The Best Sleeping Pads for Camping

The Best Sleeping Pads for Camping

Camping is an excellent way to spend a long weekend. You get fresh air, some peace and quiet, and quality time with your friends and family without all of the city noise. The only drawback? Sleeping on the ground is hard on your muscles and joints and can easily lead to pain when you wake up--if you get any shuteye at all. You won't have to worry about that if you get yourself a high-quality pad to sleep on. Check out our list of the best sleeping pads for camping and sleep comfortably on your next camping trip.

POWERLIX Ultralight Sleeping Pad

Simple Comfort

A high-quality sleeping pad that offers a ton of convenient features.
Best Overall

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If you go hiking and camping regularly, you know how important it is to find a compact and lightweight sleeping pad. The POWERLIX Ultralight Sleeping Pad weighs less than a pound and a half and folds up compactly to fit inside its easy-to-carry storage bag. When you need it, simply pull it out and inflate it using the convenient inflation bag. When all is said and done, it’s hard to beat.

Pros:

  • The hexagonal air cells support all of your pressure points for supreme comfort
  • Super lightweight and easy to carry
  • Available in several styles and colors
  • The no-leak air valve ensures you stay off the ground all night
  • Insulation and waterproofing provide maximum protection from the elements

Cons:

  • Offers best support with an even distribution of weight, making it less than ideal for side-sleepers

FRETREE Air Sleeping Pad

Lightweight and Convenient

Free up space and hike with ease when you choose this sleeping pad.
Runner Up

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There are many things to love about sleeping pads. The inflation process is not one of them. Usually, you need to blow it up with your mouth or remember to bring a pump. The FRETREE Air Sleeping Pad lets you forego the hassle with its handy stamp-on pump. In between uses, simply fold it up and put it into the included compact carry bag. Overall, this pad saves you time and frustration.

Pros:

  • Can be inflated by mouth, electric pump, or stamp-pump
  • Available in three fun colors to match your style
  • Easily connect more than one for a larger sleep space
  • Quality insulation keeps you warm
  • Specially designed padding is comfortable to sleep on

Cons:

  • Although convenient, the built-in pillow might not measure up to your own

REDCAMP XL Camping Cot Pad

Plush and Soft

Get cozy with this super comfy sleeping pad.
Softest

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Whether you use a folding cot or sleep on the ground, the REDCAMP XL Camping Cot Pad is an excellent choice when you want a good night’s rest. The comfy padding is encased in a super-soft velvet shell that keeps you feeling warm and cozy. Don’t let the softness fool you, though. It is still very easy to keep clean and will prevent any water or dampness from seeping into your sleeping bag or blankets. When your weekend fun is over, simply fold it up and put it in your car.

Pros:

  • Perfect size for foldable cots, making them much more comfortable
  • Available in three colors so you can choose your favorite
  • Oxford fabric on the underside will prevent moisture from getting in
  • When this pad gets dirty, just shake it off and wipe it down for easy cleaning
  • Ideal for side sleepers, tummy sleepers, and back sleepers alike

Cons:

  • The extra coziness means it doesn’t fold up as compactly as inflatables

Better Habitat SleepReady Camping Mattress

Superior Support

Go camping in comfort when you choose this quality memory foam sleeping pad.
Best Memory Foam

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When it comes to sleeping surfaces, memory foam is known for its comfort. In the past, it’s been nearly impossible to get that same comfort while camping. Now, with the Better Habitat SleepReady Camping Mattress, you can take it with you anywhere. This pad rolls up and fits into the included carry bag for easy transport. You can use it on the ground or a cot, making it versatile no matter your setup.

Pros:

  • Available in three sizes to best suit your needs
  • Attached clips for quick closing so you can store it in the included bag
  • Perfect for anyone with pre-existing back or joint issues
  • A waterproof cotton-terry sheet is included for your convenience
  • CertiPUR memory foam is safe and includes no harmful materials

Cons:

  • It is large and a bit hard to carry if you have a long hike to your campsite

Ubon Self-Inflating Double Sleeping Pad

Double Up

Cuddle up and make your trip romantic with this sleeping pad.
Best for Couple

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When you think of camping with your partner, you probably don’t consider how hard it is to find a sleep surface made for two. Choose the Ubon Self-Inflating Double Sleeping Pad and secure yourself some quality romantic real estate. This large sleeping pad is a full 1.5″ thick and includes 2 built-in pillows for your convenience. It self-inflates and deflates, saving you time and energy.

Pros:

  • This pad folds up and fits into a compact carrying case
  • Available in five colors for added fun
  • The materials used are moisture-resistant, safe, and comfortable to sleep on
  • Connect two or more together for even more space
  • Built-in pillows are ergonomically shaped to support your head and neck

Cons:

  • Costs more than the average inflatable sleeping pad, but worth it if a dual-sleeper is a priority

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I use a sleeping pad when I go camping?

Sleeping pads make you more comfortable while sleeping, which can prevent pain and discomfort. They are also good at keeping any moisture from the ground from soaking through to your blankets, clothes, and body. When you use a sleeping pad, you will ultimately enjoy your camping trip more than you would without it.

What type of sleeping pad will work best for me?

The type of sleeping pad you use will be based on your individual needs. For example, if you have a long hike, you will definitely want a compact inflatable with a convenient carrying case. On the other hand, if you can drive to your campsite or have any pre-existing body pain, you will want a plush or foam pad to keep you comfortable and support you better.