NEMO - Tensor Trail Ultralight Insulated Sleeping Pad

If I ever buy another inflatable pad, it'll be a [Nemo Tensor Trail](https://www.nemoequipment.eu/collections/sleeping-pads/products/tensor-trail-insulated-ultralight-sleeping-pad). Of all the inflatable options, it's simply the best blend of comfort/weight (assuming you avoid cold temps like I do) The horizontal baffles on the XLite are nowhere near as comfortable

+1 for the Nemo Tensor. After trying 5 or 6 different pads, I tried a Tensor. Within 3 seconds of laying on it, I knew my search was finally over

I also recommend the Nemo Tensor 25". I've tried half a dozen expensive pads and the Nemo Tensor is better, by far. A good quality pillow goes a long way to increasing sleep comfort. I can't remember the brand I have, I've had it for 4 or 5 years, but it's got a soft microfiber cover and an elastic strap that goes around your pad to keep it in place. This is much more comfortable than a stuff sack with a pants and shirt in it. Or your backpack, which is what I used to use. It's well worth the little bit of extra weight IMO

I've been using my Nemo Tensor for 6 years. I had to patch a small pinhole (it was entirely my fault that the hole got there) 3 years ago. It's still going strong

I’m a side sleeper and went from the Tensor to the Thermarest neo air. The tensor is crazy noisy and if you flip from side to side like I do it’ll wake you and anyone you sleep near up. It’s really loud to me. The Thermarest is way quieter, has a higher r value and I’ve been pretty comfortable side sleeping on it in a zenbivy quilt and sheet. Seems a bit counter intuitive, but sometimes I find that I’ve made it too firm after a few hours and I just reach up and let a bit of air out if I’m feeling any discomfort and go right back to sleep.

I'm a side sleeper and I've never had an issue with inflatable pads of at least 3 inches. The tensor is my main pad and I sleep rather comfortably. Another surprisingly good option is the flextail air mattress. Good height from the ground and tall side rails. Comes standard with r value over 5. Weighs in at less than 520 grams (for the mummy style pad, rectangle is a bit heavier) but had a height of 3.9 inches. They're x-Large pillow paired with that mattress was fantastic as a side sleeper. Even if you go with another pad, I recommend checking out their pillow. Plus I think it's on sale right now.

I'm in the exact same boat! I've been very happy with the tensor insulated and finally realized I needed a taller pillow. Like others have remarked I usually end up putting a bottle or something under my pad to add some additional height.

insulated nemo tensor long/wide. 5.4 R value

I have both pads, notice no difference in comfort, and sleep equally well on either one. Guess I’m just an easy sleeper - certainly after a long hike!

have you tried NEMO Tensors? Trail, Trail Ultralight, or Extreme Conditions - all pack down to 10x4in, 1lb 1oz to 1lb 4oz. 3.5in thick so very comfy for me as a restless side sleeper with hip problems! smaller/lighter than the sea to summit Ether Light XT Extreme i was using.

have you tried NEMO Tensors? Trail, Trail Ultralight, or Extreme Conditions - all pack down to 10x4in, 1lb 1oz to 1lb 4oz. 3.5in thick so very comfy for me as a restless side sleeper with hip problems! smaller/lighter than the sea to summit Ether Light XT Extreme i was using.

My Tensor squeaked loudly on my tent's floor I came up with a super light fix, the lightest gauge poly tarp painters drop sheet, cut to size. It's only 23g, \~ 1/3 the weight of a thinlight

I have a Nemo Tensor Insulated (Reg rectangle) and absolutely love it. It's super comfortable, I haven't found it to be noisy at all, and it's quite light.

I can’t comment on the others but I have had a Tensor Insulated for a few years and absolutely love it. I’m a side sleeper and I’ve used it down to 30F and it gets the job done but that’s about its limit. If I were going to be in temps consistently that low I’d put foam under it.

No it has a good baffle structure. Amazing for its weight. I inflate it, then let bits of air out so that my shoulder is about an inch off the ground when I’m on my side and then it’s perfect for the night.

I love my NEMO Tensor.

