We
are going to look at three types of mattresses that can be used for
camping and/or backpacking purposes. We will look at the benefits and
drawbacks of an air mattress, foam mattress, and a self inflating
mattress.
Air Mattress
These
mattresses can be found in dimensions ranging from 1" in height and 3
feet in length all the way to 12" in height and the size of a California
King Sleep Number. They require some type of pumping of air into the
mattress in order to inflate. This can be manual or with a small motor.
Benefits-
This is a good choice when one is choosing to car camp or stay at a
campsite. This is a good option when weight and bulk do not play a
factor in one's camping experience.
Drawbacks-
As mentioned before, the size and weight of this product is often the
largest drawback. The plastic materials used to coat this product are
often slippery and users may complain about excessive movement. You do
not want to use an air mattress in cold weather camping due to heat loss
factors.
Foam Mattress
For
camping purposes these mattresses are normally found with dimensions
1-3" in height and with a maximum size comparable to a twin mattress.
Benefits-
This is great option for many campers and backpackers. This is often
the first choice for many ultra-light backpackers given the low weight.
This is a good choice in cold weather camping as well because of
effective insulation properties. In addition you do not have to worry
about puncturing with a foam product.
Drawbacks-
The largest concern of a foam mattress is the bulkiness. Some people
complain about its stiff and rigid materials which take away from the
comfort found in such products. Rigid materials will result in a bulkier
product.
Self Inflating Mattress
This
is a newer product that incorporates the benefits of both an air
mattress and a foam mattress into one product. These mattresses average
1-2" in height and are normally 6-8 feet in length. They are called
"self-inflating" because of a compressible foam layered between an outer
coating of plastic. This plastic is PVC or TPU, and it is sealed with
an air valve to allow air to enter or escape. When one opens the air
valve, the foam sucks air into the mattress to inflate.
Benefits-
As mentioned before, this product takes the benefits of both air and
foam into play. This product often packs the smallest because the foam
is compressible. This product also insulates well given the foam within
the mattress. Important to note that one may want a taller mattress
height in colder weather conditions. Many users find this product the
most comfortable given the air and compressible foam materials used
because the firmness is adjustable.
Drawbacks-
Although this product compresses smaller than most foam mattresses it
can be found to be heavier. This product is often only ounces heavier,
but to an ultra-light backpacker this difference is often enough to make
the choice. In addition this product is can puncture, although field
repairs are relatively simple.
