If it’s time for a new sleeping bag, the good news is that there are several great sleeping bag brands out there that will turn your camping trip into a sleeping success. But with so many sizes, temperature ratings, and price points, how do you know which one to choose?

Fear not! We have put together a list of the best sleeping bags for camping in 2021.

The Best Sleeping Bags for Camping

1. Western Mountaineering MegaLite

The Western Mountaineering MegaLite sleeping bag has been rated the best of the best by Outdoor Gear Lab. This luxurious, spacious sleeping bag comes with a lofty price tag, but it’s well worth the investment. Shoppers claim it’s the only sleeping bag you’ll ever need. 

Features we like:

• Fabricated with quality, durable materials that are designed to last
• Warmer than 30°F rating
• Spacious and luxurious
• Excellent weight-to-warmth ratio
• Weighs approximately 1.63 lbs

2. Chinook Polar Micro Mummy Down 32-Degree Sleeping Bag

If you’re looking for a sleeping bag that’s a little more budget-friendly, look no further than the Chinook Polar Micro Mummy found on eBay. This is the perfect solution for hikers, backpackers, and mountain bikers that want to walk, hike, or ride to their camping destination and need something compact and lightweight. 

Features we like:

• Insulated with goose feathers for maximum comfort
• 32°F rating
• Ultra-compact and lightweight design
• Made with nylon and polyester

3. Coleman Green Valley Cool Weather Adult Sleeping Bag

If you’re looking for a great sleeping bag, but don’t want to invest some serious cash, then the best option for getting the best bang for your buck is the good, old, reliable Coleman brand. 

The Coleman Green Valley Cool Weather Sleeping Bag is super durable and will keep you cozy even when temperatures dip below freezing. Priced in the $50–$75 range, it’s the perfect starter sleeping bag for those who are still unsure if camping is for them.

Features we like:

• Equipped with a cozy cotton flannel fleece liner for extra comfort
• Accommodates sleepers five feet and 11 inches (and under) in height
• 30°F temperature rating
• Designed with ComfortSmart Technology
• Designed with a unique zipper system that forces fabric away from the zipper to avoid snags and rips
• ThermoLock System reduces heat loss
• Machine washable
• Carry bag included

4. Kelty Cosmic 20 Sleeping Bag

For those who want to break into the backpacking community without breaking the bank, this sleeping bag provides the best of both worlds. The Kelty Cosmic sleeping bag is affordably priced in the $160–$190 range, and also offers many of the same features and quality as some other high-end, competing sleeping bag brands. 

Features we like:

• Extremely durable
• Water-resistant
• Rated for temperatures between 19–30°F 
• Designed with nylon and polyester
• Dual-sliding, anti-snag zipper design
• Comfortable hood help keep the cold out and the heat in
• Carry sack included

5. MILLET LD Baikal 750 Sleeping Bag

The weather can be somewhat unpredictable during the summer months. The occasional rain and thunderstorm can put a damper on any camping trip or outdoor adventure. 

Therefore, if you’re planning a multi-day camping trip, we recommend the Millet LD Baikal. Similar to our other suggestions, it’s lightweight, warm, and also waterproof! Made by the reputable Millet brand, it handles moist weather like a champ.

Features we like:

• Machine washable
• 43°F rating
• Synthetic
• Travel bag included

Turn Sleeping Bag Savings into Nonprofit Donations

Having a good sleeping bag can make or break your adventure or escape into the wilderness. Whether you’re a first-time fern dweller or a seasoned vet of the trails, you can be sure to enjoy your next adventure under the stars in a comfortable sleeping bag. 

You can shop for the best sleeping bags for your next camping trip or backyard camp out while earning cashback to save or donate to a nonprofit of your choice when you shop with Giving Assistant!

Learn how Giving Assistant works. Enjoy discounts and cashback deals to make the best of your summer! Install the Giving Assistant Button today for easy access to deals and savings every time you shop.

See Also:

• Best Sleeping Pad for Car Camping: to Help You a Good Night’s Sleep When Camping
• 10 Best Backpacking Sleeping Pads Reviews
• Best Campfire Grill Grate for Cooking & Grilling

The post Best Sleeping Bags for Camping Review appeared first on Atunity.

If you are looking to enjoy a peaceful night under the stars on a comfortable surface, you came to the right place. We will give you a rundown of some of the best car camping sleeping pads available on the market today.

