Best Self Inflating Camping Pad

If you are in search of a self-inflating camping pad, check this list with some truly impressive pads from top brands, quality and reliable products suitable for all seasons.

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A few words about self-inflating sleeping pads

Why using self-inflating pads?

In one of my separate posts, I have described these pads together with some other types that are presently available on the market. Therefore here I wish only to stress that these are pads filled with open-cell foam. The structure of the foam is similar to a sponge, the cells are interconnected and the air can pass from one to another, and also it can go out of in.

If you compare them with closed-cell foam pads, typically self-inflating pads are heavier, but at the same time, they are far more comfortable. Yet another reason for using them is that they are nicely packable.

On the other hand, if you compare them with some of the inflatable sleeping pads, you will realize they are heavier. This is normal to expect because of the mentioned foam. However, even if such self-inflating pads become punctured, you will still have the foam underneath you, and this is not so in the case of inflatable pads where you would end up on the cold and uncomfortable ground.

What R-value can you expect?

The mentioned foam implies that you have some insulation here, and this is related to the R-value. More foam usually means more insulation and a higher R-value. Though this is not so simple, some have air channels added to shed the weight, and the air trapped inside is an insulator itself.

So you will see a variety of options in the list below, and you will realize that you have here self-inflating camping pads for all seasons.

How self-inflating camping mattresses work?

Typically this is a foam protected by a piece of fabric from outside. When you unroll the pad and open the valve, the pad soaks in the air. When it is self-inflated, you can manually add some air if needed and tighten the valve. Some may need more air than others, you will see some very thick sleeping pads here.

Are they bulky?

• Yes, they are, if you compare them with inflatable (air) pads.  Even the most packable self-inflating pads are still bulkier than top-class air pads. You can read about several best inflatable sleeping pads in my separate post.
• No, they are not, if you compare them with closed-cell foam pads.

So, by features, self-inflating pads are in various ways between closed-cell foam pads and air pads.

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My list of best self-inflating sleeping pads

Here is the list with the mattresses ordered by R-value from lower to higher:

 

When you inspect the list you will realize that you have pads suitable for the trail and for car camping. The latter are bulkier, heavier, but far more comfortable as well.

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1. Coleman Self-Inflating Camping Pad with Pillow

This Coleman Self-Inflating Camping Pad with Pillow is self-inflating and this is why it is here, but they do not provide the R-value and this is why it is in this position in the list. You have some foam inside so it should insulate you from the ground, but you can only try and see how it works.

In any case, this is a reliable and easy to use camping pad with an incredible price tag and these are the reasons for having it here in the list. Note also that it has a pillow which is useful to have. It weighs 6.4 lb (2.9 kg) so you would not carry it anywhere, this is for car camping.

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2. KingCamp Double Self Inflating Camping Sleeping Pad

This KingCamp Double Self Inflating Camping Sleeping Pad is large and pleasant. It comes with two bonus self-inflating pillows filled with the same type of foam. The manufacturer did not provide the R-value so there is no way to know it. My guess is that it must be at least 2-3.

The pad has a triple-zone design and you can see this in the picture above. A carry bag is included. It weighs 9.7 lb (4.4. kg) and the thickness is 1.6 inches (4 cm).

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3. YOUKADA Sleeping Pad Foam Self-Inflating Camping Mat

This Youkada sleeping pad comes with a memory foam that definitely provides decent insulation, but the manufacturer did not provide any information. So there is no way to know, but there is no doubt that you can use in all weather conditions in a 3-season use.

It is self-inflating of course, and it comes with inflatable pillows that must be inflated separately. This is a very comfortable double-wide pad that offers 74 x 52.8 inches (188 x 134 cm) of cushion for sleeping. Note that it is not very thick, you have 1.4 inches (4.5 cm). But it comes with an incredible price tag.

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4. Therm-a-Rest Trail King SV Sleeping Pad

Here you have a unique hybrid design that includes a self-inflating foam and air baffles construction. They included a dual valve system, classic, and SV where the SV stands for SpeedValve. This is a very durable sleeping pad with a strong top and bottom fabric.

They build it in two sizes regular (R) and long (L). The R-value is 1.8 and this makes it a pad for warm-weather camping. But see also the weight which is only 1 lb 13 oz (0.83 kg) for the size R, so this makes it lightweight enough to be carried on shorter hiking and backpacking tours. The packed size is also great 11 x 6.6 inches (28 x 17 cm) for the size R.