Big fan of my Nemo Tensor UL. I’m a side sleeper as well but 5’9” 160lbs. How much is pack weight a concern for you?

Tensor is nice and quiet, and for me at least quite comfy with a little air let out. Between my wife and I we have three versions, and if you’re really going to go down to 30F I’d say get the xtreme version. The summer and all season version will help down that low, but are noticeably colder sleeping at those temps.

Tensor Insulated Wide for me (can't stand narrow pads) and yeah, it's a bit noisy, but the insulation is worth it and it's so comfy!

I love the nemo tensor. Started out with the short mummy version to save on weight (and it was discounted). Now I use the regular wide for that extra comfort, I'm a big guy and a side sleeper, foam and self inflating pads cause too much hip pain.

Just got my regular mummy Nemo tensor all season and fully agree. 22" at the shoulder that tapers down to the same size as currently at the feet or even slightly smaller would be ideal for me

I hope the latest versions deliver on their promised improvements. My Nemo Tensor from ~2020 hasn't shown to be very durable, though it is comfortable.

Love my ultralight Nemo pad, and when I ultimately punctured it, the company sent me a new one no questions asked.

Nemo Tensor insulated wide ultralight, very comfortable, quieter than some others, packs light and small

I've had great luck with the Nemo Tensor Ultralight and Fillo pillow. 100% game changer for me

I have the nemo tensor insulated ultralight pad and I love it. I’ve taken it on a few trips and it’s warm, light, comfy, and I haven’t had any issues with popping or tears. I like to move around a lot when I seep and it always seems to be comfortable in whatever position I’m in (as much as a pad can). I highly recommend it. For colder trips I put a $30 foam pad underneath it. I think buying the $30 foamer and tossing it under an inflatable pad is the way to go. It increases the r value. Makes your sleeping system more modular. And protects your sleeping pad from sharp rocks or sticks.

+1 for Nemo tensor, I have the insulated version. Fantastic.

I use mine with a GG 1/8 “ pad below and haven had a problem I came off a tensor wide long all season so it was a bit to get use to the narrow width (I am a big guy @ 6’2” 265lbs) It gets the job done and doesn’t weigh shit.

This pad is worlds more comfortable than the fully inflatables and it has a good r-value (5.1). I returned the Nemo tensor everyone loves so much and replaced it with this and I think it was well worth it. Yes, the weight and packability are worse, but I just can’t find an inflatable that is comfortable enough for me to think the weight/size savings are worth it.

I think it is. I always clear my chosen tent spot of rocks, twigs, debris and such before I set anything up. My tensor lasted my hike over the span of two years and is still going strong. It definitely never hurts to have something under it for extra protection and piece of mind though. An added bonus is that it’ll stop your pad from sliding around in your tent if you’re not on a totally flat spot. I used a lightweight microfiber towel (my luxury item, I swam a lot) for that.

I’m a side sleeper as well and I stopped using my Nemo tensor so much because of the potato chip bag noise effects heh. This past winter, I’ve used the Sea to Summit comfort plus. It is easily the most comfortable pad I’ve ever used for side sleeping. And inflates and deflates easily. Highly recommend!

I've had a broken spine and pelvis so I researched and tested a lot for a sleeping pad. Any thick self inflating pad was either WAY too heavy, bulky, or had bad reviews... So I ended up with a Nemo Tensor. I know you prefer self inflating but I'd give this pad a try, maybe go to a store and lay on it. I find it quiet, warm, and supportive. I sleep all night and no body aches.

I second this! I recently switched to a zenbivy ultralight mattress, and I slept so comfortably, especially as a side sleeper. I previously owned a Nemo Tensor. It was okay, but I should have gotten it wide. I don't toss and turn, but my mind is more at ease if there's a little extra space, lol. That's a great idea using the nemo pad pump sack because the zenbivy pump sack does suck. I personally use a flextail pump for an extra 4.3oz, but I'll use the nemo pump sack next time!

Love my Exped 5R but learned the expensive way, 1st bought a Klymit Static V for $60 on sale (r rating is not real and the valve broke after 1 year) then Nemo Tensor (love it unless I’m camping with my partner in which case the crinkling chip bag sound kept them awake all night) and finally tried the Exped and now I don’t use anything else!

