A good, reliable sleeping pad is an unavoidable addition to any camper’s and backpacker’s kit. Designed to offer you a good level of protection from the ground, and the elements – wherever you are- a sleeping pad will improve both your comfort and the overall backpacking experience. As such, a sleeping pad can be used both indoors and outdoors, and there are various designs to accommodate for both.
For backpacking, the choices are usually simple: inflating pads make the most sense as they pack compactly and do the job great without breaking the bank. However, memory foam pads are also popular if you can spare the extra space in your backpack: they offer superior comfort and will ensure you get quality sleep no matter where your adventures take you.
| Rank | Product | Highlights |
| #1 |  Sleepingo Ultralight Mat
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| #2 |  ECOTEK Outdoors Hybern8 Ultralight Inflatable Sleeping Pad
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| #3 |  HiHiker Compact Outdoor Sleeping Pad
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| #4 |  Clostnature Self Inflating Sleeping Pad
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| #5 |  Powerlix Self Inflating Foam Pad
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| #6 |  AceCamp Portable Foam Sleeping Pad
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Do You Need a Sleeping Pad for Backpacking?
Exploring nature and the great outdoors is certainly a rewarding experience if you do it right- but without the proper equipment and preparedness, things can go south real fast. Whether you opt for camping, backpacking, hiking, trailing, or whatever else – a sleeping pad can prove to be an invaluable friend, even a lifesaver on certain occasions. But are they really necessary? I mean, you could think that a folded blanket could do the trick, or that you could do without it if you’re out and about when the weather is warm, but that isn’t the case. A sleeping pad for backpacking can significantly increase your comfort and prevent any mishaps and issues such as catching a cold after a night on the cold ground. When you’re out backpacking, your sleeping arrangements are rarely determined and you’ll often have to adapt to the situation on the spot. If you can’t rely on a camper trailer, a motel, or anything else (which defeats the purpose of an adventure, if you think about it) you are then left with really limited options when sleep is considered. And you do not want to find yourself in nature – or anywhere else for that matter – without a safe place to sleep. That is why a sleeping pad is always handy. Even if you have a better place to sleep, it won’t hurt to have a light and compact sleeping pad strapped onto your pack. You never know when you will have to bust it out.
Another thing that many would-be adventurers often overlook is the drastic change in temperatures that can occur overnight. Even if the day is hot, the night won’t be, which is another reason why it is always good to have a sleeping pad and a sleeping bag strapped to your back. When combined, these two outdoor accessories can ensure you’re comfortable and protected from the elements.
What to Look for In Sleeping Pads for Backpacking
When you’re backpacking, there’s a whole other set of considerations to factor in that you might not think of with other forms of travel. All your gear and everything you need for your adventure will be on your back, so, naturally, you’ll have to make sure you can comfortably carry everything you need- and that can make things tricky, especially when it comes to sleeping pads. This is why you have to choose clever designs and sleeping pads adapted to suit the needs of every backpacker, both in terms of comfort and practicality.
Weight and compactness
The first factor that should influence your decision is the size and the weight of the sleeping pad. It shouldn’t be too heavy or too bulky when packed: some options include a compression bag to minimize the packed size of the pad or simply pads designed to deflate/fold to a backpack-friendly size.
Warmth
Depending on your plans for your backpacking trip, you should pack accordingly- sleeping pads come in options suited for all seasons, so pay attention to the weather appropriateness when picking out your gear. The R-value of a sleeping pad determines its warmth levels, so R-values of 0-2 are suited for mild climates and warm weather, R-values of 2-4 are a good choice for the better part of the year except for cold weather, and R-values starting from 5 and above are suited for temperature near or below the freezing point.
Comfort
Of course, an essential feature of a sleeping pad is comfort, so you want a pad that gives you the good ground clearance and decent cushioning for your short trip. Usually, the “formula” is the thicker the pad, the comfier it is, so pick one that is at least 2” thick and more, especially if you sleep on your side.
