Even if a sleeping bag may steal the spotlight in terms of camping gear, sleeping pads are no less important. These are absolutely necessary to enjoy a good night’s sleep since a sleeping pad serves as the barrier between you and the ground.
A sleeping pad plays 2 important roles for you to sleep properly in great outdoors and these include insulation and cushioning. While it seems like having a comfortable surface to sleep on is the most useful function of a sleeping pad, keeping you warm throughout the entire night is more important.
If winter is your favorite season to camp, you should remember that it takes more planning, a bit of knowledge, and more gear. However, a winter night can be hard to beat. This is the reason why you need a sleeping pad even if you have a sleeping bag.
Why You Need a Sleeping Pad?
A sleeping pad’s main function is to provide padding particularly for sleeping bags as well as to promote thermal insulation. It’s available in 2 types and these include solid and inflated ones.
The inflated sleeping pad is subdivided into 2 categories. The manually inflated ones need an external pressure source to inflate like a blower while self-inflating ones don’t have to be inflated.
On the other hand, the solid type is made from firm foams and some similar materials. You just have to roll it and secure a tie.
A sleeping pad is a must-have item. It can protect you from some sharp objects and other things that could make you uncomfortable while sleeping.
It also helps you stay warm as it insulates the body amidst cold temperatures. In purchasing one, you should know the right type for your camping needs and select between the solid and inflatable ones.
There are numerous styles available. So, you should make sure to select a sleeping pad with a functional design.
Benefits of Using a Sleeping Pad for Camping
Warmth
Same with your sleeping bag, the best temperature rating may go a long way in providing you a better time outside not just at camp but on the trail as well.
Every sleeping pad uses an R-value to measure their ability to resist the cold and insulate. If the R-value is high, the sleeping pad is warmer. With this in mind, selecting a sleeping pad must be as intuitive as selecting your sleeping bag.
During cold weather, you should use a warm-weather pad will leave you shivering as the cold ground may sap your energy. A well-insulated pad solves it when the temperature drops.
During summer months, a lot of campers still use insulated sleeping pads, but packing less insulated ones may save you some weight.
Versatility
One of the best things about a sleeping pad is that you can also use it indoors. There are also sleeping pads that you can use on different temperatures and sleep surfaces.
Factors to Consider When Buying a Sleeping Pad for Your Needs
Sleeping pads play a big role than providing a soft place to sleep during night time as these will keep you warm. A sleeping pad serves as an insulating layer between the ground and the body.
In the warm summer night time, the ground is not very cold, but if you will sleep on snow, you will need a proper sleeping pad.
Know the R-Value
If you are wondering what is an R-value, it’s actually the measure of thermal resistance. In simple terms, it’s the measurement of how well an object or item insulates.
A sleeping bag manufacturer includes an R-value rating with a sleeping pad in the same fashion that sleeping bags give a temperature rating.
Generally, the sleeping pads are rated from 1 to 10, where 10 means the highest R-value that can resist the transfer of heat away from the body and will keep you warm.
Sleep Systems
Other sleeping bags feature an integrated sleeve to hold a sleeping pad. It keeps you and the sleeping bag from sliding off during night time. Before you purchase a sleeping pad, check the width of the sleeve.
Types of Sleeping Pads Available in the Market
There are many options when it comes to choosing a sleeping pad for camping. Aside from the ability of a sleeping pad to insulate you and its R-value, you should also consider your activity. Backpacking and car camping require various kinds of sleeping systems.
So, selecting the best sleeping pad for your activity is crucial. To have a quick look at the sleeping pads and the ability to keep you warm, you should know the common sleeping pads available in the market.
Foam Pad
While a foam pad is relatively thin and less comfortable, it provides the most bang for your money in terms of R-value. A foam pad has been around for some good reasons and it works.
It may not be the most comfortable, but it will do well to keep you warm. Remember that not every foam pad offers the same R-value, so make sure to find a high rating and take for consideration of your intended use and activity.
Air Pad
It is thinner and smaller than an air mattress and suited for backpacking. An air pad may also provide great insulation. But, not every air pad is made with insulation features.
In terms of air pads, it’s essential to look for the R-values as other air pads are made for summer camping while some are made with insulation inside and ideal for cold weather sleeping.
An insulated air pad is among the most comfortable and well-insulated pads in the market. It does well to securely hold and catch warm air to keep you warm throughout the night while still giving you a good night’s sleep.
Air Mattress
It is an ultra-comfortable and big pad ideal for summer car camping. It provides comfort, but it isn’t a good choice for winter camping.
Before you hit the mountains for a cold camping trip, ensure that you are ready by selecting the right and best sleeping pad. When buying for the best sleeping pad, always check for high R-value.
It should around 8 or 9 to keep you warmer. Take note that sleeping bags are only as good as your sleeping pad you match with it. If you have the right sleeping pad, you’ll b ready to enjoy a good night’s sleep even in cold temperatures.
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