A big hearty thanks to Snow Dog and Kingfisher for pointing me in the right direction on a sleep system I probably would of never even known existed.

I went for the Big Agnes "Fish hawk" bag (30 degree) and insulated mat. A few things struck me right off the bat. As per S_D's comments you can roll around all you want and everything stays in place. This is especially important with a bag that is so light. I can also now understand how S_D could get the 15 degree bag and not feel overheated. I'm so glad I didn't get the 40 degree bag. For $20 more the 30 degree bag has much more in the way of features.........fold away hood, draft chest collar etc.

While I liked the self inflating aspect of the therm-a-rest I'm certainly not going to miss the 4lb chunky bundle. That is going to be super to leave that at home and to be honest I didn't really notice any difference in comfort levels. The Big Agnes mat is at least 1/3 the size and likely only a 1/4 of the therm. I got the insulated mat partly because I think the addition of the exterior insulation would help to make it less prone to puncture both when in use and in the storing process. I also like the versatility of the insulation being one-sided so you have the option of using its insulating properties in accordance with conditions.

I'm tickled about the whole set-up (Tickled....see/ southern slang words....meaning mighty pleased). If I ever meet S_D or KF on a portage I will be glad to take a load across  [smiley=thumbup.gif]