Posted on by Beckworth & Co.

Top Outdoor Sleeping Pads

Sleeping pads are important. Even if you have a comfortable sleeping bag, a sleeping pad adds an extra layer of comfort. When you're camping, the rocks and the hard floor is something that makes it difficult for many people to sleep comfortably on. A nice sleeping pad can help.

The problem with some sleeping pads is that even though they may be comfortable, they are heavy and hard to pack. The size can make you almost think twice about packing it, especially when you're already carrying so much camping gear. 

Some pads may have better air support or even have a layer of material that makes it a bit more breathable than others. The costs vary greatly so budgeting for the sleeping pad is also a concern. Luckily Amazon does a decent job in sorting the sleeping pads that have the best value, quality, and reviews. Here's a list of some of the sleeping pads that made it to our list this year.

 

Outdoorsman Lab Ultralight Sleeping Pad

Compliments  Complaints
  • Amazon's Choice based on Amazon's algorithm
  • Great value and good quality
  • Easy to blow up and quick to put away
  • Light and small when folded up
  • Deflating is easy
  • The plastic tarp sound when sleeping on it
  • Not the best for very large people
  • Not as luxurious feeling as high-end ones like REi or more expensive ones
  • No insulation or layer that makes it feel better

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Klymit Static V Lightweight Sleeping Pad

Compliments Complaints
  • Light, not noisy
  • Backed by a warranty
  • Very compact
  • Cheap and gets the job done
  • There is a V2 version below which was voted "Best Value" by top contributing partner/reviewer on Amazon
  • Many reported leaks after so many uses
  • Zero cushioning when you sit up

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Therm-A-Rest NeoAir XTherm Lightweight Inflatable Backpacking Air Mattress

Compliments Complaints
  • Editor's Choice, best overall on Amazon at the time of this review
  • For customers who weigh less, the pad is strong enough to keep you from touching the ground at all without sagging for long periods of time
  • Very well insulated
  • Good weight and size for most people
  • You can roll it up fully - no foam
  • Loud when shifting positions
  • Slow leak reported by some users after use; but this is relatively common for any sleeping pad 
  • Bad responsiveness on the part of the company
  • Maybe too long for shorter people
  • A bit narrow for people who are wide or obese

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Klymit Static V2 Sleeping Pad

Compliments Complaints
  • Best Value on Amazon based on their top reviewers
  • Very lightweight and comfortable, even for larger people
  • Packs smaller than many of the other options
  • Inflates quickly
  • There is a little learning curve on how to use the air gauge
  • Pricier than similar but not as well rated alternatives
  • Not insulated
  • If the floors are cold, you will be cold as well

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Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol Ultralight Foam Backpacking Mattress

Compliments Complaints
  • Best seller in "Camping Foam Pads" on Amazon
  • Good sleeping pad for summer or spring
  • Folds up; no rolling needed
  • Lightweight & incredibly comfortable
  • Provides extra cushion
  • No insulation
  • Isn't very compact - bulky
  • Not the best for very cold temperatures 
  • Good sitting pad but not the most comfortable to sleep on
  • More of a "back/stomach" mat

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WELLAX Ultralight Air Sleeping Pad

Compliments Complaints
  • Comes with Repair Kit (some users didn't receive)
  • Only 14 oz in weight and folds very small
  • Good customer service
  • Great value (under 40 bucks)
  • Easy to inflate and deflate
  • Slippery material on the outside
  • Not good for side sleepers
  • Not many variety of colors to choose from

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