Best Camp Pads: Buying Guide 2024

Sara Ryan By, Sara Ryan
Updated
TETON Sports Outfitter XXL Camp Pad; Sleeping Pad for Car Camping
Image credit: Amazon.com

Our Top Picks

1. Best Overall: TETON Sports Outfitter XXL Camp Pad; Sleeping Pad for Car Camping

TETON Sports Outfitter XXL Camp Pad provides extra insulation and comfort to help you stay warm in your sleeping bag. This versatile camping pad is perfect for car camping, backpacking, or camping on the ground. The oversized durable canvas shell allows for easy cleaning and a slip-on design fits perfectly on the TETON Sports Outfitter XXL Cot. Read Review

2. Best For The Price: WELLAX UltraThick FlexFoam Sleeping Pad

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. The WELLAX UltraThick FlexFoam Sleeping Pad is a no risk purchase. Your satisfaction is our guarantee and we will help you refund or replace your purchase if needed. Read Review

3. Budget Pick: Coleman Sleeping Pad | Silverton Self Inflating Camp Pad

With Coleman's Silverton Sleeping Pad, you can rest assured that you won't have to worry about rolling off in your sleep. This self-inflating pad has side bumpers to reduce the chance of rolling off and easy-to-use fasteners to keep the pad straight for easier rolling. Read Review

4. Best Easy To Use: Coleman Self-Inflating Camp Pad

Now with our new Self-Inflating Camp Pad, you can sleep on the ground or in your tent. You'll never have to worry about sharp rocks digging into your back when you're on the go. It's made from high-quality materials and comes with a stuff sack for easy storage. Read Review

Camping is one of the most fun ways to spend time with your family. It’s a great opportunity to get outdoors, relax, and spend quality time together. But for all that fun, it can be hard to find somewhere that’s safe and comfortable for everyone — not just you or your kids.

The right camping pads can make all the difference when it comes to finding a place you can feel comfortable at night, as well as one you can enjoy during the day. They’re also relatively inexpensive, making them a great budget-friendly option as well. Here we’ll explain what makes the best camp pads and explore some of our favorite pads that are available on a market today.

Following extensive study and analysis, we've come up with the TETON Sports Outfitter XXL Camp Pad; Sleeping Pad for Car Camping, which we hope will meet your demands. However, it is not the only thing on our list. We also provide you with WELLAX UltraThick FlexFoam Sleeping Pad model that you may consider if the top is not your choice.

Our Top Picks

  • CAMP COMFORTABLY: Thick, comfortable camping pad feels just like your bed at home; Open-cell foam pad; With this sleeping pad you’ll have your most comfortable camping trip yet
  • VERSATILE: Use as a ground pad or with a cot; Camping pad fits perfectly on the TETON Sports Outfitter XXL Cot; Canvas shell slips off for easy cleaning
TOP Choice #2 WELLAX UltraThick FlexFoam Sleeping Pad
Our Score:
9.6
WELLAX
  • PERFECT CHRISTMAS GIFT : What better way to celebrate Christmas than by giving the gift of an amazing adventure to your friends and family? Give one to each member of your family and enjoy a luxurious camping trip together.
  • 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.
  • SIDE BUMPERS: Reduce the chance of rolling off
  • STORAGE BAG: Attached pouch reverses to double as a pillow when stuffed
4 Coleman Self-Inflating Camp Pad
Our Score:
9.3
Coleman
  • Another quality Coleman product
  • Made of the highest quality materials
5 Outdoorsman Lab Sleeping Pad for Camping
Our Score:
9.1
Outdoorsman Lab
  • Sleep Better Under the Stars After a Long Day of Hiking: Even though it is very compact, this camping pad expands to 73 x 22 and has an optimal thickness of 2.2 inches. Active outdoorsmen find this thickness extremely comfortable, even for back sleepers and side sleepers. With an R-value of 2.2, you can stay nice and toasty camping out in temps all the way down to 40 F (4 C). It has no chemical smell and doesn't have noise. You’ll wake up refreshed, energized, and ready to explore nature.
  • Quality Guaranteed or Your Money Back: OutdoorsmanLab sleeping pads are carefully inspected before shipping to ensure that they are in perfect condition, especially since so many buy our exclusively-designed sleeping pads as gifts. Your sleeping pad is built to last and provide you with as many great nights of sleep as possible. If we don’t live up to any of these promises, we insist that you contact us so we can issue a refund + free sleeping pad on us!
  • 【SUPERIORLY WATERPROOF & NON-SLIP】 Removable waterproof sheet is machine-washable, also the high quality water-resistance zipper promotes the performance of the pads away from water. Reduce the hazards of getting sick. Black non-slip bottom is suitable for hard floor or tiles
  • 【GREAT SUPPORT & COMFORT】 High density foam has great resilience, grants you constant support, memory foam increase more wrapping feelings, brings comfort and relaxation for the body, perfect collocation between two type of foam gets your body well rested. NO MORE Back-pain or annoying Discomfort from rocky terrain from inflatable sleeping pad.
  • Soft, tufted design provides an extra layer of padding between your sleeping bag and the ground
  • Inflatable sleeping pad provides extra cushioning on camping trips
  • WATERPROOF MEMORY FOAM ROLL OUT MATTRESS - If you are looking for camping mattresses, foldable mattress or a guest bed, the Hazli twin memory foam roll up mattress is exactly what you need. Designed for maximum comfort and support, this portable mattress for adults is great for any indoor and outdoor activities. Take this roll up mattress with you when traveling as a tent bed or sleeping in your camper van
  • MOST COMFORTABLE MEMORY FOAM CAMPING MATTRESS – Made of superior memory foam, beautifully covered by a 100% waterproof cotton machine washable cover, our twin floor mattress for sleep provides great comfort and relaxation on all your adventures. The Hazli sleeping mattress for floor also has a non-slip bottom for hard floor or tiles and a pocket to keep your things in . Take this bed roll for camping on all your holidays
  • ◆【ADJUSTABLE AND FLEXIBLE】With four adjustable elastic straps in four corners,the pad can perfectly fit into different camping cots.(75*30 / 75*25 / 78*31 / 75*26 / 74*27)
  • ◆【STAY WARM ALL NIGHT】 Inside is 26D high-elastic foam which keep you away from coldness in the midnight, which prevents people especially kids from catching a cold.
  • High quality non-slip material; easy substitution to an air bed; great for a cot or hammock
  • Dual oversized air valves for fast self inflation and deflation without the need for a pump

What to Look For in a best camp pads?

Some consumers are concerned about ordering best camp pads. Various aspects should always be explored before making big product choices. Our expertise on best camp pads will help determine the best possible decision.

Please keep in mind the following points before selecting best camp pads:

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

FAQs

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 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.

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 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.

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.

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 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.

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About Sara Ryan

Sara Ryan

Sara Ryan is a freelance writer for CampFireHQ and avid diver. She first discovered her love for diving while on vacation in the Caribbean and has been hooked ever since. Sara loves exploring new dive sites and observing the fascinating creatures that live beneath the waves. As a native of Colorado, Sara enjoys spending her free time hiking and camping in the beautiful Rocky Mountains. She also enjoys writing about her adventures in diving and wildlife conservation.

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