A good night’s sleep can make or break your camping trip. No one wants to toss and turn all night on a thin, uncomfortable sleeping pad. That’s why investing in a quality camping mattress is a must for restful nights under the stars.
This buying guide will explore the key factors to consider when choosing the best camping mattress for your needs. We’ll also recommend top-rated mattresses to help you find the perfect model for car camping, backpacking, or camping with the family.
Different types, thicknesses and sizes of mattresses are given below so you can easily choose the best camping mattress according to your needs and requirements. Whether you want a mattress for couples or you want a mattress on a good budget.
Make sure to check out the reviews before buying any mattress so you don’t have to worry at all. Different types of mattresses have their own advantages and disadvantages, so it will be easy for you to choose the best camping mattress.
Types of Camping Mattresses
The first decision is what type of camping mattress is best suited to your camping style and priorities. There are a few main options:
Air Mattresses
Inflatable mattresses like those made by Coleman are lightweight and pack down small. You inflate them with a pump or lung power. While affordable, they can deflate and require patching kits for leaks.
Self-Inflating Mattresses
Self-inflators like Therm-A-Rest use open-cell foam that “self-inflates” when you open the valve. No pumping is required. They offer comfort and insulation for the weight. More expensive than basic air beds.
Closed-Cell Foam Mattresses
Affordable closed-cell foam pads from brands like Oztent are lightweight and durable. They insulate well but provide minimal padding. Best for backpacking and ground sleepers.
Cot-Style Air Beds
Raised air beds with built-in pumps and framing feel like real beds. Heavy and bulky but excellent for car camping and couples.
Consider weight, pack size, insulation, and comfort needs when choosing a camping mattress type.
Key Factors to Consider
Once you’ve decided on a camping mattress type, keep these factors in mind while comparing different models:
Size
Make sure to choose a length and width that suits you or your partner. Standard sizes are 183cm long and 51-76cm wide. Look for extra length if you’re tall.
Weight
Important if hiking to your campsite. Foam and self-inflating mattresses weigh 500g to 1.5kg, while air beds are 2kg+.
Packed Size
Look at the packed size if you’ll carry it hiking. Foam, self-inflators, and small air beds pack down the smallest.
Thickness
More thickness means more cushioning from the hard ground. The average is 5-8cm thick.
R-Value
A mattress’s insulation rating. Higher is warmer. Look for R-3 or up for cold weather camping.
Ease of Inflation
Self-inflators and battery-powered air beds are quickest. You’ll need a pump for most air mattresses.
Durability
Check reviews and look for durable outer fabrics that resist tears, punctures, and abrasion.
Price
Basic foam and air mattresses start around $50-100. Quality self-inflators run $150-300+ or more.
Intended Use
Car camping? Backpacking? Beach? Get a mattress suited for your main camping activities.
Thinking through these factors will help you zero in on the most suitable camping mattress for your needs.
Best Camping Mattress Reviews
Zempire Monstamat Camping Mattress
The Zempire Monstamat is a top-rated self-inflating camping mattress known for its comfort and durability. This high-quality mattress uses 40D ripstop fabric that feels silky smooth against your skin while remaining tear-resistant.
At 10 cm thick, the Monstamat provides plush cushioning so you don’t feel rocks or bumps underneath. Its open-cell foam padding inflates itself in just minutes when you open the valve. Deflating is fast, too, thanks to the two-way valve that prevents air from flowing back in while packing up.
Zempire treats the foam with an anti-bacterial solution to prevent odors, mold, and mildew from developing. The mattress comes in single, king, single, and twin sizes ranging from 198 x 68 cm up to 198 x 135 cm. It weighs a portable 3.2 kg for a single size.
Pros
- Thick and comfortable self-inflating open-cell foam
- Durable, silky ripstop fabric exterior
- Fast inflation and deflation with a two-way valve
- Anti-bacterial foam prevents odors and mold
- Carry bag, patch kit, and compression strap included
Cons
- Higher price tag than basic air mattresses
Exped Megamat Camping Mattress
Exped’s Megamat is considered one of the most comfortable and warm camping mattresses thanks to its 10 cm thickness and premium foam. This self-inflating mattress has internal foam that inflates almost entirely on its own.
You can add a bit more air by using the included hand pump if you prefer a firmer sleep surface.
Despite its plushness, the Megamat only weighs 2.6 kg, making it easy to carry. It comes in medium, long, and extra-wide sizes ranging from 183 x 77 cm up to 205 x 77 cm. The mattress promises to keep you warm in temperatures as low as -47oC thanks to its insulation.
