Having a comfortable sleeping pad while backpacking is necessary– not just for comfort, but for your safety as well. The ground acts as a giant heat sink, and if you don’t have a pad that can serve as insulation, you may be susceptible to hypothermia– especially if you’re backpacking in cold weather.
You have lots of options for sleeping pads for camping, but for backpackers, weight is a primary concern. In this article, we’re going to go over the best inflatable sleeping pads that will help keep your load light and still let you sleep comfortably. We’ll talk about the important features that these pads have, and what you should be looking for when you shop for one.
Important Sleeping Pad Features
There are several key features of sleeping pads to consider, both to guarantee comfort at night, and for lightweight travel during the day.
Insulation
R-value measures the insulation of a sleeping pad, with a higher number indicating better insulation. A good R-value for backpacking is between 2 and 4.5. This provides enough warmth for most camping conditions and we will discuss this in more detail shortly. If you’re backpacking in cold weather, this is the most important feature of your sleeping pad.
Comfort
Sleeping pads come in different shapes and thicknesses, with some designed to conform to the body for more comfort. Selecting a sleeping pad with the right thickness and shape for your body will help you get a good night’s sleep. It doesn’t matter if your sleeping pad weighs next to nothing, inflates in two breaths, and is tough as nails– if it’s not comfortable, you’re not going to rest well. Your comfort is important for making sure that you’re well-rested and not sore for the next day’s hiking. This is especially important for side sleepers, who will want a thicker pad. Simply put, for many, it is worth it to add size and weight to a pad in order to sleep better.
Weight and Packability
Backpackers want gear that is lightweight and packable, so look for a sleeping pad that fits these criteria. Inflatable sleeping pads are often lighter and more packable than foam pads; if you’re an ultralight backpacker, you may not want to bother with the extra weight or the spatial needs of a foam pad.
Durability
Sleeping pads can be punctured or damaged, so look for a pad that is made with durable materials and has good construction quality. Some pads offer warranties, so check if yours does and save that information. It can also be a good idea to pack a small patch kit, just in case.
Inflation and Deflation
Some sleeping pads can be inflated quickly and easily, while others may take more time. Make sure to select a pad with an inflation method that works for you and that you can easily deflate when you’re ready to pack up.
Price
It is worth it to invest in a good sleeping pad, even if it is a little more expensive. Cheaper sleeping pads may cut corners on warmth, comfort, noise, materials that effect durability, and other features that can make your camping experience miserable.
Noise
Noise is an issue with many inflatable pads. As you move around during the night, a noisy sleeping pad can be really annoying. It can keep you and your tentmate awake. Check the reviews of the sleeping pad you want to buy and see if other backpackers complain about nighttime noises.
Understanding Sleeping Pad Insulation
Sleeping pad insulation is usually described as an R-value. This is not the case for every manufacturer; some manufacturers simply provide a temperature range for their products. Prior to 2020, R-values were not actually standardized across the industry, which made finding the perfect sleeping pad a little bit difficult.
Fortunately, in 2016, a group led by Therm-a-Rest developed a methodology for standardizing R-value assessment; now, ASTM F3340-18 exists as a standard for R-values. This created an actual, measurable performance standard for sleeping pads, making finding the right one much easier.
And in case you were wondering: the “R” in R-value stands for thermal resistance.
Sleeping Pad R-Value Scale
The R-value scale starts with the number 1. The higher the number, the better it can keep your body insulated from the cold ground. This means that as the weather gets colder, your sleeping pad needs to have a higher R-value to keep you warm.
The scale doubles with each number, so a sleeping pad with an R-value of 2 resists twice as much cold as a sleeping pad with an R-value of 1. However, this is not an exact correlation with air temperature, so here is a chart with recommended low-end temperatures for each whole number on the scale.
| R-Value | Season | Low Comfortable Temperature (°F) |
| 1 | Summer | 50° |
| 2 | Late Spring, Summer, Early Fall | 30° |
| 3 | Spring, Summer, Fall | 25° |
| 4 | Spring, Summer, Fall | 10° |
| 5 | Late Fall, Winter | 0° |
| 6 | Winter | -15° |
| 7 | Winter, extreme cold | -25° |
| 8 | Extreme cold | -40° |
Not all sleeping pads have a whole-number R-value; ratings like 3.5 and 4.5 are not uncommon. Thanks to the new standards, R-values can be even more precise than ever before.
The Best Inflatable Sleeping Pads for Backpacking
Taking all of these key features into consideration, here are our recommendations for the best inflatable sleeping pads.
Big Agnes Rapide SL Insulated
The Big Agnes Rapide SL comes in four sizes (we’ve given the stats for the Regular size) and is light, tough, and easily packable. Its durable construction includes two heights– the interior chambers are 3.5 inches thick, while the outer rails are 4.25 inches. When paired with its offset interior I-beam construction, this pad provides great stability and comfort.
