Exped - Ultra 5R

Exped Ultra 5R in rectangular wide. You will love the lengthwise air chambers and how quiet this pad is. Not to even mention the side bumper action feature.

Exped has wide pads that are very quiet. The 5R is warm enough for me to 20F for sure, so in rectangular (not mummy) it might suit you. If you believe that noise comes from a pad squeaking against the fabric of a tent floor, then putting a 1/8" thinlite (or goodnite) CCF pad between an inflatable and tent floor will create enough friction to "lock" the inflatable in place and prevent squeaking. Also such a CCF will add to warmth [and weight]. And the lengthwise air chambers may help a side sleeper stay centered on the pad. I still have to wear earplugs to sleep but I imagine that you do as well because of the frogs, toads, crickets, and katydids that are tremendously noisy at night.

I also want to mention that the valves of some pads are not designed to be mistreated. For instance, on Exped pads, DO NOT simply pull the flap to open the valve. BE SURE to hold the part of the valve that is permanently attached to the pad fabric separately so that the forces of opening the flap do not tear the valve out of the fabric.

Lengthwise baffles are always the best. Why is that you may ask? I think one reason is that one can easily feel or sense that one is not about to move off the pad and even that one is centered on the pad. The Exped has slightly larger "in diameter" edge tubes, so that also helps one sense in total darkness where one's body, legs, and feet are on the pad. I sleep on my back, on my stomach, on my left side and on my right side, and everywhere in-between. Also it is helpful to get a mummy-shaped pad to save some weight. Also helpful to get a wide pad. Also helpful to have a virtually noiseless pad.

I'll offer a contrasting viewpoint: My Exped pads can be inflated to be quite firm with the Schnozzle pump sack that they come with. I usually have to let some air out. If I use my Pad-Pal inflator then I have to blow in another partial breath. My hip doesn't come close to bottoming out, but I am not very heavy myself.

A similar thread from yesterday might be worth visiting: [https://www.reddit.com/r/Ultralight/comments/1l5j7gk/noisy\_sleeping\_pad\_what\_is\_a\_good\_alternative/](https://www.reddit.com/r/Ultralight/comments/1l5j7gk/noisy_sleeping_pad_what_is_a_good_alternative/) Exped Ultra 5R (aka SynMat Winter H) works for me below freezing temps. Also a WIDE pad is worth it for me. A problem with all these daily pad questions is that the daily responses are not representative of the universe of pad users. One probably has to read at least 3 months of such threads to come to the conclusion that there is no consensus. Good luck with your search and please report back what ended up working for you.

I love my Exped Ultra 3R and 5R LW (77.6 x 25.6 x 3). I'm also 6'2", 225lb weight and they are perfect for me, confortable and lightweight. I'm sure the MegaMat Ultra is also very comfortable, thought the weight would be a deal breaker for me. If you are just interested in comfort, then I would also look at a large Thermarest Neoloft. [](https://valleyandpeak.co.uk/cdn/shop/files/Therm-A-Rest_NeoLoft_Sleeping_Mat_Front.webp?v=1747222905) [](https://valleyandpeak.co.uk/cdn/shop/files/14158_thermarest_neoloft_ember_regularwide_angle_gearjunkie2024.webp?v=1747836793) [](https://valleyandpeak.co.uk/cdn/shop/files/Therm-A-Rest_NeoLoft_Sleeping_Mat_Thickness.webp?v=1747836793) [](https://valleyandpeak.co.uk/cdn/shop/files/Therm-A-Rest_NeoLoft_Sleeping_Mat_Length.webp?v=1747836793) [](https://valleyandpeak.co.uk/cdn/shop/files/Therm-A-Rest_NeoLoft_Sleeping_Mat_Packsize.webp?v=1747836793) [](https://valleyandpeak.co.uk/cdn/shop/files/Therm-A-Rest_NeoLoft_Sleeping_Mat_Contents.webp?v=1747836793) [](https://valleyandpeak.co.uk/cdn/shop/files/Therm-A-Rest_NeoLoft_Sleeping_Mat_Lifestyle.webp?v=1747836793) [](https://valleyandpeak.co.uk/cdn/shop/files/Therm-A-Rest_NeoLoft_Sleeping_Mat_Pump_Sack.webp?v=1747836793) [](https://valleyandpeak.co.uk/cdn/shop/files/Therm-A-Rest_NeoLoft_Sleeping_Mat_Lifestyle_2.webp?v=1747836793) [](https://valleyandpeak.co.uk/cdn/shop/files/Therm-A-Rest_NeoLoft_Sleeping_Mat_Lifestyle_3.webp?v=1747836793) [](https://valleyandpeak.co.uk/cdn/shop/files/Therm-A-Rest_NeoLoft_Sleeping_Mat_Lifestyle_4.webp?v=1747836793) [](https://valleyandpeak.co.uk/cdn/shop/files/Therm-A-Rest_NeoLoft_Sleeping_Mat_Lifestyle_5.webp?v=1747836793) [](https://valleyandpeak.co.uk/cdn/shop/files/Therm-A-Rest_NeoLoft_Sleeping_Mat_MSR_Tent.webp?v=1747836793) [](https://valleyandpeak.co.uk/cdn/shop/files/preview_images/hqdefault_4af17b86-5265-4bb8-8ca6-4ccd61bc2141.jpg?v=1737734349)

Yes, I generally side sleep. I the vertical baffles help prevent me from sliding off and i never find that I bottom out. The ultra 3/5R models are also warmer than their R value suggests. The ASTM testing doesn’t model a person moving and pumping air around inside the mat. The synthetic insulation reduces heat transfer due to airflow unlike in many mats that have foil ‘insulation’. I think the Exped Ultra 3/5R are underrated, especially in North America. However I don’t think the 7R, with down insulation, performs as well.

