Nothing ruins a camping trip like waking up on the hard ground with sore hips and shoulders. Thankfully, camping has come a long way in the past few decades and advances in equipment allow even steadfast homebodies to sleep comfortably in the great outdoors. Sleeping mats, also called camping pads, provide relief from the hard ground and offer comfortable rest just about anywhere from a tent to a car. Camping mats offer cushion and added warmth for spending the night in the wilderness.
What to Look for
From rustic simplicity to downright deluxe, the array of sleeping pads on the market offers something for everyone. For backpackers, it is all about space and weight. Look for self-inflating mats that are super compact and lightweight (some weigh less than a pound), making them a reasonable amenity even for extreme alpine climbing. Just open the valve, and the pad inflates. Dimensions and weight are usually listed on packaging. For tent, car or family campers, sleeping pads come with foam or down filling, pillow tops and stretch fleece covers for easy cleaning.
Most are made from durable polyester and have a non-slip underside to prevent the mat from moving around during the night. It is wise to look for waterproof, abrasion-resistant outer fabric. If you will be camping in cooler climates or climbing in the mountains, look for those labeled "all season" or designed for "added warmth."
While most pads are self-inflating, some less expensive types have built-in pumps. One thing is certain: there is no shortage of choices in this category. The major outdoor stores have dozens of styles and brands.
Common Pitfalls
The only thing worse than waking up on the hard ground is to buy a sleeping mat that accidentally deflates during the night. Some brands come with a repair kit. If yours doesn't, consider buying one to have on hand.
Avoid the temptation to buy the least expensive camping pad you find. It is worth a good night's sleep to invest in a comfortable, durable model that fits your budget.
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