Last updated on February 10th, 2023 at 06:45 pm
Many outdoor lovers avoid camping due to chronic back pain but rest assured, there’s a solution. While there is an abundance of camping mattresses available, not all of them provide adequate support for your aching back. And, if you’re apprehensive about sleeping outside because of a bad back, fear not. We’ve found several options for the best camping mattress for a bad back. Find out which one is right for you and get packing!
Our Favorite Camp Mattresses for Bad Backs Are...
After reviewing several sleeping options, we’ve narrowed our selection to the six best camp mattresses based on the criteria above.
Additionally, if you suffer from a bad back, these mattresses deserve special mention and are by far the best options available.
The Best Overall: Big Agnes Insulated Air Core Ultra Wide Sleeping Pad
Runner-Up: Better Habit CertiPUR-US SleepReady Memory Foam Mattress
Best for Backpacking: Therm-a-rest NeoAir XTherm MAX
Our Favorite Budget Option: WELLAX Self-Inflating Foam Mattress
Outdoor enthusiasts have a lot of options to choose from. Which is why we’ve searched for the best of the best. For instance, we go into specifics in the following in-depth reviews.
Comparison Table of Camping Matresses
First, we placed our final contenders in the table below for quick reference.
| Picture | Main Pros | Main Cons | Weight | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Deeper Trails' Top Pick
 
|
•Lightweight Adjustable support Easy Set-up |
•Not water resistant A little on the thin side (3 ½”) |
22 oz. | $$ |
Runner Up
 
|
•Extremely easy to use Very supportive Great for low back pain |
•Bulky Heavy |
17 lbs. | $$ |
Best for Backpacking
 
|
•Extremely warm •Easy to use •Small, lightweight, and compact |
•Expensive •Crinkly sound when using |
23 oz. | $$$ |
Best Budget Option
 
|
•Durable construction •Fast setup •Great spinal support •Self-Inflating |
•Too heavy for backpacking |
6 lbs. 4 oz. | $$ |
 
|
•Superb insulation •Luxurious loft •Self-Inflating |
•Too heavy for backpacking •Very pricey |
5 lbs. | $$$ |
 
|
•Elevated Sleeping •Cot and pad combo •Easy to Use •Durable construction |
•Thinner pad •Very heavy |
9 lbs pad; 26 lbs cot | $$$ |
As you can see from above, there are many styles of mattresses for camp. But, other variables set them apart, which we go into further below.
1. Big Agnes Insulated Air Core Ultra Wide Sleeping Pad
Firstly, the Big Agnes Insulated Air Core Ultra Wide Sleeping Pad is comfortable, lightweight, and easy to inflate.
In addition, its ultra-wide design is beneficial for those who sleep on their side to alleviate back pain. Plus, you get to adjust the firmness level.
Not to mention, the Big Agnes offers an economical and affordable price for those on a budget.
Durable For Many Trips
This ultra-wide sleeping pad is made from durable double RipStop nylon.
In fact, the Insulated Air Cor is constructed with aviation-grade thermoplastic polyurethane for added durability.
Furthermore, this mattress is built with vertical baffles and I-beam construction which reduces weight and provides consistent stability.
Finally, the Insulated Air Core’s comfortable, 3-season design works well throughout most of the year.
It even comes with a protective storage sack.
Lightweight And Compactible
The Insulated Air Core is light enough and packs down small enough for those that are constantly on the move.
Additionally, the Air Core is great for backpacking adventures with its manageable weight.
For instance, the Insulated Air Core weighs in at only 22 ounces.
Plus, it folds down to approximately 4” x 8” making it pretty easy to squeeze just about anywhere.
Additionally, this mattress inflates to roughly 25” wide and 78” long. Thus, making it plenty long enough for tall campers and spacious for stretching out.
Easy And Adjustable Inflation
Finally, the Big Agnes Insulated Air Core comes with a pad inflation sack.
This helps reduce inflation time, which makes setup fast and easy. In addition, the high-volume valves make breaking camp a simple, rapid task.
Big Agnes’ micro-adjustments make it super easy to adjust the sleeping pad to your desired firmness. We found this mattress to be easily adjusted to suit our specific needs.
