This guide features reviews of our top picks for the best sleeping pads. It also includes a handy buyer’s guide that highlights the key factors that you should take into consideration when you’re shopping for a sleeping pad.
We round up the guide by answering some of the most frequently asked questions about sleeping pads. With the information presented in this guide, you should be able to find a sleeping pad that will meet your unique needs and allow you to enjoy the rest that is so vital for a successful backpacking excursion and break from reality.
Our Top Picks
Contents
We know that some of you who are reading this don’t have the time to read through all of the information that will be presented in this guide. That’s why we put together this section, which highlights our top three picks for the best overall, best premium, and best budget sleeping pads.
- Best Pick: DEHUMI Camping Air Sleeping Pad Mat
A sleeping pad should provide cushioning and insulation, but it should also be lightweight, durable, easy to use, and reliable. The DEHUMI Camping Air Sleeping Pat Mat definitely ticks off all of those boxes, which is why we chose it as our pick for the best overall sleeping pad. Standing at 2.7 inches tall when inflated and made of super durable materials, this pad does an excellent job of providing a soft, warm surface to sleep on. - Premium Pick: INVOKER UltraThick FlexFoam Sleeping Pad
For shoppers who are have a little extra room in their budget and want to go all out on a sleeping pad, the INVOKER UltraThick FlexFoam Sleeping pad is the option that we’d recommend. This self-inflating pad is three inches thick when inflated, so you won’t feel any pebbles, roots, twigs, or anything else digging into your back on the ground beneath you. - Budget Pick: MEETPEAK Camping Sleeping Pad
If you’re looking for a high-quality, reliable, comfortable, and easy to transport sleeping pad that won’t break the bank, this option from MEETPEAK is a great choice. Featuring patented air support technology, the air cells in this sleeping pad comfort of the body and disperse pressure for exception comfort and support.
Sleeping Pad Reviews
Now that we’ve shared a brief overview of our top picks for the best overall, best premium, and best budget sleeping pads, let’s take a more in-depth look at each one, as well as some additional models that you might want to consider. In this section of our guide, we provide a more thorough overview of the three models mentioned above so you can get a better idea of what they offer. We also highlight a few additional models that are also durably constructed, comfortable, and easy to use, to present you with a well-rounded list of options to choose.
DEHUMI Camping Air Sleeping Pad Mat
We chose the DEHUMI Camping Air Sleeping Pad Mat as our pick for the best overall sleeping pad because it’s so well-made, easy to use, durable, lightweight; and of course, it’s comfortable.
Made of heavy-duty rip stop, puncture-resistant, and waterproof 0.14mm extra thick non-toxic 40D nylon, this sleeping pad can stand up to all types of conditions and will always provide a reliable sleeping surface. The self-inflating design means that you don’t have to use an air pump or your own breath; just push the built-in pump and you’ll have a fully inflated sleeping surface in just 25 seconds.
- 【Stamp to Inflate, Only 25s Needed】 No more inflating with your hands, mouth, or a pump. Stamp the spot of the built-in pump with your foot a few times until you fill it up, which takes 25s only! With anti-leakage films in the valves, you shall never worry about air leaking! Also, super quick to deflate - take out the deflation plug.
- 【Compact, Lightweight & Portable】 Give you a lighter sleeping mat without compromising any comfort. Just pack it down to the size of a water bottle, taking less space in your backpack. With attached pillow also saves you the trouble of carrying an extra pillow. Perfect for outdoor activities like camping, hiking, backpacking. A camping gear must haves luxury!
- 【Heavy Duty Ripstop, Puncture-Resistant & Waterproof】0.14mm extra thick 40D nylon comes with puncture resistance, water resistance, and tear resistance, which is born for all kinds of harsh outdoor environments. Sleep tight even when you're lying on the rugged ground.
- 【Unique Design, Sleep Better】The DEHUMI sleeping pad is 2.7'' tall once inflated, insulating from the cold ground and hard rocks. Innovative rhombus and sided square air cell design distribute the pressure evenly, ensuring your body balance and superior comfort for your sleep all night long, regardless of your sleeping position! A camping accessories designed to solve the "bad sleep" problem!
