Best camping sleeping pads of 2023
Don’t ruin your trip with a few nights of horrible sleep.
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If you’re planning on going camping for the first time (or maybe the hundredth), you’ll want to choose one of the best camping sleeping pads. Inflatable sleeping pads are not only surprisingly comfortable, but they also insulate you from the cold. The best choice will be one that’s the right weight and comfort level for your needs. Perhaps you’re going hiking and want to avoid every unnecessary pound, or maybe you’re going car camping and comfort is your prime concern. Whatever your needs, one of these sleeping pads is sure to be right for you.
Multiple sizes: Sea to Summit Comfort Light Insulated Sleeping Mat
Amazon
This nylon sleeping mat is a great choice if you want to sleep on a firm surface and like to switch positions during the night. It’s lightweight enough to be suitable for backpacking trips or bike touring while also providing enough comfort. Sea to Summit’s air pump sack is honestly a lot of fun to use, makes the process a lot easier, and ensures that the mat will stay fully inflated. It also comes with two different valves to inflate and deflate the air.
Thermal foam interior: Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm Ultralight Backpacking Air Mattress
Amazon
The Therm-a-Rest Ultralight air mattress is, as the name suggests, ultralight. Since it’s under one pound, it’s the ideal choice if you’re going to be hiking and your primary concern is the weight. It’s also insulated, so you’ll be able to use it all year round. You’ll have to watch out for punctures because the material is so thin, but this is also a factor in almost any inflatable sleeping mat.
Budget pick: KLYMIT Static V Sleeping Pad
Amazon
If you’re only looking to go camping during the summer, this non-insulated sleeping pad is one of the most affordable and reliable options. It’s easy to blow up and will inflate in less than 25 breaths. It won’t feel fully inflated when you first blow it up, but when you lie down, you’ll feel its support, and this also makes it easier to move around and sleep in different positions, like on your side.
Most luxurious: Exped Megamat 10 Insulated Self-Inflating Sleeping Pad
Amazon
The Exped Megamat might be the closest you’ll get to sleep on a mattress in the outdoors. It’s the sturdiest option and definitely feels the most comfortable. Of course the extra cushioning comes with more weight. This one weighs 3.75 pounds, almost four times more than the Therm-a-Rest Ultralight, which is .95 pounds. If you’re only planning on car camping though, this would be a solid, not to mention, luxurious, option.
Long-lasting: Sleepingo Camping Sleeping Pad
Amazon
If you have never tried a sleeping pad before, prepare to have your camping comfort taken to the next level. This lightweight, inflatable sleeping pad provides two inches of glorious comfort—especially if you’re camping on salt flats or extra rocky terrain. It takes about 10 to 15 breaths to inflate, deflates within seconds, and packs up quickly, so you can carry a bit of comfort with you easily.