(Part 2) Reddit mentions: The best camping sleeping pads

REI's Backpacking Tips for Beginners is a good place to start.

https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/backpacking-beginners.html

You'll notice the first section is "Find an Experienced Partner". While this sub and others can give you a lot of advice, it's not a substitute for a partner who knows what they're doing. That doesn't mean you can't just go out and "wing it"... if you do, don't bite off more than you can chew. Better to take a few shorter overnights just to get used to things before heading out into the backcountry and having an epic. And I think you need a permits for Yos/Mammoth, so better look into that.

The REI list discusses shared gear and personal gear. Most likely an experienced partner is going to already own a tent, stove, cookware... but if it's just two of you with no gear, you'll have to pick up both shared and personal gear. How you want to split the cost is up to you.

The checklists are nice... but before you go out and buy everything on the list, make sure you will actually need them. Start with the basics; tent, bag, pad, pack, headlamp, FAK, maps & compass, stove, pot, utensils, shoes and clothing... and then go from there.

Here's the REI backpacking checklist:

https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/backpacking-checklist.html

It's comprehensive, but remember you don't need everything on the list. It's pretty common for a beginner to go out and spend way too much money, and then start leaving stuff home as they find they don't need it on the trail.

REI is a great place to spend (a lot of) money. They've got very nice gear, and a great return policy if the gear doesn't work for you... but you'll pay full retail if you just walk in and buy the gear. With a membership, all full price items return 10% to you at the end of the year so it's not too bad, and they have seasonal 20% off coupons which do help. It's a good place to pick up a pack since they can help getting you one that fits, which goes a long way to a comfortable hike. Ditto with shoes, and you can try out mattress pads and see what's comfortable for you.

You can buy other things elsewhere like Amazon... but it's recommended that you go to a gear shop to try on packs (and buy it there to support the store).

Here are a few recommendations:

Pack - Gregory and Osprey are often recommended. For a beginner, 50L-60L is a good size. Don't get a 70L pack, you'll just end up bringing more gear than you need. Try the pack on, load it up with weights, and make sure it fits and carries well. Sometimes the REI packs will fit you better than others... if that's the case get the REI (and save a few bucks).

Tent - Huge range of products here. The Lynx is a decent starter tent for the cost. It'll probably last a few years, and by then hopefully you'll have more money and more experience and get something you like better.

Sleeping bag - If you can afford a down bag, that's great, they're lighter and pack smaller than synthetic bags. The Kelty Cosmic 20 is a good bag for the price.


Pad - Look at the basic inflatables (keep in mind the R-value if you're thinking of going later in the season) like the Thermarest ProLite. Some stick with foam pads like the Thermarest Z Lite pad to save money. Try them out and see what you like.

Stove - The MSR PocketRocket is ol' reliable. Lot of people have them, but the new MSR PocketRocket 2 is more compact and lighter. There are some cheap (< $15) stoves on Amazon, the Etekcity and BRS 3000T... people have been using them but they're small and more suited to people who are just boiling water for dehydrated meals rather than those who actually cook.

Cookset - Don't spend money on a 12 piece cookset...they're cool, but at some point you'll probably figure out you only need a shared pot and a mug for each person. And maybe a small fry pan. Depends on what you want to eat out there. Anodized aluminum is light and sturdy, but more expensive than other options. Titanium is super light, but doesn't disperse heat well so it's great for boiling water, but not so much for cooking non-liquid meals. Stainless steel is heavy but will last many years.

Spork - so many sporks out there... long handled spoons work better for getting food from the bottom of a packet.

Headlamp - Get a decent headlamp. Black Diamond Spot is a nice one, Petzl makes some nice ones as well.

Good luck!

I have a good eye :)

Apologies for the wall of text, but I tend to ramble on topics that I'm passionate about, hopefully some of the ramble below will help.

Which Inflatable pad do you have, I'm guessing you're a side or stomach sleeper like myself?

I have the Klymit kings static V inflatable pad, I like that it packs really small and it's very light weight, but it's not entirely comfortable for side sleeping or stomach sleeping. I did once camp with my tent on sand and this was comfortable, but on regular dirt it's not.

I then tried the REI camp bed 3.5 self inflating pad. It's a self inflating pad which is a hybrid between a foam and an inflatable. At 3.5" thick, it's incredibly comfortable for side & stomach sleeping, but the drawback is weight (~5lbs) and it does not pack down small, I have to strap it to the outside of my pack.