- 【Get Two for a Double Bed! & Lifetime Warranty】 With buttons on its side, you can easily attach one to another sleeping pad and make it a double bed! If you have any questions, please let us know. DEHUMI promises to provide you with a full refund/replacement warranty - no questions asked! Just try it, and you won't regret a thing!
You’ll never have to worry about waking up on the cold, hard ground, thanks to the anti-leakage films in the valves and reinforced seams. When it’s time to pack it up, just remove the deflation plug to allow the air to escape, roll it up, and stow it in the included carry case. It folds down to the size of a water bottle and is so lightweight, so storing it and toting it is a breeze.
With a 660 pound weight capacity, this sleeping pad can support backpackers of all shapes and sizes. To round out the comfort features, the FreTree Camping Air Sleeping Pad Mat is self-insulating and features a built-in pillow for optimal support. Oh, it’s also available in three colors: royal blue, navy, and green.
- Made of 40D nylon
- Waterproof, abrasion proof, and tear-resistant
- Self-inflating and self-insulating
- Provides exceptional comfort and reliable warmth
- Anti-leakage films and reinforced seams prevent air loss
- Built-in pillow provides increased support and comfort
- Folds down to a compact size and is super lightweight
- Easy to inflate and deflate
- Affordably priced
- Built-in buttons along the sides allow additional pads to be attached for a larger sleeping surface
- Economically priced
INVOKER Ultra Thick FlexFoam Sleeping Pad
For backpackers who want the ultimate in comfort and don’t mind spending a bit more, the INVOKER Ultra Thick FlexFoam Sleeping Pad is a great choice.
Made of laminated 20D rip-stop nylon and featuring a TUP layer, this sleeping pad is water proof, tear resistant, and abrasion proof, yet is also soft and comfortable, so there’s no need to worry about sweat buildup or squeaky sounds.
- Features a comfortable, flat design and memory foam material for a relaxing bed that travels anywhere
- Inflates in 25 seconds using advanced self-inflating technology, setting up the mat without any inconvenient blowing or pumping
- Retains warmth and offers a small amount of breathing to warm you in the winter and cool you in the summer, letting you enjoy the pad in every season
- Constructed from durable, tear-resisting fabric and 2.76-inch thick Flex Foam, providing a soft mattress even on stones and branches; Dimensions (L x W x H): 77.56 x 29.92 x 2.76 inches
- Folds into the compact carry bag that measures 28 inches long and 7 inches in diameter for convenient transportation
The material is self-insulating and the pad is self-inflating and stands at 3 inches tall when blown up, giving you a comfortable and warm surface to sleep on. The built-in elevated headrest further enhances the comfort this sleeping pad provides. When you’re ready to pack up your campsite, deflating the pad and stowing it away is a cinch; since it’s so lightweight and compact, carrying it in your pack won’t be an issue.
With a no-risk purchase guarantee, you can have peace of mind when you choose the Wellax UltraThick FlexFoam Sleeping Pad.
- Made of laminated 20D rip-stop nylon and features a TPU layer
- Waterproof, abrasion and tear-resistant
- Self-inflating technology for easy set up
- Quickly deflates and folds into a compact size for convenient transport
- Reflects radiant heat back into your body for reliable warmth
- Stands at three inches thick when inflated
- Built-in elevated head rest
- Backed by a no-risk purchase guarantee
MEETPEAK Camping Sleeping Pad
For our best budget pick sleeping pad, we chose the MEETPEAK Camping Sleeping Pad. Made of 40D nylon and featuring a TPU layer, this sleeping pad provides great cushioning and insulation.
The patented MEETPEAK air support cells conform to the shape of the body to disperse pressure, so you won’t wake up with cricks in your back, and the built-in pillow elevates the head and prevents neck pain. Outfitted with a double-deck valve, it takes just 15 to 20 breaths to inflate it, and when you’re ready to move onto your next location, just release the deflate valve, roll it up, and stow it in the included storage bag.
- 【Extra Wide & 3.2 - 4" Thick Sleep Support with Pillow】- Our creative V shape design with pillow is made special with body mapping technology. The V shape air cells ergonomically support all of your pressure points, no matter lying flat or on side, 3.2 - 4 inch thickness & 27.6 inch width keep you body away from the ground and insulating the coldness, ensuring maximum comfort and warm for your sleep all night long. Let's enjoy a good sleep with pillow when outside!