The Big Agnes Rapide SL comes in four sizes (we’ve given the stats for the Regular size) and is light, tough, and easily packable. Its durable construction includes two heights– the interior chambers are 3.5 inches thick, while the outer rails are 4.25 inches. When paired with its offset interior I-beam construction, this pad provides great stability and comfort.Pros: Lightweight, extremely durable, great for side sleepers
Cons: Narrow; you may want to size up to Regular Wide
Additional Review: Watch this review on this sleeping pad
Specs:
Weight: 19 ounces
Thickness: 3.5/4.5 inches
Packed Size: 4.5 x 8 inches
Full Size: 72 x 20 x 3.5 inches
R-value: 4.2
MSRP: $150-$200
Exped Ultra 7R
If you’re a cold-weather camper, this is one of the best inflatable sleeping pads you can buy. The Exped Ultra 7R comes in three sizes (we’ve given information for the Medium Wide size) and is remarkably warm. It uses 700-fill down insulation and is designed to last; the interior is even laminated with hydrolysis-resistant materials that resist the bacteria and moisture that can degrade an inflatable pad’s interior.
If you’re a cold-weather camper, this is one of the best inflatable sleeping pads you can buy. The Exped Ultra 7R comes in three sizes (we’ve given information for the Medium Wide size) and is remarkably warm. It uses 700-fill down insulation and is designed to last; the interior is even laminated with hydrolysis-resistant materials that resist the bacteria and moisture that can degrade an inflatable pad’s interior.Oversized outer chambers keep you cradled comfortably, while internal baffles prevent cold spots and create a fully stable sleep surface. It’s a little heavier than the other 7+ R-Value bag on our list, the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm NXT Sleeping Pad, but the comfort and thoughtful design make it a great option. The pad comes with a pump sack, stuff sack, and repair kit.
Pros: Great insulation, comfortable, quiet
Cons: Tapered design is a little narrow, a little bulky when packed
Read our full review on the Exped Ultra 7R and 5R
Video Review: Watch this video on this sleeping pad.
Specs:
Weight: 28 ounces
Thickness: 3.5 inches
Packed Size: 5.5 x 13.8 inches
Full Size: 72 x 25.6 x 3.5 inches
R-value: 7.1
MSRP: $240
Klymit Insulated Static V
If you like the affordability of the Klymit Static pads but want a 3-season option, the Insulated Static V is a great choice. It is durable and features Klymit’s V-shaped air chambers that mold to your body for comfort. The air chambers are lined with Klymalite lofted insulation to keep you off the cold ground. The photo on the right is our pad combined with a Klymit sleeping bag. One of our most comfortable setups.
If you like the affordability of the Klymit Static pads but want a 3-season option, the Insulated Static V is a great choice. It is durable and features Klymit’s V-shaped air chambers that mold to your body for comfort. The air chambers are lined with Klymalite lofted insulation to keep you off the cold ground. The photo on the right is our pad combined with a Klymit sleeping bag. One of our most comfortable setups.Pros: Affordable, durable, only 9 of our breaths to blow it up.
Cons: Slow deflation, lower R-value for the money than some other pads, somewhat heavy
Video Review: Watch this video on this sleeping pad.
Specs:
Weight: 25 ounces
Thickness: 2 inches
Packed Size: 5 x 8 inches
Full Size: 72 x 23 x 2.5 inches
R-value: 4.4
MSRP: $100
Klymit Static V2
Klymit makes several variants of the Static V and V2, and they’re all good budget options. The Static V2 is a great lightweight option that saves you some money and weight by having less insulation and less material. This has advantages and disadvantages depending on how you like to hike. This sleeping pad is Klymit’s uninsulated option, so it’s best for a summer hike. This pad comes with a stuff sack and repair patch.
Klymit makes several variants of the Static V and V2, and they’re all good budget options. The Static V2 is a great lightweight option that saves you some money and weight by having less insulation and less material. This has advantages and disadvantages depending on how you like to hike. This sleeping pad is Klymit’s uninsulated option, so it’s best for a summer hike. This pad comes with a stuff sack and repair patch.Pros: Budget friendly, durable, comfortable
Cons: Slow deflation, noisy, air shifts around, low R-value
Video Review: Watch this video review on this sleeping pad.
