Last Updated on February 20, 2023 by DAVID
Do you think of going camping with a bad back? If yes, then it can be a real challenge. However, you will be unpleasant if you avoid camping trips due to bad back. Choosing the right one could eliminate the back pain when camping. A comfortable camping mattress will help you to sleep in nature peacefully. Similarly, a mattress is playing as a background hero as a sound sleep helps you feel far more refreshed for the next day.
Most Comfortable Camping Mattress Types
There are 3 types of Camping mattresses available in the market and each type has its specialty. Your camping activities may vary due to differences in weather, environment, or travel. Therefore, depending on the variation of your trip, such as motorcycle camping trip, car camping, Back-country Camping, Tent Camping, etc. may require more than one Mattress. Let’s learn about different types of Camping Mattress.
Closed-Foam Camping Mattress
It is used as a basic backpacking mattress because it is lightweight and cheap enough. It is called Closed-Foam because it is a dense foam that is filled with tiny closed air cells. The closed-foam mattress is usually not too thick. So, if you want to go for a campaign on more or less smooth terrain then this type of foam mattress is right for you. If the insulation layer is attached to it, you can also use it at a colder temperature. This type of foam pad or mattress is stiff or firm so it is folded in Z-formation. So, if there is no space issue in your trip, you can use it.
Self-Inflating Camping Mattress
This type of mattress is made with air and open-cell foam. It uses strong fabrics which makes it more durable. This type of mattress uses sealed airtight in a bag and deflated foam. The biggest advantage is that you do not have to use an air pump. How does a self-inflating camping mattress work? It works in three steps consequently Air suction, Valve mechanism, and Foam pad expansion.
The reason it is popular with backpackers and campers is that it is lightweight and takes up little space at the same time.
Air Mattress
It uses advanced technology and exceptional materials such as an integrated bag, integrated pump, and multi-function valve so it can be used for sleeping at night. Before buying this type of mattress, make sure that you have a built-in hand pump facility. If you do not have a built-in hand pump, there is no problem because the pump can be purchased separately. However, when pumping, keep in mind that the pumping should not be too much. Excessive pumping makes it stronger and can cause sore back muscles.
We have done some research on it and found the top 12 best camping mattresses for bad back. Some of the best camping beds for bad backs are given below:
Specialty of each brands (Quick Overview)
- Outdoorsman Lab is perfect for backpackers and hikers for – Ultralight
- Sleepingo Camping Sleeping Pad is TEAR RESISTANT for – RIPSTOP NYLON FABRIC
- Coleman Support Rest helps getting in and out of bed easier with – DOUBLE HIGH
- Coleman Folding Camp Cot and Air Bed is special for – Battery Operated Pump
- WellaX Sleeping Camp Pad is perfect for light sleepers for – silent TPU layer
- Klymit Static V2 is unique for – Body Mapping Technology
- Therm-a-Rest Z Lite is perfect for cold season for – reflective heat technology
- ECOTEK Outdoors Hybern8 is perfect for cold weather for – FlexCell technology
- FRETREE Pad is special for easy & faster inflation for – Foot Press Inflat within 25 seconds
- Gear Doctors is skin-friendly for – hypoallergenic outer coating
- Willpo is trusted for – tested by Certipur-US
- LaidBackPad is temperature friendly for – Cool Flow Technology
1. Outdoorsman Lab Ultralight Sleeping Pad
Outdoorsman lab ultralight sleeping pad is one of the most comfortable camping mattress for camping, backpacking trip, and traveling. You can keep it inside in your backpack after use. Not only manufacturing, but also the innovator of sleeping pad technology that makes it more superior to others. Furthermore, wherever you roam, exclusive designs are engineered to provide you a great night’s sleep. As the camp pad is two inches thick, though interconnected air cells to adjust the shape of your body. You will be given the utmost comfort, warmth, and support as you expected. Similarly, its easy-to-use air valve encourages quick inflation which makes your pad ready in just a few seconds.
Particulars:
- Item Firmness Description: Firm
- Material: 2.2” thick lightweight, flexible, abrasion-resistant nylon
- Water Resistance Level: Water Resistant
- Item Weight: 0.9 Pounds
- Best Design-As an active outdoor enthusiast, it considers the original inventor of this popular design.