Best Sleeping Pads for Backpacking
Sleepingo Ultralight Mat
Specs:
- Material: 20D Ripstop tear-resistant nylon
- Weight: 14.5 oz
- Thickness: 2”
Editor’s choice
This premium quality inflatable pad boasts above-average durability – a factor very important in the outdoors – and superb comfort levels as well. One thing to notice straight away is the luxury ripstop nylon fabric that makes up the majority of this pad. This camping grade material is perfect for withstanding all the wear and tear of a classic camping trip, including that inflicted by the elements. The design relies on an established honeycomb concept for the sleeping surface, which also adds an ergonomic touch to the sleeping pad. However, the honeycomb shape texture is most appreciated for its heat-trapping properties, which can make a difference when night temperatures get low, but only in moderate climates and warm weather season, as the R-value of 2.1 makes this sleeping pad for backpacking best suited for the milder temperatures.
In addition to its durability and comfiness, this sleeping pad is also ultralight and packs compact. This pad weighs just 14.5 ounces and will be no hassle to carry – whatsoever- as it packs down to a size of a thin water bottle thanks to its carrying case.
Pros
- Inflates quickly
- Durable tear-resistant fabric
- Rated for warmer weather
- Comes with a storage pouch
- Packs down to the size of a water bottle
- Lightweight
- Comfy to sleep on
Cons
- Has to be inflated manually (with your breath)
Who Should Buy This Product?
With a host of modern features neatly packed into one efficient design, this well-rounded sleeping pad is a backpacker’s dream. Comfy to sleep on, lightweight and compact when packed, it will keep you cozy wherever your next adventure takes you.
ECOTEK Outdoors Hybern8 Ultralight Inflatable Sleeping Pad
Specs:
- Material: 75D Polyester
- Weight: 24.5 oZ
- Thickness: 2.2”
Runner up
This clever sleeping pad design is a careful combination of comfort, durability – and simplicity. This reliable pad is perfected for outdoor use – it is made from 75D polyester fabric that can easily take the punches of heavy outdoor wear and tear. Besides this, it is also completely waterproof: perfect for damp environments. However, the best part about this sleeping pad is its patent-pending FlexCell Design which maximizes comfort and insulation without adding much bulk: the R-value of 2.2 will give you 3-season warmth, and the textured and thick sleeping surface is great for all sleeping positions.
While this pad is not self-inflatable, it needs less than 10 breaths to bring the pad up to size- and in a matter of seconds. It comes with its carrying pouch so you can pack it neatly and compact for your next trip.
Pros
- Soft but durable polyester fabric
- Slip-resistant bottom
- Waterproof
- Thermal insulation for milder seasons
- Inflates in seconds
Cons
- Not the best choice for side sleepers
Who Should Buy This Product?
Designed with attention to detail and made from high-quality soft and durable 75D polyester, this lightweight sleeping pad will not overwhelm your backpack but it will offer much-needed comfort and warmth on cold nights in the great outdoors.
HiHiker Compact Outdoor Sleeping Pad
Specs:
- Material: 20D TPU
- Weight: 14.5 oz
- Thickness: 2.2”
Customer’s choice
“A Mattress that Fits in Your Pack” is the way that the manufacturer describes this sleeping pad for backpackers, and it is an adequate description. This lofty, soft, and comfortable sleeping pad is not only durable but also quite lightweight and dead easy to carry around. And when you go backpacking, that matters a lot. The feature you’ll notice immediately is the unique diamond pattern, that leaves little grooves on the surface and effectively traps your body heat to allow more warmth- the R-value of 2.1 makes this a solid 3-season sleeping bag. Made from camping grade materials, it can stand any test you throw at it in the outdoors, making it great for hiking, camping, backpacking, and anything in between.
While this sleeping pad also needs to be inflated by breath, it takes no more than 10 to 15 breaths to get it to its full size. And with the addition of an airtight valve cap, it will retain its fullness for as long as you use it.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Folds small
- 3-season sleeping pad
- Includes a patch kit
- Easy to inflate
Cons
- Not suited for heavier people
Who Should Buy This Product?
Versatility, compactness, and durability are the main features of this design which make it perfect for any backpacker. Quick setup and superb comfort also don’t hurt a bit- you’ll get a good night’s rest without breaking a sweat.
