Camping is one of the most memorable ways to spend a vacation. When you decide to go along that way, you should make the right preparations. For instance, you need to choose a place for the camping. This could be in the mountains, at the beach or in the desert. Of course, camping feels best when accompanied by good friends. I love mine with my better half- it’s romantic! In any case, be sure to find the best camping mattress.

Camping mattress versus sleeping pad

What’s the difference between a sleeping pad and a camping mattress? In our review of the best sleeping pads, we indicated its uses. Be sure to check it out. Anyway, I’ll be brief in this. In a layman’s language, I’ll take the example of an ordinary bedroom. In that case, the sleeping pad would be the bed, literally. You sleep on a mattress that’s placed on a bed when you are in your bedroom. In the same way, you sleep on a mattress placed on a pad at in the camping tent.

Now, air mattresses are light and not ideal for use on rugged grounds. It’s like sleeping on a balloon, literally. So, you need to protect your ‘balloon’ by placing something sturdier below it. This protects the mattress and also gives you extra comfort.

Then, even if you had the world’s best sleeping bags, you’d still find it difficult to sleep on snow or craggy surfaces. The sleeping pads make the ground even and comfortable. They also insulate you against the ground. On this particular review, we shall be looking at the best camping mattress.

Best Camping Mattress Buying Guide

How do you ensure that you get the best camping mattress? The market has several brands under the camping category. Sometimes, it is difficult to find the best camping tents, bags, and mattresses. Remember, you should look for the items that make sense to you. The rule of the thumb is to ensure that the camping bedding are affordable, easy to use and portable! Then, the mattresses should be dense, comfortable and durable.

Apart from this, they need to be ergonomic (and healthy to use). Bedtime is relaxing time. The best camping mattress should help you do exactly that!

Type of camping mattress

First thing to check when shopping for the best camping mattress is the type. The air mattress is the most popular variety among camping enthusiasts. It requires you to blow or pump air through the valve. It’s this air that gives the mattress its shape and comfort.

The foam mattresses are made of closed or open cell foam. They do not require any inflation. The thumbs up here is that they will never get a puncture. They are the least comfortable, though.

It’s also important to appreciate that a camping mattress is different from a guest’s mattress. The whole difference is in their construction. The guest’s variety is thicker and bulkier. It is large and can be as high as 4 inches or more. The camping variety is small and light.

Camping mattress comfort

The ideal top class high-quality camping mattress is comfortable. The best, in this case, would be the self-inflating variety. At least, it is made with some material inside and doesn’t inflate easily. This doesn’t rule out the other types, though.

For instance, if you inflate the air mattress well, then you will not need to worry about comfort. The air inside is soft and the fact that it is trapped between the polyethene or PVC material brings you comfort.

When looking for the most comfortable camping mattress, be sure to check out the material used. You see, some of them can be noisy, and I am pretty sure you don’t want any disturbances during your nap. This way, you can be assured of getting yourself the best camping mattress.

Size and shape of camping mattress

If you want to have a good night outdoors, be sure to have the right size for your mattress. You need to add only the mattress that suits your height and size to your cart. If you are tall, then the long mattresses would do for you.

In the best sleeping pad review, we indicated that the majority of camping beddings take the shape of a rectangle. Others such as the mummy bags or pads mimic the human shape. So, they have wide waists and chests depending on whether the users are male or female.

But, the mattresses don’t actually have those odd shapes. Instead, they are just foam or air filled. Well, the majority of these mats are rectangular.

Camping mattress insulation

I’ve encountered questions such as; what is R-value in a camping mattress?

Well, this is a number accorded to a pad, mat, cot or sleeping bag to denote the insulation. In hot places or during the summer, use a mattress with an R-value of 2 or less. If you want an all-weather mattress, R-values of around 3 would work pretty fine. However, if you are going to the cold northern arctic region or camping during the winter, look for mattresses with a rating of about 5.

Using this buying guide will help you in getting the best camping mattress for your next adventure.

 

Best Camping Mattress List for you and your family

Here is our top picks for the best camping mattresses! Let’s go! Oh, and by the way I have decided to include some other sleeping bags and pads in this review.

