Last updated on 29 Sep, 2023
What To Put Under an Air Mattress When Camping? - 5 Best Things
– By Eric Smith
What to put under an Air Mattress when camping? You are in the woods and want to have a good night’s sleep. But, you are hesitating to inflate your air mattress on that bumpy or uneven ground. Don’t worry, we have working solutions for this.
By putting something under your air mattress while sleeping, you have the authority to tackle many issues, such as air mattress sliding issues or if you want to give it some protection against bumpy or uneven ground. It’s like giving your camping adventure a VIP pass to a world of coziness.
Whether it’s a camping pad, foam mattress topper, or even nature’s own bedding, like leaves or pine needles, we’re going to cover them all in this guide so you don’t need to look anywhere else for this issue. Let’s dive in.
Why Put Something Under Your Air Mattress?
Well, it’s all about making your outdoor bedtime as comfortable as possible. Imagine you’re in the wilderness, under the open sky, and you’re ready to call it a night on your air mattress.
Now, the ground beneath you can be uneven, rocky, or chilly. That’s where putting something under your air mattress can change the game.
Firstly, it adds a layer of comfort. Camping is all about enjoying nature, but that doesn’t mean you need to sacrifice your peaceful sleep. Placing something soft underneath, like a camping pad or foam mattress topper, can make your bed feel like a cloud amidst the rugged terrain.
Secondly, it provides insulation. When the ground gets cold, it can drain your body heat and leave you shivering in the middle of the night. Having a barrier under your air mattress helps to keep you warmer and offers you a relaxing sleeping experience.
Lastly, it helps protect your air mattress. Sharp rocks or debris on the ground can puncture your mattress, leading to an uncomfortable night’s sleep. Placing something under it acts as a shield and prevents any kind of damage that extends the life of your air mattress.
5 Best Things To Put Under an Air Mattress When Camping
#1. Dri-Dek
Dri-Dek is like a camping carpet that acts as a smart and versatile flooring solution for your tent. Dri-Dek offers a cushioned and textured surface to the air mattress that prevents it from sliding and also provides a soft and comfortable space to walk.
It is like a mini-floor that immediately converts your camping spot into a relaxing corner. These tiles are durable and easy to clean, which makes them ideal for outdoor use. It’s a practical and lightweight choice, which is why you’ll have a clean, dry, and comfortable foundation for your sleep.
So, bring along Dri-Dek, and let it create a flooring of comfort for you and your air mattress.
#2. Camping Pad or Mat
A camping pad or mat is a cushiony friend that fits right under your air mattress without making any extra adjustments and relaxes your sleeping system.
These pads or mats add much-needed extra comfort and protection from the rough ground. They protect your expensive inflatable beds from bumps, rocks, and the chill of the night. When you have a camping pad or mat, your sleeping bag feels more like a cozy nest, and your air mattress becomes a bed of dreams.
While it is a relatively thinner option compared to foam mattress toppers that slightly limit the padding and relatively more expensive, ranging from $20 to $200 or more based on type and brand, still, the benefits outweigh the cost.
Overall, a camping pad or mat is a valuable investment for campers seeking a cozier and restful night’s sleep amidst the great outdoors.
#3. Yoga or Exercise Mat
A yoga or exercise mat is handy under your air mattress while camping and provides extra cushioning and comfort against the tough, uneven and chilly ground.
These mats are pretty lightweight and easy to carry, which is why they are an ideal option to use under the air mattress while camping.
Although it may not be as thick as other options, it offers a decent level of insulation from the cold ground. Moreover, it comes at an affordable price, generally priced between $10 to $70 depending on material and thickness.
However, it’s important to note that it might not be as durable as some alternatives, and its padding may be relatively thin.
#4. Clothing, Towel or a Blanket
Using clothing or a towel under your air mattress while camping is like giving your sleeping spot a soft hug. It’s a quick and easy way to add a layer of comfort to your airbed in no time.
Your clothing or towel’s thick fabric acts like a barrier between the cold ground and the air mattress base that eventually protects it from any threats and also offers insulation.
However, it’s good to remember that they might not provide as much padding as other options, so it might not be the best if you’re looking for a really soft bed. Also, they can get wrinkled or bunched up, which can, again, make them a bit uneven.
The best part is that using your clothes or towel won’t cost you anything extra since you already have them. It’s a simple, budget-friendly way to make your camping sleep a little cozier, especially when you have nothing to put under the air mattress.
#5. Tarps or Groundsheets
Using tarps or groundsheets under your air mattress while camping is like adding a protective layer to your bed.
It’s like laying a strong shield between your cat-proof air mattress and the ground. These tarps or groundsheets prevent moisture from getting into your airbed and keep your sleeping space dry and comfortable all night.
Tarps and groundsheets are pretty easy to clean, protect your air mattress from sharp objects or rough surfaces, and help increase its lifespan.
However, they can sometimes be noisy or crinkly when you move around on them. In terms of cost, they’re usually quite affordable, ranging from around $10 to $30(size and material plays an important role).
It’s a useful investment for added comfort and protection during your camping adventure. Whether it’s a clear night under the stars or a sudden downpour, tarps or groundsheets act like your air mattress’s reliable guardian.
About Eric Smith
With 4+ years of experience dealing with air mattresses, Eric has gotten really good at making useful and interesting stuff for you to read. He loves helping people find the right air mattresses and fix any air mattress-related issues.
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