If you are a similar sleeper like myself, you may want to check out hammock camping. I picked up an ENO double nest for just relaxing around camp or in the back yard at home and found it to be the most comfortable naps I've taken outdoors. While I can't sleep on my stomach, side sleeping is very comfortable and I actually fall asleep on my back which is unheard of. I'm not saying to run out and buy a full hammock camping set up, but maybe at the next REI garage sale, see if there is a really cheap ENO double nest and straps and give it a try in the back yard, you may want to convert afterwards :)


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Headlamps? As in more than one? + a lantern? If I may suggest an alternative / weight savings..... This year I switched over to using a Olight S1 Mini baton because I always hike with a hat and the double clip allows it to slide right on the brim. It's also incredibly light weight and has several light levels. The back cap is also magnetic, so when tent camping, it sticks to the tent poles, for hammock camping I just hang it on the ridge line by the clip. The lowest level is 5 lumens I believe, which is dim but more than enough to see your foot placement on the trail at night. It also has the strobe setting which can come in handy if you find yourself in trouble to disorient an individual or an animal. (your post above mentions the fear of being a solo hiking woman, so this would be a good tool in conjunction with a decent knife). While it doesn't have a red filter, there are tons of youtube videos on how to make your own red filter cap for night vision savings.


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A Camelbak is always a must have for me, I get dehydrated quickly, so I carry the 3L version. I also carry a smart water bottle on the exterior side pocket of my atmos. Reason being is they are significantly lighter than a nalgene or other plastic bottles on the market and they're very very cheap to replace. Also, you can use this bottle for water enhancers such as Mio, crystal light, or a hydration powder, without risking an issue to your Camalbak. I've found having Mio on a trip is a great mental pick me up when it's hot and I'm tired.


I have not used a life straw, but for any overnight or distance trip, a must have for me is my Sawyer filter and 1 squeeze bag. I went with the Sawyer because it will allow me to refill the giant 3L Camelbak with this adapter without digging out the Camelbak, (see the 4th picture down). The squeeze bag is for dirty water only, so I do not have to worry about dirty water contamination with other items. Lastly, with this adapter I don't have to bring the syringe to clean it, this adapter's threads will fit the smart water bottle, or a coke bottle, and allow me to flush out the filter. While I've yet to have to flush it on a trip, it's a good thing to have for after the trip and cleaning things.

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I used to have a few must have items, but recently I've been weeding them out to save weight. Most of them are comfort items and I am the individual who packs with the mindset of "what if this happens.....", so I tend to pack things I rarely use. I really love having a warm meal, so my Jetboil is usually a staple. Since it is a gas burning stove, I could (in a survival situation) use it to boil water or start a fire to keep warm. However, foods can be re-hydrated with cold water, it might take longer and not be as delicious, but it saves the weight of the jetboil and I have the sawyer for clean water anyway, and a small bic lighter is a fraction of the weight, so I've done without it on the last few trips.

I've moved on to the mentality of packing items that are multi-purpose, try to cut out any redundancies to save weight. While I am no where near being considered ultralight, I've started incorporating their ideals into my packing to help out. You may want to check out their subreddit.

My buddy Scott is the one I always go to for questions related to backpacking/ hiking, he's been doing it far longer than I have, and seems to always be ahead on the new gear or techniques. He started a blog recently on his findings and tips/suggestions, it may be worth a look: Hack your pack

Hopefully this ramble helps!

I just got the Klymit Insulated V Ultralite SL, this one here. It arrived yesterday.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B074WG9QM3/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I'm new to backpacking and didn't want to spend $200 on an insulated pad. We mostly camp 3 seasons too but I like to camp late fall/early spring and in the Carolinas in the mountains it can dip into the 20's (and sometimes the teens if up in higher elevations).

I took a nice nap on it yesterday, it's really comfy once you get the perfect amount of air let out after inflating. I was using with an inexpensive Teton bag I picked up also on Amazon and with the Klymit "X" pillow, which is nice.

The material on both the pillow/pad is really thin but it seems to be made out of a pretty durable woven material. The UL pad comes in at just under 1 LB and with 4.4 R Value, won't get super cold. I think the higher R-Value is great since the weight also stays low. I don't think you will get too hot at all, I would definitely get an insulated pad unless you plan to buy more than one.

Pad I listed comes in JUST under $100 ($95), comes with a patch kit, and has a limited lifetime warranty if purchased new from Klymit. Honestly I am pretty impressed with their stuff so far.