Tensor has failed me too many times. They’re comfortable but not very durable it seems. Or I’m just unlucky.

Any of the Nemo Tensor line is great and not loud and Zen Bivy also makes really good pads as well. That will likely be the next one I buy.

I just layed in the helix yesterday at REI lol, it felt like a normal pad imo. Nothing crazy but not terrible. I use the Nemo Tensor and love it

Sea to Summit Ether Light XT Insulated and Nemo Tensor are both widely regarded as The most comfortable pads. I have or tried both and they're great.

Nemo Tensor did the trick for me. Comes in multiple sizes. Had multiple hip surgeries and never thought I could sleep outside and on my side again, and this proved me wrong.

I like my nemo tensor

Nemo tensor with a classic foam pad underneath. The tensor has a micro adjust valve to that allows you to adjust the pressure to what works for your body. I think most people think pads should always been fully inflated (myself included for years). Using that micro adjust valve to release some air while you’re laying on the pad is a serious game changer. Allows the pad to contour to your body versus feeling like a hard bed.

Been running a Nemo tensor for years. Not sure the exact thickness, but I’m a side sleeper and it’s always treated me right. They come in all sorts of sizes online. The micro pressure release valve really comes in handy because you can lay on it while you adjust the pressure down to what works for your body. BUT the real side sleeping game changer I’ve discovered in the last year is a sleeping bag that attaches to the pad. It’s made a huge difference in my sleep quality. When rolling from side to side you don’t get twisted in the bag. It all just floats over you as you rearrange. Also seems to prevent drifting off the pad when you’re on uneven ground. Got a backless version of a 10 degree Big Agnes bag at a used gear store and it’s been great. Mesh pillow holder included. Highly recommend it.

This is great advice on the inflation level of the pad. I am a hammock camper and sleep with a Tensor pad inflated to about 70% when in the hammock. I sleep with the Tensor pad instead of an underquilt so I have the option to sleep in a shelter if the weather is especially bad of if I am coming into camp later than normal. The deflation of the pad when sleeping in the shelter greatly improved my sleep comfort.

I thruhiked with a veteran who had his spine reassembled after an incident with an ied. He used a very thick self-inflating pad that was bed-comfortable and weighed about 2.5lbs. If it were my back I'd look for comfort first and damn the weight. Of the UL pads, the Sea To Summit Aether Lite XT insulated is the most comfortable, followed by the nemo tensor and pads from Exped. If you can find the aether lite in women's mummy, the weight is in spitting distance of the neoair xlite.

6' 2" and a bit heavier, also side sleeper. I have a Nemo tensor and REI mahma quilt and love them. 

Counterpoint: my Nemo Tensor failed 2 days into the JMT. I had about 20 previous nights on it. It developed a leak in a seam between baffles on the underside. I switched to a zlite out of necessity after a few too many cold nights on the ground. I think I’m back on the foam pad train after years of inflatables. The stress and discomfort of dealing with a (relatively) quickly deflating pad every night was not pleasant and I’m not eager to relive it. I get foam pads aren’t for everyone, but since I don’t do many cold weather trips I think I’m (re)converted.

I used a Nemo Tensor previously for weight savings which sure works great in the back woods. Took it car camping once and was just miserable knowing I didn’t need the weight savings. Bought the megamat and it was a game changer for car camping. Never slept so good in a tent.

For backpacking, I have had a Nemo Tensor (I got it for $125) for a few years now. It's WAY warmer than cheaper pads, packs down to the size of a Nalgene, super light (~14oz). Even getting a good, actually insulated, inflatable mattress is better for car camping. I picked up a cheap queen size from Sierra Designs for like $60, and my butt is finally warm.

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.

Haven't slept on many different mats. I have a Nemo Tensor and hate it. I also have a Zenbivy light mat, the one with vertical baffles, and I sleep better on it. It has like matting in it instead of the reflective film and it just feels more cushion-y to me. Very warm. 24 oz for the 25 inch

Sleeping bag won't do anything for comfort while laying down. A good pad is what you want. Sea to Summit Ether XT Light, followed by Nemo Tensor, are my recommendations. Pillows are more forgiving. Wife and I use the Therm-a-rest ones.

