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Your sleeping bag only insulates the parts of you that aren’t squashed flat. Underneath you the fill is compressed, so the ground pulls heat away all night. A good sleeping pad fixes that, and it decides whether you sleep well or just lie there.
How we pick: this guide compares products using manufacturer specifications and published reviews. It is not based on our own hands-on testing. Prices and availability change, so check the current listing before you buy.
Quick picks
| Pad | Type | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT | Inflatable | Lightweight backpacking in three seasons |
| Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol | Closed-cell foam | Durable, no-fuss, never goes flat |
| Sea to Summit Ether Light XT | Insulated inflatable | Side sleepers wanting extra comfort |
| Klymit Static V | Inflatable | Budget backpacking |
| Self-inflating camp pad | Foam and air | Car camping comfort |
What to look for
R-value (warmth). R-value measures how well a pad resists heat loss. Higher is warmer. As a rough guide, an R-value around 2 suits summer, 3 to 4 covers most three-season camping, and 5 or more is for cold ground and winter. Since 2020 many brands test to the ASTM F3340 standard, so values are comparable between brands.
Weight and packed size. Inflatables pack small and weigh the least. Foam pads are bulkier but cost less.
Thickness and comfort. Side sleepers usually want a thicker pad than back sleepers. Check width and length too, since a pad that is too narrow lets your arms hang off.
Durability. Foam pads can’t puncture. Inflatables can, so carry the repair kit.
Noise. Some inflatables crinkle when you move. Check reviews if you are a light sleeper.
Our picks
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT
Best for: lightweight three-season backpacking.
A long-running favourite among ultralight backpackers. It packs very small and has an R-value of about 4.5, which covers most three-season trips.
- Light and compact
- Warm for its weight
- Needs care around thorns and rough ground
Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol
Best for: people who want something that just works.
A folding closed-cell foam pad with an R-value of about 2. It can’t puncture, doubles as a camp seat and is good as a second layer under an inflatable in winter.
- Nothing to inflate or repair
- Inexpensive
- Bulky and not very thick, so side sleepers may find it firm
Sea to Summit Ether Light XT
Best for: comfort-focused backpackers and side sleepers.
A thicker insulated inflatable designed to feel more like a mattress. It weighs more than the ultralight options but is more comfortable on hard ground.
- Plush, supportive feel
- Good warmth for three-season use
- Costs more than most pads
Klymit Static V
Best for: getting started on a budget.
A simple, light inflatable with a V-shaped chamber layout that helps keep you centred. Its R-value is low (about 1.3), so it suits summer and mild nights.
- Low price
- Easy to inflate
- Not suitable for cold ground
Self-inflating camping pad
Best for: car camping.
When weight doesn’t matter, a thick self-inflating pad is the comfortable choice. Look for a generous width, a thickness of 3 inches or more, and an R-value of at least 3 if nights get cold.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a pad if my sleeping bag is warm? Yes. A bag’s rating assumes you are on a pad. See our sleeping bag guide for how bag ratings work.
Can I stack two pads? Yes. R-values add together, so a foam pad under an inflatable is a common winter set-up.
How do I find a leak? Inflate the pad, then run soapy water over it and look for bubbles. Mark the spot and patch it with the repair kit.
