Next month, I’m heading out on a week-long car camping trip, and I’ve been advised to prepare for temperatures as low as 15°F. Originally, I planned to use my old Kylmit Insulated pad (good down to about 30°F) with a Thermarest foam pad underneath. However, my Kylmit has developed a tiny, elusive pinhole leak. After a disappointing experience with a replacement Kylmit that developed the same issue, I’m ready to try a different brand. I’ll be stopping by REI later today—any suggestions on what I should look for?
For car camping, consider a self-inflating pad; they offer comfort and high R-values. The REI Campwell pad, for example, has an R-value of 7, suitable down to nearly 0°F. You could even add a Z-foam pad underneath to push the R-value to about 8.5. I’ve used this setup down to 5°F and was quite comfortable. The Exped Megamat, Hest foam bed, or Nemo Roamer are also excellent choices, providing a bed-like feel.
Pat said:
I’ve had similar issues with Klymit. Try the Thermarest Neoair Xtherm or Xlite; I’ve used an Xlite for four years without any leaks.
I second the Xlite recommendation. It’s compact, warm, and durable. I used it during a 4-week road trip from Alaska to NC, sleeping in the back of my car, and it performed wonderfully.
Consider getting a patch kit. Inflate the pad and submerge it in water to locate the leak. For car camping, focus on pads with high R-values rather than ultra-light options.
Be wary of Klymit’s advertised R-values, which have been misleading. For temperatures down to 15°F, look for a pad with an R-value of 6 or higher. Brands like Exped, Nemo, and Thermarest have reliable options. Don’t forget to ensure your sleeping bag or quilt is rated for 0°F or lower for comfort. Since it’s Black Friday weekend, now’s a good time to find deals. Also, keep an eye on potential tariff impacts on prices.
Jai said: @Alden
My budget is under $200, ideally closer to $150. Any specific recommendations?
For car camping, the Exped MegaMat 10 LXW is excellent, currently on sale for just under $200 with a coupon. Alternatively, the ALPS Mountaineering Outback Mat is a budget-friendly option at around $93 after discounts at REI. Make sure to pick up a suitable pump, like the FlexTailGear TinyPump, to easily inflate these mats.
Klymit pads are poorly insulated for cold weather. Combining a Klymit with a foam pad might not be sufficient for 15°F. Look for something with a combined R-value of at least 4 for better insulation.
For a lightweight setup, I use a Nemo Tensor insulated with a Thermarest Z fold underneath. It’s effective down to the teens and light enough for backpacking. For no space constraints, an Exped Megamat paired with a high-quality sleeping bag and quilt ensures warmth and comfort in extreme conditions.
Sea to Summit suggests an R-value of at least 5 for temperatures below freezing. I’ve experienced significant differences in comfort between pads with R-values of 2.8 and 15 in cold conditions.