Best Camping Mattresses

A camping trip is an amazing occasion to enjoy the outdoors, try some new things, and spend quality time with your family. It’s important to get a good night’s sleep to enjoy the outdoors as much as possible during your trip.

A great camping trip starts with a quality mattress so you can get some rest and wake up refreshed and ready for your adventures of the day. Here are ten of the best camping mattresses you can find.

Summary

Here are the best camping mattresses right now:

Editor’s Choice - Sea to Summit UltraLight Insulated Sleeping Pad
Premium Pick - Coleman Airbed Cot
Bang for Your Buck - Therm-A-Rest RidgeRest Classic Sleeping Pad
Couples - Intex Dura-Beam Comfort-Plush 13” Queen Mid-Rise Airbed & Built-In Pump
Car Camping - Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Venture Sleeping Pad
Queen Size - Coleman SupportRest Plus PillowStop Queen Airbed and 120V Pump Combo
Bad Back - Exped MegaMat Duo 10 Sleeping Pad
Children - ALPS Mountaineering Vertex Air Bed
Self-Inflating - Rei Co-op Camp Dreamer XL Self-Inflating Deluxe Bed
Foam - Cabela’s Standard Sleeping Pad

Preview	Best Overall	Premium Pick	Best Value
Preview
Product Name	Sea to Summit UltraLight Insulated Sleeping Pad	Coleman Airbed Cot	Therm-A-Rest RidgeRest Classic Sleeping Pad
Specifications	Weight: 1 lb 4.9 oz or 1 lb 0.9 oz Size: 78x25x2” or 72×21.5×2” Price: $130 or $150	Weight: 45 lb Size: 78x59x22” Price: $220	Weight: 14 oz Size: 20×72” Price: $20
Pros	Two sizes available Inflate quickly with the stuff sack pump Supportive Antimicrobial fabric	Feels like a real bed Steel frame keeps you off the ground Coils support your back Versatile airbed you can use for guests Comes with an electric pump	Affordable and versatile Sleep directly on the ground Ridge design helps retain heat Durable polyethylene material Only weighs 14 ounces
Cons	Limited thickness Sizes are limited No plush top	Heavier than other options Steel frame is bulky Not ideal if you plan on moving your camp	Not as comfortable as an air mattress Only one size available Narrow design
Price	$96.93 at REI	$141.99 at Amazon	$19.95 at Amazon
See more	See the Sea to Summit UltraLight Insulated Sleeping Pad	See the Coleman Airbed Cot	See the Therm-A-Rest RidgeRest Classic Sleeping Pad

Bad Back
Children
Self-Inflating
Foam

Bad Back

Exped MegaMat Duo 10 Sleeping Pad

Ratings

Lightweight: 6/10
Easy to inflate: 10/10
Durability: 8/10
Easy to clean: 9/10
Comfort: 7/10

Bottom Line

Don’t let your bad back keep you from enjoying your camping trip! You can reduce back pain by improving your sleep posture with a supporting sleeping pad.

Air mattresses can feel too soft and lack the support you need if you have back problems. We recommend using a firm and think sleeping pad like the Exped MegaMat Duo 10 sleeping pad.

It’s almost four inches thick, and the compact design will provide you with the support you need for your back. The open-cell foam insulation keeps you warm while supporting your back.

The 50-denier polyester construction makes the sleeping pad durable and easy to clean. It’s a self-inflating mattress with small air chambers that make the pad feel more comfortable without reducing its firmness. You can choose from two sizes, including single and double.

Specs

Weight: 7 lb or 9 lb
Size: 77.6x52x3.9” or 72x41x3.9”
Price: $370 or $380

product_pros

Pros	Cons
Firm sleeping pad Self-inflating Open-cell foam insulation Two sizes available Great for a healthy sleep posture	Other air mattresses might feel more comfortable There are lighter options available Thin design

Children

ALPS Mountaineering Vertex Air Bed

Ratings

Lightweight: 7/10
Easy to inflate: 8/10
Durability: 7/10
Easy to clean: 8/10
Comfort: 9/10

Bottom Line

This twin size air bed is comfortable and fun to use. If you are planning a camping trip with your family, we think this air bed is an ideal choice for your children.

