The best ultralight sleeping pads fit into a hiking backpack without sacrificing comfort, but whether you should invest in an advanced self-inflating pad or opt for a closed-cell foam pad depends largely on where you intend to hike. To help you make a choice, we have selected the five best ultralight sleeping pads to narrow down your options and get you sleeping in peace on your next epic ultralight backpacking adventure.

For a complete analysis of all backpacking sleeping pads, check out the buyer’s guide Best Backpacking Sleeping Pads.

Reviews - Best Ultralight Sleeping Pads

Therm-a-Rest NeoAir UberLite

Specs

• Type: Air Pad
• Weight: 0 lbs 09 oz
• R Value: 2.3
• Thickness: 2.5 in
• Volume: 01.2 L

Features

• Pad thickness: 2.5 in
• Sleeping Pad Shape: Mummy
• hrinks down to the size of a large water bottle for a minimal impact on your pack space

BEST ULTRALIGHT SLEEPING PAD

The Therm-a-Rest NeoAir UberLite is an ultralight backpacking pad that is great for fast and light missions. It’s a favorite among long-distance hikers who camp mostly in summer conditions. 

What we love the most about this sleeping pad is how small and light it is while still being long and wide enough. It weighs next to nothing and rolls up to the size of a beer can. It’s Therm-a-Rest’s lightest pad yet, the runner up is the XLite which weighs 3.2 ounces more. All of this does come at a cost, it is one of the most expensive pads on this list, but it is worth the price if weight and packability are your highest priorities.  

The biggest downside of the NeoAir UberLite is the fabric is uber thin which means you need to be extra careful with it. Also, it’s not as warm as other ultralight pads out there. If the warmth and durability of this pad are a big issue for you, take a look at the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir X-Therm.  Another complaint is it makes a loud crinkly noise every time you move. 

The Therm-a-Rest NeoAir UberLite is available in two sizes: Regular and Long. 

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Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm

Specs

• Type: Air Pad
• Weight: 0 lbs 15 oz
• R Value: 6.9
• Thickness: 2.5 in
• Volume: 02.3 L

Features

• Pad Thickness: 2.5 in
• Sleeping Pad Shape: Semi-rectangular
• Patent-pending Reflective Layer Returns Heat Back To Your Body

BEST BACKPACKING SLEEPING PAD FOR COLD WEATHER

With an R-value of 5.7, the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm sleeping pad is one of the warmest one on this list. Contrary to what you’d expect, it is also very light, weighing an impressive 15 ounces. Usually, warm sleeping pads and bags are also relatively heavy, but not in this case. The lightweight of this toasty pad is made possible by an innovative, patent-pending layer that doesn’t add any weight but works to reflect your body heat and store it in air pockets for ultimate warmth.

As for packing, you can compress this pad to the volume of a 1-liter water bottle. Thus, it will not take up much of your backpack’s precious space. The XTherm has a tapered design that further optimizes warmth and weight. Of course, the price you have to pay is more than most other pads on this list, but you do get your money’s worth.

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Nemo Tensor Insulated

Specs

• Type: Air Pad
• Weight: 0 lbs 15 oz
• R Value: 3.5
• Thickness: 3.0 in
• Volume: 01.2 L

Features

• Pad Thickness: 3 in
• Sleeping Pad Shape: Rectangular
• Metalized Film Provides Extra Insulation, Resisting Cold From The Ground

BEST BACKPACKING SLEEPING PAD OVERALL

If you are looking for a lightweight sleeping pad with lots of updates and ergonomic features, then the NEMO Tensor Insulated Sleeping Pad might be a good choice. Within its thoughtful design, there is a point-deflection system that makes up a stable surface and prevents your elbows, hips, and knees from sinking in and touching the cold ground. The Tensor is also very warm, using 2-layer metalized film to effectively reflect your heat to battle temperatures as low as 10°F. Weighing in at only one and a half pounds with a negligible packed size, this pad is ideal for ultralight backpackers looking to shed weight and increase comfort and warmth on the trail.

