Browse our range of camping mats, sleeping mats and self-inflating camping mattresses made to help you get a more comfortable night’s sleep outdoors. Whether you need a lightweight camping sleeping pad for backpacking or a thicker self-inflating camping mattress for family camping, our collection includes reliable options from trusted brands such as Outwell and Vango.
We stock single camping mats, double camping mattresses, roll mats and inflatable camping mattresses, giving you plenty of choice for different trips and sleeping setups. Designed to offer insulation, support and easy transport, these mats are a useful addition to any camping kit. Just unroll your mat or open the valve, and you’ll have a more comfortable place to sleep when you pitch your tent.
What Are Self-Inflating Mats?
Camping mats and self inflating mattresses both add comfort and insulation when sleeping outdoors, but each one suits a different style of camping.
Camping mats / sleeping pads – Lightweight and compact, making them a good choice for backpacking, hiking, and trips where saving space matters.
Self inflating mattresses – Thicker and more supportive, making them better suited to family camping, weekends away, and longer stays on site.
Inflatable camping mattresses – Usually offer the most cushioning and work well for car camping or when pack size is less important.
If comfort is the main priority, a self inflating camping mattress is often the better option. If you need something lighter and easier to carry, a camping mat or lightweight sleeping pad may be more suitable.
You can also pair your camping mat with a camping bed or browse our range of sleeping bags to complete your camping sleep setup.
Self Inflating Mats FAQs
What is a self-inflating mattress?
A self-inflating mattress is a camping bed that fills with air on its own once the valve is opened. Inside, there is foam that expands and pulls air in, creating a padded sleeping surface with very little effort. It is a popular choice for camping because it is simple to use and offers added comfort off the ground.
How does a self-inflating mattress work?
Inside a self-inflating mattress is an open-cell foam core. When you undo the valve, the foam expands and draws air into the mattress. After that, you can make it firmer by blowing in a little extra air or softer by releasing some. Once you close the valve, the air stays inside and the mattress is ready to sleep on.
What are the benefits of self-inflating mattresses compared to air beds?
Self-inflating mattresses usually provide more warmth and support than standard air beds because of the foam layer inside. They are also quicker to get ready, as they do not rely fully on a pump. Another advantage is that if a little air escapes, the foam still gives you some padding, so you are not left lying flat on the ground.
Are camping mats comfortable to sleep on?
Camping mats can be a comfortable option, especially when they are well made and offer decent insulation. Although they are normally slimmer than a mattress, they are designed to add support and reduce the feel of uneven ground underneath. Many modern mats strike a good balance between comfort, pack size and weight.
How do I choose between a self-inflating mattress and a camping mat?
The best option depends on how you camp. A self-inflating mattress is better suited to those who want more cushioning and warmth, particularly for longer stays or cooler weather. A camping mat is often the better choice when keeping weight and pack size down matters more, such as on backpacking or hiking trips.
