Patrik Orcutt 08.07.25
As a soldier navigating the demands of the Army’s Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape (SERE) course, I’ve learned that the right gear can make or break you in the field. When I was preparing for SERE, I needed a sleeping bag that could handle the unpredictable weather of Alabama in the winter and would pack down small, and keep me comfortable. The Snugpak Tactical 2 Sleeping Bag, with its versatility and rugged design, became my go-to choice. After putting it through the wringer during SERE and beyond, I’m thrilled to share why this bag is a standout for military training and outdoor survival.
Camping Gear Coverage on AllOutdoor
The Snugpak Tactical 2 Sleeping Bag was provided by Snugpak for this review and while I am allowed to keep this item indefinitely, this does not change my opinion on this or any future Snugpak Products. The Tactical 2 was used at SERE and has been on a few outings for car camping and normal camping.
SPECS
- Temp Range (Comfort / Low ) – 32°F / 23°F (0°C / -5°C)
- Weight – 39oz (1100g)
- Dimensions – 87 x 30in (220 x 75cm)
- Pack Size – 7 x 7in (18 x 17cm)
- Coutry of Origin – UK
- MSRP – $319
Who is Snugpak ?
Snugpak, is a British company founded in 1977 by Brett Harris, and began as a cottage industry in the Yorkshire countryside and has grown into an internationally recognized brand known for high-quality outdoor gear. Inspired by the lack of lightweight, affordable sleeping bags and clothing, Harris taught himself to sew and developed innovative designs, starting with body warmers he noticed while working on oil rigs. The company’s breakthrough came with the Softie® insulated sleeping bag range in the 1980s, which revolutionized the market with its low weight and compact design, gaining traction in both outdoor and military sectors. Over the decades, Snugpak expanded its product line to include insulated clothing, tents, and accessories, earning accolades such as the Queen’s Award for Enterprise and the Millennium Product Award for a synthetic fill diving suit. Based in a historic mill in Silsden, West Yorkshire, Snugpak continues to blend traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology, maintaining long-standing contracts with defense agencies and serving adventurers worldwide.
First Impressions and Build Quality
Right out of the box, the Snugpak Tactical 2 impressed me with its robust construction. Made in the UK, it boasts a Paratex Steelplate outer shell, a water-resistant coating that feels tough yet lightweight. The TS1™ (Thermal Suede) lining and Reflectatherm fabric inside promised to trap heat and wick moisture, which was critical for the damp, chilly nights I’d face in SERE. At 3.7 pounds and packing down to the size of a football in its compression sack, it was compact enough to fit in my ruck alongside survival gear, rations, and evasion tools. The mummy-style design, with a snug hood and zip baffle, looked ready to keep me warm in the 32°F to 23°F temperature range, Snugpak claims.
You can tell that there is a lot of attention to detail on this bag with its two-way anti-snag zipper, reinforced with thick webbing, gliding smoothly, and the hanging dry tabs were a nice touch for airing it out after a wet night. The pillow pocket at the head was a bonus, letting me stuff a jacket or Snuggy pillow for extra comfort. As someone who’s seen gear fail under stress, I appreciated the durable stitching and YKK zippers—hallmarks of Snugpak’s reputation for military-grade quality.
SERE Course: Survival in the Wilderness
The SERE course is no walk in the park. Dropped into a wilderness environment with minimal gear, you’re tasked with surviving, evading capture, and navigating terrain. My group was in a forested area with temperatures dipping into the low 30s at night, often with the threat of rain lurking. The Tactical 2 was a lifesaver during the survival phase, where building a shelter and staying warm were critical. I set up a lean-to with a tarp, and the bag’s Paratex shell repelled moisture from the damp ground and light rain, keeping my core dry. The Reflectatherm fabric lived up to its promise, reflecting my body heat and keeping me cozy. I often found that the bag was much warmer than I needed it to be while wearing a few layers.
Evasion: Lightweight and Packable
During the evasion phase, where we practiced being as stealthy as possible, the Tactical 2’s compact size was a godsend. SERE teaches you to travel light and leave no trace, and the bag’s compressed size—about 10 x 8 inches—fit easily in my ruck without adding bulk. At 3.7 pounds, it wasn’t the lightest option I had on hand, but its warmth-to-weight ratio was perfect for the conditions. I could move quickly through dense brush, knowing my sleep system wouldn’t slow me down or give away my position. The olive green color blended seamlessly with my surroundings.
Comfort and Versatility
Beyond SERE, I’ve used the Tactical 2 for weekend camping and ruck training. The TS1 lining feels soft against the skin, and I’ve slept comfortably without base layers. The bag’s generous dimensions gave me enough wiggle room to avoid feeling claustrophobic, unlike some mummy bags. However, I’m 5’9”, and taller users might want the extra-long variant. The 32°F to 23°F rating felt optimistic at times. At 32°F, I did not need a base layer or a bivy for extra warmth, but I’m also a very warm sleeper, so your mileage may vary. Still, for three-season use—spring, summer, and fall—it’s hard to beat. Its synthetic insulation outperforms down in wet conditions, a must for SERE’s damp environments.
A Few Drawbacks
No gear is perfect. The Tactical 2’s 3.7-pound weight is reasonable but heavier than ultralight options like the Snugpak Special Forces 1 (2.3 pounds). The compression sack, while durable, can be tricky to stuff tightly without practice. Lastly, the $319 price tag is steep, though justified by its military-grade quality and performance. For budget-conscious users, it might feel like a splurge, but it’s a worthwhile investment for serious outdoor or tactical use.
Final Thoughts
The Snugpak Tactical 2 Sleeping Bag proved its worth during the Army’s SERE course, delivering warmth, durability, and packability. Its water-resistant Paratex shell and quick-drying Softie insulation kept me dry and warm in wet, cold conditions, while its compact size and rugged construction made it ideal for long-term use. The TS1 lining and Reflectatherm fabric added comfort and heat retention, helping me rest on stressful nights. From muddy trudges to quick bivouacs, this bag was and continues to be a reliable piece of gear. Whether you’re a soldier prepping for SERE, a survivalist, or an outdoor enthusiast, the Tactical 2 is a powerhouse that won’t let you down.
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