Best Sleep Pad

If you are concerned about having a comfortable sleep pad while camping in a tent, this blog will help you choose the best sleep pad for your needs.

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I can't sleep just anywhere. Although I enjoy sleeping under the stars, it isn't worth the discomfort of a poor sleep pad. Our family of seven has tested multiple sleep pads over the last five years of travel.

Below is a breakdown of the sleep pads we've loved and the best options for car camping, backpacking, or traveling abroad.

5 Years of Testing Sleep Pads

While we live in our RV when in the USA, we've also flown with only backpacks and tents to camp in amazing places like Hawaii, New Zealand, Germany, Norway, and Ireland.

This past year, we've often chosen not to road trip with our RV. Instead, we load our truck with camping gear and seek adventure and epic camping destinations.

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A Comfortable Sleep Pad Matters

When we fly to places like Hawaii or New Zealand, we prefer a slightly heavier sleeping pad since we won't be hiking with it and can check it in our luggage.

For our backpacking trip around the Tour du Mont Blanc in France, we chose the lightest sleep pads possible due to the steep and challenging terrain.

When we drive to camp on the BLM lands in Idaho, Utah, and Colorado, size and weight are less critical, so we bring our most comfortable sleep pads.

Quick Links to Our Favorite Sleep Pads

What to Look for In a Sleep Pad

Consider what purpose your sleep pad will serve. While it's not as profound as your life's purpose, Nomads With a Purpose is going to challenge you to think about your sleep pad's purpose too.

This consideration is crucial when buying a sleep pad. A suitable sleep pad for backpacking may not be the best choice for car camping. Fortunately, I've compiled a list of sleep pads tailored to different adventures.

Consider Weight, R-Value, Thickness, Pack Size, Length, Width, Shape, Repair Kit, Noise, Gender, and Price when purchasing a sleep pad.

• Weight: Heavier sleeping pads are usually thicker and comfier. For car camping, the weight isn’t a concern, but for backpacking, lighter is better.
• R-Value: R-Value measures heat retention, ranging from 2 to 5.5+. A higher number means better insulation for colder temperatures.
• Thickness: Thicker pads sound appealing but may not always be comfier. They tend to be heavier and pricier.
• Pack Size: Ideally, you want a sleeping pad that packs small without sacrificing functionality. Durability and warmth come at a cost.
• Length, Width, and Shape: Always check the size before ordering. Sleep pads come in rectangular and mummy shapes, with mummy belts offering better heat retention.
• Repair Kit: Some pads include repair kits, but the durable mats we recommend can usually withstand wear and tear.
• Noise: Opt for a quieter pad if you're a restless sleeper to avoid disturbing others.
• Gender: Sleeping pads are often male, female, or unisex shaped, affecting comfort for different body shapes.
• Price: A good sleeping pad typically costs around $100.

Best Backpacking Sleep Pad: NEMO Tensor Sleeping Pad

For backpacking, choose a sleep pad that is both lightweight and comfortable.

I've often selected a thin but light sleep mat and faced discomfort. However, it's critical not to carry a heavy mattress as a sleep pad.

Consider the time of year you plan to use the pad. This is where the R-value comes into play. If temperatures will plummet at night, aim for a higher R-value.

If freezing temperatures aren't expected, a 3-season sleep pad like the NEMO Tensor is suitable.

The NEMO Tensor is extremely lightweight and compact, making it ideal for backpacking. It has a 1.6 R-value, perfect for summer use. It's comfortable and soft.

For cold temperatures, there's an insulated version that increases the R-value by 1.9 for just an additional $20. The packed size remains unchanged! This mat is available in long wide, regular wide, and regular mummy.

NEMO has also introduced a new model, the Cosmo 3D, designed for restless sleepers or uneven terrains, which features a foot pump. It's slightly larger than the original Tensor but significantly warmer. If you easily get cold, the Cosmo 3D might be your best option; otherwise, the lightweight Tensor is ideal.

After several years of use, I had to use the repair kit once due to a slow leak, but it worked perfectly, and the patch has held up well since.

This is an excellent sleep pad for backpacking and summer camping. It is soft and cool, making it perfect for any backpacking adventure.