BTW what quilt did you go with? My bag is pretty cheap, bulky (synthetic fill) and weighs 4.1 lb (ouch). I just got my wife a Kelty Cosmic 22 degree womens bag which is under 3 lb sinc she wants to hike fairly light, but I really want to find a nice sub 2-3 lb insulated bag or quilt and most bags in my temp/weight desired range are $200+.

EDIT: just saw you listed your quilt, looking now :)
EDIT #2: just saw they currently have a 6-7 week lead time which won't help me for my trip in 2.5 weeks :(

It just so happened that a lot of Eureka stuff was on sale at the time I was shopping, so I look like something of a fanboy.

• [Eureka Apex 3XT Tent] (http://www.amazon.com/Eureka-Apex-3XT-Tent-sleeps/dp/B0043HM5RC) - It's a three man tent, but I'm a big guy and I wanted extra room. Camping off the bike makes the slightly heavier weight from a 3 man tent not a big deal, it compresses down pretty small anyway. Gives me plenty of room to bring all my gear inside the tent at night, and if the wife decides to go camp with me there will be room for us both without any problem.
  
  
• [Eureka Sandstone 45F Rectangular Sleeping Bag] (http://www.amazon.com/Eureka-Sandstone-45-Degree-Rectangular-Sleeping/dp/B006MQAWS6) - Synthetic bag, one for me and one for my wife. Nothing really fancy about it other than that they are mate-able to each other we want to get extra snuggle-y on a trip.
  
  
• [Eureka Camp Pillow] (http://www.amazon.com/Eureka-2641201-Camp-Pillow/dp/B004BZX7PK) - Some people say use a stuff sack with your dirty clothes, I say I don't want to smell funky multiple day old swamp ass while I'm trying to sleep. I guess I could use clean clothes, but meh..
  
  
• [Exped SynMat Basic 7] (http://www.amazon.com/Exped-SynMat-Sleeping-Terracotta-Long/dp/B0018MC976) - Air mattress. My theory is that if you don't get at least some restful sleep, you will be miserable the next day. Packs down very small, provides comfort and insulation from the ground.
  
  
• [Sea to Summit eVent 30L Compression Dry Sack] (http://www.amazon.com/Sea-Summit-eVent-Compression-Medium/dp/B000NQQ5A0) - I have multiples of this item. I pack the tent, rainfly and groundcover all in one, and it all compresses down to around 12x6 inches. Sleeping bag goes into another, compresses down to about 12x12 inches.
  
  
• [Kwik Tek Dry Pak 70L Waterproof Duffel Bag] (http://www.amazon.com/DP-D1BK-Waterproof-Duffel-Black-Large/dp/B00644OLLU) - Cooking gear, sleeping equipment, and other stuff I don't put in the panniers goes in here, and then the bag is strapped across the pillion seat with RocStraps. If it's a two up trip, the 52L Givi comes off the back of the bike, and the 70L Dry Pak is replaced by a 110L Dry Pak so there is enough room to stash the wife's gear as well.
  
  
• [Sea to Summit DryLite Towel] (http://www.amazon.com/Sea-to-Summit-DryLite-Towel/dp/B000OPPAQK) - Small and Extra Small. Great for drying off after getting caught in the rain, or after a shower at the campsite. They dry fast too.
  
  
• [Jetboil Zip] (http://www.amazon.com/Jetboil-Zip-Cooking-System-Black/dp/B004UVPDUM) cooking system - Boils 16oz of water in about 2.5 minutes. My breakfast is instant oatmeal and instant coffee/hot chocolate, so this takes care of both very quickly. The Jetboil also makes it super easy to make things like instant mashed potatoes for dinner.
  
  
• [Trangia 27-5] (http://www.trangia.se/english/2913.trangia_stoves.html) Ultralight Aluminium Cookset with add on 2.5L pot - Alcohol stove set with frying pan, two 1L pots and one 2.5 pot. For dinner I can cook up a steak, some soup or stew, pasta/rice sides (think of stuff like [this] (http://www.bearcreekcountrykitchens.com/index.php) and [this] (http://www.knorr.com/product/category/245876/pasta-sides). I don't worry about packing and carrying an entire trip's worth of food, I stop at a grocery store, and get a couple days worth of stuff. If I want fresh meat, I swing by a store immediately before hitting the campsite. Arrive, set up, cook.
  
  
• 12oz plastic cups - I carry a couple of [these] (http://www.campmor.com/outdoor/gear/Product___60048).
  
