Sleeping pads are an integral component to any survival gear for a couple of reasons. First, they
provide cushioning that promotes a more comfortable and restful sleep out in the field. Second, they
can be used to enhance thermal comfort by either insulating the body from the cold or allowing cool air
to pass through to avoid sweating. Let’s take a look at how to choose the best pads based on these and
other important factors.
Foam or Inflatable
One of the first decisions to make is whether or not to purchase a foam-based
pad or one that inflates. Both have their advantages as well as disadvantages.
With inflatable pads, you can gain some extra space because many can be folded
or rolled very small. You can even use a pool raft as a sleeping pad as a cheaper
and arguably just-as- good alternative to official air pads. Foam pads tend to
be more durable, light-weight and dense. This provides you with less heft while
also giving you a set amount of cushioning. Foam pads are not dependent on
seams and seals like their air-pad counterparts. This eliminates the risk of
getting a flat due to a tear or puncture. However, foam pads are not always
designed to be rolled or packed into tight spaces. Additionally, foam pads may
not be thick enough to support your weight and keep you comfortable. Some pads
are made from individual cells whereas others are simply a long piece of foam.
The one with cells are more conducive to the passage of air which can help to
regulate temperature and moisture. Flat pads may provide basic padding, but
their ability to keep you cool and dry may be limited. Air pads also can be
purchased in a number of different styles that include cell-based molds or the
addition of special, durable material to protect the bottom. Some come with air
pumps whereas others are inflated with breaths. It’s important to consider whether
or not you want a sleeping pad that requires an air pump. Remember that you
will need a source of power as well as extra storage space for the pump. Generally,
a good air-pad will be easy to repair in the field as long as you have the appropriate
patch kit. Air-pads also provide more lift and cushion due to the fact that they
inflate and expand a few inches above the ground. However, one other disadvantage
is that air pads do not retain as much heat as the air cools inside. Therefore, you
may need some additional bedding or padding to cover the pad as you sleep to
keep warm.
Making the Right Choice
There are no right or wrong answers when it comes to what kind of padding to
use. A lot of your decisions will be based on the type of conditions that you will
be using them, how much weight and space you can sacrifice and your personal
preferences. The important thing is that you take the time to think about all of
the factors mentioned above as you shop around. This will help you to make the
best choice according to your needs and preferences. Having the wrong kind of
pad, or not having one at all can make things just as uncomfortable as if you didn’t
have one at all. You don’t want to end up leaving a sub-standard pad behind or
lugging around dead-weight because you bought the wrong one. Consider the
weather, terrain, conditions and other factors that relate to how they will be used
in order to end up with one that gets the job done. The good news is that you
don’t have to sacrifice comfort because both options provide a valuable resource
when you areaway from a comfortable bed. Consider adding them to your survival
gear, but make sure that you find the most appropriate one.