Kathmandu self-inflating mattress
 

Hi guys,

Thought I'd throw in my two-penny's worth...

On my last big camping expedition in the Western Australian desert, I took a cheapie Kathmandu self-inflating mattress cos at the time I couldn't afford anything in the more expensive Thermarest range. Apart from the fact that it rolled up mega-small, it was REALLY comfy whether sleeping on deep sand or rock-hard salt pans. Coupled with an emptied wine bladder as a pillow (I'd forgotten to take a proper pillow!) and a Kathmandu down sleeping bag, I had some of the best night's sleep ever on it!

So if you're looking for a cheap but effective option, I heartily recommend the above! :thumbup1:
Jeanie :mchappy:

PS: I had help emptying the wine bladder, in case anyone's wondering...!!

Can't say that I find self inflating mats comfortable personally, have tried a few from cheap Gelert 25mm 3/4 length ones to a Thermarest 50mm full size one. They are however very good at insulating you from the cold ground. Now I use either a hammock for comfort, or if I'm ground sleeping I use a Thermarest Neo Air, it isn't self inflating but it packs down nice and small and I find it way more comfortable than self inflating mats, even if it does sound as though you are sleeping on a giant bag of crisps at times!

Exped everytime...
 

Exped Downmat 7DLX - the best nights sleep camping you can get! :thumbup1:

I would also recommend the alpkit mats we have three, I have the fat versions, they are better than my bed at home!

I have one of these for about 4 years now. Just love em. They pack really small they are durable and they are nice to lay on. And i haven't been nice to mine so im quite amazed that it is still in one piece. If i ever happen to need a new one i will buy a therm-a-rest for sure.

Hi mate.
Had the same problem. You could try Decathelon sports shops or cut down your foam mat to 3/4's length and a bit off the width(Old Military method). There also used to be Z shaped folding mats that were quite good. Good luck.
Mike