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5. CAMEL CROWN Camping Sleeping Pad

This CAMEL CROWN Camping Sleeping Pad is self-inflating and this is why it is here. With its R-value 2 it is suitable for 2-season camping. The fabric is waterproof, and it comes with an inflatable pillow of the same material and with the same foam fill.

There is also a carry bag shown in the picture. The pad weighs 5.07 lb (2.3 kg) so this is for car camping. It is 2 inches (5.1 cm) thick, and you will want to know that it is also incredibly affordable.

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6. Klymit KLYMALOFT Sleeping Pad

This Klymit KLYMALOFT Sleeping Pad is a hybrid construction, it is both inflatable and self-inflating. So you have one part of the pad that is only filled with air (this is the part on the right in the picture), and the other part has two layers, one with self-inflating foam and one with air.

This is quite a unique construction, and I do not remember anything similar on the market to compare. The pad comes with a durable fabric and this makes is a bit heavy for the trail. It weighs 38.5 oz (1089 g). It is built it in one size only. The R-value of 2.1 is modest, this makes it a pad suitable for two seasons.

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7. NEMO Flyer Sleeping Pad

If you want something unique, this NEMO Flyer Sleeping Pad is the right choice. You may not see much from outside, the real thing is inside.

This is an advanced ultralight and ultra-packable insulated 3-season self-inflating pad with the R-value 3.3, and they use the new ASTM Standard (ASTM F3340-18) introduced recently. I blogged about this new system in my separate text.

You have a non-slip bottom, they build it in three sizes, and the weight of the Regular size is 1 lb 7 oz (652 g).

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8. Therm-a-Rest Prolite Plus Ultralight Self-Inflating Backpacking Pad

This Therm-a-Rest Prolite Plus is ultralight as the title suggests, it weighs only 1 lb 7 oz (0.65 kg) so this is a trail item. See also the packed size which is only (L x D) 11 x 4.8 inches (28 x 12 cm) for the size R. They build it in three different sizes.

The R-value is 3.4 and this makes it a true 3-season sleeping pad and it offers 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) of thickness. The insulation is achieved by their exclusive Atmos foam which is very light and also very compressible. This is a patent-pending diagonal-cut foam that self-inflates very quickly. You might want to know it is built in the USA.

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9. Sea to Summit Camp Plus Self-Inflating Mat

The Sea to Summit Camp Plus Self-Inflating Mat is designed for campers who prioritize comfort and durability in varying conditions.

With a thick foam core and an R-value of 4.3, it’s well-suited for use across all seasons, providing adequate insulation even on rocky terrain and in temperatures close to freezing.

The mat’s self-inflating feature, though functional, requires additional manual inflation due to the design’s Delta Core technology, which cuts 40% of the foam to reduce weight and size.

This pad is available in four different sizes, catering to different needs and preferences. The rectangular regular-wide version, while bulkier and heavier, offers excellent comfort, particularly for those sleeping on uneven ground.

Although it might not be the most compact or lightest option for backpackers, the Sea to Summit Camp Plus is a reliable choice for anyone needing a robust sleeping pad.

Additionally, the mat includes a Pillow Lock System to secure your pillow and a durable construction featuring 75D polyester with TPU laminate, ensuring longevity.

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10. KingCamp Luxury 3D Double Self-Inflating Sleeping Pad

This KingCamp Luxury 3D Double Self-Inflating Sleeping Pad is moderately thick and with a foam that provides an effective R-value of 4.7. So this is why it is in such a position here in the list, and you can use it in all seasons. The pad is very comfortable long and wide, suitable for two people, the dimensions are 79.1 x 50.3 inches (201 x 128 cm).

It comes with a storage bag included, and its weight is 10.6 lb (4.8 kg). So clearly this is not something to carry around, you will use it at places with a car access. It is also very affordable.

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11. Klymit Self-Inflate V Sleeping Pad

This brand is famous for its inflatable pads, but here you have something new from them. As far as I remember this is their first self-inflating pad on the market. It is still with their iconic V shape baffles in the design although not as prominent as in their other pads.

The pad comes with insulation that gives a 5.3 R-value which is roughly equivalent to the temperature rating of -4 F (-20 C). So this is a sleeping pad for all seasons. The shell is 30D stretch polyester on the top and 75D polyester on the bottom.

The pad weighs 2.9 lb (1300 g) so it is lightweight for an insulated pad, and this is the reason for adding it here; you can use it also for shorter overnight tours away from your car parking. You might want to know that it is incredibly affordable.

