Best Camping Sleeping Pad for Side Sleepers? Need Recommendations!

Camping
1

I’m planning a camping trip soon and I’m on the hunt for the best sleeping pad that caters specifically to side sleepers. I’ve tried a couple in the past but always wake up with shoulder and hip pain.

Here are a few things I’m looking for:

  • Comfort: I need something that won’t leave me sore after a night in the woods.
  • Weight: Since I’m backpacking, I can’t lug around a heavy pad.
  • Portability: It should be easy to pack down and carry.
  • Durability: It needs to withstand rough terrain and outdoor conditions.
  • Insulation: I’ll be camping in cooler weather, so some warmth would be great!

If anyone has experiences with sleeping pads that meet these needs or any particular models you’d recommend, I’d really appreciate your input. Your insights will definitely help me make a better choice. Thanks in advance!

2

For side sleepers, getting a thicker pad is crucial to avoid pressure points. I personally love the Exped MegaMat; it’s 3.9 inches thick, and I wake up pain-free every time!

3

Absolutely! The thickness really helps. I’ve had bad experiences with thin pads leading to sore hips. A good 3-inch minimum is what I recommend.

4

Material matters too! Look for pads with a softer top layer. My Therm-a-Rest NeoAir has a cozy feel that cushions my sides just right. Less pressure = better sleep!

7 Likes
5

That sounds great! I struggle with hard surfaces. What model do you have specifically? I might consider that.

6

I’ve tried various options, but I keep coming back to the Klymit Static V. It’s lightweight and has unique side rails that really support side sleeping without rolling off.

7

Lightweight is key for backpacking! I agree with jgilmore about the Klymit. I used it last summer, and it was surprisingly comfortable for such a slim pad.

2 Likes
8

I’m a bit skeptical about inflatable pads. I’ve had issues with leaks in the past. Anyone faced similar hassles with side-sleeper pads?

9

Totally understand! But I didn’t have any leaks with the Big Agnes Q-Core. Its durability is impressive for a side sleeper’s needs.

10

You guys should also consider the insulation of these pads. If you’re camping in colder climates, I recommend ones with R-values above 4 to keep warm.

11

That’s a great point! I didn’t think about that when I started camping. What is the R-value of the Exped MegaMat?

12

The Exped MegaMat has an R-value of around 8! Perfect for winter camping. It’s a bit bulky but definitely worth it for warmth and comfort for side sleepers.

13

Actually, for winter camping, I personally prefer my Therm-a-Rest MondoKing. It’s big enough and has a high R-value as well, but it’s not as portable.

14

I appreciate all these suggestions! Maybe I need to prioritize comfort over weight for my next camping trip. Has anyone tried multi-purpose pads?

15

I’ve used an inflatable sleeping pad that doubles as a seat cushion. It’s great for side sleeping too.

16

I think it’s important to test before you buy. I never would’ve thought I’d need a thicker pad until I tried one out. The difference was huge!

17

When considering sleeping pads for side sleepers, R-value is crucial! A higher R-value means better insulation, which is especially important in colder climates. I recommend looking for pads with an R-value of at least 3 for comfort at night.

18

That’s a great point! I’ve used a couple of pads with an R-value over 4, and they’ve kept me warm even when temperatures dipped below freezing. I found the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm pretty fantastic!

19

Absolutely agree on R-values! Also, pay attention to the materials. Synthetic insulations usually retain warmth well, but consider how they compress under weight. Some even provide additional comfort for side sleepers.

20

Exactly! I’ve found that the foam pads can sometimes be too rigid for side sleepers. A hybrid pad might offer the best of both worlds - good insulation and some cushion.