- Extremely Comfortable-Due to its optimal thickness of 2.2 inches, you can stay nice down to 40 F temperatures.
- Ultralight & Compact-It is very light. Additionally, it could be included in your storage pack due to its compact size.
- Easy Inflation & Deflation-This camping mat needs only 10-15 breaths for quick inflation. On the other hand, deflation is something that pushing the black rubber piece inside the valve “inside-out” to create a leak.
- The air valve stands on the foot, not on the head.
2. Sleepingo Camping Sleeping Pad for Bad Back
Do you like to travel on rough, hilly, and rocky terrain? Having sleepingo sleeping pad is the best way of doing that. It provides you a beautiful sleep and healing rest during a hike. It is as extra light in weight as highly portable when you are not using it. Likewise, it allows you to conveniently store it in tight spaces. You will be provided a carrying bag with it to keep it safe and dry for the next camping adventure.
Particulars:
- Item Firmness Description: 2″ THICK SLEEP SUPPORT!
- Material: 20D Ripstop tear resistant nylon
- Water Resistance Level: Waterproof
- Item Weight: 0.9 Pounds
- Tear Resistant –Made of tear-resistant 20 denier thickness nylon which is a super-strong waterproof.
- Higher- Quality Material-It has been made with ripstop nylon fabric. It is also waterproof, and strongly-built.
- Easy to travel- It could be folded to the size of a thin water bottle and then keep it in a carrier that comes with it.
- Sit and Sleep warmly- Camping pads are designed with an interconnected hiking air mattress that is adjusted.
- Overweight people require extra support.
3. Coleman Air Mattress for Camping with Bad Back
What is the best air mattress for camping? Coleman Air camping tent mattress is one of the leading camping pad manufacturers in the world for bad back. It offers you a great reinforced construction for improved stability and comfort. Additionally, its puncture guard technology helps you for long-term use and boasts a tough, durable construction. Some exciting features are available in this Coleman air mattress. For instance, it has a built-in 4D pump which allows you to easily inflate your camping bed at a moment’s notice. Then there is Velvet touch offers soft, plush comfort.
Particulars:
- Size: Queen
- Item Firmness Description: Medium
- Material: Polyvinyl Chloride
- Water Resistance Level: Waterproof
- Weight Limit: 650 Pounds
- Item Weight: 1 Kilograms
- Dual-sealed valve- Prevents leaks for all-night firmness.
- A built-in electric pump-Allows for the fastest and fullest inflation and deflation. As it has been attached pump indicates that you don’t need to borrow an extra item.
- A relatively comfortable sleeping surface- Coleman Air Mattress will change your perception because of its velvet touch feelings.
- Materials-Made of a pretty standard material polyvinyl chloride(PVC). It has been lab-tested to make sure it is leak-free.
- Inflation-Takes only 20 minutes to fully inflate the camping mattress whereas the company recommends using a Coleman 120V or rechargeable Coleman air bed pumps.
- Double Height- Extra height gives the impression of a real bed where allows more stability when getting in and out of bed. Correspondingly, extra cushioning offers a greater degree of comfort.
- Wrap ‘N’ Roll – Very easy to storage as just fold, roll and store it in your convenient space.
- May create some noise.
4. Folding Camp Cot and Air Bed
If you want the comfort of your indoor bed to the outside, then folding Camp Cot is the best option. It included a 4D battery pump to the Double Lock™ valve for easy, leak-free inflation. Since its factory-tested to be leak-free, the AirTight system will help to keep the perfect firmness. Again, its ComfortStrong™ coil system offers all-night elevated sleeping support. Again, it has 2 side tables that are attached to this bed. You can keep your additional belongings like the cap, magazine, water bottle, and dry food there. Furthermore, it comes in a sewn-in cover that retains the mattress in place.
Particulars:
- Size: Queen
- Item Firmness Description: Firm
- Weight Limit: 600 Pounds
- Item Weight: 41.9 Pounds
- Combination of Air Mattress and Pump- One of the main benefits of this product is that it comes with an air mattress and pump where other models of camping cot don’t offer.
- Airtight System-Preventing from leaking indicates the mattress will hold its shape for far longer, as well as give you robust support throughout the night.