I think any of the inflation pads will be pretty similar (as opposed to self inflating that are typically thinner). So Thermarest NeoAir NXT, Nemo Tensor, plus those already listed. Circa 3 inches thick to allow the hip to stay off the ground, and a square shape rather than mummy.

Have you tried any of them? Your local REI would at least have the Helix. I too had that on my shortlist and when I tried it I didn’t like it, I found I bottomed out too easily when moving and side sleeping. Like when I laid flat I’d be a couple mm off the ground, but then shifting too much weight to my hips would have me touch the ground. Again, it was fine and pretty comfy when my weight was fully distributed. My point is go and try them. I ended up going with a Nemo Tensor.

I had durability issues with multiple attempts at the Tensor, but that was before they upgraded the materials somewhat. I kinda wanna try the new Elite just because of the insane weight.

I had a Nemo Tensor straight POP with a one-inch tear from a extremely tiny burr on the edge of my quilt pad strap!

I'm a "rotisserie" side sleeper, too, and the winners for me at the S2S Ether Light XT and the Nemo Tensor lines. I can't really tell the difference in comfort between them since they're similar designs. Just as another note, I'd suggest incorporating good sleep practices into your hiking, too! I'm in my 40s, so it's tougher to get a good night's sleep than it used to be. My body needs time to relax, so I need 3-4 hours after hiking to decompress. Make a bit of decaf tea, watch some videos or journal. Then eat dinner, take electrolyte supplements & low-dose THC edibles, and put on compression socks (I wear Vim & Vigr and like their designs). It's a whole ritual that helps calm my body down and prepare me for sleep.

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 used the Nemo Tensor year around 110° to 25° for a long time. I’ll throw a 1/8” gossamer pad under it during the winter though. I find it comfy and it’s pretty quiet. Just swapped to Zenbivy and will never buy another sleeping pad.

I typed this out initially but it seems like it got deleted. I have a nemo tensor that is similar comfort but way smaller and lighter so people naturally give me crap for rolling out something akin to a home mattress at camp. But hey I sleep great on it.

Big Agnes Rapide SL 25x72 is my recommendation. It was super comfy, much quieter than the tensor, and kept me warm and stayed inflated throughout the night. I initially took a nemo tensor out to the southwest for 4 nights of camping - the pad was defective and deflated very slowly over the course of the night. Coupled with being as loud as a bag of sun chips whenever you move on it meant that my partner had to deal with the obnoxious rustling and sound of reinflating for 3/4 nights. Got fed up and bought a rapide SL and finally had one good night of camping rest.

I just finished spending a week on a Nemo Tensor and it’s cool so far. I got it on Marketplace used like new for $100. I came from a Sleepingo off Amazon and the Tensor definitely retains heat better and has much better support. It feels air mattress thick coming from the cheap ultralight pad. It’s crinkly. There’s survival blanket type material in there. That said I’m happy. Definitely not looking for a new pad.

Nemo tensor

Me too

I foundmy nemo doing this.

I love my Nemo Tensor and use it year round. As for bag I have a zenbivy light quilt that is great for temperature flexibility. Mine is rated for 25F and works for me late spring through early fall. The new 2025 ones have a 10F option which will extend the usability. In the summer you can just use it as a light blanket and then sinch it up like a bag when the weather cools.

The Nemo Tensor has been a game changer for me. It wasn't cheap but it is light, easy to inflate with the inflation sack, and the most comfortable pad I've slept on and it doesn't lose air. I think sleeping pads are really specific to the person though in terms of what feels best and holds up best as there is a lot of variety in sleeping position, body sizes and relative tossy-turniness.

I'm really skeptical of the advertised R-Value on these pads from Chinese brands. I think they have found a way to get a pad to test to a really high value, but doubt it will actually perform in the real world to that value (like the Zoom UL). The setup of the R-Value test is a little different than actual real-world use. JustinOutdoors tested a bunch of new cheap mid-to-high R-Value pads and I believe he reported that most seemed to perform below what was advertised. Do you even need R9 in the winter? I've never heard of anyone cold on an X-Therm and it's R7.3. Personally, I'm always carrying an R2 foam pad in the winter anyway, so I'd rather take the weight penalty and combine it with my Nemo Tensor AS for a total of R7.5, and the foam pad serves multiple functions (sit pad, pad to stand on when changing clothes or shoes, safety backup if the inflatable has a leak, etc).

