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10 Best Camping Mat For Side Sleepers 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Floor GAIALOOP Memory Foam Futon Mattress Car Camping Bed Glamping Roll Up Mattress, Japanese Floor Sleeping Mat Camp Cot Pad Travel Guest Side Sleepers Honey Orange [Single:75 * 30 * 3"]

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,148
Thickness
Weight
Durability

Most important from
1425 reviews

Thickness
The 3-inch thickness provides exceptional comfort that makes it feel like you're not even sleeping on a cot.
Weight
Despite being thicker and heavier than typical mats, it's ideal for car camping or van trips rather than backpacking.
Durability
The waterproof, removable cover is easy to clean and keeps the foam protected from moisture during outdoor use.
Size
Its size is perfectly compact and portable for solo camping, fitting snugly in tight spaces without sacrificing comfort.

The Gaialoop Memory Foam Futon Mattress features a thick 3-inch layer combining supportive high-density foam and softer memory foam, providing notable comfort for side sleepers who need cushioning to relieve pressure points. Its size of 75 by 30 inches accommodates a single user, though the narrow width may feel tight for some.

While specific insulation ratings are not provided, the memory foam and waterproof cover offer moderate protection against cold and damp ground, making it suitable for mild conditions rather than very cold environments or long-term insulation needs. Weighing nearly 6 kilograms (about 13 pounds), this mattress is heavier than typical ultralight mats and is better suited for car camping, van trips, or glamping instead of backpacking or extended hikes.

The removable, washable cover with a waterproof coating enhances durability and ease of maintenance by protecting the foam from moisture and extending its lifespan. The mattress requires 48 to 72 hours to fully expand after unpacking, especially in warm conditions. This mat delivers excellent comfort and solid durability for side sleepers seeking a soft, supportive surface during short-term camping or indoor guest use, though it is less ideal for lightweight travel or extreme weather.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,148
Thickness
Weight
Durability

Most important from
1425 reviews

Thickness
The 3-inch thickness provides exceptional comfort that makes it feel like you're not even sleeping on a cot.
Weight
Despite being thicker and heavier than typical mats, it's ideal for car camping or van trips rather than backpacking.
Durability
The waterproof, removable cover is easy to clean and keeps the foam protected from moisture during outdoor use.
Size
Its size is perfectly compact and portable for solo camping, fitting snugly in tight spaces without sacrificing comfort.
#2

Big Agnes Rapide SL - Insulated Sleeping Pad, Ultralight, All Season Compact Backpacking and Hiking, Pumphouse Sack Included, Orange, 25x78 Wide Long

Rating
8.8
Thickness
Insulation (R-Value)
Weight

Most important from
275 reviews

Thickness
Best air mattress experience with unmatched comfort and support, preventing the feeling of rolling off.
Insulation (R-Value)
Remarkably comfortable, even in low forties ground temperatures, thanks to its body heat reflective capabilities.
Weight
While super light and compact, it can be noisy when you move, which might be a minor inconvenience.
Size
Inflates in just 1.5 minutes with the supplied air sack and packs down small, making it perfect for quick setup and easy transport.

The Big Agnes Rapide SL Insulated Sleeping Pad is a great choice for side sleepers looking for comfort and warmth during three-season camping. With its 4.25-inch thick outer chambers and 3.5-inch thickness, it provides a cushioned, stable surface that cradles you comfortably. The pad's R-Value of 4.8 means it offers excellent insulation, keeping you warm even as temperatures drop, thanks to its heat reflective film layers.

At just 25 ounces and packing down to a compact 4.5” x 8”, it's lightweight and highly portable, making it easy to carry on your adventures. The high-volume valves and included pumphouse inflation sack make inflating and deflating the pad quick and easy, with fine-tuning adjustments for your preferred firmness. Made from durable, superlight double rip-stop nylon fabric with aviation-grade TPU lamination, it promises longevity and reliability.

While the pad offers excellent durability and comfort, it may be on the pricier side compared to other options. Additionally, the 25-inch width might be slightly narrow for larger individuals who prefer more space. The included repair patches and lifetime warranty provide peace of mind against any potential manufacturing defects. This pad is ideal for campers who prioritize lightweight gear without sacrificing comfort and warmth.