Pros and Cons of the Big Agnes Insulated Air Core Ultra Wide
Big Agnes Insulated Air Core PROS
- Lightweight
- Adjustable support
- Easy Set-up
Big Agnes Insulated Air Core CONS
- Not water resistant
- A little on the thin side (3 ½”)
Who is The Big Agnes Perfect For?
The Big Agnes Insulated Air Core Ultra Wide Sleeping pad is a great choice for hikers and backpackers, side sleepers, and those on a budget.
2. Better Habit Centri-PUR-US SleepReady Memory Foam Mattress
You won’t find a camping mattress easier to use than the Better Habit Centri-PUR-US SleepReady Memory Foam Mattress.
Furthermore, it’s ready in seconds, all you have to do is unclip it and roll it out.
The SleepReady also works well in the back of a truck, van, or SUV if you’re into offroad camping or overlanding.
Increased Comfort And Support
Firstly, at three inches thick, the SleepReady mattress provides plenty of superior comfort and support.
Moreover, the memory foam helps reduce joint pain and improves overall mobility and energy.
In addition, the Sleep Ready even comes with a fitted waterproof bamboo sheet and machine washable, removable cover.
Moreover, in a National Sleep Foundation’s poll, this mattress was voted number one for most comfortable mattress.
Easy To Use
The Better Habitat Certi-PUR is about as easy to use as a sleeping bag. No more messing around with inflating and deflating.
Simply remove it from the bag, unclip the latch, and roll it out. You can’t get much simpler than that.
Even better, it’s just as easy to roll up and put away. Getting it back in the bag is a fairly simple process and easy to do.
However, make sure your tent is plenty big enough to hold it.
The single-sized Certi-PUR requires 75″ x 25″ as many of the others, but the increased height of 3″ can make you feel crammed into the sidewalls of a small tent.
Plenty Big
Not only is the SleepReady comfortable and easy to use, but it’s plenty big enough as well.
At 25″ wide, it’s sufficient for side or back sleeping. And at just over six feet long, it’s long enough to stretch out.
Moreover, the SLeepReady is designed to support up to 230 lbs. Not surprisingly, there are plenty of big and tall campers that appreciate this attribute.
Pros and Cons of the Better Habit Centri-PUR-US
Better Habit Centri-PUR-US PROS
- Extremely easy to use
- Very supportive
- Great for low back pain
Better Habit Centri-PUR-US CONS
- Bulky
- Heavy at 17 lbs
Who Will Love The Centri-PUR-US?
Any car camper looking for the equivalent of a comfortable bed for camping will love this mattress. The Centri-PUR-US SleepReady offers plenty of support, and the memory foam works well for those that suffer from lower back pain. It can be used in a tent as a stand-alone, or in conjunction with a sleeping pad or cot.
3. Therm-a-rest NeoAir XTherm Max
Our favorite for backpacking, the Therm-a-rest NeoAir XTherm Max With a 6.9 R-Value, the Therma-a-rest NeoAir XTherm Max has developed quite a reputation on the market. Many outdoor enthusiasts say it’s the best there is for staying warm.
Lightweight
Additionally, this mattress is perfect for those on the go.
The Xtherm Max weighs only 23 ounces and packs down to the size of a water bottle.
However, it also offers ample room. For instance, the XTherm Max fits a variety of body types and comes in Regular, Regular Wide, or Long.
Furthermore, inflated, it measures 77” x 25” and comes with a pump sack and stuff sack.
Super Warm
Additionally, the XTherm Max advertises the ”most warmth per ounce.” And, plenty of experienced campers confirm the validity of this statement.
For instance, its unique triangular baffles sandwich air and foam between supports which keeps you toasty warm in freezing temperatures.
Furthermore, this triangular core matrix creates a firm surface while simultaneously minimizing heat loss.
The XTherm Max is rated with a 6.9 R-value and provides 2 ½ inches of firm support.
And as an added bonus, it’s also water-resistant. If you enjoy camping in the winter months, this is one of the better R-value selections in our line-up.
