Self-inflating mattress for camping?

[TheFied]

Got back from a camping trip this weekend and one of my friends had a "self-inflating mattress". It was like a very thin air mattress. You don't need a pump to blow it up; it inflates automatically. Anyone try this? What makes it work?

I have an egg crate ~1-2" mattress that I used but thought the one he had was neat.

 

[chuychanga]

Here they are.

My dad has one and likes it. I still use the closed cell foam pad with ridges on it, by Thermarest. I worry about puncturing the inflatable one, but my dad has had his for about 5 years or so with probably several dozen nights slept on it out under the stars and he hasn't punctured it yet. I guess I'm low-tech.

 

[badexcuse]

They work just fine, and if you're impactient you can blow for a couple of minutes to inflate. Otherwise it takes a while. Here's the one I have.

Alps Mountaineering Pad

 

[Brak]

Thermarest is the standard for these types of mattresses. They self inflate because the insides have some type of internal baffles that pushes the mattress open when you lay it out. You do have to blow some air in it to completely fill it. They have pads for car camping well as ultra light ones for backpacking.

 

[Alum03]

Get the REI brand.

 

[NickDanger]

Thermarest is mainly for warmth. For comfort and a few minutes of puffing, Big Agnes is the ****.

 

[Hornin Hong Kong]

I like the thermarest but you have to puff it some.