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12. Kelty Waypoint SI Sleeping Pad

This is a self-inflating camping pad and SI in the name describes this feature. The pad is large and thick, you have the dimensions 77.95 x 29.92 inches (198 x 76 cm) and the thickness 3 inches (7.6 cm).

The inner is a foam that insulates you from the ground and it gives the R-value of 5.6. Note that the stuff sack doubles as a manual pump if you need to add extra air in. The pad weighs 5 lb 6 oz (2.44 kg).

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13. Therm-a-Rest BaseCamp Self-Inflating Sleeping Pad

This is again one from the Therm-a-Rest brand, and it is light enough to be carried on shorter trails, its R size weighs only 2 lb 8 oz (1.14 kg). So obviously it is much lighter than most of the pads here in the list and this is a versatile pad. The thickness is 2 inches (5 cm), and this is a pad suitable for car camping and also for hiking.

The pad is built in three sizes so you can find your best fit. The open-cell foam inside gives you good insulation with an R-value of 5.8. So the pad is suitable for all seasons. You might want to know also that it is very affordable for such a type and for such a top brand.

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14. TETON Sports ComfortLite Sleeping Pad

This TETON Sports ComfortLite Sleeping Pad is self-inflating and they build it in three different sizes. Having a foam inside, it is also insulated and the declared R-value is in the range of 4.4-5.9 dependent on the size.

A great feature here is that it has Velcro along the sides so you can attach it to other pads of this type and create a large continuous sleeping area.

A carry bag is included and the regular size weighs 3.6 lb (1.6 kg), so it is a bit heavy to carry in the pack, this is why it is in the list here. It is also very affordable.

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15. Cabela’s Outfitter XL Sleeping Pad

This is a self-inflating sleeping pad and this is why it is here. But its R-value is quite high 6, and this explains its position here in the list. The pad is also very long and wide, its dimensions are impressive 83 x 38 inches (211 x 97 cm).

In other words, if you are a tall person, you will want to check this pad. The weight is 8 lb (3.6 kg), and the pad is very affordable and popular.

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16. Sea to Summit Comfort Deluxe SI Sleeping Pad

This pad is self-inflating but with their Delta Core technology. This means there are cutouts in the foam and this saves weight and makes the pad less bulky.

It is available in several different sizes. All of them are 4 inches (10 cm) thick. The pad has R-value of 6.5 which should be enough for practically any weather conditions. Note that their pads come with the new ASTM R-Value standard so the insulation should be reliable.

The pad also has their Pillow Lock feature and it is packed in a nicely designed carry bag. The weight of the RW size is 4 lb 6 oz (1995 g).

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17. ALPS Mountaineering Apex Self-Inflating Air Pad

This ALPS Mountaineering Apex Self-Inflating Air Pad is built in three different sizes. With its R-value of 6.9 and its two brass valves, this is a reliable and easy to use 4-season pad.

The regular size pad weighs 4 lb 14 oz (2.2 kg), and its packed size is 22.5 x 9 inches (57 x 23 cm), so it is quite heavy and bulky, so this is not a pad to be carried on the trail.

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18. ALPS Mountaineering Lightweight Self-Inflating Double Air Pad

Here you have something quite unique. This is a double sleeping pad that can be split into two separate single pads, or you can simply fold it and use it as a very thick solo pad. This is because of a hook and loop Velcro connection that runs in the middle. So this is a 2-in-1 design.

The R-value is 6.9 if you use it as a double pad, so you can use it in all seasons. But when you fold it, the R-value is higher by factor 2 which means close to 14, so you can use it in the harshest conditions.

The weight is such that it is most suitable for car camping but if you take half of it, then it can be carried on shorter overnight hiking tours. The total pad’s weight is 9 lb 7 oz (4.28 kg).

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19. NEMO Roamer Self-Inflating Sleeping Pad

This is an incredibly comfortable pad and you can realize this already from the picture. It is built in two sizes and they both provide 4 inches (10.2 cm) thickness. This is thick enough even for side sleepers.

Obviously, it is on the list because it is self-inflating due to the foam inside which provides great insulation. The temperature rating for this pad is -30 F (-34 C) and this is close to 7.5 R-value. So what you have here is a camoing pad for all seasons.

The larger version (XLW) is with the dimensions 80 x 30 inches (203 x 76 cm) so it is suitable even for very tall people. It weighs 5 lb 4 oz (2.38 kg) and it is surprisingly well packable.