- ComfortStrong Coil Construction- For superior comfort, it provides better support
- Double Lock Valve- Deflate the bed easily when ready to pack up and folds up into a carry bag for easy storage and transport.
- 3-piece combo-Side tables, air mattress, and battery-operated pump included.
- Battery Operated Pump- Inflation the mattress easily in the outdoors.
- Leak-Proof-Factory tested to ensure air mattress stays firm all night tested by the factory.
- Heavy and bulky design.
5. WELLAX Ultralight Air Sleeping Pad
WELLAX Ultralight Air Sleeping Pad allows the relief your body needs. It also works to keep your body warm. Besides, it insulates you from the cold ground. It comes with both plush thickness and generous size. To keep you warm R-Value is 2.1 with 2.5″ thickness of the pad. It is the most comfortable backpacking mattress you will ever sleep on. Besides, 300 flexing air cells provide a great cushion.
Particulars:
- Material: Nylon
- Water Resistance Level: Water Resistant
- Insulation Resistance: 2.1
- Item Weight: 1.08 Pounds
- Made to last-It’s laminated 20D Rip-stop Nylon and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) are waterproof, resistant. Again, offering a good balance between lightweight and durability. However, the weight ratio and durable bottom layer of fabric, making it more unique.
- Noise-free- It is convenient for light sleepers that tend to shift around throughout the night.
- An incredibly compact-Having single layer of the Pad’s Air Cells is precisely providing you with the most lightweight packed.
- Easy to Inflate and Deflate- Advanced inflation technology contains 2 flat valves such as one for inflation and another one for deflation.
- This camp pad is not effective in winter with a 2.1 R-value.
6. KLYMIT Static V2 Sleeping Pad
If you are looking for any sleeping pad which is comfortable for summer, then KLYMIT Static V2 will be the right choice. It is a lightweight pad. Its V-shaped baffles and dynamic side rails make it unique. Also, its antimicrobial laminate inside of the pad prevents mold, fungus, and bacteria growth. Similarly, its unique design lets sleep in any position without creating pressure points & bad back. However, the twist-pull valve allows for quick inflation and prevents unintentional air loss.
Particulars:
- Size: One Size
- Item Firmness Description: Firm
- Material: Polyester
- Item Weight: 1 Pounds
- Body Mapping Technology-Delivers support and comfort to the people who sleep on their back, stomach, or side.
- Side Rails-Providing a secure, comfortable sleep by centering you on the mattress.
- Deep Weld Patterning-Allows your bag to fully hit for improved thermal relief.
- Versatile-Works in every field like the ground, cot, or hammock.
- Incredibly lightweight- Its packs smaller than a water bottle that easily fits in the palm
- Material/Design-75D polyester material has been used for making the bottom of this sleeping pad whereas the upper fabric is made of 30 D polyester to keep the weight and packability low. Although it is lightweight but puncture resistant.
- Inflation/Twist-Pull System-It could be easily inflated in 10-15 breaths.
- R-value is a mere 1.3, making this camp pad only minimally insulated.
7. Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Camping Sleeping Mattress
Therm-a-Rest Z Lite mattress is the lightest, compact closed-cell foam mattress that ever you have seen. This mattress is an economical and dependable option for sleeping. Not only that, it is manufactured in folding accordion-style which is very compact but easily pack able too. Correspondingly, reflective thermacapture coating technology keeps radiant heat whereas increased warm feelings by 20 percent. It will helpful for your night sleep. Additionally, for having more comfortable, the upper level of the sleeping pad is made of softer foam. At the same time, the bottom level is denser that protects from rocks and dirt. Because of its durability, this sleeping pad is the most trustworthy by the camp users.
Particulars:
- Material: ThermaCapture
- Item Weight: 272 Grams
- Variety Closed Cell: Foam Pad
- The deployment-This mattress would be deployed easily like an accordion. It doesn’t take five minutes to blow up. Again, It can lay flat level.
- The Versatility-Having R-value of 2.6, makes a great three-season pad, at the same time an inflatable pad for a four-season setup.
- All Rounder- Its foam that mostly is attributed to the fact. Comparatively, you don’t need to worry about punctures or water or even out of breath.
- The Durability-This mattress is quite durable in terms of pad breaking, popping or failing.
