Isolate yourself from the ground

The equipment that significantly simplifies sleeping in nature includes sleeping mats. These, along with sleeping bags, are among the most common gear. However, as we will discuss further, not all sleeping mats are the same. Regardless of the specific type, sleeping mats have two primary purposes: increasing comfort during sleep and isolating from the ground.

The modern sleeping mat was created in 1966, when it was introduced to the market by the British company Karrimor. It was from their name that the term for this portable mattress was derived, initially causing Czech forest adventurers to turn up their noses, until they tried it.

Comfortable sleep

Materials have naturally advanced to this day, and along with new manufacturing technologies and processes, you get even more comfort than customers of Karrimor could enjoy more than half a century ago. Although old worn-out mattresses from parents evoke the right nostalgia, modern sleeping mats are lighter, the self-inflating technology is more advanced, and the whole thing is much more compact, making the mat easier to carry in or on a backpack.

Foam mats are still a classic, but you can also choose from self-inflating and inflatable models. With foam mats, you can choose whether the mat rolls up or folds up during transport. With a folding mat, you don't have to worry as much about an extra seat pad, but if you’re going into nature for just one day and don’t plan to sleep there, it’s helpful to have an extra seat pad on hand, which is even lighter and more compact.

Sit (almost) anywhere you want

A cushion or seat pad will protect you from unnecessary health issues in situations where you want to sit in nature… almost anywhere. Seat pads are usually foldable and take up virtually no space in a backpack. Breaks for food and drink or just "ordinary" views of the landscape will be much more comfortable with them. These seat pads are made of durable synthetic materials that are waterproof and non-slip. Some models also come with a practical case.