REI Co-op  Camp Bed 2.5 Self-Inflating Pad

First, I must point out that I have 4 of the 3.5 version of this pad, and a 1.75 trekker, so I am in a position to cross review these pads. It seems so scary that so many people report tiny pin holes, but strange that I have never had this happen to any of these pads, nor any other brand of quality inflatable air mattress (NOT including cheap mattresses, mind you, but reputable name camping mattresses.) It seems likely that these were defective, and lucky that I never had that happen. On the other hand, I weigh 135 to 145 pounds (I fluctuate), and when I am backpacking, I am very thorough setting up a clean an level spot, or I use a Hennessy hammock, which is most comfortable with either a 2.5 or 3.5 version of this mattress. I also use an outdoor products 7 x 9 packable tarp underneath the footprint for the tent or use the hammock, and then use either the rain fly that comes with a Hennessy, or an Eno rain fly that is larger to set up over the tent and it's rain fly, or over the hammock. This must be why I have never punctured a quality air mattress. When I use a tent, and I have a review of the Big Agnes UL2 platinum that is so light that it now opens up more of an option to carry this 2.5 pad. The 3.5 I feel is just plain too big and heavy to backpack with at all, although it is possible if you REALLY wanted the most comfy bed possible, but the 2.5 is so close to the comfort level of the 3.5, I really prefer this one as my favorite for every situation. There is no substitute for a good night's sleep, and I'm willing to carry whatever weight necessary (to a point) to have that. Most of the time, a Hennessy hammock is the best option if you have the trees or posts, and with one of these pads (even a smaller thinner pad is VERY comfortable in a hammock, especially the a-symetrical Hennessy.) If you DON'T have trees or posts, yes a Hennessy is designed to be a bivy as well, but if you are carrying the extremely light weight UL2 platinum, it is then the best option on a level spot. The 1.75 Trekker version of this pad is thinner and narrower by necessity to be smaller and lighter for backpacking, and while it is a very nice and comfortable pad considering that, it is nowhere near as comfortable as the 2.5 and the 3.5. But, like I was saying, the 3.5 is so big and heavy that it is really a home use or car camping pad. The 2.5 is by far the best option over all unless you really need to shave off weight and space for a longer haul. Also, if you know you will be using a hammock exclusively, a 1.75 Trekker will still be extremely comfortable, although the width of the 2.5 and the 3.5 hold a perfect level position without shifting around like a smaller pad does in a Hennessy, making it so you might have to re-adjust it in the middle of the night. I sure hope I never have the pin hole experiences others talk about, but there must be a reason that I have never punctured a mattress with the set up I described earlier.

I first reviewed these pads in 2009. At that time I was in love, and bought two more as gifts for friends. While I still love the comfort and size of the pad, I've had to replace each pad at least once due to leaking valves. Now my most recent replacement pad is less than a year old and has developed a number of slow but steady leaks all along one edge of the pad, about two inches in from the seam. I think the materials are flawed and will not stand up to even occasional use. Sadly, I can no longer recommend this pad.