Whether you are going hiking, camping or on long epic expedition, a good nights sleep can make all the difference between a great trip and a terrible one. We all know that getting in some quality Zzzzs refreshes the mind and the body and sets us up for an awesome day out on the trail.

And as someone who has roughed it camping out in freezing temperatures and tropical jungles, I can honestly tell you that I would rather have a sleeping pad than a tent.  Controversial perhaps? Well the cold and the mosquitoes I can handle, but sleeping on the bare ground with a root in my back? No thanks…

If you are planning on camping regularly, you should definitely pick up a decent backpacking sleeping pad. There’s a lot of different options out there to fit every travel style and budget and I will now share my expertise to guide you through them and help you find the best one for you. From a budget sleeping pad to sleeping pads for tall people and everything in-between, I’ve seen then all…

So lets look at some of the best sleeping pads of 2024…

Quick Answer: The Top Sleeping Pads of 2024

I update this post pretty regularly as we are constantly testing new gear so as well as the examples above, there are few other sleeping pads included as honourable mentions in this review roundup. Here are the top backpacking sleeping pads that can become valued members of your sleep system!

best sleeping pad for backpacking
Our guide will help you find the best sleeping pad for YOU

Over the last ten years of hiking, camping, and backpacking, I’ve tested out over a dozen sleeping pads. We often are asked by different outdoor brands if we’ll test out there sleeping pads too so I update this post regularly whenever we find a new sleeping pad that makes the cut and offers great value.

In this post, we’re going to look in-depth at ten high-quality sleeping pads but since I know you may not have time to properly analyze ten sleeping pads, I’ve broken this down for you further in the table below which shows my top five picks of 2024…

Product
Description
THE BEST SLEEPING PAD OF 2024
Therm a Rest NeoAir Xtherm Sleeping Pad
THE BEST SLEEPING PAD OF 2024

Thermarest NeoAir Xtherm

  • Dimensions unfurled > 77 x 25 x 3 inches
  • Dimensions packed > 5 x 11 inches
  • Volume > 20 ounces
BEST VALUE SLEEPING PAD
Klymit static v2 sleeping pad review
BEST VALUE SLEEPING PAD

Klymit Static V2

  • Dimensions unfurled > 72 x 23 x 2.5 inches
  • Dimensions packed > 3 x 8 inches
  • Volume > 16.33 ounces
BEST BARGAIN SLEEPING PAD
Big Agnes Insulated Q-Core Deluxe Sleeping Pad
BEST BARGAIN SLEEPING PAD

Big Agnes Insulated Q-Core Deluxe Sleeping Pad

  • Dimensions unfurled > 72 x 20 x 3.5 inches
  • Dimensions packed > 5 x 8.5 inches
  • Volume >
LIGHTEST INFLATABLE SLEEPING PAD FOR HIKERS
Sea to Summit Ultralight Insulated Air Sleeping Pad
LIGHTEST INFLATABLE SLEEPING PAD FOR HIKERS

Sea to Summit Ultralight Insulated Air Sleeping Pad

  • Dimensions unfurled > Regular Mummy: 72 x 21.5 x 2 inches
  • Dimensions packed: Regular Mummy > 9 x 4 inches
  • Volume > 1 lb. 9 oz.
LIGHTEST SELF INFLATING SLEEPING PAD
Therm-a-Rest ProLite Apex Sleeping Pad
LIGHTEST SELF INFLATING SLEEPING PAD

Thermarest ProLite Apex

  • Dimensions unfurled > 72 x 20 x 2 Inches
  • Dimensions packed > 11 x 6.8 inches
  • Volume > 1 lb. 6 oz.
BEST SLEEPING PAD FOR TALL PEOPLE
Air Core Ultra
BEST SLEEPING PAD FOR TALL PEOPLE

