Foam Sleeping Pad For Campers and Hikers

Are you currently preparing for a camping or hiking trip? If so, one of the most important items you’ll need is a good quality sleeping pad. These thin mats help you stay comfortable and warm, especially if you are going to be lying on the ground. And if you are going to be spending time in cold weather, they provide additional insulation when used with a sleeping bag. There are various types of these pads used by both campers and backpackers to consider.

Most campers choose self-inflating pads that are also known as open cell pads. There are various sizes to chooses from including the long, regular, or the two-third. Which one you decide to go with depends on your comfort level and how much weight you can carry. Foam sleeping mats are not inflatable. These lightweight and cheap mats provide you with just enough padding and insulation to make you forget you’re lying on the hard ground. Unlike the open cell models this variety is not compressible and bulky.

Another type of sleeping pad is the kind that is inflatable. These do not contain any foam. You have to inflate them with either an air pump or the old fashion way – by blowing air into them. These cushions work great under your sleeping bag. One of their greatest advantages is the fact that they are very affordable and their lightweight design makes them easy to carry. Some companies also make hybrid variations which are a combination of open and closed foam.

When shopping for one of these camping comforts there are a few things you should consider to make sure you’re buying the best one for both your budget and your needs. First, consider the length. If you are going to be camping in frigid conditions you’ll want to purchase one that’s a full length for maximum heat retention. However, most hikers choose the two-thirds lightweight variation since it is both easy to carry and use.

Another thing to look for when shopping for a sleeping cushion is its thickness. Thicker models provide more thermal insulation and protection. Most models are about one to two inches thick. Summer campers often use pads with one inch of thickness or less. Thicker models with more than two inches are often used for rocky terrains and cold weather camping.

Although foam cushions are not something that most people spend a lot of time thinking about, they really are something that should be a priority. This is especially true since not getting a good night’s sleep can really put a damper on any hiking or camping trip.