Aside from weight, R value, and bulk, I would say the rest is subjective. I'm not doing much ultralight camping stuff atm so I am using a bit heavier Exped Ultra 5R and I love the thing, I fill it up to the max and it feels like I am on a real bed. Some pads if I fill them up to the max they are super uncomfortable.

6'1.5" here at 250 pounds. I own an exped Ultra 5R LW, Ultra 3R Duo LW, Dura 5R Duo regular, and some Nemo roamers (like megamat). When solo I use the 5R LW. When I'm tent sharing with 1 of my kids, we share the 3R Duo. When I'm with 2 kids, Dura+ultra 5R. They all feel similar to me, kinda airy feeling mattress but they don't compare to the roamers which feels like my bed at home. I inflate them pretty much to their max also, I guess I'm used to a firm mattress, which isn't the case for everyone. Still feels good to me on my side. When I sleep on the Dura 5R regular my feet hang off and it's not bad but long term I would definitely prefer the longer pad, especially in cold or wet conditions. People here mention UL being ok with shorter pads but if you are considering this megamat ultra that's not the same realm haha. I used to use a short foam pad that just went under my shoulders and butt and it's definitely not comfortable, but was definitely ultralight. Tbh I get the megamat ultra market. People who wanna go backpacking with a nice mattress a step above these other ones, but it's all about how important that is to you. I could carry that on a one or 2 nighter probably as a luxury but on 5+ nighter with a bear can, the bulk and weight would no longer be worth it for me. But if it's the only way someone could sleep, then I can see it being an option.

I like my Exped 5R. 2 valves. a really nice inflation bag. Not very expensive. Comfortable. Just finished a trip in Alaska with it. Temps were 1C to 10C. Mine is the Long and Wide model and it comes in at 785 grams. Insulation rating of 5R. I'm an all over the place sleeper. I use an Enlighted Equipment quilt (with a foot box) instead of a bag.

I have the 3R MW and 5R MW. I’m going on a bikepacking trip next week with temps around 5-10 at night. I will bring my 3R. If I have the room for it on the bike I might go for the 5R. I will make the final decision as I pack my bike. I did buy a 7R to replace my xtherm, but the down seemed poorly distributed when I held it up to the light so I returned it. 5R with a ccf on top served me well at -5-10C last winter.

They're all good pads. I find them all comfortable in their own ways. Exped has the nicest fabric, but it's also the thickest which I don't really like. The Nemo tensor is the overall most comfortable, no nonsense, best of all worlds. The Xlite is my favorite however. I like the horizontal baffles. The new NXT version isn't as loud as its predecessors. The mummy shape is tapered in the perfect places unlike Expeds mummy pads, I prefer it over rectangular ones.

Exped 5r Regular/wide. Were the same height so don’t get the long. Absolute beast of a sleeping pad!

I sleep on a Exped Ultra 5r AT HOME every night. If I ain't worried over big miles, I take it backpacking. Cradles me just right with the outer "tubes" a little fatter than the midle ones. And I recommend a pillow that's tall enough for side sleeping. I usually take a thermarest x-lite on longer sections though, a little lighter and sleeps fine too.

If the Prolite works great for you, why not keep it and cut weight elsewhere? Pads are quite subjective, like recommending shoes. I agree it's a grail hunt, I've went through a bunch too! The Neoair is my go-to, the Exped Ultra is my favorite, and I can get by on a z-lite in warmer weather.

I second this. Love my exped 3R and 5R. The UL 5R is ~$160 and sleeps better than thicker pads I've used

I am an Exped Ultra 3R and 5R fan. I feel like they are highly underrated in the hiking community. My opinion is they sleep warmer than rated, are super comfortable, quite and cost less than a lot of pads. Just an FYI if you want another possibility/option. Edit: Sorry, I forgot this was Ultralight. I was thinking it was the Appalachian Trail sub.

Exped pads are highly underrated!

Agree 100%. I actually got the 5r because I was waking up every 20 min with pain in my arm from my thermarest. Figured out the side baffles were killing me. The exped is so nice I sleep so much better now.

If you liked the Dura why not get the 5r? I just got one, the mummy version which saves a few ounces, to replace my thermarest and I love it.

I have the 5r and love it. Exped rules.

I’ve only slept on the neoair and the exped from that list. I find the exped a little more comfortable to sleep on, but still always take the neoair because of the lighter weight, which is more comfortable in my pack. I am more of a rotisserie sleeper, but 1/3 of the time I’m on my back. I always opt for the 25” width because, well, I was born with arms and elbows! I cut my neoair down to 50” and use my backpack and sit pad under my feet. I don’t experience any discomfort from that setup and save 3-4 ounces thereby. I’m not sure I could cut my exped because of the baffle orientation. I keep it only to loan to friends.

For that price, get the Exped Ultra 5R.

If you want something for 3 seasons, go with the exped ultra 5r. They also have a 3r version if you want something in-between.

I have three; Exped Ultra 5R, Exped Flex, and Exped Deep Sleep. Ultra & Flex are my backpacking pads and the Deep Sleep is for car camping. Side and back sleeper that runs hot. Spring/summer/fall in the PNW. Go wide/long since you like to roll around.

