Budget Sleeping Pads for Backpacking
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Sweet Spot Recommendations
For most budget backpackers, I recommend a sleeping pad with an R-value of 4 (used with a sleeping bag having a rating of 20° F). The higher the R-value, the better, as your budget allows. For older people and side-sleepers, I recommend a thick air pad such as the Big Agnes Rapide SL.
Closed-cell Foam Pads
MSRP $39.99
Specifications
R-value: 2.1
Fabric: PE foam
Weight: 16 oz
Lifetime warranty
My thoughts
As a 60-year-old side-sleeper, I would prefer to buy a more expensive air pad.
Air Pads
Air pads are expensive, but quality is important. You wouldn’t want your air pad to deflate on frozen rocky ground.
MSRP $86.99
Specifications
R-value: 3.5
Weight: 20 oz
Thickness: 2.5 in
Inflated dimensions: 72 x 20 in
Pack size: 7 x 4 in
Fabric: 40 Denier TPU diamond rip-stop nylon
Valve: Two-way flat
Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty
Pros
- Less expensive than similar pads of similar quality
- Recommended by many reputable reviewers
Cons
- Pump bag not included; sold separately