The compact design will help you save space when you pack your gear, and it’s easy to fit more than one of those air beds in a tent. It comes with a rechargeable pump so you can inflate and deflate the air mattress easily. You can also add more air as needed.

The PVC-free fabric is easy to clean, and the coil system will help your children adopt a healthy sleeping posture. Your children will love the comfortable feel and colorful design of this air bed.

Specs

Weight: 3 lb
Size: 80x39x6”
Price: $100

product_pros

Pros	Cons
Comfortable feel Easy to clean Compact design Colorful design Lightweight	Only one size available Limited insulation Low foundation

Self-Inflating

Rei Co-op Camp Dreamer XL Self-Inflating Deluxe Bed

Ratings

Lightweight: 7.5/10
Easy to inflate: 10/10
Durability: 8/10
Easy to clean: 7/10
Comfort: 8/10

Bottom Line

A self-inflating camping mattress will help you save time. We recommend the Rei Co-Op Camp Dreamer XL Self-Inflating Deluxe bed because it only measures 11×30” when you fold and pack it.

It inflates to a height of four inches and provides you with a comfortable and supportive surface. The welded seams make the air bed more durable, and the horizontal foam cores will support your back and help you wake up refreshed.

It’s a lightweight pad that you can use for a backpacking trip. You can inflate or deflate the air bed by adjusting the valve settings. You can also adjust the firmness of the pad.

The synthetic insulation will keep you warm and adds to the comfortable feel of the mattress.

Specs

Weight: 6 lb
Size: 78x32x4”
Price: $170

product_pros

Pros	Cons
Self-inflating Adjust the firmness of the mattress Horizontal foam cores Compact design Synthetic insulation	There are lighter options available Only one size Limited height

Foam

Cabela’s Standard Sleeping Pad

Ratings

Lightweight: 6/10
Easy to inflate: 7/10
Durability: 9/10
Easy to clean: 9/10
Comfort: 7/10

Bottom Line

If you usually sleep on a foam mattress or need additional support, we recommend using a foam sleeping pad for your next camping trip. The Cabela’s Standard Sleeping Pad is an ideal choice thanks to its compact and supportive design.

The two inches of foam cushioning combine with small air chambers to deliver the comfort and support you need. It’s not as thick as traditional air mattresses and is ideal for back sleepers.

The 150-denier polyester fabric makes the sleeping pad durable. The textured bottom prevents the pad from moving during the night. There are three sizes to choose from, so you can find the perfect fit.

Specs

Weight: 2 lb, 3 lb or 4 lb
Size: 77×20, 77×25 or 77×30
Price: $70 to $90

product_pros

Pros	Cons
Foam padding feels supportive 150-denier polyester Textured bottom Small air chambers Three sizes to choose from	Limited height Foam adds to the weight of the pad Other options are lighter

Editor’s Choice

Sea to Summit UltraLight Insulated Sleeping Pad

Ratings

Lightweight: 7/10
Easy to inflate: 8/10
Durability: 9/10
Easy to clean: 10/10
Comfort: 7/10

Bottom Line

This Sea to Summit sleeping pad is one of the best products we found. We like the smart design of the stuff sack that comes with it. There is an AirStream pump built into the stuff sack that you can use to blow air into the mattress and inflate it with minimal efforts.

The antimicrobial fabric of this sleeping pad is another standout feature. It’s ideal for backpacking or long camping trip during which you might not have the opportunity to clean your mattress.

The 40-denier ripstop nylon fabric is durable, easy to clean, and will insulate you from the ground. The sleeping pad uses a few small cells rather than large air chambers. This feature makes the mattress more durable and supportive.

We highly recommend this mattress because it’s affordable, comfortable, and ideal for 3-season camping.