Big Agnes Insulated Air Core Ultra

  • Dimensions unfurled > 72 x 20 x 3.25 inches
  • Dimensions packed > 4 x 8 inches
  • Volume > 1 pound, 6 ounces
MOST COMFORTABLE SELF INFLATING SLEEPING PAD
Sea to Summit Comfort Plus SI Sleeping Pad
MOST COMFORTABLE SELF INFLATING SLEEPING PAD

Sea to Summit Comfort Plus Sleeping Pad

  • Dimensions unfurled: Regular > 72 x 21.5 x 2.5 inches
  • Dimensions packed: Regular > 5 x 9 inches
  • Volume: Regular > 1 lb. 13.8 oz.
BEST DOUBLE SLEEPING PAD
Exped MegaMat Duo 10 Sleeping Pad
BEST DOUBLE SLEEPING PAD

Exped MegaMat Duo 10 Sleeping Pad

  • Dimensions unfurled > 77.6 x 52 x 4 inches
  • Dimensions packed > 11 x 27.6 inches
  • Volume > 9 lbs. 14.7 oz.
BEST BACKPACKING SLEEPING PAD OF 2024
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT Sleeping Pad
BEST BACKPACKING SLEEPING PAD OF 2024

Thermarest NeoAir Xlite

  • Dimensions unfurled > 72 x 25 x 3 inches
  • Dimensions packed > 4.6 x 11 inches
  • Volume > 16 ounces
HONOURABLE MENTION
Therm-a-Rest Trail Pro
HONOURABLE MENTION

Thermarest Trail Pro Sleeping Pad

  • Dimensions unfurled > 77 x 25 x 3 inches
  • Dimensions packed > 9.3 x 13 inches
  • Volume > 2 lbs. 7 oz.
HONOURABLE MENTION
Nemo Switchback Sleeping Pad
HONOURABLE MENTION

NEMO Switchback Sleeping Pad

  • Dimensions unfurled > 72 x 20 x 0.9 inches
  • Dimensions packed > 20 x 5.5 x 5 inches
  • Volume > 14.5 ounces

For those of you who want to get real deep, grab a coffee and strap in. I’m going to cover ten of the top sleeping pads around so that you can choose the perfect sleeping pad for your travel style.

I hike, camp and backpack a lot. In my humble opinion, these are the most impressive sleeping pads on the market…

The Best Backpacking Sleeping Pads of 2024

We have something here to suit all trips, all sleeping types and all budgets. So let’s get down to it and run through the very best sleeping pads of 2024. From cheap sleeping mats to backpacking sleeping pads, we’ve got it all.

The Best Sleeping Pad of 2024

Thermarest Neoair Xlite Nxt Sleeping Mat
Specs
  • Dimensions when unfurled: 77 x 25 x 3 inches
  • Dimensions when packed: 5 x 11 inches
  • Weight: 20 ounces
  • R Value: 7.3

Therm-a-Rest’s Sleeping pads are the best. The Thermarest NeoAir Xtherm is unrivaled as a sleeping pad, tailor-made for winter backpacking and acclaimed as the most efficient in its class. For campers in pursuit of the best, the NeoAir Xtherm stands out with its lightweight, compact design and exceptional warmth, reminiscent of a tropical island retreat.

Eschewing the typical rectangular design for a contoured shape, the Xtherm maximizes weight efficiency without sacrificing an ounce of comfort, making it a top contender in the realm of 4-season sleeping pads. However, excellence comes at a price, and while the Xtherm is indeed a premium option, it’s also an investment in unparalleled comfort and heat retention.

Overall, reviewers have given the Xtherm a 4.7 star rating and we put together our own in-depth Xtherm review here.

Another alternative is the ThermaRest NeoAir XLite NXT which is a lighter and more packable alternative. What’s more, there’s a kickass lineup of Therm-a-rest sleeping bags too, so you can combine the two for the ultimate night’s sleep in the wild!

