5 Common Camping Mat Fails!

Have you ever felt excited to go camping or backpacking, only to have a sleepless night in your tent after a long day?

Maybe you experienced discomfort in your back or spent a lot of money on a high-quality sleeping bag but still ended up shivering throughout the night… Well my friend, like many others you might have entered the camping mat fail zone!

But fear not! Our blog aims to offer seven helpful tips to new campers, hikers, or backpackers to help them avoid common mistakes when setting up their sleeping system.

Before We move into the top 5 common camping mat fails, let’s explore what exactly we mean when we´re talking about these magical sleeping aids.

What is A Camping Mat?

A camping mat, also known as a sleeping/ camping pad, is an item used by campers to provide cushioning and insulation from the ground during overnight stays outdoors. Camping mats come in various types, thicknesses, sizes, and models each with different features and benefits.

The use of camping pads, or sleeping pads, dates back to the early days of camping and outdoor recreation. Before the development of modern camping gear, campers often used natural materials such as leaves, pine needles, or animal hides to create a barrier between themselves and the ground for insulation and comfort.

In the late 1800s and early 1900s, camping became more popular as a recreational activity, and with it came the development of camping gear, including sleeping pads. The first camping pads were made of various materials, such as canvas, cotton, or wool, and were typically stuffed with straw, cotton, or other fibers for cushioning.

In the 1930s, camping pads made of foam rubber were introduced, providing a lightweight and more comfortable alternative to traditional sleeping pads. These foam rubber pads were often used by military personnel during World War II and later became popular among outdoor enthusiasts.

In the 1960s and 1970s, camping pads continued to evolve, with the introduction of self-inflating camping pads made of closed-cell foam and open-cell foam. These pads provided better insulation and comfort than previous models and were also more compact and easier to transport.

Today, camping pads come in a variety of materials, sizes, and styles, including foam, self-inflating, and air pads. The development of camping pads has made camping more comfortable and accessible for people of all ages and abilities, allowing them to enjoy the great outdoors with a good night’s sleep.

The Most Common Types Of Camping Mats

Closed-Cell Foam Pads

Closed-cell foam pads are made of dense, lightweight foam that provides good insulation from the ground. These mats are the most affordable option and are ideal for those who need a lightweight and packable sleeping pad. Closed-cell foam pads are not as comfortable as self-inflating or air camping mats, but they provide adequate insulation and cushioning for a good night’s sleep.

Self-Inflating Camping Mats

Self-inflating camping mats are made of foam and have a valve that allows the mat to inflate automatically when the valve is opened. These mats are thicker and more comfortable than foam mats, and they are also easy to pack and transport.

Self-inflating camping mats are more expensive and heavier than foam mats, but they are worth the investment for those who prioritize comfort during camping.

Air Camping Mats

Air camping mats are made of lightweight materials and are designed to be inflated with air. These mats are the most comfortable option, providing a cushioned surface that conforms to the body’s shape. However, they are more expensive than foam and self-inflating camping mats, and they require a pump or lung power to inflate them. Air camping mats are not as durable as foam or self-inflating mats, and they are more prone to punctures.

Now we know a bit more about camping mats, let’s move on to our 5 Common Camping Mat Fails!

Fail #1 – Not Realizing How Important A Camping Mat Is For Warmth

Camping mats or sleeping pads are essential for warmth and comfort during camping trips. However, some people may not realize their importance due to a lack of knowledge or experience, misconceptions about camping gear, or assuming that other equipment like sleeping bags or blankets will provide enough insulation.

One reason why people may not realize the importance of camping mats for warmth is that they underestimate how much heat can be lost through the ground. Even on a mild night, the ground can be much colder than the air temperature. Without insulation, the body can lose heat rapidly through conduction. A camping mat provides a layer of insulation between the ground and the body, which helps to retain body heat and prevent heat loss.

Another reason could be that some people assume that a sleeping bag alone can provide enough warmth. While sleeping bags are designed to trap heat, they are not sufficient on their own. Especially if the ground is cold. A camping mat complements the insulation provided by a sleeping bag and creates a barrier against the cold ground.

Additionally, some people may not realize that not all camping mats are created equal. Some may be thicker or more insulated than others, and the level of insulation required can depend on the conditions of the camping trip. Therefore, it is important to choose a camping mat that is appropriate for the temperature and ground conditions.

Overall, camping mats are an essential piece of camping gear that provides warmth and comfort during outdoor trips. By understanding their importance, campers can choose the appropriate gear to ensure a comfortable and safe experience.

Fail #2 – Not Understanding Temperature Ratings On Sleeping Mats

Choosing the correct warmth for your camping mat is important to ensure that you stay comfortable and warm while sleeping outdoors. The warmth of a camping mat is typically determined by its insulation properties, which are measured in R-values. A higher R-value means better insulation, which will keep you warmer in colder temperatures.

Many don’t realize that when you lie on your sleeping bag you compress the insulation of the underside of the sleeping bag. Once compressed the insulation is greatly reduced which means that you can get cold from the ground up. The correct sleeping mat will not only keep you comfortable, but it also insulates you from below. Keeping you warm and cozy for a good night’s sleep.

