Side sleepers often face challenges when it comes to finding the perfect camping mattress.
Your main concern is likely adequate support and proper spinal alignment.
Lying on your side can cause your hips and shoulders to sink into the mattress unevenly, leading to discomfort and potential pain if the support is insufficient.
Another issue side sleepers encounter is pressure point relief.
When you’re sleeping on your side, your body weight is concentrated on your hips and shoulders.
A camping mattress that doesn’t offer enough cushioning can lead to soreness or even numbness in those areas.
You’ll need a mattress that provides a balance of support and softness to alleviate pressure from these points.
Temperature regulation can be problematic for some side sleepers, especially during summer camping trips.
A lot of body heat gets trapped between you and the mattress, which may result in overheating, which is why it helps to look for a camping mattress made of more breathable materials.
Lastly, ease of transport and setup might be a concern for side sleepers, as many camping mattresses specifically designed for this sleep position tend to be bulkier and heavier.
You’ll want to find a mattress that strikes the right balance between providing support and being lightweight and compact, so you can have a comfortable night’s sleep without sacrificing portability.
Here are 10 of our top camping mattress picks for side sleepers who are looking to prioritize a good night’s sleep on their outdoor adventures.
Hikenture camping mattress ultra-thick 5-inch
This Hikenture camping mattress is an excellent choice for side sleepers seeking maximum comfort and support while camping.
Pros
- Ultra thick 5-inch design for maximum comfort
- Ergonomic sleeping pad with built-in pillow
- Quick and easy inflation with included pump sack
Cons
- Slightly narrow, making it easy to roll off
- Takes some time to inflate
- May not be suitable for those with neck and back issues
This Hikenture camping mattress is designed explicitly with side sleepers in mind.
With its 5-inch thickness, you’ll feel like you’re floating above any rocky or rough terrain, ensuring a comfortable night’s sleep after a day of outdoor adventure.
The ergonomic design and built-in pillow provide additional support for your head and neck, so you can rest easy while camping.
Inflating the mattress is a breeze, thanks to the included pump sack.
You won’t have to worry about getting light-headed from blowing air into the mattress, as it only takes five to eight pumps to fill it up completely.
The patented two-way valve also allows for quick deflation and lets you adjust the firmness to your liking.
Weighing just 2.5 pounds and packing down to a compact size of 11×5 inches, this camping mattress is perfect for backpacking and other outdoor adventures.
The ripstop nylon fabric is both tear-resistant and water-resistant, ensuring durability even in harsh conditions.
Despite its many positive features, some users may find the mattress a bit narrow, making it easy to roll off during sleep.
Additionally, while the pump sack makes inflation more manageable, it can still take some time to fill up the mattress completely.
Lastly, those with neck and back issues may not find this mattress suitable for their needs.
CYMULA memory foam camping mattress pad
The CYMULA Memory Foam Camping Mattress Pad offers exceptional comfort, making it a good choice for side sleepers planning on venturing out on a camping trip.
Pros
- High-density memory foam for maximum comfort
- CertiPUR-US certified for safety
- Easy to carry with portable design and included storage bag
Cons
- May require 24-48 hours to fully expand after unboxing
- Not suitable for those looking for a lightweight camping pad
- Waterproofing limited to the bottom of the mattress
This CYMULA camping mattress pad is designed with high-density memory foam that adapts to your body’s shape and weight, providing excellent comfort and support.
Its CertiPUR-US certification means you can trust that this mattress is safe for you and the environment.
In addition to its undeniable comfort, the CYMULA camping mattress is easy to transport thanks to its portable design, storage bag, and adjustable buckle on the fleece cover.
It can be rolled up and easily carried to your campsite, making set-up a breeze.
Unfortunately, it’s not as lightweight as other camping pad options, which could be a downside for some campers.
The bottom of the mattress features a non-slip waterproof fabric, which helps it stay put on slippery or rough terrain.
It’s important to note that the waterproofing is limited to the bottom, meaning that moisture could potentially affect the memory foam if there’s excessive dampness in your tent.
