The Best Backpacking Mattress: Greatest Buying Guide In 2024

Scott Nelson By, Scott Nelson
Updated
Outdoorsman Lab Sleeping Pad for Camping - Patented Camp Mat
Image credit: Amazon.com

We gathered the top 10 best backpacking mattress to assist people in updating the most recent ones so that they can make the most significant decision. Almost 6,429 reviews of customers have evaluated these goods on authoritative websites. Major brands such as Outdoorsman lab, Rugged camp, Rikkitikki, Sleepingo, Powerlix, Dehumi, Zooobelives, Wellax, Generic, Ecotek are listed below.

Our Top Picks

  • 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.
  • 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!
  • INFLATES EASILY WITH SIMIPLE NO LEAK AIR VALVE - Simply open the TOP DUAL VALVE and breathe in 20-25 breaths. It’s that easy. After tending to the fire or setting up the tent, give the mat a few extra breaths to increase the firmness to your liking.
  • INUSLATED BY 2 INCHES OF AIR CHANNELS - The 2 inch thick camping pad has soft foam insulation which creates an even, comfortable surface so you won’t feel the lumps from pebbles, twigs, and other debris on the ground that would normally ruin your sleep. 6 feet in length, the sleeping mat fits perfectly in your tent, in or under your sleeping bag, or on top of any hard surface.
  • ✅ Lightweight and Warm: The backpacking sleeping pad for camping weighs only 20 oz and has an R-value of 2.4 which makes it one of the best warmth-to-weight ratio products in its class.
  • ✅ Premium Quality Material. The ultralight sleeping pad for women and men is made of 75D woven polyester, a soft, plain-weave fabric. The material is more durable and not as slippery and noisy as nylon what makes this camp pad the best sleeping mat for camping.
  • 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.
  • WEIGHS ONLY 14 OZ AND PACKS DOWN TO THE SIZE OF THIN WATER BOTTLE - perfect sleeping pad to accompany you on your next backpacking trip! This ultra-light and super-portable sleeping pad 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.
  • Everything You Need for Outdoors: This exclusive item comes with a Sleeping Pad, carry bag, 2 repair kits, and an 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, it can be used for several different things, such as a pillow, a waterproof carry or laundry bag, or to carry the sleeping mat itself!
  • 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!
  • 【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.
  • 【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!
  • * ALTERNATIVE USE This camping mat folds up to a compact 6" x 6" x 14" just right to fit into a backpack or suitcase. Essential for backpacking, camping, car traveling, hunting, beach, etc. Even can be used as a floating mattress for great fun in summer! The Snaps also allow you to connect pads together to create the double camping pads, which provides more room to stretch out.
  • * 4" THICK FOR MAXIMUM COMFORT in this premium self inflating sleeping pad. You get a very comfy extra thick 4 inch of air padding that protects from rough ground, hard floors, and cold conditions. Providing a true 4-season pad with an estimated R-value of 4. Get a great night's sleep anywhere at any time. Measures 74" x 24" x 4" fully inflated.
  • REVOLUTIONARY DESIGN & TEAR RESISTANT : Provides a good balance between comfort and durability. This camping pad is waterproof, tear-resistant and insulates heat. Use this camping mat in any weather and on any terrain.
  • NO MORE BACK-PAIN : The only foam camping mat you will ever need! Say goodbye to back pain because your weight is supported by the UltraFlex Memory Foam mattress. Roll over or sleep on your side.
  • 【Multiple sleeping pads can be spliced】With buttons on the side, you can easily connect one sleeping pad to another sleeping pad and make it a double bed,trust me, you will love this sleeping pad.
  • 【Advanced Inflation Technology】 No more inflating by mouth and carry a pump,just press the built-in pump to inflate your air mattress.With high-quality films inside the valves, you shall never worry about leakage! Also easy to deflate - just take out the deflation plug
  • HAMMOCK APPROVED VERSATILE DESIGN - Getting a good night's rest away from your own bed shouldn't limit where you lay your head at night when you travel. Our patent-pending FlexCell honeycomb design not only contours to any sleeping position, but wherever you prefer to call it a night - whether that’s in your tent in a sleeping bag, or hammock camping under the stars. Unlike the countless ‘rigid’ sleeping pads on the market, ours is flexible, comfortable, and supportive without compromise.
  • EASY TO USE RAPID INFLATION & DEFLATION - Whether you’re setting up camp or breaking it down, the last thing you want is a sleeping pad that takes forever to blow up or pack up. Our innovative rapid one-way valve design makes both setup and stow a BREEZE (less than 10 breaths) unlike any air mattress or sleeping pad you’ve ever tried. We’re confident that the Hybern8 in your backpack will be one of the easiest to use camping accessories you’ll ever own.

What Are the Key Factors for Customers to Follow to Pick best backpacking mattress?

A range of influences contributes to the best backpacking mattress. Depending on the product, there are several ways to study it. As a result, we've come to lend a hand, offer advice, and offer answers to these issues.

A thorough search of trustworthy websites should be conducted using as many resources as feasible. Our experts use high-tech tools and a well-tuned product listing system to provide a sort of service.

It'd also be fascinating to go more into the development and analysis of these aspects. Consider the following tips in mind:

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

We decide facts since we are product consulting professionals with extensive expertise. Even so, we maintain and update the list of best backpacking mattress so the information is correct and up to date.

After reading this article, you should discover that selecting a best backpacking mattress that is both handy and economical to you is not difficult. Please don't hesitate to contact us if you require assistance.


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About Scott Nelson

Scott Nelson

Scott Nelson is a freelance writer who specializes in camping and wildlife topics for CampFireHQ. He has written for several outdoor magazines and websites, and he enjoys nothing more than spending a weekend in the woods with his family. Scott is an experienced camper and backpacker, and he has also spent considerable time studying the behavior of bears and other large mammals.

Read Scott's full bio