Sleeping pads serve two key purposes for a good night's sleep in nature: they provide cushioning and insulation. While it might look like the main benefit of a pad is to offer a comfy place to rest, its role in keeping you warm during the night is usually even more crucial.
From self inflating sleeping pad to air pad models, choosing the right one for you requires a some insight. Here's what you need to know.
Types of Sleeping Pads
Self-Inflating Sleeping Pads
Self inflating mats or pads combine open-cell foam insulation with air. By opening the valve, the foam expands and draws in air automatically. Some models are specially designed for backpacking, allowing them to be folded lengthwise and rolled up for easy storage in a backpack. Other models are better for car camping and can be rolled up without the need for folding. These pads provide a wide array of options regarding warmth, size, and price.
The self inflating sleeping pad is comfortable and relatively compact, provides excellent insulation, and allows for firmness adjustment by adding or releasing air. Additionally, they tend to be more durable than standard air pads. It's heavier and pricy than most basic foam pads and doesn't pack as compactly as air pads. While they can be punctured or torn, making field repairs is generally easy.
Air Pads
Air pads come in a wide range of designs, and are made for various needs from lightweight options suitable for backpacking to thicker models ideal for glamping. Many contemporary air pads incorporate insulation and/or reflective materials to enhance warmth. Additionally, many air pads offer alternative inflation methods.
The good things about air pads are that they're quite comfy lightweight, and easy to pack. You can adjust the firmness of the mattress by adding or releasing air through the valves. The designs and intended applications are quite varied, so it is essential to select one with an appropriate R-value for the expected conditions.
However, these are pricy and you have to keep them safe from punctures which often occurs if you have pets in your tent. You'll also have to have a suitable patch kit just in case. Air pads may give the impression of losing air when external temperatures fluctuate, so they need to be checked and adjusted for firmness before sleep. Moisture from breath can accumulate inside, potentially leading to performance degradation or issues with bacteria or mould. Using a hand pump can help with moisture buildup, as can storing the pad unrolled with the valve(s) open.
Some air pads produce a noticeable crinkling sound during movement, which may be annoying to you or other people in (or nearby) your tent. Testing pads in a store is a good choice for this aspect.
Closed Cell-Foam
These basic backpacking and camping pads are made from dense foam that contains numerous small closed-air cells. Typically, they can be rolled or folded in a Z configuration. They are lightweight, cost-effective, durable, and provide reliable insulation across various conditions. There is no concern regarding punctures or leaks. These pads are especially effective when you place them beneath other types of pads, because that way you're enhancing insulation and protecting them against punctures. They are the only pads that can be securely attached to the exterior of your backpack without the risk of damage. Additionally, they can serve as sitting pads at the campsite.
What to Consider
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Car Camping
When you have the freedom of space and weight, you can opt for a thicker, larger mattress that enhances your sleeping experience. These options are often more budget-friendly compared to lighter alternatives. Self-inflating pads are typically a solid choice for car camping.
If you prefer using regular sheets and blankets instead of a sleeping bag, large inflatable air mattresses are a great option. Just keep in mind that they can be heavy and bulky, and might not provide much insulation, so it's wise to check the specifications. A pump will be necessary for proper inflation.
Backpacking
For those who value a good night's sleep while backpacking, biking, canoeing, or kayaking, self-inflating or air pads are popular choices. They come in various thicknesses, durability levels, insulation ratings, and weights. Some even have optional chair kits that allow your pad to double as a comfy seat with a backrest, adding a touch of luxury for backpackers.
Minimalist Backpacking
When it comes to minimalist backpacking, keeping weight low and size small is the priority. An ultralight air pad is likely your best option, with some insulated full-length pads weighing under 500 grams. Make sure to check the packed sizes of your pad choices while shopping and consider that in your decision-making.
Thru-Hiking
In this case, while keeping weight down is crucial, durability for the long journey is also essential. Closed-cell foam pads are the way to go. Many thru-hikers opt for a "short" or "3/4 length" foam pad to save on weight, using their empty pack or extra clothing under their feet for added insulation if needed.
Winter Camping
For cold-weather camping, an insulated air pad with a high R-value is ideal. If you're camping on snow, you'll need even more insulation. Since the R-value is additive, think about placing a closed-cell foam pad underneath an insulated air pad or self-inflating pad. The closed-cell foam not only adds insulation but also protects the inflatable pad from punctures or damage, serving as a backup if the inflatable pad gets damaged and can't be fixed.