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Klymit V Ultralite SL

Specs

• Type: Air Pad
• Weight: 0 lbs 12 oz
• R Value: 1.3
• Thickness: 2.5 in

Features

• Pad Thickness: 2.5 in
• Sleeping Pad Shape: Rectangular
• Twist-Pull Valve For Rapid Inflation
• Repair Kit Included

A wide and comfy sleeping pad, the Klymit V Ultralight sleeping pad will allow no interruptions to your well deserved shut-eye. Featuring a V-shaped design that keeps you from rolling off the mattress and individual air pockets that provide both softness and stability, you won’t have to toss and turn to find the most comfortable sleeping position.

The twist-pull valve makes the inflation process fast (only 7 breaths), and the deflation almost instant, thanks to the wide valve opening. The Klymit V Ultralight is not as well insulated as more expensive sleeping pads, but it will undoubtedly make you want to snooze through your alarm if you are hiking in the summer months.

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Nemo Switchback

Specs

• Type: Foam
• Weight: 0 lbs 14 oz
• R Value: 2.0
• Thickness: 0.9 in
• Volume: 09.0 L

Features

• Pad Thickness: 0.9 in
• Sleeping Pad Shape: Rectangular
• Metalized Thermal Reflective Film Reflects Heat Back To Your Body

BEST FOAM SLEEPING PAD

With an efficient hexagonal pattern, the affordable NEMO Switchback sleeping pad is a durable and packable choice. Its unique design allows for wider and taller nodes (the raised areas on the surface of the pad), meaning that you get a plushier feel without compromising size. For even more warmth, this sleeping pad has a metalized film that reflects your heat to your body. The NEMO Switchback is made up of dual-density foam that is resistant to abrasions and a tough lower layer, making it super durable and long-lasting. 

If you want to pack light, you can use this pad on its own. It weighs 14 ounces and, with a thickness of only 0.9 inches, it’s super portable. You can also layer it with another pad for extra insulation during extra cold weather trips. And if the environment matters to you as much as your outdoor experiences, you’ll love the fact that the Switchback is fully recyclable.

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Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol

Specs

• Type: Foam
• Weight: 0 lbs 14 oz
• R Value: 2.0
• Thickness: 0.7 in

Features

• Pad Thickness: 0.75 in
• Sleeping Pad Shape: Rectangular
• Egg-Carton Closed-Cell Foam Pattern For Increased Softness
• No Inflation Required - Instant Setup

The Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol is a closed-cell foam sleeping pad that can be compressed into a lightweight and compact shape. The Z Lite Sol also features a higher than average R-Value (the measurement used to establish the degree of insulation of different foams) making it one of the warmest ultralight sleeping pads on our list.

With a reflective surface, the Z Lite Sol will maintain your body heat during cold nights in the outdoors, while leaving enough space in your backpack to carry all the other essentials.

While closed-cell foam pads tend to be less comfortable than air or self-inflating pads, the egg-carton pattern of the Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol creates a soft and insulated surface that is impressively pleasant, considering the price range. On top of being durable, this sleeping pad unfolds instantly, so you can get ready for bed in a matter of minutes (or even seconds).

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Therm-a-Rest ProLite Plus

Specs

• Type: Self-Inflating
• Weight: 1 lbs 07 oz
• R Value: 3.2
• Thickness: 1.5 in

Features

• Pad Thickness: 1 in
• Sleeping Pad Shape: Semi-rectangular
• Insulated
• Dense Foam To Reduce Heat Loss
• Stuff Sack Included

While self-inflating sleeping pads are generally bulky and inconvenient to carry in a backpack, the 3-season Therm-a-Rest ProLite Plus is designed with the alpine climber in mind. Thanks to the tapered shape, the weight remains minimal and the packing size, while larger than other sleeping pads listed here, is easily manageable.

Compared to air pads, this self-inflating mattress is much sturdier and likely to last longer. Plus with an R-value of 3.2, it is suitable to be used in colder environments. The self-inflating process will take about 10 minutes, so be patient before you hit the sack.