Specs

Weight: 1 lb 4.9 oz or 1 lb 0.9 oz
Size: 78x25x2” or 72×21.5×2”
Price: $130 or $150

Pros	Cons
Two sizes available Inflate quickly with the stuff sack pump Supportive Antimicrobial fabric	Limited thickness Sizes are limited No plush top

Premium Pick

Coleman Airbed Cot

Ratings

Lightweight: 3/10
Easy to inflate: 10/10
Durability: 8/10
Easy to clean: 9/10
Comfort: 10/10

Bottom Line

This airbed cot from Coleman is an excellent choice if you want a mattress that is comfortable and supportive. It’s a thick air mattress on a steel frame.

The steel frame is the next best thing to a real bed, but it adds to the bulk and weight of the gear you are transporting. If you plan on moving from one camp to another during your trip, this airbed cot won’t be a convenient option. However, it’s a great way to get a good night’s sleep if you don’t plan on moving your camp.

The mattress uses coils to support your back. The sewn-in cover helps secure the airbed to the frame, which contributes to making the airbed feel like a real bed.

The mattress comes with an electric pump, and the Double Lock valve prevents air from leaking. The mattress is easy to inflate and deflate. It doesn’t take up much space once you roll it, but the frame will take up space.

Specs

Weight: 45 lb
Size: 78x59x22”
Price: $220

Pros	Cons
Feels like a real bed Steel frame keeps you off the ground Coils support your back Versatile airbed you can use for guests Comes with an electric pump	Heavier than other options Steel frame is bulky Not ideal if you plan on moving your camp

Bang for Your Buck

Therm-A-Rest RidgeRest Classic Sleeping Pad

Ratings

Lightweight: 10/10
Easy to inflate: N/A
Durability: 8/10
Easy to clean: 8/10
Comfort: 6/10

Bottom Line

We recommend this sleeping pad if you aren’t afraid of roughing it. It’s an excellent option if you are camping on a budget or need a lightweight sleeping pad that will fit in your pack.

This sleeping pad isn’t as comfortable as an air mattress, but it will insulate you from the ground, and the supportive design will help you wake up refreshed.

This Therm-A-Rest sleeping pad uses cross-linked polyethylene. It’s a durable material that doesn’t let cold from the ground seep through. You can use this pad to sleep directly on the ground.

The ridges in the sleeping pad help retain heat and provide you with some support. You will save time since there is no need to inflate this sleeping pad, and you can roll it and pack it within a few seconds in the morning.

Specs

Weight: 14 oz
Size: 20×72”
Price: $20

Pros	Cons
Affordable and versatile Sleep directly on the ground Ridge design helps retain heat Durable polyethylene material Only weighs 14 ounces	Not as comfortable as an air mattress Only one size available Narrow design

Couples

Intex Dura-Beam Comfort-Plush 13” Queen Mid-Rise Airbed & Built-In Pump

Ratings

Lightweight: 7/10
Easy to inflate: 10/10
Durability: 8/10
Easy to clean: 10/10
Comfort: 9/10

Bottom Line

The built-in electric pump allows you to inflate this camping mattress with the touch of a button. The mattress fills up within a few minutes, and you can easily add more air during your camping trip so that the mattress will retain its firmness.

The waterproof material prevents moisture from building up on the mattress. You can easily clean the mattress with a damp cloth and let it dry.

The dimensions are close to a traditional queen bed. The mattress is 13” off the ground, which is ideal for insulating you and retaining warmth.

We recommend this inflatable mattress for couples because of the dimensions and comfortable plush top. The fiber-tech material makes the mattress durable, and the Dura-Beam design reduces the weight of the mattress. The mattress can support the weight of two people thanks to these features.