However, you’ll pay the price to stay warm. This is one of the more expensive pads on the market, but it’s worth every penny.
And, as with anything good, there’s always a tradeoff. This mattress is somewhat loud and sounds like a crinkly chip bag when you shift during the night.
Quick Inflating / Deflating
Finally, the Neo Air XTherm features wing lock valves making set up and tear down super fast and easy.
This valve style allows you to control the airflow using a one-way inner valve for inflation. Likewise, you can use the two-way valve for deflation.
Moreover, the XTherm Max also comes with a pump sack that allows you to inflate the pad quickly. In addition, it does so without the added condensation of manual blowing.
Pros and Cons of the Therm-a-rest NeoAir XTherm Max
Therm-a-rest NeoAir XTherm Max PROS
- Extremely warm
- Easy to use
- Small, lightweight, and compact
Therm-a-rest NeoAir XTherm Max CONS
- Expensive
- Crinkly sound when using
Who Will Love The Therm-a-rest NeoAir XTherm Max?
This mattress is a superb choice for anyone that loves cold weather camping, or backpacking. It’s perfect for backpacking since it shrinks down nice and small. Plus, it’s extremely lightweight. It sets up quick and easy and is a cinch to pack away. It’s a little on the expensive side, but most things made in the USA are.
4. WELLAX Self-Inflating Foam Mattress
Our most economical selection is the WELLAX Self-Inflating Foam Mattress. If you’re on a budget or don’t camp all that much, this is a quality pad at an affordable price.
However, while WELLAX advertises this as a backpacking option, it’s almost six pounds and only packs down to 8×27 inches. So, while it’s certainly doable, there are much better options.
Self Inflating
Firstly, no labor is involved with inflating this pad; no blowing or pumping necessary!
The WELLAX Foam Mattress self-inflates in just a few minutes.
Simply unroll the pad and open the valve. Wait a few minutes until it’s fully expanded, then close the valve.
Super Comfortable
Additionally, the Wellax’s memory foam molds to your body shape making it comfortable to sleep on your back or side. The innovative foam frame offers plenty of support for your spine.
At three inches, The Wellax provides ample cushioning and insulation keeping you comfortable even in snow.
As an added bonus, you can adjust the level of firmness by adding or removing air.
Finally, at 77″ long and 28″ wide, the Wellax is comfortable enough to sleep on your side. Moreover, it won’t lose air during the night.
Furthermore, it’s also long enough for those on the tall side and can hold up to 300 lbs.
Durable
The Wellax’s exterior is 30 denier RipStop nylon with a thermoplastic polyurethane center.
In fact, it’s both waterproof and tear-resistant. As a result, this mattress can take a beating from more than a few seasons.
Whether you’re in a tent or on the ground, the WELLAX Self-Inflating Foam Mattress is built to last.
Pros and Cons of the WELLAX Self-Inflating Foam Mattress
WELLAX Self-Inflating Foam Mattress PROS
- Highly affordable
- Durable construction
- Fast setup
- Great spinal support
- Self-Inflating
WELLAX Self-Inflating Foam Mattress CONS
- Too heavy for backpacking at almost 6 lbs.
Who Would This Mattress be Perfect For?
The WELLAX is great for car camping, tent camping, and those on a budget. It’s durable and affordable. Furthermore, the memory foam is an excellent choice for those suffering from lower back pain.
5. Exped Megamat 10 Insulated Sleeping Pad
Next up, the Exped Megamat 10 is the Cadilac version of our best mattresses.
Most campers feel like the Megamat 10 is like sleeping in your their own bed!
Almost 4 Inches Of Loft
Firstly, the Megamat 10 features 3.9” of thickness, so you won’t bottom out with this sleeping pad.
Rest assured, you will not worry about waking up stiff and sore with this mattress.
In fact, the air-core channeled foam provides ultra comfort, and the non-slip surface keeps you from sliding off.
Furthermore, the high-frequency welded seams prevent loss of air through the night ensuring that you get a comfy night’s rest.
Ultra Insulated
Additionally, the Exped Megamat 10 carries an exceptional R-value of 8.1.
