Decisions, decisions...

I never knew that choosing a sleeping bag could be so complicated until I started preparing for this trek! When we are down on the plain and visiting the Vision Africa projects the temperature at night will be quite high, but when we get up the top of Mount Kenya it will be seriously sub-zero. So, what kind of sleeping bag should I get?

Lots of research was called for, scouring the internet for advice. Well, after much deliberation it seems I need a 4 season bag rated down to at least -10c comfort rating. But, it's not that simple - should I get a synthetic bag, or a down filled bag? Back to the internet again... Concensus seems to be that a down bag is best because it's smaller and lighter - an important factor when you have a 15kg limit on your main rucksack.

That's it then, a four season down filled sleeping bag. Time to search the internet for a good deal... What! have you seen those prices! £200 for a good bag seems typical - I was thinking more like £50! Wow. But there's more - aparently it can rain or snow quite suddenly on the mountain and a bag with a waterproof outer shell and stuff-bag is recommended (or so the internet tells me!) Well, let's just add another £50 to the price shall we!

Carole, my wife, chips in and says I may as well give the money to the charity and stay at home! I know what she means, but in for a penny... Well, I finally take the plunge and decide on a bag. The good news is a quick call to my local outdoor specialist and they lop £35 of the price for me. Some small comfort I guess - it just better be a really comfy bag because I'll be seriously upset if I'm cold on the mountain!

I can feel an eBay ad in the offing when I get back from the trek - anyone want a second hand 4 season, 93/7 700+ fill down filled, water-resistant, -12c comfort rated, all singing, all dancing sleeping bag complete with waterproof stuff sack?