Best Camping Mattresses 2024 | Best Sleep in the Wilderness

Are you a camping enthusiast on a quest to find the best camping mattresses for 2024? If so, you’re in the right place. We know that a camping trip can be the perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. However, there’s nothing adventurous or tranquil about a poor night’s sleep on an uncomfortable mattress. It’s enough to make you reconsider your love for the great outdoors. But, fear not, for we have done the research and found the best camping mattresses to ensure you get a good night’s sleep under the stars.

You see, dear reader, a good camping mattress is like a good friend; it supports you, offers comfort when you need it, and doesn’t leave you with a sore back in the morning. With the right camping mattress, you can transform your camping experience from a back-breaking ordeal to a luxury retreat.

Now, we know what you’re thinking, “Surely, all camping mattresses are the same, right?” Wrong! There’s a world of difference between a high-quality camping mattress and a cheap, poorly made one. From the level of comfort and insulation to the weight and packed size, there are several factors that differentiate an excellent camping mattress from an average one.

So, whether you’re a seasoned camper or a newbie to the great outdoors, this blog post is just what you need to make an informed choice. We’ve tested and reviewed the top 15 camping mattresses for 2024, and we’ve broken them down into their pros and cons. So, sit back, relax, and let’s delve into the world of camping mattresses. You’re about to take the first step towards a great night’s sleep in the great outdoors.

What Are the Best Camping Mattresses?

When it comes to camping mattresses, it’s not just about picking the one with the most appealing color or the one that fits your budget. It’s more like matchmaking; you need to find a mattress that’s compatible with your camping style, comfort requirements, and environmental conditions.

Think of it like dating. You wouldn’t settle for the first person you meet, would you? Hell no! You’d want to know about their personality, their likes and dislikes, their strengths and weaknesses. Similarly, when choosing a camping mattress, you need to consider its weight, R-value, thickness, and of course, its pros and cons.

Now, you might be wondering, “What the heck is an R-value?” Well, in layman’s terms, it’s the measure of the mattress’s insulation. The higher the R-value, the warmer the mattress. So, if you’re someone who likes to camp in cold conditions, a mattress with a high R-value should be your go-to choice. Similarly, if you’re a lightweight backpacker, a mattress that’s light in weight and compact in size would be ideal.

In a nutshell, buying a camping mattress is not a one-size-fits-all affair. It’s a personal choice that depends on your individual needs and preferences. But don’t worry,

1. Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite

The Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite is a top-tier camping mattress that offers a delightful blend of comfort, portability, and warmth. This mattress is renowned for its ultralight design, making it an ideal choice for backpackers and hikers who want to minimize their load.

In more detail, the NeoAir XLite boasts a Thermacapture technology that traps radiant heat and a Triangular Core Matrix that minimizes convective heat loss, keeping you warm even in cold conditions. This mattress also boasts an impressive 2.5-inch thickness offering a plush sleeping surface while maintaining its lightweight design.

Specifications

• Weight: 12 oz
• R-Value: 4.2
• Thickness: 2.5 in

Pros	Cons
– Affordable – Lightweight – Compact	– Not the most insulating

7. Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol

The Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol is a durable and lightweight camping mattress that stands out for its closed-cell foam design. This mattress is a great choice for those who want a rugged, reliable and affordable sleeping pad.

In terms of specifics, the Z Lite Sol features a compact accordion-style shape and heat-trapping dimples. The ThermaCapture coating helps retain radiant heat, increasing overall warmth by nearly 20%. It’s an excellent choice for those looking for a durable, lightweight and affordable camping mattress.

Specifications

• Weight: 14 oz
• R-Value: 2.6
• Material: Closed-cell foam

Pros	Cons
– Very durable – Affordable – Lightweight	– Not very comfortable – Not insulating

8. Nemo Switchback

The Nemo Switchback is a durable, lightweight and compact camping mattress with a unique closed-cell foam design. This mattress is perfect for those who want a reliable and affordable sleeping pad that can withstand rough usage.

Going into more detail, the Switchback features a unique hexagonal nesting pattern that provides superior plushness. The taller nodes create more space for uncompressed sleeping bag insulation, trapping more warmth underneath you. It’s a fantastic choice for those seeking durability and affordability without compromising on comfort.