Specs:
Weight: 19.6 ounces
Thickness: 2.5 inches
Packed Size: 3 x 8 inches
Full Size: 72 x 23 x 2 inches
R-value: 1.3
MSRP: $75
NEMO Flyer
This pad is a unique combination of inflatable and self-inflating sleeping pad. It comes in three sizes (we’ve given you data for the regular size). Unlike the other pads in this list, the NEMO Flyer uses the design of a self-inflating pad as a base. The design removes more than half of the open-cell foam common to self-inflating pads, added insulation and air-filled baffles, and created a sleeping pad that’s light, easy to use, and packs down smaller than any other self-inflating pad. We also love
This pad is a unique combination of inflatable and self-inflating sleeping pad. It comes in three sizes (we’ve given you data for the regular size). Unlike the other pads in this list, the NEMO Flyer uses the design of a self-inflating pad as a base. The design removes more than half of the open-cell foam common to self-inflating pads, added insulation and air-filled baffles, and created a sleeping pad that’s light, easy to use, and packs down smaller than any other self-inflating pad. We also lovePros: Affordable, comfortable, quiet
Cons: Thin shell is vulnerable to punctures, bulkier than air pads, the self inflation doesn’t really work as you need to blow it up the same as any other inflatable mattress in our opinion. This isn’t necessarily bad, it just is weird in our opinion to call it self inflating. Harder to deflate and pack away than other options.
Video Review: Watch this video review on this sleeping pad.
Specs:
Weight: 23 ounces
Thickness: 2 inches
Packed Size: 6.5 x 10 inches
Full Size: 72 x 20 x 2 inches
R-value: 3.3
MSRP: $72-$84
Buy on Amazon | Buy at REI | View on Nemo
NEMO Quasar 3D Insulated
The NEMO Quasar 3D Insulated pad comes in three sizes (the information here is for the Regular size) and is designed with comfort in mind. An elevated head baffle and body-mapped baffling in the main part of the pad cradle you, even on difficult terrain. While the pad is a little under-insulated for colder spring and fall temperatures, it’s still a solid 3-season option.It includes a pump sack, stuff sack, and repair patch. This pad also comes with a lifetime warranty and is made with sustainable materials.
The NEMO Quasar 3D Insulated pad comes in three sizes (the information here is for the Regular size) and is designed with comfort in mind. An elevated head baffle and body-mapped baffling in the main part of the pad cradle you, even on difficult terrain. While the pad is a little under-insulated for colder spring and fall temperatures, it’s still a solid 3-season option.It includes a pump sack, stuff sack, and repair patch. This pad also comes with a lifetime warranty and is made with sustainable materials.Pros: Extremely comfortable and one of the thickest backcountry pads you’ll find on the market
Cons: Relatively heavy (largest size weighs 33 ounces), low price-to-R-value ratio
Video Review: Watch this video review on this sleeping pad.
Specs:
Weight: 25 ounces
Thickness: 3.5 inches
Packed Size: 8 x 4.5 inches
Full Size: 72 x 20 x 3.5 inches
R-value: 3.3
MSRP: $160-$200
Buy on Amazon | Buy at REI | View on Nemo
NEMO Tensor Insulated
NEMO makes this pad in several sizes and shapes (we’ve given the specs for the Regular Wide), and also has versions without insulation– but we’re recommending an insulated version here because it’s one of the quietest three-season insulated pads on the market. The pad uses multiple layers of metallized film for insulation, resulting in a sleeping pad that’s both light and quiet. This pad uses bluesign certified materials and comes with a lifetime warranty
NEMO makes this pad in several sizes and shapes (we’ve given the specs for the Regular Wide), and also has versions without insulation– but we’re recommending an insulated version here because it’s one of the quietest three-season insulated pads on the market. The pad uses multiple layers of metallized film for insulation, resulting in a sleeping pad that’s both light and quiet. This pad uses Pros: Quiet, lightweight
Cons: Expensive
Video Review: Watch this video review on this sleeping pad.
Specs:
Weight: 19 ounces
Thickness: 3 inches
Packed Size: 3 x 9.5 inches
Full Size: 72 x 25 x 3 inches
R-value: 4.2
MSRP: $200-230
Buy on Amazon | Buy at REI | View on Nemo
Sea to Summit Ether Light XT
The Ether Light XT Insulated sleeping pad is one of Sea to Summit’s lightest and thickest options. They use their “air sprung cell” system that they use on their other pads and combine it with a 4-inch thickness to keep you extremely comfortable as you sleep. The insulation is Exkin Platinum® insulation, a metallic film that reflects radiant heat back to you. Additional Thermolite® insulation prevents convective heat loss at night. It includes a pump sack, stuff sack, and repair kit.
The Ether Light XT Insulated sleeping pad is one of Sea to Summit’s lightest and thickest options. They use their “air sprung cell” system that they use on their other pads and combine it with a 4-inch thickness to keep you extremely comfortable as you sleep. The insulation is Exkin Platinum® insulation, a metallic film that reflects radiant heat back to you. Additional Thermolite® insulation prevents convective heat loss at night. It includes a pump sack, stuff sack, and repair kit.Pros: Quiet, durable, extremely comfortable
Cons: Technically 3-season but might be uncomfortable for cooler weather; only comes in short mummy size
Video Review: Watch this video review on this sleeping pad.
