Camping Mattresses

Name: Camping Mattresses
Brand: Decathlon

CAMPING MATTRESSES FAQS

Where is an extra-thick camping mattress that feels like a real bed available?

At Decathlon Ireland, we offer a range of camping mattress options designed to mimic the comfort and support of your home mattress, specifically within our Quechua collection. Finding a camping air bed that provides this level of luxury depends on the thickness and the internal construction. We recommend models with a depth of at least 10cm, as this volume of air allows for better weight distribution and prevents you from feeling the uneven ground beneath. The technical reason for choosing an extra-thick camping air mattress is air displacement; a larger volume allows the mattress to be adjusted to a lower internal pressure while still offering high-level support, creating that plush, "real bed" sensation that is vital for long-duration camping trips. ... These high-comfort models are perfect for family tents where space is secondary to sleep quality. By browsing our wider selection of sleeping gear, you can find mattresses that utilize internal "I-beam" technology to eliminate the bouncy feeling often found in a standard blow up camping mattress. This design ensures that when you move, the air remains stable across the surface. To complete the set-up, ensure you check out our camping pumps to achieve the perfect level of firmness without the physical strain of manual inflation.

Pro-tip: For the best sleep, do not over-inflate your camping air bed. It should have enough give so that when you sit on it, you almost touch the ground, but when you lie down, the air redistributes to support your entire body evenly.

How do I choose the best camping mattress for cold Irish weather?

When camping in Ireland outside of the peak summer months, insulation is just as important as cushioning. A standard camping air mattress can often feel cold because the large volume of air inside stays at the ambient ground temperature. For colder conditions, we recommend a self-inflating camping air mat. These contain an open-cell foam core that provides a thermal barrier between your body and the earth. The reason for this foam is its "R-value," which measures thermal resistance; the higher the R-value, the better it prevents heat loss. You can find these warmer options in our self-inflating camping mattresses range. If you prefer the height of a blow up camping mattress, adding a foam mat underneath can significantly increase your comfort in the frost.

Pro-tip: Always allow a self-inflating mattress to sit with the valve open for 20 minutes before use. This allows the foam to fully expand to its maximum loft, ensuring you get the full thermal benefits of the internal insulation.

What is the difference between an inflatable camping mattress and a camping air mat?

The primary difference lies in their intended use and portability. A camping air mat is typically thinner and designed for trekking or backpacking where weight is a critical factor. These are often made from lightweight, abrasion-resistant materials to survive rugged terrain. On the other hand, a good air mattress for camping is usually thicker and designed for base-camp comfort where you aren't carrying it for miles. These inflatable camping mattresses offer much better support for side sleepers because the extra depth prevents the hips from pressing through to the floor. While the "why" behind trekking mats is weight-saving, the "why" behind camping air beds is spinal alignment and pressure relief after a long day of outdoor activity.

Pro-tip: To prevent leaks, always clear your tent floor of sharp stones or twigs before laying down your mattress. Even the best camping bed is vulnerable to punctures, so keeping a small repair kit with adhesive patches in your gear bag is a smart move for any camper.