Top 5 Camping Sleeping Pads

Buying guide for Best camping sleeping pads

If you’re ready to make a purchase, check out our top recommendations:

• Best of the Best: FUN PAC Camping Sleeping Pad
• Best Bang for the Buck: Tame Lands Sleeping Pad for Camping
• Easiest to Use: TETON Sports Canvas Camp Pad
• Most Portable: Sleepingo Sleeping Pad for Camping
• Budget Option: MOXILS Sleeping Pad

Camping allows us to connect with nature, but a good night’s sleep can be elusive on the ground. Even in a well-pitched tent, the surface beneath can be uncomfortable and cold. This is why a camping sleeping pad is crucial—it offers cushioning and insulation, making your outdoor sleeping experience far more enjoyable.

When you’re ready to invest in a camping sleeping pad, refer to our recommended products above. For further guidance on how to choose the right sleeping pad, keep reading.

Types of sleeping pads

A sleeping pad is primarily a large cushion that enhances comfort when sleeping in a tent. It also helps retain body heat, preventing you from losing warmth to the cold ground. Typically, you’d place your sleeping pad under a traditional sleeping bag, possibly adding additional blankets for extra warmth.

When selecting a camping sleeping pad, you’ll generally encounter three main types: air pads, self-inflating pads, and closed-cell foam pads. Below, we outline the pros and cons of each type.

Air pads

Air pads are lightweight sleeping pads, perfect for hiking or backpacking. They often require inflation by breath, although some models come with built-in pumps for convenience.

Air Pad Pros:

• Offers great comfort.
• Lightweight and easy to carry.
• Firmness can be adjusted to your liking.

Air Pad Cons:

• Susceptible to rips or punctures, which can be tricky to fix.
• May lose air due to temperature changes.
• Can be noisy, particularly for restless sleepers.

Self-inflating pads

Self-inflating pads combine air and foam for cushioning. They automatically fill with air when the valve is opened, and many can be easily stowed in a backpack for hiking.

Self-Inflating Pad Pros:

• Very comfortable.
• Excellent insulation properties.
• Firmness can be customised.
• More durable compared to air pads.
• Generally, they maintain their air better.

Self-Inflating Pad Cons:

• Heavier than air pads.
• Typically more expensive.
• Can also be prone to rips, but easier to repair than air pads.

Closed-cell foam pads

Closed-cell foam pads consist of dense foam with small, closed air cells, providing decent insulation and portability since they can be rolled or folded.

Closed-Cell Foam Pad Pros:

• Lightweight and easy to transport.
• Inexpensive.
• Highly durable and resistant to rips.
• Can also be used as a sitting pad.

Closed-Cell Foam Pad Cons:

• Can feel stiff and less comfortable.
• May be bulky, making them harder to pack.

Choosing the right sleeping pad size and thickness

Length

To ensure a restful night, your shoulders and hips should lie on the pad. A “short” pad (about three-quarters the length of a standard pad) measuring 47 to 48 inches long may suffice for many. For those who prefer extra insulation for their legs and feet, a regular or extra-long pad measuring between 72 and 78 inches is advisable.

Width

Standard pads are usually 20 inches wide. However, individuals who are larger or tend to move about while sleeping may find extra-wide pads (25 to 30 inches) more comfortable. Generally, longer sleeping pads also offer additional width.

Thickness

A sleeping pad should be thick enough to provide adequate support, with most pads around two inches thick offering sufficient cushioning.

Be aware that thicker sleeping pads can be more challenging to pack for your adventure.

A special note for hikers

For those hiking to their camping spots, the weight of the sleeping pad becomes particularly important. Heavier pads can weigh you down and take up valuable space. Thus, it’s essential to find a balance between weight and comfort when selecting a pad.

We recommend that hikers opt for pads weighing one pound or less, which aligns with the lightweight nature of closed-cell foam pads.

The importance of insulation and r-value

To stay warm while camping, your sleeping pad should have insulation. Air and self-inflating pads typically include a synthetic insulation layer for comfort.

When considering insulation, pay attention to the R-value, which indicates the pad’s resistance to heat flow. A higher R-value signifies better insulation. Here’s a quick guideline:

• A pad with an R-value of 1 offers minimal insulation.
• A pad with an R-value of 10 provides maximal insulation.
• For summer camping, aim for an R-value of 3 to 4.
• For colder months, choose a pad with a higher R-value.

Camping sleeping pad prices

The price of camping sleeping pads varies based on type, size, thickness, and insulation level, ranging from approximately £10 to £300.

• A closed-cell foam sleeping pad typically costs between £10 and £50, and these pads are usually the lightest.
• An air sleeping pad generally ranges from £25 to £125.
• A self-inflating camping sleeping pad can cost between £75 and £300.

Tips

• Consider a textured pad. If you tend to move around a lot while sleeping, a textured or brushed fabric surface can help prevent slipping off the pad and keep your sleeping bag in place.

• Bring a patch kit. If you choose an air or self-inflating pad, always pack a patch kit. It will come in handy if you encounter any rips or tears.

• Double up as needed. In colder climates, you might want to use more than one sleeping pad for added warmth. A closed-cell pad under an air or self-inflating pad can provide extra insulation. If you don’t have an extra sleeping pad, consider placing folded clothing underneath for added warmth.

• Clean your sleeping pad. To maintain your pad, wipe it down with a damp cloth and mild soap, avoiding the valves. Air dry it before storage.

• Store properly when not in use. After cleaning, roll your pad loosely and store it in a cool, dark place, never inflated, to prevent damage.

FAQ

Q. Can you use the same sleeping pad for camping year-round?

A. Yes, if you select a sleeping pad with an R-value of 4, 5, or 6, it will be suitable for all four seasons, although you might feel warmer in summer.

Q. What type of sleeping pad is best for hiking?

A. For hiking trips, a lightweight sleeping pad that’s easy to carry is ideal. Closed-cell foam pads are excellent choices due to their light weight and compact nature.

Q. What type of sleeping pad is best for car camping?

A. If you’re driving to your campsite, comfort is key. Self-inflating pads are great for their ease of use and comfort, while air pads can also work well, albeit requiring more effort to inflate.