One of the keys to an enjoyable camping experience is getting enough restful restful restful restful restful rest when sleeping under canvas. But with all these choices out there, choosing the best camping bed depends entirely on you and your particular camping adventure needs and adventures. In this article, we’ll look at features of top camping beds as well as how to choose one for yourself on your next camping adventure trip.
Inflatable camping beds are among the most commonly-used camping mattresses, making them suitable for car camping and even as extra bedding at home. Though more challenging to set up and inflate, air beds still feel similar to real beds with lots of cushioning and comfort compared to foam-based sleeping pads which tend to be heavier but provide superior support and insulation.
The Luxury Map by Therm-a-Rest offers excellent value for your money as an self-inflating camping mattress. While not as luxurious as top-of-the-line models like MondoKing 3D or Nemo Roamer, it provides plenty of comfort. Bulkier than some other self-inflating mattresses on our list, but featuring separate inflation/deflation valves to speed setup, plush lining, supportive foam cushioning and plush inflation/deflation valves; regular (20″ width); we generally suggest the latter version (XL 30″ width).
Kelty Galactic SI camping mat is our choice for cold weather camping mattresses, providing plenty of warmth, comfort and portability when backpacking trips take place in colder temperatures. Notably puncture-proof construction sets it apart from its Therm-a-Rest Luxury Map counterpart while its R-value of 3.8 is still enough to keep most campers comfortable when temperatures get chilly.
If hiking isn’t on your agenda, consider investing in Therm-a-Rest Classic Lite self-inflating camping mattress instead. Perfect for car campers seeking great rest without extra effort of setting up their tent, this mattress provides enough comfort without breaking the bank! While not as luxurious as some of the more costly beds on this list, car campers should still find enough support here to rest easy without weight constraints or worry.
This sleeping pad’s only drawback is its tight carrying bag, making it challenging to roll up and store when returning back to your car. Otherwise, this sleeping pad is an excellent choice for car camping and backpacking adventures alike!
Our experts conducted extensive tests of various models of camping beds to compare comfort, warmth, ease of inflation/deflation/size and packability across various environments and temperatures outdoors. They explored budget inflatable mattresses to high-end foam models.