- 【Only 30s Stomp to Inflate & 1s Deflate】- 2021 upgraded foot press sleeping pad, NO MORE inflating by your mouth, hands or carry a pump, just simply stomp on intake device at the bottom of the sleeping pad for only 30 seconds to inflate. Look, prefect camping mat, start your adventure. The newest single-layer air release valve design, just open the deflation plug, only need 1sec achieve super quick to deflate.
- 【Heavy Duty Ripstop Nylon Fabric】- Built for a lifetime of adventures, the sleeping pad made of extra thick 40d nylon provides a unique balance between low weight & durability, also our best companion for long camping travel. Camping pad is thermoform sealing and TPU coating make the camping mat performance better in severe conditions. You can say goodbye to sore backs and other discomforts normally left by bumps and rocks underneath the floor of your tent!
- 【Super Lightweight & Compact Easy to Carry】- The camping pad was designed with you in mind, for all of your needs. The ultralight sleeping mat weighs only 1.76lb, can be folded up to a compact packs as small as 11.81x5.51 in, even you don’t need to bring an extra pillow when go camping! Being the same size and weight as a small water bottle, just right fits into a backpack or suitcase, which is strongest camping gear. This outdoor item cover a sleeping pad, carry bag & 2 repair kits.
- 【Enjoy Double Bed & Quality Assurance】- Our Camping Pad is equipped with snap fasteners on the sides, with which you can connect two sleeping pad together easily, thus creating a double bed. Just try it, you will get the new joy of camping. This sleeping pad is 2021 the newest and unique style, we are confident that youe will love our backpacking sleeping mat. If you are unhappy with our sleeping pad, PLEASE reach out to us directly and we will do our best for you.
When deflated and folded up, this sleeping pad is no bigger than the size of a water bottle, and it’s even lighter than one.
The material is waterproof, as well as abrasion and tear resistant, so you know that it’s built to last and can take on all types of conditions. As our best budget pick sleeping pad, it’s also affordably priced.
- Made of 40D nylon material and features a TPU layer
- Patented air support cells conform to the shape of the body and disperse pressure
- Self-insulating for warmth
- Built-in pillow elevates the head
- Double-deck valve for fast inflation
- Quickly deflates
- Folds up to the size and weight of a water bottle
- Comes with a carrying case
- Affordably priced
Sleepingo Camping Sleeping Pad
Next up on our list of the best sleeping pads is this option from Sleepingo. This two inch thick sleeping pad is ergonomically designed and evenly distributes weight and provides excellent insulation properties, so you’ll be able to enjoy a comfortable night of sleep.
Made of high-grade rip stop nylon material with a 20 denier thickness, this sleeping pad is waterproof, tear and abrasion resistant, so it’s built tough and can take on all types of conditions with ease.
- 2" THICK SLEEP SUPPORT - Want to sleep comfortably anywhere? Then you will love this backpacking sleeping pad! No need to suffer with a cheap, flimsy, and undersized outdoor sleeping pad! This quality portable camping pad is perfect; super sturdy and extremely comfortable - great for any sleep position!
- LIGHT & PORTABLE - Weighs only 14oz and packs down to the size of a thin water bottle, these are the perfect sleeping pads to accompany you on your next backpacking trip! These ultra-light and super-portable sleeping pads will fit in any backpack and won’t cause backaches from its weight. You’ll wish you found this years ago. Very convenient to carry and comes with a sleek storage pouch.
- TEAR-RESISTANT WITH HEAVY-DUTY RIPSTOP NYLON FABRIC - These lightweight sleeping pads are made of super strong, waterproof, camping-grade ripstop nylon fabric. With 20 denier thickness, these sleeping pads are designed to last a lifetime in the most severe conditions.
- SIZE - Able to accompany you on any type of adventure, these camping mattress pads inflate to an impressive size of 74" X 22" and will give you the comfort you need.
When it’s not in use, the Sleepingo sleeping pad packs down to the size of a thin water bottle and weights just 14.5 ounces, so it definitely won’t add any bulk or extra weight to carry around.
