Sleeping bag pad (1 Viewer)

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Elbert

Elbert

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Jul 20, 2006
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looking for a recommendations for a sleeping bag pad to use in a tent for camping purposes / sleeping on the "ground"... For single person use / at least 6ft in length.

I'm noticed some on the cabelas web site that are self inflating...etc

Looking for good quality item as I'm not much of a camper but at times I do camp with the 4wd club.
 
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I've used both generic foam pads and good self-inflating ones. Can't say I feel much difference in comfort but the self-inflating one has the advantage of a smaller package. And even smaller for true air mattresses. It's not like a 1/2" foam pad will allow you to sleep on sharp rocks, but I did use them while backpacking and it was better than sleeping straight on the ground for sure. And I've used 2 or 3 together for cushy sleeping when storage space was not an issue. If you are going to have a truck along though, consider a cot or a thick air mattress, you will sleep much better if you're a light sleeper.
 
I've used thermarest self inflating pads for many many years. In oz I have some old 72x22x1.5" ones that have been used for 20+ years and other than a few repairs (pin prick leaks) they have held up well. Repairs of pin pricks is easy, just a dab of superglue etc is usually enough to seal the tiny holes permanently. There are patches available too - but I've never needed to use them.

I do have a thick canvas ground sheet (like used for awnings etc) that I put inside the tent as a prickle protector and since I've been using it for the last 10+ years haven't had any more prickle punctures.

In the US I have the 77x25x2" ones and they've survived very nicely.

The larger/thicker ones I use in the US are somewhat more comfy than the smaller/thinner ones, but both have worked well. The thicker one works better if you like to sleep on your side and you're "bony" and tend to push through the padding to the ground. Depends how much built-in "padding" your body has :)

Thermarest has a huge number of styles and versions now, so you're likely to find something that works well for you. There's also cheaper clones available, but given the long term reliability I've had with the thermarest I see no reason to try and save a few dollars.

One final comment, with the self inflating mattresses, they will fill up faster once used a few time, i.e. the internal foam has had a chance to decompress. Don't store them tightly rolled up. Getting the 'right' pressure is also key to comfort. You can overfill them initially, then once you lay down on them you can roll on your side and then slowly let some air out till you get them nice and comfortable yet still preventing your hip from squeezing all the way through to the ground.

cheers,
george.
 
Gotta agree with George. I still use a Thermarest that I bought in 1984 to go on a Canada to Mexico bicycle trip. I have another more modern version of the same thing that is 10 years old, also going strong. I did have to replace the inflation valve on the older thermarest and fix maybe 2 pinhole leaks (Aquaseal also works), but the replacement parts are available and no big deal.

So while the Chinese Thermarest knockoffs are cheaper, I doubt they will give you the long term service of the genuine thing. Newer Thermarests can be had wtih one of the surfaces being a heavier cordura nylon. I've never had a leak in that one.

On the thickness, if space is a problem get the 1 1/2 inch thick ones. Of not the thicker Camp rest looks pretty nice.
 
I have a thermarest Prolite, and have had it for years.
It's nice and light, low on bulk, provides nice padding and alot of extra insulation.
Worth owning.
 
thanks for the advice...I'll try to watch for some good deals over the weekend into Monday.
 
Rafting ones are the s*#$. I have ones for my whole family made by SOTAR (raft manufacturer). AIRE and Paco pad brands are awesome too. Self inflating with dense foam, heavy duty valves, and tough raft type material that is very resistant to punctures. I'm a side sleeper and find it very comfortable.
 
I use a thermarest, the large one. I can't remember the model, it's a little over 6 feet long and 2 inches thick when fully inflated. If it's winter I also use a closed cell pad under the thermarest. I store it semi inflated.
 
Another vote for the Thermarest...whatever models suits your needs best, they are worth the $$ if you are the type to take care of your good gear.
 
ThermaRest

Order directly from their website
 
I'm an avid backpacker and go with the lighter pad to save weight and size.
Car camping....go with thermarest (probably 2.5" thick). We use these when going winter snow camping with an added closed cell pad. Very durable and easy to inflate.
 
I use this Thermarest pad and most times use my Thermarest closed cell pad underneath it unless i have company while camping. Very comfortable.

SHAGN.jpg
 
I have thermarest. For on ground sleeping I also use a closed cell foam pad - they are always bright blue in colour. These don't absorb water and also stop heat loss through the bottom into the ground.

Look at X-Ped, it's a brand name and they are insulated. They take sleep mats to a whole new level!
 
X3 on the Big Agnes especially if you get a sleeping bag from them to go with it. The sleeve on the back is genius. Never rolling off your pad or twisting up your bag is priceless.
 
tperry616 said:
X3 on the Big Agnes especially if you get a sleeping bag from them to go with it. The sleeve on the back is genius. Never rolling off your pad or twisting up your bag is priceless.
Click to expand...
Good to know, I'm thinking of replacing my cheap bag this summer I'll have to look at the Big A bags.
 
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