Stick with the foam imo! Although foam won't necessarily be the most comfortable option to sleep on when camping on hard surfaces (which can be mitigated with site selection), it offers comfort in other ways. It's comfortable in that it's very low-maintenance: it'll never pop or develop a leak, and it'll never deflate in the middle of the night. You don't have to baby it whatsoever. It's comfortable in that it takes mere seconds to set up and take down. It's comfortable in that replacing it is easy and cheap. It's comfortable in that it's very light for the weight and you can trim it down to lighten it further. It's comfortable that it serves multiple purposes, including a sit pad during the day and a mat for stretching. All of these things pay dividends on a long-distance hike where light, reliable, multipurpose, and time-efficient gear rules. Also, I don't think foam is nearly as uncomfortable as people make it out to be. You can always use extra clothes and other stuff for padding if you have to camp on a hard surface. I find inflatables to be slippery and annoyingly narrow, whereas I can sprawl on foam like I'm on a real bed. Edit: I'll add that I own a Thermarest NeoAir X-Lite and an Exped Ultra 5R. I'd take foam over them any day on a thru-hike for the ease of use, durability, and weight. The last thing I want to do after a long day of hiking is to spend time blowing air into a glorified pool floatie.

Not sure about Rab pads, have heard nothing about them. Thermarest Neoair seem less durable than Nemo Tensors from everything I have read and heard. My own preference had been Exped. Ultra series are lighter Dura series are more durable. Mummies or rectangular options with various R values available. Never had an issue with my Ultra 5R.

I know they are light but the neoair durability isn’t great. Also Cascade (thermarest) just moved from Seattle to Reno and I bet things are super disorganized still I opted for the Exped Ultra series. There’s a weight penalty but I find them much more comfortable, and Exped repairs pads for the cost of shipping to Tacoma.

My exped 3r and 5r pads are great! They are very, very comfortable. Cannot speak for the Tensor. My REI doesn’t have the Exped Ultras on the floor, they’re a website item. If REI is a long drive, order from REI online and try it on your (very clean) floor for a night. REI has a no-questions-asked return policy.  For side sleeping I recommend sleeping on the pad slightly deflated and throwing a small piece of closed-cell foam under your hip.

The first thing you need is a skill: accepting disappointment. If you don’t want to go down the rabbit hole, you must accept that taking a stranger’s suggestion may result in you finding a better item later, and some regret that you didn’t purchase the “best” item first. You must then think: “ok, but I saved myself 15-30 hrs research.”  Complete gear list, 10lb $800 total: https://pmags.com/the-budget-backpacking-kit He also has a 15 lb $300 version  https://pmags.com/300-gear-challenge Cheapest is buying used or discount - check r/ulgeartrade, r/geartrade, and steep and cheap.  My recommendations:  Sleeping pad:  - cheapest is learning to sleep on CCF - Nemo switchback, ridge rest, or similar. Unbeatable value and reliability. (Pads advertise r=2ish. You can stack pads to double this, but folks typically find that foam pads are plenty warm for 3 seasons. Pads seem to sleep warmer than the r-value suggests, due to the way r-value for pads is measured - it ignores heat loss through the sides, which is minimal for thin foam and not minimal for thick air pads.) - lightest for the r-value inflatable is the Thermarest X-Lite NXT - more comfy and not too heavy is the Exped Ultra 5. (5=r-value of 4.8ish) You can buy a mummy-shape (in either regular or long-wide mummy) to cut weight or the rectangle (again in normal or long-wide) if you like to sprawl.  Sleeping bag:  I bought mine used, learned to wash it. It was a good learning project. 

Naturehike is not ASTM rated. Skip. The Rapide is a great pad but is a bit cold. If you want the direct replacement to this pad get the Boundary Deluxe, which is the new name for the Q Core Deluxe. However if you are going to go winter camping over snow go for a higher R value pad. Exped Ultra 5 Exped Ultra 7 Sea to Summit Etherlight XT Extreme Thermarest XTherm Nemo Tensor Extreme

5R and 3R mummy user here. Very comfortable mats. Very reliable.

Exped Ultra 3, 5 or 7

ExPed Ultra 5R has been a solid mat for me. Been plenty warm down <0°c>-10°c. I have the rectangular wide & it's been comfy and I've never found it noisy. I also have a Light Tour r7.5 - wide mummy, it's very light and small, smaller when it's blowed-up too, and definitely a bit noisy. Tolerable tho I'd say. I've found it to be warm enough down to just below freezing on the one camp I've had it out in the cold. I do generally sleep pretty warm and have a nice quilt, but it was definitely noticeably warmer than my 3.smthn summer mat I was A/B testing it against.

Doesn't that have down in it? I was looking at that one then, iirc I realized they used down insulation in it? and like... Who amongst us hasn't woken up in a newly formed lake or stream at least once while r/wildcampingintheUK ? 😂 I went with the 5R & have been fine on it below freezing (I do sleep pretty warm in general, but tbh think 5R is pretty decent for most UK-type situations)

I have the Xped 5R... It's _very_ comfortable and warm (much much warmer than I would ever need if I didn't plan on going down below 5°c!). But it's a _little_ bit chunkier and heavier than I might like if I wasn't in need of the warmth. XLite is lighter and more compact, but significantly less comfortable IMHO, also very warm. Can't speak to the Nemo personally. My summer pad is the [Kilos Gear Aerocloud UL](https://kilosgear.com/products/aerocloud-sleeping-pad-ul) and I really rate it; comfortable, lightweight, compact, and honestly surprisingly warm still, never really even felt the cold until it got down below 0°c - & obvs _much_ cheaper than the other options you've listed. Comfort is a little bit of a personal preference based on your physique and sleep preferences; but I would certainly recommend the kilos gear pad. Sorry to give you even more options 😂

