In addition to comfortable cushioning, a good camping pad should provide some insulation from the ground. With a combined 7 inches of padding, you dont have to worry about pebbles keeping you up at night. Chat with a Curated Expert. Theres no weight compromise for that bigger size, either as this is an inflatable mat, it weighs just 565g and packs down to the size of a large water bottle, making it a great three-season expedition mat. Her blog, thegirloutdoors.co.uk, champions accessible adventures. Weve used it for short hike-in camping, but wouldnt recommend it for backpacking, as it takes up considerable room in your pack. The reversible high-flow valve is simple, and deflating the pad at the end of a trip is quite simple. While this system works, its not the easiest to inflate. If you Buy It Now, you'll only be purchasing this item. This makes achieving the perfect firmness a breeze. Inflation and deflation are easy with the color-coded valves, and the stretch-top surface is pleasant to the touch. The pad is plenty long and wide yet still fits in my small tent. If youre a side sleeper, you understand the need for plenty of cushioning under your hips and shoulders. The foam will expand, and the pad will partially inflate. A high quality product. by markskor Thu May 24, 2018 11:37 am, Post We all have different needs when it comes to sleeping pads, so while there isnt a single camping pad that will suit everyone out there, weve broken them up into categories to help you find the right camp pad for you. , Although the quality of the pad itself is acceptable, the attached straps are strangely fragile and prone to breaking off at the rivet. The base incredibly easy to inflate thanks to the large pump, and we love that it can be inflated to high pressure for maximum comfort. Thank you for signing up to Advnture. We've tested the best hiking gear, packs, and footwear to outfit you for any adventure you choose. While its not ultralight by any means, it packs down fairly small for the added comfort it offers (about the size of a winter sleeping bag, or 10 x 16 inches). Thank you for supporting Sierra Madre! It is comfortable though, even for side sleepers, and the transverse chamber design is fairly stable, though it does have a slight tendency to collapse at the very edges. It has become more than just an inflatable mattress pad to sleep in the woods, it is my go to bed when I can't use my bed. Happily, the insulated pads are as silent as the non-insulated while you sleep, because the body-heat reflecting insulation is suspended inside the pad. All in all, the REI Trailbreak is a solid midprice option. The Z has a multitude of additional uses that includes but not limited to lounging and napping around camp or on the trail. It is still not a cold weather mat, rated for 3 seasons, but could be paired with a closed-cell foam mat like the Therm-a-Rest Z-lite SOL to create an all year sleep system. In addition to valves, many pads now come with inflation bags. And topping in at 3 inches thick, you wont have any problem keeping your distance from the cold, hard ground. Check Price at AmazonCheck Price at REI Is this right for me? I have since used it for backpacking, RV'ing and even at home when I needed to sleep away from others while I was sick and it has kept me comfortable every time. Add to cart to save with this special offer. I can confidently take this on any adventure! But its remarkable comfort and durability are matched only by its hefty price tag. This upgraded mat is noticeably thicker and more comfortable than the previous models. For this particular roundup, we focused specifically on pads made for car camping and similar applications. Anyone dipping their toes into camping or looking for a great deal will appreciate this sleeping pad. There is also a large version of this mat ($190/180), which is 6ft long (183cm). The 4.3 R-value means youll stay warm and could even use this camp mattress year-round (paired with the right sleeping bag). Its really just a bit of hook and loop on the pad and pillow, but it does help keep your pillow in place. But the Z-lite SOL does the best it can with what its got, thanks to a dual-density foam that is softer on top for extra comfort and denser on the bottom for extra durability. I immediately opened it up and figured put how to use the inflation pump which is super helpful. Matthew Jones A quality pad for less than 50 bucks is a darn good deal. Theyve been used and abused all across the globe and are loved by outdoor adventurers of every ilk. The horizontal core foam is designed to pack up easily and (as you can see in the above image) gives a bit of baffling to the mattress. Theres nothing fancy to it, but it serves its purpose with no major downsides. For the price, however, we simply wish there was