top of page
Writer's pictureMiss Krys Wilderness

Backpacking Sleeping Pad on a Budget

Updated: Nov 23, 2020



OutdoorsmanLab Ultra Light Review


When it comes to backpacking in the backcountry you want something lightweight and conveniently stored. I used this sleeping pad when backpacking to Havasupai Indian Reservation which was over 20 miles round trip and this pad worked wonders for me. I slept comfortably on this pad in my tent with a sleeping bag and even over a rock or two which did not affect me negatively at all. Thanks to this pad my back felt great the next day although my feet were sore from hiking so much!

Comfort: I was able to sleep on my back, side and stomach with the cushion of this pad. It is 2.2" thick and the diamond shaped padding provides thickness and offers more cushion than foam mats such as the Thermarest Ridge Rest. It is flexible and allows you to sleep on uneven terrain as I did without any issues. This pad gets you off the ground and creates comfort in camping.



Performance: The inflation port seals well & does not leak throughout the night. As you blow into the port to inflate the pad, air is prevented from leaking out with a one-way valve. It is easy and quick to fill up and there is no need to use an air pump. It took me about 15 breaths to fill which also depends on each persons lung capacity and fitness. The material does stretch for the first use so blow it up prior to your trip if possible. It is an R-2.2 value so it is great for about 3-4 seasons depending on the location you are camping. It is not insulated so it is not made for winter camping or below freezing temperatures.



Durability: I used it to sleep on different surfaces such as rocks and it held up well without any damage or leaks. However, it is always possible for leaks to happen so I recommend bringing a patch repair kit just incase any damages occur during a multiple night camping trip.


Weight & Size: 73” x 21.6” x 2.2” when it is inflated but conveniently packs to 8” x 3” x 3” and fits a single sleeping bag.

It is 14.2 oz and is signifcantly less bulky than many of the foam or non-inflating sleeping pads.

I am able to fit 2 of the OutdoorsmanLab Ultra light's comfortably in my Mountain Summit Gear Northwood Series II 2-Person Backpacking Tent and also fit it in my Women's REI Co-op Traverse 65 Pack among other necessary backpacking items. **I am 5'5'' and 120 lbs and this was a great size for me. My boyfriend also used this pad which he is 6ft and 185 lbs and this was suitable for him so a big plus for men and women that range in size/weight. It also packs extremely easily with 3 folds and then rolls up and fits right back in the bag it originated in without a struggle.



Value: The price is only $39.99 on Amazon which is a great deal for the quality. I shopped many different pads at REI/Amazon etc and found this one to be the best bang for you buck. It is great for spring, summer and early fall which makes it pretty versatile!


Pros:

Affordable price without breaking the bank

Easy to inflate/deflate (SUPER easy to do solo)

Lightweight

Compact

Conveniently packs (SUPER easy to do solo)

Lifetime Warranty

30-day no questions asked refund!

Family-owned & USA made!


Cons:

Not equipped for conditions under 40 degrees Fahrenheit


It is great for a minimalist and is cost friendly!

Great for your next backpacking or camping trip!


This blog contains amazon affiliate links so if you purchase through my link I make a small commission at no extra cost to you!


Comments


bottom of page