Another vote for the Exped Ultra 5R. I LOVE mine. It is so comfy, and as a side sleeper the horizontal baffles stop my leg from sliding off onto the ground, which can be uncomfortable and cold. I have used it in -2 conditions, the side of my body that was on the mat was plenty warm, the side to the air, not so much, but that's a sleeping bag issue. And I feel the cold, so to be warm on the mat is saying a lot. As far as durability goes, I can't comment on that as I haven't spent a lot of nights on it. Ultralight is usually at the compromise of durability though. There is a more durable version, it has a bigger packed size and weight. Just depends what your priorities are and what you're willing/not willing to sacrifice.

I have the Exped and I find it comfortable and I have tried it at about 35F, it did the trick. The only thing is that you can't "over-inflate" it. Or maybe mine is a defect. At some point, you can't put more air inside, but the pad remains pretty soft. The thing is, for me, this is the perfect firmness, especially if you sleep on your back. When I sleep on my side, my hip is almost touching the ground (which is fine). I'm pretty sure it's not a defect and that's just the way they are, though.

I would try either/both of the exped ultra 3r or 5r (I would get the 5r if you plan to spend many nights below freezing), and also the nemo tensor trail or all weather. I’ve used both and I like both of them. Some people prefer the vertical baffles of the ultra series, while some prefer the flatter surface of the tensor. I’m also 6’2 and 215, by the way. I find a 72”x25” pad perfectly acceptable since I sleep on my side with my legs somewhat bent.

I have an Exped Ultra 5R and don't find it loud at all.

Agreed the Exped is surprisingly comfy for a side sleeper. I went with the ultra 5r but that shouldn’t make a difference. Tried and eventually got rid of: thermarest, ether light, klymit.

I'd definitely recommend the Exped Ultra 5r. Great mat, very warm, and super comfy. I came from a Thermarest Xtherm, which is obviously outrageously warm but isn't particularly comfy, and the Exped has been a revelation in comfort while still being really warm and respectably lightweight. It's the first time I've actually felt *genuinely* comfy on a camping mat. It feels well made as well, the material feels strong and has a bit of stretchiness to it that makes it feel softer and less like an inflatable lilo, and the valves are super simple mechanically so I expect they'll be durable unlike some of the overcomplicated ones some manufacturers like to use.

Gonna throw out that the exped is comfy and the nozzle air pump bag doubles as a dry bag that could replace your nyloflume liner, though admittedly it is heavier than a nyloflume bag.

I have an Exped Ultra 5R that is super comfy, and have had it down to -10C and was still plenty warm. Check out JustinOutdoors YT channel. He has a lot of tsting videos explaining the ins and outs of pads...

He recommends it as one of the more comfortable pads…

I am a mostly side sleeper, and love my Exped Ultra 5R. It has kept me comfy and warm at -10C.

[here's](https://www.reddit.com/r/WildernessBackpacking/s/7vAF6wA3dd) some suggestions I made recently. None are UL really but neither is the pad you're coming from. Best bet is probably the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Xlite in the usual mummy size for best/lightest in the segment. Exped Ultra 5R is fantastic but decidedly not UL

Do you have a max budget? Do you have a good sleeping bag to pair it with? Any of the modern inflatable pads will fit in your bag unless you've brought enough other stuff to cross the continent on foot, lol Here's our experiences, though not a comprehensive review of everything on the market. TLDR probably get you an Exped Ultra 5R. Nemo Tensor: I am a flopper and tended to roll onto the edges, which made them collapse and dumped me onto the ground. Pad is comfortable otherwise. It does make quite the crinkly sound when moving. Exped Ultra 3R: probably a bit cold when temps are approaching the lower end of your range. Large side baffles (like the Big Agnes you linked, I think) keeps you from flinging yourself off the pad. Thick and comfortable. Fantatsic pump sack inflates the thing in like 20 seconds. Was entirely too cold for us where it gets colder than your range. Side note, it was paired with a Big Agnes sleeping bag which was horrible. Terrible bag. Exped Ultra 5R: all the pros of the 3R but warm enough! Great pad, my wife's current go-to. Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite MAX: or whatever the yellow rectangle \~5R one is. Lacks the side bolsters of the Exped and is thinner, but is very comfortable and IIRC lighter. Another great pad, my current go-to. Pump sack is beyond useless, too porous and leaks air instead of blowing into pad. I just blow it up by mouth. Generally, I've found we prefer rectangular pads. If you're with someone else and you both have rectangular pads - make sure they fit in your tent! Many tents are tapered and your feet will overlap which is super annoying

I am 100kg and a side sleeper and I love my medium wide exped ultra 5r. I don’t wake up during the night on it.

I have not noticed the size in my pack at all

I haven't tried the Rab pad, but the other two will not get you below freezing. Exped ultra 5r is a great option, as already mentioned. The naturehike 5.8 pad could also be a good option - although there isn't much data on durability.

The Tensor AS and Ultra 5R are great pads for the canadian rockies. Both might be slightly cold depending on where you're going in mid-may as there can still be snow on the ground or the ground could still be frozen even if the snow has melted. I find frozen spring ground as cold as snow in the middle of winter. I'd look at a Neve Waratah quilt. The Waratah -8C is $353 CAD.