A stuff sack with carry straps and an easy-to-use roll-top come included. Exped also provides a 5-year warranty, so you can be confident in the mattress’s quality and longevity. If you want the most luxurious self-inflating camping mattress, the Megamat is hard to beat.
Pros
- Extremely thick and comfortable
- Includes handy pump for inflation
- Promises warmth in freezing weather
- Carry sack with strap included
- 5 year warranty demonstrates quality
Cons
- More expensive than typical camping mattresses
Coleman QuickBed Air Mattress
The Coleman QuickBed is a top choice for an affordable, no-fuss air mattress. Available in XL single, double, and queen sizes, it provides a supportive sleep surface with durable PVC construction. You’ll need a pump to inflate it, but deflation is quick thanks to its double lock valve.
This air mattress uses Coleman’s antimicrobial fabric to resist odors, mold, and mildew. Its airtight system prevents leaks, so you can rely on it for the whole camping trip. When deflated, the mattress folds up into an included carry bag for convenient packing.
While it doesn’t have the plushness of more advanced self-inflating mattresses, the Coleman QuickBed gets the job done for occasional camping and guests. The queen size gives couples a spacious sleep surface, making it one of the top double-air mattresses.
Pros
- Durable PVC and antimicrobial fabric
- The airtight system prevents leaks
- The double lock valve allows fast deflation
- Carry bag included for transport
- Affordable price point
Cons
- Requires separate pump for inflation
- Thinner than premium mattresses
Coleman All Terrain Airbed
The Coleman All Terrain airbed is built tough for camping with reinforced PVC that’s puncture and stretch-resistant. As one of Coleman’s thickest mattresses at 20 cm tall, it provides cushioning and keeps you well insulated from the ground.
This is one of the best air mattresses for couples, thanks to its spacious queen size. The extra large dimensions make it comfortable for two sleepers. Despite the size, the mattress still weighs an easy-to-carry 3.8 kg deflated.
Coleman’s Wrap ‘N Roll system allows you to quickly fold up and pack down the mattress after use. An included carry bag simplifies transportation. As with other Coleman airbeds, you’ll need to supply your own pump.
Overall, it delivers outstanding comfort and durability for car camping and outdoor use.
Pros
- Thick and cushioned 20 cm height
- Durable, puncture-resistant PVC
- Roomy queen size sleeps two
- Foldable Wrap ‘N Roll system
- Carry bag for packing included
Cons
- Pump not included
- Heavy and bulky for hiking
Sea to Summit Comfort Deluxe Camping Mattress
For serious campers who want a high-performance self-inflating mattress, Sea to Summit’s Comfort Deluxe is a top choice. It uses cushioning open cell foam that inflates itself when you open the valve. Topping the foam is a soft, 30D knitted fabric for comfort.
The mattress provides an impressive R-value of 5.2, making it suitable for colder weather camping. Weighing just 0.91 kg, it packs down small. The two-way valve allows fast inflation and prevents air from escaping as you roll it up.
While one of the pricier camping mattress options, the Comfort Deluxe delivers reliable performance and insulation thanks to its 10 cm thickness. If you camp in cold climates or want a mattress built to last, it deserves consideration.
Pros
- Warm R-value of 5.2 for cold weather
- Plush 10 cm thickness
- Soft, stretchy 30D knit fabric top
- Packs down small and weighs 0.91 kg
- Two-way valve for fast inflation
Cons
- More expensive than basic options
- Only comes in regular wide size
Trekology UL80 Inflatable Camping Mattress
The Trekology UL80 is an ultralight and compact inflatable camping mattress. Weighing just 0.75 kg and packing down to a tiny 12 x 18.5 cm, it’s one of the most portable sleeping pads out there.
Despite its lightweight, the UL80 still provides cushioning thanks to its 10 cm thickness. It uses a curved shape that cradles your body and prevents rolling off the sides.
Inflation is quick through the oversized valve that allows fast airflow. You can blow it up yourself or use a pump sack (sold separately).
Made of durable 40D nylon, the mattress features a water-resistant coating to keep you dry if camping in wet conditions. While not the widest at just 57 cm across, it offers ample space for one sleeper. The total length of 191 cm accommodates taller campers.
For 3-season camping and backpacking where every gram counts, the Trekology UL80 delivers impressive comfort and packability. Just note it doesn’t come with a pillow, so you’ll need to bring your own.
