10 Reviews: Best Sleeping Pads for Car Camping (Mar 2023)
Enjoy the sensation of sleeping under a sea of stars without having to freeze and curse the rough ground with these ten best sleeping pads below.
by
A. Wahyu
·
updated on
·
price $36.53 - $299.00
·
496 views
·
1 visitors liked products on this page
We hope you love the shops and products we recommend! Just so you know, our site may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page. Oh, and FYI — prices are accurate and products in stock as of time of publication.
Comparison Table
Product Image |
1
![]()
Coleman |
2
![]()
Hyke & Byke |
3
![]()
Therm-a-Rest |
4
![]()
KLYMIT |
5
![]()
Lightspeed Outdoors |
6
![]()
REI Co-op |
7
![]()
Exped |
8
![]()
REI Co-op |
9
![]()
Exped |
10
![]()
REI Co-op |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Product Name | Self-Inflating Camping Pad with Pillow | Standard Appalachian | Z Lite Sol | Insulated Static V Lite | 2 Person PVC-Free Air Bed Mattress | Camp Bed Self-Inflating Sleeping Pad | SynMat HL | Camp Dreamer XL | MegaMat Max 15 | Kingdom Insulated Sleep System 40 |
0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | |
Features | With a pillow! | Top-notch material | Hassle-free pad | Supports all sleeping positions | Perfect for couple | Perfect for extreme cold | Great for side-sleepers | Quickly self-inflates | The thicker, the better | Real bed sensation |
Material | Polyester | 70D Ripstop Nylon | ThermaCapture | Polyester | Polyester | Polyester | 20D fabric | Polyester | 50D Nylon | Polyester |
Color | Blue | Green | Limon/Silver | Gold | Aqua, Green | Canyon Ridge | Orange | Thunder Blue | Burgundy | Black Coffee |
Type | Self-Inflating | Air Pad | Closed Cell Foam Pad | Air Pad | Air Pad | Self-Inflating | Air Pad | Self-Inflating | Self-Inflating | Air Pad |
Weight | 5.03 lbs | 1 lb 12 oz | 14 oz | 19.6 oz | 5.6 lbs | 3 lbs 10 oz | 1.05 lbs | 6 lbs 6 oz | 7 lbs 10 oz | 15 lbs 9 oz |
Dimensions | 76 x 25 x 2.5 in | 76 x 24 x 4 in | 72 x 20 in | 72 x 23 x 2.5 in | 80.1 x 7.1 x 55.1 in | 72 x 25 x 2.5 in | 77.6 in x 25.6 in x 7 cm | 78 x 32 x 4 in | 77.6 x 30.3 x 6 in | 79 x 56 x 6 in |
price | $36.53 | $59.99 | $70.57 | $94.00 | $97.81 | $99.95 | $168.98 | $179.00 | $299.00 | $299.00 |
Buy at | view product on Coleman view product on Amazon view product on eBay | view product on Hyke & Byke view product on Amazon view product on eBay | view product on Therm-a-Rest view product on Amazon view product on eBay | view product on Klymit view product on Amazon view product on eBay | view product on Lightspeed Outdoors view product on Amazon view product on eBay | view product on REI Co-op view product on Amazon view product on eBay | view product on Exped view product on Amazon view product on eBay | view product on REI Co-op view product on Amazon view product on eBay | view product on Exped view product on Amazon view product on eBay | view product on REI Co-op view product on Amazon view product on eBay |
We’ve talked about the best sleeping bags ranging from down, synthetic, to the one for a hammock. Likewise with sleeping pads for winter camping and hammock camping. Now, for those who plan a car camping in the near future, this is your chance to equip your sleeping system with a decent sleeping pad. Since you guys travel by car, of course, you’re not limited by size and weight. All you need is a comfy base which can make your trip less stressful and your body toasty. If you don’t have any idea where to start, start here.
Table of contents
Product list
- Coleman Self-Inflating Camping Pad with Pillow : With a pillow!
- Hyke & Byke Standard Appalachian: Top-notch material
- Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol : Hassle-free pad
- KLYMIT Insulated Static V Lite: Supports all sleeping positions
- Lightspeed Outdoors 2 Person PVC-Free Air Bed Mattress: Perfect for couple
- REI Co-op Camp Bed Self-Inflating Sleeping Pad : Perfect for extreme cold
- Exped SynMat HL: Great for side-sleepers
- REI Co-op Camp Dreamer XL: Quickly self-inflates
- Exped MegaMat Max 15: The thicker, the better
- REI Co-op Kingdom Insulated Sleep System 40 : Real bed sensation
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Let's dive into these questions!
What is R-value?
The R-value is a rate used to measure the ability of a sleeping pad to resist heat flow through, or we can also say, the amount of warmth it provides. The higher the number, the better it will insulate you from cold surfaces.
What are the types of sleeping pads?
There are three basic types of pads on the market. Air pads are my favorite because you can adjust the firmness of the mattress by releasing or adding air from the valve. It is also extremely comfy, lightweight, and the most compact type of pad when packed. Self-inflating pads let in the air automatically simply by leaving the valve open. They’re generally more durable than air pads. The last is closed-cell foam pads which are made of dense foam filled with tiny closed air cells. This type works great underneath other types of pads to improve insulation and prevent punctures. If you are on a tight budget, the last type is a great choice.
How do I choose the right sleeping pad?
Let’s start with your intended use because this factor will affect everything. Are you aiming for car camping, backpacking, winter camping, hammock camping, or something else? After that, choose the types of sleeping pads according to your needs. Is it air, self-inflating, or closed-cell foam? Next, and most importantly, the R-value. This point contributes the most to keep you warm. In addition, you also need to know what sleeping gear you combine them with. Correctly pairing your pad and bag in your sleep system is key to staying warm.
How to clean my sleeping pad?
Washing your sleeping pad regularly can prevent unwanted particles such as dust, dirt, or mold from damaging the fabric. First, remember not to use the washing machine. Instead, wipe down the surface after closing the valves. After that, air-dry your pad in a place that is not exposed to direct sunlight.
10 Reviews: Best Sleeping Pads for Car Camping (Mar 2023)