Specifications

• Weight: 14 oz
• R-Value: 2
• Material: Closed-cell foam

Pros	Cons
-Durable – Affordable – Lightweight – Compact	– Not comfortable – Not insulating

9. Exped MegaMat 10

The Exped MegaMat 10 is a luxury camping mattress that offers an unrivaled level of comfort and warmth. This mattress is perfect for those who value comfort above all else and don’t mind carrying a little extra weight.

In more detail, the MegaMat 10 features open-cell foam insulation and a stretchy top fabric surface that together provide a bed-like comfort. The high R-value indicates excellent insulation, making it a warm and cozy choice for camping in cold conditions.

Specifications

• Weight: 4 lbs 5 oz
• R-Value: 9.5
• Thickness: 3.5 in

Pros	Cons
– Very comfortable – Warm – Durable	– Heavy – Bulky – Expensive

10. REI Co-op Relax Airbed

The REI Co-op Relax Airbed is an affordable, comfortable, and durable camping mattress. This airbed is a great choice for those who want a comfortable sleep while camping without spending a fortune.

To go into specifics, the Relax Airbed features a sturdy coil-beam construction that provides a flat, supportive sleeping surface. The extra height offers the comfort of a traditional bed, making it a great choice for car camping or basecamp use.

Specifications

• Weight: 4 lbs 5 oz
• Height: 7.5 in

Pros	Cons
– Affordable – Comfortable – Durable	– Heavy – Bulky – Not insulating

11. Therm-a-Rest Luxury Map

The Therm-a-Rest Luxury Map is a camping mattress that offers a pleasant blend of comfort, insulation, and durability. This mattress is designed for those who want a luxurious sleep experience while camping, without worrying too much about the weight or packed size.

In more detail, the Luxury Map utilizes advanced pressure-mapping technology and die-cut foam to deliver a sleeping surface that’s supportive and comfortable. The mattress also boasts a high R-value, indicating that it provides excellent insulation – a boon for camping in colder conditions.

Specifications

• Weight: 2 lbs 9 oz
• R-Value: 5
• Thickness: 2.5 in

Pros	Cons
– Comfortable – Insulating – Durable	– Relatively heavy – Expensive

12.  Exped DeepSleep Mat 7.5

The Exped DeepSleep Mat 7.5 is a camping mattress that offers a superior level of comfort and warmth. This mattress is perfect for those who don’t mind carrying a bit extra weight for the sake of a plush sleep surface and excellent insulation.

Going into specifics, the DeepSleep Mat 7.5 features open-cell polyurethane foam insulation and a brushed polyester surface that together provide a bed-like comfort. The high R-value indicates excellent insulation, making it a warm and cozy choice for camping in cold conditions.

Specifications

• Weight: 2 lbs 9 oz
• R-Value: 6.2
• Thickness: 2.8 in

Pros	Cons
– Comfortable – Very insulating – Durable	– Heavy – Bulky – Expensive

13. Nemo Roamer

The Nemo Roamer is a plush, comfortable, and durable camping mattress. This mattress is perfect for those who value a luxurious sleep experience while camping and don’t mind carrying a bit of extra weight.

In more detail, the Roamer features open-cell foam insulation and a plush fabric surface that provide a bed-like comfort. Despite its plushness and comfort, the mattress packs down small, making it easier to carry than most mattresses of similar comfort levels.

Specifications

• Weight: 4 lbs 5 oz
• R-Value: 4
• Thickness: 3 in

Pros	Cons
– Plush – Comfortable – Durable	– Heavy – Bulky – Expensive

14. Big Agnes Insulated Double Z

The Big Agnes Insulated Double Z is a spacious, comfortable, and insulating camping mattress. This mattress is perfect for those who want a roomy sleep surface while camping, without sacrificing on insulation or comfort.

To go into specifics, the Double Z features high-volume valve for quick inflation and deflation, making it easy to set up and pack away. The PrimaLoft Silver insulation and heat reflective barrier offer excellent insulation, ensuring a cozy sleep surface in cooler temperatures.