AIRELAX sleeping pad
The AIRELAX sleeping pad is a must-have if you’re a side sleeper seeking maximum comfort during your camping trips.
Pros
- Comfortable 4-inch thick sleeping pad with inner foam
- Self-inflating with reversible dual valve
- Durable and warm with R-Value of 12.5
Cons
- A bit heavy, not ideal for hiking
- Takes effort to deflate fully
- May need to top-off air nightly
The AIRELAX sleeping pad provides the perfect balance between an air mattress and a foam pad, giving you a comfortable and steady sleeping surface.
The 4-inch thick pad is great for side sleepers because it allows you to sleep without feeling the hard ground underneath.
The inner foam makes it soft, providing better support than average memory foam.
One of the standout features is the true self-inflating capability, thanks to its reversible dual valve.
You can flip the knob inside the valve to the “INFLATE” position, and it will inflate itself.
If you need it firmer, you can use the storage bag as a manual air pump to adjust the firmness.
The valve also allows you to let out some air if you over-inflate the mattress.
As a side sleeper, you’ll appreciate the warmth and durability it provides.
With an R-Value of 12.5, it’ll keep you warm on those chilly camping nights.
Additionally, the bottom material is tear-resistant, waterproof, and thermally insulated for added protection and comfort.
However, there are some downsides to consider.
The pad is relatively heavy, making it less suitable for backpacking trips.
It’s better suited for car camping, RVs, or rooftop tents.
Deflating the pad can also require some effort, but rolling it up with your body weight can make the process easier.
ZOOOBELIVES extra thickness inflatable sleeping pad with built-in pump
For side sleepers looking for a camping mattress, the ZOOOBELIVES extra thickness inflatable sleeping pad is worth considering due to its comfort and built-in pump.
Pros
- Extra thickness for added comfort
- Built-in pump for easy inflation
- Waterproof material and firm support
Cons
- Slightly heavier than other camping mattresses
- Might not be suitable for backpacking
- May require additional inflation over time
The ZOOOBELIVES Extra Thickness Inflatable Sleeping Pad is designed with side sleepers in mind, providing additional thickness and support to ensure a comfortable sleep.
Its 4-inch thickness helps keep your hips and shoulders off the ground, making it more suitable for people with joint issues like arthritis.
The built-in pump is a convenient feature that makes inflation quick and easy.
While it does require some leg work, it saves you the hassle of carrying an external pump or inflating the mattress with your mouth.
The mattress is also waterproof, providing an extra layer of protection against moisture and dampness during your camping trip.
However, there are a few downsides to this mattress.
Firstly, it weighs three pounds, making it slightly heavier compared to other camping mattresses.
If you’re planning a backpacking trip, this might not be the best option for you.
Additionally, some users have reported that the mattress may deflate a bit over time, requiring you to inflate it again during your trip.
Elegear double sleeping pad for camping
If you’re a side sleeper searching for a comfortable camping mattress, the Elegear double sleeping pad is worth your consideration.
Pros
- Ultra-thick 4-inch sleep pad for added comfort
- Unique drawstring support technology for improved weight-bearing capacity
- Built-in foot pump for easy, hygienic inflation
Cons
- Weighs 5 lbs, which may be slightly heavy for backpacking trips
- Takes about 3 minutes to inflate, depending on foot pressing speed
- Cleaning requires a damp cloth and no strong detergent
The Elegear double sleeping pad is designed specifically for side sleepers, offering an ultra-thick 4-inch sleep pad that measures 79″ x 55.”
This inflatable camping mattress keeps you comfortably off the ground and provides a feeling similar to sleeping on a home mattress.
The unique drawstring support technology helps to meet body curves, effectively dispersing gravity and increasing the weight-bearing capacity up to 800 pounds.
Unlike many camping mattresses, the Elegear double sleeping pad comes with a built-in foot pump, which allows for easy inflation in just three minutes.
No need for mouth blowing or an extra pump—simply press with your foot, and you’re good to go.
The double-layer valves on the pillow prevent air leakage and enable rapid deflation.
Just make sure to close the valves tightly before inflating.