  
• Spork - Fork, spoon, and something resembling a knife [all in one] (http://www.campmor.com/outdoor/gear/Product___87620)
  
  
• Leatherman Blast - bring a multitool, you will be glad you did.
  
  
• A headlamp and a good flashlight are critical. I like [these small Black Diamond orbit lanterns] (http://www.rei.com/product/807910/black-diamond-orbit-lantern) too.
  

• I had no idea what kind of gloves I needed. The only time I've needed them is when I hiked in the Smokies for three days, and it was below 27 the entire time. I had leather driving gloves, and they were adequate. But wool seems way more practical.
  
  
• What do you think about Peanut Lighters? Bics would probably be more available, and I'd be able to stock up in towns with them. I want reliability, so I may compromise and take one of each.
  
  
• I was thinking of durability, which is why I first jumped to Nalgene. That being said, the 1L Platypus (stand-up bottle, not a hosed one) I've owned for 6-7 years has been fantastic, and weighs virtually nothing. Also, bonuses for you for the straw-hydration system. I chose the 2L pack, for it was 2c cheaper than the 1L, though I don't plan on completely filling it up unless there are time constraints, etc.
  
  
• GONE! I haven't read Winton's book yet, but I'll add that on my to-read list.
  
  Aside - I'm an Eagle Scout, so I'm going crazy with "Be Prepared" and "pack lightly" conflicting.
I wouldn't imagine there are too many emergency situations though, given the high volume of traffic.
  
  
• Wow, a big thanks for that heads up. That's what I always used on backpacking trips, but they were never more than a few days. I did acquire a taste for the iodine flavor, somehow. I think I'll get over that.
  
  
• I was planning on purchasing the knife anyway for general camping, but may end up just taking my old, basic Swiss Army instead.
  
  
• I was somewhat wary of a $15 backpacking stove, but with 48 reviews giving it a 4.6/5 rating, I was pretty much sold. The reviews are raving, and the pictures show that the little stove is able to put out some serious heat. But yes, testing is in order waaay before I hit the trail.
  
  
• Duly noted on the shorts.
  
  
• Got rid of both the other jackets, and am rather eager to try out the Patagonia down.
  
  

• HOLY SHIT, that is quite the behemoth at 55 oz. It had a perfect 5* rating with 19 reviews, was fairly cheap, and everybody praised it for the comfort. Comfort comes at a price. Here's a table of the pads I've compared.
  

  
  

  Name|Weight (ounces)|Size|Price
  

  ---|:--:|:--:|---:
  Thermarest Luxury Map Air|55 ಠ_ಠ|Regular|$81.53
  Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Air |14|Regular|$149.95
  Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Trekker|26|Large|$99.95
  Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Trekker|20|Regular|$96.83
  Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Trekker|???|Large Torso|$81.54
  Therm-A-Rest Trail Lite|39|Large|$63.95
  Therm-A-Rest Trail Lite|28|Regular|$59.95
  Therm-a-Rest RidgeRest SOLite|19|Regular|$21.95
  Therm-a-Rest RidgeRest SOLite|19??|Large|$29.95
  
  

• Though I am a fan of the pad you selected, the price seems a bit too much for me. I might be able to shell out almost $100 for the Regular sized NeoAir Trekker (20 oz). Though I'm probably going to be a cheap bastard and go for the slightly less insulating RidgeRest SOLite series (Large - $30, 19 oz; Regular - $22, 19 oz).
  
  
• And I posed some questions earlier in the comments, but I was wondering what you thought about footwear - should I bring just boots,
  just trail-runners, or both? And should I bring my 0* mummy and/or 50* fleece bags?
  
  Thank you so much for your insight thus far, you've already helped me literally take off pounds in my pack.
  
  EDIT - FORMATTING

I use a very thin Thermarest air mattress camping, like this and it's pretty comfortable. You can let some air out once you are on it so you sink in better, or make it extremely firm. This style is similar to an egg crate, and collapses into a rectangle shape when not using, so that can be handy, it's more foam than air, so some people like it more, some less. Lastly, this style is just semi-hard foam, and rolls up for storage. It's about the same as the egg crate one, but with a different foam pattern. There are also some ultralight Thermarest air ones that break down really small and light, but they are pretty expensive.

I've slept on all of them and I'd say for comfort, the air inflating one is the most comfortable, and I've had mine for 5+ years with no issue. I have a patch kit for it, and (thankfully) haven't had to use it yet. If you are just going for budget, Wal-Mart and other sporting good stores sell blue roll up foam pieces for around $10 that are decent too, it gives a bit of padding and and some insulation from the floor at a great price.