Pros
- Extremely lightweight at 0.75 kg
- Packs down very small
- 10 cm thickness provides cushioning
- Curved sides prevent rolling off
- Durable 40D nylon with water resistance
Cons
- No included pillow
- Narrow width is not ideal for couples
Intex Raised Airbed
The Intex Raised Airbed is a queen-sized inflatable mattress perfect for car camping couples on a budget. Its built-in electric pump makes inflation and deflation fast and hands-free. Just plug it into an AC outlet, and the mattress fills itself in around 3 minutes.
With 42 cm of height, this airbed keeps you well insulated from the cold ground. It provides a firm, supportive sleep surface thanks to the flocked fiber-tech interior and built-in pillows. The top has a velvety feel that is soft against your skin.
Once deflated, the airbed fits into the included duffel bag for storage and transportation. While heavier than other options at 6.7 kg, the convenience of the built-in pump makes set up and pack down simple. For a no-fuss camping mattress for two, the Intex Raised Airbed is an excellent value.
Pros
- Built-in electric pump for effortless inflation
- Raised height for insulation and comfort
- Firm, supportive sleep surface
- Queen size spacious for couples
- Duffel bag included for portability
Cons
- Heavy and bulky when packed
- Repair patch not included
Oztrail Leisure Mat
Oztrail’s self-inflating Leisure Mat makes camping more comfortable thanks to its cushioned open-cell foam. Available in single, double, and queen sizes, the mats provide a lofted sleep surface without the need to blow it up manually.
The durable vinyl exterior is waterproof to keep you dry, while the velour top has a plush feel. High-density cores give it structure so you don’t sink down to the ground. Inflation only takes a few minutes after opening the valve.
When deflated, the mat can be rolled up tightly and secured with the included straps. Carry bags with shoulder straps come standard for easy transport. While not the lightest, the self-inflating Leisure Mat delivers outstanding comfort at an affordable price point.
Pros
- Self-inflating open-cell foam
- Waterproof vinyl exterior
- Velour top for softness
- Rolls up small for storage
- Carry bag included
- Great value price
Cons
- Heavier than other options
Klymit Insulated Static V Sleeping Pad
Klymit’s innovative Static V has become one of the most popular and highest-rated camping pads for its lightweight design, insulation, and comfort. Weighing only 0.68 kg, it packs down smaller than a 1L water bottle into the included stuff sack.
The distinctive V-chamber pattern allows it to inflate quickly and independently support your body’s pressure points. Klymit claims the Static V feels like a custom bed as it conforms to your shape.
Despite its R-value of 4.4, testers found the pad kept them warm in temperatures down to freezing and below. A dual-layer construction puts insulation underneath while reflecting body heat.
While best for solo backpackers who need to cut weight, the Static V also appeals to side sleepers thanks to the cushioning and support of its unique chamber design. All at an affordable price point.
Pros
- Ultralight at 0.68 kg
- Packs super small into a stuffed sack
- V-chambers custom contour to your body
- Reflective insulation retains warmth
- Affordably priced
Cons
- Best for one sleeper only
TOBTOS Self-Inflating Camping Pad
With its thick 15 cm height, built-in pillow, and high weight capacity, the TOBTOS self-inflating mattress is incredibly comfortable for all types of campers. It provides cushioning above hard, uneven ground.
The attached inflatable pillow gives great head and neck support. It also helps keep you centered on the pad. Durable 40D nylon with a waterproof coating prevents air leaks and keeps out ground moisture.
Despite its sturdiness, the TOBTOS pad still rolls down small for packing. Inflating takes about a minute with the built-in foot pump. Users love how it feels firm yet cushioned, with adjustability for your perfect comfort level.
While not the absolute lightest at 1.07 kg, its unmatched comfort and construction make it stand out. Taller and heavier campers will appreciate the generous sizing and weight capacity.
Pros
- Thick 15 cm height off the ground
- Built-in pillow for head support
- Durable 40D nylon with waterproofing
- Rolls down into included carry bag
- Foot pump for easy inflation
Cons
- Not the lightest camping mattress
Conclusion
Keep in mind the main key factors and main types of camping mattresses when shopping. Take the time to think about your intended usage, climate, priorities, and budget.
Mix and match the recommendations above to find your perfect camping sleeping pad for restful nights in the great outdoors. Happy camping!
There are so many different types, sizes, and thicknesses of mattresses, so it is quite difficult to choose the best camping mattress.
But the key factors and different types of mattresses are briefly elaborated, so it will not be a challenge for you anymore to select the best camping mattress.
