The Best Air Mattress For Backpacking In 2024

Sarah Combs By, Sarah Combs
Updated
Sleepingo Sleeping Pad for Camping - Ultralight Sleeping Mat
Image credit: Amazon.com

Our Top Picks

1. Best Overall: Sleepingo Sleeping Pad for Camping - Ultralight Sleeping Mat

Get the most out of your outdoor experience with the Sleepingo Ultralight Sleeping Pad! With 2" THICKNESS SUPPORT, this quality portable camping pad is perfect for any sleep position. This durable and comfortable ultralight sleeping pad is a great addition to anyone's camping gear. Read Review

2. Runner Up: POWERLIX Sleeping Pad – Ultralight Inflatable Sleeping Mat

The Ultralight Sleeping Pad is a compact sleeping mat that weighs just 2.5 pounds and is ideal for backpacking, camping, or even as an emergency car or plane seat cushion. It's an easy-to-carry and packable design that sets up in seconds with no need for extra gear. With our built-in polyester thermal insulation, the Ultralight Sleeping Pad is perfect for any weather condition, from the summer heat to the winter cold. Read Review

3. Best Economical: Outdoorsman Lab Sleeping Pad for Camping - Patented Camp Mat

Leave the hard ground behind and sleep like a king out in the great outdoors with this patented camping pad. This sleeping pad has an R-value of 2.2, making it ideal for all seasons, even cold weather. The durable, latex-free foam won’t pick up dirt or collect insects to keep you from your rest. It is also designed to be very compact and lightweight for easy transport and storage. Read Review

4. Best Easy Set Up: ZOOOBELIVES Extra Thickness Inflatable Sleeping Pad with Built-in Pump

The ZOOOBILES sleeping pad is a must have for any camping or hiking trip that requires an extra thickness of protection. This inflatable sleeping pad is 75D Polyester pongee fabric with extruded PVC lamination. It's waterproof and warm which will protect you from the wet ground in extreme conditions. This sleeping mat is perfect for your travels and adventures. Read Review

When you’re planning your next backpacking trip, one of the first things you should consider is where you will sleep. That’s right, the place where you sleep can make or break your camping trip. Luckily, there are a ton of options when it comes to finding the best air mattress for backpacking.

Whether you're car camping, van camping, or tent camping, an air bed will come in handy. However, not all air mattresses are created equal and many of them don’t fit your needs as well as they could. Let’s take a look at what we know about the best air mattresses for backpacking so that you can find the perfect option for your next trip!.

We have chosen many of the good items currently available, including Sleepingo Sleeping Pad for Camping - Ultralight Sleeping Mat - our favorite one. We also provide you with POWERLIX Sleeping Pad – Ultralight Inflatable Sleeping Mat model that you may consider if the top product is not your choice.

You will be surprised at the information we are about to share below! Let's explore the special features of products from famous brands including Sleepingo, Powerlix, Outdoorsman lab, Zooobelives, Klymit, Therm-a-rest, Meetpeak, Aksoul, Tahoe trails, Akaso, Loowoko right here.