I haven't used the new Nemo Tensor AS, but I do own an Exped 5R, BA Rapide SL, and an old regular Tensor. The Exped is definitely the most comfortable of the three--something about the vertical baffles just feels better, especially as a side sleeper. The material feels nicer/sturdier too. It's also a bit quieter than the tensor or rapide. One downside though is that it's pretty thick when rolled up, so it does take up decent space in my bag.

I've got an Exped 5R in a long/wide size. It's listed as 77.6" x 25.6" x 3". I had a 7R a couple of years ago in the same size. It was a 3.5" thick mattress though. Honestly they've been some of the comfiest sleeping pads I've owned. I'm pretty much the same size as you are as well. I'm 6'2" and 215. I've never found the size of the pad to be too short or narrow. And I toss and turn like I'm clothes in a dryer. There's plenty of thickness to keep you from sinking in even if you're a side sleeper. The only downside to the pad is it's packed size. Which is bulkier than the traditional suggested sleeping pads, but it's really not that bad for what you get. Also I just looked at the Megamat. The 5R has a higher r-value, is still 3" vs 4", but that megamat packed size isn't worth the extra space at all in my opinion. I think the bulk of the megamat will cause more problems than it solves in the long run.

I currently use an Exped Ultra 7R which packs smaller, is lighter, and has an additional 2 R value than the S2S pad. They also have a 5R pad that’s even lighter. I have yet to find any down side to Exped other than they’re a bit on the costly side. I’m not sure about the S2S pad, but many 4 season pads have a crinkling sound from the reflective insulation layer, but my pad is much more muffled than most others with that layer. The noise alone is a winner for me since I tend to move a lot while sleeping.

Exped 5R is awesome. May be a little out of the price range but worth it.

+1 on this, I tried several pads (foam and inflatable) as a side sleeper and the Expeds are AMAZING. I actually get good nights sleep on trail with them and they’re pretty good in terms of weight. I’ve got the 3R, 5R, and 7R versions now. The inflating part takes some getting used to (“schnozzle bag”) but is kinda fun. At least they don’t advertise themselves as “self-inflating” like some other pads that don’t actually self inflate.

My Rapide SL insulated is very comfortable but nowhere close 4r. It might be 2r. Maybe. I just replaced it with the REI helix. 1oz heavier, but even more comfortable and a “true” 4.9r. They retail for $160. Exped 5r is also comfortable, warm, and has a great pump sack - although I suspect they’re getting ready to revamp them in the spring and they’ll be a decent amount more compact and lighter then. But you’ll probably find good Black Friday deals on the current one.

The 3R is a pretty incredibly value for an 18oz pad at around $150. The 5R is probably better for being in Maine outside of summer.

Quieter than the tensor. I use the 5R, wife has the Nemo

The Rapide SL is easily the most comfortable pad I have used. I have an older version though where the insulation doesn’t work properly, so I can’t use it in cold or even cool weather. I believe they fixed this issue, if so I would 100% go with that one. I tried the Tensor all-season and absolutely hated it, which was surprising because I have heard rave reviews about it. It made my arm go numb, jammed into my ribs/side, I could only inflate it ~halfway to be comfortable, and it sounded like I was sleeping on a Doritos bag. However it is incredibly packable and lightweight. Unfamiliar with the Etherlite personally. I ended up with the Exped 5R, not as comfortable as the Rapide SL but miles ahead of the Tensor. EDIT: Mainly a side and occasional back sleeper.

G'Day Practical, I've had an Exped Synmat which I recently replaced with an Exped 5R (I haven't used this yet, but it is the successor the Synmat). The Synmat lasted quite a few years and I was very happy with it. Both mats are rectangular rather than tapered so I think you will be less likely to slide off it. I certainly never had any problems, which is why I bought the 5R. Regarding sleeping bags, I have a three season bag (Exped Ultralite 300, \~300 g down) which I can pair with an inner bag (Macpac Snowflake, 130 g down). I used this combination (along with a silk inner sheet) in Nepal up to 4000 m (in accommodation) and was always comfortable. Note, you didn't mention having an inner sheet. If you do not have one, I advise you to get one (silk, not cotton). I think it is worth buying quality products from reputable manufacturers. They will last you a long time and be reliable.

I like my Exped 3r and in fact I just ordered a 5r to upgrade my temp ratings for 3season use. I belive they are Swiss made?

The Thermarest NeoAir is indeed lighter. At just 12 ounces the semi-mummy arguably the best quality sleeping pad in this range and weight. But it's also not cheap. The NeoAir Xtherm is the cold weather version, R 7.4, and 16 oz. The Nemo Tensor Extreme is rectangle, R 8.1, and 18 oz. Both the Thermarest and Nemos are quieter than they were in the past. Also, the more you use them, the more quiet they get. Agree the Thermarest pump sack is the worst of the bunch, no question, but I've gotten mine to work enough. The Rapide is usually warm enough for most people 3 seasons, and the reason to buy it is indeed it's thickness, and the sides being raised. Agree the Exped 5R is good for most people. It's a simple, comfortable, rectangle. R 4.8, and 1lb 4 oz. That's certainly heavier than the Thermarest but $50 cheaper.

Just for clarity, the 5R is not under a pound. It's 1lb, 4oz (regular size). Still, not a bad deal at all on a good pad. The 3R is 1lb even. Same as the Nemo Tensor, within grams.

i She might prefer vertical baffles, like the Exped 5R. Much softer feel for sensitive sleepers.