I use a super cheap foamy pad kinda like this one and an Enlightened Equipment Enigma quilt. For shelter I carry the Six Moon Designs Skyscape Scout. Wish I could afford the Skyscape X... saving my pennies for that one maybe in another year or two.

No joke, the dish rags I use are paper thin. I wish I could find an example of them on Amazon. Maybe I'll get spunky later and upload a picture.

While we're recommending gear, I highly recommend snagging one of these. It's weighs 0.4oz, clips to anything, puts out a tremendous amount of light, practically indestructable, and the battery lasts forever. I keep one on my keychain all the time and it's my backup flashlight if my head lamp were to croak.

Also, your day pack is really heavy. What do you really plan on carrying? Something like this would save you a full half pound.

Love this pad for car camping with my girlfriend. It is a nice double pad for a pretty good price. Pretty comfortable, and very warm. Never had any problems with bottoming out. I am not sure of the availability in Australia.


https://www.amazon.com/KingCamp-DELUXE-Thick-Self-Inflating-Camping/dp/B01D19MJ3C?th=1&psc=1

I bought the REI Relax and returned it after one use. It has an R-value of ZERO. Which means that you can only use it on a hot summer night. Not the rainy winter night I spent in the desert with it.

I replaced it with 2 of the single person version of the Exped MegaMat Duo 10 Sleeping Pad (the Duo was out of stock at the time or I would have gotten the Duo instead.). It is like a cloud. Easy to set up and take down. We camp about a month every year, so the amount of use we will get out of it over the years, more than justified the price.

I would also recommend the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Dream Sleeping Pad It has a thick cover over the whole pad to protect it from rocks and other stuff that could poke it.

Klymit has a fan club here, so I will also recommend the Klymit Double V Lightweight Sleeping Pad for Two

The ground is turf on top of concrete, it’s bearable, but I HIGHLY recommend getting a camping style sleeping pad. You can get a foam one that folds really easily for less than $30 bucks. If your budget is higher and you want an actual camping inflatable mattress, you can find decent ones for under $60 that you can use to camp outdoors as well. I’ll link some here in a bit.

Edit: (These two that I am linking are decent, but I’m sure you can find a better deal if you search. Either a cheaper or higher quality pad for the same price) Foam pad

Air pad

Awesome report thanks for sharing. As an experienced clothes free camper I advise you invest in a self inflating sleeping pad . Will make your clothes free sleep much more restful next time you go camping.

Not sure if you are car camping or backpacking, these I think are best for the latter. Either way you may want to consider placing foam mats underneath your pads since you've had leaks. They're super light and pretty simple to attach to your pack.
REI Sleeping Pad
It was extremely comfortable for me at 2.5" thick. I only ended up returning it because it's too bulky for me to bring backpacking.
Or this
ALPS Mountaineering Pad
Cheaper and seems to have a bit more comfort as the Long and XL have Pillow rise built in.

Check out Lightspeed. There are two versions. At Costco, they sell for $40 and $100. I have the $40 version and love how wide, plush and warm it is. It's even nicer on a cot, at least if you have a tent big enough for it. It's usually under $40 on Amazon. You do NOT want to bring that pad backpacking. It's super bulky and heavy. For backpacking, I like the Klymit Static V Ultralite SL for cooler weather. They have lots of uninsulated pads for warmer weather. There aren't many pads that weigh as little, pack as small and are in this price range. If you need these cheaper, check out the refurbs on their ebay store.

Sleeping pad

Sleeping bag

Tent


It’s honestly mind boggling how much new gear comes up anytime you search “ultralight ____” on Amazon in the past year or so. Most of it is from unknown companies but there are plenty of favorable reviews from people claiming to be seasoned campers.

I haven’t checked any of it out yet nor have I met anyone out in the wild using this stuff, but I’m really optimistic about the emerging affordable backpacking gear market. I totally understand wanting to save and spend more on quality gear, but I think the high price point of this hobby can come off as elitist and deter some people from ever getting into backpacking in the first place.

Definitely go with the 4 door, especially if you are car camping and towing as the longer wheel base of the 4 door is safer for towing.

​

The cost of the roof tent (nevermind the additional hit on gas mileage due to drag) is better spent on the JKU and one of these:


https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000MNBLY4


Push the passenger seat forward and fold the passenger side rear seat down with the headrest pushed all the way to the floor and leave your pad inflated in the back with a sleeping bag and pillow and enjoy a great sleep any time you need it on your way out West.

