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Best Sleeping Pads for Camping and Backpacking in 2024

Best sleeping pads

If you’ve ever managed to forget your sleeping pad on a camping trip, then you will know first hand just how essential it is to have protection from the cold ground. Even the best sleeping bag can be rendered useless without a mat beneath you, and the dreamlike promise of a cosy, well-earned slumber can quickly turn into a thing of nightmares. And that doesn’t even take into consideration the comfort levels that a good sleeping pad provides.

So if you already have a great sleeping pad for camping, then make sure you don’t forget it! And if you’ve not got one yet, then, as with every bit of outdoor gear, a little knowledge on what to look for in the best sleeping pads and what’s available will go a long way.

Some of the best sleeping pads available are outlined later in the article.

Best sleeping pads for backpacking and camping in 2024

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ProductFeaturesR-ValueWeightPacked VolumeCost
Vaude Performance 7 MAll rounder2.7410gn/a$$$
Big Agnes Insulated Q-Core SLAll rounder4.5553g1.5L$$$$
Therm-A-Rest NeoAir Xlite NXTAll rounder award4.5370g1L$$$
Big Agnes Q-Core SLXAll rounder4.5454g1.4L$$$$
Therm-A-Rest Ridge SoLiteGood value2.8397g12L$
Nemo Equipment Flyer Self-Inflating Bluesign Sleeping PadGood value, eco-conscious3.3650gn/a$$
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Venture WVBest value award1.8595g2L$
Exped DownMat XP 9 LWWarmest81162g5.8L$$$$$
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XthermGood winter pad5.7425g1.6L$$$$
Sea to Summit UltralightVery lightweight0.7354g0.8L$$
Klymit Inertia X FrameLightest and smallest1258g0.4L$$

Pad types and cost

With a vast array of different sleeping pads on the market, you can expect to pay anything from $20 to $250 for a new camping mat. Of course selecting the best sleeping pad for the money for your wilderness dreamtime isn’t as straightforward as going for what fits within your budget. So here’s a breakdown of the main types of sleeping pad to choose from. Once you have a good idea of which is for you, you can then narrow your search slightly:

Closed cell foam (CCF) sleeping mat

Closed cell foam sleeping padClosed cell foam mats are the least expensive type of sleeping mat available and the best sleeping pad for the money. Their unrivalled durability means that they can endure use in a variety of backcountry scenarios, often doubling as extra support for frameless backpacks, amongst other things. They are also super lightweight, and at less than ½ an inch thick, CCF mats rely on tiny air pockets within the foam for insulation.
Cons: Not very comfortable and can be bulky
Example: Therm-A-Rest Ridge SoLite

Self-inflating sleeping mat

Self-inflating sleeping padYou won’t feel like you’re floating on clouds when curled up on a self-inflating sleeping pad, but they are considerably more pleasant to spend your zzz’s on than a CCF pad. The pads are made up of a sponge-like foam that is sandwiched between two pieces of fabric, and a couple of breaths is all that’s needed to fully inflate them, providing a stable and sturdy place to lay your weary head. Most are warm enough for 3 season camping, they inflate easily and to top it off, they won’t break the bank.

Cons: Can be a little on the heavy and bulky side
Example: Therm-A-Rest ProLite

Air construction sleeping pad

Air construction sleeping padAir construction mats are relatively new on the sleeping pad scene, and are taking the camping world by storm. And with good reason; they provide excellent levels of comfort and warmth, without compromising weight and pack down size, and are considered the best sleeping pad for side sleepers. In fact, some models are amongst the smallest and lightest pads available full stop. They owe their warmth to internal synthetic material, goose down or baffled structures which provide good insulation and stability to what otherwise might be mistaken for something the kids would take to the pool. Too good to be true? Well yes, unfortunately; this innovative new design will leave a large hole in your pocket. They can also puncture easily, making them the least durable of all the sleeping pad types.

Cons: Takes longer to inflate than others, expensive and can puncture easily
Example: Therm-A-Rest NeoAir XLite

Warmth

Having a comfortable sleeping pad is a pretty major factor when deciding which pad to choose, but if the insulation isn’t up to scratch, all that luxury won’t count for much – it’s no fun shivering your way through the night. Getting the right balance is, of course, the best option if you want to sleep like a baby. However, having your cake and eating it often comes at a price.

