How to Choose a Sleeping Pad

Looking for a new sleeping pad? Overwhelmed by the wide array of choices available? You’ve come to the right place! Sleeping pads are one of the most overlooked pieces of gear in a camping setup; knowing how to choose a sleeping pad for your trip can be just as important as selecting a sleeping bag. Choosing the wrong one can ruin a camping trip and result in a sleepless night in the backcountry.

It’s important to remember, there’s more to sleeping pads than just what you find most comfortable. You should also consider the insulation, or R-value rating of your sleeping pad, and the material the pad is made of. In this blog post, I’ll explain what R-value is and why it is maybe the most important feature of any sleeping pad, and we’ll talk about the three types of sleeping pads and the customers who might find each of these most useful.

We’ll then discuss a few additional features to consider when buying a sleeping pad. I’ll finish by sharing a few of my staff picks as places to start when shopping. Because the world of sleeping pads includes everything from queen-sized inflatable mattresses all the way down to half-inch-thick foam sheets, before you begin shopping there are a few questions you should ask yourself:

• Where do I plan to use this sleeping pad? Will it be carried on backpacking trips, used at drive-in campsites, or as a spare mattress when guests visit?

• When do I plan to use this sleeping pad? What's the coldest weather you might go camping in? Are you a fair-weather camper, or will you ever be sleeping on snow?

The answers to these questions will help you know what R-value to look for when shopping for a sleeping pad and help to choose between the three types of sleeping pads. We'll return to these questions later in this blog post.

Next Adventure offers all the sleeping pads you need, check them out online or in our Portland and Sandy OR locations!

Why is R-value important ? When you’re lying inside your sleeping bag at night, you’re compressing the insulative material below you–this means that no matter how warm your sleeping bag is, it is doing nothing to protect you from the cold ground below. That’s where your sleeping pad comes in. Sleeping pads are designed with various techniques to prevent cold from seeping through from the ground, improving your sleep system when camping.

R-value is to a sleeping pad what a temperature rating is to a sleeping bag. R-value is a measure of resistance to heat transfer between the top and bottom of a sleeping pad (between the sleeper and the ground)--sleeping pad insulation if you will. The higher the R-value, the less heat transfer the pad will allow and the warmer the pad’s “temperature rating” will be. Knowing the coldest weather you might be camping in will determine the R-value you should look for in a new pad.

So how do you decode R-values? R-values range from about 1 to 8.5, and for the average user, the numerical R-value should match the number of seasons during which you plan to use the pad.

For example, if you only plan to camp in the summer, an R-value of 1 will be sufficient; if you plan to camp during 3 seasons (spring through fall), you’ll want an R-value of 3 or higher; and if you want a pad that will work year-round (or if you predict you might be camping when temperatures are below freezing), you’ll want an R-value of at least 4. An R-value higher than this might leave you sweating during hot summer nights, but if you plan to go camping on snow, the higher the R-value the better.

One last thing to keep in mind: R-values are accumulative. This means that if you stack two sleeping pads on top of each other, The total R-value will be the sum of the two individual pads. If you already own a three-season pad and want to try winter camping, buying a thin foam pad and stacking the two together will allow you to sleep comfortably in colder temperatures.

Choosing a range of R-values will help narrow your search for a sleeping pad, but then you will have to choose what type of pad you are looking for. This is where the intended use comes in. There are three general types of pads:

• Air Pads

• Open-Cell Foam/Self-Inflating Sleeping Pads

• Closed-Cell Foam Pads

Air pads are sleeping pads that are entirely filled with air. Because they are basically giant balloons, they are incredibly lightweight and compact, and are therefore a favorite amongst ultralight backpackers. Many people also consider these to be the most comfortable pads, as they can be very thick and allow the user to adjust air pressure inside the pad for maximum comfort.

However, air pads by default have a lower R-value (air is not a good insulator). While high R-value air pads exist, adding insulation to the pad makes them more expensive. Air pads also tend to be more fragile–though with a patch kit repairs are usually not difficult–so they are not ideal for heavy use or people camping with dogs. And they require a little more work to inflate at the end of the day.

These pads are an air-foam hybrid: they pack up pretty small for easy transport, but because they are filled with foam they inflate to full size on their own when removed from their packaging. Self-inflating pads usually have a higher R-value because the foam layer is insulative–they are also more durable and affordable than air pads.