Our Top Picks

  • 2" THICK SLEEP SUPPORT - Want to sleep comfortably anywhere? Then you will love this 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!
  • TEAR RESISTANT WITH HEAVY DUTY RIPSTOP NYLON FABRIC – this lightweight sleeping pad is made of super strong, waterproof, camping-grade ripstop nylon fabric. With 20 denier thickness, this sleeping pad is designed to last a lifetime in the most severe conditions.
  • 100% Refund/Replacement Warranty: PowerLix guarantees to have your back! We want you to be nothing but happy with your new, top of the line, camping bed! Our professional customer service is therefore here to do whatever it takes to guarantee your satisfaction. That's why your purchase comes backed with our incredible warranty; anytime, any reason, no questions asked!
  • Unique Everlasting Durability: It's the mat of all mats! The Sleeping Pad is made of durable, outdoor grade materials, such as 75D nylon. It includes thermal insulation, to keep your body warm from the cold winter ground. It 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!
TOP Choice #3 Outdoorsman Lab Sleeping Pad for Camping - Patented Camp Mat
Our Score:
9.6
Outdoorsman Lab
  • Easy Inflation & Deflation for Explorers on the Go: Our camping mat has an easy-to-use air valve for quick inflation (only 10-15 breaths). A few more breaths provide extra firmness & support. Deflation is also very easy by pushing the black rubber piece inside the valve "inside-out" to create a 'leak’. Then, simply start folding the pad away from the valve, toss the light, compact mat in your pack, and proceed to your next adventure!
  • Perfect for Backpackers and Hikers: The Ultralight sleeping pad can roll up to 8x3 and weighs only 14.5oz - similar to a water bottle. This is perfect for backpackers who want to pack light and compact. No worry about being bulky and heavy. It’s the worry-free option for serious adventurers - no back aches carrying it or headaches setting it up.
  • * FAST INFLATABLE DESIGN with Built-in Air Pump. Simply stomp or hand press to inflate. Much easier than blowing it up with your breath or another pump, no batteries needed. And the outtake valve has the double-decked design, one is for inflating or slow release of air for adjusting the firm you like, and the 2nd is for quick deflation. So if you haven't got the skill of built-in pump yet, don't worry, you also can blow it up by mouth or electric pump though that valve.
  • * 100% MONEY BACK GUARANTEE ensures this will quickly become your favorite no-risk purchase. Many people are stocking up with several of these to outfit the entire family or share with friends. We committed 90-Days Money Back Guarantee / 2-Year Warranty / Life Time Support, A perfect gift for yourself and your loved ones!
  • Incredibly lightweight (25 ounces) and packs small to 5 x 8 inches
  • 4 season backcountry camping pad: Lightweight insulated air mattress with Klymalite insulation to keep you warm when its cold out; R-Value of 4. 4
  • The standard for ultralight backpacking, the XLite backpacking mattress delivers unrivaled comfort and warmth for minimal weight
  • Patented Triangular Core Matrix delivers warmth using a continuous layer of thermal foam nestled between alternating ridges of air and foam
  • 【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.
  • 【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!
  • Ultralight & Spliceable Design - Inflatable sleeping pad can be folded up to 28x12x10cm, like a bottle of water you carry. With the snap fasteners on the side, you can easily attach one to another mattress and turn it into a double bed! Our camp pad is double-sided usable and comes in different colors, you can choose as you like. Besides, we offer several transparent tapes in the package, which are intended to be stuck on the crack in case the mat is punctured during the trip.
  • Built-in Foot Pump Design - This backpack sleeping pad features a unique built-in foot pump design that allows you to fully inflate the pad within 1 minute by stepping on your feet, which will take 40%-50% less inflation time. It is more convenient, easier to and hygienic than inflating by hand or mouth.
  • Unique connectable design: our inflatable camping pad is designed with snaps on the sides, so you can connect two sleeping mats together to create a double bed for extra wide space. Ideal for various outdoor activities, especially suitable for couple or family journey
  • Upgraded inflation & deflation system: provide user friendly experience, the inflation pump and deflation valve are positioned differently, which avoids air leakage and achieves quicker deflation. and weighs about 1.96lb, portable for travel, camping, trekking, hiking, backpacking
  • 『HEAVY DUTY RIPSTOP NYLON FABRIC』This camping air mattress with built in pump is made of super strong waterproof, camping grade ripstop nylon fabric with a impressive 40D denier thickness and TPU Coating, so the inflatable sleeping mat is light, wear-resistant and good-looking. The durable material ensures a long service life and saves your money.
  • 『BEST GIFT CHOICE & HASSLE-FREE LIFETIME REPLACEMENT / NO NEED TO RETURN!』We have confidence in the quality of our products and treat you like family is our main goal. The sleeping pad for camping comes with a lifetime replacement, if you aren't happy with your purchase, we will simply refund your money [no questions asked], our 24-hour online customer service. The reviews speak louder than words!

Try one of the following guide to pick best air mattress for backpacking for you need

Maybe you feel overwhelmed by the variety of choices when it comes to purchasing best air mattress for backpacking? Visitors didn't even know if a better option was available. We have a few suggestions which will make things easier and thus save you time and effort.

Review them out below to see whether the item you're looking for is right for you!

Inflation Level

Backpacking Light conducted an experiment to determine how inflation affects the R-value real world of a mattress. The pad will be warmer if there is more air. You will also find it uncomfortable to sleep on a firm pad.

Weight

Many backpackers weigh weight. Just look at how fast the ultralight backpacking movement has grown. Like any other piece of gear outdoors, the lighter it is the more delicate it will become. No matter how heavy your gear is, you should take care to set up camp or store it safely.

Sleeping Pad Dimensions And Shape

Many sleeping pads can be purchased in unisex sizes and are available in either two or three sizes. The average "regular" pad is 72 inches in length and 20 inches wide at its widest point. While the larger pads are between 77 to 80 inches and 25 inches wide, they can be as large as 77 inches and 80 inches. They can be divided into two main categories in terms of their shape: rectangular or mummy pads, which taper toward the feet to reduce weight; and rectangular pads, which are larger and more accommodating for active and comfort-minded sleepers.

Durability

Air-constructed sleeping pads have brought with them a serious concern. These air-filled sleeping pads are extremely durable. It is also important to be able to repair them quickly. Every pad we tried came with a small patch kit and all pads had a warranty. It is worth checking before you buy. The thickness of the laminated shell is measured in "denier", with a greater number representing thicker/more dense materials. We have found backpacking sleeping pad denier values as high as 75D, with 15D being the smallest.

