CAMPING | Expert Guide To Camping SIMs Self Inflating Mattresses

July 12, 2024 Shell Robshaw-Bryan

Camping Features, Camping Tips & Advice, Homepage Feature, Tips & Advice

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Camping SIMs are an absolute must-have whether you’re a wild camper, backpacker or family camper. In our detailed guide to SIMs we let you know exactly what they are and explore their benefits, providing you with a variety of different Self Inflating Mat options to choose from…

Camping SIMs, or self-inflating mats, are a popular choice for campers looking for a comfortable and reliable sleeping solution. Self-inflating mats combine the comfort of an air mattress with the ease of roll-out foam pads, making them an essential piece of gear for a good night’s sleep in the great outdoors.

What are Self-Inflating Mats?

Self-inflating mats are designed with an open-cell foam core that expands when the valve is opened, drawing in air automatically. This combination of foam and air provides insulation and cushioning, enhancing comfort while maintaining a compact and lightweight form suitable for camping.

Thermarest NeoAir XTherm NXT Sleeping Pad Regular

KingCamp Camping Mat Inflatable Sleeping Mat Double

Thermarest Trail Lite Trooper Regular Sleeping Mat

Vango Odyssey Single Self Inflating Sleep Mat 7.5cm

Benefits of Self-Inflating Mats

Comfort
The combination of air and foam offers superior comfort compared to traditional foam pads and depending on the depth you choose, they can offer really high levels of comfort, even for side sleepers.

Insulation
The foam core provides excellent insulation, helping to keep you warm by reducing heat loss to the ground – I personally find SIMs much warmer than air mattresses.

Ease of Use
You don’t need to take a pump with you, simply open the valve(s), and the mat will self-inflate, saving time and effort.

Compact and Lightweight
When deflated, SIMs can be rolled up compactly, making them easy to carry, transport and store.

Outwell Dreamcatcher Single Sleeping Mat 10cm

Superior Air Retention
I’ve been using SIMs over traditional inflatable air mattresses for more than a decade now and I never have issues with SIMs deflating. For longer camping trips, my big double will often need a little top-up after a few days, but both of my single SIMs don’t seem to lose any air at all in the way I found inflatable air mattresses do.

Versatility
Depending on the type of camping you do, you can pop your SIM straight onto the floor of your tent, or you can glam up your camping experience and use a folding camp bed and pop the SIM on top for the ultimate camping comfort!

How to Choose the Right Self-Inflating Mat

When selecting a self-inflating mat, there are lots to choose from in varying depths, which translates to a multitude of price points. These are the main things to consider when choosing a SIM.

Camping SIMS of different sizes side by side — A regular 7cm SIM next to the huge Vango Shangri-La II

Size and Thickness

Length and Width
Ensure the mat is long and wide enough to accommodate your body size. Standard sizes are usually adequate for most adults, but longer or wider options are available for taller, broader or heavier individuals.

Thickness
Thicker mats provide more comfort but may be bulkier. Choose a thickness that balances comfort and packability.

R-Value

Insulation Rating
The R-value indicates the mat’s insulating properties. Higher R-values offer better insulation, making them suitable for colder conditions. For summer camping, an R-value of 1-4 is usually sufficient, while for autumn or winter camping, look for an R-value of 5 or higher.

Weight and Packability

Weight
Lightweight mats are easier to carry and some brands like Therm-a-rest specialise in lightweight SIMs that are ideal for backpacking. However, they may offer less comfort compared to thicker, heavier, more cushioned options.

Pack Size
Consider how compact the mat is when deflated and rolled up, especially if space is a concern. In general a SIM of around 7-10cm will be relatively compact when rolled up, comparing to the size of about half a pillow to a full pillow in size.

Durability and Material

Fabric
Look for mats made from durable, high-quality materials that can withstand rough terrain and frequent use. Cheap mats are readily available, but in my experience choosing a name you trust is usually well worth it.

Construction
Check for reinforced seams and a sturdy valve design to ensure longevity and reliability.

Inflation and Deflation Time

Valve Type
Different mats come with various valve designs, such as twist-lock or one-way valves. Choose a mat with a valve that is easy to operate and allows for quick inflation and deflation.

Outwell Dreamhaven Double Insulation Mat 10 cm

How to Use a Self-Inflating Mat

Although simple to use, there are some tips and tricks that will help you to inflate your mat more efficiently.

SIM Inflation Tips

Unroll the mat and open the valve(s). The mat will start to inflate automatically as the foam expands and draws in air, however, if it has been stored rolled up for some time, or depending on the brand, it might benefit from a little extra help to inflate fully.

Once air has stopped actively being drawn into the SIM, close the valve(s) and then roll from the valve end. This forces all the air upwards, ensuring the foam is fully expanded, creating additional space near the valve end. Unroll and then open the valves again and you should find more air is then freely able to rush in, expanding the SIM further.

For additional firmness, you can manually blow into the valve a few times to add more air until it’s as firm as you like.

Close the valve(s) once the mat reaches the desired firmness.

Zempire Monstamat Twin – Fast Inflate Self Inflating Mat 10cm

SIM Deflation Tips

Open the valve(s) and begin rolling from the opposite end. Get the first roll nice and tight and gently press out any remaining air as you roll towards the open valve(s) end.

Once you reach the end, close the valve(s) to keep the mat compact, and to stop air rushing back in, then secure it with straps or place it in its carry bag.

KingCamp Self Inflating Camping Mat Air Mattress 3″

SIM Care and Maintenance

Cleaning Your SIM

Wipe the mat with a damp cloth and mild soap if it attracts any marks or stains. Avoid submerging it in water or using harsh chemicals on it though.

SIM Storage

Ideally, you should store the mat unrolled with the valve open in a cool, dry place to maintain the foam’s integrity and prolong its lifespan.

For most of us though, we simply don’t have the space to do that, in which case storing it rolled is fine. Keep it somewhere free of humidity that’s nice and dry and over winter or during long periods when it won’t be used, I’d recommend getting it out and inflating it every now and again.

SIM Repairs

Carry a repair kit to fix any punctures or leaks. Most self-inflating mats come with a basic repair kit though in my experience I’m yet to experience a SIM puncture!

KingCamp Self Inflating Camping Mat Double 7.5cm

My Personal SIM Recommendation

The ultimate SIM as far as I’m concerned is the Vango Shangri-la II Grande (shown below) which I’ve been using for the past 2 years, and the comfort it provides is next level.

Do consider though, that they are big and chunky even when rolled up, but the benefit is extremely high levels of comfort, perfect for side sleepers or those who find thinner mats too uncomfortable.

Vango Shangri-La 15cm Grande Self Inflating Mat

Self-inflating mats are an great investment for campers seeking comfort, insulation, and convenience, without the annoyance of air leaking out and the need to regularly reinflate.

By considering factors like size, thickness, R-value, weight, durability, and ease of use, you can find the perfect mat to enhance your camping experience, regardless of what type of camping you do.

With proper care and maintenance, your self-inflating mat will provide you with many years of reliable service, ensuring you get a restful sleep no matter where your camping adventures take you!