Choosing A Backpacking Sleeping Pad
A good night’s sleep is essential to enjoying your time on the trail but shopping for a backpacking sleeping pad can be a daunting task. Much like choosing a mattress for your bed at home, it can be difficult to know which option is best for you without sleeping on it for a few nights first. This post will explore the three different types of sleeping pads available to backpackers. We will identify some of the pros and cons of each type and give examples of popular models currently on the market.
Closed Cell Foam Sleeping Pads
These pads are made of dense closed cell foam. They usually either roll up or fold accordion-style. Some pads have a smooth foam surface. Others are ridged or have a egg crate texture.
Pros: Closed cell foam sleeping pads are virtually indestructible and if damaged they remain functional. Foam pads are also very affordable when compared to other types of pads, making them a great option for new backpackers or those on a tight budget. Because of their durability, foam pads also have potential to be multi-use items. Many hikers use their foam sleeping pads as seats in camp or during breaks on trail.
Cons: Foam pads can be very large and bulky. If you have a closed cell foam pad it most likely will not fit inside your pack and will need to be strapped to the outside. Foam pads are also not the most comfortable option for many hikers. Side sleepers, in particular, may find that the thin layer of foam does not offer enough padding.
Popular options for backpackers choosing to sleep on a closed cell foam sleeping pad include:
Self-Inflating Sleeping Pads
Self-inflating sleeping pads are made of open cell foam covered with fabric. When the valve on a self-inflating pad is opened, air enters the pad and the foam expands. You will probably need to blow a few breaths of air into the pad to achieve your desired firmness. When it is time to repack your self-inflating pad open the valve and roll up the pad, compressing the foam and forcing out the air. Close the valve again before trying to put the pad in it’s stuff sack so that the foam stays compressed and the pad doesn’t try to self-inflate inside your pack!
Pros: The foam layer in self-inflating pads is generally thicker than open cell foam pads, making them a more comfortable option for many hikers. Self-inflating sleeping pads also tend to be well insulated. In addition, very little mouth inflation is needed to fill self-inflating pads.
Cons: Self-inflating pads are less durable than closed cell foam pads and a puncture on trail means that you will not be able to inflate the pad. Many hikers sleeping on self-inflating or air pads carry a patch kit for on-trail repairs. Self-inflating pads can also be quite bulky. Depending on the pad you choose, it may need to be attached to the outside of your pack where it could be susceptible to damage.
Popular self-inflating sleeping pad options for backpackers include:
Sea To Summit UltraLight Self-Inflating
Inflatable Air Sleeping Pads
Inflatable air pads are exactly what they sound like. They function similarly to a standard air mattress but are designed to be packable and light enough for backpacking. Air pads have features such as valve type and baffle design that vary significantly between brands and models.
Pros: Inflatable air sleeping pads can be extremely lightweight and compact. Some ultralight models weigh less than a pound and pack down smaller than your water bottle. In addition, the lack of foam means that air sleeping pads can increase in thickness without increasing in weight. This makes them a very comfortable option for many hikers.
Cons: Like, self-inflating pads, inflatable pads are useless if punctured. Care should be taken to avoid damage and it may be wise to carry a patch kit. Some hikers do not like having to inflate their pad by mouth. There are also concerns about moisture from your breath accumulating inside of the pad and leading to ice in freezing conditions or mold growth in warm conditions. Solutions to this problem include pads with built in pumps and separate pumps and inflators that can be purchased. (Some bag-style inflators even double as stuff sacks.) Finally, some air-filled sleeping pads can be noisy if you move around in your sleep. This may be an issue if you are a light sleeper or camp with someone who is.
Some popular air sleeping pads for backpackers include:
Klymit Insulated Static V Lite
Sea To Summit Ultralight Insulated
Other Factors To Consider When Choosing A Sleeping Pad
Insulation
Manufacturers give sleeping pads an r-value (usually a number between one and ten) based on how well the pad stops the transfer of heat. Pads with a higher r-value will do a better job of protecting you from the cold ground. Be sure to check the r-value of sleeping pads to ensure that the one you choose is appropriate for the conditions in which you intend to camp. If you are unsure about how much insulation you need or if you tend to sleep cold it may be wise to go with a slightly higher r-value. In a sleeping pad, higher r-value may cost you a bit of weight but, because the insulation is beneath your body, it won’t cause you to be too warm like a jacket or sleeping bag might.
Sleeping Bag Compatibility
If you have a sleeping bag with an integrated pad sleeve, be sure to check sleeping pad measurements. Most standard pads will work with most standard bags but it is certainly worth your time to double check.
Size
Many sleeping pads come in a variety of sizes including short, long, wide, regular, long wide, etc. Check the measurements to find the size that works for you. Some backpackers opt for a shorter pad to save weight. If your legs hang off the end you can put your pack or clothing beneath them to give a little bit of insulation.
Do you have any questions about choosing the correct backpacking sleeping pad? Any suggestions for backpackers shopping for a new pad? Leave a comment below!
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