Camping mattresses are roughly divided into three categories: air mattresses, self-inflating mattresses and foam moisture-proof mattresses that can be used directly without inflation. Depending on their own situation, everyone can pick one that suits them.
The camping mattress is not only to play a comfortable role, but more importantly, to keep warm and prevent heat from being lost from the body at night. So in addition to wearing warm clothes and a nightcap when sleeping, it is necessary to choose a warm mattress. Otherwise, no matter how good the sleeping bag is, the insulation effect will not be good. (Imagine lying on the cold floor wearing a down jacket, whether you can also feel the chill.)
A common insulation index for camping mattresses is called the R value, which is a standardized evaluation of insulation materials and structures. The larger the R value, the better the insulation effect. If it is going to be a very cold winter, the R value of the selected mattress should be at least greater than 6. The R value of around 4 is more suitable for autumn.
Standardized test of R-value with heating above and simulated ground temperature below. Measure how much heat is needed to maintain the target temperature.
Of course, not all mattresses will give an R value. After all, this is a commonly used indicator in the American industry. Some companies also label insulation in other ways. For example, the British brand Vango will use sleeping mat warmth value to express. The higher the value, the warmer it is. So if you plan to camp in a place with a low temperature at night, you must learn the insulation effect of the mattress.
Another thing to keep in mind is the size of the mattress. Although they are all single mattresses, the length and width of the mattress will affect comfort. Choose according to your own situation when purchasing.
Next, let`s briefly talk about the common types of sleeping pads.
Air mattress. Besides the fabric (some use insulation), the only thing supporting the internal structure and carrying weight is air. There are thick ones and thin ones. For large inflatable sleeping pads, an electric inflator can be used to quickly inflate and deflate them. Blowing air directly with your mouth is laborious on the one hand. On the other hand, it is easy for moisture to enter the mattress and shorten its service life.
- Advantages: relatively comfortable, light weight, does not take up space, easy to carry.
- Disadvantages: When the temperature is low, ordinary air mattresses are not well insulated. Outdoor dedicated inflatable mattresses use a special insulation layer, which can reach an R value of more than 8. If you buy an ordinary air mattress, you can put a layer of insulation pad under the air mattress to enhance the insulation performance. If two people share an air mattress, it is easy to interfere with each other. After all, one person turning over will directly cause air flow and affect the other person's sleep.
- Thus, you may opt for this double inflatable sleeping pad with snap-fastener connection! Sleep peacefully without being disturbed.
The picture below is a common home inflatable mattress, without special insulation materials, it is not bad in summer, but it is not suitable for the cold nights in summer and autumn in the UK.
For comparison, air mattresses are more portable than self-inflating mattresses.
This type of inflatable sleeping pad is light and suitable for backpackers, and it is comfortable enough for side sleepers. If you can find a suitable R value, warmth is guaranteed.
The second largest category is self-inflating mattresses. Its biggest difference is that in addition to air, there is also thermal insulation foam filling material, which plays a role of comfort and warmth. It is less likely that body heat will escape from the floor through the mattress at night.
It is common for self-inflating mattresses on the market to have thicknesses ranging from 3 cm to 15 cm. If you want comfort, especially if you like to sleep on your side, it is recommended to choose a thickness of 7.5 cm or more.
- Advantages: Warmth, good support. Inflating is simple. You only need to open the inflation valve, unfold the mattress flat, and the air will inflate itself through the inhalation valve (of course, you still need to inflate with your mouth as a supplement).
- Disadvantages: large size (as shown in the previous picture), relatively heavy weight.
The third category is called foam moisture-proof pad. No need to inflate, just unfold it and use it. Because the thickness is thin, the comfort is relatively poor, and the insulation effect is also average. The R value is generally around 2.
Why do we mention it? This is mainly due to the fact that it can be used in conjunction with the above two mattresses to provide better heat retention and moisture-proofing.
Let's do an arithmetic problem. R value 2+2.3=4.3
I hope everyone can find a satisfactory mattress and have a good night's sleep comfortably.