1.Coleman
Self-Inflating Camping Pad with Pillow
With a pillow!
Car camping can be truly exhausting if not accompanied by the right equipment. Coleman Self-Inflating Camping Pad is here to make your trip less stressful. Save your breath for more important activities and allow the free-flow valve to do its job of inflating the pad. Coupled with the polyester shell which is able to hold up night after night, you can focus more on enjoying your camping. Plus, it comes with a pillow!
... I purchased two of these pads & they are very comfortable, & self inflate quickly. You have to manually blow up the pillow part just like you would an inflatable pool raft. These are large when packed up but we mostly car camp. I did take one of these on a wilderness canoe camping trip where I slept on wooden platforms & it worked perfectly & packed just fine in a canoe. These were also a great price.
by AdvRacer
Material | Polyester |
---|---|
Color | Blue |
Type | Self-Inflating |
Weight | 5.03 lbs |
Dimensions | 76 x 25 x 2.5 in |

2.Hyke & Byke
Standard Appalachian
Top-notch material
Next, we come to the sleeping pad by Hyke & Byke which promotes the perfect blend of comfort and weight reduction features. The Standard Appalachian does not only provide a cushioned sleeping surface to keep you comfortable but also offers critical insulation from cold ground temperatures. Not to mention the top-notch material for you to use in the long run.
I was excited that H&B finally launched some new products and had to give this a try. I took it out on an overnight in the woods by my house and it did not disappoint. Feels durable, super cushy, comfy to lay on and I love that button you press to tune the air pressure. Smart too, having a dump valve at the top. Makes rolling it up way easier. And I don't think I've ever seen a pad that came with it's own attached bungee. Pretty cool! ...
by James
Material | 70D Ripstop Nylon |
---|---|
Color | Green |
Type | Air Pad |
Weight | 1 lb 12 oz |
Dimensions | 76 x 24 x 4 in |

3.Therm-a-Rest
Z Lite Sol
Hassle-free pad
What’s great about a classic closed foam sleeping pad is that you don’t have to bother blowing it up and inflating the pad. Besides that, you can get it at a super pocket-friendly price. Therm-a-Rest Z Lite has all of these points and will be the perfect complement to your sleeping system. It captures radiant heat so you can stay warm all night.
We use these under our regular pads to give a little more cushion when car camping and they worked very well.
by K. M. Potere
Material | ThermaCapture |
---|---|
Color | Limon/Silver |
Type | Closed Cell Foam Pad |
Weight | 14 oz |
Dimensions | 72 x 20 in |

4.KLYMIT
Insulated Static V Lite
Supports all sleeping positions
With a 4.4 R-value, Klymit Insulated Static V Sleeping Pad retains your body heat and envelops you with maximum warmth when the temperature starts to dip. What makes it perfect for your car camping is its excellent support no matter how you sleep. Also, this pad excels with its V-chamber design which makes it anti-slip, prevents heat loss, and inhibits air movement. No more interrupted sleep.
comfortable, durable. perfect for car camping and backpacking
by Trudy H.
Material | Polyester |
---|---|
Color | Gold |
Type | Air Pad |
Weight | 19.6 oz |
Dimensions | 72 x 23 x 2.5 in |

5.Lightspeed Outdoors
2 Person PVC-Free Air Bed Mattress
Perfect for couple
The Lightspeed Outdoors Queen-Size Air Mattress will immediately erase the thought that outdoor sleeping just can’t be as comfortable as at home. At 80 inches tall and 55 inches wide, you can rely on this large pad when camping with your lover or family. For your convenience, a battery-operated pump and a roomy storage bag are provided. This product is ready to accompany your adventure right out of the box.
I've been a fan of Lightspeed products when we go car camping and when we need another bed. This works great. You need to use the pump that comes with it to inflate it properly. It doesn't lose air at all!
by Gabriel Ha
Material | Polyester |
---|---|
Color | Aqua, Green |
Type | Air Pad |
Weight | 5.6 lbs |
Dimensions | 80.1 x 7.1 x 55.1 in |