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THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING AN ULTRALIGHT SLEEPING PAD

SLEEPING PAD TYPE

There are three different types of sleeping pads on the market: air pads, self-inflating pads, and closed-cell foam pads.

Air pads, as the name suggests, are mattresses that need to be inflated with the breath or a small pump. These sleeping pads provide a great balance between comfort and minimal weight, however, they are prone to puncturing or ripping.

Self-inflating pads tend to be sturdier and more durable than air pads. They offer better insulation and they have a built-in valve that allows the air in, inflating automatically. The downside of self-inflating pads is that they are usually bulkier and heavier because of the foam layer contained in them.

Closed-cell foam pads are simple camping pads made by one single layer of dense, patterned foam, which usually folds like an accordion. They are cheap, lightweight and extremely durable, but not as comfortable as air and self-inflating pads.

INSULATION (R-VALUE)

The R-value of a sleeping pad measures the capacity to hold the heat of the mattress. In other words, its level of insulation. The R-value ranges from 1 (minimal insulation for warm-weather camping) to 11 (maximum insulation for cold-weather camping). Most sleeping pads are used under the sleeping bag. But there are also models that fit inside your bag (like the Klymit Inertia X Frame Recon), allowing for even less heat to escape.

SLEEPING PAD LENGTH

Sleeping pads can be short, regular or long. Short pads (usually 47 – 48 inches in length) have a smaller packing size and weigh less. However, they only fit 3/4 of your body leaving your legs exposed. Legs don’t need as much insulation as the rest of the body does. Therefore, a short sleeping pad is worth considering if you are hiking in 3-season conditions. Regular and long pads typically measure 72 and 78 inches, respectively. These are more suitable to winter hikes as they will insulate your entire body.

SLEEPING PAD SHAPE

Rectangular, semi-rectangular or mummy shaped? When choosing a pad shape you should consider your sleeping habits, as while it is true that tapered pads occupy less space when packed, they are also not ideal for someone who tends to move during the night.

Rectangular and semi-rectangular sleeping pads offer more space for your legs, so you are less likely to roll on the ground as you dream of the next peak you’ll conquer.

INFLATION

Most brands that sell air pads provide information on how many breaths are necessary to inflate sleeping pads fully. Ultralight air pads typically inflate with 6 to 8 breaths, but some have a built-in hand pump that will save you some oxygen at the end of a long hiking day.

As the name suggests, self-inflating pads inflate automatically once the valve is opened. The inflation process takes about 10 minutes. Self-inflating pads should be stored hanging and semi-inflated with the valve open.

COST

Sleeping pads can cost as little as $20 and go up into the hundreds for more technologically advanced models. Closed-cell foam pads tend to be the cheapest but least comfortable, while air and self-inflating pads are more expensive but also softer and more insulated.

FEATURES EXPLAINED

R-VALUE

The level of insulation of the sleeping pad, going from 1 (minimal insulation) to 11 (maximum insulation).

CLOSED-CELL FOAM

Closed-cell foam is a dense and durable type of polyurethane foam, more resistant to heat loss than open-cell foam because of its capacity to screen out moisture and air. Polyurethane is a plastic material commonly used to build insulation panels in houses.

AIR PAD

A sleeping pad that needs to be inflated by breathing into it or with a pump.

SELF-INFLATING PAD

A sleeping pad that inflates automatically once the valve is open, usually built with an embedded layer of foam to provide extra comfort.

TWIST-PULL VALVE

A valve that requires two separate movements to proceed with inflation or deflation. In order to inflate the mattress is it necessary to twist the valve to the right, then pull it up to allow the air to flow in. With this system, an accidental twisting of the valve does not cause the pad to deflate.

GRID-SHAPED DESIGN

A minimalist sleeping pad design in which all material in excess is removed to leave only a basic frame that provides support at key pressure points. Because of the empty spaces in the mattress, a grid-shaped sleeping pad can be extremely lightweight and compact.

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Here at The Adventure Junkies, we understand the minimalist’s dilemma: How do you balance gear-weight -loss with the human need for a bit of comfort on the trail? Turns out, it’s easier than you might think.