Constructed with ultra-thick waterproof 40D nylon and TPU eco-friendly materials, this sleeping pad is suitable for harsh outdoor environments.
It’s both puncture and moisture-resistant, ensuring durability and no air leakage.
Despite its thickness, this camping air mattress only weighs five pounds, making it a reasonable choice for family camping trips or even as a guest bed at home.
It may be slightly heavy for backpacking endeavours, but if you prioritize comfort and support over weight, this camping mattress is a solid choice.
Kingfun memory foam camping mattress
This camping mattress is a great choice for side sleepers seeking comfort and support while camping.
Pros
- Comfortable 2-layer foam design
- High-quality, water-resistant travel bag
- Waterproof, upgraded cover with anti-slip bottom
Cons
- May require 72 hours to fully expand
- Difficult to roll and fit into the case
- No information about warranty duration
This Kingfun memory foam camping mattress offers a comfortable sleep for side sleepers by featuring a two-layer design.
The one-inch, gel-infused memory foam and two-inch high-density support foam provide a medium-firm feel, balancing comfort and support well.
The foam even keeps its shape after long-term use, ensuring the mattress remains comfortable over time.
A convenient aspect of this camping mattress is its compact roll-up design, making it easy to carry and store, whether indoors or outdoors.
The included water-resistant travel bag has two zippered pockets, helping to keep your valuables secure.
This makes the mattress great for camping trips, guest visits, and other scenarios where a temporary sleeping solution is needed.
The cover of the mattress has a soft, water-resistant velboa material with a TPU coating, providing protection against moisture while remaining comfortable.
The anti-slip bottom also ensures the mattress stays in place during use.
It has eight Velcro connectors in the corner, making it easy to create a custom sleeping mat.
There are however a few minor drawbacks to this mattress.
Firstly, it may take up to 72 hours to fully expand after unpacking, which may be very inconvenient and time consuming for some campers.
Secondly, it can be difficult to roll the mattress and fit it back into the travel bag.
And lastly, there’s no information provided on the duration of the warranty for the mattress.
NOWTOWIN inflatable sleeping pad for camping
This camping mattress provides comfort and convenience for side sleepers with its extra thickness and built-in foot pump.
Pros
- Extra thick 5.1-inch cushion for comfort
- Built-in foot pump for easy inflation
- Durable, waterproof, and leak-proof construction
Cons
- May be a bit noisy when adjusting
- Slightly heavy for backpacking purposes
- Needs re-inflating every few days
The NOWTOWIN inflatable sleeping pad is designed to give side sleepers a comfortable and restful night in the great outdoors.
With its 5.1-inch thick padding and high-quality 40D Nylon and TPU materials, this sleeping pad offers superior support and isolation from the ground and moisture.
Inflation is a breeze, thanks to the built-in foot pump.
It takes just 2 to 3 minutes to inflate the pad, and deflation is even faster, taking only a second after opening the deflation valve.
You can also inflate it by hand or using an electric pump if needed.
One of the concerns side sleepers might have is the noise produced by the pad as they change position.
Some users have noted that the plastic material can be a bit noisy during movement, which might be a drawback for light sleepers.
While this camping mattress is lightweight at 2.4 pounds, it might still be on the heavier side for some backpackers.
If you’re planning to go on long hikes, consider the weight factor before choosing this pad.
Although the pad is designed to be leak-proof, some users have reported needing to re-inflate it every few days.
This might not be a big issue for shorter camping trips, but it’s worth considering if you plan to be outdoors for an extended time.
LOSTHORIZON Airsoft 4.5” thick self-inflating sleeping pad
The LOSTHORIZON Airsoft 4.5” thick self-inflating sleeping pad offers excellent comfort and support while camping, especially for side sleepers.
Pros
- Superior support and comfort
- Adjustable softness levels
- Silent and stable sleeping surface
Cons
- Not recommended for backpacking
- Challenging deflation process
- Time-consuming storage process
This sleeping pad combines 4.5-inch thickness and 12-pound foam filling to deliver exceptional support and comfort, accommodating various body types.
