Hiking Mattress: Inflatable, Self-Inflating & Foam

Explore our complete range of mattresses for hiking, trekking, bushcraft, or bikepacking and find the one that will perfectly suit your next adventure.

The importance of a mattress in hiking

In hiking or bikepacking, quality sleep is crucial to recharge your batteries and prepare for the next day. A hiking mattress has two benefits: the first, and most obvious, concerns comfort. Sleeping directly on the ground is not pleasant and does not allow for restorative sleep. The second concerns insulation against the cold. Less known, it is just as - if not more - important than the first advantage. Indeed, the cold comes from the ground and not from the air. When you sleep lying down, you compress the part of the sleeping bag between the ground and your back. The mattress then acts as a barrier between your body and the ground.
For this, there is an indicator called the R-Value. It is a standard measure that gauges the thermal insulation of a mattress. The higher it is, the more insulated you will be. For summer bivouacs, an R-Value between 2 and 3 is sufficient. For winter, it is recommended to have a mattress with an R-Value above 4. Finally, for polar expeditions, an R-Value around 8 will not be too much.

Inflatable mattress: the compact and lightweight option

If lightness and compactness are essential criteria for you, then an inflatable mattress will be perfect. These models are designed for hikers or bikepackers who want to minimize the weight of their equipment without sacrificing comfort. Renowned brands like Thermarest, NEMO Equipment, and Sea to Summit offer ultra-light mattresses that inflate easily and provide ergonomic support. Easy to store, they take up minimal space in your backpack, allowing you to add other essential equipment.

Self-inflating mattress: the robust and comfortable option

For those looking for a compromise between comfort, durability, and ease of use, the self-inflating mattress is ideal. Thanks to its internal alveolar foam, it partially inflates itself as soon as the valve is opened. This model ensures effective thermal insulation. Thermarest's self-inflating mattresses are particularly appreciated by hikers and bivouac enthusiasts because they combine comfort and ease of use.

Foam mattress: for small budgets or as a complement

Foam mattresses remain an affordable solution for those looking for a reliable and robust mattress. They are perfectly suited for bushcraft and hiking enthusiasts or as a backup solution in addition to an inflatable mattress. If your inflatable mattress has a slightly low R-Value for winter, then it might be interesting to take an additional foam mattress. Foam mattresses are lightweight and versatile, making them perfect for use in all circumstances. Their durability makes them an economical solution for budget-conscious adventurers.

How to choose the ideal mattress for your use?

The choice of the perfect mattress depends on your main activity and specific needs. If you are a hiker or engage in an activity where weight is important, then the inflatable mattress is the option to prioritize. For those who do not want to bother inflating their mattress or fear it deflating in the middle of the night, then self-inflating and foam mattresses can be an option to consider. For more information, check out our guide to choosing the right hiking mattress.

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