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Have you ever woke up from a not so restful night under the
stars and walked out of your tent with the realization that you
are unable to stand straight. What about those wonderful rocks,
pine cones, roots, etc... that always seem to find themselves
under you. If you are "tired" (no pun intended) of sleeping on
the hard, cold ground, this article is for you. I will explain
some of the different camping pads out there and how they differ.
Camping pads have many advantages. Most importantly, a camp pad
will save your back from the cold hard ground. No more waking up
feeling like a pretzel. Camp pads are usually thin and
lightweight. Great for backpackers or someone looking for a
little cushion underneath them.
Another important point to remember is that most sleeping bag
companies assume you will be sleeping on some sort of pad. Keep
this in mind when buying a sleeping bag - the temperature rating
of the bag assumes a pad will be used. Camp pads will also
protect your sleeping bag from dirt and moisture from the ground.
You might be saying, "I want some cushion so I will just go out
and buy myself a nice camp pad." That is fine until you start
looking around and realize there are many types from which to
choose. Here is a list of camping pads and what they are used
for:
Standard Camp Pads - When I think of this type of pads, I
think of an exercise mat. These pads are a great alternative if
you are not looking for anything special out of your mat. It
will give you some padding from the ground.
Foam Pads - These pads are great if space or insulation
is not an issue. Because of the design of the pad, you will not
be able to get all the air out of it. What this means is a
bulkier pad when rolled or folded.
These pads do not provide very much insulation. With the weight
of your body on it, the pad compresses too much. This does not
leave much between you and the ground.
I do not recommend this type for backpackers or hikers. They are
inexpensive and therefore make a great camp pad if you are not
concerned with weight, space, or insulation.
Self-Inflating Camping Pads - This is the best of both
worlds. A compact and lightweight pad that feels like an air
mattress. How these pads work depends on the brand but most of
them have a valve that opens and the pad inflates. No need to
have extra equipment for inflating.
Self-inflating pads are not only comfortable but they are great
insulators. Many brands use a reflective coating that provides
thermal insulation and even reflects the heat back into your
body. No need to say it but I will anyways. More insulation
means more warmth.
They are a great choice for backpackers, hikers, and cold
weather campers. You will be spending more money on this type of
camp pad but it will be money well spent. I have seen people use
these pads for 15 or more years.
There you have it in a nutshell. So if you are like me and have
had it with the hard ground, I hope this helps you in your great
adventure into the camp pad world.
About the author:
Pat Hogle is the owner of ACE Camp Gear:
http://www.acecampgear.com. Ace Camp Gear is an online store
with great camping equipment. Pat has been camping for 25 years
and spends much time in the Adirondacks of New York.
Written by: Pat Hogle
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