Specifications

• Weight: 3 lbs
• R-Value: 4.5
• Thickness: 2.5 in

Pros	Cons
– Spacious – Comfortable – Insulating	– Heavy – Bulky – Expensive

15. Exped MegaMat Duo 10

The Exped MegaMat Duo 10 is a spacious, comfortable, and warm camping mattress. This mattress is perfect for couples or families who want a large sleep surface while camping, without sacrificing on comfort or warmth.

Digging deeper, the MegaMat Duo 10 features open-cell foam insulation and a stretch tricot fabric surface that together provide a bed-like comfort. The high R-value indicates excellent insulation, making it a perfect choice for camping in cold conditions.

Specifications

• Weight: 9 lbs 10 oz
• R-Value: 9.5
• Thickness: 3.5 in

Pros	Cons
– Very spacious – Comfortable – Warm	– Very heavy – Bulky – Expensive

Camping Mattresses Buying Advice

Identify Different Types of Camping Mattresses

Camping mattresses come in all shapes and sizes, and the right one for you boils down to your personal comfort, camping style, and budget. Here’s a simplified rundown of the different types you’ll encounter in your search for the best camping mattress:

• Self-Inflating Mats: These are the go-between of foam pads and air mattresses. They’re compact, offer decent insulation, and as the name suggests, they self-inflate—making them a popular choice among campers.
• Air Mattresses: For those of you who prioritize comfort over weight and packed size, air mattresses are the way to go. They’re the closest you can get to your bed at home while camping. Remember, a good air mattress can make all the difference between waking up refreshed or grumbling about a sore back.
• Foam Pads: Lightweight, durable, and budget-friendly, foam pads are a solid choice for backpackers and minimalist campers. They might not offer the plush comfort of an air mattress, but they’re reliable, and you won’t wake up flat on the ground due to a puncture!
• Cots: If you’re not a fan of sleeping on the ground, cots serve as a comfortable elevated bed. They’re bulky and heavier compared to other options, but for car campers and those who value a good night’s sleep, they’re worth considering.

And there you go! You’ve just taken the first step in your journey to find the perfect camping mattress. But don’t stop here. Knowing the types of camping mattresses is just the starting point—there’s a lot more to consider. For example, have you thought about the importance of a good camping fridge to keep your drinks cold and your food fresh? Check out our guide on Top-Rated Coolers for Outdoor Trips in 2024 for more insights.

Stay tuned for more practical camping mattresses buying advice, and before you know it, you’ll be a pro in no time!

Compare Sleeping Mats and Air Beds

Now that you’re familiar with the different types of camping mattresses, let’s delve into a more detailed comparison—sleeping mats versus air beds. Both are popular choices, but your camping style, comfort preferences, and the nature of the camping site are key factors that will determine the better option for you.

Sleeping Mats: These are the MVPs of the backpacking world. Why, you ask? Well, they’re lightweight, compact, and easy to carry around, making them a backpacker’s best friend. Plus, they offer a decent amount of comfort and insulation without the risk of deflation—a boon for those rocky camping sites. The downside? They might not be as comfortable as air beds, especially for side sleepers or those who prefer a softer surface.

Air Beds: Imagine being able to bring the comfort of your cozy bed to the great outdoors. Sounds dreamy, right? That’s exactly what air beds offer. They’re plush, comfortable, and can be inflated to your desired firmness. Perfect for car campers, family camping trips, or anyone who prioritizes a good night’s sleep. However, they’re bulkier, heavier, and require a pump for inflation. Not to mention, they’re susceptible to punctures and deflation.

So, which one should you choose? It’s a classic case of comfort versus convenience. If you’re a light packer or a long-distance hiker, a sleeping mat might be your best bet. But if you’re all about that comfy life and don’t mind the extra weight, an air bed could be your ticket to dreamland.

Remember, your camping setup is more than just your sleeping arrangement. For instance, your tent plays a major role in your camping experience. If you’re interested in inflatable options, check out our guide on the Best Inflatable Tent for Camping and Backpacking in 2024. Now, keep reading for more camping mattresses buying advice to ensure those sweet dreams under the stars.

