Sleeping Mats

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A sleeping pad or sleeping mat is a lightweight, portable mat used in camping and backpacking to provide insulation and cushioning between your body and the ground. A sleeping mat helps prevent heat loss and improves comfort while sleeping outdoors. Most sleeping pads are filled with closed-cell foam and are lightweight, durable (no punctures!), do not require inflating and are relatively low cost so are ideal for ultralight backpackers, budget campers and emergency use. The main downside of a sleeping mat versus an Airbeds is their relative bulkiness. Something to bear in mind is the “R” value of a sleeping pad. The “R” value indicates how well heat loss is prevented. An R value of 5+ is needed for winter camping; 3 or 4 is good for three seasons but 1 or 2 are really only suitable for summer camping. Obviously the thicker the foam, the greater the comfort but the heavier and more bulky the sleeping mat will become.