Warmth

Warmth is the main reason you should bring along a sleeping pad in colder climates. Your pad should only be one component of an entire sleep system that keeps you warm and alive. This is crucial to ensure that your setup stays as light and warm as possible. Consider the shelter that you will use most often. Double-walled shelters, such as a snow cave or tent made from properly manufactured snow, are much more comfortable than open bivys or other ultralight shelters. Your sleeping pad, and your backpacking sleeping bag are the two most important things that keep you comfortable and warm at night. Many people mistakenly blame their sleeping bag for their sleepless nights and cold temperatures. You need to be warm. But, your sleeping bag is not the only thing that matters. The ground may heat you faster than your pad.

Sleep Surface

What surfaces have the best heat retention? This is an important aspect of keeping warm when you're outside. It's best to choose snow over rock if you have to make a choice between them. The majority of the snow you see is made up air. Rock is great at quickly transferring warmth. It is better to sleep on snow than it is rock if the overnight temperatures are below freezing. You can find warm and comfortable places to sleep on soft, soft surfaces, no matter the season.

Thickness And Comfort

When sleeping on the ground comfort is subjective. Most people can't bear to camp or backpack at night. The latest gear has improved on this area. Backpacking pads can be thinner than pads and camping pads and are less plush.

R-Values

Manufacturers assign pads an R-value, which is a measure of how heat resistant they are. A pad that has a higher R-value will feel warmer. This equation can be described as linear. A pad with an average R-value 3 will resist heat loss three times more than one with an R value of 1.

FAQs

What Is R-value?

R-value, which is an abbreviation for resistance value, refers to the pad’s ability to resist heat transmissionence. For colder temperatures, high R-value sleeping pad are more suitable than lower R-value ones.

How Do I Inflate My Self-inflating Pad During Winter?

In freezing conditions, avoid breath inflating your self-inflating pad. Your breath and moisture can cause the mattress to freeze. In colder weather, the mattress might take longer to inflate. If the mattress needs more air, you can use a pump bag or an electric pump.

What Is A Good Weight For A Backpacking Sleeping Pad?

This question really depends on your intended purpose. Ultralight pads should weigh no more than one pound for those who plan to backpack or through-hike. You can probably get away with a pad that weighs less than five pounds if you are only planning to go on a short trip. For car camping, or any other purposes that do not require the pad to be carried, anything over 5 pounds is best.

How Should I Store My Sleeping Pad?

The mattress can be self-inflated by storing it unrolled in a dry area with the valve opened. The foam will self-inflate faster when you camp. Mildew can be caused by prolonged storage in damp areas. To protect your mattress from dirt, sharp objects and other debris we recommend that you leave the valve open.

How To Store A Sleeping Pad?

Closed-cell foam pads can easily be rolled up or folded up. They can also be kept naked or in an enclosed container. You can roll up open-cell foam pads, but it's best to keep them semi-inflated for longer-term storage. After deflating the air core pads, you can simply store them in their case by rolling them up.

How Should I Inflate My Self-inflating Pad The First Time?

To ensure the best possible performance, fill your mattress with either air from your own breath, or pump, and allow it to inflate for at least 2 hours before you use it.

Can I Use More Than One Sleeping Pad?

But I do not encourage you to have more than one. This can be done by using a closed cell foam pad for the base, and then putting an air core or open-cell foam pad on top. This can be a fantastic way to increase the R-values especially for frozen terrain.

What Is The Best Way To Clean My Sleeping Pad?

If you are in close contact with your mattress' surface, regular cleaning can extend its life.
Avoid putting your mattress in the washer. It is better to clean your mattress with a hose than in the washing machine. While washing, make sure to seal the valve. A quick scrub with Formula 409 (r), BioClean (tm) All Purpose Cleaner or another general cleaner will do the trick.
Use rubbing alcohol to clean tree sap from the surface. It will be a tedious job and the sap may leave stains. Any remaining stickiness can be removed by dusting the area with baby powder or talc.

How Do I Choose The Right Size And Shape Sleeping Pad?

Your height will determine the size of your pad. You should be able lay down on the pad with your head and feet not touching the ground. It is only a matter of personal choice that the shape can be more difficult. Your sleeping bag will not be affected by the shape of your pad.

Conclusion

The website has a buying guide for best air mattress for backpacking for your needs. It will assist you in determining what to purchase and how much was to purchase! If the above options do not meet your needs, consider Loowoko Sleeping Pad Camping Mat for Backpacking Gear as an alternative.

Whether any of this makes it sound daunting or if you want more information, please give us a call, our members of the team are always happy to chat and brainstorm ideas with you!


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About Sarah Combs

Sarah Combs
Sarah Combs is a visual editor who loves to travel and hike. She enjoys taking photographs of her journeys, which help her to remember the beautiful places she's been to. Sarah is grateful for the opportunities that she has had to see the world and looks forward to continuing to explore new places in the future. Sarah is the editor of CampfireHQ since 2021 and has written on a variety of topics, from camping, and hiking to other outdoor guides.

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