Sleeping well in a campsite: the ideal mattress

As soon as time permits, the camper in us hears the call of nature, and starts planning outdoor trips to the sea or to the mountains. It is a way to ward off stress and get out of the routine.
Let's not forget that, among its many merits, life "on the road" also has some drawbacks. For example, not getting enough quality sleep due to an uncomfortable bed. The first rule is to check the ground on which we are pitching the tent, removing any stones and verifying that we are far from roots and other natural obstacles.
But the real secret to sleeping "like a log" is to have a good camping mat.

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT MAT FOR YOU.

Of course, everyone's back has a different conception of comfort, but there are many differences between the classic sponge mat and a good inflatable mattress. Consider how you intend to use it, compare prices, and don't save on comfort!
The R-Value scale from 1 to 5 establishes the insulating properties, that is, the mattress' capacity to counter heat loss. Lower levels indicate less resistance to cold temperatures. By ease of transport, on the other hand, we mean the relationship between weight and compactness: for camping, a thicker, more comfortable and wider mattress is better, while for trekking, a light, compact mat is easier to carry. Last but not least, consider the speed of inflation and deflation.

3 TYPES OF CAMPING MATS.

The classic gym mat has the best insulating properties. However, it is bulkier and less comfortable than other types. Some more high-tech models have one side covered with aluminium to increase their insulating capacity. Inflatable mats are very light in relation to their size, because they are practically free of insulating material. However, there are also more insulating, heavier and more expensive models available on the market. They usually come with manual pumps for quick inflation. Some models have a pump integrated into the mat, while others can be blown up manually, thanks to special airtight compartments.
The insulating performance of self-inflating mattresses is provided by the expanded foam, which traps and retains heat. Inflation and deflation are simple and fast. They are heavier and larger, but also more comfortable because the air inside prevents the body from compressing the foam.

ALSO THINK ABOUT YOUR SLEEPING BAG

Now that you have a clearer idea on the most suitable camping mat, equip yourself with a sleeping bag that will keep you warm if it's cold outside, or that stops you sweating when it's hot. Here, too, there are many options: from the very high-tech winter sleeping bags that resist temperatures below zero, to lightweight and breathable models suitable for summer holidays. Among all these models, you will surely find the one that's right for you!