THE BEST BACKPACKING SLEEPING PAD FOR YOUR BUDGET.

​If you're looking for a lightweight compact sleeping pad, look no further. Every pad has it's pros and cons, but I have outlined a few of my favorites below for you to choose from. 

​Spoiler alert** I chose the Paria Recharge pad because it has many of the same features as the infamous NeoAir XLite without the steep price tag. Although, If you'll be doing most of your hiking in a warm climate, you can likely get away with a lower r value option such as the Klymit Static V listed below. And if money isn't an issue and you're willing to spend a little extra... go for the NeoAir XLite I'm sure you won't regret it.
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$ BUDGET ($50)
​Klymit Static V Lightweight Sleeping Pad​

SHOP

What I like... 

• Extremely comfortable (2.5 inches off the ground)
• Packs up VERY small 
• Lightweight (19oz)

​What I don't...

• ​Low thermal (r) value (1.3)   *this is a deal breaker if you expect cold weather 

​

$$ BEST VALUE ($70)
Paria Outdoor Products ReCharge Sleeping Pad - Ultralight, Insulated Air Pad

SHOP

What I like... 

• Extremely comfortable (2.5 inches off the ground)
• Packs up VERY small 
• Good thermal (r) value (3.5)
• Lightweight (20oz)

​What I don't...

• ​Loud 

​

$$$ BALLIN ($160)
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite Ultralight Backpacking Air Mattress

SHOP

What I like... ​

• Extremely comfortable (2.5 inches off the ground)
• Packs up VERY small 
• Good thermal (r) value (3.2)
• Lightweight (12oz)

​What I don't...

• ​​Expensive
• ​Loud 

​​​**You'll notice that these are all self inflating pads and that's not by chance.

​I ruled out the alternative foldable pads because they are considerably more bulky (although this might be the right choice for you if you frequently camp in desserts or areas prone to sharp potentially puncturing objects).

And while self inflating pads were tempting (because I'm lazy af), I find that having to self inflate a pad is a small price to pay for the compact size and comfort of the inflatable alternative.