​

I've just driven across the country in my JKU and the convenience of simply climbing in the back whenever I got sleepy can't be overstated.

It would be better to get a self-inflating camping pad. They roll up small and light, they self inflate, they insulate you from the ground better, and they are far more comfortable than foam.

Pretty much the standard in backpacking pads for a while now, with brands like Therm-a-Rest. I've had the same pad for 15 years, up Mt. Washington and all over the place, and not a single complaint.

>Says original price is $40.00. Walmart has a great return policy.

Go for it, give it a try, if it works for you then that's what matters, but I just wouldn't trust it with my life. The ad states: you'll be cozy even if the temperature drops down to 10 degrees - no you won't, I can almost guarantee that, but I'm sure it'll be fine at 30 which is all you should be asking for with a cheap sleeping bag. Also, 4.55 lbs worries me, I can almost say for certain the materials this thing is made of are going to be the cheapest of the cheap, but once again, if that works for you then who am I to argue.

Same with the sleeping pads, you might find one that works for cheap, but I'd doubt it lasts long and unless you're a light person not be very comfy. As others have said, good camping gear is worth spending more than the minimum but if it gets you out there, then use it and use it as a stepping stone, important thing is having fun but freezing cold is not. Do not use that thing in 10 degree weather, I implore you.

edit: here's the sleeping pad I bought on the cheap and still use today, it works pretty well and is only a few bucks more and has a lifetime warranty. You want to familiarize yourself with R-values, heat retention guild, this one had one of the highest I could find at 3.44: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06XRJS4DD/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I would definately go with the Zlite Sol if you choose closed cell foam. But, If you can swing the extra cash check out the Klymit Static V ultralight SL insulated pad. Super comfortable, easy to inflate, 4.4 R value, 15 oz. You can find it for around $80 if you dig a little bit.

https://www.amazon.com/Klymit-Static-Ultralite-Sleeping-Insulated/dp/B074WG9QM3/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=Klymit+Static+V+Ultralite+SL+Sleeping+Pad&qid=1573494568&sr=8-3

I use an ALPS pad. link

It seems like they've revamped their line a little. I have a comfort 'regular' and it fits me rather well (i'm 5'11') . They are 48$ on amazon right now. Easy to patch, and pretty durable. Just keep the cats away from them ("ooh look, a new scratching post").

Nice, I sort of did something like this where I rode with a semi truck starting at the same station. I rode faster so I got way ahead of him but would have to stop every 100 miles to fill my tank, where he would pass me, and then I would catch back up, wave, pass him again, over and over for about 500 miles.

Noticed your sleeping pad, these are much nicer to sleep on and take up the same amount of space. I've had one for the last 7 years and love it.

These self inflating pads gives you both comfort and insulation! I dont have one, but have been camping with some friends that use them and they say they are well worth the money.

Backpacker since the 1970s here. Recommend you substitute this for your sleeping bag and this for your shelter, OP. Delete the hammock and extra blankets. Add a simple foam pad to insulate you from heat losses into the ground. That combo will save you about $9, and will keep you warmer.

Select a real pack with a real hip belt from this list. Get black or gray. "Tacticool" packs will attract too much attention from local law enforcement if SHTF. Also if you want to test your gear on a backpacking trip (and you should), you will look like a more sane person on the trail. If you want gear that blends into the environment check out hunting gear, not paramilitary gear.

We got a Klymit Double V last fall and have enjoyed it on two trips. Think we spent $110 (got it on sale - it’s $130 now). It’s only got a 1.6 R value but on the plus, it’s a decent size, very light, pretty tough, and has some nice loft. https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01K5GAQ9I/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1518425963&sr=8-3&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=klymit+double+v&dpPl=1&dpID=41U%2BTDEJngL&ref=plSrch

I know it's not freezing out, but keep in mind your layering. I'm a cold weather wimp (from Arizona) that likes winter camping and my big takeaway is dress in layers. Sweatpants under a pair of waxed canvas work pants will keep you toasty all night long no matter who you are. Don't get an air mattress because there's too much air to heat up so you'll always be sleeping on a bed of cold air. Get a good inflatable mattress pad. (Hell, a cheap one with good reviews will do, like this.. )

Certainly not the lowest price ever according to CamelCamelCamel, but it's a good deal this time of year if you're looking for a 4-season pad that gets recommended on this sub regularly. I assume they're price matching BackCountry, so that's a good place to buy as well if you don't have Prime or are anti-Amazon.

