How to Choose the Best Sleeping Pad for Camping and Backpacking

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Therm-a-Rest BaseCamp™ sleeping pad offers lighter, softer fabrics than previous seasons on both top and bottom of the pad, improving the softness and feel while reducing weight and bulk.
Shop newer versionMade in USA.
View all Therm-a-Rest Self-inflating Pads| Best Use | Camping |
|---|---|
| Sleeping Pad Type | Self-inflating |
| Sleeping Pad Shape | Rectangular |
| Insulation Type | Open-cell Foam |
| R-Value | 5.0 |
| Stuff Sack Included | Yes |
| Pad Thickness (in.) | 2 inches |
| Gender | Unisex |
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Me: 40+, 6', 250+lbs I just returned from a weekend camping trip in the NJ Pine Barrens. I used the large version of the pad. It inflated quickly and easily (I gave it a couple of extra breaths after it finished self-inflating). I was very comfortable. The nighttime temps dropped to around 35 degrees and the pad never felt cold. The pad was larger then I expected (the specs are accurate, the issue was me). I am considering returning it for the regular size.
I used this on a 5 day backpacking trip in the Sierras, including camp sites over 10,000 ft on rocky soil. It self-inflated better than expected although that may take a while after being compressed all day, given that I unrolled it as soon as we made camp. With just a few puffs of air before bedtime, it provided a comfortable cushion all night and was easily re-packed the next day.
This has to be one of the most comfortable air mattresses I have ever slept on. It is really thick and cushy. There are probably smaller ones if you have to pack light, but I would recommend this for everyone else. I also like that it is made in the USA.
I weigh @ 230 and this pad really does a great job! I sleep very well on this, and it's very easy to transport, set up, and pack up. I've recommended this to friends.
I decided it was time for an upgrade after several nights of tossing and mornings with a lot of aches. I tried every self inflating pad (took a little while), and selected the Base Camp. While it is heavier than the UL pad it replaced, it is well worth the added weight in comfort and restful sleep. It inflates quickly even in freezing temps after being rolled up tightly. A few good breaths tops it off well. I was a little concerned that the surface may be a little slippery to my sleeping bag, it turned out to be a non-issue. I'm completely satisfied and highly recommend this pad.
I am primarily a side sleeper and tend to thrash around a bit. My hips and shoulders were a little sore after the second night sleeping on it. I did make an effort to stay flat on my back and it did feel comfortable, but I think side sleepers may need something a little thicker, or perhaps using a foam pad underneath this if you are car camping and weight isn't an issue.
I've camped with this several times. It's light, insulating, packs compactly, easy to inflate - a couple of good puffs post self-inflation and it's fairly firm. However, especially after a second night, I have a painfully sore back with this. It hurts to roll over onto either side at that point. Lying on my side, sometimes my hip will hit the ground and that's hard. I'm about 165lb. I'm going to look for something a little thicker. For my kids these are fantastic.
Bought it for my 12 year old son. The verdict is that he is very pleased with it overall. Inflated easy, compact, durable and comfortable. Guessing over time he will out grow this one but for someone his size and age a great little pad.
I bought this sleeping for GOBA and I was glad I did. It was a lot more comfortable than my old sleeping pad. It was easy to set up and easy to store
Packs up nicely and self-inflates for the most part. This is a great mat!