Benefits Of Car Camping Sleeping Pads

• Comfort. A good-quality sleeping pad cushions the user from all things on the surface. It’s a great substitute for conventional mattresses and offers maximum comfort to both side and stomach sleepers.
• Warmth. One of the most important benefits provided by sleeping pads is the warmth they provide to campers, especially during the cold weather. Though sleeping bags are perceived to be great sources of warmth, an insulated sleeping pad will guarantee that you are not losing heat to the ground.
• Space-friendly. Most sleeping pads are inflatable and can be folded to fit in a backpack. Moreover, a typical sleeping pad could fit in a small vehicle or a one-person tent. Inflatable pads come in a variety of sizes, and it’s easy to find a space-friendly option that’s appropriate for your height. 

Types Of Car Camping Sleeping Pads

Air Pads

Most air pads have reflective or insulating materials to optimize the warmth campers get. This type of sleeping pad needs to be inflated. You could either blow into the valve (it usually takes less than 3 minutes) or use a foot pump. Some models come with a built-in pump that automatically inflates the pump when activated. 

Self-Inflating Sleeping Pads

Self-inflating pads use a combination of air and open-cell foam insulation. When you open the sleeping pad’s valve, air will automatically fill all the chambers. These pads are designed for backpacking and camping and can be folded and rolled up to save on space. Sleeping pads specifically designed for car camping can be rolled up without folding.

Closed-Cell Foam Pads

Closed-cell sleeping pads are made of dense foam that features small closed air cells. In most cases, the pads are folded in Z-formations or rolled up. At a camping site, they can double as sitting pads but are not as comfortable as the other types. They are the most durable of the three types. 

Top Brands

Lightspeed Outdoors

Lightspeed Outdoors is a manufacturer of outdoor gears suitable for people with a passion for adventure. The company was established in 2009 to create durable and easy-to-use outdoor products including beds, bags, chairs, and sleeping pads. It’s headquartered in San Diego and produces some of the best sleeping pads, such as the Lightspeed Outdoors PVC-Free Warmth Series. 

Therm-a-Rest

Therm-a-Rest is an American company that makes outdoor-comfort products such as pillows, sleeping bags, mattresses, and some of the best backpacking sleeping pads.

The company was established in 1971 by John Burroughs, Neil Anderson, and Jim Lea. It’s currently headquartered in Seattle. The Therm-a-Rest RidgeRest Classic and Therm-a-Rest Neoair Uberliteare some of its best sleeping pads for a backpacking trip. 

ALPS Mountaineering

ALPS Mountaineering is an American company that manufactures camping gear. Its products include backpacks, tents, sleeping bags, and car sleeping pads. The company was established by Dennis Brune in 1993. It’s currently headquartered in Missouri. One of its popular air pads is the ALPS Mountaineering Lightweight Series Self-Inflating Air Pad.

Klymit

Klymit is a private innovation company that makes camping gear, such as sleeping bags, pillows, and car camping sleeping pads. The company was founded in 2007 and has grown into a popular brand with top-notch products such as the Outdoorsman Lab Camping Sleeping Pad. The company is headquartered in Centerville, Utah.

Car Camping Sleeping Pad Pricing

• Under $50: This price range includes the cheapest camping mats on the market. They offer just the right amount of comfort and warmth but may not last as long as rival pads in a higher price range.
• $55-$90: Most sleeping pads that offer user-friendly features and value fall within this range. These are self-inflating pads that are durable. They are constructed with comfortable materials that typically don’t make noise as you turn.
• $100 and up: Budget this much for a premium camping sleeping pad made from high-quality and durable materials. The products here offer unparalleled comfort and have non-slip characteristics. Most come with extra features, such as pillows and repair kits.

Key Features

R-Value & Insulation

The R-value is a measure of the pad’s capacity to resist the flow of heat. A pad with a higher R-value will offer you better protection from cold surfaces. Most manufacturers will indicate the R-value or the heat range, and you can use the value to gauge the suitability of the pad depending on the climatic conditions of your camping area.

Weight

Ultra-light products are the best for camping since they are portable and ideal for backpacking trips. To get the best lightweight pads, consider going for a tapered shape that packs smaller by reducing volume, or a closed-cell foam sleeping pad with short lengths. 

Length and Width

You should at least be able to fit your hips and shoulders on the sleeping pad. Regular pads are about 72 inches long, but some stretch out to 78 inches long.

There are shorter pads than that, but they aren’t recommended for winter camping since you will need extra clothing to insulate your legs and feet. Most pads offer a 20-inch width as a standard, but there are larger pads that can go up to 30 inches wide for larger people.