The insulation level of every sleeping pad is rated by an R-Value (a measure of the resistance of an insulating material to heat flow). The higher the number, the greater the level of insulation.

Sleeping pad R-Value:

  • 0-1 – only really suitable for warm summer conditions, when the ground doesn’t lose too much heat at night.
  • 1-3 – this will suit the needs of most campers for 3-season backpacking and wilderness sleeping.
  • 3-5 – great for winter camping and sleeping out in sub-zero temperatures.
  • 5+ – a must for camping on snow.

Comfort

As mentioned, the different pad types provide varying levels of comfort, so it’s important to understand your personal comfort requirements before you make the investment. Hardy, ‘sleep through anything’ types will probably be fine snoozing on a no frills CCF mat, but they can be pretty uncomfortable for those that favour sleeping on their sides. However, Princess and the Pea slumberers, will definitely prefer an air construction sleeping pad, whose cosiness will have you yearning for more nights out in the wild just to get a great night’s sleep.

Durability

Another key consideration to factor in when choosing the best sleeping pad for camping, is the pad’s ability to withstand the rough and tough of backcountry life.

CCF mats will endure pretty much anything you will throw at them, and are a great option for sleeping directly on rough ground, using as a seat around the campfire, or doubling as your climbing rope mat at the crag. Where they lack in comfort, they certainly make up for in versatility and robustness.

Air construction pads on the other hand, need to be looked after and shouldn’t be carried without a repair kit, which come with the mats.

Self-inflating sleeping pads generally stand up to a bit more battering than air pads, and you can place more confidence in their ability to not puncture when used directly on the ground. That said, they’re not bulletproof, so it’s always a good idea to carry a repair kit on extended trips.

Weight and size

As with most backpacking items, the smaller and lighter they are the better. But as we know, both of these things don’t always equate to products that suit your personal needs. Whilst having something super light will make your packing and carrying much easier, if you end up having a bad night’s sleep due to the lack of insulation provided by your overly light pad, you’re better off taking the hit of a heavier mat for a good and restorative snooze. Thankfully, some of the best sleeping pads for ultralight backpacking out there that are inconceivably tiny without compromising luxury and warmth. They usually carry a hefty price tag, that although can be an instant turnoff, is worth considering if you value your sleep. A couple of things to consider that can influence the weight and size of a sleeping pad are:

  • Length – to cut down on some weight without losing comfort or warmth, opt for a ¾ length mat that provides insulation to the key areas of your body but leaves your feet hanging over the bottom. Many backpackers put their bag under their feet to compensate.
  • Tapering – many new lightweight mat designs have saved weight by replacing the traditional rectangular shape with a more tapered ‘mummy’ style.

For winter camping you will need all the insulation you can get, so it is best to stick with a full length rectangular design and even go for something wider than average if possible.


With all of that in mind, here’s the lowdown on 8 of the best sleeping mats for backpacking in 2024 that cover a range of budgets, camping styles and preferences:

All rounder sleeping pads

Vaude Performance 7 Sleeping Pad

Vaude Performance 7

Eco-conscious: Contains TPU fabric, recycled polyester, and eco-friendly Primaloft insulation

If you want to sleep green in the great outdoors then take a look at the Performance 7 from Vaude. With a 2.7 R-Value rating and a minimum temperature limit of -3.5 degrees C, this inflating camping pad is designed for three-season camping. The pad is an impressive 7cm thick and filled with recycled polyester and Primaloft Black Insulation Eco. The outer fabric is made from a hard-wearing 20D TPU fabric which is environmentally preferable to PVC. The curved ends help to save weight and, at 410g, the Performance 7 is both light and compact enough for backpacking trips. This rugged camping pad also comes with an emergency repair kit and bag. It’s available in two lengths and Vaude offer a four-season version of this pad with a 4.7 R-Value, the Performance Winter 7.

Find the latest price at:
Vaude| Amazon


Big Agnes Insulated Q-Core SL

Big Agnes Q Core SL

Although a very strong contender for the all-rounder award, the Big Agnes falls short on weight and price compared with the Therm-A-Rest NeoAir Xlite. However at an inch thicker, you can be sure that the internal, heat-reflective polyurethane coating will be sealing in plenty of warmth on those chilly nights.