- The Size-The pad is large compared to other sleeping pads in the market. As a result, not handy for quick deployment.
8. ECOTEK Inflatable Camping Mattress for Bad Back
Do you want any sleeping mattress which is comfortable wherever you are? ECOTEK inflatable sleeping pad is the ultralight and affordable that you can take anywhere on a trip. It includes honeycomb patent-pending FlexCell technology that makes it unique to others. Also, its easy inflation method marks it a lot more comfortable. Not only that, you don’t have to worry about the durability of the sleeping pad as it contains a durable premium 75D woven polyester blend. Similarly, it is free from any form of heat insulation.
Particulars:
- Fur Description: Premium Woven Polyester Blend
- Material: Polyester
- Variety: Air Pad
- Rapid Inflation & Deflation- It has been designed as a one-way valve where air pressure is applied from the outer side, at the same time stops air from escaping.
- 4 Season Comfort-It comes with 2.5 inches of loft and an R-Value of 4.5, affords 4 seasons of warmth and comfort you can count.
- Hammock Approved Versatile Design- Its patent-pending FlexCell honeycomb design offers to any sleeping position as well as hammock camping under the stars.
- Lightweight, Compact, And Ultra Durable- It has only 24.5 ounces in weight which is equivalent to the size of a 1litre water bottle. Furthermore, this is a space-saving sleeping pad. Similarly, it is made of a premium 75D polyester blend instead of nylon plastic.
- No thermal insulating is available.
9. FRETREE Camping Air Sleeping Pad
Do you struggle while sleeping in the wilderness? That’s why choosing the right sleeping pad would be the best solution. In that way, FRETREE Camping Air Sleeping Pad provides the most comfortable and portable sleeping experience. It is equipping with the latest, top-notch materials and design, which make it super light and keep warmth as well. Moreover, while providing a snuggling experience, it’s an innovative diamond and sided square air cell design to distribute the pressure evenly. Your problem will be solved regarding all worries about not sleeping well. So, be relaxed and feel like snuggling into nature’s arm!
Particulars:
- Material: Nylon
- Water Resistance Level: Waterproof
- Variety: Air Pad
- Super Fast Inflation/Deflation-It has been designed in such a way that just press the built-in pump with a foot for 25 seconds and the inflation process will proceed on.
- Puncture-Resistant and Waterproof-Built with 0.14mm extra thick and non-toxic 40D nylon that prevents any leak. Besides, this mat is tear-resistant, puncture-proof, and damp – proof. It is suitable to lay under your hammock, or any floor or hard surface.
- Compact, Lightweight & Portable-Having this lightest sleeping pad, you don’t need any additional pillow as it has been made in that format. Of course, it could be packed it down to the size of a water bottle.
- Sit and Sleep Anywhere You Love-The sleeping pad is raised 2.7″ tall above the ground after inflated. Nonetheless, it protects you from cold earth and stones and giving you a warm feeling.
- Unfortunately, the pillow chamber is an awkward size that could be uncomfortable.
10. Gear Doctors Self Inflating Sleeping Pad
Gear Doctors Self Inflating Sleeping Pad is one of the best options for camping mattress. In this case, you don’t need to waste your time by breath pumping. It’s a self-inflating pad known from its name. Since, it is maintaining a 4.3 R-value, indicates reserves more heat in a cooler place. This feature attracts more users. Besides this, the fabrics of this camping bed are highly durable. Not only is that it’s water and UV resistant too.
Particulars:
- Item Firmness Description: Firm
- Item Weight: 2.2 Pounds
- Higher R-Value-Indicates measurement of the thermal resistance of a material or how well it resists the transfer of heat. Since it has a 4.3 R-value that is very well insulated.
- Easy Setup and Takedown-The process of Inflating and deflating are as easy as saying 1-2-3. You just twist the pad’s leak-proof valve, then unroll the pad, air starts automatically filling up the pad’s open-cell foam, and enjoy firm shape for days.
- Tough Non-Allergenic Outer Shell-Made of Skin-Friendly Hypoallergenic Outer Coat so that you can pass the night itching free. Besides this, 75D Micro Coated Green Polyester has been used to make it.
- Longer Air Retention-Comes with premium non-leak valve. Therefore, no need to worry about jagged rocks, uneven ground, or air leaks during the night.
