Here are some general guidelines to remember when buying a new sleeping pad. When backpacking, we suggest sticking with swirling pads or self -inflated pads (although these are generally heavier) that offer the best insulation and cushion to size and weight. Whatever you specify, your goal is to always find the best hot-weight ratio. More heat means more weight. Keep the following tips in mind.
Know your intended use. Every ounce counts, as well as the packed size. Smaller, lighter pads occupy less room in your package and are great for a passage where you try to minimize gear to make room for food. Also consider the climate. If you plan to camp in Michigan in the fall, where cold weather is completely but guaranteed, you need a much more isolated pad to protect yourself from cold ground time than you camp in the Everglades in August. Bonus Advice: Don’t camp in the Everglades in August.
Know yourself. Everyone sleeps differently, and different pads will be better for different people. Are you a side sleeper who sleeps coldly? Go for a thicker pad with more insulation. Sleep every way and always waking up hot? Get an ultra -light pad still, so your throwing and turning will not bother your tents.
Consider your entire sleep system. The pad is the foundation, but how hot you sleep will also affect Your sleeping bagpillow, even which basic layers do you bring. (Many people do not know this, but sleep sack temperature estimates assume you are wearing a basic layer.)
You may need two. Sleeping pads are not a one-size-fits-fit solution. A light pad, which is perfect on rough summer nights, will not immediately cut it at an alpine camp in the early spring. It may be tempted to only get the summer cushion and bring a heavier sleeping bag in spring, but that does not lead to resting nights. A good sleeping pad means the difference between being hot and resting or shaking all night, even in the same sleeping bag. Trust us. We do it so you don’t have to.
Comfort is key. I know I’m joking about sleeping on tiny closed cell foam pads, but no longer needed. This guide proves that comfortable sleeping pads exist and weighs next to nothing. Although I really slept on the ground 35 years ago, you couldn’t afford me to do it now. Now I almost always bring two pillows: one swelling and one thin closed cell foam. The latter gives me a place to sit in the evening and adds some heat and a non-slippery sleep surface when I need it at night.
