Sleep comfortably while camping or hiking with our list of the best camping mattresses. While we ensure our tents, cooking supplies, flashlights, and other gear are high quality, we often neglect our sleeping needs. Good-quality mattresses are necessary for relaxing after a long day.
Camping involves adventures and exploration, and it is essential to have a mattress with thick foam and soft material for optimal comfort. It also protects you from cold, hard, or wet surfaces, allowing you to rest without worries. Lightweight and portable, various mattresses are available to suit your requirements. So, read on to learn more and choose accordingly.
Top Picks
10 Best Camping Mattresses
1. Best Foldable: Milliard Tri Folding Memory Foam Mattress with Washable Cover Queen
The Milliard Tri Folding Mattress is a four-inch-thick memory foam mattress with therapeutic properties. It is plush, offers a comfortable sleeping area, and does not lose its form. You can unfold it on any surface to sleep comfortably. When folded, the dimensions are 58×26.x18in, and when flat, the dimensions are 78×58.x6in. Check out the review of this product for more information.
Pros
- CertiPUR-US certified premium memory foam
- Ultra-soft cover made from bamboo with anti-slip bottom
- Durable, machine-washable cover
- Folds neatly for convenient storage
- Well-ventilated and breathable
- Available in full, queen, and twin bed sizes
- Weighs 42lb
Cons
- Some may find it slightly big
- May be firmer than expected
2. Best Durable:Inofia Memory Foam Tri-fold Mattress With Ultra Soft Removable Cover Twin 6-Inch
The six-inch memory foam tri-fold mattress is soft and offers adequate body support to even light sleepers. Just unfold and place this thick and durable mattress in your tent or on the camping ground and sleep comfortably wherever you are. It measures 38x26x18in when folded, and 78x38x6in when open.
Pros
- Five-inch memory foam over a 4.5-inch foam base
- Thick and breathable mattress
- Bamboo cover with anti-slip bottom
- Easy to assemble
- CertiPUR-US certified memory foam free from chemicals and toxins
- Machine-washable
- Comes with a ten-year warranty, and a 100-night trial period
Cons
- May not come with a storage case
- Does not have handles, making it difficult to move
Point to consider3. Best Portable: Lost Horizon Airsoft 4.5” Self-Inflating Sleeping Pad
Lost Horizon’s airsoft camping mattress has a thickness of 4.5 inches and is made of high-quality foam, providing premium comfort to its users. The mattress also has a has a two-way air valve design that enables one to inflate the bed to a desired width. Moreover, the insulated camping pad does not bounce or make a noise when one turns over, making it a suitable choice for outdoor use.
Pros
- Skin-friendly fabric
- Can sustain weights up to 440lb
- Includes a portable travel bag
- Has a waterproof bottom
- Provides enhanced back support
- Available in multiple sizes
Cons
- May be difficult to deflate
- Might sag a little
4. Best With Non-Slip Bottom: Hazli Matrix Cell Memory Foam Camping Mattress Pad
Hazli ‘s Matrix Cell mattress pad has a high-density memory foam filling, making it a suitable option when on the go. It also features a non-slip bottom that keeps the mattress in place on uneven surfaces and slippery tiles. The camping bedroll comes enclosed in a soft, breathable, and waterproof cover that is machine-wash friendly.
Pros
- Built-in packing straps and buckles
- Has a storage pocket
- CertiPUR-US certified
- Available in multiple sizes
- Includes a carrying bag
Cons
- May not offer good neck support
- May not be crease-resistant
Quick tip5. Best Ergonomically Designed:Cushy Form Tri-Fold Folding Mattress w/Storage & Carry Case
It is a spacious folding foam mattress that can accommodate adults and kids. This product by Cushy is ergonomically built to support the head and align the spine when sleeping. The smartly designed tri-fold mattress is made to promote restful sleep and restore your energy for the next morning.This compact camping mattress measures 75x31x4 inches.
Pros
- High-density, super-firm foam material
- Folds and unfolds without any hassles
- Can be made into a comfortable seat or makeshift sofa
- Queen-size mattress
- Ultra-soft cover with a zipper for easy removal
- Machine-washable cover
- Comes with a storage case to keep it clean and dust-free
Cons
- Some may find it small
- May be thinner than expected
6. Best Double-Layered:Modway 4-Inch Relax Tri-Fold Mattress
Enjoy that extra comfort with the Modway Relax Tri-fold mattress, which is a bed by night and a cushioned chair by day when propped up against the wall. It is double-layered and has a soft cover, and can be placed in the guest room, dorm room, or be used as a camping or hiking sleeping mat. On folding, it measures 25x25x12 inches, and when flat, it is 25x75x4 inches.
Pros
- A 0.5-inch top memory foam layer and 3.5-inch responsive base foam layer
- Ultra-soft removable cover with non-slip bottom
- CertiPUR-US certified memory foam
- Free of mercury, formaldehyde, flame retardants, ozone depleters, and other heavy metals
- Vacuum packed and foldable to fit into a portable case
Cons
- May lose its shape with repeated use
- May be firmer than expected
7. Best Easy-To-Store: Zooobelives Extra Thickness Inflatable Sleeping Pad
Zoooblives extra thickness inflatable sleeping pad is designed to offer protection against hard floorings and cold conditions and provide maximum support to your back. This waterproof sleeping mat can be used on rough surfaces, making it ideal for camping. The built-in pump helps inflate the camping cot pad within minutes.
