Best Backpacking Sleeping Pads For Side Sleepers Of 2024: Best Picks & Buying Guides

Sarah Combs By, Sarah Combs
Updated
Sleepingo Sleeping Pad
Image credit: Amazon.com

Our Top Picks

1. Best Overall: Sleepingo Sleeping Pad

Sleepingo is the lightest, thinnest and most flexible air mattress available. The unique design of the Sleepingo allows for maximum airflow to keep you cool in your sleep. Super lightweight and super tough, it's made from a high-strength material that's an outdoor-grade performance. Read Review

2. Runner: Trekology UL Sleeping Pad, Inflatable Camping Mat

Trekology UL Sleeping Pad is a heavy-duty mat made of strong and durable material with a premium water-resistant coating. It's perfect for use as a camping mattress, or as an extra floor in your home. Read Review

3. Best Design: WELLAX UltraThick FlexFoam Sleeping Pad

With its revolutionary design, this sleeping pad is not just durable but also provides a good balance between comfort and weight. This sleeping pad is constructed with an innovative, tear-resistant material - keeping you worry-free on every trip! Read Review

4. Best Durable: POWERLIX Sleeping Pad

The POWERLIX is a compact sleeping pad with a unique design that's made to last. It features a waterproof design and is designed to be versatile so you can use it in many ways. Read Review

If you’re a side sleeper, you know how it feels to sleep on your left side. It can be really uncomfortable and make you want to give up after a while. But that doesn’t mean you should just surrender and accept it. Instead, get yourself a good sleeping pad and see how much better your nights can be.

However, it might not be that easy if your left side is the dominant one due to some external factors like body type, mattress or bed frame alignment as well as internal factors like weak shoulder muscles or other anatomical issues. That’s where a good sleeping pad comes in handy. As an end-user who sleeps on the same sleeping surface every night, this article elaborates on some of the best backpacking sleeping pads for side sleepers with recommendations based on real-world experience from other users as well as our own testing.

