How To Choose The Right Sleeping Mat

Selecting the ideal sleeping mat for your camping adventures may appear straightforward, but the reality is that the market offers an extensive range of options. Such a simple piece of kit comes with countless variations in shape, size, design, and constructions. Navigating through the range of choices can be quite challenging but this guide will break down the types of sleeping mat and all the considerations to take, so you can choose the right mat for you!

Click To Jump To;

TYPES OF SLEEPING MAT– Learn about the three main variations of sleeping mat’s and the benefits and drawbacks to them all.
MAIN CONSIDERATIONS WHEN CHOOSING A SLEEPING MAT
SLEEPING MAT WARMTH– Find out about R-Value and insulation of sleeping mats.
SLEEPING MAT SHAPE AND COMFORT
SLEEPING MAT PACKSIZE AND WEIGHT– We’ll look at different shapes, sizes, thicknesses and types of sleeping mat’s and what scenarios they’re best for.
YOUR SLEEPING SYSTEM– We’ll look at how your sleeping mat, sleeping bag and clothing play a part in overall warmth and comfort.
ADDITIONAL SLEEPING MAT CONSIDERATIONS
THE VALUE OF SLEEPING MATS– Learn where the value lies in sleeping mats and what you should expect to pay for different uses.
THE FINAL OVERVIEW AND COMPARISON OF THE DIFFERENT VARIATIONS OF SLEEPING MATS.

Why Do I Need A Sleeping Mat?

There are two primary reasons: comfort and warmth

Comfort

Sleeping directly on the ground can be uncomfortable, especially if the terrain is rocky or uneven. A sleeping mat provides cushioning and support, helping to prevent pressure points and improve overall comfort. This can lead to better quality sleep, allowing you to wake up feeling refreshed!

Warmth

In nearly every camping scenario, the ground tends to be colder than your body. As you lie down, heat transfers from your body to the ground through conduction. Your sleeping bag alone fails to keep you warm because the fill beneath your body compresses, expelling all the insulating air. Consequently, your sleeping mat becomes the only thing keeping you warm from below.

Types Of Sleeping Mat

There are three basic types of pads and all have their pro’s and cons; air, self-inflating and closed-cell foam. We will go through the benefits and drawbacks to them all.

Closed-Cell Foam Camping Mats

What Are They?

These are the most basic backpacking and camping pads and consist of dense foam packed with small closed air cells. Typically, they are rolled up or folded into a Z-shape for storage and transport.

Pros

They’re lightweight, inexpensive, durable and offer consistent insulation in all conditions. You don’t need to worry about punctures or leaks. They also work great underneath other types of pads to improve insulation and prevent punctures. These are the only pads that can be carried on the outside of your pack without fear of damage. They can also double as sit pads in camp.

Cons

They’re relatively stiff and firm so sleeping on them is uncomfortable compared to the other options we’ll go through. They’re also bulky, which means they don’t usually fit inside a rucksack and have to be carried on the outside.

Air Pads

What Are They?

Air pads are available in a huge range of designs, ranging from lightweight options perfect for backpacking to extra thick models suitable for glamping. Nowadays, many air pads incorporate insulation and/or reflective materials to enhance heat retention. Additionally, numerous air pads offer alternative inflation methods, allowing users to save their breath!

Pros

Air pads offer exceptional comfort and are lightweight, making them the most space efficient when packed. Adjusting the firmness of the mattress is easily done by manually releasing or adding air. Designs and intended purposes vary significantly so make sure to read the intended use on our reviewed Air Mats. you also need to ensure that the air pad you select has an appropriate R value for your expected conditions. This is something we will cover later in this guide!

Cons

Air pads typically become pricier as they become lighter and more compact. The biggest con has to be the risk of punctures or tears. It’s possible to conduct easy field repairs though with the use of a puncture patch kit.

Air pads can feel as though they’re losing air due to fluctuations in the outside temperature, so it’s advisable to check and adjust the firmness just before going to sleep. Accumulated moisture from breathing can become trapped inside, potentially leading to performance degradation or issues with bacteria and mold. Using a hand pump can mitigate moisture buildup, as can storing the pad unrolled with the valve(s) open. A lot of Air Pads do come with other inflation options so this won’t be a problem.

Some air pads make a rustling sound when shifting positions, which can be annoying to both yourself and tent mates. They also can feel unstable when moving between sleeping positions.

Self Inflating Mat (SIM)

What Are They?