Inflation Style

Sleeping pads often feature high-volume inflation and deflation valves. Some pads have bigger openings that facilitate faster inflation with fewer breaths. Look out for sleeping pads that have separate inflation layers or chambers so you can still use the pad even in situations where one chamber or layer has failed.

Other Considerations

• Pad Surface: If you are a restless sleeper, choose a pad with a brushed-fabric or textured surface. These two types of surfaces will keep you from sliding off the pad at night. They are also quieter.
• Pad Construction: Some pads have side baffles that help protect side sleepers from rolling off when turning. These are especially ideal for kids. Some come with pillow baffles to support your head. The baffle, however, is more of a preference than a requirement.

Best Car Camping Sleeping Pad Reviews and Recommendations

1. Best Overall: Lightspeed Outdoors PVC-Free Warmth Series

The Lightspeed Outdoors PVC-Free Warmth Series is a self-inflating sleeping pad that earns the top spot in our list for its superior quality and comfort. The package comes with an extra pillow for comfort, compression straps that hold down the pad when you fold it, and an oversized carry bag to store the pad. In addition, dual oversize air valves facilitate quick inflation and deflation of the pad.

The sleeping pad is made of PVC-free materials that don’t give off plastic odors that might make your night uncomfortable. Also, the fabric won’t make crinkly noises when you climb on it.

The pad offers the user three sizes to choose from when adjusting its thickness: 1.5, 2, and 3 inches. Each thickness value offers you extra warmth, and the pad stretches out to 77 inches long.

The downside of this sleeping pad is that it takes too long to inflate the first time you use it. It’s also a bit heavy for backpacking as the pad weighs 6.4 pounds, which would be hard to carry around when hiking. Also, the pad is narrow and may feel uncomfortable when used as a sitting pad. 

2. Best Value: Therm-a-Rest RidgeRest Classic

The Therm-a-Rest RidgeRest Classic is a camping sleeping pad that strikes the perfect balance between quality and affordability. This pad has a closed-cell foam design that results in a light durable pad. The pad only weighs 19 ounces and measures 77 inches long. You can easily fold and fit this pad in a backpack as it has a lightweight and compact profile. 

The pad comes with an almost indestructible cross-linked polyethylene material that acts as a shock absorber and protects you from sharp rocks, roots, and other objects on the sleeping surface. Moreover, it has a 2.6 R-value, which makes it a great fit for sleeping outside in the fall, summer, and spring. Also, the pad has anti-slip dots that prevent the pad from moving around when you are sleeping.

The Therm-a pad’s main drawback is that it is not the warmest pad, and you may need to purchase an extra sleeping bag if you are camping in cooler regions. Also, the pad doesn’t even out on a rough surface; that may leave you with backaches. The stiffness of the pad also sacrifices comfort. 

3. Honorable Mention: ALPS Mountaineering Lightweight Series Self-Inflating Air Pad

The ALPS Mountaineering Lightweight Series deserves an honorable mention in the best camping mats list due to its dual inflatable pads. You could fold it and use it as a single thick sleeping pad or unfold it and create ample room for one more person.

The pads also detach from each other, allowing you to use both pads separately. This feature is enabled by the hook-and-loop Velcro connection running between the two pads.

The manufacturer designed this product with a high R-value to make the pad warm and ideal for all seasons. When folded, the R-value increases by a factor of two, which makes it one of the best pads for cooler regions. The pad weighs 9 pounds, has a maximum length of 75 inches, and the width measures 47 inches as a double unit.

The only drawbacks are weight and the outer layer covering. If you are looking for an ultra-lightweight pad for your backpacking and car camping trips, this pad might not be the best as they are heavy.

Moreover, the sack is rather poor in quality and may need to be replaced after a few months of use. Despite the flaws, the pad is suitable for couples looking to camp together with the convenience of one large sleeping pad.

4. Honorable Mention: Outdoorsman Lab Sleeping Pad for Camping

Choose from blue, green, or orange for your sleeping pad color. This ultra-light pad weighs 14.5 ounces and rolls up to a compact 8-by-3-inch size. When expanded, it measures 73 by 22 by 2.2 inches. It has an R-value of 2.2, which makes it warm enough for use in temperatures down to 40 degrees Fahrenheit.

What’s nice about this sleeping pad is how easy it is to set up. You can blow it up in 10 to 15 breaths. Give it a few more puffs for extra firmness. Deflating it is just as easy with the rubber seal that can be moved out of the way to create a “leak” for quick air expulsion.

