A comfortable sleeping pad is one of the best pieces of camping gear you can have in your tent. Not only will your sleeping pad provide much-needed cushioning when you’re sleeping on the ground, it will also help keep you warm when the weather gets chilly. But which type is right for you?
Air Pads
As their name implies, air pads need to be inflated, either with your breath or with a hand pump.
- Pros: Air pads are great for backpacking trips because they’re very lightweight and comfortable.
- Cons: The lighter and more compact the air pad, the more expensive it tends to be. They can also deflate somewhat during the night, and are prone to rips and tears.
Self-inflating
Self-inflating sleeping pads combine open-cell foam insulation and air. Some are foldable and designed for backpacking trips, whereas others roll up, and are best for car camping trips.
- Pros: Self-inflating pads offer excellent insulation and make it easy to adjust the firmness by releasing or adding air. They’re also made of stronger fabric than air pads, which makes them a good choice if you’re traveling with pets or children.
- Cons: Self-inflating pads are less compact than air pads, and heavier than simple foam pads.
Closed-Cell Foam Pads
These basic backpacking pads are made of dense foam.
- Pros: You can carry them outside your pack without fear of damage, since they aren’t prone to punctures or damage. They also offer good insulation.
- Cons: Many campers find foam pads to be the least comfortable type. They also tend to be stiff and bulky.
Ready to enjoy a relaxing camping trip by the shores of the Suwannee River? Give us a call or contact us online to book your next trip today!