1. Therm-a-Rest MondoKing 3D

Dimensions: 77 x 25 x 4 inches

Weight: 5 lbs. 8 oz.

What we like: comfortable

What we dislike: relatively bulky

If you are looking for a pure luxury for your camping, then you should try the Therm-a-Rest MondoKing 3D camping mattress.

The camping mat has plush and supportive foam. Its fabrics are soft, durable and tear resistant. Thus, it is durable and will not get easily torn in the woods. The pads are 11.4 high, and this is good for insulating you against cold grounds.

As a self-inflating mat, MondoKing does not need any air pumping- like a car tire! Instead, it has self-inflating mattress, which make hand pumps unnecessary during your camping trip. The mat takes a few breaths, and it is ready to hold you in your sweet dreams!

Well, MondoKing is on the high end in terms of price, but; it deserves being on our list of the best camping mattress due to its quality and comfort. No doubt, it deserves a space in your cart!

 

2. Lightspeed Outdoors XL Super Plush FlexForm Self-Inflating Sleep and Camp Pad

 Dimensions: 8.1 x 8.6 x 32 inches

Weight: 6 pounds

What we like: comfortable

What we dislike: relatively bulky

The Lightspeed Outdoors XL Super Plush FlexForm is a comfortable sleeping mat made of well-knit foam to offer you protection. Not only is it sturdy, but also soft to allow you sleep without worrying about getting damaged. The material is made of hospital grade green plastic.

Let’s be a little frank- when you are out camping, you do not want to keep blowing or pumping air into your bag or mattress. Instead, you’d love it better if the pad just inflated itself and let you cool off after a rigorous day. And for this reason, the Lightspeed Outdoors XL Super Plush Flexform is your mate!

The camping mattress is 8.1 inches, which makes it comfortable enough on grass or course ground. If you want to buy this camping bed, then; you can do it here! Besides, it is affordable, and you might find it worthy.

 

3. Zinus Sleep Master Ultima Comfort Memory Foam

Dimensions: 5″ X 36″ X 75″

What we like: comfortable

What we dislike: relatively bulky

Are you looking for an affordable, comfortable and lightweight camping mattress? Well, then you just found it!

The Zinus Sleep Master is made of high-density foam and is integrated with the Knit Endoguard Fire Barrier. The manufacturing technology is compliant with the CFR 1633 New Federal Regulations.

The zippered camping mattress’ cover is made of a sandwiched fiber mesh crip that separates two 3-ply vinyl layers. These make it durable, resistant and sturdy. Again, with the Zinus Sleep Master, you are safe when camping in thorny or sandy places.

At five inches above the ground, you are safe from any wetness or cold caused by the ground. The height also allows you to stay safe from ground creatures that might invade your tent. At least, bites and stings from ants and termites are unlikely!

The camping mattress comes in several colors, but the most popular is blue. You can also decide to take other Magnum brands, but; I’d advise you take the Zinus Sleep Master!

 

4. Big Agnes- Q-Core Deluxe Sleeping Pad

Weight: 2.4 pounds

Dimensions: 11 x 6 x 6 inches

Type: self-inflating

What we like: Comfortable

What we dislike: bulky

If you are looking for a good lightweight camping mattress, then you should add the Big Agnes- Q-Core Deluxe Sleeping Pad. It’s a minimalist camping bed, but; it has excellent features that will serve you well throughout your camping.

It contains air and foam, and this means it’s light and comfortable. I’m sure you hate having to pump air into your camping mattress- I do, too. But, Big Agnes- Q-Core Deluxe Sleeping Pad is a self-inflating mattress that does not need any pump.

The fabric is soft and sturdy. This makes the mattress to be comfortable and durable respectively. Again, the material allows you to lie in a hot environment because it neither expands nor bursts.

If you have scoured stores for mattresses, you will realize that those of the same price as Big Agnes- Q-Core Deluxe Sleeping Pad have a 20-inches width.