I think a lot of the inflatable pads are cold in sub freezing temperatures because they are getting cooled from the sides by the cold air. The cold sides will then cool the rest of the air between the mylar sheets. I imagine the exped don’t suffer as much from cooling from the sides because it’s filled with synthetic/down insulation and not “just” layers of mylar film. (This is just my theory) I was miserable on my thermarest xtherm at -20-25C. Going forward I will use my exped 5r coupled with a ccf, mammut bamse extreme, on top at those temps.

I'm about to buy the thermarest neoloft. It's thick and quiet, reasonable weight to comfort ratio and Nalgene sized. I have an exped 5r right now and can't stand it. Not comfy and sooooooooo loud.

Any Exped Med-Wide pads fit the bill. Incredibly comfy to boot. They are more expensive but a good nights sleep it worth it imo. Best investment I made for camping. I got my Deep Sleep for just over $100 on sale.

Exped Ultra is comfortable and ultralight. Pretty affordable, too. Give it a try. 

Most 20D pads seems to be "too fragile". Only exception seems to be the exped ultra somehow. But it's really hard to have a good picture on pads reliability.

I have a Nemo Tensor, Thermarest NeoAir X-Lite, and an Exped Ultra. My favorite of the 3 is the Exped. I haven't used the Rapide, but I'd put it in the same class as the ones I have. At that point, they are all so similar, buy the one that is the most comfortable for you. $20-30 less or more at that price point isn't huge, and is 100% worth it for more comfort.

I second exbed ultra, i also really like the sea to summit aeros deluxe backpacking pillow. They're a little annoying to set up and not the lightest or smallest, but it's very comfortable. I haven't done a thru, so I can't attest to long distance carries but I'm a very light sleepier with difficulty falling asleep and also absolutely need sleep, I'm not one of those people who can do well with minimal rest. I can only imagine on a thru I'd want maximum comfort for quality sleep. Some other commentor noted to inflate and slightly deflate and this is necessary although with practice you'll probably learn exactly how much to inflate and not have to tinker too much each night.

+1 on Exped ultra. This was way more comfy for me than the XTherm or the S2S

Hell yeah for the exped. Super comfy and I haven’t had problems with them leaking like I did with the tensor.

Exped dura/ultra. Good european quality, not comparable to all the US trash

Exped Ultra or if you will be in a bit rougher terrain the exped dura. I use a dura5r and its mor comfortable than my bed at home

Self-inflating mats are basically 1990’s technology. Heavy and less comfortable than fully inflatable mats. Get yourselves decent comfortable inflatable mats like. Sea to Summit Etherlight XT insulated or Exped Ultra.

I have an Exped as well as the bestway one often mentioned here and the zen bivvy one, and the exped is the comfiest and warmest hands down. However I can’t remember which one it is exactly (it’s an old model, now deprecated, but 7 cm deep). Also has by far the best inflation system.

I was using a backpacking style exped inflatable pad and recently replaced it with a self inflating one. Takes up a lot more space but far more comfortable (and quiet!).

Get an exped airbed. I've tried a lot of selfinflating mats, but i always end up blowing them up by mouth and than have les comfort sleeping than with the exped mats and be sorry i bought them. The investment in an exped is worth it, especially the air bag to blow them up is genius.

Look into exped insulated pads. They use insulation instead of the reflective inner layer other manufacturers are now using. Insulation instead of reflective layer is quieter, warm, but a bit heavier. Can’t stand the crinkly noise produced by reflective layer models.

That’s a legit complaint. Ive tried pads from every company and NONE has solved the noise caused by the sleeping bag sliding around on the pad. But the newer reflective tech layers that are inside the pads add an additional crinkling noise that the reflective layer makes when it moves. So yeah, the exped still makes noise but I find they’re less noisy than the reflective pads. I turn over nonstop all night long and am insanely sensitive to noise. I suspect pad reviewers who claim ANY current pad is silent probably aren’t turning over very much or are simply less sensitive to the noise. Overall, i find expeds less noisy.

I had a Tensor and it was uncomfortable for me as well. I’ve found Exped inflatable pads comfortable. My favorite right now though is the Neoloft.

I have an Exped. Not loud. And of them can make some noise sliding about on say tent floors, depending on the relative texture etc of the fabrics. Not way to know for sure until you try it. Or, more easily, just use something between them if it's an issue.

Support. I had a hole in my Exped, out of warranty, had to pay for shipping but they repaired it and shipped it back for free. Super nice of them.

My exped is a piece of magic.

My exped is really comfortable and warm

I've used it for about 80 days over several trips. It's a very robust build.

Same. OP, given that you have the space, I would recommend memory foam or something similar. I use a 6” trifold mattress, but in your case, given that you have the space and have trouble sleeping, I would recommend a normal one-piece mattress for you. If you do use the Exped, the secret is to adjust the air pressure. Everyone is different, but for me, if I let out air until my butt just barely touched the floor while sitting on it, that would be ideally comfortable (though not as comfortable as memory foam) when I laid down on it.

After various attempts of finding the right set up: Exped on top of a cot. Watch for REI sales for the Exped, and watch the garage sale area for the cot.

A sleeping pad is not the spot you sacrifice for the minuscule weight savings possible. I use an Exped mat that is like 4” thick, extra wide, XL, and insulated and I’m not even sure it’s heavier than the 1” Thermarest I used for 20 yrs prior.

