Need suggestions for alternative sleeping system

[Tarrel]

I don't think you'll beat a lightweight down sleeping bag for the best compromise between warmth and travel weight/bulk. Trouble with quilts is they don't trap air as effectively as a bag, unless you have a large, heavy one which will drape over you.

The benefit of the Scottish plaid is that, although heavy, it was a multi-purpose item; clothing, bedding, even a carry-sling. Among the ultra-light hiking community there is an ethos of multiple use as a way of saving weight. E.g.:
- Why carry a down jacket and a heavy sleeping bag when you can wear the jacket inside a lighter bag?
- Why carry a plate/bowl and a cooking pot, when you can eat out of the pot?
- Use your sleeping mat as a frame in your rucksack
etc.

Thinking outside the box (or bag!), if you're looking for a bug-out solution post-SHTF, in which you may have to backpack for several days, you could travel at night and lay up during the day. Less cold for sleeping and better security for travelling, plus you're keeping warm and exercised during the coldest time.