How to Find the Best Lightweight Sleeping Mat Today

Choosing the right sleeping mat is crucial, but the question is, how do you do it? One of the most important factors is to ensure that it’s lightweight so you can bring it easily anywhere. Here are some of the things you need to know about them: 

Closed Cell Foam Mats

These thin, spongy sleeping pads were the original version of what is now used for camping. Light and durable, they are made from a thin piece of foam that insulates the sleeper from the cold ground.  They aren’t very thick, so your body has nowhere to sink into them, but they are surprisingly comfortable. Very cheap, you can cut them to size and shape you want to shave off even more weight.

Self-Inflating Mats

These are between the closed cell and air construction mats. These mats have chambers in them that, when you open the valve, fill with air giving you extra insulation.  They are easier to use than closed cell mats and more comfortable too. The price is slightly higher than the closed cell mats, but they are still very affordable.

Ultralight Air Beds

Inflatable airbeds have been around for centuries, but they used to be incredibly heavy and provide little insulation. Modern examples are incredible feats of engineering that now provide great insulation while keeping the body warm because of how the air is trapped between tiny pockets of material. The outer sheets are often made from highly engineered materials that are both light and durable.

How to Choose a Lightweight Sleeping Mat for Camping

There are a few things to consider when you are choosing your lightweight sleeping mat. Comfort is one, but weight and warmth are also important.  There are many options on the market, and these are a few of the main things to consider when making your decision:

• Thickness:

The thickness of your sleeping mat is an important decision. Thicker mats are more comfortable, but they are also heavier. If you need more comfort, opt for something thicker and more expensive.  If you are only using the mat a few times a year, you can choose something that is not as thick and comfortable.

• Shape:

Like comfort, the shape of your mat is also an important factor. If you are a large person, you may want a rectangular sleeping mat or, for smaller people, a mummy one.  If you are sharing, you will want one that is wide enough for two people. Whatever your choice, make sure that it fits in your

• R-Value:

Everyone needs to be sleeping on a mat with a certain R-Value, which is a measure of how much warmth is provided by the mat. If you don’t have enough R-Value for the temperature where you are camping, your body will not be able to produce enough warmth to keep you warm.

Sleep Light and Tight!

A good quality lightweight sleeping mat can make all the difference to an enjoyable camping experience. With so many options on the market, it can be hard to know which is the best for you.  Whether you are choosing one for your use or buying it for your kids, it is important to find something lightweight to carry it easily. Comfort and warmth are also important factors, but you will probably have to compromise a little to get the weight down. Tentstyle offers stretch tents in West Sussex. No matter what you need, we have a tent suitable for your needs. Contact us.