They typically consist of an inner foam core, usually made of open cell foam, encased in a durable outer shell. When the valve is opened, the foam expands, drawing air into the mat and causing it to inflate automatically. These mats come in various sizes, thicknesses, and shapes to suit different preferences and needs. Some are designed for backpacking and are lightweight and compact, while others are more luxurious and suitable for car camping. They are a popular choice among outdoor enthusiasts due to their convenience, comfort, and insulation properties.

Pros

They provide great comfort and are relatively space efficient while offering great insulation due to normally having high R-Values. Plus, you can customize their firmness by inflating or deflating them. Typically, they boast greater durability compared to air pads. They’re extremely stable when moving between sleeping positions. Their easy setup and packing along with versatility, makes them a popular choice among campers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Cons

They’re heavier and more expensive than simple foam pads, and not as compact as air pads when packed. There’s also the potential for punctures, though field repairs are not difficult.

How To Choose The Right Sleeping Mat For You

Well it depends as different users have different needs. For instance, if you’re driving to you campsite for a weeks stay in one location, your needs and priorities are going to be far different from someone going on a long backpacking trip. With that being said, no matter what your intended use, you need to go through these same considerations to find the right sleeping mat for you.

Sleeping Mat Warmth

What Is R-Value?

Sleeping mats are now given an R-Value which measures an insulating material’s thermal resistance. In sleeping mat terms, it basically indicates how warm a mat is. The higher a pad’s R-value, the better it will insulate you from cold surfaces. Standardised testing was brought in for R-Value in the US in 2020. This allows you to directly compare R-Values between different brands and styles of sleeping mat. The only problem is sleeping mat companies only have to display the R-value of their mats in the US, which means this figure is sometimes hard to find.

Key Features Of R-Value

Higher numbers mean more insulation.
The scale is straightforward: A pad with an R-value of 2.0 is twice as warm as pad with an R-value of 1.0.
To calculate the total insulation for stacked sleeping pads, simply add their R-values.
As a rule of thumb, an R-value of 1.0 to 2.0 is okay for summer use. Look for 3.0 for three-season camping and 4.0 or even 5.0+ for winter camping. This is a general rule though and personal preference does play a part as cold sleepers may opt for a mat with a higher R-Value even in warmer conditions.

Insulated V Non-Insulated Mats

When you lie on your mat, your body warms the top layer of air while the bottom layer is cooled by the ground. This variance in temperature causes air circulation, leading to heat loss through convection. Additionally, you lose heat from the air in the upper portion of your mat to the lower part through radiation.

How Do Brands Prevent This?

Insulated mats minimise convection by reducing internal air movement inside the mat. This is done by utilising small air chambers filled with compressible insulation to further slow air movement called baffles. The smaller the baffles, the higher the R-Value of the mat, due to the reduction in air convection.

Many mats also incorporate a reflective internal coating or film to prevent radiation. The main drawback of this is that these materials are typically noisy and crinkly when changing sleeping positions in the night.

Sleeping Mat Shape and Comfort

When comfort is a main priority and you’re not limited by size and weight, you can choose a thicker, larger mattress for sleeping comfort. Thicker mats air pads are usually more comfortable, especially if you tend to sleep on your side and are often less expensive than their lightweight counterparts. Self inflating mats are often good choices for car camping if mat stability is a main preference for your comfort.

While some mats feature a basic rectangular profile, others are contoured in a mummy shape to reduce weight and pack size without compromising overall sleeping comfort. For larger users or those seeking added luxury in their spacious tents, many mats are available as a double size.

Similarly, for petite users or ultralight campers in their one person tents or bivvies, many mats are offered in small or three-quarter sizes, focusing on providing core warmth for the head and torso only. Some brands offer specific women’s sizes contoured to better fit the female frame. Additionally, these mats may be slightly warmer, boasting a higher R-value, as women typically experience colder sleep temperatures than men.

Weight And Pack Size

Weight and pack size may be absolutely critical or almost irrelevant factors when you think about how to choose a sleeping pad, depending on your intended use.

Sleeping Mat Weight

Lightweight pads are excellent for backpacking but are more expensive. You can save weight by choosing a mummy or tapered shape that reduces volume and packs smaller. Closed cell foam pads in short lengths are also quite low in weight.

As a rule of thumb, a good three-season sleeping mat should weigh around 600g or less. Four season mats with higher R-Values tend to be heavier, whereas ultralight mats, some of which lack insulation entirely, can significantly reduce weight. Pack sizes and volumes also vary greatly, but ideally, a three-season mat should have a packed volume of no more than two liters

Closed-cell foam mats are bulkier; however, due to their exceptional durability, most backpackers attach them to the outside of their packs, minimizing concerns about size and allowing for more space for other hiking essentials.