Like the XLite, it is a little on the narrow side, but has the added benefit of a rectangular design to make up for it, and is surprisingly stable for a pad of this depth making it a hot competitor as the best sleeping pad for side sleepers.

The Q-Core is a good compromise if you require more warmth than the XLite but don’t want to take the financial hit of the XTherm.

Find the latest price on:
Amazon | REI

Thermarest NeoAir Xlite NXT
Close ups of sleeping mat

Therm-A-Rest NeoAir Xlite NXT Sleeping Pad

The Therm-A-Rest NeoAir Xlite NXT really has got it all: super lightweight, a pack down volume that competes with your water bottle, and comfort levels to rival your bed at home. Newly updated for spring 2023, Therm-A-Rest have significantly improved an already great sleeping pad. It now provides 10cm of depth for superior side sleeping comfort, a huge noise reduction (83% less, according to Therm-A-Rest) which really does make a difference to sleep quality, and a pump sack for easy and wooze-free inflation. Additionally, its improved insulation provides an R-value of 4.5 which makes it suitable for year-round camping.

Despite the slightly narrow sizing (although a wide version is available) and the usual repair kit requirement of an air construction sleeping mat, the XLite NXT is an excellent choice for lightweight backpacking and bikepacking as well as for luxury car camping and glamping. As such, this exceptional sleeping pad wins our All Rounder Award without question.

For more information read our full review of the Therm-A-Rest NeoAir Xlite NXT Sleeping Pad.

Find the latest price at:
REI | Amazon | Alpine Trek

Big Agnes Q-Core SLX

Big Agnes Q Core SLX sleeping pad

This new addition to the Q-Core range from Big Agnes is lighter, packs down smaller and is easier to use than the older version. And although the Q-Core SL is a very hot contender as an allround great sleeping pad, it’s hard not to love this new and better version: the Q-Core SLX.

Somehow Big Agnes have shaved 100g off the weight of the SL whilst increasing the tear resistance of the nylon rip-stop fabric by 25%. They have also greatly improved the valve system which now has two separate valves for inflation and deflation. When inflating through the one-way valve, you can take a break without the whole things deflating!

The synthetic insulation provides warmth down to 15ºF (-9ºC), which equates to an R-Value of around 4.5. This makes the SLX a more compact option than the XTherm for backpacking in winter conditions, that also provides a thicker and larger area to get snoozing on.

Find the latest price on:
Amazon | REI


Best value sleeping pads

Therm-A-Rest Ridge SoLite

Thermarest Ridgerest SoLite

This CCF accordion-style sleeping mat is the cheapest option in this review and the best sleeping pad for the money. Although very thin and light, the heat-trapping dimples and ThermaCapture™ coating helps trap radiant heat, which increases the overall warmth of the mat by 20% – so no need to worry about the chill. It’s also super durable and robust, being as comfortable lying around camp as tucked up in your tent. However, its comfort levels stop there, making it a poor choice for side sleepers and lovers of luxury. The other main disadvantage is the pack down size. With a pack volume of 12L, you’ll be limited to securing the mat to the outside of your pack; OK in dry conditions, but can be problematic in the wet.

This is a good value sleeping pad and the best closed cell foam sleeping pad for fast and light thru-hikers, who will most likely be too tired to need a bed of feathers to aid their sleep. It is also a good option for campers with canine companions – the rugged nature of the mat is much more able to deal with dog claws than an expensive air construction mattress.

Find the latest price on:
Therm-A-Rest | Amazon | REI

Nemo Flyer Sleeping Pad
Close ups of Nemo Flyer Sleeping Pad

Nemo Equipment Flyer Self-Inflating Bluesign Sleeping Pad

Together with items such as the Moonlite Reclining Chair and the Chipper Reclaimed Closed-Cell Foam Seat, Nemo have been creating some high-performing yet more environmentally-friendly camping gear over the last couple of years. And to add to their portfolio of eco-conscious products, they have also created the Flyer Self-Inflating Bluesign Sleeping Pad which boasts bluesign approved materials and 100% recycled top and bottom fabric.