- Super Intuitive Repair Kit- a “Repair kit” is included in case of an emergency as a camping gear.
- Bulky pad of foam filling.
11. Willpo Certipur-US Memory Foam Camping Mattress
If you want to get great resilience while sleeping at night after hiking on rocky terrain all day, Willpo Certipur-US Memory Foam Camping Mattress can be a perfect choice. It will give you constant support and wrapping feelings which can give annoying free service in case of your back pain.
It has a water-resistance zipper to protect from rain or humid weather. In addition, the black non-slip bottom feature has been added so that the mattress does not move. As it is tested by Certipur-US, you can be sure of its safety. It has a built-in roll assistor and roll-up straps to easily carry to the campsite.
Particulars:
- Fabric Type: Super Comfortable Velboa
- Material: 1/3Memory Foam + 2/3High-Density Supportive Foam
- Water Resistance Level: Waterproof
- Item Weight: 7.7 Pounds
- Easy to roll and pack
- Designed with damp-proof bottom sheet
- Tested by Certipur-US
- Removable waterproof sheet
- Storage Bag should be improved
- Difficult to roll back up
12. LaidBackPad Memory Foam Camping Sleeping Pad
If you are thinking of comfortable sleep, the adjust-ability of mattresses with body temperature is an important factor. This sleeping pad uses Cool Flow Technology for body temperature control. It is quite durable because it uses low-voc memory foam. If you are looking for a mattress to accommodate a few people together, you can connect multiple mattresses of the same model using its built-in connectors.
Particulars:
- Material: Polyester, Memory Foam
- Item Weight: 8.5 Pounds
- Cool Flow Technology for temperature control
- Size extension feature
- Water resistant and machine washable
- Not suitable for multi-day hiking and backpacking
Check out: Air mattress bulge on one side
Consideration before Purchasing the most comfortable Camping mattress bed:
• Material
Polyester and nylon are the two most widely used materials that you will find in camping tent mattresses. For instance, Nylon offers more durability whereas polyester is waterproof. Also, it is a great option for campers who bring children with them. Both of them are washable and easy to clean. On the other hand, cotton fabrics should be avoidable as it holds dirt. Correspondingly, should be checked properly whether the stitching is straight and double or even not too close to the edge.
• Mattress Capacity
It is expected that you will not go alone to the camping. Some mattresses are designed to carry the heavyweight. Among all the available camping mattresses, some are made for children, some are for women, and some are for normal-sized men or even some for large-sized. So, you should buy according to your gender, weight, and size.
• Inflation and Deflation
Inflation and deflation are the two factors that play a vital role during camping. How effectively play their role is the most concerning area. For instance, after a long journey, if it takes two hours to blow up a mattress then you will lose your patience level. This will leave you an unsatisfactory sleep. In short, a self-inflating mattress can unload your burden. Some air mattress comes with pumps that reduce the time of inflating. On the other hand, deflation is much quicker than useful inflation if you are running late evening the composite.
• Water Proof Technology
Sometimes rough weather could mess up the camping sites. A leaked tent floor will allow water to soak up the accessories. This scenario would be much worse when sleeping on a wet mattress. For this reason, a mattress should fully equip with waterproof qualities. Moreover, it offers more comfortable and quite appealing too.
• Shape and Size
Varieties’ shapes of mattresses are offering by many companies such as V-shape or diamond shape and so on. These could be varied for men, women, and children. At the same time, double-height air mattresses will offer you more flexibility like your home bed. However, a battery-powered pump would be helpful in case of inflating.
Benefits of Camping Air Mattress:
1. Convenient usage:
For new campers or even children know how to use an air mattress as well as know-how to inflate and deflate it as needed. Most of the air mattresses are made of smooth vinyl material. That is why it is easy and clean.
2. Space free storage:
Storing the air mattress is not a big deal. You have to roll the camping bed from end to end and put it on the bag. Just as simple as that.
3. Lightweight:
A camping air mattress is very light. An air bed with a manual pump would be two or three kg approximately. However, it would be varied for folding camp bed.
4. Huge sleeping space
Air mattress comes in different sizes according to our needs and sizes of the tent. Moreover, you have an option from single, twin, double, or queen sizes.