Specs

Weight: 17.45 lb
Size: 60x80x13”
Price: $57

Pros	Cons
Supports the weight of two people Comfortable and supportive Waterproof materials Plush top Built-in electric pump	Bulky design Some couples might prefer a larger mattress Heavier than other camping mattresses

Car Camping

Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Venture Sleeping Pad

Ratings

Lightweight: 9/10
Easy to inflate: 9/10
Durability: 7/10
Easy to clean: 6/10
Comfort: 6/10

Bottom Line

We recommend this sleeping pad from Therm-A-Rest for car campers because it’s an excellent compromise between comfort and a lightweight and compact design.

We think this sleeping pad is ideal for car camping or backpacking because you can easily put it away in the morning and set it up at night. Planning a car camping trip can be challenging because you have to figure out how to pack your vehicle to have access to essential items.

This compact sleeping pad is perfect for sleeping in the backseat of your car, in the bed of your truck, in a tent, or directly on the ground. It’s durable, and the horizontal chambers will insulate you and keep you warm.

The 75D polyester fabric makes the sleeping pad durable, even if you decide to sleep on the ground. The self-inflation feature will help you save time, and there are three sizes to choose from.

Specs

Weight: 1 lb 4 0z, 1 lb 5 oz, 1 lb 12 oz
Size: 20x66x2”, 20x72x2”, 25x77x2”
Price: $55 to $70

Pros	Cons
75-denier polyester Self-inflating sleeping pad Three sizes to choose from Compact and lightweight	Other mattresses feel more comfortable Thin design Material isn’t antimicrobial

Queen Size

Coleman SupportRest Plus PillowStop Queen Airbed and 120V Pump Combo

Ratings

Lightweight: 5/10
Easy to inflate: 9/10
Durability: 8/10
Easy to clean: 9/10
Comfort: 10/10

Bottom Line

A queen size camping mattress is ideal for a romantic camping trip, but we also recommend that size if you plan on sleeping by yourself and want more room.

This Coleman airbed features reinforced sides for support and durability. The coil system will support your back and help you adopt a healthy sleeping posture. The coils help the air mattress feel like a real bed.

The high foundation of the air mattress makes it more comfortable and contributes to insulating you from the ground. The raised head of the mattress maintains your pillow in place and adds to the real bed feel.

The Double Lock valve prevents leaks, and the mattress comes with an electric pump so you can inflate it quickly.

Specs

Weight: 20 lb
Size: 78x60x18”
Price: $100

Pros	Cons
Durable and comfortable High foundation Raised head Coil system Electric pump	Weight Only one size available High foundation takes up more space in your tent

Bad Back

Exped MegaMat Duo 10 Sleeping Pad

Ratings

Lightweight: 6/10
Easy to inflate: 10/10
Durability: 8/10
Easy to clean: 9/10
Comfort: 7/10

Bottom Line

Don’t let your bad back keep you from enjoying your camping trip! You can reduce back pain by improving your sleep posture with a supporting sleeping pad.

Air mattresses can feel too soft and lack the support you need if you have back problems. We recommend using a firm and think sleeping pad like the Exped MegaMat Duo 10 sleeping pad.

It’s almost four inches thick, and the compact design will provide you with the support you need for your back. The open-cell foam insulation keeps you warm while supporting your back.

Specs

Weight: 7 lb or 9 lb
Size: 77.6x52x3.9” or 72x41x3.9”
Price: $370 or $380

Pros	Cons
Firm sleeping pad Self-inflating Open-cell foam insulation Two sizes available Great for a healthy sleep posture	Other air mattresses might feel more comfortable There are lighter options available Thin design

Children

ALPS Mountaineering Vertex Air Bed

Ratings

Lightweight: 7/10
Easy to inflate: 8/10
Durability: 7/10
Easy to clean: 8/10
Comfort: 9/10

Bottom Line

This twin size air bed is comfortable and fun to use. If you are planning a camping trip with your family, we think this air bed is an ideal choice for your children.

The PVC-free fabric is easy to clean, and the coil system will help your children adopt a healthy sleeping posture. Your children will love the comfortable feel and colorful design of this air bed.