Pros
- Made of long-lasting 75D polyester fabric
- Warm and comfortable
- No batteries required to inflate
- Portable and easy to store
- Features extra snaps to connect several pads
- Can be used as a floating mattress
Cons
- Might deflate quickly if the cap is not tight
8. Best Superior Comfort: Coleman Quickbed Airbed
This full-sized airbed by Coleman is designed to let adults enjoy a comfortable sleep outdoors. The velvet-like outer surface gives you a cozy feel while resting. The airbed measuring 73 x 53x 8in can fit full-sized sheets post inflation. This lightweight sleeping pad is suitable for camping or when you’re looking to relax in your backyard.
Pros
- Leak-free
- ComfortStrong coil construction for comfort and support
- Double lock valve for locking in the air
- Antimicrobial sleep area
- Mildew-, mold-, moisture-, and odor-resistant
- Lightweight and easy to store
Cons
- Might not be suitable for rough handling
- Does not include a pump
9. Best Machine-Washable: Kampair Portable Camping Air Mattress
Kampair portable camping air mattress can be the perfect choice for adventure-loving people. It measures 4.75-inch thick and 29.5-inch wide, ensuring you sleep comfortably. Crafted from technical cotton and TPU, the quick inflating camping mat supports weights up to 300lb. Further, it features a side zipper to help you connect another mattress for extra room.
Pros
- Water- and tear-resistant
- Machine-washable
- Quick inflation and deflation
- Can be easily rolled up
- Includes a carrying bag
- Top velvet fabric to minimize heat loss
Cons
- Directions to inflate might not be clear
- Does not include an inflation pump
10. Best Puncture-Resistant: SylvanSport Cloud Layer Self-Inflating Mattress
SylvanSport Cloud Layer Self-Inflating camping pad can be a perfect choice if you’re looking for a cozy home-like sleep when camping. Made of polyester fabric with heat-welded seams, this mattress is puncture-resistant and can last for years. Furthermore, the roll-up sleeping mat is easy to store in its carry bag and requires no tools for assembly.
Pros
- Easy to inflate and deflate
- Velvet-touch top layer
- Double air valves to customize the firmness
- Ideal for van or tent camping
Cons
- Surface might be slightly slippery
Quick tip10. Best With Built-In Pillow:Youkada Self-Inflating Camping Mat
This could be one of the best inflating mats with an attached pillow, ideal for two campers. It requires no pump and is relatively easy to set up and remove. It has a nozzle through which the sleeping pad could inflate in seconds. This sleeping pads with built-in pillow is larger and thicker, measuring 78×52.8×1.4 inches.
Pros
- Water-resistant construction keeps you warm and dry in damp weather conditions
- Extra-thick memory sponge protects the spine
- Built-in pillow that does not slide
- Comes with a carry bag
- 12 months of quality assurance with 100% warranty
Cons
- May be difficult to deflate
- Some may find it slightly uncomfortable
How To Choose The Right Mattress For Camping?
Consider the following factors to choose the perfect mattress for your camping needs.
- Mattress types: There are three types of mattresses to choose from – air mattress, foam pads, and self-inflating mattress. Air mattresses weigh less and need to be inflated, foam pads do not require inflation and are comfortable to sleep, and self-inflating beds expand on their own and have a cushiony feel. Choose one that you feel is comfortable for camping.
- Material: It should be durable, waterproof, easy to clean, and tear-resistant. Check the specifications to buy the one that has these features.
- Size and shape: Mattresses differ in size and shape. Some are tapered and ideal for single campers, while some are large for multiple campers. Choose the one that is easy to carry and has enough room to let you sleep comfortably.
- Insulation R-value: A mattress with a high R-value provides good insulation and warmth. Choose the one with a good R-value, especially for winter outings.
Melissa Hawkins, a home improvement expert, says, “To improve the durability of camping mattresses, it’s always better to lay a waterproof ground tarp underneath them for additional protection. Also, this can further reduce the risk of mold build-up.”
Why Trust MomJunction?
This list of the best camping mattresses is curated after scouring numerous product reviews from different trusted websites. Keeping your convenience and comfort in mind, we have listed high-quality mattresses of different types and materials, each with unique aspects. You can go through the detailed descriptions of each one and the buying guide section before choosing the right one for your camping trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What kind of mattress is best for camping?
Mattresses that are portable—compact, lightweight, foldable, or rollable—and easy to maintain or clean are ideal for camping. If they also happen to be made with memory foam, they offer ample comfort as well.
2. Which is better for camping: an air mattress or memory foam?
Air beds or mattresses are more convenient to carry, but they need to be inflated and don’t offer the same amount of comfort as memory foam mattresses. Therefore, air mattresses are better for short camping trips, while memory foam mattresses are ideal for long trips.
3. How can I make my camping mattress more comfortable?
You can couple your camping mattress with futon mattresses and comfy pillows to up the comfort game.
4. How do I keep bedding from getting damp when camping?
Opt for a mattress that comes with a waterproof covering at the bottom and spread a water-resistant groundsheet underneath the mattress for double check. Ensure good airflow for ventilation in the tent to dry out the moisture as much as possible. Try to avoid wet clothes or objects inside the tent.
A high-quality mattress may enhance the way you camp outdoors by coming in handy and providing much-needed comfort when you sleep in a tent. While picking the best camping mattress, make sure to narrow down on a choice that is water-resistant, lightweight, certified for quality, and machine-washable. You may also want to check if the mattress is portable and provides you with the much-needed cushioning for seamless usage while you camp. Finally, choose a mattress of your favorite color based on your tastes and preferences.
Infographic: How To Buy The Best Mattress For Camping Trips?
Good rest and sleep are important during outdoor adventures to energize you all day. A good camping mattress can help you sleep soundly, even in rocky and uneven fields. Look through the infographic below for features that would make a good mattress for your camping trip. Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
Get high-quality PDF version by clicking below.
Download Infographic
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