Backed by a lifetime replacement guarantee, if for any reason, you are unhappy with your purchase, the manufacturer will refund your money with no questions asked, and you don’t even have to return the sleeping pad.
- Made of 20D rip stop nylon material
- Waterproof, tear and puncture resistant
- Evenly distributes weight
- Provides reliable insulation
- Easy to set up
- Folds down to the size of a thin water bottle
- Affordably priced
- Backed by a lifetime money back guarantee
Powerlix Sleeping Pad
The Powerlix sleeping pad features a hexagon design that is made with advanced body mapping technology. The air cells offer ergonomic support to evenly disperse pressure and prevent aches and pains.
The dual action, non-leak air valve makes inflating and deflating the pad a cinch and because it’s so lightweight and compact when it’s folded up, you’ll hardly notice you’re toting it around.
- REJUVENATE YOUR BODY: Powerlix camping pad has revolutionary hexagon design made with body mapping technology. The hexagon air cells ergonomically support all of your pressure points, giving you superior support and comfort all night long, no matter how you sleep! The sleeping mat is also a camping gear must haves luxury, being comfortable yet lightweight. It rolls up small, making it effortless to carry around. The cot comes in a variety of color choices, sure to match anyone's personality.
- LIVE YOUR LIFE TO THE FULLEST: It's time to plan a trip! Our camping sleeping pads cannot be easier to inflate than with our inflating bag. It has a dual action, non-leak air valve to inflate and deflate the mattress. First store air in the bag and push it in like a pump. Light & small when packed, it won't cause backaches from its weight and fits easily in your backpack. Being insulated, it's perfect for the best night of sleep during adventure, hiking, camping, backpacking, in any weather!
- UNIQUE LONGLASTING DURABILITY: It's the mat of all mats! The self inflating sleeping pad is made of durable, outdoor grade materials. It includes thermal insulation, to keep your body warm from the cold winter ground. Our camping sleeping mat is 100% waterproof, making it perfect for any outdoor activities. You can say goodbye to sore backs and other discomforts normally left by bumps and rocks underneath the floor of your tent!
- EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR OUTDOORS: This exclusive camping sleeping pad also comes with storage bag, 2 repair kits, and a multipurpose inflating bag. A patch kit is also included, stitched into the top of the storage bag. The inflating bag was designed with you in mind, for all of your needs. In addition to inflating the mattress, this backpacking sleeping pad can be used for several different things, such as a pillow, a waterproof laundry bag, or a large waterproof airtight storage bag!
- AFTER SERVICE WARRANTY: PowerLix guarantees to have your back! Our US-based customer service means that you can trust that if you’re not satisfied for any reason, you can get a hassle-free refund or replacement. Don't hesitant to reach out if you have any questions. We want you to be nothing but happy with your new, top of the line, camping bed! We are confident of our camping pads for sleeping and know you will like it. That's why your purchase comes backed with our incredible warranty.
Made of 75D nylon material, complete with thermal insulation, the Powerlix sleeping pad will ensure you are comfortable and warm all night long. It comes complete with two repair kits, and inflation bag, and a carrying case, and is available in several two color designs, including orange and black, blue and black camo and black, and green and black.
With a 100 percent lifetime warranty, if anything goes wrong or you’re unsatisfied for any reason, you can receive a replacement sleeping pad or a full refund.
- Made of 75D rip stop nylon
- Offers thermal insulation for warm
- Features a hexagon design with advanced body mapping technology for ergonomic support and comfort
- Available in multiple colors
- Durably constructed; waterproof, tear proof, and abrasion proof
- Easy to inflate and deflate
- Packs down to a super-thin and super-lightweight size for easy transport
- Comes with a carrying case, inflation bag, and repair kits
- Backed by a 100% lifetime warranty
- Affordably priced
Nemo Tensor Ultralight Sleeping Pad
Said to be “the backpacker’s best friend”, the Nemo sleeping pad is the most technical pad the manufacturer makes (they make several different models).
Offering three inches of cushioned support and Thermal Mirror insulation (note: for the insulated model only), this sleeping pad offers exceptional comfort and warmth. Made with premium-quality materials, this pad is not only durably constructed, but it also offers a high-end feel.