Evaluate Camping Mattresses and Cots

Moving forward in our camping mattresses buying advice, let’s talk about another type of camping mattress—cots. Camping cots are a different breed entirely. They’re like the elevated version of camping mattresses, literally!

Camping Cots: These high-rise sleepers keep you off the ground, offering a different kind of comfort and a few added benefits. For starters, sleeping on a cot means you’re away from the ground’s cold, damp conditions. This elevation also keeps you safe from any creepy crawlies that might be lurking around your campsite. Additionally, cots are sturdy and provide a flat, firm sleeping surface, a feature appreciated by back sleepers and people with back issues.

However, like all good things, cots come with their share of challenges. They’re bulkier and heavier than sleeping mats or air beds, making them less ideal for backpackers. Plus, setting them up can take more time and effort.

So, what’s the verdict? Well, if you’re camping close to your vehicle or don’t mind the extra weight for the comfort, a cot might just be your perfect camping companion. However, if you’re an avid hiker needing to keep your pack light, cots might not be the best fit.

At this point, you might be wondering, “How do I choose the right type of camping mattress for me?” Don’t worry, our camping mattresses buying advice doesn’t end here. We’ll delve deeper into individual features to consider, so keep reading!

Assess Mattress Comfort and Thickness

We’ve talked about different types of camping mattresses, but let’s not forget one of the most important aspects—comfort. After a long day of hiking or exploring, you want to hit the sack and wake up feeling refreshed. For this, the comfort and thickness of your camping mattress matter significantly.

When it comes to comfort, the choice is subjective. What one person finds comfortable, another might not. However, a few general pointers can guide you. For instance, air beds and self-inflating mats offer adjustable firmness. You can inflate or deflate them to your liking, achieving the perfect balance between comfort and support.

As for thickness, it plays a dual role: comfort and insulation. Thicker mattresses provide more cushioning, which can be a blessing for side sleepers or anyone wanting a more bed-like feel. The added padding can also serve as a barrier against the cold ground—just like a hot water bottle for camping can keep you cozy on chilly nights.

But remember, there’s a trade-off. More thickness equals more weight and a larger packed size. So, it’s all about finding what works best for you—comfort and warmth or lighter pack weight?

As you can see, the camping mattresses buying advice we’re providing is all about balance and considering what’s most important for your camping experience. Next, let’s move on to another key factor—sidewall design. So stick around!

Understand Sidewall Design: Vertical vs. Tapered

Switching gears, let’s take a look at sidewall designs of camping mattresses. You’re probably wondering, “What does the sidewall design have to do with my good night’s sleep?” Well, quite a bit, actually.

In the world of camping mattresses, sidewall design generally falls into two categories—vertical and tapered.

Vertical sidewalls are precisely what they sound like. The edges of the mattress are perpendicular to the base, creating a flat, box-like shape. What’s the advantage? You get an even sleeping surface across the entire mattress. So, whether you’re a restless sleeper or one that likes to stretch out, you have the full surface area at your disposal.

On the other hand, tapered sidewalls have edges that angle inward towards the top of the mattress. This design reduces the overall weight and packed size of the mattress—a plus for backpackers or anyone looking to travel light. But keep in mind, this also means a slightly reduced sleeping surface.

So, vertical or tapered? The answer depends on what you value more—comfort or portability?

Remember, the best camping mattresses buying advice isn’t about telling you what to buy—it’s about giving you the knowledge to make an informed decision. Next up, we’re sizing things up—literally. Stay tuned as we discuss the impact of mattress size on your camping experience!

Consider Sizing: Width and Length

After sidewall design, the next thing on our camping mattresses buying advice radar is size. And no, we’re not talking about the size of your tent (although that’s important too). We’re talking about the dimensions of your camping mattress—width and length.

First up, width. Think about your sleeping habits. Are you a sprawling sleeper who enjoys starfishing in your sleep? Or perhaps you’re a compact sleeper who curls up like a dormouse? Having a mattress that matches your sleeping style can make all the difference. If you’re a wide sleeper, look for a mattress that’s wide enough to accommodate your nighttime escapades.