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20. DoD Soto Sleeping Pad

This DoD Soto Sleeping Pad is self-inflating and this is why it is here in the list. But this is a large and comfortable pad that they build in three sizes and all of them are very big. The picture shows the M size that measures 82 x 45 inches (208 x 115 cm). All of them are 4 inches (10 cm) thick. 

The pad has an impressive R-value of 8.3, so you can use it in the most extreme weather conditions. It is equipped with a pair of great two-way valves, so both can be used for inflation and deflation.

It comes with a self-inflating pillow that doubles as a manual pump as well. But this is not all, you get also a polycotton pad cover, and a sleeve for the pillow is included in the package. The included carry bag is large and with compressible straps.

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21. Kelty Galactic SI Sleeping Pad

This is an insulated self-inflating pad with a very high R-value of 8.4. So you have a true 4-season pad that will protect you from cold anywhere. Yet it is also incredibly affordable.

The weight is 4 lb 5 oz (1.96 kg) so it is a bit heavy to be carried in the pack, this is why it is here in the list. The dimensions are (L x W) 78 x 25 inches (198 x 63.5 cm), and its thickness is 2.5 inches (6.4 cm).

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22. ALPS Mountaineering Outback Self-Inflating Air Mat

They build this ALPS Mountaineering Outback Self-Inflating Air Mat in two sizes, and both are very thick, you have 4 inches (10.2 cm) of cushion and comfort.

The R-value is 8.5 and this is because of its foam. So this is a self-inflating pad suitable for any weather conditions. The XL version is 80 x 32 inches (203 x 81 cm) and it weighs 7 lb 7 oz (3.37 kg). So it is a bit heavy but see the size.

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23. Exped DeepSleep Mat 7.5 Duo Sleeping Pad

This is a self-inflating double wide pad, though they build it in two sizes M and LW. So you have (L x W) 72 x 40.9 inches (183 x 104 cm) and 77.6 x 52 inches (197 x 132 cm). The latter weighs 9 lb 14 oz (4.48 kg).

The number 7.5 in the name is its thickness in centimeters. The R value is impressive 8.5 and this is equivalent to -50.8 °F (-46 C). So the pad is suitable for any weather conditions.

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24. Elegear Self Inflating Sleeping Pad

I tested this sleeping pad in temperatures as low as 5-6 degrees Celsius with high humidity, and can tell you that the pad offers full protection from the cold ground.

The self-inflating feature, with three efficient valves, facilitates a quick setup, while the high-density open-cell memory foam ensures a firm and comfortable sleeping surface.

The impressive R-value of 9.5, as per ASTM rating, attests to its excellent insulation against cold surfaces. The skin-friendly 50D stretch knit fabric adds a pleasant touch, making minimal noise even for restless sleepers.

Despite being slightly heavy and bulky, the Elegear Sleeping Pad is a cost-effective choice, earning its place as the best-selling pad on Amazon in the Self-Inflating Sleeping Mats for Camping category. Suitable for all seasons, it is recommended for car camping, emergencies, and even as a spare bed at home.

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25. QOMOTOP Ultra Thick Self-Inflating Camping Mattress

This QOMOTOP Ultra Thick Self-Inflating Camping Mattress is a self-inflating pad as its name says, and its stuff sack doubles as an inflation sack in the case you need to blow more air in.

It weighs 13.6 lb (6.2 kg), and its dimensions are 80 x 52 inches (203 x 132 cm), so it is also in my list of best car camping sleeping pads. The pad comes with a 9.5 R-value so it is suitable even for extreme cold. This is a double-size pad and comfortable even for side sleepers with its 4 inches (10 cm) foam.

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26. WELLAX UltraThick FlexFoam Sleeping Pad

This WELLAX UltraThick FlexFoam Sleeping Pad comes with memory foam and its declared R-value is 9.6, so now you realize why it is in such a position here in the list.

So this is an impressive insulated pad for all seasons and climates, with a quiet ripstop fabric and brass valves. It has an integrated self-inflating headrest that inflates together with the rest of the pad. The pad weighs 7 lb (3.18 kg) and it is 3 inches (7.6 cm) thick. Note that it is very affordable.

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27. Lightspeed Outdoors XL Self-Inflating Sleeping Pad

The official R-value of this pad is 9.66 and this is why it is in such a good position here in the list. In view of this, you have here a pad for all seasons. It is self-inflating and with an integrated headrest.

This is a very popular camping pad, easy to use, and also very affordable. A carry bag is included. The pad is quite heavy and this is why it is in this list of camping pads, it weighs 6 lb (2.72 kg). The dimensions are 77 x 30 inches (196 x 76 cm).