If you don't need much warmth, the cheap pads on Amazon ([1] (https://www.amazon.com/Sleepingo-Camping-Sleeping-Pad-Backpacking/dp/B07FP4Z3RZ/), 2) will get the job done. They're light and decently comfortable; very similar in construction to the uninsulated klymit static V, just off brand and a little cheaper. Wouldn't recommend pushing them much below ~45-50 on their own (supplementing with a light ccf is always an option to push them a little further).

If you need a little insulation, the insulated static V is a good budget option. Or if you're comfortable enough on CCF then you've got plenty of cheap options.

The Argon .67 with side zipper is $90 IIRC. Seems like a smoking deal.

In most circumstances, I wouldn't be considering a cuben bivy. But I've already cut weight everywhere else I can think of - I'm currently experimenting with replacing my NeoAir with the Gossamer Gear 1/8" Thinlight pad or a torso-length Z Lite Sol in the name of saving a few ounces. It looks like the cuben-bottom bivy would save ~1.55 ounces over the silnylon-bottom version.

However, folks appear to be having good results using the silnylon version WITHOUT a groundsheet. The weight savings and convenience of leaving behind the polycryo is probably enough to offset the weight savings of the cuben. I wouldn't expect any cuben to last long between me and the ground without some sort of groundsheet for protection.

Yeah! a fold up memory pad from amazon!

edit: looked up more options! "Cot pad" "sleeping pad"

And THIS looks perfect!!!

I use the Thermarest Trail Scout (regular length) and my husband has the same pad but in long. It has an R value of 3.4 and we find it comfortable, light, and packs down fairly small.

https://www.amazon.com/Therm-A-Rest-6430-Parent-Therm-a-Rest-Trail-Mattress/dp/B00HZ141IO

https://www.rei.com/product/865152/therm-a-rest-trail-scout-sleeping-pad

https://youtu.be/5R9sWvriSrw

If you're looking for cheap pads, I just bought (haven't gotten it yet) the trail scout on amazon. It's $31 and 14oz for the small- definitely a basic pad, but it has awesome reviews everywhere I looked.

Camping self inflating sleeping pad. The thin ones can be bought for $30 at Walmart. 6ft long, and they're slippery enough you can slide up and down them on your back.
They're designed to keep you off of the ground/ rocks while tenting, but work great for outside automotive. A buddy of mine always keeps one in his work's service truck.

Never used this one, just an example.
https://www.amazon.com/Coleman-Sleeping-Self-Inflating-Camping-Pillow/dp/B00BF9IYO4?crid=1PZDAJX87LOTW&keywords=tent+mattress&qid=1536680184&sprefix=tent+mat&sr=8-4&ref=mp_s_a_1_4

>I have 50ft of paracord, which was actually the smallest amount that company sold it in. I suppose I could cut it down.

50 ft is probably fine. It looked like a lot more from the picture for some reason.

>Won't sleeping mats add a lot more weight?

Not really.

• Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol Ultralight Foam Backpacking Mattress Folds up, but still bulky. Only 14 oz.
  
• Klymit Static V Lightweight Sleeping Pad Compresses and folds up quiet a bit. It is 18.6 oz though. This is what I sleep on when I go backpacking and find it very comfortable.

I have the Klymit Static V. Better than a foam pad. Packs down small. Within your budget. https://www.amazon.com/Klymit-Static-Lightweight-Sleeping-Green/dp/B007RFG0NM/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1499701452&sr=8-3&keywords=klymit+static+v

My "go to" is my Exped SynMat 7. Packs small. Very comfortable. Built in pump. But outside your budget but worth the money IMO. https://www.amazon.com/Exped-SynMat-Sleeping-Terracotta-Long/dp/B0018MC976/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1499701508&sr=8-3&keywords=exped+mat

Hey - I happen to have an Insulated V Ultralite SL pad (amazon). I bought it about a month ago to use for a trip I had planned in mid-Feb, but that trip fell through and I'm outside the return window. It's $80 from Amazon but I'll sell it to you for $50 shipped. 16ish ounces. Let me know if you're interested!

Edit: can't spell

Hmm, in that case you might just have to get a bigger one and cut it down. The "small" size is $26 on Amazon right now which is pretty cheap in the grand scheme of outdoor gear.

https://www.amazon.com/Lightspeed-Outdoors-Inflating-Sleep-Green/dp/B01JN5JGGQ

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Don't spend more then you have too. Best bang for your buck. I'm a side sleeper and have had zero issues with this.

