Air bed / self inflating mattress recommendation

[zed4]

Hi,

We're off camping this weekend and my air bed has split, so I need a replacement. I want something pretty good, so what do you recommend?

I've got quite a big tent (sleeping area is 215cm x 180cm) but I need something fairly compact to fit in the TVR.

I'm looking at either the Outwell Flock Excellent King, or the Outwell Cimelia Self Inflating Mattress system. I like the look of the self inflating mattress, but I'm concerned at the pack size! It appears to be three items, two mattresses and a memory foam cover, all in a bag which is quite large. I wonder if I could fit the individual items in the TVR boot, as the package size is too big.

Has anyone used either of these?

Thanks,

Dan

[jep]

No direct experience of the 2 you look at, but have a look at Aerobed's Dan. They have a rechargeable pump or can work off an electric hook-up. Size when folded is pretty good, and they are comfy and durable.

Another alternative is Intex, but they need a hook-up or an inverter to the ciggy lighter. I've found them to be great value, and to be fair, I've never needed a mat underneath it.

[chopper602]

zed4 said:

I want something pretty good

Thermorest every time. Last for ever too

[A900ss]

It's not small but the Chim has a big boot so take a look at the Megamat 10. Not cheap but immensely comfortable.

Good luck.

[bearman68]

chopper602 said:

Thermorest every time. Last for ever too

Repeat as above. I personally don't like blow up mattresses - they seem to want to push you off in the night (or is that the wife). Thermorest don't do that, and is a much more natural sleep.

[AlfaPapa]

Thermorest or equivalent. You can't beat them for warmth, pack size and comfort.

Alpkit do a 'fat' version which is about as comfortable as they come (and half the price of a 'branded' mat):
https://www.alpkit.com/products/dozer

Or if that pack size looks too big, go for the Dirtbag.


Personally, I use a Thermarest Neoair which packs to less than the size of a coke can and is warm and REALLY comfortable. It's downside is it sounds like you're munching on a pack of crisps every time you turn over in the night.

[tenohfive]

AlfaPapa said:

Personally, I use a Thermarest Neoair which packs to less than the size of a coke can and is warm and REALLY comfortable. It's downside is it sounds like you're munching on a pack of crisps every time you turn over in the night.

This years model isn't as bad on that front, I'm a light sleeper and don't notice the noise. Very comfortable and incredibly light, great backpackers/wild campers mat.

Alpkit isn't a bad shout for car camping though.

[OneDs]

http://www.andescamping.co.uk/99435-black-andes-ex...

Just used these for the weekend and they were great, on top of a Kampa xl camp bed each it was more comfortable than the bed at home.