There are a lot of gear out there designed specifically for ultralight backpackers, and replacing just a few big items will help you slim down quickly. We’ve put together this gear list to help you decide what to keep and what to replace, and whether to pack it in or leave it behind.

HOW TO USE THIS PACKING LIST

Before we discover the essentials of packing for an ultralight backpacking adventure, here’s a run down on how to get the most out of this list. Next to each item you will see a few categories. Here’s what they mean.

PURPOSE: What the gear is designed for, and why you would consider taking it with you.

ESSENTIAL ITEM: It’s difficult to know if you’re going to need something, so sometimes you end up throwing in everything. This is the opposite of what ultralight backpacking is about.

In this world, every ounce of weight must prove itself worthy. We’ve whittled it all down to what we consider to be the bare essentials, but these will always vary according to where you’re going, and when.

PRICE RANGE: While ultralight gear is typically pricier than standard backpacking equipment, that doesn’t mean you have to spend a fortune to lighten your load. Note that all price ranges are listed in US dollars.

LOOK FOR: Some quick tips on how to choose the best gear.

OUR PICK: Our choice based on the value and quality of the item.

LEARN MORE: A full article on how to choose that particular piece of gear and the best models of the year.

1. CARRYING

45-55L BACKPACK

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RAIN COVER

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DRY BAG

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2. SLEEPING

SLEEPING BAG

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SLEEPING BAG LINER

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SLEEPING PAD

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TARP

HAMMOCK

 

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TENT

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3. NAVIGATING

COMPASS

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MAP & TRAIL GUIDES

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MAP HOLDER

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GPS DEVICE

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4. COOKING

BACKPACKING STOVE

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FUEL

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LIGHTER

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SPORK

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COOKWARE & DISHES

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5. EATING & DRINKING

MEALS

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SNACKS

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WATER FILTER

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WATER PURIFIER

WATER BLADDER

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6. CLOTHING FOR HOT WEATHER

HIKING SHIRT

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QUICK DRY SHORTS OR PANTS

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WICKING UNDERWEAR

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7. CLOTHING FOR COLD WEATHER

THERMAL BASE LAYER

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THERMAL LEGGINGS

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FLEECE JACKET

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BEANIE

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GLOVES

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8. RAIN GEAR

WATERPROOF RAIN JACKET

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WATERPROOF RAIN PANTS

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WATERPROOF GLOVES

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9. FOOTWEAR

TRAIL RUNNERS

 

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SANDALS

 

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SOCKS

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LINERS

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GAITERS

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10. PERSONAL ITEMS & ACCESSORIES

11. SAFETY

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One of our big goals here at The Adventure Junkies is to help you lighten your burden. We know you’re wondering if you’re ready to leave most of your gear at home and take on the wild lands in a different way. While in the end, only you can make that call, we’ll answer your burning questions about ultralight backpacking and help you identify its risks, rewards and trade offs.

GENERAL QUESTIONS

1. WHAT IS ULTRALIGHT BACKPACKING

Rather than fixate on a strict definition, it’s better to say that ultralight backpacking is a kind of hiking philosophy based on the idea that less is more. That being said, ultralight backpackers generally try to keep their Base Pack Weight (BPW) below 10 pounds.

2.WHAT’S BASE PACK WEIGHT?

Base Pack Weight or BPW is the weight of your pack after you fill it with all of your gear, excluding water food and fuel.

3. WHAT’S THE POINT?

By going into the wilderness with fewer things, we are freer and more open to its wonders and truths. But there are also more mundane arguments for going ultralight. For one, it’s easier on your body than carrying a heavy conventional pack, allowing backpackers to stay on the trail even into old age and despite aching bones and joints.

Also, you can hike farther and faster with less weight on your back; and when you stop for the night, setting up camp takes very little time, allowing more of it for exploring and relaxing. In general, lightening your pack makes backpacking trips easier and more likely to be repeated.

4. IS IT SAFE?

It’s as safe as you make it. Ultralight backpacking requires a sharp mind, knowledge of the area, basic wilderness survival skills and careful planning.

