| Down is better in the long run for backpacking, because weight, compressibility, and longevity are important. For car camping they really don't matter so synthetic wins out for price and dealing with getting wet (although that shouldn't be a big deal).
If you are sleeping in your car then a good quality synthetic, possibly a rectangular bag which will be more comfortable but slightly less warm would be my choice. Left vs right zip only matters if you plan on zipping together to a second bag; otherwise it doesn't matter at all.
For summer use the brand doesn't matter as much. For a real cold weather bag I'd look for a brand that isn't a real low price special. Keep an eye on REI Outlet and Sierra Trading Post for deals. |