After lots of research based on customer feedback, We think the best backpacking sleeping pads for side sleepers is Sleepingo Sleeping Pad. We have provided you with a detailed buyer's guide and many other good choices so that you can decide which one is the best for your requirements.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Sleepingo Sleeping Pad
Our Score:
9.8
Sleepingo
  • TOUGH, DURABLE, LARGE AND COMFY SLEEPING PAD - made with the strongest outdoor-grade material, this sleeping pad is perfect for any weather conditions. Able to accompany you on any type of adventure, this camping mattress pad inflates to an impressive size of 75" X 25" and will give you the comfort you need.
  • 2" THICK SLEEP SUPPORT - Want to sleep comfortably anywhere? Then you will love this sleeping pad! No need to suffer with a cheap, flimsy, and undersized outdoor sleeping pad! This quality portable camping pad is perfect; super sturdy and extremely comfortable - great for any sleep position!
  • PREMIUM QUALITY, ROBUST and STURDY: This heavy-duty mat is made of strong and durable 40D nylon with a premium water-resistant coating. It is a camp sleeping pad, hammock sleeping pad that designed to sustain extreme environments. It is a perfect camp mat for 3 seasons. The estimated R-value is around 1.6 to 2, with the exact value varies by measurement. Grab one and get ready for your hiking or camping trips!
  • Brand new design - grab yours today! The new curvature design lightweight sleeping pad that embraces your body to ensure a better sleep. Larger valve opening for faster inflation and deflation. Upgraded 40D material making it super light and ultra durable. Get one and feel the difference in this design today! Pairs well with Trekology ALUFT ultralight camping pillow or any foam pillows.
TOP Choice #3 WELLAX UltraThick FlexFoam Sleeping Pad
Our Score:
9.5
WELLAX
  • NO MORE BACK-PAIN : The only foam camping mat you will ever need! Say goodbye to back pain because your weight is supported by the UltraFlex Memory Foam mattress. Roll over or sleep on your side.
  • REVOLUTIONARY DESIGN & TEAR RESISTANT : Provides a good balance between comfort and durability. This camping pad is waterproof, tear-resistant and insulates heat. Use this camping mat in any weather and on any terrain.
4 POWERLIX Sleeping Pad
Our Score:
9.3
POWERLIX
  • Unique Everlasting Durability: It's the mat of all mats! The Sleeping Pad is made of durable, outdoor grade materials, such as 75D nylon. It includes thermal insulation, to keep your body warm from the cold winter ground. It is 100% waterproof, making it perfect for any outdoor activities. You can say goodbye to sore backs and other discomforts normally left by bumps and rocks underneath the floor of your tent!
  • Everything You Need for Outdoors: This exclusive item comes with a Sleeping Pad, carry bag, 2 repair kits, and an inflating bag. A patch kit is also included, stitched into the top of the storage bag. The inflating bag was designed with you in mind, for all of your needs. In addition to inflating the mattress, it can be used for several different things, such as a pillow, a waterproof carry or laundry bag, or to carry the sleeping mat itself!
  • * 100% MONEY BACK GUARANTEE ensures this will quickly become your favorite no-risk purchase. Many people are stocking up with several of these to outfit the entire family or share with friends. We committed 90-Days Money Back Guarantee / 2-Year Warranty / Life Time Support, A perfect gift for yourself and your loved ones!
  • * 4" THICK FOR MAXIMUM COMFORT in this premium self inflating sleeping pad. You get a very comfy extra thick 4 inch of air padding that protects from rough ground, hard floors, and cold conditions. Providing a true 4-season pad with an estimated R-value of 4. Get a great night's sleep anywhere at any time. Measures 74" x 24" x 4" fully inflated.
6 Self Inflating Sleeping Pad
Our Score:
9.0
Clostnature
  • IDEAL COMFORT: 2'' mummy sleeping pad is specially designed to suit your sleeping bag. When you're in the backcountry one comfort you shouldn't sacrifice is a good night's sleep. A sleeping pad is cheap sleep insurance which offers superior cushioning and support, you won't feel the ground with this foam sleeping pad. What's more, we offer a limited LIFETIME WARRANTY!!!
  • EXCELLENT INSULATION: Waterproof fabric with 2'' memory foam padding, combining air and foam insulation, self-inflating mats are some of the least expensive and well-insulated camping mattress available. The camping sleeping pad introduces environment-friendly material without any plastic or chemical smell, this inflatable sleeping pad helps you have a pleasant sleep at night by offering firm supporting. Up to 4.6 R-value provides ultimate insulation in cold weather
  • V-shaped design delivers superior support and comfort no matter how you sleep – on your side, stomach or back; dynamic side rails cradle you and keep you on your pad
  • SLEEP COMFORTABLY ALL NIGHT LONG: Luxurious amount of rolling room and comfort (30" Wide and 3" Thick). Inflation-20-30 Breaths
8 INVOKER Camping Sleeping pad
Our Score:
8.8
INVOKER
  • RISK-FREE BUYING Producing products that satisfy customers is our main goal. Try it with confidence, if you don’t like it completely, please send us a message, we will refund you, we also provide free replacement service for life, and the goods do not need to be returned, you only need to send us a message!
  • SUPER TOUGH FABRIC 3.15-inch thickness FlexFoam and outdoor-grade tear-resistant fabric provide your body with the most comfortable and stable sleep, no longer worry about the stones and branches underground will damage the air cushion.used only for strongest camping equipment. Provides a good balance between comfort and durability. It is Virtually SILENT, WATERPROOF, No more crinkly or squeaky noise, your perfect pad for using in your tent, sleeping bag, or any floor or hard surface;
  • FRIENDLY: IFORREST camping mattress supports from both sides of the mattress, ensuring great night's sleep.
  • 1.5" THICK PHENOMENAL COMFORT: IFORREST PATENT PENDING Self-inflating sleeping pad with double-sided support is designed for camping. Size: 77”x 26”x 1.5”, a true 4-season camp bed with an R-value of 4.9.
10 MEETPEAK Sleeping Pad
Our Score:
8.5
MEETPEAK
  • 🍀【Enjoy Double Bed & Quality Assurance】 - Our Camping Pad is equipped with snap fasteners on the sides, with which you can connect two sleeping pad together easily, thus creating a double bed. Just try it, you will get the new joy of camping. This sleeping pad is 2021 the newest and unique style, we are confident that you will love our backpacking sleeping mat. If you are unhappy with our sleeping pad, PLEASE reach out to us directly and we will do our best for you.
  • 🍀【100% Waterproof & Tear Resistant】 - Built for a lifetime of adventures, the sleeping pad made of extra thick non-toxic 40d nylon provides a unique balance between low weight & durability. Thermoform sealing and TPU coating make the camping pad performance better in severe conditions(Rain, snow, cold winter, uneven ground with lumps & holes). You can say goodbye to sore backs and other discomforts normally left by bumps and rocks underneath the floor of your tent!