5. WILL I BE COMFORTABLE?

It’ll be as comfortable as you make it. Ultralight backpacking is all about compromise and trade off. A bedrock strategy is to trade camp comforts for trail comforts.

You don’t have a roomy tent or a varied feast at camp but you’re not as worn out as the person who does and you’ve had a better day. Now, you’re relaxing in your hammock, watching the stars or wrapped in your light but warm-enough sleeping bag beneath a silnylon tarp, munching on a power bar.

GEAR

6. WILL I NEED NEW GEAR?

Probably. There’s a lot of lightweight and ultralight backpacking gear out there, and it all seems to get lighter every year.

If you start obsessing about ounces, which ultralight backpackers always do, you’re eventually going to want the lightest gear you can find. But you don’t have to replace everything right away. Work on replacing the big, essential items first since those will likely be the heaviest.

7. WHAT ARE THE ESSENTIAL ITEMS?

A backpack, some kind of shelter, a sleeping bag and a sleeping pad. If you use a hammock, you don’t need a sleeping pad. If you use a tarp, you don’t need a tent. If you use a bivy sack, you don’t need a tarp or a tent.

Ultralight backpacks are typically about 45-55 liters and weigh no more than two pounds. In general, you should strive to keep the big items well below three pounds each.

8. SO HOW MUCH SHOULD MY PACK REALLY WEIGH?

In ultralight backpacking, you need to pay a lot of attention to the exact weight of each item you take with you, but that doesn’t mean you should have too many hard and fast rules about your total trail weight. It all depends on where you are hiking and for how long.

Depending on how long you plan to be out, you can keep your BPW relatively constant. For a three-day backpacking trip in spring, summer or fall in most areas of the country, you could easily keep your BPW at around 9 pounds.

However, your total trail weight (your full pack plus food, water and fuel) could end up being three times that depending on where you are. For example, are you in an area where you need to carry a lot of water with you?

A liter of water weighs a little over two pounds, and that adds up quickly. So you need to remain flexible about weight while at the same time paying it extra attention.

9. WHERE CAN I FIND ADVICE ABOUT BUYING GEAR

There are several websites and blogs dedicated to ultralight backpacking, and many of them have gear lists and advice. Also, talk to the employees of your local hiking and backpacking shop.

Ultralight is all the rage these days, so you’re bound to find someone who’s into it. Some ultralight backpackers even make their own gear.

Here at The Adventure Junkies, we offer gear reviews and guides. Here are a few of our gear articles to get you started.

Backpacking Tarps

Backpacking Sleeping Bags

Backpacking Water Purifiers

Backpacking Stoves

Backpacking Sleeping Pads

Back Packing Tents

Backpacking Hammocks

Backpacking Bivy Sacks

READY TO GO

10. WHAT ARE THE BEST SEASONS FOR ULTRALIGHT BACKPACKING?

It all depends on where you’re going, but ultralight backpacking trips generally work best in spring, summer and early fall. This is where planning becomes very important. You don’t want to take an ultralight trip during the rainy season unless you want to add the weight of rain gear and the discomfort or being wet and cold.

11. ARE SOME REGIONS BETTER THAN OTHERS FOR ULTRALIGHT BACKPACKING?

Knowledge of place is probably the best tool an ultralight backpacker has. If you know the place you’re hiking, know its flora and fauna, its seasons and temperament, you are more likely to backpack there comfortably.

When you’re starting out, take your first several trips in places that you know well, places where you can get water and where you won’t get cold and wet without a tent. If you’re using a hammock, make sure you go somewhere with trees — it’s hard to hang a hammock in the desert.

Make sure you know which pesky creatures you’re likely to encounter in camp and whether the trial is marked well. These and many other details unique to place will determine the ultimate weight on your back.

12. WHERE CAN I LEARN MORE ABOUT ULTRALIGHT BACKPACKING?

Look for advice on ultralight blogs and websites, YouTube tutorials and online conversations. Also, check the local library for guidebooks on ultralight backpacking, and talk to as many folks as you can who have actually done it.

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