Best Camping Foam Pads in 2022

Last update: December 3, 2022

Are closed cell foam pads comfortable?

Closed cell foam pads are a type of camping gear that has many benefits. One of the main benefits is that they are comfortable. They are also lightweight and compact, making them easy to carry with you on a camping trip.

Are foam mats good for camping?

Foam mats are a great option for camping, as they are comfortable and provide insulation from the ground. They are also lightweight and easy to transport, making them ideal for camping trips. However, foam mats can be expensive and difficult to clean, so be sure to research before purchasing one.

Are foam sleeping pads warm?

Foam sleeping pads are a great way to stay warm while camping. They are lightweight and easy to carry, making them ideal for backpacking trips. Foam sleeping pads provide insulation from the ground, so you will stay warm even if the temperature outside drops.

Can a sleeping pad be too warm?

A sleeping pad can be too warm if it is not properly ventilated. When a sleeping pad is too warm, it can cause the sleeper to perspire and become uncomfortable. If a sleeping pad is not properly ventilated, the heat can build up and cause the pad to become hot to the touch. A properly ventilated sleeping pad will have a layer of air between the sleeper and the ground, which will allow the heat to dissipate and keep the sleeper comfortable.


Rugged Camp Air Mat+ Camping Sleeping Pad - Ultralight 17.2 OZ - Best Inflatable Sleeping Air Mattress for Backpacking, Hiking, Traveling – Lightweight & Compact Camp Sleep Pad (Air Mat+) Review:


The first camping item I purchased from this firm was an inflatable camping pillow, and this is the second. This camping mat is incredibly well thought out and built of high-quality materials, much like the cushion. The rip stop nylon ought should hold up to numerous uses. The seams seem to be very sturdy. They have an excellent inflation/deflation valve, which I particularly appreciate. Even with this 6-foot-long pad, it just takes a few breaths to inflate it, and packing it back up is equally quick and simple.The supplied elastic band to compress the pad and carrying container are excellent. It truly collapses to the size of a water bottle, and it is still rather light.Wonderful addition to a camping supply.



WELLAX UltraThick FlexFoam Sleeping Pad - Self-Inflating 3 Inches Camping Mat for Backpacking, Traveling and Hiking - 3inch Thickness for Better Stability & Support Review:


My old camping pad leaked, so I purchased this in advance of a four-night road trip. I like to sleep on my side because I'm a big guy (6' 5", 260 lbs). The only sleeping pad that has been cozy for "side sleeping" is this one. Everything else has either been too flimsy or has progressively leaked all night. This is genuinely the most comfy pad I've ever slept on. I've taken hundreds of camping excursions, both backpacking and car camping.This might not be ideal for you if you enjoy extremely soft beds that you can sink into, like a full-size air mattress. Although it is rather soft, it is firm in comparison to an air mattress, though not as firm as a sleeping pad made from an extremely basic foam sheet. I'd place it in the middle of those two.Backpackers: Backpacking is not a good use for this. It is almost the same size and weight when compressed and rolled up as a camp chair. Instead, I have an extremely light pad.Pros: They are extremely thick, self-inflating after a few uses, have two vents for quick inflation and deflation, and are long and wide enough to fit almost anyone. The thick exterior material feels pleasant and keeps you warm.Cons: The included bag is too small, making it difficult to roll this pad tightly enough to fit it back in at any point (although it does come with fabric elastic bands to keep it rolled, so this isn't a major issue). Big and relatively heavy, but that's a necessary sacrifice for the comfort of this pad.• Only the first few times you unroll it does it not self-inflate very nicely. To aid with this, I advise leaving it inflated for a few days after purchase. (You could always blow it up with your mouth.)The best uses are for car camping and guest mattresses for homes.



TETON Sports Outfitter XXL Camp Pad; Lightweight Foam Sleeping Pad for Camping Review:


