Looking for new backpacking bag on a budget and have some Cabelas gift cards from Christmas. I saw the XPG Backpacker sleeping bags and wondered if anyone had any input? Any other suggestions?
Thanks,
Jed

Before you buy "new" check out "swap days" at your local hiking/camping store. Some friends and I picked up a ton of gear over the last couple of years due to people not hiking anymore. I bought a Northface Cat's meow for $25 and my buddy bought 3 off brands for his kids and father all for $30 total. Checkout ebay also. The issues I have found with cablea's is the (total carrying) weight, not the fill weight. Use the bucks on some other cool stuff like stoves, lights or other gear. Also, check out the reviews in "backpacker" magazine on all hiking gear.

My buddy has that XPG bag- you can do better.It is a bit heavy and doesn't pack very small.

Another buddy has that Cats meow- Light, good bag at a cheap price. I'm 6'3" 225 and it feels like a straight jacket to me.

Do you want down or synthetic? The Backpacking gear guides and forums will help you do the research.
Me, I have 2 bags but the one I use for backpacking is a down Montbell UL stretch bag. The stretch bags from Montbell and Sieraa designs can't be beat if you are a big guy.

Oh, and the pad is as important as your bag. I have used many inflatable pads over the years but the best is the Down Synmat

I will second and say "It's on ebay". You can get lighter.

Be careful buying used bags on ebay. There are good deals but if the bag hasn't been treated right, it may have lost a lot of loft. Too many people store them compressed.

Look at the Kelty Lightyear 20.

They should have them at cabelas.

SS