more foam insulation. Re: Lightweight comfortable sleeping pad? Chat with a Curated Expert. If youre camping when its cold, youll want to prioritize a higher insulation (R-value) level. If you go with the MondoKing 3D, rest easy knowing youll be ultra cozy all night long, and can bank on comfort for future trips youve yet to imagine. For the easiest inflation, we recommend fully inflating your pad before your first camping trip. The most common complaint about lightweight backpacking sleeping pads is the loud, crinkly noise. But it has a competitive R-value, delivering plenty of warmth for three-season adventures. I am new to backpacking and spent the better part of three months researching sleep systems for my needs. I hate it! The R-value you need depends a bit on if you tend to be a warm or cool sleeper. Despite the slightly odd sensation compared to smoother-faced pads, which admittedly takes a little getting used to. The higher the denier, the thicker and stronger the fabric. Some brands make specific womens sizes that are contoured to better suit the female frame. Understanding your sleep preferences will help determine the best pad. Share your advice and personal experiences, post a gear review or ask any questions you may have pertaining to outdoor gear and equipment. The Tru.Comfort ($120) is a comfortable sleeping pad, but we simply wanted a bit more for the price. truly a most wonderful product. NY 10036. This mat utilizes V-shaped central baffles, while the pad has raised edges, intended to offer superior comfort and stability. The tradeoff is that these dont pack down as small and are too heavy for backpacking. We greatly appreciate it. If youre looking for an air mattress, the Hest Sleep System delivers traditional inflatable comfort along with a convenient (and cozy) sheet and comforter setup. This is the ultimate adventure mobile mattress. Of course, theres much more to warmth than a sleeping pads R-value. In sleeping pad terms, it basically indicates how warm a pad is. Life as a hiking, camping, wild-swimming adventure-writer has taken her around the world, exploring Bolivian jungles, kayaking in Greenland, diving with turtles in Australia, climbing mountains in Africa and, in Thailand, learning the hard way that peeing on a jellyfish sting doesnt help. After more than a year of testing, we found the Therm-a-Rest MondoKing topped the charts for durability, comfort, and ease of use. The rectangular profile is certainly accommodating, and the mat has a generous inflated thickness too. In addition to warmth, the open-cell foam provides a boost of comfort. The high-quality construction and materials consisting of 20-denier ripstop nylon, promises decent durability. With a 150-denier bottom, this pad has ample durability, and we didnt worry about sticks or rocks when lying down. This three-season mat has an R rating of 3.9 and should see you through most camping conditions besides the coldest winter camps. Chat with a Curated Expert. The kids inflatable is not that much added weight. During one stretch, Mother Nature pounded us with rain for 3 days straight. We did not test pads or mattresses designed to fit into a backpacking pack. At 7 inches thick and 26 pounds, the HEST Sleep System is definitely in the mattress category. You can use the foam mat around camp and not worry about campfire sparks or pine needles popping it. Though this list mostly focuses on car camping products, certain sleeping pads are portable enough to bring along on river trips and short backpacking missions. This may be a relatively thin mat, but its foam stuffing does a good job of protecting you from the ground even if you sleep on your side, and its R value of 3.6 makes the Helium work well for camping trips from spring through to fall (depending on where you are, and at what altitude and your own personal comfort levels). If you'd like to get the additional items you've selected to qualify for this offer. Check Price at REICheck Price at Amazon Is this right for me? It comes with a stuff sack and repair kit. Its also lightweight, and while the pack size is marginally bulkier than some, its still reasonably compact and will sit nicely in the bottom of a trekking pack. We packed lots of gear on top of the mattress when folded, and it showed no signs of wear. If youre looking for a versatile self-inflating sleeping pad thatll work for anything from car camping to moderate backpacking in all but the coldest seasons, the Kelty Cosmic SI is a solid choice. All the latest inspiration, tips and guides to help you plan your next Advnture! High Sierra Inflatable Camping Mat - Portable and Compact. by AlmostThere Tue May 22, 2018 10:10 am, Post Check out the blog, Get the most up to date info on new products, promos and camping tips, 2022 Sierra Designs | All