Next, consider the length. This one’s pretty straightforward: your mattress should be long enough to support you from head to toe. Imagine feeling a cold breeze on your toes in the middle of the night because your feet are hanging off the end of the mattress—that’s a camping nightmare you want to avoid!

But remember, bigger isn’t always better. Larger mattresses offer more comfort but are also bulkier to transport. Balance is key here.

That’s it for size. And remember, whether you’re a starfish or a dormouse, there’s a camping mattress out there just for you! Up next, we’ll delve into the ins and outs of mattress insulation. Buckle up, it’s going to be an informative ride!

Learn About Mattress Insulation: R-Value

Now that we’ve got sizing sorted, let’s move on to the next point in our camping mattresses buying advice journey: understanding mattress insulation, or what’s often referred to as R-Value.

What is R-Value, you ask? Well, in simple terms, it’s a measure of a camping mattress’s ability to resist heat flow. The higher the R-Value, the better the insulation. Think of it as a cozy winter coat for your camping mattress. A high R-Value means your mattress can keep you warm even on the frostiest of nights—pretty nifty, right?

But, how can you determine what R-Value you need? It depends on when and where you’re camping. For summer camping trips, a lower R-Value (around 1-2) will suffice. But if you’re planning a winter adventure or camping at high altitudes, you’ll need a mattress with a higher R-Value (5 or above).

And, don’t forget: your R-Value isn’t a standalone figure. It’s best complemented with a good quality sleeping bag and an insulated tent.

That’s it for insulation. Now, let’s move on to weight and packed size. Because trust me, there’s nothing more frustrating than trying to squeeze an oversized mattress into a tiny tent!

Weigh Up Weight and Packed Size

Alright, let’s talk about the elephant in the room, or rather, the mattress in the tent. Part of your camping mattresses buying advice has to include considering the weight and packed size of your potential mattress.

First up, weight. If you’re a backpacker or a hiker, every ounce matters. You don’t want to haul around a heavy mattress that feels like a sack of potatoes. A lightweight mattress (usually between 1 – 3 pounds) would be your best bet. On the other hand, if you’re car camping or setting up a base camp, weight may not be a significant factor. You could opt for a heavier, more luxurious mattress for maximum comfort.

Next, let’s consider packed size. This is essentially how much space the mattress occupies when it’s packed away. A bulky mattress might be comfy, but it can quickly become a nightmare if it takes up too much space in your backpack or car. Look for a mattress that compresses neatly and efficiently.

Remember, balance is key. You need to strike a harmony between comfort, weight, and packed size. It’s not always easy, but it’s definitely worth the effort for a good night’s sleep under the stars.

Now, let’s turn our attention to something that’s often overlooked when choosing camping mattresses—durability. Because, let’s face it, no one wants a mattress that gives up on you halfway through a trip!

Check Durability (Denier)

Just like a campfire cooking kit is a must for outdoor cuisine, a durable camping mattress is a non-negotiable for any serious camper. Durability, in camping mattress terms, often boils down to the denier of the material.

Wondering what on earth denier is? Don’t worry, it’s not as complicated as it sounds. In simple terms, denier is a unit of measurement that indicates the thickness of the individual threads used in fabric. The higher the denier, the more durable and heavy-duty the material will be.

Camping mattresses typically range from a denier of 50 to a whopping 150. If your camping trips tend to be more on the rugged side, or you frequently camp with pets or kids, you’ll want a mattress with a high denier for that extra toughness.

That said, a higher denier might add a bit more weight to your mattress. Remember the weight and packed size discussion? It’s all about finding that perfect balance to meet your camping needs.

Enough about durability, next up in your camping mattresses buying advice journey: let’s delve into the world of camping mattress valves. What? Valves matter? Absolutely! Let’s find out why.

Examine Valve Types

Diving deeper into our camping mattresses buying advice, let’s not overlook the importance of valve types. Trust me, the type of valve on your camping mattress can make a world of difference.

So, what are your options? Well, there are two main types: twist and pull valves, and one-way inflation valves.

Twist and pull valves are straight-forward and user-friendly. You just twist and pull to open, then twist to close. It’s as simple as that. However, one downside is that these valves can occasionally leak air if not closed properly.