Sleeping Mat Length

At the very least, your shoulders and hips should comfortably fit on a mat. Opting for a shorter lightweight mat however will mean that your legs wont be insulated from the cold ground.

Sleeping Mat Width

Most pads typically come with a standard width of 50 cm (20 inches). However, if you’re a larger individual or tend to move around frequently during sleep, you might prefer a wider pad ranging from 60 to 80 cm (25 or 30 inches).

Mummy-shaped sleeping mats are lighter and pack smaller, but they may be more prone to rolling off due to their tapered design.

Certain pads feature larger side baffles, sometimes referred to as “rails,” designed to cradle you and prevent you from rolling off as you shift during sleep. These are particularly beneficial for children.

Its Not Just A Matter Of Mats

Your Sleep System

Your sleeping pad and sleeping bag function together as a system. Real world warmth and comfort can often deviate from tested temperature ratings due to various factors such as humidity, wind, shelter type, ground conditions, clothing, and personal preferences. However, the primary consideration lies within your sleep system, which is made up of three fundamental components: the sleeping bag, the sleeping pad, and the sleeper’s clothing.

Using a less insulated mat in colder temperatures may lead to your sleeping bag not performing up to its temperature rating. It’s essential to recognize that a sleeping bag’s test rating is established on the assumption that the individual is wearing long underwear and socks, and is sleeping on an insulated mat with an approximate R-value of 5.5. Consistency in these variables across all tested bags is crucial for obtaining accurate measurements.

Additional Sleeping Mat Considerations

Sleeping mat Inflation: Some pads feature both a high volume inflation valve and a deflation valve, facilitating rapid airflow in or out. Certain newer pads come with larger “neck” openings that enable quick inflation with fewer breaths. Pads with separate inflation chambers or layers can offer reassurance; in case one layer fails, the other layer still provides some cushioning.
Sleeping mat Surfaces: For restless sleepers, consider a pad with a textured or brushed fabric surface to prevent you and your sleeping bag from slipping during the night. Additionally, textured surfaces may contribute to a quieter sleeping experience.
Pad Sleeves: Certain sleeping bags come equipped with integrated sleeves to hold a pad in place, preventing you and your sleeping bag from sliding off during the night. Before purchasing a pad, check the sleeve width to ensure compatibility.
Hand Pumps: If you prefer not to inflate your pad manually after a strenuous day of hiking, look for a pad with an integrated hand pump or invest in a compact, lightweight bag-style hand pump (sold separately).
Patch Kits: Carrying patch kits is advisable for backpacking trips. Determine whether the patch kit is included with the pad or sold separately. Familiarize yourself with the process of patching a puncture before embarking on your journey, as you may need to perform repairs in low-light conditions.

Sleeping Mat Value

Like most outdoor gear, finding the right sleeping mat involves striking a balance between price and performance. This balance is also influenced by how much importance you place on getting a restful night’s sleep. While some individuals can sleep comfortably almost anywhere, others struggle to find comfort or warmth without a high quality, well cushioned mat.

In our experience, investing a bit more in a quality mat is worthwhile, as it significantly enhances the comfort of your camping experience, thereby increasing your enjoyment of the outdoors. However, if budget constraints are a concern, entry level mats can still provide good performance, often with only a slight increase in weight and bulk.

Sleeping mat prices vary greatly, ranging from around £25 for the most affordable options to well over ten times that amount for premium models. Higher prices are typically associated with greater insulation, particularly those offering exceptional warmth to weight ratios.

Sleeping Mat Overview And Comparison

Activity	Type of pad	Features/Benefits
Car camping	Self inflating mat or thick air pad	Lots of cushioning, wide range of available R-values and sizes
Backpacking	Air pad or lightweight self-inflating pad	Comfortable, lightweight, packs small, wide range of available R-values
Minimalist backpacking	Ultralight air pad	Lightweight, packs small, wide range of available R-values
Thru-hiking	Closed-cell foam camping mat	Lightweight and durable
Winter camping	Well-insulated air pad or self-inflating pad	High R-value

Final Word

We really hope this article has pointed you in the right direction in what to look for when choosing the right sleeping mat for your needs. Check out our wide range of individual sleeping mat reviews below to find the one that’s perfect for you. All our reviews contain the considerations we’ve talked about above to make it easy for you to choose the right sleeping mat for you.

DISCLAIMER– This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you purchase the product I’ve reviewed using the link provided I’ll receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Writing product reviews takes time, so this way it will help me to continue writing about products I believe in long into the future! Thank you!