Quick Answer
A regular air mattress can be used for hunting, but it may not be the most ideal choice due to its bulkiness, lack of insulation, and potential for noisy movement.
Choosing a Hunting Sleeping Pad
When selecting a sleeping pad for hunting, consider the weight, thickness, and R-value (insulation rating) of the pad. A good sleeping pad should weigh less than 2 pounds and have an R-value of at least 2.5 for effective insulation. For example, the Therm-a-Rest Trail Lite sleeping pad weighs 1 pound 12 ounces and has an R-value of 2.3.
Setting Up a Hunting Sleeping Pad
To set up a regular air mattress for hunting, inflate it to the recommended pressure, then place it inside a lightweight sleeping bag or bivy sack. This will help to compress the pad and reduce its bulk. You can also use a compact air pump to inflate the pad, such as the MSR Pocket Pump, which weighs 3 ounces and can pump up to 2 liters of air per minute.
Tips for Using an Air Mattress for Hunting
When using a regular air mattress for hunting, it’s essential to keep it quiet and compact. To achieve this, use a lightweight sleeping bag or bivy sack, and consider using a pad with a valve lock to prevent accidental deflation. Additionally, consider using a pad with a built-in insulation, such as the Exped MegaMat, which has an R-value of 4.5 and weighs 2 pounds 12 ounces.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.