Pros
  • Highest R value to weight ratio
  • Warmest option on market
  • Super light
Cons
  • Noisy
  • Expensive
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Best Budget Sleeping Pad

Klymit static v2 sleeping pad review
Specs
  • Dimensions when unfurled: 72 x 23 x 2.5 inches
  • Dimensions when packed: 3 x 8 inches
  • Weight: 16.33 ounces
  • R Value: 1.3

If you’re in the market for a cost-effective sleeping pad that doesn’t skimp on quality, the Klymit Static V2 is your go-to option. Renowned for offering tremendous value, this pad comes with handy extras including a stuff sack, a patch kit, and the assurance of a lifetime warranty. Designed with the backpacker’s needs in mind, the Static V2 combines the virtues of being extremely lightweight with the comfort needed for a good night’s sleep, accommodating even a 6-foot, 180-pound individual comfortably and warmly.

Inflation is a breeze, requiring only 10-15 breaths on average, and the Static V2 stands out for its durability, avoiding the common issue of air leakage that plagues many sleeping mats. This makes it a standout choice, especially considering its affordability. Side sleepers, often challenged by discomfort in the great outdoors, will find solace in the Static V2’s design, providing a comfortable resting experience without the common issue of sore shoulders.

For those seeking the best sleeping pad under $100, the Klymit Static V2 is highly recommended by our team. Its definitely the best budget sleeping pad I’ve used. See our full review for the Klymit Static V2 for more info!

Pros
  • Ten to fifteen breaths to fully inflate
  • Great value
  • Lifetime guarantee
  • Stuff sack, dry air pump and patch kit included 
Cons
  • Air gauge takes time to familiarize with

Best BARGAIN Sleeping Pad – Reduced TO Clear

Big Agnes Insulated Q-Core Deluxe Sleeping Pad
Specs
  • Dimensions when unfurled: Regular Mummy: 72 x 20 x 3.5 inches
  • Dimensions when packed: Regular Mummy: 5 x 8.5 inches

If you want a top-spec, high-value Sleeping Pad at a budget price, then this is it. Big Agnes has now discontinued this product so the last stocks are being reduced to clear. Click the button below, check it out and back a bargain before they sell out.

Stay tuned to see what stellar product Big Agnes replaces it with, but for now, it’s definitely the best value sleeping pad out there.

Pros
  • High Spec product
  • Price to clear
  • Lifetime guarantee
Cons
  • Limited stocks

Lightest Inflatable sleeping pad for hikers

Sea to Summit Ultralight Insulated Air Sleeping Pad
Specs
  • Dimensions when unfurled: Regular Mummy: 72 x 21.5 x 2 inches
  • Dimensions when packed: Regular Mummy: 9 x 4 inches
  • Weight: 1 lb. 0.9 oz.
  • R Value: 3.1

Sometimes it can be a fine line between comfort and extra weight. When cutting down on your general carry weight – shaving off a few ounces (or more) by going with an ultralight sleeping pad option is a good option for backpackers looking to prioritize an ultralight approach.  The Sea to Summit Ultralight Insulated pad is a solid no-frills option that treads the line between being ultralight and delivering a comfortable night in night out performance. 

While this pad is insulated – it does not deliver the same cold weather protection from the freezing terrain beneath the pad as well as some of the other pads on this list. When it comes to saving weight, there are always going to be compromises – and the compromise here is the relatively low R value.  That said, the STS Ultralight Insulated pad delivers an all-around great three season performance for the price.

We love just how comfortable this sleeping pad was and they felt that for the slightly heavier composition, the extra comfort was way worth it. Another plus point they found was that the pad was super easy and quick to put up and even deflated and rolled up easily too.

Pros
  • Strong weight to comfort raito
  • Very packable
  • Insulated
Cons
  • Does not perform well in super cold weather.
  • Not as light as a foam cell pad.