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28. Therm-a-Rest DreamTime Mattress

This is a pad with some unique features. So this DreamTime pad is a three-component system that includes the following elements:

• A memory foam layer.
• A self-inflating core pad.
• On the outside, you have a removable and machine-washable microfiber cover.
• Connect Two system. This means you can use it in pair with yet another pad. This is done with the help of the side straps which you can see in the picture.

The pad is built in two sizes, and they are both great, Large and Extra Large. Its R-value is 10, so this is in such a position here in the list. The materials are durable, so you have 75D polyester on both sides. The foam is urethane.

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29. Coleman Cloudland Self-Inflating Camping Pad

The Coleman Cloudland Self-Inflating Camping Pad is what its name says, self-inflating, and this is why it is here in the list. It weighs 7.2 lb (3.3 kg), so obviously this is a car camping pad.

It is also thick and comfortable, and its official R-value provided by the manufacturer is 10+. Its thickness is 4 inches (10.2 cm). So this is a pad suitable for every type of sleeper, and for any climate and season.

You have a dual-use valve with a rotating core, you use it both for inflation and deflation. The pad’s dimensions are very good, you have 77 x 30 inches (196 x 76 cm). Its packed size when rolled up is (L x D) 32.7 x 8.7 inches (83 x 22 cm).

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30. Zempire Monstamat Twin Sleeping Pad

Here you have a self-inflating pad with a huge 10.5 R-value. This makes it suitable for any weather conditions. The dimensions are 79.1 x 52 inches (201 x 132 cm), so you realize this is a double-wide pad with lots of space for two adults.

The high R-value is due to an open cell foam. The top fabric is a 30D super stretch ripstop polyester, and the bottom is a 75D poly pongee. The pad weighs 13.3 lb (6.03 kg). You have a carry bag included.

Note that they also have a single version with the same R-value, the Zempire Monstamat Single Self Inflating Mat, so follow the link to read more.

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31. Exped MegaMat Max 15 Duo Sleeping Pad

This Exped MegaMat Max 15 Duo Sleeping Pad is self-inflating and it comes with lots of insulating foam that creates 5.9 inches (15 cm) of a cushion. This results in a very high R-value of 10.6 and this is with the ASTM F3340-18 rating. The corresponding temperature rating is -70.6 °F (-57 °C).

This is a double-wide pad, and with such a thickness it weighs 216.8 oz (6.15 kg). You will want to know that it comes with a mini-pump included and also with a great warranty. 

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32. Therm-a-Rest MondoKing 3D Self-Inflating Foam Camping Air Mattress

This is an insulated sleeping pad suitable for all seasons, and with an impressive R-value of 11.4, one of the highest on the market. It is built in two sizes and they both are big.

The fabric is a very soft and pleasant 75D reverse diamond polyester on the top and the same durability polyester is on the bottom. The inside foam is urethane, and you might want to know that the pad is built in the USA. Much more is available in my separate review, please follow the link below.

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So what would be your best self-inflating camping pad? How to choose?

Here are a few tips you might bear in mind when you decide on such a sleeping pad:

The weight:

As you have seen, the differences are big. This is important if you ever plan to carry it attached to the pack. But if you plan to use the pad for car camping, then simply ignore the weight and check its other parameters. Heavier usually means more insulation, thicker and larger construction, so a bigger weight is not necessarily a bad thing here.

The packed size:

These pads have foam insulation and they must be bulkier than most of the inflatable pads. For car camping, this is not such a big deal in any case, but it may be if you are on a motorbike tour or on a hiking adventure.

R-value:

This is an important parameter. The higher the value the better, it is as simple as that. Pads with high R-value you can use in any season, they are not heaters so they are suitable even for summer. But you might want to know that there is a new ASTM F3340-18 standard for camping sleeping pads ratings introduced from January 2020. Read more about this here.

Thickness:

This is yet another important parameter. If you are a side sleeper you will go for a thicker pad.

Price:

There are big differences here as well. This is due to different features and materials of course. But some of the pads are indeed surprisingly affordable.

So this was my list with best self-inflating camping mattresses, and as you realize those are all items from top brands. The list will be updated whenever I find a pad worth adding here. This is why you might want to bookmark this text and check occasionally. Please share it with others. You might want to check also my list of classic foam pads for camping cots.

Thank you for reading. Please use the comment box below in the case of questions or comments. I wish you pleasant camping wherever you are in the world.