Are Self Inflating Sleeping Pads Comfortable? Here’s Our Answer!
You might plan to purchase some new camping gear for the season, and you’re thinking of trying a self-inflating sleeping pad. You’re probably wondering: Are self inflating sleeping pads comfortable?
Yes, self-inflating sleeping pads are comfortable. They’re worth a purchase if you plan on sleeping outdoors. Camping regulars understand the importance of a good night’s sleep and having a great sleeping pad is half the battle.
What Are the Pros of a Self-Inflating Sleeping Pad?
Self-inflating sleeping pads are the most comfortable option when sleeping outside. Here is why we recommend them:
Insulation
Self-inflating sleeping pads have higher R-values than closed-cell foam and inflatable mats. An R-value rating describes how well your sleeping pad will resist heat transfer. A higher R-value means you will be warmer at night while you are sleeping. You can read more on this theme in our article, describing R-Value.
Foam
The foam used inside of a self inflating sleeping pad is open cell foam. Open-cell foam is thicker than its closed-cell foam cousin. Because of this, the foam provides great back support and cushioning.
Inflatable
Although there is foam inside of a self-inflating sleeping pad, there’s air within the pad. The open-cell foam pulls the air into the pad by itself. That is why we call them self-inflating pads.
When the self inflation process is done, you can manually add air into the sleeping pad using your breath. The air alone makes this sleeping pad more comfortable than others!
Easily Adjustable
Whether you prefer a soft or firm sleep surface, your self-inflating sleeping pad will do the trick and provide comfort. You can easily add to and adjust the firmness of your sleeping pad with the air valve.
Sleeping pad manufacturers have designed their inflatable sleeping pads with clip buttons so you can connect pads. This allows you to create a sleeping platform with the perfect width and firmness for a splendid night’s sleep in the outdoors.
Durability
One of the greatest things about a self-inflating sleeping pad is its durability. A self-inflating sleeping pad uses a combination of foam and air to provide comfort while you camp.
Your sleeping pad will be still effective in the event of a tear or puncture. The open-cell foam will hold its shape and provide insulation and cushioning, even if the camping mattress’s outer layer is broken.
What Are the Cons of a Self-Inflating Sleeping Pad?
Although self-inflating sleeping pads are comfortable to use, they do have a few cons. Here they are:
Weight
Self-inflating sleeping pads are heavier than closed-cell foam pads. A closed-cell foam pad weighs around 6 ounces, and a self-inflating sleeping pad weighs in at around 16 ounces or 1 pound.
A self-inflating sleeping pad might not be the best option for a backpacking trip because of its weight and packability compared to other camping mattresses on the market. If you’re looking for an ultralight option, a closed-cell foam pad should be on your list.
Packability
Self inflating sleeping pads are not as compact as inflatable sleeping pads or air mats. This can make them difficult to pack into small places such as a backpack. They do fold and roll up into a packable size for travel.
Are Self Inflating Sleeping Pads Comfortable? The KAMUI Self-Inflating Sleeping Pad is!
A comfortable sleeping pad can make all the difference in your next camping trip. Getting a good night’s sleep allows you to enjoy the exciting daytime activities associated with camping! Our favorite option for a camping mat is the KAMUI self-inflating sleeping pad. This is what it has to offer:
- 2-inch thick
- Made of heavy-duty polyester
- R-value of 5.7
- Stored size of 25 x 7.5 inches
- Convenient carry bag
- Connects to other sleeping pads
Comfort While Camping
A self-inflating sleeping pad is one of the easiest and least expensive ways to improve your comfort and sleep while camping. So, if you’re still thinking about getting a self inflating sleeping pad, it’s a yes from us.
We hope this article helped you with your “Are self inflating sleeping pads comfortable” question, and that you’ve found your answer.