Rights Reserved, Synthetic insulation for increased warmth, Easy one-way valve for hassle-free inflation, Dimensions (L x W x H): 72" x 20" x 3"/ 183 x 50.8 x 7.62 cm, Storage Bag Dimensions: 10" x 4" / 25.4 x 10.2 cm. It can be done, but we prefer the new inflation technology when tired on the trail. GearJunkie may earn a small commission from affiliate links in this article. Check Price at REI Is this right for me? The result: side, back, and stomach sleepers can all rest comfortably on a generous bed of air. Gotta love the foot massage with the zlite tho, just standing on it with naked feet at the end of the day is bliss. Then let us introduce you to Camp Dreamer XL ($179). Our primary considerations while testing were packed size, comfort, warmth, and ease of use. On test, we liked the wide insulated chest area on the womens specific mat, but the narrower bottom of the Helium may not suit those who tend to toss and turn in the night (theyll get on better with a mat that is wider overall). And we like the way it completely opens up for a faster deflation. Though if availability is an issue, this pad will certainly suffice.1x|. Theres room to spread out, all the warmth you could need, and tons of foam padding. From an ultra-cushioned double sleeping pad to our top pick for budget savings, these are the best car camping mattresses and pads. Its not as insulated as some other pads on the list, but for the price, this air bed cant be beat. We found the top car camping and family camping tents for every budget and use. Trek, bike, and paddle with GearJunkie and USARA this season as we explore and compete in wilderness events around America. In addition, we were impressed by the mats real-world warmth, which corresponds with its R-value of 4.4. The design and construction of the mat will affect its comfort levels. Secondarily, we looked at durability and value. Do you sleep on your back, side, or stomach? All offers are limited to stock on hand; no backorders or rainchecks are available. The rectangular Synmat has proven itself to be warm and comfortable many times on test in most seasons, and because its generous size it is ideal for taller campers and anyone who tends to toss and turn at night. I was blown away with the quality of the material and construction, how warm it was and the size fit. Consumer must pay applicable sales tax. The exclusive V-Chamber design conforms to the shape of your body while maintaining ample, lofted air pockets. The Puffle came in very handy too. To inflate, simply unroll, open the valves, sit back, and relax. The Big Agnes Pumphouse Ultra ($35) is sold separately and works as both a dry bag and an inflation bag. The Z Lite is therefore supremely versatile as well as being very lightweight, if slightly bulky. It's 2-season rated, so not suitable for use during the colder months. Some camping mattresses pop up in the middle when filled, but thanks to the 3D construction, this bad boy stays flat even when fully inflated and being slept on. You will receive a verification email shortly. I was able to test it out recently along with some other new gear and I was impressed how it never came out from under me, it stayed fully inflated all night, it was nice and warm with no extra insulation under me (besides my sleeping bag), and I was completely elevated off the ground at all times. SMR is know for their hammocks (at least from the reviews I have seen) but I highly recommend this pad to backpackers looking for a warm (rated R-value 5.0) reliable pad that wont take up much space, especially those ready to drop big money on backcountry or REI Co-Op for a Thermarest or Nemo pad. Not much weight penalty with the air pad and if it fails, the Z is the backup. Your source for comprehensive hunting reviews and buying guides. For summer, something in the 2 to 4 range should work for warmer nights. And if youre just testing it out or on a tighter budget, go with something like the sub-$50 Kelty Mistral. Read on for the most important factors in choosing a camping pad. To more adventure in the wild using your Air Pad XL! The 1.75-inch thickness is enough to keep you padded, but its not nearly as comfortable as other mattresses on this list. The GearJunkie gear guide to mountain, road, and gravel bikes, bike accessories, apparel, and more. Our Partnerships with Nonprofits, Tips for your next adventure Sian Lewis The Hest Dually ($549) is an incredibly comfortable mattress that sleeps two and folds in half for travel. Glad you are well, Stephen. Its also available as a single. Admittedly, at about an inch thick, its not quite as plush as some air mats, and therefore better suits those who tend to sleep on their backs rather than their sides. The Static V is the worlds first lightweight, packable air pad that incorporates body-mapping