The best Self-Inflating Camping Pads: Reddit reviews

From 3.5 billion Reddit comments

I am a wilderness photographer, and I have spent more nights in my Xterra than you would ever believe. I'm also a veteran ultralight long-distance backpacker, so when it comes to figuring out how to sleep outside, you'd be hard-pressed to find someone who has done it more than me. I've tried everything from cheap WalMart inflatable mattresses to super expensive backpacking sleeping pads & everything in between. After more trial and error than you'd want to read, I have settled on this:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07RY47PFS/

Like I said, I've tried literally everything, and this thing has turned out to be the champ. Ridiculously high R-Value of 9.6 means you'll never be cold. And it's not a foot thick like a typical air mattress, so you won't be up against the roof when you sleep.

I have a Klymit Insulated Static V. Was on sale for $45 on an Amazon deal of the day once so I picked it up. Pretty happy with it. Not sure what an additional 150 would bring to the table other than perhaps less weight or more insulation.

I also have the Static V and it's been great. No deflation overnight and it's super comfortable. It performs just as well as expensive ($100-$200) sleeping pads like the Nemo Cosmo (which I borrowed from someone before I bought the Klymit).

I got mine for $44 but it's only $37 on Amazon right now!

This one has suited me very well for a couple seasons both in the hammock and on the ground.

Klymit Insulated Static V Sleeping Pad, Lightweight, 2.5 Inches Thick, Sleep Comfort for Backpacking, Cold Weather Camping and Hiking, Inflatable Camping Mattress https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B07YP8TFJB/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_NEE1DHXRJ93J6MWKV3P9?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

Trekology on Amazon has really comfortable sleeping pads. The one catch is they are NOT warm. I don't think that it would be warm enough to go below about 40f. If you inflate it just enough to keep your hip from hitting the ground/cot it s a really nice nights sleep. The pillow is nice too.

https://www.amazon.com/Trekology-Camping-Mat-Sleeping-Mattress/dp/B07N4KK854?ref_=ast_sto_dp

It seems to be $53 on Amazon and $60 for your link? Am I looking at a different one?

So sorry, I just double checked it and it went back up to $41, I actually bought it last week because I was so surprised by the decent price on the static v. I’ll send the link anyways, I think amazon has a deal with Klymit because I do see their pas go on deal sales every once in awhile.

Klymit Static V Lightweight Sleeping Pad, Green/Char Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007RFG0NM/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_tai_-3tOCbN53MRCT

Since weight isn't your biggest concern, I have a Klymit insulated static V and while not the lightest it's very reasonably priced compared to an Xtherm and comfortable at 2.5" thick. Currently going for $52 on Amazon, R value 4.4 and 25 oz, or the 'lite' version which is 19 oz and going for $75

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00ANRW7DI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_kcBwyb9FMZQG5

This is the sleeping pad I bought (lived in the US at the time), you have to blow it up yourself though and it’s a bit over budget. I’ve had it a couple years now and love it.

Klymit Static V Lightweight Sleeping Pad https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BZ3C900/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_KXRhFb2HH5Y6M

I got this ALPS Mountaineering sleeping pad from amazon. Its self-inflating and very reasonably comfortable. A 12v fan is also nearly essential for muggy summer nights. Lastly, these window socks are awesome in that they let you keep your windows down without bugs getting in.

There's an Ultralite version of that pad now too. 15.9 ounces versus 19.6 ounces for the Lite version or 25 ounces for the standard version. $95 right now on Amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/Klymit-Insulated-V-Ultralite-SL/dp/B074WG9QM3

I just got the Klymit Insulated V Ultralite SL, this one here. It arrived yesterday.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B074WG9QM3/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I'm new to backpacking and didn't want to spend $200 on an insulated pad. We mostly camp 3 seasons too but I like to camp late fall/early spring and in the Carolinas in the mountains it can dip into the 20's (and sometimes the teens if up in higher elevations).

I took a nice nap on it yesterday, it's really comfy once you get the perfect amount of air let out after inflating. I was using with an inexpensive Teton bag I picked up also on Amazon and with the Klymit "X" pillow, which is nice.

The material on both the pillow/pad is really thin but it seems to be made out of a pretty durable woven material. The UL pad comes in at just under 1 LB and with 4.4 R Value, won't get super cold. I think the higher R-Value is great since the weight also stays low. I don't think you will get too hot at all, I would definitely get an insulated pad unless you plan to buy more than one.

Pad I listed comes in JUST under $100 ($95), comes with a patch kit, and has a limited lifetime warranty if purchased new from Klymit. Honestly I am pretty impressed with their stuff so far.

BTW what quilt did you go with? My bag is pretty cheap, bulky (synthetic fill) and weighs 4.1 lb (ouch). I just got my wife a Kelty Cosmic 22 degree womens bag which is under 3 lb sinc she wants to hike fairly light, but I really want to find a nice sub 2-3 lb insulated bag or quilt and most bags in my temp/weight desired range are $200+.

EDIT: just saw you listed your quilt, looking now :) EDIT #2: just saw they currently have a 6-7 week lead time which won't help me for my trip in 2.5 weeks :(

Another option is to get an inflatable camping sleeping pad. I own this one https://www.amazon.com/Klymit-Static-Lightweight-Sleeping-Green/dp/B007RFG0NM/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?ie=UTF8&qid=1533220749&sr=8-1-spons&keywords=static+v&psc=1 Its on sale right now on amazon. I bought mine for backpacking, its super small and lightweight (packs down to the size of a big burrito) and to me its as comfortable as an air mattress, or even more because it doesn't sag throughout the night. It is skinny so if you roll around in the night its not for you, but I sleep like a rock at burning man and its perfect for me.