Nemo Tensor. Not self inflating, but they blow up fast with the bag included. I'm a side sleeping and need the 3" it provides.

Yup, I'm 62 and it is wonderful.

I have previous generation NeoAir Xlite and XTherm pads (with the older valve that looks like a small black cylinder protruding from the pad. The XLite has a bit of that "potato chip bag" crinkle which I think has gotten better in the newer models. In terms of comfort, my Nemo Tensor is WAY more comfortable, but my first Nemo Tensor failed when it kept getting little holes where the dimples are located. The NeoAir XTherm is AWESOME for warmth. I took mine on my Mt Baker climbing/mountaineering class in mid July 2024 and it was great there, and I didn't seem to mind the comfort as much. Maybe I was just tired at the end of each day and didn't care! I have a Kilos AeroCloud Ultra on the way to try and compare, which will probably be my wife's pad when we go to Iceland this summer to hike the Laugavegeur. She has lower back issues and keeping her on a comfortable pad is very important. We're always trying to strike a balance between comfort and weight for her gear. I think the Rapide SL is another good pick. Hard to know which of all these options are the best.

Current best on market imo is the Nemo Tensor. 3.5 thick 5.4 r value and still only weighs 15oz. Uses 20D nylon and has been very durable for me

I really like my Nemo tensor. I side sleep and it doesn't bottom out on me. Good warranty too

Dude. I purchased a tensor from REI. The VERY first night I had it camping it was leaking. Had to top it off every 2 hours. SHITE. On a side note, my terribly annoying and crinkly-sounding Therm-a-rest NeoAir Uberlight lasted 2 years before a terminal leak at the seam.

I slept on a neoair it was uncomfortable and noisy I switched to a Nemo tensor not even in the same realm of comfort. I also have a sea to summit ether light xt and it's heavy but best pad comfort I have slept on.

Tensor is better for sound Neo Air sounded like sleeping on a empty bag of chips. I hear the newer versions are better. Comfort Neo air has horizontal baffles that are nice but collapse if any weight near edge Nemo Tensor has a box baffle I like much more. Weight Neo Air wins but not by a landslide unless we talk about the Neo Air Uberlite I have not purchased due to my bad experiences with Neo Air and my base weight being around 7 Lbs I can give a little room to comfort.

I’m heavyset and getting old with back injuries to boot. I sleep really well on the tensor, better than I thought possible in the woods.

I used the Nemo Tensor and then switched to Big Agnes Divide. Thicker and got better sleep (side and back sleeper).

I wouldn't touch a Helix with a 10-foot pole. The thermal welds throughout the pad are a poor design carried over from the REI Flash pads. Sometimes from the pressure created by body weight these welds peel apart slightly creating a micro-tear that of course leaks. The Nemo Tensor has similar welds. I just repaired a friend's Nemo pad that had a difficult-to-find small leak at a micro-tear at one of these welds. That is these leaks do not happen because something sharp poked a hole. Here is a photo of my old REI Flash pad with some repairs shown: https://i.imgur.com/imj5JYy.jpg

Best pad I’ve ever slept on. Returned a tensor after it failed on first use. The extra weight is well worth the higher durability and extra comfort IMO.

The Nemo Tensor is quite comfortable imo. The real answer is that comfort is pretty subjective, and the best route is for you to go to REI or similar and lay on a bunch of different pads.

just switched from an old Nemo Tensor for a similar reason - i was never able to deflate it to a comfortable point without my butt touching the ground below; instead i always slept on it "overfilled" which led to lower back pain almost every night. recently switched to the S2S Ether Lite XT Insulated and it's a great option! not only is the extra thickness very comfy, but the "quilted" design really seemed to minimize pressure points unlike other pads' architectures (e.g. horizontal baffles of Nemo, Thermarest, and similar)

I used the S2S Ultralight Insulated for years, just recently switched to the Nemo Tensor and it’s awesome! So much comfier and I saved weight going from a S2S long wide to a regular wide in the tensor. They also have the same valve system as S2S and it comes with an inflating pump sack.

have you used an air mattress before? its different and of course you have the worry that you could pop it during your trip. i dont find it that long to deflate and roll up that said i use a nemo tensor and have been happy with it. whichver way you go consider getting a wider one like 25" for more comfort.