Rating
8.8
Thickness
Insulation (R-Value)
Weight

Most important from
275 reviews

Thickness
Best air mattress experience with unmatched comfort and support, preventing the feeling of rolling off.
Insulation (R-Value)
Remarkably comfortable, even in low forties ground temperatures, thanks to its body heat reflective capabilities.
Weight
While super light and compact, it can be noisy when you move, which might be a minor inconvenience.
Size
Inflates in just 1.5 minutes with the supplied air sack and packs down small, making it perfect for quick setup and easy transport.
#3

Sea to Summit Ether Light XR Pro Insulated Sleeping Pad, Rectangular - Large (78 x 25 x 4 inches)

Rating
8.2
Thickness
Insulation (R-Value)
Weight

Most important from
39 reviews

Thickness
The sleeping pad offers exceptional comfort, making it the most comfortable pad experienced after trying multiple types.
Insulation (R-Value)
It provides excellent warmth even in temperatures dropping to the mid-30s, pairing effectively with a sleeping bag for cold nights.
Weight
The pad packs down very small and fits easily inside a backpack, which is ideal for lightweight and space-conscious backpacking.
Durability
No air leaks were detected after several nights of use, demonstrating reliable durability and airtight construction.

The Sea to Summit Ether Light XR Pro Insulated Sleeping Pad is a great choice if you're a side sleeper looking for comfort and warmth during camping trips. At nearly 4 inches thick, it provides a plush and stable surface that helps keep your body supported in any sleeping position. Its standout feature is its high insulation, with an ASTM-tested R-Value of 7.4, making it excellent for cold, even four-season camping. Despite this heavy-duty insulation, it stays lightweight at just 1.74 pounds and packs down smaller than many similar pads, which is ideal if you want to keep your backpack light.

The rectangular shape and large size (78 x 25 inches) offer plenty of room to stretch out comfortably. The Air Sprung Cell construction makes it quieter and more stable than some other pads, which side sleepers will appreciate. Inflation and deflation are easy thanks to the XPRESS valve and integrated pump sack.

It’s not water-resistant, so it’s best used with a groundsheet or in dry conditions. Also, it requires careful cleaning and storage to avoid damage, as machine washing or extreme temperatures can harm it. While the price might be on the higher side, the quality and comfort it delivers justify the investment if you camp often and want reliable warmth and cushioning.

Rating
8.2
Thickness
Insulation (R-Value)
Weight

Most important from
39 reviews

Thickness
The sleeping pad offers exceptional comfort, making it the most comfortable pad experienced after trying multiple types.
Insulation (R-Value)
It provides excellent warmth even in temperatures dropping to the mid-30s, pairing effectively with a sleeping bag for cold nights.
Weight
The pad packs down very small and fits easily inside a backpack, which is ideal for lightweight and space-conscious backpacking.
Durability
No air leaks were detected after several nights of use, demonstrating reliable durability and airtight construction.

Buying Guide for the Best Camping Mat For Side Sleepers

Choosing the right camping mat is crucial for a comfortable night's sleep, especially for side sleepers who need extra support and cushioning. When selecting a camping mat, consider factors such as thickness, insulation, weight, and durability. These specifications will help you find a mat that provides the right balance of comfort and practicality for your camping needs.
ThicknessThickness refers to how thick the camping mat is when fully inflated or laid out. This spec is important because it directly affects the comfort and support the mat provides. For side sleepers, a thicker mat (around 2.5 inches or more) is generally better as it offers more cushioning for the hips and shoulders, reducing pressure points. If you are a side sleeper, look for mats that are at least 2.5 inches thick to ensure a comfortable sleep.
Insulation (R-Value)Insulation, measured by the R-value, indicates how well the mat can keep you warm by preventing heat loss to the ground. This is important for maintaining body heat, especially in colder conditions. R-values range from 1 (minimal insulation) to 5 or higher (excellent insulation). For side sleepers who often need more comfort and warmth, an R-value of 3 or higher is recommended, particularly if you plan to camp in cooler temperatures.
WeightWeight is the total mass of the camping mat, which is crucial for backpackers and hikers who need to carry their gear over long distances. Lightweight mats (under 1 pound) are ideal for those who prioritize portability, while heavier mats (over 2 pounds) may offer more comfort and durability. As a side sleeper, you might need to balance weight with comfort, opting for a mat that is light enough to carry but thick and cushioned enough to provide a good night's sleep.
DurabilityDurability refers to how well the camping mat can withstand wear and tear, including punctures and abrasions. This is important for ensuring the mat lasts through multiple camping trips. Durable mats are often made from thicker materials and may have reinforced areas. For side sleepers, a durable mat is essential to prevent deflation and maintain comfort throughout the night. Look for mats made from high-quality materials and with good reviews on durability.
SizeSize refers to the dimensions of the camping mat when it is fully inflated or laid out. This includes both the length and width. A larger mat provides more space to move around, which can be beneficial for side sleepers who may shift positions during the night. Standard sizes are usually around 72 inches long and 20 inches wide, but you may want to consider a wider mat (25 inches or more) for extra comfort.

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