I use an older Klymit Insulated Static V with my 20° backcountry bed. Fits nicely. Amazon says I bought it in 2016 so it has held together for some time with frequent use.

I just recently picked up the Insulated Static V and I've used it for a few nights so far. I contemplated the Luxe, but I felt that the extra potential comfort was not worth the weight. Personally I would say Luxe for car camping and Lite for backpacking, but buying both is kind of a waste of money. I slept comfortably on the normal Static V, but I am also 21, 5' 10", and not picky about my sleeping conditions quite yet so my personal experience so far may not be what you experience. Hope my input helps you make a decision!

I just use this on top of the regular mattress and it's amazingly comfy, and just crazy stupid warm.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07RY47PFS/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I will always recommend the Klymit Static V sleeping pad. I have the luxe insulated (for the wide) version but the standard one is on Amazon for $36 right now.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007RFG0NM/ref=cm_sw_r_apa_i_yrIMEbJ6VRTXA

I've slept on mine for 7-10 nights, I'm 330lbs, and I don't touch the ground when side sleeping. I LOVE this thing.

Tent camping? Get a decent three seasons tent, maybe even try to find a four seasons tent. I like using a z fold or roll out pad with This insulated sleeping pad. I also use the REI trailback 20 sleeping bag. You will want to get a sleeping bag rated to lower than the lowest temp. Remember sleeping pads aren't just for comfort. They keep you warm by separating you from the ground.

For clothes pack warm, thicker hoodies, light jackets, pants, merino wool socks.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07YP8TFJB/

Klymit Static V Insulated Sleeping Pad = $58.33
Klymit V Sheet for your Static V Sleeping Pad = $39.90
Klymit Pillow X Inflatable Camping & Travel Pillow = $25.62

If you're backpacking try this sleeping pad it's the only thing that lets me sleep on my side https://www.amazon.com/Insulated-Sleeping-Lightweight-Backpacking-Inflatable/dp/B07YP8TFJB/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?gclid=Cj0KCQjw2MWVBhCQARIsAIjbwoORECDIX-PsPBQAllENZlp7obfPyOE77NHgvtd5xM6Ss5Y7_Yu6kcgaArNZEALw_wcB&hvadid=410016570856&hvdev=c&h...

Otherwise if you're car camping air mattress is great.

It'll change your life the Wellex Pad I sleep more comfy on that then any other pad and it rolls up to a decent size.

These are less than $40 and are light and sturdy - have two, still holding air for 2+ years now: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07N4KK854/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

This is the one I have. It's great but not necessarily ul. Klymit Insulated Static V Sleeping Pad, Lightweight, 2.5 Inches Thick, Sleep Comfort for Backpacking, Cold Weather Camping and Hiking, Inflatable Camping Mattress https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07YP8TFJB/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_N3K44J9SKYNZ0645N68N

We bought the Wellax self inflating pads and really liked them for car camping.

WELLAX Sleeping Pad - Foam Camping Mats, Fast Air Self-Inflating 3 Inches Insulated Durable Mattress for Backpacking, Traveling and Hiking - Ultrathick All-Weather Foam Pad with Build in Pillow https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B07RY47PFS/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_1YGT0DXFMJAXER35A8V7?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

I would get a sleeping pad like this one they’re really easy to inflate and travel with it can easily fit inside a backpack

If your climate never gets below freezing then you don't need these.

Closed cell foam pads are cheap and light and bombproof but very bulky. Also have no setup time and a multitude of alternative uses. Some people find them uncomfortable. I linked to a solid quality namebrand but there are a lot $15 generic options like the thin blue pads in any bigbox camping store.

Inflatable pads are expensive when they are insulated but very compact. Takes time to set up and tear down. (With a group it is a good idea to bring a battery powered inflator.) Also vulnerable to springing leaks. Avoid the uninsulated versions even though they are very inexpensive. Look for an R Value of at at least 3. These will be at least $60 and the serious ultralight backpacking versions are $150-$200.

This is what I have, it is waterproof and easy to clean. I'm not very strong tbh and I can roll it up and fit it back in the bag in 5 minutes. It fits for sleeping in my car and in my tent very comfortably. A cot sized or rv bunk bed sheet would work on it if you want one but it's soft enough that I don't bother personally. 😁😁😁

WELLAX Sleeping Pad - Self-Inflating 3 Inches Camping Mattress for Backpacking, Traveling, Hiking and Camping - UltraThick All-Weather Foam Pad, Insulated Mat with Build in Pillow https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07RY47PFS/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_2N39HM8F58J4RVBFEDQ9?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

We are indeed. I got the one without wings. My plan was to have something more versatile that would be an additional layer should my UQ not be enough, but can also serve me on the tent floor.

Klymit Insulated Static V Sleeping Pad, Lightweight, 2.5 Inches Thick, Sleep Comfort for Backpacking, Cold Weather Camping and Hiking, Inflatable Camping Mattress https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B07YP8TFJB/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_Z8RYDPPPYRK7S04EC62B?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1 This is the one I got. The price fluctuate if you watch them. Then you buy the dip.

I got a couple of these sleeping pads off Amazon a couple years ago. They are great for car camping. Light enough to carry, although they are bulky when rolled up.

WELLAX UltraThick FlexFoam Sleeping Pad - Self-Inflating 3 Inches Camping Mat for Traveling, Hiking and Camping - Cold Weather Sleeping Pad for Camping https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07RY47PFS/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_DK8N9ZVBVVM069J6XTZB?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

Sleeping pads.

R-value of 2.1 That means she'll be warm from the ground down to about the low 30's. Weighs a little less than a pound.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07FP4Z3RZ/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_PTKWER3WCP5PQQYEME18?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

R-value 4.1. Good to about low 20's. Weighs about 25 ounces. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07YP8TFJB/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_K1W2KF8P95WKZC8TCSE7?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1