What Do You Need To Keep In Mind When Selecting best backpacking sleeping pads for side sleepers?

There are numerous factors for customers to consider whenever they decide to buy a best backpacking sleeping pads for side sleepers. Simultaneously, it comes with many product types and brands, which makes it difficult for you to choose yourself. Thus, we are here to give you support, guidance, and solutions to these problems.

Our buying guide will highlight some most outstanding features related to the best backpacking sleeping pads for side sleepers of 2024. But you are expected to go through the frequently asked questions first:

  • Could you list some best-seller products in the current market?
  • Which website should you go through to learn more about the product?
  • Do you think your investment in this product is worth it?
  • What should be taken into account for selecting the best item?
  • What are the product's advantages for customers?

Nowadays, the number of technology sale networks, especially websites, sale forums, or even the online space for customers’ comments, has been dramatically increased. So, you can quickly obtain information on best backpacking sleeping pads for side sleepers available on these sources. 

Along with reading the update of best backpacking sleeping pads for side sleepers on famous websites, you are also expected to go through some needed things below to make a great decision.

Warmth

Warmth is the main reason you should bring along a sleeping pad in colder climates. Your pad should only be one component of an entire sleep system that keeps you warm and alive. This is crucial to ensure that your setup stays as light and warm as possible. Consider the shelter that you will use most often. Double-walled shelters, such as a snow cave or tent made from properly manufactured snow, are much more comfortable than open bivys or other ultralight shelters. Your sleeping pad, and your backpacking sleeping bag are the two most important things that keep you comfortable and warm at night. Many people mistakenly blame their sleeping bag for their sleepless nights and cold temperatures. You need to be warm. But, your sleeping bag is not the only thing that matters. The ground may heat you faster than your pad.

Thickness And Comfort

When sleeping on the ground comfort is subjective. Most people can't bear to camp or backpack at night. The latest gear has improved on this area. Backpacking pads can be thinner than pads and camping pads and are less plush.

Inflation Level

Backpacking Light conducted an experiment to determine how inflation affects the R-value real world of a mattress. The pad will be warmer if there is more air. You will also find it uncomfortable to sleep on a firm pad.

Sleep Surface

What surfaces have the best heat retention? This is an important aspect of keeping warm when you're outside. It's best to choose snow over rock if you have to make a choice between them. The majority of the snow you see is made up air. Rock is great at quickly transferring warmth. It is better to sleep on snow than it is rock if the overnight temperatures are below freezing. You can find warm and comfortable places to sleep on soft, soft surfaces, no matter the season.

Sleeping Pad Dimensions And Shape

Many sleeping pads can be purchased in unisex sizes and are available in either two or three sizes. The average "regular" pad is 72 inches in length and 20 inches wide at its widest point. While the larger pads are between 77 to 80 inches and 25 inches wide, they can be as large as 77 inches and 80 inches. They can be divided into two main categories in terms of their shape: rectangular or mummy pads, which taper toward the feet to reduce weight; and rectangular pads, which are larger and more accommodating for active and comfort-minded sleepers.

Weight

Many backpackers weigh weight. Just look at how fast the ultralight backpacking movement has grown. Like any other piece of gear outdoors, the lighter it is the more delicate it will become. No matter how heavy your gear is, you should take care to set up camp or store it safely.