My new definition of camping is driving my truck to a remote place and setting up a cozy base camp—comfort being the operative word—after 22 years of sleeping on the ground with the Marine Corps. Although switching to a self-inflating sleeping pad from my hard foam military mat was a great step in the right direction, I soon began to wish I had a comfortable cot and mattress pad rather than sleeping on the ground. I chose the TETON XXL cot and this accompanying cushion since I'm 6'3" and sick of having my feet hang off the edge of my beds. When this pad was on sale for around $100, I bought two. Although I don't yet have the actual cot, this pad can be used as a ground mat in its place.The usable length is only 79 inches, out of a total length of 84 inches. The remaining 5 inches are located at the head of the pad and are intended to hang over the end of the cot. They are equipped with a tiny zipped pouch for valuables or perhaps an mp3 player as well as a flat wooden slat to help roll the pad back up. My toes still protrude from the end of the pad while I'm on my stomach, but that's much better than my ankles, and when I'm on my back, I'm entirely on the pad. It's wide enough for my 45-pound Labrador and me to lay down comfortably, and the material feels durable enough to withstand repeated use. It's a lot cozier than any other sleeping pad I've experienced and comes close to matching the coziness of a real bed.It doesn't come with a transport bag, so even if I might hunt for one later, I saved the boxes for now in order to keep them. Heavy strong nylon cinch straps with snap-lock buckles are stitched onto the pad itself. It is quite simple to wrap them up tightly or, if you choose, fairly loosely so the pad isn't crushed between camping excursions, thanks to that and the slat at the other end. Additionally, there is a zippered pouch at the head where a pillow might be placed, but since I prefer to turn my pillow over as I sleep, I doubt I'll ever use it.It has been said by several reviewers that this is not a pad for backpacking. Additionally, because it is wider than other camping pads, it will take up more room in the car. However, if comfort is what you're after, this pad is a great choice.Update September 2013: Since this pad didn't come with a carrying or storage bag, I had been keeping them in their original boxes while looking for a bag that fit. Because of the length rather than the diameter of the rolled pad, I was unable to find anything in this size that opened on the end. The first bag I used was a 16" x 40" duffle bag, which was 2" longer and wider than the measured rolled pad. While the pad fit precisely inside the bag once it was there, it required too much tucking and force to do it. The Northstar 1050 HD Tuff Cloth Diamond Ripstop Series Gear/Duffle Bag is what I ultimately chose (18-Inch x 42-Inch). You don't need to roll the pad tightly because it fits into and out of the bag without any difficulty.



WELLAX Ultralight Air Sleeping Pad - Inflatable Camping Mat for Backpacking, Traveling and Hiking Air Cell Design for Better Stability & Support - Best Sleeping Pad Review:


Even before I utilized this pad, I was rather impressed. After a quick three-night excursion, I pulled it out, and I was just as impressed as before. Here is my tale:I enjoy camping and backpacking, but because I'm a rather thrifty guy, I don't frequently purchase the newest and greatest. I have been using an old, foam, 1/2 inch sleeping pad for years, and my hiking boots are from a thrift store. My backpack is from when I was a youngster (20 years ago). It functions adequately, but because it won't fit inside my bag, I frequently have to bungee link it to the outside. I don't think it bothers me much that my wife doesn't generally go, so I didn't see the need in spending additional money on anything special. She does, however, occasionally accompany me, and when we recently decided to go on one, I thought she would be more comfortable with a nicer pad. I considered a lot of options before choosing this one because of the price, thickness, weight, and compressed size. I reasoned that she could use it on this trip while I continued to use my old foam one and that I could then use it on my next backpacking excursions. She was dubious when I told her how much it cost (she's quite frugal like me), but after it arrived, we made a side-by-side comparison. There was no comparison, let me tell you that. This pad was far superior, and it continued to remain so during our trip. See, it rained on us quite a bit. A completely different tale is two to three inches of standing water on top of my sleeping bag inside the tent. We didn't even think about the pads as we worked to dry the tent and sleeping bag. I noticed my error with my pad when it was time to go to sleep, but this one was completely dry. We didn't have as much comfort that night, but wet sleeping bags have a tendency to cause discomfort.Anyway, here are a few other things to be aware of. Because of the valve design, it was simple to inflate, however ten breaths is definitely closer than five. It might have been 15, but because I have a mild case of asthma, maybe that was my fault. It's going to be lot simpler to bring along because it is around the same size when packed as a pair of my wool socks. Additionally, it is simple to put back into the bag it came in, so you won't have to worry about taking longer than expected to break camp. I'll add anything else I can think of later, but overall, I'm really pleased with my purchase.



Therm-a-Rest RidgeRest SOLite Reflective Foam Camping Ground Pad Review:


This is a great sleeping pad made of closed-cell foam. I have used it on numerous nights spent over 10,000 feet when the weather fell below freezing since it offers excellent insulation. It is incredibly strong and lightweight. Although predicted, the grooves do collect dirt, which is easily removed by giving the tent a brief shake outside. Yes, this sleeping mat is not the most comfy available (but that is what you should expect from closed cell foam pads). A closed-cell foam pad's level of comfort cannot be compared to an inflatable's. This closed cell foam pad is pretty pleasant in comparison to other closed cell foam pads, but if comfort is truly important to you, you should think about getting an inflatable. However, this pad is unbeatable for the price. This is a fantastic option if you're on a tight budget or are just starting out in the world of backpacking. I now use a sea to summit inflatable, but I still frequently bring this along and use both pads (using this one keeps my more costly pad over the ground so it doesn't get damaged).