Specs

Weight: 3 lb
Size: 80x39x6”
Price: $100

Pros	Cons
Comfortable feel Easy to clean Compact design Colorful design Lightweight	Only one size available Limited insulation Low foundation

Self-Inflating

Rei Co-op Camp Dreamer XL Self-Inflating Deluxe Bed

Ratings

Lightweight: 7.5/10
Easy to inflate: 10/10
Durability: 8/10
Easy to clean: 7/10
Comfort: 8/10

Bottom Line

A self-inflating camping mattress will help you save time. We recommend the Rei Co-Op Camp Dreamer XL Self-Inflating Deluxe bed because it only measures 11×30” when you fold and pack it.

It’s a lightweight pad that you can use for a backpacking trip. You can inflate or deflate the air bed by adjusting the valve settings. You can also adjust the firmness of the pad.

The synthetic insulation will keep you warm and adds to the comfortable feel of the mattress.

Specs

Weight: 6 lb
Size: 78x32x4”
Price: $170

Pros	Cons
Self-inflating Adjust the firmness of the mattress Horizontal foam cores Compact design Synthetic insulation	There are lighter options available Only one size Limited height

Foam

Cabela’s Standard Sleeping Pad

Ratings

Lightweight: 6/10
Easy to inflate: 7/10
Durability: 9/10
Easy to clean: 9/10
Comfort: 7/10

Bottom Line

The two inches of foam cushioning combine with small air chambers to deliver the comfort and support you need. It’s not as thick as traditional air mattresses and is ideal for back sleepers.

Specs

Weight: 2 lb, 3 lb or 4 lb
Size: 77×20, 77×25 or 77×30
Price: $70 to $90

Pros	Cons
Foam padding feels supportive 150-denier polyester Textured bottom Small air chambers Three sizes to choose from	Limited height Foam adds to the weight of the pad Other options are lighter

How to Choose the Best Mattress for Camping

The best camping mattress depends on how you plan your camping trip. If you plan on spending your entire trip at a single campsite, you can prioritize comfort and shop for an air mattress without making size or weight one of your top concerns.

If you plan on moving from one campsite to another during your trip, look for a mattress that you can deflate and inflate easily. A lightweight mattress with a compact design will be more convenient. Pay attention to how easy it is to deflate and fold the mattress into its pack.

If you are planning a backpacking trip, we recommend shopping for a thin and firm mattress. Pay attention to its weight and figure out how much space it will take up in your backpack.

Insulation is another important insulation. Unless you can sleep on a cot, your camping mat will be in contact with the floor of your tent or with the ground. If you expect cold temperatures at night, invest in a mattress with foam insulation.

Ask yourself how much firmness and comfort you need. It’s important to get a good night’s sleep so you can enjoy yourself the next day. Most camping mattresses aren’t as comfortable as a real bed, but camping gear manufacturers are always looking for new ways to improve their air beds and sleeping mats to deliver comfort and support.

A self-inflating mattress will help you save time. If you don’t want to use a self-inflating mattress, look for one that is compatible with an electric pump. A valve that prevents leaks is another useful feature to consider.

There are a few additional features you might want to look for, such as a plus top for comfort, a fabric that is easy to clean and fix, and reinforced sides that improve support and durability. The design of the air chambers and insulation layers will also determine how supportive the mattress is, and whether or not it feels close to a real bed.

If you aren’t sure which camping mattress is right for you, we recommend the Sea to Summit UltraLight Insulated Sleeping Pad. It’s the perfect compromise between comfort and convenience. This sleeping pad uses foam insulation and is a suitable option for camping and backpacking.

Best Camping Mattresses

Summary

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Editor’s Choice

Premium Pick

Bang for Your Buck

Couples

Car Camping

Queen Size

More

Bad Back

Children

Self-Inflating

Foam

Editor’s Choice

Premium Pick

Bang for Your Buck

Couples

Car Camping

Queen Size

Bad Back

Children

Self-Inflating

Foam

How to Choose the Best Mattress for Camping

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