I (64M) swear by my Exped. Not cheap but comfort in a relatively small package. It comes in a bag that can be attached to anything. YMMV

I (64M) always used a cot when camping. REI had Expeds on sale and I have read such good things about them, so I bought one. They are the best mattress for camping I have ever used. Even weighing 230lbs, side sleeper, I would have a tough time touching the ground through the mattress. They are quick to fill up with the enclosed hand pump and quick to deflate. They are light and I now prefer it over the cot that I have used for many years.

Megamat is a good choice. We have one and like it. Yes they can be punctured, but they’re expanding foam, not just air, and they’re easy to repair. They’re also warm when the weather is cold. We also have these for multi-day river trips, and I actually prefer them to the Exped. Sooooo comfy, and tough as nails. [Landing Pad](https://www.aire.com/product/30-landing-pads/) You can just strap them together with a cam strap. Either way, you’re right to abandon air mattresses.

We have expeds and they are awesome. At our heaviest using them I think one of us topped out about 215lbs and comfort wasn't compromised at all. We are both side sleepers. Hopefully someone closer in size to you will respond, but I hope that's slightly helpful! Add: I did just look and exped states their weight limit is 330. So maybe that might not be the best option.

I used to have a S2S pad and I really liked their baffle design. I replaced it with an exped but even though it’s thicker it doesn’t feel as good to me.

I'm heavier and shorter than you and side sleep on Exped mats just fine.

I really like my exped. I bought it on sale from REI and I still thought it was expensive but in retrospect it’s worth full price. I have [this](https://a.co/d/jbKmmg3) air pump and it works great. I have a double & single pad and have no issues getting them back in their storage bag. Not familiar with the other one you’re looking at fwiw.

Check REI Resupply for an Exped, they’re an excellent product but often returned because of user error

i have several Expeds and I don't think they're that loud at all.

I use an Exped, but then add a foam topper from Walmart cut to size for extra comfort. 

You've tested *all* of them? You find the Nemo more comfortable than an Etherlite XT? An REI Helix? An Exped? A Rapide SL? That doesn't compute for me. The Nemo is more comfy than a Neoair but well below all of those.

I have that Wellax pad. It was actually pretty great in 20 degrees for the first two trips. Then it stopped inflating fully. I just bit the bullet and switched to Exped.

Expeds CAN leak, but they're expensive and built really well. They're different from regular air mattresses because they have foam inside them which insulates you from the ground really well. Nemo makes a similar product. Exped also has great customer service (from what I've heard) and can patch your mattress if it gets holes.

If you have one nearby, REI has sleeping pads blown up you can lay on and test out. Everyones body and sleeping preferences are different. Once you figure out what kind of baffles you prefer, finding a sleeping pad will come easier as there are so many options. Especially if weight isn't an issue. I have a Nemo Tensor. It has quilted baffles. Everyone loves it, and it hurts my back and hips so bad. I also have an Exped pad and one from Zenbivy with vertical baffles. I love these. They cradle my body better. Thermarest is super popular. Most are horizontal baffles. They don't look comfy to me but it seems like people sleep well on them. Sea to Summit and Big Agnes are other popular sleeping pad brands. What kind of temps are you expecting? You'll want to choose a pad with an R value appropriate to your camping needs. Most choose a 3 season with an R value between 2-4. I would stick on the upper end if you're a cold sleeper.

I loved my Expeds before I got my camper. I now use a 6” memory foam mattress and wouldn’t be able to go back.

I have a couple exped mats and knock offs like Hikenture and Qomotop. They are not phony in the sense that the insulation ratings are way off. I camped in freezing temps for the last 5 years and am very toasty on every trip. I can't tell the difference in insulation properties between the brands. Only difference is the Exped breaks down much smaller than the knock offs.

Yep. Exped is almost as comfortable as our home mattress.

I brought my exped and put it on top of the mat provided by the tour operator. I’m glad I did because the ground was rocky and on cold nights I was happy to have the extra insulated layer.

Exped, thank me later

Voordeel van exped is de opbaaszak. Die werkt echt beter dan die van andere merken

Try the Nemo Tensor, the Exped pads, and the Big Agnes Rapide (heaviest, but thickest). You should be able to lay on all of these at an REI if you have one nearby. They should have all the most popular ones blown up and ready to try.

I've used my Exped for 500miles. I've never had a problem with it. Personally, I would only buy Exped or Big Agnes sleeping pads because they're the only ones I've never seen leak. Anything by thermarest is trash.

We put on exped on top of our air mattress.Gets us about 16 inches off the ground and it has a headboard so pillows don’t slide off. We’re car campers as well so we have room to pack some extras for comfort!

Exped 100%

Side sleeper. I use Exped. This is the main reason I haven't tried a Thermarest or Rab pad yet, no lengthways baffles. I love them and they can really help you stay on the pad if the ground is all over the place.

I’m not sure there’s a best one per se, there are a lot of equality pads out there and the one that best fits you and your needs might be the right choice for you. My favorite is Exped but I love my Nemo’s as well. My personal opinion tho is that you have nowhere to go but up. After fifty plus years of buying and using outdoor gear I can say that I actively despise only one brand, Klymit. And that’s all I have to say about that.

As often as you camp, I'd recommend investing in an Exped. The two single mats together is a cool idea too...to give you both independent spaces for movement, but still retaining proximity.

Yeah I have an exped but the only reason I got it is space is tight and I wanted something that fit under my seat. I love it though. 