If you like camping in cold weather, you won’t worry about getting cold with the Megamat 10.
In fact, the open-cell foam insulation is designed to keep you warm down to -54° F.
Self-Inflating
Finally, the Exped Megamat features two FlatValves for quick inflation saving your lungs from huffing and puffing.
Moreover, there’s also a large deflation valve that releases air quickly when it’a time to go home.
Additionally, the built-in flap releases air so you can find your perfect comfort level.
And, the Megamat 10 features a built-in flap attached to the intake valve to prevent air loss. For this reason, on day 3 campers wake up on the same mattress they inflated on day 1.
Pros and Cons of the Exped Megamat 10
Exped Megamat 10 PROS
- Superb insulation
- Luxurious loft
- Self-Inflating
Exped Megamat 10 CONS
- At 5 lbs, not ideal for backpacking
- Very pricey
Who Would This Pad be Perfect For?
The Exped MegaMat 10 is ideal for those that enjoy luxury sleeping and have the pocketbook to support it. Furthermore, the MegaMat 10 is great for basecamps, campervans, or crashpads and winter camping. It’s fairly lightweight, easy to use, and offers easy inflation and deflation.
6. Teton Sports Outfitter XXL Camp Cot
Finally, the Teton Sports Outfitter XXL Camp Cot provides both pad and cot for the perfect sleep system.
Additionally, it offers unique convenience storage pockets, end bar attachments, and a built-in roll assistor with compression straps.
Extremely Durable
Firstly, the Outfitter XXL Camp Pad is a closed-cell foam pad made of 300 denier polyester canvas.
Additionally, the cot is made from 600 denier Oxford canvas. Whether used individually or together, both the pad and the cot are fully capable of taking a beating.
Furthermore, the cot frame is made using reinforced steel with an S-leg assembly for improved sturdiness, and it holds up to 600 lbs.
As an added bonus, Teton offers a lifetime limited warranty.
Elevated
The Outfitter XXL Camp Cot sleeping system is the only option in our lineup that gets you off the ground.
For those suffering from back pain, an elevated status goes a long way in helping you get up and down.
It sure makes getting up in the morning a whole lot easier.
Plenty Of Room
At 85” long and 40“ wide, the XXL Camp Cot offers plenty of room for side or back sleepers. As a result, you won’t have any difficulty rolling over in the middle of the night.
Furthermore, the XXL Camp Pad offers end bar attachments to keep your pad in place. Campers won’t worry about slipping and sliding.
Pros and Cons of the Teton Sports Outfitter XXL Camp Cot
Teton Sports Outfitter XXL Camp Cot PROS
- Elevated Sleeping
- Cot and pad combo
- Easy to Use
- Durable construction
Teton Sports Outfitter XXL Camp Cot CONS
- Thinner pad
- Very heavy (9 lbs pad; 26 lbs cot)
Who Would This Pad be Perfect For?
The Teton Outfitter XXL sleep system is perfect for those that prefer an elevated rest. If you struggle to get up and down, you’ll appreciate the luxury of sleeping on a cot. We found it to be a good selection for those that are on the big and tall side. It’s plenty long and wide and holds a substantial amount of weight. While it’s definitely not an option for backpacking, this is a near-perfect sleep system for a base camp.
Other Great Mattresses That Almost Made Our Top 6:
Pads vs Cots
Obviously, sleeping pads are the only viable option for backpacking due to weight restrictions. Ideally, your sleep pad should be less than 3 lbs for best result.
However, if your car camping, then cots certainly provide a more comfortable night’s rest. Being elevated makes it so much easier to get up and down and really saves your back from excessive discomfort.
Regardless of which one you choose, the key is to ensure that you get one wide enough for side sleeping.
What is the Best Camping Mattress for a Bad Back?
Being a Big Agnes fan, the Air Core Ultra Wide Sleeping Pad is by far my favorite. It provides plenty of thickness and support and has a decent R-value for colder nights.
Not only is it long enough for stretching out and wide enough for side sleeping, the AirCore is affordable.