Not self-inflating and won't accommodate your dog width-wise but hear me out. I'm the side sleepers of side sleepers. If it's not paramount that it can accommodate your dog width-wise and you're ok with taking 5 deep breaths - I know you're a big guy so I understand if that's not a possibility - look into the Nemo Tensor. They come in different lengths for bigger people. I'm a bigger guy (250 pounds) and a side sleeper as I said and the Nemo Tensor is amazing for me. It won't accommodate your dog width-wise but he could probably sleep between your legs if you really wanted him to. It comes with this "vortex" bag that will inflate the pad really quickly. I'm amazed at how well it works. 5 or so breaths and it's filled. It's extremely light and compact, basically the size and weight of a water bottle. It is the most comfortable inflatable mat I've ever slept on. We have frequent "yard camping" trips in our bumpy front lawn and I honestly get as good a night's sleep on this as I do on my bed, side sleeping and all. It's a bit more expensive but if you're an REI member (and if you're not and one is near you sign up if only for this purchase, I think it's $20) get this. If you sign up you can return it no questions asked. As a side sleeper I was searching for the best mat and this is it.

I had a Nemo tensor, but it popped on me.  Now I use the klymit static V

I have a NEMO tensor and would second this, totally reliable.

Have multiple inflatables and multiple foam including a foam self inflating. I prefer the foam for both comfort and reliability. Not sure why but I just don't sleep good on the inflatables despite the hype. I still frequently used my Nemo Tensor because it was so space efficient until it let me down in a big way and I spent 3 nights freezing my ass off this April. It was too slow of a leak to locate and patch. I now carry a thermarest z-light and couldn't be happier.

I’m going to add that bringing some kind of repair kit for an inflatable mattress is something I wish that I had done. I had a nemo tensor that has popped twice, once a complete unrepairable blow out because I over inflated, and the other time I’m going to blame my dog for (but mostly myself because I used an inflatable with a dog in my tent.) I did carry the included patch kit with my mattress, but it came with 2 patches and I had 3 holes. My brother suggested wrapping some gorilla glue tape around my trekking pole for emergencies like this, I’m going to test it out with my busted pad just to see if it would work. Side note, if anybody reads this and has a suggestion for an indestructible sleeping pad that gives more cushion than egg shell foam, I’d love to hear it. I’m a side sleeper and a princess, so if there’s a unicorn pad out there, let me know. If someone invited an inflatable/hybrid foam, I would give you my money immediately. Like right now, I would skip my mortgage payment and give that money to you.

I've been trying different sleeping pads the last few years and still haven't found one that works. I've tried the Nemo tensor, thermarest neoair xlite nxt, and REI helix. I always end up switching between side sleeping and back sleeping multiple times during the night. I've noticed the nxt (my current pad) has been giving me lower back sores. I can reduce it a little by deflating the bag. But I've deflated it to the point my shoulder touches the ground during side sleep. Anybody else have this issue with another pad recommendation? I would like to keep it around 20 oz or less for a wide version. Thanks!

Nemo tensor. I went with the alpine long wide.

I’ve had the Nemo tensor for a couple years. Love it. And I think they’ve even made some slight improvements since then. It uses an inflator bag and inflates easily/quickly. Packs small, light weight. And pretty quiet. And down the road you can grab a FlexTail Zero inflator, if you prefer. It’s really nice just pushing a button and coming back a couple minutes later to fully inflated pad. Like others have said, recommend getting the wide version for comfort. Really makes a difference. It comes with some patches but I’ve never needed them. Just be careful with it and it’ll last a long time.