Its unique internal structure evenly distributes air and foam, effectively reducing pressure points and ensuring a good night’s sleep.
One standout feature of the LOSTHORIZON Airsoft sleeping pad is its adjustability.
Its unique combination of foam and air lets you personalize the firmness and softness levels, elevating your sleep quality.
This level of customization sets it apart from other single-material sponge or memory foam pads in the market.
While ensuring comfort, this sleeping pad also offers a silent and stable sleeping surface.
Its design minimizes noises during movement, so you won’t disrupt your sleep or your partner’s.
This characteristic makes it an ideal choice for couples or individuals who tend to move during sleep.
Of course, this pad does have its drawbacks.
First, it isn’t ideal for backpacking due to its size and weight.
Also, deflating the pad can be challenging, requiring some patience.
An electric pump (sold separately) is available to make the inflation and deflation process more convenient.
Lastly, stowing the pad may take time and effort, but the comfort it provides might be worth it.
HEYTRIP 4-inch thick self-inflating sleeping pad for camping with 9.5 R-value
The HEYTRIP self-inflating sleeping pad provides a comfortable and warm sleep for side sleepers during camping trips.
Pros
- Comfortable and spacious design
- Fast self-inflation system
- Lightweight and space-saving
Cons
- Slightly bulky when packed
- Not suitable for backpacking
- Might require additional inflation for desired firmness
The HEYTRIP 4-inch thick self-inflating sleeping pad is designed specifically for side sleepers who want a comfortable sleep during their camping trips.
With its 78 x 30 x 4-inch dimensions, this pad offers plenty of space to stretch out and feel relaxed throughout the night.
The premium stretch fabric is skin-friendly, soft, cozy, and quiet, ensuring a peaceful sleep during your outdoor adventures.
One of the standout features of this sleeping pad is its self-inflation mechanism.
It inflates three times faster than other pads in the market—taking only 60 seconds to inflate on its own.
Additionally, a pump sack is included for you to add a few breaths to reach your desired level of firmness.
This pad is lightweight, weighing only 6.4 pounds, and comes with a compact packed size of 32 x 10 inches, which makes it a convenient choice for car camping trips.
With an R-value of 9.5, the HEYTRIP sleeping pad offers excellent insulation from the cold ground, making it suitable for all-season use, even in extremely low temperatures.
However, it might not be the best option for backpacking due to its slightly bulky packed size.
Some users might also find that they need to add extra breaths to reach their preferred level of firmness.
Dsmtousa SUV air mattress
This Dsmtousa SUV Air Mattress is a great choice for side sleepers looking for comfort and convenience during camping trips.
Pros
- Made of thick flocking and premium PVC materials
- 3-in-1 portable design, easy to store
- Super load-bearing capacity up to 600 lbs
Cons
- May not fit all car models
- Inflation process requires car lighter connection
- Might deflate slowly over time
The Dsmtousa SUV Air Mattress is designed with side sleepers in mind, featuring thick flocking and premium PVC materials for added comfort.
Its ergonomic design also ensures outstanding durability and waterproof performance, so you don’t have to worry about your sleeping environment while camping.
One of the standout features of this air mattress is its 3-in-1 portable design.
It’s easy to store and carry, and takes up minimal space when not in use.
This versatility allows you to adapt the mattress for various scenarios like car travel or camping in the great outdoors.
The mattress can support up to 600 pounds, making it suitable for 2 to 3 adults at a time, and it holds its air well, with no obvious deflation for over 72 hours of use.
There are however a few considerations to keep in mind before purchasing.
Depending on your car’s model, the mattress may not be an ideal fit for your specific vehicle.
Additionally, inflating the mattress requires a car lighter connection, which could be inconvenient for some users.
Finally, while the mattress holds air relatively well, it might slowly deflate over extended periods of use.
What side sleepers should look for in a good air mattress
When shopping around for the best camping mattress to support a side sleeping position, there are a few key features you should consider to make the right choice.
Comfort and support
As a side sleeper, you know that comfort and support are vital in a camping mattress.