For avid backpackers or winter campers, the Therm-a-rest NeoAir is a much better option for you. At 23 oz, it’s much lighter; plus, it has a much better R-value at 6.9.
New campers or those that don’t want to spend a lot of money might prefer the WELLAX Self-Inflating Foam Mattress. It’s a decent option at an affordable price.
If you prefer the luxury of glamping, then you can’t go wrong with the Exped MegaMat 10. At almost 4 inches of comfort and an 8.1 R-value, you can’t really ask for much more.
Or, perhaps you prefer to be off the ground, in which case the Teton Outfitter is an excellent alternative. With a cot and pad combo, your back is sure to thank you in the morning.
What Size Camping Mattress is Best for a Bad Back?
When it comes to dealing with a bad back, the best camp mattress truly depends on your size. Obviously, the larger and taller you are, the longer and wider mattress you need.
The best camping mattress should be wide enough to support your entire body while side-sleeping. You shouldn’t have any part of your body hanging off your pad.
Likewise, it should be long enough for you to comfortably stretch out on without having any dangling limbs
Most importantly, it should be thick enough that you won’t bottom out with your hips or shoulders. Finally, if it’s inflatable, it should hold air sufficiently through the night without deflating.
What R-Value is Best for a Camping Mattress?
The best R-value for a camping mattress is the one that keeps you comfortable at night. Each of us is unique in our ability to withstand hot or cold. Comfort is subjective to the individual.
For example, I run cold, so I sleep comfortably with a 5-6 R-value in the middle of summer without getting too hot. Conversely, I know plenty of campers that have no issues sleeping in 2-3 R-value pads year-round.
It’s also dependent on whether you enjoy camping in the summer, the winter, or both. Thus, you may find it best to invest in multiple sleeping systems for different times of the year.
Also keep in mind that the higher the R-value, the less portable your mattress becomes. This isn’t an issue if you’re car camping, but if you’re a backpacker this directly impacts the weight you carry.
The general consensus is that an R-Value of 1-5 is best for the summer months.
Whereas, an R-Value of 5-7 is recommended for cold weather months.
In the end, as long as you’re comfortable that’s all that matters.
What Makes a Great Camp Mattress for Back Pain?
As someone who suffers from chronic back pain, there are a few requirements for any mattress that I purchase. To avoid waking up in pain, consider the following features when selecting your mattress.
- Thickness: We’ve found that a thicker pad equals more comfort and better support. However, when using a thin pad, you also have the option to add a layer of leaves and pine needles beneath your pad for added cushioning.
- Weight: With a bad back, you need to carefully consider the weight of your gear. If you’re backpacking for instance, opt for a mattress that can pack down small and weighs no more than 3 pounds. However, for those driving up to a camp site, you really can choose whichever mattress suits your comfort.
- Support: If your back pain requires you to sleep on your side, opt for a pad with horizontal baffles like the Therm-a-rest Neo Air. Memory foam mattresses usually offer the best support for the lower back, but they can be a bear to move around, causing more harm. Moreover, camping cots keep you from bending all the way to ground level and offer firm support that many people enjoy.
- Height and Width: Choose a pad with enough space for you to stretch and sleep how you need for comfort. As a general measurement, consider how you need to get comfortable at home, and measure your bed or couch for reference.
- Ease of Setup: When your back hurts, you’ll want a quick and painless set-up. In our opinion, anything that takes longer than 4 minutes is too long. If you choose an inflatable mattress, opt for one with an easy pump. Cots are a cinch as well.
Regardless of the location and intensity of your pain, there’s a mattress that will get you through your trip. We have also had great luck warming stones near the fire and throwing them into socks for a warm compress.
Get Out There, and Get Ready to Relax
Camping enthusiasts are die-hard, and a bad back won’t stop most of them. Don’t let chronic back pain prevent you from enjoying the great outdoors. With today’s technology, there are plenty of options that let you sleep comfortably while backpacking, tent camping, or car camping.
Choosing any one of the aforementioned camping mattresses provides you with adequate comfort and support for a bad back. Find one that fits your budget and your body type, and you’ll be a master outdoor enthusiast in no time.
About the Author
Sarah Sampsell
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