Lightest Self Inflating Sleeping Pad

Therm-a-Rest ProLite Apex Sleeping Pad
Specs
  • Dimensions when unfurled: 72 x 20 x 2 Inches
  • Dimensions when packed: 11 x 6.8 inches
  • Weight: 1 lb. 6 oz.
  • R Value: 3.8

This ultralight Thermarest inflatable mattress is, as far as self-inflating sleeping pads go, the smallest sleeping pad on the market. Unrivaled in terms of convenience, the Pro Lite comes in a range of three sizes (short, long, and regular) and each size is a different price meaning you can save some money if you need a small sleeping pad.

If you’re looking for a lightweight air bed, the die cut foam of the Pro Lite makes it easy to pack and carry from camp to camp. It is the best self-inflating air mattress around but it doesn’t offer the same kind of R value as the XTherm or Static V2. For a casual backpacker, the Prolite Apex is a good choice but if you plan on spending a lot of time in cold weather then I would recommend choosing a sleeping pad with a higher R value.

Is this the lightest inflatable sleeping pad in the world? No, but it’s still a good one and our team was super impressed by how well the self-inflating system worked and how much time it saved setting their camp up. Another thing our team noted was how good this pad was for side sleepers.

Pros
  • Ultralight
  • Compact when packed
  • Best self-inflating air mattress for the money; requires minimal inflating effort
Cons
  • Might not be thick enough to provide solid back support, especially for someone with chronic back problems

Best Sleeping Pad for Tall People

Big Agnes Insulated Air Core Ultra Sleeping Pad
Specs
  • Dimensions when unfurled: 72 x 20 x 3.25 inches
  • Dimensions when packed: 4 x 8 inches
  • Weight: 1 lb. 6 oz.
  • R Value: 4.5

OK, first things first, this sleeping pad comes in several different sizes and the best size for a tall or larger adventurer is the wide long size.  If you are car camping and don’t have to carry your gear very far then this is a great choice as one of the best camping sleeping pads. That said, the Air Core Ultra also makes for a good backpacking pad – especially if you are hiking with others and can thus split the weight of the tent, food, etc.

This is a fairly heavy sleeping pad but it is super comfortable and 4 inches thick… If you have chronic back problems or are a bigger person, this is a sleeping pad which can provide you with some next-level comfort. If you need an extra-long sleeping pad, you could do worse than this one.

The most awesome thing about this air mattress is the ‘internal stabiliser’ that makes sure your weight is distributed evenly while you snooze. I hiked with the smaller version of this pad on the Appalachian Trail, and though not an ultralight choice, I got excellent sleep night after night – which makes it worth its weight in gold.

Pros
  • Thicker than most self-inflating sleeping pads at 4?
  • Patch kit included
Cons
  • Heavy
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Most Comfortable Self Inflating Sleeping Pad

Sea to Summit Comfort Plus SI Sleeping Pad
Specs
  • Dimensions when unfurled: Regular: 72 x 21.5 x 2.5 inches
  • Dimensions when packed: Regular: 5 x 9 inches
  • Weight: Regular: 1 lbs. 13.8 oz.
  • R Value: 4

Sea to Summit has yet again graced our list. This time with the Comfort Plus SI sleeping pad. This is the pad to go with if the priority is 3-season comfort above all else. Delivering a cushy 2.5 inches of padding, this self-inflating sleeping pad is also built from 30-denier stretch-knit top fabric, which is going to deliver a slightly more durable performance over lightweight pads. Since the R Value of the Comfort Plus SI is around 4, mild winter adventures are now a possibility. That said, keep your expectations realistic. This is not an extreme cold weather sleeping pad. 

Every backpacker prioritizes comfort needs differently. For me personally, I would choose something a bit lighter for a long-distance hike beyond more than just a couple of days. But if you are an older person, or a person who suffers from a stiff back if you sleep on a hard surface, I’d say it is well worth the investment to go with a well-cushioned pad like this one. 

All and all, Sea to Summit delivers the quality with the Comfort Plus SI that one has come to expect with a brand which is now considered a major player in the backpacker scene.