NEMO Sleep Pad Specs:

• Weight: 13 oz.
• Pack Size: 3 x 8 in
• Dimensions: 72 x 20 x 3 inches
• R-Value: 1.6
• Repair Kit: Yes
• Self-Inflating: No
• Price: $140-160

Links to Purchase a NEMO Sleep Pad:

The REI Camp Bed was perfect for our trip to Hawaii.

If you don’t need to carry your pad up a mountain and just toss it in the car, I have the perfect option for you.

The REI Camp Bed is the most comfortable sleep pad I've ever used!

It is wide, thick, and warm, providing maximum comfort on the ground without needing an air mattress.

I love the ability to stretch out comfortably. Its cushy feel makes it heavy, so it isn’t the best option for backpacking, but it works great for car camping!

While it's quite bulky when packed, it's still worth it for our trip to Hawaii!

Additionally, this mat is very durable and comes in XL size. My oldest son even sleeps on it every night in our RV.

This sleep mat is the closest alternative to a mattress. If you want a sleeping mat for car camping or are a larger person seeking comfort, this is the mat for you.

REI Camp Bed Specs:

• Weight: 3 lb. 10 oz.
• Pack Size: 5.5 x 26 in
• Dimensions: 72 x 25 x 2.5 in
• Repair Kit: No
• R-Value: 7.6
• Self Inflating: Yes
• Price: $100-120

Links to Purchase a REI Camp Bed

Best Multipurpose Sleep Pad: Sea To Summit Comfort Light SI Sleep Pad

The Women's Comfort Sea to Summit Sleeping Pad is ideal for international travel and short backpacking trips.

This foam-based mat is softer than an air mat. I took it on our Hawaii camping trip, and it was ideal. Although it was slightly large for my bag, it significantly improved my tent camping experience.

This mat is suitable for both cool and warm weather camping. I appreciate that it's designed for women with narrower shoulders and a wider hip and knee area, as well as Comfort Warmth Zones on the hips and feet for extra warmth.

Though we haven't tested the men's version, I presume it is just as great.

If you need a sleep pad for international travel or have extra room on your backpacking trip for a larger option, this is the one to consider. It also comes in a larger size for $20 more.

Women’s Sea to Summit Comfort Light Sleep Pad Specs:

• Weight: 1 lb 7.5 oz.
• Pack Size: 6.25 x 8.25 in
• Dimensions: 67 x 21 x 2 in
• Repair Kit: Yes
• R-Value: 3.8
• Self-Inflating: Yes
• Price: $120

Links to Purchase a SEA TO SUMMIT Comfort Light Sleep Pad

Best for Kids or Budget Sleep Pad: REI Co-op Kindercamp Sleeping Pad

Contact us to discuss your requirements for the Outdoor Camping Sleeping Pad. Our experienced sales team can assist in identifying the best options for your needs.

The REI Kindercamp is an excellent budget sleep pad.

We own the REI Trekker kid sleep pad, but it is no longer available. However, the Kindercamp is an updated version that closely resembles our original. The only distinction is that the Kindercamp is 2 inches longer when packed down.

The Kindercamp sleep pad is durable, lightweight, and compact, making it easy to inflate and pack. Surprisingly comfortable, Victor often prefers this pad over inflatable options.

If you aren't particular about having high-end gear or want something comfortable without breaking the bank, I recommend this option even for adults. It's self-inflating, packs down small, has a high R-value, and costs only $50, making it a fantastic all-around choice. The only drawback is its shorter length, which means legs may hang off, but the padding on your hips and back remains adequate.

The REI Kindercamp Sleeping Pad is the most budget-friendly option available. It's lightweight, thin, compact, and easy to pack away. Choose the Kindercamp for a simple solution for yourself or your kids at an affordable price.

Kindercamp Specs:

• Weight: 1 lb. 13 oz.
• Pack Size: 5 x 12 in
• Dimensions: 60 x 20 x 1.5 inches
• Repair Kit: No
• R-Value: 4.5
• Self-Inflating: Yes
• Price: $50

Links to Purchase a Kindercamp Sleep Pad

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Advice on Buying the Best Sleeping Pad for Your Needs