Specs:
Weight: 16.3 ounces
Thickness: 4 inches
Packed Size: 9.5 x 4.5 inches
Full Size: 66 x 21.5 x 4 inches
R-value: 3.2
MSRP: $199
REI Co-op Helix Insulated Air Sleeping Pad
REI’s own Helix sleeping pad comes in three sizes (the stats here are for the Regular size) and is a great 3-season option. This pad offers some of the best insulation at its price point, making it a great value. The dimpled exterior design is comfortable and mattress-like, while the interior baffles and welds have been recently redesigned for better durability and longevity. It includes a pump sack, stuff sack, and patch kit.
REI’s own Helix sleeping pad comes in three sizes (the stats here are for the Regular size) and is a great 3-season option. This pad offers some of the best insulation at its price point, making it a great value. The dimpled exterior design is comfortable and mattress-like, while the interior baffles and welds have been recently redesigned for better durability and longevity. It includes a pump sack, stuff sack, and patch kit.Pros: Great insulation, affordable, comfortable
Cons: A little bulky
Specs:
Weight: 21 ounces
Thickness: 3 inches
Packed Size: 9 x 5 inches
Full Size: 72 x 25 x 3 inches
R-value: 4.9
MSRP: $159
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT
At a mere 13 ounces, the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT is one of the lightest pads on our list. It comes in several sizes (we’re giving the stats for the Regular), and even the largest is only 17 ounces. Despite being so lightweight, this sleeping pad has an R-value of 4.5, making it comfortable for 3-season use. The interior construction keeps you warm and comfortable, and it’s nearly silent as you move around during the night. This pad comes with a pump sack, stuff sack and field repair kit.
Pros: Quiet, comfortable, ultralight
Cons: Expensive
Video Review: Watch this video review on this sleeping pad.
Specs:
Weight: 13 ounces
Thickness: 3 inches
Packed Size: 4.1 x 9 inches
Full Size: 72 x 20 x 3 inches
R-value: 4.5
MSRP: $199.95-$239.95
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm NXT Sleeping Pad
Coming in three sizes (we’ve given the specs for the Regular Wide), this is one of the best sleeping pads for fall and winter backpacking. With an extremely good weight-to-insulation ratio, the 7.3 R-factor will keep you warm throughout the night. The thickness is exceptionally good for side sleepers and has a tough nylon construction to extend the life of the pad. This pad comes with a stuff sack, pump sack, and field repair kit.
Coming in three sizes (we’ve given the specs for the Regular Wide), this is one of the best sleeping pads for fall and winter backpacking. With an extremely good weight-to-insulation ratio, the 7.3 R-factor will keep you warm throughout the night. The thickness is exceptionally good for side sleepers and has a tough nylon construction to extend the life of the pad. This pad comes with a stuff sack, pump sack, and field repair kit.Pros: Compact (especially for a four-season pad), durable, comfortable, good warranty
Cons: Crinkly, expensive
Video Review: Watch this video review on this sleeping pad.
Specs:
Weight: 20 ounces
Thickness: 3 inches
Packed Size: 5 x 11 inches
Full Size: 72 x 25 x 3 inches
R-value: 7.3
MSRP: $250-$260
Which Sleeping Pad Should I Buy?
All of these sleeping pads are great options, but some options are better than others for specific scenarios.
- I want a budget option: Klymit Static V2 NEMO Flyer
- I want a pad for winter: Exped Ultra 7R, Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm NXT
- I’m a side sleeper: Big Agnes Rapide SL Insulated, Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm NXT Sleeping Pad
- I want the lightest possible option: Ether Light XT, Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT
Ultimately, any of the pads on this list will be a good choice. We hope that our guide to the best inflatable sleeping pads will help you find the pad you need for your backpacking adventures.
Max DesMarais is the founder of hikingandfishing.com. He has a passion for the outdoors and making outdoor education and adventure more accessible. Max is a published author for various outdoor adventure, travel, and marketing websites. He is an experienced hiker, backpacker, fly fisherman, backcountry skier, trail runner, and spends his free time in the outdoors. These adventures allow him to test gear, learn new skills, and experience new places so that he can educate others. Max grew up hiking all around New Hampshire and New England. He became obsessed with the New Hampshire mountains, and the NH 48, where he guided hikes and trail runs in the White Mountains. Since moving out west, Max has continued climbed all of the Colorado 14ers, is always testing gear, learning skills, gaining experience, and building his endurance for outdoor sports. You can read more about his experience here: hikingandfishing/about