I did that with my couple year old Nemo Tensor on my ‘22 hike. The Tensor of that era had a reputation for being a bit fragile. I did over 1800 miles with it on the GG ⅛” pad and had no leak issues. I’ve used it for a few years since then and only developed a slow leak this summer. I really think the ⅛” pad helped!

We use a normal.air mattress about 11" tall I think. And then we put a foam mattress topper on it. It's not thick like memory foam (not hot like memory foam either) it's not Anton of cushion. But it's enough to not feel like a plastic airbed. I find it quite comfortable, and I'm a 6'4" guy over 40, which usually means normal people gear is under-engineered for me. I have nice Nemo tensor sleeping pads, but I'd take this setup way over any sleeping pad I've ever tried. With the right inflation (just enough give) I sleep about as well as an average non-luxury mattress. Definitely need to bring decent pillows from home though. Pillows are most important for me as a side sleeper.

I'm also a big guy and side sleeper and I like the Nemo Tensor as well, but just so you're aware OP, it is very noisy.

I have a Thermarest Pro trail Lite that seems to work well. I have probably 2000 miles on it. I use a close foam mat under it too. I have a Nemo Tensor that I am going to try this season. I got it out of the discount / return bin at REI for like half price.

ccf pad cut down to size for the doggo, and an inflatable pad (xlite or tensor) for you next to it -- or get used to sleeping on ccf pads too if that wouldn't be good enough and she couldn't be taught to accept it

I had the same problem with the rapide so switched to a Nemo Tensor and as long as I don't over inflate it I sleep like a baby

I've been using the nemo tensor all season pad. It has an r value of 5.4. I've used it on below freezing nights and it has worked well for me. It also packs down really small.

In November I went to a store and blew one up new and laid on it on the showroom floor. It was comfortable but sounded like a loud squeaky balloon. Every time I shifted weight or switched sides it was loud. Even someone walking by looked at me and said “that’s really noisy”. Because of this I bought the Nemo Tensor which is much quieter than the Sea to Summit.

I never ever regret spending decent sums of cash on my camping gear - it’s an investment in my hobby and it lasts me years to decades cause I take care of it. If I’m backpacking my primary concerns for a sleeping pad are weight, pack size, R-Value and comfort. A pool float isn’t going to be as insulating light or pack down as small as my Nemo Tensor so it would be an automatic no for me. But if it works for you then go for it.

I go Nemo Tensor, its the most comfy sleeping pad in existence (my opinion) but ive done SAR and backpacked since I was 15. On snow you use a foam pad underneath the inflatable

I had a rapide sl but now I have a Nemo tensor which I find more comfortable and it's lighter

They do 3 versions. The one I've got is 4.2 r value which is great for 3 seasons. They do a winter one as well+ a 2 season one

I had back surgery 10 years ago and had two discs removed, so I'm held together with plates and pins. I'm 54 and have had a few sleeping pads and finally settled on the Nemo tensor, before that I had the big Agnes rapide sl and was still waking up sore. With the Nemo I wake up great. But it's a personal thing, try to borrow one before you commit and try a few

I’m a backpacker, but I’m also a pilot flying with a USFS Rappel crew this season. Most of them are carrying some flavor of Big Agnes air mattress style sleeping pads. If you wanted some extra protection for underneath, you could get a GG thinlight pad for underneath, or cut yourself a piece of Tyvek to use as a ground sheet. Personally I use a Nemo tensor. I’ve never put anything under it other than my tent floor, but I’ve also never cowboy camped with it, so I can’t comment on its durability over bare ground.

My first one had a pinhole leak but replaced it and my new one has been super solid the last three years

I'm a back sleeper and find that the dimpled baffling systems on the Helix and S2S pads tend to be the most comfortable. Nemo Tensor is the next most comfy, and Thermarest horizontal baffles are the least comfortable for me. Can't comment on the Expeds as I haven't tried them.