Certipur-US Memory Foam Camping Mattress【Single:75"x30"x2.75" Twin 75"x38"x2.75"】Portable Sleeping Pad Floor Guest Bed Lightweight Outdoor Tent Mattress Removable Waterproof Cover Free Travel Bag Review:


This pad caught my attention for a while. The Laid Back Pad (https://www.amazon.com/LaidBackPad-Memory-Camping-Mattress-Connector/dp/B01COF6NNG) initially piqued my curiosity. I had read numerous reviews and seen various YouTube videos about it. When I go camping, air mattresses lose air, and I am SO TIRED OF IT. Though I was aware that foam was the way to go, I had trouble reconciling the weight and support issues.As they use the exact same lifestyle image, I might even speculate that this pad is produced by the same parent firm as the Laid Back pad. The parts are also extremely similar. The Laidback pad is only 24" wide, whereas this pad is 30", making a significant difference. This Wilpo pad is 2 3/4 inches thick compared to the Laidback pad's 2 3/8 inches. Instead of the allure of receiving a better deal, it was that extra width that convinced me to purchase from Ironman.Consumers who claim that A: "The pad is too heavy and too big to carry!" are continually at conflict with the manufacturers of these pads. or B: "I can't sleep with my body supported by the pad!"I had previously purchased a Teton Universal Pad, which is comparable to this but has only two pockets (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004FE25VY) "thick. Compared to this Wilpo's 75"x30" and 6 pounds, that was 80" x 30" x 2" "at 9.2 pounds, x2.75Then I purchased a Lightspeed air pad (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01FELZ3TW), which, let me tell you, I absolutely LOVED but kept losing air, which completely irritated me. Also, 6 pounds and 30 were involved "Despite being wide, it had the benefit of supporting your body with a layer of air—if only it could hold air!I then switched back to sleeping on pure foam.This is the problem.It will weigh more if you choose a pure foam pad with "greater support." Therefore, individuals like myself struggle to find a comfortable sleeping pad that can also be folded up neatly out of the way when not in use.Consider the weight of the sleeping pads when purchasing them. Although pads like the Laidback or Teton try to convince you that they are also suitable for "short hiking trips," more weight generally correlates to higher quality. Even this Willpo pad is depicted as "simple to carry," and their idea is that Ironman might walk a quarter-mile from a parking lot to a festival grounds to listen to music. Or maybe you could stroll the half-mile to the lake and lay down there to watch folks swim.Uncertain ClaimsDue to grandiose claims like "NO MORE Back-pain or bothersome Discomfort from Rocky Terrain" or praising "memory foam" without mentioning how much "memory foam" there is, this product fell short of receiving five stars from me.Although it is a decent product and does contain some "memory foam," the product listing is very careful to specify how little memory foam is there. Although this material is clearly marketed as "memory foam," it actually consists of just "one layer" attached to another layer of "support foam." Additionally, some mattresses of higher quality feature a third layer of "closed cell foam" that resembles a yoga mat.Unzipping this pad, I was surprised to realize that there was just 1/2 inch of "memory foam." My image demonstrates this. Since I've been sleeping on this pad for the past two weeks, I've debated endlessly over whether "this is enough." More memory foam would mean less support foam, which would cause the pad to sink farther. Either that, or make the pad thicker all around. Therefore, they may have only been able to add 1/2 inch of memory foam without making the pad thicker and heavier. Although I can appreciate the design decisions, I wish the product description was more technical and less aspirational and dramatic.Larger "home mattresses," such as guest trifolds like this Zinux model (https://www.amazon.com/Zinus-Tri-Fold-Comfort-Portable-Mattress/dp/B079P6BWGR), I've discovered, clearly disclose how much of each layer you are getting. This page omitted that information. The 21-pound Zinus mattress would be challenging to transport even a short distance for a day of lounging. Therefore, "vehicle camping only" would apply.After considerable internal deliberation and consideration, I came to the conclusion that they couldn't significantly increase the amount of foam in this mattress and yet keep it somewhat compact, which brings me to my next disappointment.When you sit up to read on the pad, your butt will strike the ground. I weigh 180 pounds and am 6 feet tall. And I noted in my review of the Teton pad that it provided very flimsy ground support. Because it hardly supported you on earth or in car luggage bays, I labeled it a "cot topper only."When I sleep on my back, this pad does seem to support my body. I can feel the ground a little bit while I'm on my side. I can start to feel the floor in my butt a little bit when I'm sitting up and reading.All of this to say that I believe the support does a pretty excellent job of reducing the carrying weight. If you lay exactly so on it, it's like "just enough" to keep you supported. I reluctantly agreed to every factor. I could definitely obtain a 6 "Trifold Zinus weighed 20 pounds. In any contorted posture I could think of, I would probably NEVER feel the ground, but I would be annoyed by the weight and bulkiness to store.In order to cure my severe pickiness and OCD, I bought an underlayer for car camping. Amazon Basics Yoga Mat, basic (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01LP0U5X0). And this seemed to provide "That last piece of support" I needed. When I sit up, the butt-sinking stops, and side sleeping for 10 to 15 minutes at night helps. It also makes my camping equipment more adaptable. The yoga mat can be used separately as a crib topper, etc. Additionally, I have more alternatives for more compact storage because I can fold up the Willpo mattress and Yoga Mat separately in the car.Claim of WaterproofingOne other review I read claimed that "the pad collects water," but I believe the reviewer was misinformed. Actually, the cover is a top-notch "mattress protection." I got a cover for my home's bed using this material, which I am familiar with (https://www.amazon.com/SafeRest-Hypoallergenic-Waterproof-Mattress-Protector/dp/B003PWNGQU/). The material beading water is seen in my images. And while it may seem like water is "soaking through," this is untrue. I covered this pad with water and let it stand for an hour. I opened the zip and looked at the foam; it was completely dry. The apparent "soaking" you perceive in the photographs is simply a result of the fabric's physics. Because it is a "soft cover," as opposed to the noisy vinyl ones from the 1970s that bed-wetters used, the fibers appear to be soaking. It has excellent water resistance and is probably "rainproof." I can't yet comment on whether it will let water through if it is in standing water.This pad is decent all around. The cloth and zipper both seem to be of above-average quality. You get a half-inch of plush memory foam and the support foam is, well, simply foam. A second layer will probably be necessary for adult men to prevent their heavier bodies from slamming to the ground.I might not have been ready to spend more than $100 on this pad had I known then what I know now. I now spent $120, which I believe placed me into a market where other mattresses would compete. My rating is what I would call 4.5 stars.



