Camping Mat Buying Guide

A camping mat is a key piece of camping equipment. Keeping you warmer and comfortable than sleeping directly on the ground.

There are four different types of sleeping mats available:  

• Closed cell foam mats 

• Self-inflating mats 

• Air mats 

• Air beds 

Each excels in their areas of camping. This guide breaks down the features of each type of camping mat and some key considerations you should think about before making a purchase.

Choosing the right camping mat depends on where, when, and how you plan to camp. A lightweight summer hike has very different needs compared to winter camping or extended trips. Think about your activity, the conditions, and how much comfort you want.

Warmth
If you’re camping in cold temperatures, insulation is critical. Your mat prevents heat loss to the ground, which is one of the main ways your body loses warmth overnight.

Mats designed for colder conditions often include reflective layers that help retain body heat. For extra insulation, you can combine mats. For example, use a self-inflating mat with a closed-cell foam mat underneath, or layer two foam mats.

Warmth is measured using R-value.

What is R-value?
R-value measures how well a mat resists heat loss. The higher the R-value, the warmer the mat. R-values typically go from 1.0 to 11.0.

As a rough guide:

• Low R-value suits summer use: 1.0 to 2.0

• Mid-range works for spring and autumn: 2.0 to 4.5

• A high R-value is best for winter or freezing conditions: 4.5+

• Not all brands test R-value in the same way, so comparisons between different brands are not always precise. It’s more reliable to compare mats within the same brand range.

Pack size and weight
If you’re carrying your gear, weight and pack size matter. Inflatable mats are usually lighter and pack down smaller, making them ideal for backpacking. Foam mats are bulkier but lighter and simpler.

For car camping, pack size is less important, so you can prioritise comfort and thickness instead.

Durability
Durability becomes more important in rough terrain or longer trips. Foam mats are highly durable and cannot be punctured, while inflatable mats are more comfortable but can be damaged.

Consider where you’ll be camping and how much wear your mat will face.

Your sleep system
Your mat is only one part of your overall sleep setup. It works together with your sleeping bag and shelter to keep you warm and comfortable.

Even the warmest sleeping bag won’t perform well if your mat doesn’t provide enough insulation from the ground. For colder conditions, make sure all parts of your sleep system are suited to the environment.