Clostnature Self Inflating Sleeping Pad
Specs:
- Material: 210T Polyester + Memory Foam
- Weight: 3.2 lbs
- Thickness: 2”
Best backpacking sleeping pad for cold weather
Designed by experienced mountaineers – who knew exactly what makes for an excellent and reliable sleeping pad- this highly durable, layered design is one of the best solutions for all your outdoor adventures. One of the secrets of the durability of this concept is its three layers. On top is a patterned 210T polyester taffeta rubberized material, protecting the middle layer of 2” thick high resilience memory foam. The bottom layer is reserved for 210T polyester pongee material, for that cushioning that is so important. Ideally suited for colder weather, this premium quality sleeping pad has an R-value up to 4.3 and can be used on those chilly nights, but if you are planning on using it in subzero temperatures, consider the also available 3” alternative by the same manufacturer.
Another great feature of this sleeping pad is the self-inflating design. Just twist the special valve and watch it spring into form in a mere moment, saving time, effort, and breath!
Pros
- Superfast self-inflation
- Size of a football when packed
- Two methods of packaging
- Waterproof
- Memory foam padding for comfort
- Suited for use in cold weather
Cons
- Can be heavier than expected
Who Should Buy This Product?
Who better to design a reliable sleeping pad than seasoned veterans of mountaineering and backpacking: warm, reliably durable, and comfy to sleep on, this tough sleeping pad will quickly become your new best friend on your travels.
Powerlix Self Inflating Foam Pad
Specs:
- Material: 30D Ripstop tear resistant nylon + TPU
- Weight: 6.2 lbs
- Thickness: 3”
Best backpacking sleeping pad for side sleepers
With a 30D ripstop nylon and TPU outer layer, protecting the memory foam within, this pad perfectly combines comfort, support, and durability. The heavy-duty ripstop fabric is highly durable and waterproof, adding to the impressive thermal insulation that this pad boasts. But what makes this self-inflating pad so great is the comfort factor. It is great for people that sleep on their side or those that tend to wake up sore and with back pain when they camp. The ultra-thick high-density foam is perfect for adapting to your body shape and also features a built-in “pillow” which can save you some precious space in the bag and ensure a proper posture when sleeping.
The self-inflation design helps you get it set up in just a matter of seconds, and you are ready to hunker down wherever you happen to be. It also comes with a carry bag with a shoulder handle to make packing easy as can be.
Pros
- A great choice for side sleepers
- Built-in pillow design
- Cradles your body
- Waterproof and tear-resistant
- Thick foam layer
- Comes with multiple repair kits
Cons
- Somewhat bulky
Who Should Buy This Product?
This efficient, self-inflating design doesn’t just boast lightning-fast setup and impressive durability- its key advantage is that it is comfy, thick, and supportive enough for side sleepers and people with back pain. A great option to show you that you don’t have to sacrifice comfort when backpacking!
AceCamp Portable Foam Sleeping Pad
Specs:
- Material: Polyethylene Foam
- Weight: 11 oz
- Thickness: 0.5”
The best sleeping pad for ultralight backpacking
It is not all self-inflation and fluffy foam in the world of sleeping pads. There are simple(r) and more basic alternatives out there, suited for those backpackers that want a featherlight load- or at least, as light one as possible. And this thin foam pad perfectly fits the bill! Made from highly durable polyethylene foam, it easily stands the test of wear and tear, and also offers ample comfort. For convenient packing, it folds down in its accordion shape into a neat square that can easily be strapped onto your backpack without much-added weight, as it weighs just 11 ounces.
The rigidity of this design makes it perfect for spongy, sandy, and soft terrains and any other place where some extra support for your back is needed.
Pros
- Quick, no-hassle setup
- Accordion design folds small
- Lightweight
- Very tough and durable
- Versatile design
Cons
- Thin and doesn’t offer much cushioning
Who Should Buy This Product?
With an accordion folding system to keep it neatly tucked away and featherlight weight of just 11 oZ, this old school foam sleeping pad will keep you comfy without adding too much load to your backpack. Perfect if you are a minimalistic or ultralight backpacker!
Bottom Line
A sleeping pad in your backpack gives you the ability to set up your bed and snooze wherever you find yourself. Versatile and convenient, this backpacking accessory comes in different designs to accommodate different needs and budgets: from self-inflating to inflatable, from waterproof to insulating, and foldable to carry cases, there are options for every backpacker.