chambers for ultimate comfort. This pad has a lot to offer. This air bed has proven durable over several months of use, even withstanding being placed directly on the ground. Promotions have no cash value. by mrphil Tue May 22, 2018 11:42 am, Post And if price and space are not a concern, go with something in the range of 4+ inches. Or do you camp a lot in the winter? As a result, you dont have to be so careful with campsite selection, and if your options are very limited like a climbers bivvy, for example its one of the few genuinely practical mats available, and one thatll still prove more comfortable than lying on bare rock. As you can imagine, theres often a tradeoff between durability and weight. You are $11 away from getting free shipping. The bottoms of the tents were soaked. Pack sizes and volumes also vary widely, but ideally a three-season mat should have a packed volume of no more than two liters. with this amazing air pad i have comfort whether I'm in my hammock or roughing it on the ground, the air pad provides most ample support and warmth. It has separate inflation and deflation valves, which dont protrude from the mat, and the GripSkin honeycomb-pattern coating offers good next-to-skin comfort, while helping to keep you from sliding around too much in the night. With an R-value of 2.0, it works well for 2-season camps. Sharing in-depth conversations between the world's adventurers, athletes, and outdoorspeople, The GearJunkie Podcast is your inside look into the outdoors industry. Read through our favorite expert-compiled gear for thru-hiking, backpacking, ultralight backpacking and more. Designed and constructed for women backpackers and outdoor adventurers, this mat is wider at the hip and narrower at the shoulder to match the female body shape, and theres a tighter pattern of air pockets around the torso to further trap in heat. Its a real jack of all trades and master of none. As with all self-inflating pads, expect to top it off after heavy use. just like everything else Sierra Madre Research Offers. Unless otherwise specified, product prices already reflect discounts. For the casual camper, its hard to beat $60 for a two-in-one camping sleeping pad and pillow. Traditional air mattresses are thin and more susceptible to tears, but with the foam construction and a 75-denier polyester bottom, the Roamer is truly built to withstand camping outside. This depends entirely on your individual comfort level. I am a belly-side sleeper. Thank you for supporting Sierra Madre! - eBay Money Back Guarantee - opens in a new window or tab, - for PayPal Credit, opens in a new window or tab, Learn more about earning points with eBay Mastercard, - eBay Return policy - opens in a new tab or window, - eBay Money Back Guarantee - opens in a new tab or window. , The difference between a sleeping pad and an air mattress is a gray area. Lets start with the obvious this pad is heavy. The female version of Mountain Equipments Helium is a hard-working foam mat that weighs in at a relatively svelte 670g/23.6oz not the lightest mat weve tested, but is still easy enough to take away on backpacking forays or wild camping trips. In some cases they are also slightly warmer, with a higher R-value (as women typically sleep colder than men). At 4.75 inches thick, it provides plenty of cushioning and enough clearance to keep side sleepers off the ground all night long. Highlighted by Outside Magazine as one of the best gear upgrades you can make, this inflatable sleeping pad shares the same construction as the Shadow Mountain but adds a layer of synthetic insulation for extra warmth and cushioning on cold-weather camping trips. Weve used this pad directly on the ground and in tents without a ground cloth, and it shows no signs of wear. Taller trekkers should consider mats that offer large and/or wide sizes. If you want something that rivals the comfort of the Exped MegaMat but clocks in for a few dollars less, this is the pad for you. View cart for details. Of all the gear I own, sleeping pads have always given me the most grief. https://www.montbell.us/products/disp.php?p_id=1124671. It cradles your body for sleeping while providing effective insulation against the cold truck bed below you. The bottom and sides of the Dually mattress use heathered nylon woven with a polyurethane backing for durability. What it lacks in packed size and affordability, it more than makes up for in size and comfort. Advnture is part of Future US Inc, an international media group and leading digital publisher. One of our favorite things about this pad is how level it is. Reach Out Similarly, petite users or ultralight campers can choose mats that come in a small or a three-quarter size. For more sleeping pads designed specifically for women, check out our guide to the best