If you’re camping in a colder climate or during the winter months, it’s important to choose a camping mat with a higher R-value to provide adequate insulation and keep you warm throughout the night. On the other hand, if you’re camping in a warmer climate or during the summer months, you may be able to get by with a lower R-value camping mat.

Choosing the correct warmth for your camping mat can also depend on personal preferences and how easily you get cold at night. If you tend to get cold easily, it’s important to choose a camping mat with a higher R-value or consider using additional insulation layers such as a sleeping bag liner or a thicker sleeping bag. Ultimately, choosing the correct warmth for your camping mat is essential for a comfortable and enjoyable outdoor sleeping experience.

What Is The R-Value Of A Sleeping Mat?

The R-value for sleeping mats is a measurement of their thermal resistance, indicating how well they insulate against cold ground. The higher the R-value, the more effective the mat is at retaining your body heat and keeping you warm while you sleep.

Breakdown of R-ratings for sleeping mats:

R-value 0-1: These mats are designed for warm weather and are not well insulated against the cold. They are lightweight and packable, but may not be suitable for cooler temperatures.
R-value 2-3: These mats are good for three-season camping and provide moderate insulation for mild to moderately cold weather. They are still relatively lightweight and packable.
R-value 4-5: These mats are suitable for winter camping and provide excellent insulation for cold temperatures. They are often thicker and heavier than lower R-value mats but offer better warmth.
R-value 6 and higher: These mats are designed for extreme conditions and provide maximum insulation for very cold weather. They are often thicker and heavier than other mats but essential for winter camping or mountaineering.

To avoid this common camping mat fail, it’s important to choose a sleeping mat with the appropriate R-value for your needs to ensure you stay warm and comfortable while sleeping outdoors.

Fail #3 – Buying A Narrow Camping Mat

For new backpackers or hikers, it’s important to choose a sleeping pad that’s the right size for your needs.

While it may be tempting to go for a narrower option, it’s worth considering the benefits of a wider pad. Many entry-level pads are quite narrow, often only a few inches wide. For those who are weight-conscious or covering long distances, a narrow pad might be sufficient. However, a wider pad can make a big difference in terms of comfort.

With a wider pad, you’ll have more room to move around and adjust your sleeping position. This can help prevent your arms from falling off the pad or feeling cramped during the night. Ultimately, a wider pad can make all the difference when it comes to getting a good night’s sleep in the backcountry.

Fail #4 – Not Bringing A Repair Kit

One common camping mat fail that new campers often make is not bringing a repair kit for their sleeping mat. This may seem like a minor oversight, but it can have serious consequences. A deflated sleeping mat can result in a horrible night’s sleep, and in some cases, force you to abandon your trip altogether.

Most new mats will come with a special repair kit that is very light and specific for the mat, don’t forget to bring it on your adventure. If you lose the kit, use it up, or did not receive one, you can usually buy one fairly cheap online or in a specialist outdoor store. You can also use a cycling puncture repair kit!

Fail #5 – Not Understanding Temperature Ratings On Sleeping Bags

Warmth ratings on sleeping bags are important because they help ensure that you stay warm and comfortable during your outdoor adventure, especially during cold weather conditions.

Without proper warmth ratings, you may end up feeling cold, and uncomfortable. Even putting yourself at risk of hypothermia, which can be life-threatening. Different warmth ratings provide information about the temperature range of the bag. They help you choose the right sleeping bag for the conditions you’ll be facing. By understanding and selecting the appropriate warmth rating for your sleeping bag. You can enjoy a more comfortable and safer outdoor experience.

There are 2 temperature ratings that manufacturers generally aim for:

Risk rating – The risk rating on a sleeping bag refers to the lowest temperature at which a person can sleep in the bag without risking serious injury or death.
Comfort rating – The comfort rating on a sleeping bag is the temperature at which an average person can expect to sleep comfortably.

The EN Rating Of Sleeping Bags

There is an industry-standard comfort rating called the EN rating. Although this rating is not mandatory for manufacturers, most reputable companies use it to keep themselves accountable. It’s important to look for companies that have been EN-rated to ensure that you are getting accurate temperature ratings.

Even if a bag has been EN-rated, it’s still essential to know what the numbers on the bag mean. For example, a bag with a 20 degrees Fahrenheit or negative six degrees Celsius rating may have a comfort rating of 32 degrees Fahrenheit, and the transition range could be at 20 degrees Fahrenheit, meaning you’ll start to feel cold. The risk range, which indicates when you’re in danger, maybe at negative nine degrees Fahrenheit. Thus, it’s crucial to research and understand the temperature ratings before purchasing a sleeping bag.

In Summary

A good camping mat is a game-changer for a comfortable and restful night’s sleep in the great outdoors. Whether you opt for a closed-cell foam pad, a self-inflating mat, an air pad, or a camping cot mat. It’s important to choose one that suits your needs, budget, and camping conditions.

By avoiding the common camping mat fails listed in the article above. You can ensure a cozy and restful night’s sleep during your outdoor adventures. So, get out there and enjoy the great outdoors, with the comfort and warmth of your trusty camping mat!

5 Common Camping Mat Fails! – Are You Guilty?