- 3 inches of stable, cushioned loft
- New, included Vortex pump sack provides easy and fast inflation, saves breath at elevation, and minimizes moisture entering the pad
- Spaceframe baffles offer unparalleled stability and weight distribution
- Insulated models leverage 2 layers of suspended Thermal Mirror metalized film for lighter and quieter insulation compared to the competition
The Spaceframe baffles provide excellent stability and perfect distribute weight. The Thermal Mirror film is rated 10 to 20F, while the non-insulated model is rated 35 to 45F. With an included Vortex pump sack, it inflates fast and reduces the amount of moisture that enters into the pad.
A Laylow micro-adjustable valve allows you to control inflation. The Nemo Tensor Sleeping pad is backed by a lifetime warranty, too on manufacturer defects.
- Made of premium-quality materials for exceptional durability
- Spaceframe baffles provide outstanding stability and weight distribution
- Insulated model features two layers of suspended Thermal Mirror film for a 10 to 20F rated insulation, while the non-insulated models have a 34 to 40F rating
- Comes with a Vortex pump sack for rapid inflation and reduced moisture introduction
- Laylow micro-adjustable valve provides full control over inflation
- Backed by a lifetime warranty
Ubon Double Self-Inflating Sleeping Pad
Rounding out our list of the best sleeping pads is the Ubon Double Self-Inflating Sleeping Pad. If you’re a party of two or you just like to have extra room to spread out, this is a great choice for you.
Made of 190T pongee fabric with 21D high-resilience sponge filling, this pad evenly distributes weight and offers excellent insulation qualities. Moisture proof and abrasion resistant, this pad can stand up to all types of conditions and will provide a warm sleeping surface in all seasons.
- ✅ SELF-INFLATING/DEFLATING AIR MATTRESS - 23mm large diameter non-leak valve could inflate or deflate the pad when you unroll or pack it up. No pump needed and just place the sleeping pad on a flat surface and watch it inflate to about 1.4 inch height. First inflating may take a little bit longer.
- ✅ COMFORTABLE AND DURABLE SLEEPING MAT - This 1.4" thickness sleeping mat is made of moisture-proof and abrasion-resistant 190T pongee fabric with 21D high-resilience sponge filling. It is skin-friendly, thick, wide, durable, and never worry about the rock, uneven ground or damp. Super comfortable all night long, suitable for couple, kids, adults and family for all seasons even in cold weather.
- ✅ERGONOMIC PILLOW - Ergonomic design pillow fits head curve to provide head and neck support with bed-like comfort for great night sleep. Light aerated valve with two openings for quick inflation and deflation. Blow pillow up to the appropriate height through the first opening. And deflate the pillow in 1 second through the second opening, you never need to squeeze pillow nozzle to deflate.
- ✅CONNECTABLE - With snap joint design, you can combine sleeping pads to form a large family pad. It’s a great feature if more people are accommodated. A patch bag is prepared to repair little holes on the air mattress if ripped by sharp rock.
- ✅LIGHTWEIGHT SELF-INFLATING SLEEPING PAD - Double sleeping pad: 74.8'' x 51.2''x 1.4''. Package size: D7.5'' x 25.6''. Weight: 6.8 lbs. Lightweight and compact, perfect for camping, hiking, traveling, slumber parties, outdoor activities and overnight guests, also great for storage in your car, trunk or your home.
A built-in ergonomic pillow fits the curve of the head to provide support that is similar to your own bed. The light aerated valve with dual openings allows for fast inflation and deflation. It even features a snap joint design, so if you’d like to, you can attach another pad for even more room.
Self-inflating design is easy to set up and it deflates quickly, too, for fast and use. When you’re ready to pack it up, just deflate the pad, roll it up, and slip it into the included carrying case.
- Offers space for two sleepers
- Features dual built-in ergonomic pillows
- Made of 190T pongee fabric with 21D high-resilience sponge filling
- Evenly distributes weight
- Provides excellent insulation qualities for all season use
- Size can be expanded, thanks to the snap joints
- Self-inflating
- Available in several colors
Other Best Selling Options
- 【Innovation Hexagon Design】Just Want to sleep comfortably anywhere? WANNTS sleeping pad innovation hexagon design is made special with body mapping technology.No need to suffer with a cheap, flimsy, and undersized outdoor sleeping pad! This quality portable camping pad is perfect,great sturdy and super comfortable - great for any sleep position!
