Better sleeping pads and mats?

Mack M

Active member
I have not used the Hest, but might I suggest running the Exped mat a bit softer than what feels right? It took me a bit to figure this out on my own, but the quantity of air should be less than what is intuitive if you are used to 1" or 2" mats. It will be much softer to the touch if you push down on it. What you are aiming for is just enough air for your hips to not touch bottom when sleeping on your side. This gives you maximum support AND cushion, and feels very much like a real mattress such as what you might have at home. Letting a bit of air out made a HUGE difference for me. Give it a try.
Ok thanks, yeah I let out some, but maybe not enough, it seemed like the foam in the Exped didn't do much except increase the R value. I'm going to order the Hest and give it a shot and lower the air. Thanks again for the tip.
 

Trail Talk

Well-known member
Our Exped Downmats are bomber and have been all over the world with us. Were the envy of camp in the Himalayas. Buy once, cry once 😉
 

montechie

Active member
Another one for the Megamat, I just waited for one of the big REI/Backcountry.com sales with a ~30% discount or so. I even went to the Megamat from a past of high end pads and this one I actually have to set my alarm again to keep from sleeping in too late. I'm sure you can find a cheap Amazon pad, just dig through for reviews mentioning valves, holes can easily be patched if you're prepared, but valves not so much.
 

TwinStick

Explorer
I am like the princess and the pea.
What has made all the difference for me is, using 2 air mattresses. I make one firmer and one softer. That was the ticket. I sleep as good or better camping than I do at home in my adjustable bed. But we vehicle camp. No backpacking. Also, I found that I sleep better with blankets and not a sleeping bag.
 

FAW3

Adventurer
Vehicle based comfortable sleeping is a system.

My pad for 20 years has been the Thermarest Basecamp. This type of pad is available from several vendors, comes in various sizes and thicknesses. It mostly self inflates and the valve lets you set your support level. Ideal for vehicle-based use, too bulky for backpacking.

If you can get to an REI store...most have a display of mats and allow you lay them on a platform or the floor to try out. Personal preferences are so varied...you should try before you buy.

Cots were previously mentioned. I will just say I poo-pooed cots for years, until I tried one. For both tent and truck bed camping they are sublime. A cot gives you the initial support & ventilation space the form the foundation of a comfortable sleep system.

Bedding for me varies on climate. Warm/cool is just a fleece bag. One step up includes one of my wool blankets. Winter camping is a down bag. My fav is a 20F rated one that is a generous mummy cut with the entry zipper on the top, has arm holes/vents, and a tie foot area.
 

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