Better Habitat Sleep Ready Memory Foam Floor & Camping Mattress. [Twin, Single, Kids]. 100% Memory Foam. Roll Out, Portable Sleeping pad with Waterproof Cotton Terry Cover, Travel Bag… Review:


This ought to have been created and accepted a long time ago. We looked everywhere for a cushy, fluffy sleeping cushion. We didn't require a mattress made entirely of memory foam, nor did we require anything suitable for carrying in a backpack. We were worried that foam would absorb water. The cover of this pad is waterproof. Yes, it takes up a lot of room in the back of my Nissan Juke, but without it, my camping road trip along the coast would not have been possible. Anywhere you go, sleep like a queen! In the traditional sense, it's a little bit small for two people, yet it fits nicely in a two-person tent. Snuggle. We were very grateful for the clips because they made rolling up and storing a breeze! I'm eagerly awaiting the release of further sizes because I'd like to get one that fits larger tents as well. Congratulations, Better Habitat!



ECOTEK Outdoors Insulated Hybern8 4 Season Ultralight Inflatable Sleeping Pad with Contoured FlexCell Design - Easy, Comfortable, Light, Durable, Hammock Approved - Sub Zero Temp Rating Review:


I purchased this insulated cushion to bring with me in mid-April to the 2500–3003 m Northern Japan Alps. Every time I go up there to camp in the icy mountains, I use a less insulated pad and every time I freeze to death. This time, I made the decision to invest in a warmer pad. The majority of the insulated pads I looked at were out of my price range, but this one strikes an excellent combination between price, weight, and performance.The first night had gusts and a temperature of about -10C, yet I never felt the cold getting closer to me. When my arm or leg did occasionally stray from the pad, I could immediately tell the difference. It's really quiet, cozy, and kind of curves up around the edges, which is great because it gives you a snug, secure feeling like you're in a nest. I had enough of room to fit on it in terms of size. Although I'm 5'9" and slender, I think it would be okay for someone taller. I roll about a lot while I sleep on my side and have never felt cramped.It's simple to roll up, store, and inflate/deflate. It is approximately the size of an American football when it is in its stuff sack. The fact that the stuff sack is a little bigger than it needs to be is something I genuinely really like. It also makes it simpler to pack up at the end of the trip than some of my other pads, which need a lot of effort to stuff into the bag.In conclusion, PROSLightweight (for an insulated pad) (for an insulated pad)When tucked away, compact (again, for an insulated pad - larger than my non-insulated pads)Excellent insulation in -10°C snowy and windy situations; extremely silentcozy and comfortableSimple to pack, inflate, and deflate ECOTEK plants a tree for every order! Awesome!!!I can't think of any cons. A fantastic pad all around. This pad comes highly recommended! Many thanks to ECOTEK for keeping me warm! On my upcoming expedition in the chilly weather, I'm looking forward to remaining warm.