women's sleeping pads. For a better nights sleep, youll want to consider a thicker sleeping pad. {"modules":["unloadOptimization","bandwidthDetection"],"unloadOptimization":{"browsers":{"Firefox":true,"Chrome":true}},"bandwidthDetection":{"url":"https://ir.ebaystatic.com/cr/v/c1/thirtysevens.jpg","maxViews":4,"imgSize":37,"expiry":300000,"timeout":250}}, Recent sales price provided by the seller. And are you spending a lot of time outside or just getting started with a night or two camped out? Luckily, many pads now use flat valves with dedicated inflation and deflation settings. Something went wrong. As a result this mat is not quite as warm as some others, reflecting its intended use for warm-weather trips. We reviewed the Medium Wide version of the mat, which has dimensions that offer more room if youre a restless sleeper and tend to find yourself falling off smaller designs in the night. The reliable brass valve is easy to operate and shouldnt leak air or come unscrewed at 2am, and its quick to inflate, requiring only a few puffs. It means the world to us. If you dont particularly care about using the straps, this is a good budget pick. Its a genuine all-season pad that is priced far more attractively than premium options from rival brands. If youre looking for a double camp pad thats more easily maneuverable for car camping, check outthe Hest Dually. Therm-a-Rest originated the concept of the self-inflating camping mattress, way back in the early 1970s. The original V-Chambered air pad that changed the way people Sleep Outside. Lets start with the positives. And we liked how the one-way valves make quick work of deflating the pad fully when its time to pack up camp. In general, the thicker the pad, the more comfortable it is. Youll also need to blow up the attached pillow to your desired firmness. Most camping sleeping pads come in regular and long versions. Its touted as a camping/backpacking crossover, but honestly, it seems too bulky for backpacking. Offer cannot be sold or otherwise bartered. Financing, Shipping & Taxes calculated nexts, translation missing: en.general.payment.method. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Although its not quite as plush as a thicker pad like the MondoKing, its incredibly comfortable. I slept warm on it during a 34 degree F camp out. In general, youll want a sleeping pad with a value greater than 5 for comfortable winter camping. Its a little different with a self-inflating or air mat, however, and ease of use often depends on the valve design. If youre mainly car camping, you can maximize comfort by going with a more padded, inflatable option like theNEMO Roamer or a deluxe air mattress like the Hest Sleep System. One of our only complaints is that it is hard to pick which shape and size to get, because there are so many options, but all versions of the mat are 3 inches thick and structured with Spaceframe baffles, which are both stable and which distribute your weight evenly. However, if youre a dedicated ultralighter the sort of adventurer who likes to head to the hills for a stealthy overnighter with nothing more than a daypack on your back this is the mat for you. While packing less is great, sleeping on a pad as noisy as a potato chip bag is less than ideal. Regular price If youre looking for a backpacking pad, check out our favorite products here. The open-cell polyurethane foam insulates and cushions. The mat has a great burrito-style stuff sack that makes it really easy to pack and unpack. But the microadjust valve makes it easy to add air without worrying about losing any. The higher the R-value, the warmer and more insulating the sleeping pad will be. In terms of a sleeping pad, this means you can get something more comfortable. Offers only apply to the United States unless otherwise noted. Discount codes are not valid on prior purchases, cannot be used after their expiration dates, and do not apply to taxes, shipping and processing charges. We had some minor worries about the valve design though it works well, the tight fit means it requires a fair amount of pressure to pull it open, which seems to place a lot of stress on the surrounding fabric. Free shipping offer is valid in the US lower 48 states only, and is not available for PO Boxes or Military APO/FPO addresses. Four-season mats with a higher R-value will typically be heavier, while ultralight mats (some of which arent insulated at all) can cut that figure in half. This small addition compared to other sleeping pads is instantly noticeable. Apart from adding comfort and space, these impressive sidewalls also help keep you dry in really bad weather. The Mistral SI ($45) is an incredible value. Love this review! , Void where prohibited, taxed or otherwise restricted. The Camp Plus SI also scored top marks for durability.