Unfortunately, the pad can easily spring a leak. While it does come with a patch kit, there’s not enough patch material to cover all of the holes it can develop. Some people may not find it thick enough to provide adequate support.

5. FRETREE Camping Air Sleeping Pad

This sleeping mat comes in green, navy, and royal blue. It’s constructed of heavy-duty 40D nylon that’s both waterproof and damp-proof. It can support up to 660 pounds.

When fully inflated, it measures 94.5 by 28.5 by 2.7 inches. One end of the mat has a built-in pillow chamber to give you extra comfort while lying on it. The bottom of the mat has an anti-slip coating to enable you to sleep anywhere.

You’ll like using this mat because it comes with an easy-to-use foot pump for inflating it. It can reach full inflation in 25 seconds. It’s just as fast to deflate with the quick-release valve. You can also link two mats together to create the size of a twin bed.

The downside of this mat is that it’s not very good at holding air and can deflate during use. The pillow chamber is also an awkward size, which can make lying on it uncomfortable.

Tips 

• Always place your sleeping pad at the top of your luggage. Most people tend to put the pad at the bottom of the backpack, which is not a good idea since the first thing people do when they reach their destination is to drop their luggage. You won’t want the pad to be at the bottom just in case there is a pointy twig or thorn.
• Wash the camping sleeping pad after every camping trip. Insect repellent is one of the things that you need to clean off the pad because most contain DEET, a compound that can compromise the integrity of synthetic fabrics. Awash after camping will also get rid of pine sap, mold, and body oils that can affect the performance and reduce the lifespan.
• Keep your pad away from direct sunlight. For self-inflating foam pads, leave them semi-inflated, as this is good for air circulation and the longevity of the foam. Air pads should be hung in the closet, and don’t form a habit of folding them along the same crease line. It may weaken the pad. 
• Always carry repair kits for air pads. The smallest holes can compromise your comfort. Knowing how to repair minor damages will go a long way in making your camping trip comfortable in case of a puncture.

FAQs

Q: Why is my sleeping pad losing air every time I lay on it?

A: If your sleeping pad is losing air, and you have confirmed that there are no tears on the fabric, then the issue must be with the valve. The valve may malfunction due to normal wear and tear or unintended pressure that destroys the valve. Most pads support metal and plastic valve replacements where you can buy a replacement kit from the manufacturer in case your valve malfunctions. 

Q: What is a loft pocket and how does it work?

A: Loft pockets are voids that are strategically placed in the body of the pad to allow your sleeping bag to expand in this space for optimum thermal benefits. This design is important for people camping in colder regions. Apart from thermal benefits, these pockets also improve comfort.

Q: Is it OK to use the sleeping pad inside a sleeping bag?

A: Many people do it without damaging the bag, so yes. One of the benefits you could get is maximum insulation. Restless and side sleepers can also enjoy the fact that the pad limits your movement inside the sleeping bag. 

Final Thoughts

The best car camping mattress that combines value, superior quality, and comfort is the Lightspeed Outdoors PVC-Free Warmth.

Therm-a-Rest RidgeRest Classic Foam Camping Sleeping Pad is the best camping sleeping pad for campers looking for a budget pad that does not compromise on quality.

The post Best Sleeping Pad for Car Camping: to Help You a Good Night’s Sleep When Camping appeared first on Atunity.

This is a big win for backpackers because you can now compare the warmth provided by pads made from different manufacturers. Therm-a-Rest, REI, Sea-to-Summit, NEMO, Exped, and Big Agnes has released air mattresses and sleeping pads with the new R-values.

See this comprehensive list of the latest Sleeping Pad R-values from all of these manufacturers, including a comparison of their old ratings and the new R-value ratings.

While the R-value of a sleeping pad is important, particularly in cooler weather it’s best to also consider its weight, durability, size, thickness, comfort, and price.

Here are our picks for the best 10 sleeping pads available today based on these dimensions. Many of these sleeping pads are available in different lengths, widths, and weights, making it easy to find a good choice to fit your needs.

1. Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite

The NeoAir XLite is the most popular inflatable sleeping pad sold today and for good reason. It packs up small and flat, taking up little room in a backpack. The XLite is 2.5 inches thick, providing plenty of comfort for side sleepers and back sleepers, with an R-value of 4.2 making it one of the best 3-season pads available.

The XLite is available in a variety of widths and lengths, with the 72″ x 20″ regular size weighing in at just 12 oz. The XLite also comes with an inflation sack that can be used as a stuff sack.

2. Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm

The NeoAir XTherm is nearly identical to the NeoAir XLite but has more insulation and a tougher cover fabric for greater dependability in cold weather and winter. It also packs up small and flat, taking up little room in a backpack, despite having more insulation.

The R-Value of 6.9 will keep you warm down to 40 below zero F, while the inflatable 2.5 inch thick pad provides plenty of cushion for side sleepers. The NeoAir XTherm is available in a variety of widths and lengths with the 72″ x 20″ regular mummy size weighing in at just 15 oz. The XTherm also comes with an inflation sack that can be used as a stuff sack.

3. Sea-to-Summit Ether Light XT Insulated Pad

The Sea To Summit Ether Light XT Insulated Sleeping Pad has extra thick 4″ air sprung cells provide excellent comfort for side and back sleepers. ThermoLite synthetic insulation and a platinum liner reflect warmth back to you to minimize radiant heat loss.

A flat valve makes it quick to inflate and deflate, and a combination stuff sack/air pump is included for ease of use. The Ether Light has an R-Value of 3.2, making it suitable for three-season use, while a size regular (72″ x 20″) weighs in at 15 oz. Multiple sizes are available.

4. NEMO Tensor Insulated Air Pad

The NEMO Tensor Insulated Air Pad strikes an excellent balance between low weight and comfort. Three inches thick, it provides plenty of clearance for the bony hips of side sleepers, but rolls up flat and surprisingly small when deflated. While it contains internal reflective layers like Therm-a-Rest’s NeoAir pads, it’s noticeably quieter and not crinkly sounding.

Weighing just 15 ounces in a size regular (72″ x 20″), the Tensor has an R-value of 3.5, making it suitable for 3-season use. The Tensor Insulated pad is available in a wide range of lengths and widths, including a 9 0z short 48″ mummy which is ideal for ultralight backpacking. An inflation sack is included.

5. NEMO Tensor Alpine Air Pad

The NEMO Tensor Alpine is a four-season insulated sleeping pad that lightweight enough that it can be used year-round. With an R-value of 4.8, the Tensor Alpine is 3 inches thick and insulated with 3 layers of aluminum film much like Therm-a-Rest’s NeoAir pads but far quieter without any crinkly sounds to disturb your tent partner.

A low profile flat valve provides rapid inflation, deflation, and micro-adjustments so you can fine-tune the inflation firmness. Weighing just 17 oz, the Tensor Alpine includes an inflation sack for rapid deployment.

6. Big Agnes Insulated Q-Core SLX Sleeping Pad

The Big Agnes Insulated Q Core SLX is a super comfy, lightweight inflatable sleeping pad, that’s 3.5 inches thick with 4.25 inch side baffles to keep you centered on the pad. With an R-value of 3.2, the Q-Core SLX is covered with a luxurious quilted top with flat valves for increased durability and rapid deflation.

Insulated with Primaloft Silver, the pad is very quiet compared to pads insulated with reflective foil and includes an inflation sack for rapid inflation. A regular-sized (72″ x 20″) Insulated Q Core SLX weighs 18 oz, but the pad is also available in a very wide variety of lengths and widths.

7. Sea-to-Summit Ultralight Insulated Pad

The Sea To Summit Ultralight Insulated Sleeping Pad has 2″ thick air-sprung cells that adapt to a sleeper’s curves like the mattress of their bed at home, providing excellent comfort for side and back sleepers.

Flat valves make it quick to inflate and deflate, and a combination stuff/air pump is included for ease of use. The Ultralight has an R-Value of 3.1, making it suitable for three-season use, while a size regular (72″ 20″) weighs in at 16.9 oz. Multiple sizes are also available.

8. Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol Foam Pad

The Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol is an ultralight, inexpensive, and virtually indestructible foam sleeping pad, making it a favorite among ultralight backpacking fanatics and parents alike. Made with closed-cell foam, it folds up into accordion-like sections making it easy to carry and attach to the outside of a backpack.

One side has an aluminized reflective coating with radiates your body heat back at you.  With an R-Value of 2.0, the Z Lite Sol is a good warm weather sleeping pad. A size regular (72″ x 20″) weighs 14 oz, but it’s also available in multiple sizes. You can also trim a foam Z Lite Sol with scissors to shave off gear weight.

9. NEMO Switchback Foam Pad

The NEMO Switchback is folding accordion-shaped closed-cell foam pad with a reflective coating, like the Therm-a-rest Z Lite Sol. The only real difference between the two is that the Switchback folds up slightly smaller when folded up. 

