While backpacking can be a wonderful adventure, there is one major drawback to it: the lack of comfort of your own bed. For couples or single users who prefer lots of space, double sleeping pads are the solution to this problem. Not only are they spacious, they are also specially designed for comfort, and they protect users from harsh weather.
That being said, with the variety of double sleeping pads on the market, it can be difficult to make a selection. Specifications and different features can be confusing, and options can start to look the same after a while. In this article, we have narrowed the many options down to our top 4 picks. We have highlighted special features, advantages, disadvantages, and the standout quality of each product.
To make sure you pick the best double sleeping pad for backpacking for your unique needs, we have also answered some frequently asked questions. This will provide you with the knowledge and know-how needed to make an informed decision.
Product Reviews
Table could not be displayed.This section dissects each product, highlights its main advantage and lists pros and cons to help make your decision easier.
4. Klymit Double V Insulated Sleeping Pad
Some main highlights of this sleeping pad are its Body-Mapping Technology, Klymalite Synthetic Insulation, and Deep Weld Patterning.
Comfort is ensured with the special Body-Mapping Technology: a special V-design that supports all types of sleepers whether they are stomach sleepers, side sleepers, or back sleepers. It is 3 inches thick and provides a lot of cushioning between the user and the ground. The rugged construction also results in stability, eliminating the feeling of the uneven ground. Side rails keep your body in the center of the pad, which prevents tossing and turning.
The Klymalite Insulation adds to the comfort since it traps cold air at the bottom, keeping the warm air around your body in a protective bubble. With an R-value of 4.4, it ensures warmth in the coldest weather and is categorized as a 4-season pad.
Made of high-quality materials such as 75D polyester, it is extremely durable and can endure harsh weather. However, in the case of a mishap, an emergency patch is included. The pad also brags an anti-microbial laminate to make sure it is long lasting – fungus and bacteria growth are stopped which in turn prevents odors.
It is also portable and weighs only 3.5 lbs., making it easy to carry. . It can be inflated with the pump bag included with only 8-10 pumps – this makes it an easy product to set up and travel with.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Portable
- Durable
- Anti-microbial
- Comfortable
- Side rails for centering
- Special Klymalite Insulation
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Very expensive
- Some users report that it loses air during the night
Excellent Heat Retention: This sleeping bag will keep you warm even in very cold weather. In addition to a 4.4 R-value, it brags special Klymalite Insulation Technology. As such, it is suitable for all 4 seasons.
3. Hikenture Double Sleeping Pad
This sleeping pad is very popular and it is easy to say why – it boasts a lightweight nature, portability, and comfort. Made of polyester pongee and laminated with TPU Technology, this sleeping bad is very durable. It is tear resistant and waterproof. The polyester make also makes it easy to clean.
It is also easy to use since it comes with an in-built foot pump for inflation. The inflation and deflation save time and take place within a few minutes. Since the pump is in-built, there is no need to carry a pump. This saves valuable space which is important when backpacking.
In the spirit of maximizing space, it should also be mentioned that this sleeping pad comes with a storage bag so it can be packed easily. Portability is one of its main claims since it compresses down to 35×15 cm and weighs only 3.64 lbs. Hikenture claims that this is more compact and lightweight than other products on the market, making it an ideal choice for backpackers.
Although the sleeping pad is so portable and lightweight, it does not compromise on comfort. It brags 3.75 inches of thickness, making it extremely cushy and plush which is ideal for those with bad backs. Another claim is that it is suitable for all kinds of sleepers as it provides comfort to side sleepers, back sleepers, and even stomach sleepers.
Back support is ensured with the thickness this sleeping pad provides. In addition to this, it is designed for maximum comfort – the wave construction of the pad makes sure that the user is protected from the unevenness of the ground and has a stable surface to sleep on, reducing back pain. Silence is also ensured for a great night of sleep.
The user is also kept cool and comfortable since the product brags an R-value of 1.3 – 1.5. This makes it ideal for hot weather, warm weather, and cool nights.
Not only is it 3.75 inches thick, it is also 47.5 inches wide – the user can sleep in any position and will not be limited by space. If multiple people are using the product, they can fit in comfortably without any cramping.
Pros
- Durable
- Waterproof
- Lightweight
- Portable
- Comfortable
- 90-day money back guarantee
Cons
- Relatively expensive
- Not suitable for cold weather
Extreme Comfort: This sleeping bag is one of the best options for back problems since it provides such great comfort. It boasts 3.75 inches thickness which is excellent for back support. It is also 47.5 inches wide, providing plenty of space for users and making sure they do not feel constricted. This is especially important since it is a warm weather sleeping pad. The construction of the pad also keeps comfort in mind with the wave design aiming to keep the pad stable, even on uneven ground. This prevents shaking and makes for a more comfortable experience. All kinds of sleepers can be comfortable using this sleeping pad since it caters to back sleepers, side sleepers, and stomach sleepers.