From a performance point of view, the Flyer is one of the heavier sleeping pads on our list, weighing 650g. However, it offers a good R-value rating of 3.3 making it well suited to 3 season one night hiking trips, bike touring and car camping. It’s not one for lightweight backpacking as it doesn’t pack down especially small, comparatively. That said, considering its foam-based construction, the clever design makes the best of what really should be a much bulkier mat.

Where it adds huge appeal over the ultra lightweight air construction sleeping pads, however, is in its durability and ease. It only takes a couple of breaths to inflate to your desired firmness, which is easy to adjust thanks to the zero profile lay low valve that splits into two for inflating and deflating. And because it relies on foam rather than air for insulation, it will outlast any of the air mats by years.

Additionally, it comes with a more friendly price-tag than most of the pads on our list making it one of the best value options of this quality. Plus, it’s incredibly comfortable and quiet; no rustling that wakes up the whole tent each time you turn over in the night!

Find the latest price at:
Nemo Equipment | REI | Amazon | Alpine Trek

Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Venture WV

Thermarest NeoAir Venture WV AwardNot the lightest pad in this review, but a really excellent value option that provides super cosy comfort levels without compromising too much on weight. The WaveCore structure uses a single layer of horizontal wave baffles, that doubles the warmth of an uninsulated air mattress without the added bulk, leaving you with a very respectable pack volume of only 2L. Warm enough for most 3 season camping trips and much more durable than an air mattress, the Venture WV really comes into its own during multiple nights of camping in the same spot, where comfort shares the spotlight with good insulation levels. The rectangle shape offers more space than tapered designs, and Therm-A-Rest have even added a luxurious polyester coating for against the skin comfort.

If it’s a ‘one pad fits all’ deal you are after, that is one of the best sleeping pads for car camping as well as backcountry ramblings, then you can’t go wrong with this tried and trusted thermarest favourite that won’t break the bank. Winner of our Best Value Award.

Find the latest price on:
Therm-A-Rest | Amazon


Warmest sleeping pads

Exped DownMat XP 9 LW

Exped DownMat 9 XP LW

As one of the warmest pads on the market, the Exped DownMat is THE pad for serious winter expeditions, providing comfort and insulation at temperatures as low as -36.4F. The 3.5 inches of 700 fill power goose down insulation, ensures a luxurious sleep whatever the temperature. But at over 1.1kg, the mere mortal winter explorer might find it better suited to multiple days at base camp rather than on the move winter expeditions.

Either way, the XP9 LW (long and wide) is the best sleeping pad for big guys that will keep even the largest of snow sleepers happy, comfortable and very warm.

Find the latest price on:
Amazon | REI

Therm-A-Rest NeoAir XTherm

Thermarest NeoAir Xtherm

This 4 season air construction Therm-A-Rest is incomprehensibly light, luxuriously comfortable, and offers excellent insulation levels – the best sleeping pad for side sleepers. The combination of the ThermaCapture technology, which traps radiant heat inside the pad, and the TriangleCore Matrix, which adds stability and warmth through stacked internal cell structure, makes this pad a must for fast and light winter campers, or those who sleep cold. The cell structure also bypasses the bounce factor, providing 2.5 inches of stable cosiness, where other air mattresses fall short.

To top it off, this super warm winter sleeping pad packs down to a tiny 1.6L, so if you’re happy to take the financial hit, then the unmatched warmth to weight ratio of the XTherm will not disappoint.

Find the latest price on:
Therm-A-Rest | Amazon | REI


Lightest sleeping pad

Sea to Summit Ultralight Air

Sea To Summit Ultralight

The Air Sprung cells of this super small and lightweight Sea to Summit sleeping pad, provide a greater degree of support and stability than the tube cell equivalents. And the single layer of divided chambers create dimples that mimic those of a bed mattress, molding to your body for optimal comfort. You won’t get a much lighter air construction pad that packs this small without compromising on comfort. With a slightly more competitive price tag than the NeoAir XLite, the Ultralight is one of the best sleeping pads for hiking fast and light. However, its low R-value means all that Air Sprung comfort counts for nothing except in the most clement summer conditions.