Well, I prefer the MondoKing to the REI Camp Bed due to the comfort and elegance. But, I consider Big Agnes- Q-Core Deluxe Sleeping Pad as one of the best budget camping mattress!

 

5. Alps Mountaineering Comfort Series

Weight: 4 lbs. 1 oz

Dimensions: 77 x 25 x 2 inches

Type: self-inflating

What we like: Comfortable and affordable

What we dislike: 2.0” relatively low

So you want the best camping mattress under $100? If yes, then Alps Mountaineering Comfort Series is your best bet!

The self-inflating camper’s sleeping bag is light and comfortable. Well, I know you might not like the 2-inch height, but; there’s more than meets the eye!

It is made of blended air, foam and polyester shell. The Comfort Series provides you with warmth, even in cold environments.

Alps Mountaineering Comfort Series camping mattress has plastic dots at the bottom to keep it intact at night. They act as spikes to sports shoes- you can’t slide while asleep.

Professional regular campers need durable, resistant and comfortable sleeping surfaces. One of the best you can get is the Alps Mountaineering Comfort Series. No doubt, there’s a reason why it’s part of our list of the best camping mattress!

 

6. AeroBed Air Mattress for Kids

Weight: 1.12 ounces

Dimensions: 50 x 25 x 10 inches

Type: Inflatable children’s mattress

What we like: Pump, 4-inch cushion

What we dislike: Noisy

Don’t leave your kids behind during camping. I understand that they can be stubborn especially when hiking. But, they are ours, and we love them. So, we’ll teach them how to be professional hikers, right from their childhood, shall we? Get them the best camping mattress as well.

Well, AeroBed Air Mattress for Kids is an inflatable camping bed for four-year-olds. Or, you can use it for anyone who needs a 50 by 25-inch sleeping space.

It is a heavy-duty PVC construction with electronically welded seams. It also has a 4-inch high safety cushion. This feature protects children from rolling off the mattress.

It also comes with an AC pump, which is capable of inflating the bed in less than a minute. Oh, all this costs less than a hundred dollars.

 

7. SoundAsleep Dream Series Air Mattress with ComfortCoil Technology & Internal High Capacity Pump

Weight: 19 pounds

Dimensions: 17 x 13 x 7 inches

Type: Inflatable

What we like: Pump, unique ComfortCoil Technology,

What we dislike: Heavyweight, May easily deflate

Do you need a high-quality camping mattress? If yes, give SoundAsleep Dream Series a shot. I agree that they are limited in color. But, they are definitely not limited in quality features. Just have a look!

First, this is a queen size mattress that measures 78 by 58 by 19 inches. It has a double height raised platform with a dual chamber construction. The Sure-Grip bottom ensures that the bed does not slide unnecessarily.

Second, it is waterproof and durable. The material is puncture resistant-the flocked top adds comfort and durability. Then, it comes with a carry bag for easy portability.

Third, it has a regular design that never loses shape. The internal air coils add durability and the support that your mattress needs to remain in place. Oh, plus when you are pumping, it will take less than four minutes.

 

8. Lightspeed Outdoors 2 Person PVC-Free Air Bed Mattress for Camping and Travel

Weight: 5.34 lbs

Dimensions: 79 x 55 x 6.2 inches

Type: Inflatable

What we like: Pump, lightweight, Tuft Tech

What we dislike: May easily deflate

Just as the brand name suggests, this LightSpeed’s mattress is lightweight, convenient and ideal for camping. Well, it has several features that you may love. Here are some of them.

First, it is large and spacious. A bed needs to be a place where you can relax. The manufacturers of this mattress pay attention to that. So, their bed measures 77.9 by 55.9 by 10.2 inches. It weighs 5.34 lbs which are ideal for backpacking.

Second, the mattress is ergonomic, and it won’t emit any foul plastic smells. The PVC, Phthalate and TPU material is coated with a stretch resistant material to maintain firmness and prevent plastic smells.

Third, it comes with several other accessories. For instance, you get a free 18 by the 8-inch pillow. Then, there is a 4 D battery operated pump.