I am same dimensions exactly and a side sleeper, Purchased the Thermarest NeoAir Xtherm Large and sleep great on it. While on back arms fall off, The same in X-Light would probably be similar.

sleeping mat ftw i got mine last year and it was beyond comfy https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01FELZ3TW/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

10x10 canopy with 2 walls to block where the sun rises and a tent underneath. Camping Mat in the tent with a pillow and sleeping bag. Sub out the sleeping bag for a sheet if it's hot that weekend. Ear plugs and a sleeping mask. After multiple different setups and multiple different festivals I've found this to be the most effective for actually getting some decent sleep

This is 47” x 74” x 3”

Klymit Double V Sleeping Pad, 2 Person, Double Wide (47 inches), Lightweight Comfort for Car Camping, Two Person Tents, Travel, and Backpacking https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01K5GAQ9I/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_415qDbQBAC0XW

I've had no issues with my Z-Rest. Used it on a thru-hike of the PCT. I love it because it's easy to toss out midday to keep your sweaty ass off the ground.

http://www.amazon.com/Therm-A-Rest-ZLITE-Therm-a-Rest-Lite-Mattress/dp/B001QWKWC2

Oh okay, I think I see the one youre talking about. I cant seem to find one for $35, but this is the same thing right?
https://www.amazon.com/Klymit-Static-Lightweight-Sleeping-Green/dp/B00BLIGW2U/ref=nav_custrec_signin?ie=UTF8&qid=1485389386&sr=8-1&keywords=Static%2BV%2Bair%2Bmattress&th=1

I like the idea/design, but I'm a cheapass.

I found this for cheaper KingCamp DELUXE DOUBLE Self-Inflating Camping Pad

Anyone have experience with it, or see any issues with it?

Sorry, I meant to "Z-lite". This one:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B001QWKWC2

It's made of closed cell foam, do punctures are not a problem.

This sucka: https://www.amazon.com/KLYMIT-Static-Double-Sleeping-Charcoal/dp/B01K5GAQ9I

It's this one. Costco has it every summer for 35-40 bucks.

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https://www.amazon.com/Lightspeed-Outdoors-Inflating-Sleep-Green/dp/B01JN5JGGQ

What about one of those self inflating camping foam pads? Like this.

This, or you can buy a cot pad for a cot without an included pad.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BF9IYO4

Thermarest NeoAir Xtherm regular is currently on sale for $169.99 on Amazon right now!

this is what I use. The 3/4 length version is a little cheaper and lighter.

I have this in an Extra Large, it blows an air mattress out of the water. https://www.amazon.com/ALPS-Mountaineering-Comfort-Air-Pad/dp/B000MNBLY4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1469790902&sr=8-1&keywords=alps+mountaineering+pad

I just bought this: https://www.amazon.com/Sleeping-Pad-Armrest-Pillow-Backpacking/dp/B075Y3SQ6W/ref=sr_1_4?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1523369595&sr=1-4&keywords=self+inflating+sleeping+pad+pillow

I have NOT used it yet, but the reviews seem decent. It isn't the most compact thing in the world, but easily backpack-able. Also, it's cheap so if it sucks I won't really care. It'll just become my tag-alongs' sleeping pad. ;)

No, not for backpacking. We'll be car camping & have Lightspeed FlexForm Sleeping pad

I didn't look into quilts assuming sleeping bags are the norm. Is there an advantage to quilts over sleeping bags when it comes to car camping?

I use the [Alps Mountaineering] (http://www.amazon.com/ALPS-Mountaineering-Comfort-Air-Pad/dp/B000MNBLXU?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_search_detailpage), the one mentioned below. I am a big fan of them and got me and my girlfriend one for our camping trips. We have been on a handful of trips and we push the two together and use them as a big mattress. I have no complaints. I have never experienced any of the slippage problems mentioned. Storage wise for a air mattress that size, I can get it down to a reasonable size. Weight I have no issues with, and because I push two together my girlfriend and I have no problems staying on them. With the self inflate I give it about another 10-12 breaths, and Its perfect. Setup and take-down time is easily 1-2 minutes

If you are going to get a cheap/budget pad - check out the Klymit brand. They have a double size one for the same price as that KingCamp brand (which is basically a no-name crappy option).

https://www.amazon.com/Klymit-Double-Lightweight-Sleeping-Pad/dp/B01K5GAQ9I/