Trail Lite Self-Inflating Foam Sleeping Pad

I got the most basic pad working trail crew in 2008 o 09 and still have it today. Its rips & holes from cactus, ice axes, ski edges, and been slammed in a trunk a few times. Still works like a champ. It was $15.

Do the kids really need such a sleeping pad? Why not just some closed cell foam mats (e.g. Nemo Switchback or cheap clone) for them? I also wouldn’t be too sure that the Megamat is a cure-all. The girlfriend and I once had to sleep on some big inflatable guestbed mat thing which was horrible (especially with two people). To this day the most comfortable mat I know for me is the Therm A Rest Trail Lite since it has a flat surface (no ridges), is firm, doesn’t bounce, has a nice textured surface and makes no noises. Even though it’s “only” 3.8cm in thickness.

Thermarest still makes them? I have also seen knockoffs even in non specialty stores.  I have an older Thermarest Trail Lite and Trail pro. The only difference to the classic mats is a few cutouts to make them pack smaller. I adore my Trail Pro. Very comfy, good R value, thicker than the traditional pads, packs reasonably small for it's comfort. 

Have never needed to use their warranty. My Trail Lite is 10+ years, and is now my loaner pad for random people, or I bring it for my dog, and still in excellent shape. Meanwhile a friend who is neurotic about gear care has gone through 2 of the air pads in that time.  I did buy both of mine as clearance items, but maybe take a look at the Trail Scout? It looks like their most classic -and cheapest - version. 

Bigger than we need tent, two extra large thermarest deluxe pads with a 3” tempurpedic (queen size) topper. Regular sheets and pillows. I have figured out that if my wife is super comfortable, we go camping more often!! It takes up a lot of space, but feels totally worth it.

Thermarest trail is a great option. Has lasted me over 10 years now, no leaks. Only thing I’d change now is getting one slightly thicker.

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've had a self inflating Thermarest for about 30 years. I never camp without it and it still works great. Some years ago I had a canvas cover made for it. It's a disguise for when I go Civil War reenacting, and offers a layer of protection against brogans.