A size regular (72″ x 20″) weighs 14.5 oz, and has an R-value of 2. Like the Z Lite Sol, you can cut a Switchback up to save gear weight or reshape it for a specific purpose. Price Range: $40-$50.

10. Exped FlexMat Plus Foam Pad

The Exped FlexMat Plus is a 1.5″ thick folding closed-cell foam sleeping pad with an R-value of 2.2. While it is slightly heavier than the comparable NEMO Switchback and Therm-a-Rest Z Lite foam sleeping pads, it’s substantially thicker more comfortable for side and back sleepers. 

If you’d given up on closed-cell foam sleeping pads because they’re too thin and uncomfortable, you might want to try out the 1.5? thick FlexMat Plus a try. The size regular (72″ x 20.5″ x 1.5″ ) pad weighs 17.6 oz. Multiple sizes are also available or you can easily trim the size you need with a pair of scissors.

Backpacking Sleeping Pad Guide

Choosing a sleeping pad requires prioritizing across multiple factors, some of which can be at odds with one another.

Sleeping Pad Thickness

Thicker sleeping pads are often more comfortable for side sleepers because they provide more cushioning under the hip bones. Depending on their length and width, it may take more breaths to inflate a very thick air pad, something to factor into your decision.

Sleeping Pad Dimensions

Most popular sleeping pads are available a wide range of lengths and widths. While large pads are often more comfortable, they’re often heavier. Most pads are available in a standard 72″ x 20″ size. But many pads are also available in longer, shorter, and wider sizes, or mummy and rectangular shapes.

Sleeping Pad Weight

A sleeping pad is one of the most important items on your gear list in terms of comfort and sleep insulation. While the weight of all backpacking gear matters, don’t make the mistake of being miserable at night by choosing a pad that compromises the quality of your sleep, simply to reduce the weight of your gear list.

For example, most sleeping bag and quilt temperature ratings assume that you’re sleeping on a pad with an R-value between 4.0 and 5.0. If you sleep with a pad that has a lower R-value, even in summer, you probably won’t be able to experience the full temperature rating of your sleep insulation. That’s a sobering thought.

Sleeping Pad Compactness

The size and compactness of a sleeping pad can be an important fact depending on your style of packing and the size of your backpack. Inflatable pads usually pack up smallest, self-inflating pads are usually larger, and foam pads are the largest.

Depending on how you pack,  foam sleeping pads may need to be attached to the outside of your backpack because they’re so large. While closed-cell foam pads don’t absorb water if they get wet, you’ll want to dry one off before you put a sleeping bag or quilt on top of it, after a wet day on the trail.

Sleeping Pad Types

There are three types of sleeping pads: air mattress, self-inflating mattresses, and closed-cell foam pads. Air mattresses provide the greatest comfort and pack up the smallest when deflated.

Most come with a lightweight stuff sack that can be used to inflate them. Self-inflating mattress are usually the heaviest and will up partially with air when unrolled for use.

You still have to blow them up a bit, but only a minor amount. Closed-cell foam pads are the least expensive but they are bulky have to be attached to the exterior of your pack. They are very reliable however because they’re made with foam so they can’t be punctured and they’re waterproof, so they won’t get heavier if it rains.

Sleeping Pad R-Values

The most reliable measure of insulation is R-value. Beginning in 2020, a new Sleeping Bag R-Value Standard was adopted by the outdoor industry and most of the major sleeping pad manufacturers including Therm-a-Rest, NEMO, Sea-to-Summit, REI, and Big Agnes has retested and re-rated their sleeping bags using it. Klymit, notably, has not.

This new standard benefits consumers because it makes it possible, for the first time, to compare sleeping bags by their R-values because they all use the same testing methodology.

For three-season backpacking and camping, an R-value of 2, or higher, is recommended. For winter backpacking and camping, an R-value of 5, or higher, is recommended.

R-values are additive, so you can stack two pads to increase your warmth level. Women need higher R-values pads because they have lower body mass than men. An additional R-value of 1 is usually a good hedge for women and other cold sleepers

Sleeping Pad Durability

Foam sleeping pads are the most durable, self-inflating pads are the next most durable, and inflatable air mattresses the least. Inflatable air mattresses pads tend to fail in two places: the valves and at the seams of fabric. Flat valves that are flush with the surface of the sleeping pad are more durable than stick valves because they have no moving parts and can’t catch on obstructions.

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