Once again, a repair kit is a must and although it is compatible with a Sea to Summit Air Chair, care must be taken to avoid punctures. Another great little accessory available is a Coupler Kit that keeps your partner’s mat cosy and close for camping cuddles!

Find the latest price on:
Sea to Summit | Amazon | REI

Klymit Inertia X Frame

Klymit Inertia X Frame Ultralight

This innovative approach to sleeping mat technology puts the X Frame at the top of the table for lightweight camping. It claims to be the “lightest, most compact, most advanced full-length sleeping pad ever developed”, and with a pack volume of only 0.4L, it is difficult to see how anything else could possibly compete. The unique advanced patterning of the body mapping chambers, provide comfort and support at key pressure points. But not the sort of comfort one might expect from an air construction pad and certainly not comparable with the slightly heavier Sea to Summit Ultralight. The low R-value makes it a risky option for 3 season campers but this Klymit sleeping pad is amongst the best sleeping pads for ultralight backpacking, suited to hardy lightweight backpackers.

The thick polyester coating on the bottom of the pad helps reduce the risk of punctures, but the upper is much thinner, so a repair kit (included) is essential.

Find the latest price on:
Amazon


Notable mentions

The below pads didn’t quite make it into our top choices for each category, but are all really great sleeping pads for camping that are definitely worth looking at if any of the above don’t quite fit your requirements:

  • Nemo Astro Sleeping pad

    Nemo Astro Insulated Lite 20R

    For an all round good 3 season mat, the Nemo Astro Insulated Lite 20R is a slightly cheaper option than the XLite and Q-Core SL. Although heavier and larger, the Nemo Astro provides decent warmth, 3 inches of insulated comfort and a built in pillow. An excellent Nemo sleeping pad.
    Temp rating: -4ºC to -9ºC

    Weight: 540g
    Pack size: 2.2L

  • Klymit Static V2 Sleeping Pad

    Klymit Static V2

    At 59cm wide, the Static V2 is a little wider than most sleeping pads and still manages to pack down to the size of a soda can, AND provide OK levels of warmth and comfort. This Klymit sleeping pad is a good value and tiny option for fast and light backpackers.

    R-value:1.3

    Weight: 463g
    Pack size: 0.35L

  • Therm-A-Rest ProLite Sleeping Pad

    Therm-A-Rest ProLite 

    If you can’t resist a trusty and durable self-inflating thermarest, then the ProLite is the lightest and most compact option of its type. An excellent value, sturdy pad that won’t win any prizes for comfort but does the basics very very well.

    R-value: 2.4

    Weight: 510g
    Pack size: 2.2L


Sleeping pad accessories

  • Sleeping pad stuff sack

    Sleeping pad stuff sack

    Make the pack down size even smaller by compressing your sleeping pad into a stiff sack.

  • Sleeping pad coupler kit

    Sleeping pad coupler kit

    If you’re sharing your tent with someone else, avoid the gap between the mats by looping them together. Much cosier!

  • Sleeping mat stool kit

    Sleeping pad stool kit

    If you know that once you’re down you won’t get up, then stay upright for longer by turning your mat into a stool.

  • Sleeping pad chair kit

    Sleeping pad chair kit

    The chair kit provides plenty of back support for upright dining or lazy reclining.

  • Sleeping pad repair kit

    Sleeping pad repair kit

    An essential addition to your sleeping kit – especially when using air construction pads.

  • Sleeping pad bag pump

    Sleeping pad pump sack

    Save some breath and use a few bags full of air instead. Good for use with air pads that require more inflation.

  • Sleeping pad mini pump

    Sleeping pad mini pump

    Or do things the lazy way and use a battery powered mini pump. Great for car camping.


If you’re the type of camper who prefers setting up their tent for a good few days in an established campground, you may want to consider opting for something that offers a bit more comfort…
camping mattress gear guide

About the author

author-joey

Joey Holmes is based in Cornwall, UK, and runs Cool of the Wild. She can’t get enough of being outdoors – whether that’s lounging around the campfire cooking up a feast, hitting the trail in her running shoes, or attempting to conquer the waves on her surfboard – she lives for it. Camping is what she loves to do the most, but has also spent many hours clinging to the side of a rock face, cycling about the place, cruising the ski-slopes on her snowboard, and hiking small mountains and big hills.

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