They are firmer than air pads so especially when thick can be very comfortable. However, they tend to be bulkier and more cumbersome than air pads and can still be punctured so it is important to know how to care for and patch them.

Open-cell foam pads are also a top choice for outdoor enthusiasts seeking exceptional comfort and support. These pads feature an open-cell foam core, which provides superior cushioning and excellent weight distribution, mimicking the comfort of a traditional mattress. Unlike standard self-inflating pads, open-cell foam pads are often thicker and more durable, making them ideal for car camping or extended stays at base camps.

Closed cell sleeping pad construction are just sheets of foam so they do not compress, though they usually fold or roll up. They are lightweight, inexpensive, and have great insulation so are often used for layering with other pads during winter camping.

Because they are so light, they are also used for backpacking, though they are bulky and usually need to be attached to the outside of a backpack. They are the least comfortable of the sleeping pad options.

Finding the right sleeping pad is about more than just picking the first one you see—it’s about ensuring a comfortable night’s sleep so you can enjoy your adventure to the fullest. Here are some key features to consider:

Get the Right Size for Your Sleep Style

The size of your sleeping pad plays a huge role in your comfort. Check both the length and width to ensure it’s a good fit. If you’re taller (like me at 6’3”), you’ll need a "long" pad to keep your feet from hanging off. For active sleepers who tend to roll around, a wider pad can prevent you from sliding off during the night. Side sleepers should look for a thicker pad to cushion pressure points like your hips and shoulders, making for a more restful sleep.

Don’t Overlook Baffle Design

Baffle design refers to the internal structure and texture of the sleeping pad, and it can make a surprising difference in your comfort. Some pads have horizontal baffles, which provide consistent support across the pad, while others feature vertical baffles, offering a bed-like feel.

There are also contoured or quilted baffles, which can add a touch of luxury to your setup. Everyone has their own preference, so try out different options to find what works best for your sleeping style.

Consider Portability and Packed Size

Whether you’re backpacking, car camping, or traveling, the size and weight of your packed sleeping pad matter. For backpacking sleeping pads, prioritize lightweight pads that pack down smaller and won’t take up precious space in your pack. If you’re car camping or traveling with a lot of gear, make sure the pad can easily fit in your vehicle alongside the rest of your essentials.

While air mattresses provide excellent cushioning, they often fall short in one crucial area: insulation. Even if they are 20 inches or taller, without a barrier between you and the cold ground, air mattresses can lose heat quickly, leaving you chilly during the night, especially in cooler temperatures. This is where a sleeping pad comes in handy.

Placing a closed-cell foam pad or an insulated sleeping pad under your air mattress can significantly improve warmth by adding an extra layer of insulation. For car camping, where space isn’t an issue, this combo offers the best of both worlds: the comfort of an air mattress and the thermal protection of a sleeping pad. If you’re backpacking, however, a high-quality insulated sleeping pad is usually the better, lighter, and more practical choice.

There are many factors and variables to consider when choosing a sleeping pad, but by thinking about the intended use of the pad and looking for a pad with the proper R-value and construction, you should be able to narrow down your choices. If you can, it is always a good idea to lay on a sleeping pad and test it out before purchasing it.

The staff at Next Adventure will be happy to help you do this! Head into your local shop to see our many new and used sleeping pad options or to speak with a staff member and check out the staff picks below for some outdoor industry brand suggestions.

1. Are sleeping pads necessary for camping?

Absolutely! Sleeping pads provide insulation and cushioning, which are crucial for a good night’s sleep and maintaining body warmth.

2. What is the best sleeping pad for backpacking?

Lightweight air pads or closed-cell foam pads are ideal for backpacking due to their portability and durability.

3. Can sleeping pads be repaired if punctured?

Yes. Most air pads come with a patch kit, and additional repair supplies are available at Next Adventure.

4. How do I choose the right R-value?

Consider the season: R-values of 1–3 are great for summer, 3–5 for spring/fall, and 5+ for winter camping.

5. Do I need a separate pad for car camping and backpacking?

Not necessarily. However, car campers can opt for heavier, more luxurious pads, while backpackers prioritize lightweight options.