- 【Foot Press to Inflate-Only 20s Needed】 There is no need to inflate with your hands, mouth, or a pump for our camping sleeping pad. It just only takes 20s after you inflate the sleeping mat fully by stamping the spot of the built-in pump with your foot.With anti-leakage films in the valves, you would never worry about air leaking when using it! Besides, super quick to deflate - take out the deflation plug.It's time to plan a camping and hiking with our innovative camping sleeping pad now!
- 【Sturdy, Durable, Compact But Lightweight Sleeping Pad】Made with the strongest outdoor-grade material, WANNTS sleeping pad is perfect for any weather conditions. Be able to accompany you on any type of adventure, our camping mattress pad inflates to an impressive size of 75" X 25" and will give you the comfort you need.The sleeping pad is waterproof and only 30OZ weight, making it perfect and super easy to carry for any outdoor activities.
- 【Get all What You Need for Camping Sleeping Pad】 The package comes with 1 Sleeping Pad, 6 Repair Patch Kit, 1 Storage Bag, 1 User Manual.You can get everything you need for ourdoors hiking, camping,backpacking, trip.
- 【Buy Two for a Double Bed! Refund/Replacement Warranty】 With buttons on its side, you can easily attach one to another sleeping pad and make it a double bed according to your need. Any question, please feel free to contact us.Our professional customer service is therefore here to do whatever it takes to promise your satisfaction. That's why your purchase comes backed with our incredible warranty; anytime, any reason, no questions asked!
- REJUVENATE YOUR BODY: Powerlix camping pad has revolutionary hexagon design made with body mapping technology. The hexagon air cells ergonomically support all of your pressure points, giving you superior support and comfort all night long, no matter how you sleep! The sleeping mat is also a camping gear must haves luxury, being comfortable yet lightweight. It rolls up small, making it effortless to carry around. The cot comes in a variety of color choices, sure to match anyone's personality.
- LIVE YOUR LIFE TO THE FULLEST: It's time to plan a trip! Our camping sleeping pads cannot be easier to inflate than with our inflating bag. It has a dual action, non-leak air valve to inflate and deflate the mattress. First store air in the bag and push it in like a pump. Light & small when packed, it won't cause backaches from its weight and fits easily in your backpack. Being insulated, it's perfect for the best night of sleep during adventure, hiking, camping, backpacking, in any weather!
- UNIQUE LONGLASTING DURABILITY: It's the mat of all mats! The self inflating sleeping pad is made of durable, outdoor grade materials. It includes thermal insulation, to keep your body warm from the cold winter ground. Our camping sleeping mat is 100% waterproof, making it perfect for any outdoor activities. You can say goodbye to sore backs and other discomforts normally left by bumps and rocks underneath the floor of your tent!
- EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR OUTDOORS: This exclusive camping sleeping pad also comes with storage bag, 2 repair kits, and a multipurpose inflating bag. A patch kit is also included, stitched into the top of the storage bag. The inflating bag was designed with you in mind, for all of your needs. In addition to inflating the mattress, this backpacking sleeping pad can be used for several different things, such as a pillow, a waterproof laundry bag, or a large waterproof airtight storage bag!
- AFTER SERVICE WARRANTY: PowerLix guarantees to have your back! Our US-based customer service means that you can trust that if you’re not satisfied for any reason, you can get a hassle-free refund or replacement. Don't hesitant to reach out if you have any questions. We want you to be nothing but happy with your new, top of the line, camping bed! We are confident of our camping pads for sleeping and know you will like it. That's why your purchase comes backed with our incredible warranty.
- 2" THICK SLEEP SUPPORT - Want to sleep comfortably anywhere? Then you will love this backpacking sleeping pad! No need to suffer with a cheap, flimsy, and undersized outdoor sleeping pad! This quality portable camping pad is perfect; super sturdy and extremely comfortable - great for any sleep position!
