How To Choose The Best Sleeping Mat

When you are camping, comfort is incredibly important. Without a good night of sleep, you will wake up sluggish, tired and irritable - which is not what you want when you have a long drive or hike ahead of you. The only remedy is a good night's rest, which is where sleeping mats stand out. If you are not sure which sleeping mat is best for you, read our guide which takes you through the benefits of sleeping mats, hiking mats and 4WD mats and how to choose the best one for your needs!

Quick Links:

• Are Sleeping Mats Worth It?
• When Should You Use A Sleeping Mat?
• Types Of Sleeping Mats
• What To Look For In A Sleeping Mat
• Recommended Camping Sleeping Mats
• How To Elevate Your Sleeping Mat

Are Sleeping Mats Worth It?

A sleeping mat is definitely a good addition to your camping bedding or 4WD sleeping setup. Sleeping mats pack down small, are easy to set up, and ensure you'll get a restful sleep and wake up revived and ready to take on the day. Plus, they provide a layer of insulation under your bedding to keep you cooler overnight. And with a huge range of sleeping mats available at Anaconda, you'll find the one that's perfect for your budget and needs easily.

When Should You Use A Sleeping Mat?

Camping And Hiking Trips

A sleeping mat is a must-have when you're camping or on an overnight hiking trip. After a big day of outdoor activity, getting a good sleep can be the difference between having an enjoyable adventure or coming home stiff and sore. A compact, lightweight sleeping mat will help you enjoy a comfortable overnight rest.

4WD Trips

Whatever type of 4WD bed setup you have, a sleeping mat will add extra comfort. Whether you're sleeping in a roof top tent, an in-car bed, or a camping tent, you can choose a sleeping mat that fits your space and offers the cushioning you need to ensure a relaxing sleep.

Types Of Sleeping Mats

Foam Sleeping Mats

Foam sleeping mats set up and pack away quickly, and you never need to worry about getting a puncture! They're light to carry, great for supporting your body as you sleep, and compress down for compact storage.

Self-Inflating Sleeping Mats

Setup couldn't be simpler than with a self-inflating sleeping mat. You just open the valve, wait for the sleeping mat to fill with air, and then close the valve. It's a hassle-free way to get a comfy night's sleep.

Blow-Up Mats

A blow-up sleeping mat or air bed is a great way to give yourself maximum comfort when you're camping, hiking or 4WDing. You can use a manual or powered air pump to inflate it in minutes, and when you're done just let the air out and pack it away.

How To Choose The Best Camping Sleeping Mat

There are many factors to consider that will reflect in your decision-making process. For example, if you don't want to spend most of your camping trip stuck beside an air pump, then choosing a self-inflating mat will be a smarter choice.

What To Look For In A Sleeping Mat - FAQs

What Size Mat Should I Choose?

Before selecting your chosen air mattress, make sure that the size suits your needs, such as how many people will be sleeping on the 4WD mat.

How Thick Should A Sleeping Mat Be?

Comfort is another obvious consideration that will need to be factored. This means looking at the thickness of the air mattress - typically, around 10cm thick is a good size.

How Much Warmth And Insulation Do I Need?

Sleeping mats help you stay warm by separating you from the ground of whatever surface you're sleeping on, so generally the thicker your sleeping mat, the warmer it will keep you.

Are 4WD Mats and Sleeping Mats Durable?

As camping can take its toll on camping gear, durability is another important factor to consider. This is why most of our sleeping mats are made from durable materials such as Flock PVC Fabric to ensure that they will last for many years, no matter where you camp.

Recommended Camping Sleeping Mats

Looking for the right sleeping mat for your adventure? Check out our recommended products below:

Dune 4WD Mat: Compact, Versatile and Cushioning Comfort

The Dune 4WD Mat is a great solution for your sleeping needs. Available in various sizes including single, double and queen, the Dune 4WD mat is versatile and easy to use.

Features you'll love include:

• Heavy duty PVC
• 10 cm thick high density cell foam mattress
• Velour top added comfort self-inflating valves
• Tough 600D polyester carry bag
• Repair kit included

Mountain Designs Airlite Pump 6.5 Sleeping Mat: Lightweight Packable Comfort

Experience lightweight, packable comfort with the Mountain Designs Airlite Pump 6.5 Sleeping Mat. The advanced diamond baffling system and 6.5cm of air fill offer excellent comfort and support wherever your hike takes you!

Features you'll love include:

• Durable construction
• Insulation - Air 6.5cm Thickness
• High Flow Valve
• R-Value: 1.7
• Traditional Rectangular Shape
• Packable
• Stuff Sack Included
• Repair Kit Included

Spinifex Single Tri-Fold Foam Bed Single: Value and Comfort

For your getaway, the Spinifex Single Tri-Fold Foam Bed is the best value option for efficiency and a good night's sleep. The thick foam with a soft polyester cover makes for the ultimate comfortable bed during your weekend getaways and camping trips.

Features you'll love:

• Thick foam for ultra-comfort
• Soft polyester cover
• Folds up for easy storage and carry bag included
• Pack away in seconds

How to Elevate Your Sleeping Mat

Grab some must have accessories to elevate your sleeping mat and make it more comfortable and convenient.

• The Dune 4WD Fitted Sheet is a must have for a hygienic and fresh sleeping experience
• Add some camping pillows for a comfy night's sleep, choose inflatable camping pillows or foam pillows that are best for your sleep preferences.
• Don't forget a camping quilt or sleeping bag to stay cosy and warm whilst camping.

Find The Best Sleeping Mat For Your Needs At Anaconda Today

No matter what kind of camper you are, getting a comfortable night's sleep is at the top of the list for things you need to enjoy your outdoor experience. Having the right sleeping mat for your bed setup can make all the difference.

Whether it's a foam sleeping mat, a self-inflating sleeping mat or a blow-up sleeping mat, you'll find exactly what you're looking for - plus all your other camping sleep supplies like tents, sleeping bags, camping beds and more - at Anaconda.

Shop 4WD Mats

Shop Hiking Mats

For more advice and tips on making the most of your sleeping mat, check out our helpful articles:

• What Mattress To Use In A Roof Top Tent
• How To Use & Repair A 4WD Self-Inflating Mattress
• How To Repair An Air Mattress or Airbed

Find your local Anaconda store and check out our extensive range of sleeping mats at low prices for your next outdoor adventure!