Wakeman Non-Slip Luxury Foam Camping Sleep Mat Review:


When I laid on it, the soft foam substance was sufficiently comfy. The next time I go camping, I'll probably bring it to put on top of my other camp pad. But it wasn't the reason I bought it.I've just started doing overnight shifts. Unfortunately, when it's bright outside, my brain has trouble staying asleep. I couldn't now use blackout drapes due to certain restrictions, therefore I required a different approach. This size, blue camping mat that I already own, which also happens to fit exactly in my window. It sadly allows a lot of light to get through. but not this one. Today, I slept like a baby. every day. My phone's camera is practically unable to capture the meager quantity of light that enters. Very content.



REDCAMP Closed Cell Foam Camping Sleeping Pad, 22" Wide Lightweight Folding Camping Pad for Hiking Backpacking, 72"x22"x0.75", Blue/Grey Review:


Pros:s-Lightweights-Comfortable!Wider by two inches than the original, multipurpose, and less expensiveCons: -Not bear proof, funny, but there are none.These are things I adore. They are extremely cozy and reasonably priced! I'm not sure what other people are on about when they complain on other reviews that they aren't. It's a camp pad, people, they're meant for camping, and at this size/weight they won't feel like your bed mattress. Even after comparing them to the name brand goods, I still like these. They aren't quite as soft as some have claimed, which is true, but the original is too soft—no-support-soft—soft. the least in contrast. These are just better and bigger than the original, although I'm sure those that buy the original still think are a fantastic product. It is just big enough for my elbows when I use it to sleep in a hammock. I use mine for sleeping, lounging around camp, and doing yoga, topped with a decent, lightweight yoga towel. Without a towel to slide over the top, I wouldn't trust the material to withstand the outward force of a down-dog at the sectional joints. I have so far bought three of them. Two for my girlfriend and one for myself. (One was destroyed on our most recent trip by a black bear!) I've only ever benefited from the initial 10% off discount that everyone receives on their first purchase. I wholeheartedly endorse this item and advise you to have faith in the value of your purchase.


Can I use a yoga mat as a sleeping pad?

A yoga mat can make a great sleeping pad in a pinch, but it’s not the most comfortable option out there. Yoga mats are thin and don’t provide much cushioning, so you’ll feel every bump and stone underneath you. If you’re planning on using a yoga mat as a sleeping pad, make sure to bring a pillow and some blankets to make it more comfortable.

Can you use a 4 season sleeping pad in the summer?

A four season sleeping pad is not necessary for summer camping, when warmer temperatures make it easier to get comfortable. A three season or even a ultralight weight summer sleeping pad will be more than sufficient and save you money and space.

Do you need a pad under a sleeping bag?

Sleeping bags are designed to keep you warm, but in some cases a pad can help increase your comfort level. If you are camping in cold weather, a pad can provide extra insulation between you and the ground. In warm weather, a pad can provide a barrier between you and the warm ground, preventing you from getting too hot.

How can I make my camping bed more comfortable?

If you are someone who enjoys camping but doesn't love sleeping on the ground, there are some things you can do to make your camping bed more comfortable. One thing you can do is invest in a camping cot or air mattress. This will raise you off the ground and make it easier to sleep. Another thing you can do is bring along a sleeping bag that is specifically designed for camping. These sleeping bags are usually more padded and comfortable than regular sleeping bags. Finally, make sure to bring along some extra blankets and pillows to make your camping bed as cozy as possible.

How do you keep a tent warm in the winter?

One way to keep a tent warm in the winter is to use a space heater. Place the space heater near the entrance of the tent and make sure that the area around the heater is clear of any flammable materials. Another way to keep a tent warm in the winter is to use a heating pad. Place the heating pad inside the tent and make sure that it is not in contact with any flammable materials.

How do you keep bedding from getting damp when camping?

One way to keep bedding from getting damp when camping is to use a waterproof and breathable mattress cover. This will protect your mattress from moisture and allow it to breathe, preventing it from becoming damp. Another way to keep bedding from getting damp is to use a waterproof sleeping bag. This will protect your sleeping bag from moisture and keep it dry. Finally, you can use a tarp to keep your bedding dry. A tarp will protect your bedding from the elements and keep it dry.