- LIGHT & PORTABLE - Weighs only 14oz and packs down to the size of a thin water bottle, these are the perfect sleeping pads to accompany you on your next backpacking trip! These ultra-light and super-portable sleeping pads will fit in any backpack and won’t cause backaches from its weight. You’ll wish you found this years ago. Very convenient to carry and comes with a sleek storage pouch.
- TEAR-RESISTANT WITH HEAVY-DUTY RIPSTOP NYLON FABRIC - These lightweight sleeping pads are made of super strong, waterproof, camping-grade ripstop nylon fabric. With 20 denier thickness, these sleeping pads are designed to last a lifetime in the most severe conditions.
- SIZE - Able to accompany you on any type of adventure, these camping mattress pads inflate to an impressive size of 74" X 22" and will give you the comfort you need.
Sleeping Pad Buyer’s Guide
Backpacking is a great escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It affords you the opportunity to unplug from your hectic lifestyle, the never-ending stream of information, and the extreme levels of stress that so many are experiencing in today’s world.
Through backpacking, you can explore the beauty and majesty that Mother Nature offers, slow down, take a deep breath, and remember what really matters to you.
While there’s no doubt that backpacking may be one of the greatest escapes, there is one downside: getting a good night of sleep. It’s kind of hard to take full advantage of all of the benefits that backpacking offers when you’re unrested, because let’s face it; trying to get comfortable on the hard ground can be virtually impossible.
Sure, a blowup mattress or a cot are great solutions, but can you even imagine trying to tote either one on your back while you’re trekking through mountains, along the beach, in the backwoods, or any other off the beaten path location?
Fortunately, there’s a solution that will allow you to get much-needed rest during your travels without having to pack a cumbersome blowup mattress or cot. What is it? A sleeping pad!
As the name suggests, a sleeping pad is, well, a pad that’s intended for sleeping (seems pretty obvious, right?). They’re similar to blowup mattresses, in that they provide two critical functions for getting much-needed rest when you’re out on the trails: cushioning and insulation. The cushioning, of courses, is the most apparent benefits that a sleeping pad provides; however, just as important – if not more so – is the insulation it offers. Combined, these two factors mean that a sleeping pad provide a comfortable and warm surface, and can prevent you from shivering, tossing and turning, waking up with sore muscles (which will only slow you down).
Given the important functions that a sleeping pad plays, it’s no wonder it’s considered an essential piece of backpacking equipment. Because they are so crucial, when you’re shopping for a sleeping pad, you’re going to find that there are tons of options to choose from.
While choice is certainly a great thing, trying to narrow down the options and pick the best sleeping pad for your specific needs can be pretty daunting. To help you avoid confusion and frustration, we’ve taken the liberty of doing the legwork for you. After scouring the internet and reading through the descriptions and reviews of literally dozens of sleeping pads, we’ve compiled a list of what we believe to be the top sleeping pads currently available on the market.
Thus far, we’ve highlighted our top picks for the best sleeping pads currently on the market. While all options featured in our list are high-quality, reliable, and durable, you’re probably wondering which one to pick.
To help you make the right decision, in the buyer’s guide portion of our review, we’re going to discuss some of the most important factors that should be taken into consideration when you’re shopping for a sleeping pad. By considering these factors, you should be able to select the appropriate sleeping pad for your specific needs.
The Type
First, you need to decide what type of sleeping pad you’d like. There are three main types:
- Self-inflating – These pads combine open-cell foam insulation and air, which allows the foam to expand when the valves are opened so that the pad inflates on its own. Self-inflating pads are easy to set up, offer great insulation, the firmness can be adjusted, and they’re quite durable. The downside is that they’re a bit heavier and more expensive than other types of pads.
- Air – Usually made with insulation and/or reflective materials, these pads offer a good amount of insulation. They often feature alternative inflation methods, too, which would mean you won’t have to blow them up using your own air. They’re very comfortable, lightweight, and easy to transport; however, they’re easy to puncture or tear than other types of sleeping pads.
- Closed cell foam – These are the most basic of all sleeping pads. They’re made of dense foam that’s filled with closed air cells. They main appeal of closed cell foam pads is that they’re lightweight, durable, provide consistent warmth, and are economically priced. On the downside, they aren’t as comfortable as air and self-inflating sleeping pads.