Pros
  • Can be used in freezing conditions
  • One-way inflation valve
  • Considerable Insulation from cold ground
Cons
  • Heavier than other pads on this list.
  • I would like to see a higher R Value given the weight of this pad.

Best Double Sleeping Pad

Exped MegaMat Duo 10 Sleeping Pad
Specs
  • Dimensions when unfurled: 72 x 41 x 3.9
  • Dimensions when packed: 27.6 x 11.8
  • Weight: 4 lbs. 7 oz.
  • R Value: 2.5

Now I have always had mixed feelings about double pads. Kind of like double sleeping bags – I love the concept – but the reality does not always produce the best night’s sleep.  That said, having a double sleeping pad makes sense in a variety of situations. For car camping, festival use, or an awesome mattress substitute for your adventure camper van – the Exped Mega Mat Duo 10 is a great choice for couples.

Let us be clear, at 4lbs. 7 oz., this sleeping pad is likely to weigh more than your tent – which means it is less than ideal for backpacking or any sort of camping which involves a significant hike in. The pad itself is super comfortable, delivering three inches of padding and an easy to use pump sack, which provides for faster inflation/deflation.  The Exped Mega Mat Duo is also not a cold weather pad – so stick to late spring through early fall adventures only (unless you are using it inside of a camper van or something off of the ground. 

If you are looking for the camping version of a “love nest”, look no further. It might not be the best cheap sleeping pad at this price, but it’s an awesome choice for those wanting extra size and quality. If you’re looking for a sleeping bag to go alongside this pad, then check out the REI Siesta 20 double sleeping bag.

Pros
  • Can replace a traditional mattress in a van or tent
  • Includes pump sack
  • WingLock valve maximizes airflow for easier inflation and faster deflation
Cons
  • Heavy
  • Expensive (but costs roughly the price of 2 quality sleeping pads)

Best Backpacking Sleeping Pad of 2024

Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT Sleeping Pad
Specs
  • Dimensions when unfurled: 72 x 25 x 3 inches
  • Dimensions when packed: 4.6 x 11 inches
  • Weight: 16 ounces
  • R Value: 4.5

The Thermarest Neo Air series took the gold for excellence in 2024. The NeoAir XLite inflates quickly, offers great warmth and comfort and is a solid choice if you want to pick up the top Thermarest sleeping pad from last year. I traveled extensively with the Thermarest Neo Air myself. It’s a great travel sleeping pad. But I have now upgraded and I travel with the significantly better, XTherm.

What I love about the Neo Air is the warmth provided by this sleeping pad – it’s possibly one of the warmest out there for its size and weight. They felt it was also super comfortable and appreciated the women’s specific shape.

Pros
  • Easy to pack and deflate
  • Provides uncompromising warmth and insulation
  • Top awards
Cons
  • Tends to be a little noisy
  • Heavier than most newer sleeping pads in this range

Honourable Mention

Therm-a-Rest Trail Pro
Specs
  • Dimensions when unfurled: 77 x 25 x 3 inches
  • Dimensions when packed: 9.3 x 13 inches
  • Weight: 9 ounces (short)
  • R Value: 2.1

The Thermarest Trail Pro Sleeping Pad deserves an honourable mention thanks to its innovative new technology that reflects heat back to the user. This is a crazy good value sleeping pad and although it isn’t as comfortable as traditional inflatable sleeping pads, it’s my top pick for non-inflatable sleeping pads, it will keep you warm even if you are sleeping on snow.

This very cool sleeping pad reflects your heat radiation back towards you using a patent-pending tech which helps keep you significantly warmer than if you were on a traditional foam camping mat. It’s one of the lightest none-inflatable mats around but it doesn’t fold up quite as small as I would like, that’s probably the main disadvantage of this sleeping pad.

Our team however still loved this pad and felt the advantages of not having to inflate the pad were also worth its extra size when folded. It meant that the pad wouldn’t deflate at all in the night, they noted that as a result it does have a firmer feel and that is what some people prefer.

