Christmas shopping help needed from someone who camps.

I don’t camp.

My daughter is asking for a "Lightweight sleeping bag pad in a medium size. If it can roll up nicely that would be great. "

Other than knowing that’s something kinda foamy that one puts under one’s sleeping bag, I don’t know how to pick. There’s a bewildering array of options on the Internet. I’d like to spend <$30. Can someone point me in the right direction?

Lightweight for < $30, you’re pretty much limited to a foam pad such as the ThermaRest Ridge Rest or ThermaRest Z-Lite, or even the old standard (and uncomfortable) blue foam pad. A self-inflating pad would be more comfortable and roll up smaller, but they’re a lot more expensive. Check out [u]REI[/u] for more choices than you’ll ever need.

under $30 is pretty low

sleeping pads have morphed a bit in the last few decades

the insul-mat seems to be liked, although a bit over budget

still using a mid 70s blue thing

It might help to know the intended use. If it’s only to be used for car-camping, a thicker, heavier pad would be more comfortable, but if she’s gonna be carrying it on her back for a backpacking trip, thinner and lighter would be desirable. (For instance, I own 4 different pads, each with a different environment in mind.)

what!!! you stay out overnight? :open_mouth:

My mother-in-law lives with us.

oh…yeah…forgot he did

been buying snow gear, eh!

Got an [u]Exped Downmat[/u], but I still need a warmer sleeping bag.

I try to avoid any products made in the last 30 years :laughing:

That explains your wardrobe…

Stopped using foam pads years ago, no durability, but great to cut up and use in the garden, under the car, the bike stand, the boat etc. I still use a first gen Thermarest with spider mat but have a whole inventory including seats for out-door concerts. Just broke out three of the biggest honkers for the family showing up tomorrow.

ah, yeah…

more like 40 there

Those look nice, bit of over kill with my old NF Ibex bag, I have a hard time finding weather cold enough for me to be comfortable.

ah NF Ibex!!!

that’s what I’ve got

unzip the thing and use it as a blanket
you can channel drafts,
leave bits out,
use it as a wind break
and all sorts of things!

Sail for a canoe! man! talk about flying!

You may also want to find out if a full mat is desired or a shorter head to hip mat.

A bit of old corrugated cardboard does just fine, and you ain’t gotta spend no $30 neither.

djm

try sierra trading post.

Lafuma Yellowstone Light 40°F Sleeping Bag - Mummy (For Women)
Our Price: $34.95 Retail: $49.95



Alps Mountaineering 20°F Sleeping Bag - Alpine Lake, Long, Mummy
Our Price: $49.95 Retail: $69.99

Their [u]current selection of pads[/u] is very limited, but they have one made by [u]Pacific Outdoor Equipment[/u] that’s within Dale’s specified budget, and another by the same manufacturer that’s just a bit over his price. I’ve never used a pad from POE, so I can’t speak as to their quality.

STP’s stock seems to turn over frequently. I’d check back every few days or so.