5. Ideal capacity:
The quality of the joints, valves, and material will determine the capacity of the air mattress.
6. Comfortable as your traditional bed:
It is as comfortable as your traditional own bed since you are far from the ground and you will not feel the hard surface in your back.
7. Easy Maintenance
Maintaining an air bed is very easy. You need to wash it once and keep it properly. While camping, you can leave it inflated and deflate it when you are ready to go.
How Can I Make My Camp Mattress More Comfortable?
The best way to make a camp bed more comfortable is by using a camping mattress. You can also use a sleeping bag to make your camp bed more comfortable.
If you’re like most people, you probably don’t spend a lot of time thinking about your camp bed. But if you’re not comfortable when you’re sleeping, it can ruin your whole camping experience. Here are a few things you can do to make your camp bed more comfortable:
- Use a foam pad or an air mattress. These will add some cushioning and make it easier to sleep on your side or stomach.
- Bring along a pillow. It doesn’t have to be anything fancy, but having something to rest your head on will make a world of difference.
- Make sure your sleeping bag is the right size and temperature rating for the conditions you’ll be sleeping in. If it’s too big or too warm, you’ll just end up tossing and turning all night long.
Frequently Asked Question:
1. Why Does My Back Hurt After Camping?
After camping, if you feel pain in your back in the morning, the first thing that should come to your mind that the sleeping uneven surface is not providing the best comfort. It is not supported too. Furthermore, packing the wrong camping sleeping beds is another reason. However, sleeping on the floor could mark back hurt were choosing the cheapest model will further aggravate your back hurt.
2. What type of camping mattress is best for someone with a bad back?
A medium-firm memory foam camping mattress is the right choice for someone with a bad back. This memory foam mattress has been designed for common sleep problems in mind. Its relief layers follow your body relieving pressure points. The layers offer firm supports to your spine. Reviewers are also supported with this type of mattress. If you face problem with memory foam mattress not returning to its shape, you can try these techniques for expanding memory foam mattress faster.
3. How do you camp with a bad back?
Tips for Camping with Bad Back:
Sleep on a Softer Surface: Sleeping on a softer surface might help you to accomplish your camping. That’s why; you need a memory foam mat or an air mattress to sleep on.
Warm-up before Starting Your Activities: You have to warm-up and stretch before fun activities like walking, hiking, kayaking, and so on. Moving muscle will increase your blood circulation.
Invest in Supportive Footwear: Investing in a supportive pair of hiking shoes or sneakers will help you with camping. Additionally, light packing, taking intervals, stay hydrated, all these activities should be noted while camping.
4. Is a hard camping mattress better for a bad back?
Most people think that a hard mattress is better for a bad back where equally distributes the weight of the body. But it is not the concrete answer. Rather, a medium-firm density-based camping mattress could be the solution as not too soft and not too firm. Nevertheless, people who have back pain should continuously check and balance the desired position of the mattress.
Camping with lower back pain can be a dangerous experience. It turns into a miserable condition if you need to sleep on the floor or even an uncomfortable sleeping surface. It should not go this way. While camping, the only option to avoid lower back pain is to buy the best camp bed for a bad back. There is no alternative regarding this.
5. How do you sleep camping with a bad back?
Hard or uneven sleeping surfaces are not perfect for camping with back problems. So, if you are camping with a bad back, try sleeping on an easy to inflate air mattress, memory foam back support sleeping mat or a camping cot.
It’s our pleasure that you don’t have to wait for a long time through any online stores for the appropriate camping beds for back pain. You can choose the most suitable camp bed from the top 12 best camping mattresses for a bad back. I hope it will help you as a guideline.
Have good camping!
You may read:
Benefits of Side Sleeping In Zero Gravity Position
What Makes Marriott Beds So Comfortable?
Why Is My Memory Foam Mattress So Hard?
How to Set an Adjustable Bed to Zero Gravity?
What are the Side Effects of Spring Mattress?
Are Pillow Top Mattresses Good For Side Sleepers?
Is Nectar Mattress Good For Back Sleepers?
What are the Benefits of a Latex Mattress?
David is a Certified Sleep Science Coach who analyzes sleep products and appears. He completed his master’s degree in journalism Industry from University of Hawai’i. He wants to make sure good night’s sleep for all.