R-Values

Manufacturers assign pads an R-value, which is a measure of how heat resistant they are. A pad that has a higher R-value will feel warmer. This equation can be described as linear. A pad with an average R-value 3 will resist heat loss three times more than one with an R value of 1.

Durability

Air-constructed sleeping pads have brought with them a serious concern. These air-filled sleeping pads are extremely durable. It is also important to be able to repair them quickly. Every pad we tried came with a small patch kit and all pads had a warranty. It is worth checking before you buy. The thickness of the laminated shell is measured in "denier", with a greater number representing thicker/more dense materials. We have found backpacking sleeping pad denier values as high as 75D, with 15D being the smallest.

FAQs

How Should I Inflate My Self-inflating Pad The First Time?

To ensure the best possible performance, fill your mattress with either air from your own breath, or pump, and allow it to inflate for at least 2 hours before you use it.

What Is The Best Way To Clean My Sleeping Pad?

If you are in close contact with your mattress' surface, regular cleaning can extend its life.
Avoid putting your mattress in the washer. It is better to clean your mattress with a hose than in the washing machine. While washing, make sure to seal the valve. A quick scrub with Formula 409 (r), BioClean (tm) All Purpose Cleaner or another general cleaner will do the trick.
Use rubbing alcohol to clean tree sap from the surface. It will be a tedious job and the sap may leave stains. Any remaining stickiness can be removed by dusting the area with baby powder or talc.

How Do I Inflate My Self-inflating Pad During Winter?

In freezing conditions, avoid breath inflating your self-inflating pad. Your breath and moisture can cause the mattress to freeze. In colder weather, the mattress might take longer to inflate. If the mattress needs more air, you can use a pump bag or an electric pump.

How To Store A Sleeping Pad?

Closed-cell foam pads can easily be rolled up or folded up. They can also be kept naked or in an enclosed container. You can roll up open-cell foam pads, but it's best to keep them semi-inflated for longer-term storage. After deflating the air core pads, you can simply store them in their case by rolling them up.

Can I Use More Than One Sleeping Pad?

But I do not encourage you to have more than one. This can be done by using a closed cell foam pad for the base, and then putting an air core or open-cell foam pad on top. This can be a fantastic way to increase the R-values especially for frozen terrain.

How Do I Choose The Right Size And Shape Sleeping Pad?

Your height will determine the size of your pad. You should be able lay down on the pad with your head and feet not touching the ground. It is only a matter of personal choice that the shape can be more difficult. Your sleeping bag will not be affected by the shape of your pad.

What Is A Good Weight For A Backpacking Sleeping Pad?

This question really depends on your intended purpose. Ultralight pads should weigh no more than one pound for those who plan to backpack or through-hike. You can probably get away with a pad that weighs less than five pounds if you are only planning to go on a short trip. For car camping, or any other purposes that do not require the pad to be carried, anything over 5 pounds is best.

How Should I Store My Sleeping Pad?

The mattress can be self-inflated by storing it unrolled in a dry area with the valve opened. The foam will self-inflate faster when you camp. Mildew can be caused by prolonged storage in damp areas. To protect your mattress from dirt, sharp objects and other debris we recommend that you leave the valve open.

What Is R-value?

R-value, which is an abbreviation for resistance value, refers to the pad’s ability to resist heat transmissionence. For colder temperatures, high R-value sleeping pad are more suitable than lower R-value ones.

As mentioned above, all of our information is drawn from actual research, so the accuracy level is reliable. Furthermore, best backpacking sleeping pads for side sleepers of 2024 will be updated regularly to add new data. You should keep a close eye on our websites for any updates or additions.

After all, we are always available to support and assist you with any problems related to best backpacking sleeping pads for side sleepers. Please feel free to contact us as soon as possible. Thank you!


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About Sarah Combs

Sarah Combs
Sarah Combs is a visual editor who loves to travel and hike. She enjoys taking photographs of her journeys, which help her to remember the beautiful places she's been to. Sarah is grateful for the opportunities that she has had to see the world and looks forward to continuing to explore new places in the future. Sarah is the editor of CampfireHQ since 2021 and has written on a variety of topics, from camping, and hiking to other outdoor guides.

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