On the other hand, one-way inflation valves are a bit more advanced. They’re designed to only allow air in one direction — in. This means that once you’re done inflating, you don’t have to rush to get the cap on before air starts escaping. Sounds convenient, right?

However, these one-way valves can be a bit more fiddly to use when it comes to deflating your mattress. It’s not a deal-breaker, but something to consider.

So, just like choosing between a thick or thin mattress, or considering the denier for durability, the choice of valve type will depend on your camping style and personal preferences.

The next section in our camping mattresses buying advice guide will focus on sizing. Remember, one size doesn’t fit all when it comes to a good night’s sleep in the great outdoors!

Comparison of Products

No.	Product Name	Weight	R-Value	Thickness	Pros	Cons
1	Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite	12 oz	4.2	2.5 in.	Lightweight, compact, insulating	Expensive, fragile material
2	Nemo Astro Insulated Lite	15 oz	3.5	2.5 in.	Lightweight, compact, decently warm	Not as insulating, expensive
3	Big Agnes Insulated AXL Air	15 oz	4.1	2.5 in.	Lightweight, compact, insulating	Expensive, not very thick
4	Sea to Summit Ultralight Insulated	15.5 oz	3.3	2 in.	Lightweight, compact, decently warm	Not very thick/insulating, expensive
5	Exped SynMat HL	18 oz	3	2 in.	Lightweight, compact	Not very insulating, expensive
6	REI Co-op Flash Insulated	18 oz	3.2	2.5 in.	Affordable, lightweight, compact	Not the most insulating
7	Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol	14 oz	2.6	[N/A]	Very durable, affordable, lightweight	Not very comfortable, not insulating
8	Nemo Switchback	14 oz	2	[N/A]	Durable, affordable, lightweight, compact	Not comfortable, not insulating
9	Exped MegaMat 10	4 lbs 5 oz	9.5	3.5 in.	Very comfortable, warm, durable	Heavy, bulky, expensive
10	REI Co-op Relax Airbed	4 lbs 5 oz	[N/A]	7.5 in.	Affordable, comfortable, durable	Heavy, bulky, not insulating
11	Therm-a-Rest Luxury Map	2 lbs 9 oz	5	2.5 in.	Comfortable, insulating, durable	Relatively heavy, expensive
12	Exped DeepSleep Mat 7.5	2 lbs 9 oz	6.2	2.8 in.	Comfortable, very insulating, durable	Heavy, bulky, expensive
13	Nemo Roamer	4 lbs 5 oz	4	3 in.	Plush, comfortable, durable	Heavy, bulky, expensive
14	Big Agnes Insulated Double Z	3 lbs	4.5	2.5 in.	Spacious, comfortable, insulating	Heavy, bulky, expensive
15	Exped MegaMat Duo 10	[N/A]	[N/A]	[N/A]	[N/A]	[N/A]

Conclusion

And there you have it, folks! The comprehensive guide to choosing and buying the best camping mattresses in 2024. We’ve hiked the proverbial trails, we’ve pitched the metaphorical tents, and we’ve slept on the literal mattresses to bring you this list.

Let’s be real, nobody likes to wake up feeling like they’ve wrestled a bear overnight. A good camping mattress can be the difference between waking up feeling refreshed and ready to tackle the day, and waking up feeling like you’ve slept on a bed of rocks.

Remember, a good camping mattress doesn’t merely provide comfort, it also insulates you from the cold ground, and, most importantly, it helps you recover from a day of outdoor activities with a good night’s sleep.

So, whether you’re a casual camper or an outdoor adventure enthusiast, investing in a quality camping mattress is the way to go. We hope this comprehensive guide has given you the information you need to make an informed choice.

So why should you listen to us? Well, we’ve spent countless hours researching, testing, and comparing different camping mattresses. We’ve taken into consideration various factors like weight, R-value, thickness, and price, and we’ve presented you with a list of the top 15 camping mattresses for 2024.

No need to thank us, fellow campers. After all, we’re all in this together, navigating the great outdoors one camping trip at a time. So, here’s to a good night’s sleep under the stars. Happy camping, everyone!