Materials
You’ll also want to consider the materials that the sleeping pad is made of. Obviously, you want it to be as durable as possible so that it can withstand rocks, branches, twigs, etc. The best sleeping pads are made of high-denier materials, such as rip stop nylon, and are waterproof, abrasion proof, and tear resistant.
Warmth
As mentioned, warmth is one of the most valuable benefits that a sleeping pad provides. The warmth a sleeping pad offers is determined by its insulation and R-value (the ability to resist heat flow through the pad). The higher the R-value, the more insulation it will provide and the warmer you will be. R-values range from under 1 to 5 or higher, with lower numbers providing less insulation and higher numbers providing more.
Dimensions
You want to make sure that the sleeping pad will provide enough room to accommodate you while you sleep. If it’s too small, you’ll end up hanging off of the surface, which will detract from the entire purpose of a sleeping pad.
The standard size of most sleeping pads is 72 inches by 20 inches, which provides enough space to accommodate an average sized adult; however, there are models that are shorter, longer, and wider. Make sure you consider your own height and whether or not you’ll be sharing the space with someone else to determine what dimensions will best suit your needs.
Ease of Use
Ease of use refers to how easy it is to inflate and deflate the sleeping pad, as well as how easy it is to store and transport – the folded size and weight of the pad. Self-inflating sleeping pads are the easiest to set up; however, they tend to be heavier than those that require manual inflation.
A really good sleeping pad – regardless of the ease of inflation – will fold down into a compact size so that it can be easily tucked away when not in use and won’t weigh you down.
Surface Construction
For restless sleepers, a sleeping pad that features a brushed-fabric or textured surface is ideal. These types of surfaces prevent the sleeping pad from shifting underneath you, and can also cut down on the amount of noise it makes when you move about.
Sleeping Pad FAQs
To wind up our sleeping pad guide, we’re going to highlight some of the questions that shoppers ask most often about this outdoor sleeping surfaces and the answers to those questions.
What is a inflation sack?
An inflation sack, also referred to as a pump sack, is intended to make inflating a sleeping pad a lot easier. These sacks feature an air nozzle on the bottom, which is attacked to the inflation valve on the sleeping pad. Once attached, you would fill the sack with air and the squeeze the sack to move the air into the pad to inflate it.
How much R-value do you need?
As mentioned, one of the most crucial sleeping pad specs is the R-value, as it indicates how much insulation the pad provides. If the pad doesn’t provide enough insulation, you’ll end up feeling the effects, as the coldness of the ground will transfer through the pad and to you. In general and R-value of 3 would be suitable for 3-season backpackers, while an R-value of 5.5 or higher is recommended for cold-weather backpackers.
Can a sleep pad be used for more than just backpacking?
Absolutely! It can be used for any activity that requires a portable sleeping surface; tent or car camping, or even an indoor sleepover.
Conclusion
The right sleeping pad can make all the difference in the world on the success of your outdoor adventures. With the information provided in this guide, you should have no trouble selecting a sleep pad that will provide you with a warm and comfortable night of sleep.
Here’s our top picks again…
- Best Pick: DEHUMI Camping Air Sleeping Pad Mat
A sleeping pad should provide cushioning and insulation, but it should also be lightweight, durable, easy to use, and reliable. The DEHUMI Camping Air Sleeping Pat Mat definitely ticks off all of those boxes, which is why we chose it as our pick for the best overall sleeping pad. Standing at 2.7 inches tall when inflated and made of super durable materials, this pad does an excellent job of providing a soft, warm surface to sleep on. - Premium Pick: INVOKER UltraThick FlexFoam Sleeping Pad
For shoppers who are have a little extra room in their budget and want to go all out on a sleeping pad, the INVOKER UltraThick FlexFoam Sleeping pad is the option that we’d recommend. This self-inflating pad is three inches thick when inflated, so you won’t feel any pebbles, roots, twigs, or anything else digging into your back on the ground beneath you. - Budget Pick: MEETPEAK Camping Sleeping Pad
If you’re looking for a high-quality, reliable, comfortable, and easy to transport sleeping pad that won’t break the bank, this option from MEETPEAK is a great choice. Featuring patented air support technology, the air cells in this sleeping pad comfort of the body and disperse pressure for exception comfort and support.
