Camping Sleeping Pads for NZ

Camping Sleeping Pads Buyers Guide

The best sleeping pad depends on how you tramp, how much weight you want to carry, and how much comfort you need overnight. This category includes lighter inflatable mats for pack-based trips, thicker pillow-style mats, and a wider 10cm mattress for comfort-focused camping.

Choose a 499g ultralight mat for lower pack weight

The 499g sleeping mats suit trampers, bikepackers, and anyone trying to keep gear weight down. They take up less pack space and work well as a backup mat when huts may be full. They are also a practical choice for warmer trips where low weight matters more than extra thickness.

Choose a 5cm mat with pillow for balanced support

The 5cm camping mats weigh 690g and include a built-in pillow section. They suit campers who want more support than the lightest mats, while still keeping the packed weight reasonable. The 190 x 60 cm size gives enough sleeping space for most adults without becoming bulky.

Choose the 10cm mattress for more comfort

The 10cm inflatable camping mattress suits users who want a thicker sleep surface. It measures 195 x 70 cm and weighs 1000g, so it gives more room and cushioning than the lighter tramping mats. It is best for short walks, car camping, base camps, or comfort-focused overnight trips.

Which sleeping pad is best for NZ tramping?

• Long multi-day trips: Choose a 499g ultralight mat to save pack weight.
• Mixed hut and tent use: Choose a compact inflatable mat as a backup sleeping surface.
• More comfort: Choose a 5cm mat with built-in pillow support.
• Wider sleeping space: Choose the 10cm mattress with the larger 195 x 70 cm size.
• Rolling off the mat: A tapered tramping mat may fit inside many sleeping bags, which can help keep it in place.

Weight versus comfort

Lighter mats make walking easier, especially on longer tramps. However, thicker mats give more cushioning on hard ground. For most lightweight tramping, the 499g mats are the best weight-saving option. For easier trips, the 690g and 1000g options give more comfort.