2. In Your Prime Double Sleeping Pad
This sleeping pad boasts durability and versatility. It is made from heavy-duty military grade materials to ensure durability. In addition to being constructed with nylon, it also features TPU coating for additional protection. Even the fabric is interwoven so that it is tightly packed, tear-resistant, waterproof, and leak-proof. The manufacturers fully stand behind the product and offer lifetime warranty. Users can ask for a replacement or a full refund if they find problems with the sleeping pad or are not satisfied with the quality.
This sleeping pad also saves time as it only takes up to 50 seconds to inflate. In order to save space, it does not come with a pump but provides an innovative blow-up bag to do the pumping for you. Ideal for backpackers, the sleeping pad is lightweight and portable. Weighing only 2.2 lbs., it is the lightest option on this list.
Comfort is guaranteed as this sleeping pad doesn’t leak air throughout the night – its dual-layer valves effectively prevent this. It’s designed with a special pattern for air pockets which minimize rolling for sound sleep. The 2.5” thickness also provides great cushion.
The sleeping pad brags an R-value of 3.1 to keep users warm and toasty. Perfect for cool and cold weather, it is heat-retaining as well as durable.
One of the most impressive aspects of this sleeping pad is the versatility it provides. The pump bag can be used for other purposes including as a storage bag, water station, and pillow. The clip-on handle can detach to become a survival bracelet and contains a compass, whistle etc.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Portable
- Durable
- Versatile
- Comfortable
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Expensive
Versatility: An outstanding feature of this sleeping pad is the versatility it provides. Not only can the pump bag be used as a storage bag, a water station, a shower station, and even a pillow, but also the handle contains everything needed for survival in case of an emergency.
1. KingCamp Ultralight Double Sleeping Pad
This sleeping pad boasts I-Beam Technology, an anti-rollover system, and ultra-thickness.
Comfort is definitely a priority in the construction of this sleeping pad since it has 5.1 inches thickness for maximum back support. This is customizable since users can adjust the inflation level to suit their particular needs.
The special I-Beam Technology features a wave design to increase comfort and support. Since the sleeping pad is curved, it holds the body in place, effectively reducing movement during the night. Restless sleepers need not worry about rolling over onto the ground. The pad is also skin-friendly which makes it more comfortable to sleep on.
Quality is also ensured since the sleeping pad is made from polyester and reinforced with TPU coating. This protects it from wear and tear, making it durable as well as waterproof. In case of emergencies, two patches are also included for repairs.
Convenience is another feature that is taken into consideration since the pad comes with a valve system for inflation and deflation as well as a compression sack for easy carrying. It is also very compact and lightweight, weighing only 4.4 lbs., making it ideal for backpacking.
In case of any difficulties, one-year warranty is provided and the brand assures customer satisfaction.
Pros
- Comfortable
- Durable
- Lightweight
- Portable
- Anti-rollover design
- One-year warranty
Cons
- Very expensive
Thoughtful Construction: This sleeping pad has been designed carefully to accommodate all kinds of customers. Not only is comfort taken care of with 5.1” thickness, it also incorporates an anti-rolling technology and has a special valve system to reduce air loss.
FAQs
Due to the overwhelming number of features and the relative novelty of these products, consumers are sometimes left confused after an initial search. To help you avoid this, we have answered some commonly asked questions. We hope these answers will help you navigate this landscape.
1. What R-value should I choose?
The R-value refers to how much the sleeping pad can retain heat. This is important to consider if you are planning on backpacking in cold weather. A higher R-value equates to more heat retention and is preferred in cold weather. This generally ranges from 2.0 to 5.5 or higher R-values. Warm weather backpackers prefer a lower R-value, generally below 2.0.
2. What is better – air or foam?
Both types of sleeping pads have their advantages and disadvantages, and your choice will depend on your unique needs. That being said, foam pads distribute weight evenly which makes them very comfortable. However, they do tend to be heavier and bulkier. Air pads are more customizable and can be manipulated to fit your preferences, but they tend to be more expensive. They are also more lightweight and compact.
3. What is the optimal thickness?
Thickness provides additional padding and is the key to comfort for those with bad backs. The minimum thickness you should opt for is 2 inches, but more thickness equals more comfort. For more support, you may want to opt for 3 inches or more.
4. How is a sleeping pad cleaned?
Some sleeping pads are machine washable, and users are advised to use gentle cycles and avoid spirals. However, most sleeping pads can be cleaned without a washing machine – they can simply be wiped down, especially if they’re made of waterproof materials. Harsh chemicals should be avoided to prevent damage to the sleeping pad.
5. Which material is the best?
The main features to look out for in a material are its durability, whether it is easily to clean, and if it is waterproof. Generally, nylon and polyester are used, both of which are durable. Both do have tradeoffs – nylon is more durable while polyester is easier to clean.
Conclusion
Among these choices, keeping back support and comfort in mind, we would suggest the In Your Prime Double Sleeping Pad as the best double sleeping pad for backpacking. With this option, you get the best of both worlds – comfort and quality are guaranteed, and the handle doubles as a survival bracelet, ensuring safety in case of an emergency.
We hope this breakdown helps you make the right decision for your needs to get the best double sleeping pads for backpacking.