6.REI Co-op
Camp Bed Self-Inflating Sleeping Pad
Perfect for extreme cold
REI Co-op is not a new player in the world of outdoor gear. No wonder its products are often superior with their quality and reliability. This Camp Bed Self-Inflating Sleeping Pad is no exception. Its minimalist but charming design has an R-value of 7.6, making it perfect for extreme cold conditions. With a fairly affordable price, there is no excuse for not having it.
Used it on a hard rocky surface and didn't feel a thing beneath me, even when laying on my side. It also insulates really well from the cold ground and keeps you warm. Solid sleep pad for car or boat-in camping.
by BTran
Material | Polyester |
---|---|
Color | Canyon Ridge |
Type | Self-Inflating |
Weight | 3 lbs 10 oz |
Dimensions | 72 x 25 x 2.5 in |

7.Exped
SynMat HL
Great for side-sleepers
Are you a side-sleeper? If so then you have to put this Exped SynMat HL on your bucket-list. This product will exceed your expectations regarding the comfort you always crave when sleeping outdoors. With a thickness of 7 cm, this mat promotes lightness and super small size when packed which is extremely helpful for campers or backpackers.
Unmatched comfort. Quite light, has insulation, grooves hold sleeping body, isn’t crinkly/noisy, rolls up small and inflates to cushy thickness (inflation bag is simple/brilliant and avoids moisture inside the filling). Worth every penny compared to other sleeping pads (I’ve tried many) if you want to spend. Bought the slightly wider version.
by SKallen
Material | 20D fabric |
---|---|
Color | Orange |
Type | Air Pad |
Weight | 1.05 lbs |
Dimensions | 77.6 in x 25.6 in x 7 cm |

8.REI Co-op
Camp Dreamer XL
Quickly self-inflates
Take your outings to the next level with this quickly self-inflated bed by REI Co-op. You can feel the superior quality and seamless comfort as soon as you touch it. It is quite large at 78 x 32 x 4 inches and weighs 6 lbs 6 oz. Suitable for car camping that has no problem with heavy luggage. The 6.6 R-value always warms you up on chilly nights.
This pad was purchased for my wife to use while car camping. It is comfortable and easy to set up and break down. We are happy with the product and would recommend for anyone looking for super comfortable car camping pad...
by chefriendy
Material | Polyester |
---|---|
Color | Thunder Blue |
Type | Self-Inflating |
Weight | 6 lbs 6 oz |
Dimensions | 78 x 32 x 4 in |

9.Exped
MegaMat Max 15
The thicker, the better
For a better night’s sleep, you would do well to get a thicker sleeping pad like the Exped MegaMat. The long and wide size means you can get plenty of room for sleep, regardless of your sleeping position. Luxurious design with a thickness of 6 inches which can be soft-inflated for maximum body-cradling effect. Despite the jumbo size, MegaMat folds easily into a small as 31 x 11 inches.
I camp alot and have had many sleep pads, cots etc over the years. I wanted ONE GREAT comfy thing to car camp with and decided to splurge on this... Worth every penny!!! SO glad i got it! Its a great size, fits in even my smallest tent, has a good insulating factor and is amazingly comfy. ...
by Anonymous
Material | 50D Nylon |
---|---|
Color | Burgundy |
Type | Self-Inflating |
Weight | 7 lbs 10 oz |
Dimensions | 77.6 x 30.3 x 6 in |

10.REI Co-op
Kingdom Insulated Sleep System 40
Real bed sensation
The last product will rival any hotel bed with a luxurious brown color combination and its Queen size. To quote from REI Co-op, this Kingdom Insulated Sleep System is “proof that sleeping outdoors doesn’t have to mean roughing it.” The bundle includes a quilted mattress cover, a top sheet, a comforter, and a large pump. For almost $ 300, you will get a real bed sensation. When it comes to sleep, make no compromise.
Car Camping is now Glamping. After years of trying to get comfortable on various forms of Therm-a-Rests, I foisted this system on my skeptical husband, and even he reluctantly agrees that it's terrific. It's not any more space than 2 bags and 2 pads, it's quick and easy to inflate with the included pump, and it will keep you warm even below the claimed 40 degrees. Well worth the price tag.
by Karen
Material | Polyester |
---|---|
Color | Black Coffee |
Type | Air Pad |
Weight | 15 lbs 9 oz |
Dimensions | 79 x 56 x 6 in |
Most viewed










Conclusion
A sleeping pad not only provides you warmth but also takes your night rest to the next level. We choose the products above based on quality, durability, and budget. The number of positive reviews from users is also a plus. Hopefully, you can find a product that meets your needs as soon as possible. Thanks for stopping by!