I had a back surgery about a year ago as well for a herniated disc in my lower back and now use either my BA zoom or Nemo Tensor. Both are the largest sizes and seem to give me enough support to not wake up in pain. I make sure they are at the max inflation as well. For a pillow I use a large S2S Aeros down pillow and stick it onto the pad with those free velcro pieces S2S will send you if you ask customer service. Another thing I have been experimenting with is using a running vest style pack with no hip belt. I found that the hip belt would transfer the weight right into my injured area and just make it all worse. I'm currently using an Ultimate Direction Fastpack 40L bag. I'll also be carrying a 1lb chair to help destress my back during the day. The nature of back injuries are so personal that idk if this will help you but this has been my approach to stay on the trails. Best of luck!

Ha, same. Started with the 'ol cheapo Klymit Static V, moved to the small mummy Therm-a-Rest XLite NeoAir for a couple years, then figured I'd get a wide to see if that helped with side sleep comfort so my butt and knees weren't off the edges (& went extra warm because may as well eliminate redundancies) with the Therm-a-Rest XTherm in reg wide. No dice. Tried a friend's Nemo Tensor, and wasn't for me. Tried the large women's Sea to Summit Comfort Light Insulated air - dimples felt odd and was too thin; no better than my old mummy xlite for overall comfort even with the wider shape. Running out of budget to throw in for the S2S Ether Light XT test and given my experience with the Comfort Light, wasn't convinced it was the move. Still haven't tried vertical baffles like the Expeds, and maybe that'd do fine, but instead just went all in on the reg wide chonky Neoloft... and good god. With that soft knit stretch top, slept a like the coziest dreamy log for 8.5 hours first time I took it out (and then 6 the next, but only thanks to a disruptive woodpecker. Nature!) I hesitate to mention/recommend it here as it kinda undermines the whole forum topic (ultralight) with its extremely-not-ultralight weight. But packs just as small as my reg-wide XTherm and as a bike camper, pack size matters more than strictly weight so I'm sticking with it.

I have the tensor and the REI higher R value version. The tensor rolls up smaller than a 32 oz Nalgene- they're both great for comfort, warmth, and space in pack.

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

For me, only the S2S Ether Lt XT and the Nemo Tensor work. Horizontal baffles are a nightmare with the "slipping off" feeling and movement! I sleep on my side and stomach and sometimes back, and those two work great.

For me the S2S works where others don’t work. I find horizontal baffles extremely uncomfortable … it feels as if anything closer to the edge falls down and doesn’t give any support. So for me the S2S works for longer trips and for shorter I use a short version of the Nemo Tensor.

Agree. I have Nemo tensor and S2S Ether Lt xt because I find horizontal baffles very uncomfortable.

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.

Side sleeper checking in... In my search for something more comfortable, I tried the Zenbivy Ultralight mattress and I've been super happy with it however I sleep but mostly on my side. It's quiet too. My previous pad was the Nemo Tensor and it works pretty well too but I feel the zenbivy is easily more comfortable for me. Only negative is the pump sack that comes with it. It's surely convenient also being the stuff sack but it's small and I don't use a stuff sack for my pad anyway so I just use the pump sack I got with the tensor.

Contrarian view - had a Tensor, it leaked out of the box. Had a standard Neo air - it leaked after a handful of weekends, wasn't quite plush enough for me. I used an XTherm for the last 1,000 miles of the AT in overnight temps from 25 to 85F and slept fine. Have had it out on snow and slept fine. Heavier, sure, but sturdier. Arguably quieter than the Neoair.

I’ve loved my Nemo tensor for the end of my trip. Ridiculously small, and has survived many nights so far.

Have not had to use the warranty knock on wood, but have been really happy with my tensor as well. I too side sleep part of the night, and it's great not waking up with a sore shoulder from being direct on the ground in the past with my therma rest lite.

Definitely try deflating a little bit first, but it's hard to sleep on any of these inflatable pads. Did you get the wide mummy version or max version so you can rest your arms a bit? I personally found the Nemo Tensor to be the most comfortable but don't trust them for quality at all. The Exped 5R is pretty comfortable with vertical baffles but it's quite heavy at over 20oz for the 72x20 model. (The NeoAir NXT mummy wide is bigger and only 16oz)

Nemo tensor was def my most comfortable pad, but I don't trust them for reliability at all. Just so many field failures that I've seen on here and other places.

Agreed, and it doesn't take up much space when rolled up