Look for one with adequate padding or cushioning to avoid pressure points on your hips and shoulders.
A good mattress will provide the right balance of softness and support, ensuring that your spine remains well-aligned while you sleep.
Size and weight
The size and weight of your camping mattress matter, especially if you plan on using it for backpacking trips.
You’ll want a lightweight, compact mattress that fits well inside your backpack without taking up too much space.
But make sure to choose a mattress that is also long and wide enough to accommodate your body comfortably.
Durability
A durable camping mattress is essential for a successful camping trip.
It should withstand rough surfaces, punctures, and regular wear and tear.
Look for a mattress made from high-quality materials that can handle tough conditions and last for many camping trips to come.
Insulation
If you plan on camping in colder weather or if you’re a naturally cold sleeper, the insulation provided by your camping mattress is crucial.
The R-value is a measure of the insulation properties of a camping mattress.
Higher R-values indicate better insulation, keeping you warmer in cold conditions.
Choose a mattress with an appropriate R-value based on the climate you’ll be camping in.
Inflation and deflation
The ease of inflation and deflation should also be taken into account.
Make sure the camping mattress you choose inflates and deflates quickly.
This will save you time and effort when setting up camp or packing up.
The less time you have to spend inflating your mattress, the more time you can spend enjoying your trip.
Price
Lastly, consider your budget when choosing a camping mattress.
Keep in mind that higher prices often indicate better features and quality.
Nevertheless, you should be able to find a suitable mattress within your price range.
Just remember to prioritize your needs and preferences, so you can get the ideal camping mattress without breaking the bank.
Taking these factors into consideration will help you choose a camping mattress that meets your needs as a side sleeper.
Happy camping!
Next up: What size air mattress fits in a 2, 3, or 4-person tent?
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
What are the top sleeping pads for side sleepers while backpacking?
The top sleeping pads for side sleepers while backpacking include the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite, Sea to Summit Ultralight, and Big Agnes Insulated AXL Air.
These lightweight sleeping pads offer excellent support and cushioning for side sleepers, making them ideal choices for backpacking trips.
Which mattresses provide maximum comfort for side sleepers during car camping?
For car camping, side sleepers can enjoy maximum comfort with thicker and larger mattresses like the REI Co-op Kingdom Insulated Sleep System, Exped MegaMat 10, and the NEMO Roamer.
These mattresses provide more cushioning and better insulation, ensuring a good night’s sleep without worrying about size and weight constraints.
How does thickness affect sleeping pad comfort for side sleepers?
Thickness plays a vital role in sleeping pad comfort for side sleepers.
A thicker pad, usually around three inches or more, offers better cushioning and support for the hips and shoulders.
It helps distribute weight evenly and reduces pressure points, resulting in a more comfortable and restful sleep.
Which NEMO pads are ideal for side sleepers while camping?
NEMO offers several pads suitable for side sleepers, including the NEMO Tensor Insulated, NEMO Astro Insulated Lite, and the NEMO Roamer.
These pads provide a good balance of comfort, support, and insulation, ensuring a pleasant sleeping experience for side sleepers during camping trips.
Are self-inflating sleeping pads suitable for side sleepers?
Yes, self-inflating sleeping pads can be suitable for side sleepers.
They typically offer a good balance of comfort and support. Examples include the Therm-a-Rest ProLite Plus and the Exped SynMat.
Make sure to choose a self-inflating pad with adequate thickness and cushioning to meet your comfort needs.
From user experiences, which ultralight sleeping pads are preferred by side sleepers?
Ultralight sleeping pads preferred by side sleepers usually include the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite, Sea to Summit Ultralight, and the Exped SynMat.
These pads are lightweight and packable, making them ideal for backpacking trips, while still offering sufficient cushioning to ensure a comfortable sleep for side sleepers.
Elise is an experienced backcountry canoe tripper and winter camper from Ontario, Canada. She loves cooking up a storm over the campfire, taking in all the backcountry views, and enjoying a piña colada or two while relaxing at camp. She’s also certified in Whitewater Rescue (WWR) I & II and Wilderness First Aid (WFA).