Fourth, Lightspeed Outdoors 2 person PVC camping mattress is comfortable. It has a non-slip surface that enhances comfort and support. Plus, it is durable and affordable!

 

9. SoundAsleep Camping Series Air Mattress with Eco-Friendly PVC – Included Rechargeable Air Pump

Weight: 13.5 pounds

Dimensions: 78 x 6 x 9 inches

Type: Inflatable

What we like: Pump, unique SoundAsleep ComfortCoil technology

What we dislike: May deflate if not nozzle is not tightened

SoundAlseep ComfortCoil is one of the most important unique features that this mattress has. Look at this- it has a proprietary eco-friendly PVC (TM). The technology comes with I-Beam AIR Coils. This makes it durable for use outdoors. Again, the rugged nature of the mattress makes it ideal for camp-outs in the wilderness, or for spending leisure with family or friends.

The mattress comes with a patented external pump that makes it easy to inflate and deflate the airspace. Don’t worry- it doesn’t require any knowledge in any of Steve Hawking’s theories to operate it. It has a heavy-duty rechargeable battery, and you can even use a car battery to recharge.

If you use the pump, it will take you less than three minutes to fully inflate the mattress. The mattress and the pump are part of the camping series that is made for outdoor use. They are sturdy, resistant and can withstand extreme weather or abrasion. The material used to make the mattress is an extra thing, which makes sit resistant to puncture and other damage.

The mattress comes in two sizes; Queen or Twin. For any that you purchase, you will receive a free carry bag. This will help you pack easily. Well, it shouldn’t be your primary camping bag, though. Find our review of the best backpacks for hiking to get a dedicated bag for camping.

 

10. Coleman Queen Airbed Folding Cot with Side Tables and 4D Battery Pump

Weight: 21.1 pounds

Dimensions: Perfect for people with a height of about 6’2”

Type: Inflatable

What we like: Pump, unique ComfortStrong Coil Construction, cot

What we dislike: Heavyweight, May easily deflate

Sometimes, you want to feel like you are actually at home. You see, camping is about turning a wilderness into a home, and actually enjoying it. This means that you may need to carry some advanced camping essentials with you. Coleman Airbed is one of the first-class beds that you can take with you. Let’s see why!

First, it has a ComfortStrong Coil construction for support and durability. It is not every mattress that you buy that can give you the best performance. But, if you have one that can accompany you for the next five camping sessions or more, I’m sure it is worth the bucks.

Second, the bed comes with its stands. Yes- you will sleep on an elevated platform just as you do in your home. By the way, do you know the reasons we sleep in a lofty place? Well, it is usually simple- you need to be insulated and kept safe from the dares of the ground. Now, the sturdy steel cot supports about 600 pounds. Anyone heavier?

Third, the mattress will not take you long to inflate. Yes- it is an inflatable mat. Instead of forcing air from your mouth, you only need to make good use of the included pump. The electronic is a 4D battery-operated pump that will take a few seconds to get your bed ready.

The elevated cot makes the bed nice for use in wet or cold places. Honestly, I’d freak out sleeping in the snow – even if I am using the best sleeping bag ever! The uses are not limited- of course, you can use it to extend your hospitality to guests.

And, the best camping mattress are…

The majority of camping mattresses depend on air. So, you need to go for those that are easy to pump. Some of the main features you need to pay attention to include puncture resistance. Mattresses that need inflation should be able to resist any pricks from thorns and rough ground particles.

I hope you have already made up your mind about how to make the best camping bed! Well, sleeping inside a camping tent should be as comfortable as doing at home, in your bedroom. If you want to achieve this, you need to have the right items with you.

And, whenever you want a camping mattress, you should go for one that is portable. The majority of those you find in the market tend to be bulky- definitely not the best for backpacking. So, find those that are inflatable. They should also be puncture resistant and allergy-free. My pick is AeroBed Air Mattress for Kids. Well, I just don’t want to leave my kids with their grandparents next time I’m having some good time camping. Oh, my wife and I can spend the night on the SoundAsleep Dream Series Air Mattress.

Which is the best camping mattress? Let’s know in the comments!