Pros
  • Affordable and VERY good value
  • Much better insulation than most backpacking sleeping pads in this price range
Cons
  • In extreme conditions, will not perform as well as an inflatable sleeping pad
  • Bulkier than most inflating sleeping pads for hiking

Cheapest Sleeping Pad

Nemo Switchback Sleeping Pad
Specs
  • Dimensions when unfurled: Regular: 72 x 20 x 0.9 inches
  • Dimensions when packed: 3 x 8 inches
  • Weight: 14.5 ounces
  • R Value: 2

The Nemo Switchback is a great option if you are looking to save on space and cut down some weight. The pad is exceptionally warm and is an excellent option for those who live in colder 3-season climates. With an R value of 2, I still would not recommend the Switchback for winter camping. But for all over seasons it’s definitely the best budget sleeping pad. I have tested a ton of pads in my day, but the Switchback was one of the most consistently comfortable units I have ever used. I have had positive experiences with Nemo tents and sleeping bags as well, thus I a big fan of NEMO gear in general. 

Our team rated this as one of their best budget sleeping pads because it still provided excellent warmth and protection from the hard ground at a fraction of the price. Ok, so it’s not the most comfortable on the list but for a foam pad, it’s up there with the best. On the plus side, this thing is never going to get puncture or deflate! They also found that they could fold the pad over double in some sections to add a bit of extra padding.

Want an upgrade? Check out the epic ultralight Nemo Tensor Sleeping Pad instead.

Pros
  • Cheap
  • Nice and comfy
Cons
  • Maybe a bit narrow for the average body type
  • Cheap…

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    What Should I Look For in a Sleeping Pad?

    Thermarest Neoair Xlite Nxt Sleeping Mat

    Looking at all the options for sleeping pads on the interwebs can be a bit mind-boggling. Every adventure you go on is different. Some may be long, so you need a sturdy and durable sleeping pad. Some may be short, and cold – so you need to focus on warmth. At the end of the day, you’re also going to be tired. So a pad that inflates quickly can come in handy. As a primer, here are some of the factors I look at when I feel the need to buy a new sleeping pad.

    If you’re new to exploring and camping outdoors, you might be worried about how cozy your sleeping bag is going to be. It’s important to remember here that a good sleeping bag with a camping pad can create a level of warmth, insulation, and comfort that simply wouldn’t be possible with a sleeping bag alone.

    The good news is, it’s the year 2024 and there are plenty of options for great camping sleeping pads. In fact, there are so many options that you may need some help narrowing down the options. From the best affordable sleeping pad to the absolute top-end option on the market, there’s lots of choices.

    I spend several months every year camping out in the woods or mountains, most recently in Pakistan, and I’ve used quite a few different sleeping pads over the years. There’s a few different factors you need to consider when choosing a pad for your travel style…

    Best Sleeping Pad

    Sleeping Pad Dimensions

    You need to understand how well you’ll fit onto your sleeping pad based on its dimensions compared to your own dimensions. If you’re tall, make sure your entire body will fit on your pad. If you’re short or petite, you’ll be able to get away with a smaller sleeping pad which will save on weight. The best portable sleeping pad is one with the minimum possible dimensions.

    Best Sleeping Pad

    Inflating Your Sleeping Pad

    Even the best sleeping pad needs air! The two options when it comes to inflating your sleeping pads are automatic and manual. The best self-inflating air mattress uses an air valve to suck in air and expand to create a comfortable airbed. Sleeping pads that inflate manually usually use an air pump or need to be blown into to expand. I recommend buying a pad with an integrated pump to make inflating your pad quick and easy.