Exped makes some great pads. I got mine for weight and pack size and it’s the most comfortable pad I own

Exped makes a great mat. But you might want to look at the thicker thermorest pads as an option as well

I love this pad! We got 2 from Costco years ago and one has a hole. We’ve upgraded to Exped and cots for car camping, but I would have gotten another one of these if they were still available. The Exped is definitely a bulky mattress style, though.

Always go wider than you think. It’s way more comfortable. Also the exped stuff is great with their layer of memory foam. I think they now have a single

My valve failed on the first trip I used it on. It's an easy fix to replace the valve, but still... Mind you, my Exped mat has never been the same since I camped in a prickle patch.

Dit is HET antwoord! Exped matten liggen geweldig, kan ik alleen maar aanbevelen. Het is alsof je thuis op je eigen bed ligt.

We use an air mattress cot and it works fine. We also have 2 expeds that we couple together and use on trips where we don’t need the under bed storage space of the cot. Someday we will figure out how to do expeds on a cot and then we’ll really be living!

My partner and I used to have the same problem where every time one of us moved, it felt like the other was on a trampoline 😂. Switching to a foam pad (we went with a double Thermarest, but I've tested an Exped before and it was great) made such a huge difference for our sleep.

The Exped is a game changer!

Get an exped and never think about comfort camping ever again.

Most comfortable is Exped by far. Not cheap though

Exped sleeping pads. I’ve had mine for 10 plus years and have insanely good R value.

Use Exped on my Coleman Cot - can confirm the 75-80% max inflation. Too hard and it feels like a spring ready to bounce you off if you roll over

+1 on the Exped but please get two singles. Don’t try sharing with your partner.

Exped is quiet and comfortable. It does not compete well on paper with neoair stuff, it is bulkier and heavier for the same warmth rating.

I have one Exped and one Therm-a-rest in this style. At first, they’re great. Over time, the Exped began to leak, and I think the TaR is now doing the same. As best I can tell, the rubber lining inside the fabric begins to slowly degrade and develop pinhole leaks. You never hear leaking air. You just wake up in the morning with your hip touching the ground (I’m a side sleeper). I stored both fully extended, with the valves open, so keeping them compressed in the sack was not the problem.

I agree with the Exped!

Love my exped and my paco pad. Paco pad is plastic welded memory foam and you will NOT touch the ground. i adore mine

This would be my pick as well, I'd just hook it to the outside of the pack. It's worth it for the sleep comfort.

Just slept on my Exped the other night. Super comfy, always a good night of sleep on it. Wish I'd bought it years ago.

Knockoff should be fine if you're ok with a much lower R rating. If you don't plan to camp below around 40⁰f then you'll be fine. I recently slept on my Exped, straight on the ground (but in a tent) at 15⁰f and had no issues with the cold.

Another vote for the Exped. HOWEVER, I freaking LOVE my UST Fillmatic and they have clips so you can connect two of them together. I’m 5’7” and my husband is 6’5”. When we shared a traditional air mattress, I was miserable. Everytime he flipped from side to side it bounced me around. When we have separate mattresses, I sleep much better. Just something else to chew on as you make your decision.

If you are camping a couple of times a month, I would absolutely consider investing in a better tent. It will make your lives easier. Yes, the convenience of the cheaper tents and being able to find them at any Walmart or bass pro shop around is nice, but you are at a heightened use. The features of a decently cheap REI tent will definitely help with sharing space inside a tent. Aside from that finding the right sleeping pads your bodies like is important. I found Exped pads to be my favorite. You can also try the micro cots.

Echoing what teddylexington said. Expeds are constantly in the re-supply and a pain in the ass to pack back up. Exped also has a limited warranty vs the Nemo roamer’s lifetime warranty. I can pack up a roamer by myself in 15 mins without breaking a sweat and it’ll be half the size of an exped.

unfortunately the site crashes on my Chrome Android Browser (Chrome 132.0.6834.122 / Android 13, Samsung S21 OneUI 5.1) When it comes to sleeping pads I only choose between Exped and Thermarest anyway. (still lots of choices from these two companies!)

I’ve had Thermarest, BA, Exped and Nemo Tensor and the Tensor is the best for me. Not as light as a NeoAir Xlite, but still respectable- I have a regular wide, more comfortable and I think warmer than any you mentioned. The REI Helix is also worth trying. Maybe buy both online and return the one you don’t like. If you don’t take it outside it would be considered a new return with tags and original packaging.

Exped are the best. In my opinion.

The Thermarest self inflating is rubbish. Just some thin foam that helps to expand and suck air into the pad. But you still need to inflate it further. My exped mat is filled in a minute with the pump sack.

I have bad discs in my neck and back, and can still side sleep on an Exped. They are a gamechanger for me.

Lost horizon is the same thing as exped. Probably same Chinese suppliers… I have lost horizon and we love it. It feels exactly the same as the expeds I’ve tried at REI.

Exped and Featherstone will work. They have vertical baffles and the other two are larger to help hold you in the mat. I have experience with Exped, but Featherstone is the more budget friendly of the two.

There are lots of better pads than this. Try Exped.

My exped is more comfortable than my normal bed.

I have a exped also and its more comfortable than my normal mattress.

I had an exped and it was fine. Then I got the Hest. Hest wins for me every time. It’s so comfortable.

I've been sleeping on my exped since June and I sleep so fucking comfortably every night. A real mattress is pretty high on my purchase list, but I'm honestly in no rush to upgrade

xped makes a great pad/mattress, it's kind of a cross between the two, mine has lasted for years