A sleeping pad is an essential part of any scout’s gear. It provides insulation from the ground and cushioning for a better night’s sleep. Choosing the right pad is just as important as selecting a good sleeping bag. This page offers advice on how to select a sleeping pad.
Considerations
Insulation (R-Value) – The R-value measures how well a pad resists heat loss to the ground. The higher the number, the warmer it will be. For spring/summer/fall use, an R-value of 2–4 is generally sufficient. For winter camping, look for a pad rated at R-5 or higher. Remember: your sleeping bag insulates you from the air, but your pad insulates you from the cold ground — both are necessary for staying warm.
Type of Pad – Sleeping pads come in three main types:
- Closed-cell foam – Lightweight, durable, inexpensive, and doesn’t pop. Great for beginners and scouts. Less comfortable than inflatable pads.
- Self-inflating – Made of open-cell foam inside an air-tight shell. Offers a good balance of comfort, warmth, and packability.
- Air pads – Inflatable and often very lightweight and compact. Some have built-in insulation or reflective materials to improve warmth. Requires more care to avoid punctures.
Size and Weight – For car camping, weight and size aren’t critical. For backpacking, aim for a pad that weighs under 1.5 pounds and packs down small enough to fit in or on your backpack. Consider using straps or a pad sleeve to keep it secure during transport.
Comfort – Comfort depends on your personal preference and sleeping position. Thicker pads offer more cushioning, especially for side sleepers. If you’re new to camping, it’s a good idea to try a few pads in person to see what feels best.
Durability – Closed-cell foam is the most durable, followed by self-inflating pads. Air pads can be punctured more easily but can often be repaired with a patch kit. Always bring a small repair kit when using an inflatable pad on backpacking trips.
Options
Just like sleeping bags, there’s no one-size-fits-all pad. The best pad depends on the type of trip and the conditions. Here are some options to consider:
General 3-Season Pad – Look for an R-value around 3–4, a weight under 1.5 pounds, and good packability. Ideal for backpacking and car camping in spring, summer, and fall. Examples:
- Therm-a-Rest Trail Scout (self-inflating)
- NEMO Switchback (closed-cell foam)
- REI Flash Insulated Air Pad
- Klymit Static V Insulated
Winter Pad Setup – For cold weather, you’ll need an R-value of 5 or more. Many campers use two pads: a closed-cell foam pad underneath and an insulated air pad on top. This combo provides excellent insulation and a backup in case the air pad fails. Examples:
- Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm
- Big Agnes Insulated Q-Core Deluxe + foam pad
Where to Buy – Local
REI – www.rei.com
Eastern Mountain Sports – www.ems.com
LL Bean – www.llbean.com
Where to Buy – Online
Sierra Trading Post – www.sierra.com
Campmor – www.campmor.com
Hiker Direct (Alps Mountaineering discounts for scouts) – www.hikerdirect.com