    Best Sleeping Pad

    Sleeping Pad Durability

    This is an essential factor, especially if you are setting off on a long trip. Sleeping pads are what keep you warm and insulated whilst trying to sleep so if you plan on taking your sleeping pad out on a long, cold, adventure then you can’t afford to compromise on durability for price. On a long hike, make sure to pick up something that you know will last and with the appropriate R-value – which is how sleeping pad manufacturers measure the insulating capabilities of a mattress.

    best sleeping pad
    If you plan to camp, you NEED a sleeping pad…

    Why Sleeping Pads are Important

    Sleeping pads are an essential part of any serious camper or hikers kit. A high-quality sleeping pad will keep you warm, improve your night’s sleep and help your muscles relax after a hard day on the trail.

    If you sleep on the bare ground without a sleeping pad, even if you’re young and hardy, your muscles will start to ache after the second night – this is NOT a good feeling and is one that I myself was familiar with in my younger years of broke backpacking…

    Best Backpacking Sleeping Pads
    NameDimensions Unfurled (inches)Dimensions Packed (inches)Weight (lbs)Price (USD)
    Thermarest NeoAir XTherm77 x 25 x 35 x 111.25269.95
    Klymit Static V272 x 23 x 2.53 x 8174.99
    Big Agnes Insulated Q-Core Deluxe72 x 20 x 3.55 x 8.51.56119.74
    Sea to Summit Ultralight Insulated Air Sleeping Pad72 x 21.5 x 29 x 41.5159
    Thermarest ProLite Apex72 x 20 x 211 x 6.81.36134.95
    Big Agnes Insulated Air Core Ultra72 x 20 x 3.254 x 81.3669.83
    Sea to Summit Comfort Plus SI Sleeping Pad72 x 21.5 x 2.55 x 91.86229
    Exped MegaMat Duo 10 Sleeping Pad72 x 41 x 411 x 227.5349.95
    Thermarest NeoAir Xlite72 x 25 x 34.6 x 111219.95
    Thermarest Trail Pro77 x 25 x 39.3 x 130.6174.95
    NEMO Switchback Sleeping Pad72 x 20 x 0.93 x 80.954.95

    How We Tested To Find The Best Sleeping Pads

    Thermarest Neoair Xlite Nxt Sleeping Mat

    When it comes to testing out sleeping pads, there is a fairly straightforward approach we employ. One of the team lays their hands on it and then ya know, lays their body on it for a night in the sticks (or at least in their garden).

    During testing, our team members pay attention to the following criteria;

    • Packed Weight – The lighter a pad feels when attached to our backpacks the better
    • Comfort – The only way to know a pad is to unfurl it and lay on it for the night.
    • Ventilation – Does our back feel like it can breathe when lying on the pad or is it getting all sweaty and clammy?
    • Durability – Our team members look all gear over very closely paying extra attention to stress areas. Any signs of weakness will lose a sleeping pad valuable points especially if it’s one of the more expensive numbers.

    FAQ about the Best Sleeping Pads

    best camping spots in Arizona
    Camping in Arizona in winter. Don’t be fooled by my smile, it was FREEZING! Photo: Rock Slatter

    Still have some questions? No problem! We’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions below. Here’s what people usually want to know:

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      Final Thoughts on Our Top Picks For The Best Sleeping Pads For Camping

      Photo: Chris Lininger

      So to recap; the best camping pad out there is the Thermarest NeoAir Xtherm closely followed by the Klymit Static V2 or the XFrame if weight is the most important factor to you.

      If you are on a real budget then heck; take a foam sleeping pad instead. Just do NOT get the cheapest one you can find; it’ll fall apart within a few weeks. This cheaper version of the Thermarest Sol Pad is a good bet.

      Now that the results are in, I hope you find it easier to choose a sleeping pad for your travel style 🙂

      The next time you’re heading off into the wilderness or looking for the perfect gift for backpackers, pick up a sleeping pad – I guarantee you’ll find yourself redefining what it means to be a ‘happy camper’ on your adventure!

      Oh, one last thing. Now you’ve got your sleeping pad, you’ll be needing a top travel pillow too!


      And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!