Richard’s tips for choosing YOUR Sleeping Pad
Choosing the right sleeping pad is so important to your overall camping experience and there are so many options out there, it's essential you know the in's and outs of how to choose the right pad for YOUR needs.
} Firstly consider the 3 different types of Pads {
Air Pads are lightweight, super comfortable, and the most compact type, most of them require some form of manual inflation;
Self-inflating pads are a combination of open-cell foam insulation and air, they are the heaviest but also the warmest, most durable and can be compact depending on the brand;
Closed-cell foam pad are dense foam filled pads with tiny closed air cells, they are bulkier than the others but are lightweight, inexpensive, durable and offer good insulation.
} Choose based on Intended use {
Car camping - Self-inflating pad or thick air pad is best as it provides lots of cushioning but is bulkier and heavier.
Backpacking/ Bikepacking - Airpad or lightweight self-inflating pad because it is comfotable, lightweight and packs down compactly.
Minimalist Backpacking - Ultralight airpad is the best as it is lightweight and packs very small. Check the dimensions will fit well in your pack.
Winter Camping - Camping on snow requires a well-insulated air pad or self-inflating pad, preferably with synthetic fiber or down insulation that offers a high R-Value (which means good insulation properties).