If you want to have a comfortable and warm night’s sleep while camping, don’t settle for an uncomfortable air mattress. In this guide, we will provide useful tips to help you conquer the cold by finding out how to keep the mattress warm during your next camping adventure. With these tricks and tips you’ll be able to ensure that your camping trips are always comfortable and never cold.
Does Sleeping on an Air Mattress Make You Colder?
It’s no secret that air mattresses are the go-to option for camping. They’re lightweight, easy to transport and set up, and provide a comfortable sleep after a long day of outdoor activities. But when temperatures drop at night, it can be difficult to stay warm while sleeping on it. Cold air seeps through the mattress. But this doesn’t have to be the case.
What To Put Under and Over An Air Mattress While Camping?
Underneath the mattress, put a layer of insulation such as foam or woolen blanket to help provide warmth and cushioning. On top, ensure you have a thick sleeping bag or blanket to help trap heat and keep warmth close to your body.
Invest in an insulated sleeping pad that fits underneath the mattress for extra warmth. They are designed specifically for winter camping and will add a layer of comfort and insulation.
Finally, wearing thermal underwear and socks while camping can keep body temperature warmer for longer periods of time. This will trap heat in without having to turn the heater on constantly. With these tips in mind, you should be able to stay nice and cozy!
Things to Put Under an Air Mattress
Here are a few ideas for putting under the air mattress to create some insulation and increase heat retention:
- Foam Mats – They are great for providing additional cushioning to an air mattress as well as helping to keep the temperature regulated. Place one or more foam mats underneath the mattress before inflating it.
- Reflective Blankets – You can also use reflective blankets or reflective tarp material beneath the mattress to keep it warmer by reflecting body heat back up into the mattress.
- Blankets – If you have access to a few blankets, these can be used as insulation and will help retain warmth against cold ground temperatures. Lay out the blankets first and then place the mattress on top of them before inflating.
- Insulated Air Mattresses – As an added measure of protection, consider investing in an insulated mattress that comes with its own layer or insulation built-in. These are designed to keep your body warm while sleeping, so they’re great for camping trips when temperatures drop at night.
Things to Put Over an Air Mattress
These items are lightweight and easy to pack. A sleeping bag is an obvious thing you can use. A good, thick sleeping bag should provide plenty of insulation. Layering blankets or quilts on top of the sleeping bag could also be helpful if you need additional warmth.
Another option is to use an insulated camping mattress pad. The best ones will be made from quality materials such as cotton or down fill for superior warmth and comfort.
Lastly, you can put a tarp over the mattress. Tarps have the added benefit of protecting the mattress from dirt, water, and other elements while also providing extra warmth on chilly nights. Simply lay the tarp over the top and secure it in place with rocks or heavier objects on either side to minimize drafts coming through the sides.
How to Keep an Air Mattress Warm When Camping
The colder months can really put a damper on camping trips. While the brisk air and changing leaves make for beautiful scenery, sleeping on a mattress in these temperatures can be downright uncomfortable.
Invest in an insulated pad or blanket. This will add another layer of warmth between you and the cold ground and help maintain a comfortable temperature all night long.
Another way is by using a closed-cell foam pad or mattress. You can also opt to bring an extra blanket or two to sleep with on top of the mattress.
Finally, remember that it’s important to always dress warmly at night while camping. Wearing layers is key and will help the body retain heat even if temperatures drop during the night. Investing in a good bag rated for cold weather is also recommended since most standard bags won’t provide enough warmth in sub-zero temperatures.
Position the Air Mattress Correctly
Ensure to keep the mattress off the ground and on a flat surface. This will insulate it, and give you a much warmer sleeping experience. Additionally, ensure to use a high-quality bag or blanket to further insulate your body heat against the cold outside.
Top the Barriers with Cold-Blocking Foams
You can layer the mattress with a foam pad or other insulating material – like an old blanket, rug, sleeping bag, or even some bubble wrap. Place the foam on top of your inflatable mattress before you place your sheets and blankets down. This will act as a barrier between you and the cold surface beneath you while providing insulation. Additionally, ensure that there’s no gap between the edge of the mattress and the foam; any space here is an invitation for cold air to come in and chill everything else around it!
Try to pitch your tent in an area where there’s plenty of sun during the day– this will keep the temperature inside nice and comfortable. Additionally, avoid pitching near bodies of water as moisture from these sources can quickly cool down the air around your tent!
Cover it with a Thick Layer of Blankets
This will provide insulation that will help keep the heat in, preventing your body heat from escaping into the cold night air. You can also opt for thermal blankets or sleeping bags designed specifically for colder temperatures. If you’re really serious about keeping your bed nice and toasty, consider investing in an insulated foam pad or an inflatable mattress as well. Layering them all together should be enough to trap any warmth that gets generated throughout the night.
Use Warm Water to Heat
Fill a bucket with warm water and submerge the mattress in it. This will instantly raise the temperature of the mattress. Ensure to drain any excess water from the mattress before using it. You can also fill an inflatable pool with warm water and place the mattress inside for added warmth.
Cold-Weather Sleeping Bag
If you don’t have an insulated air mattress, or if the mattress isn’t thick enough to provide sufficient insulation for winter camping, then using a sleeping bag specifically designed for cold weather is the way to go. If possible, try and choose one that has an insulated hood as this can trap heat around your head and neck area. You can also look into getting a bivy sack which is essentially a waterproof outer layer that goes over the bag to provide extra insulation from the ground.
If you’re planning on camping in really cold temperatures then it might be worth looking into getting an ultra-lightweight sleeping bag which is specifically designed for colder climates. These bags are usually filled with high-loft insulation such as down, or synthetic insulation, and they can provide the highest level of warmth. They also tend to be quite lightweight and compressible.
Mattress Topper
Toppers come in different materials such as foam or synthetic down, so be sure to get one that’s suitable for the climate you’re camping in. Some things to consider when choosing a mattress topper include the thickness (thicker for colder climates) and breathability of the material (important if it’s going to be used in hot weather). Ensure the topper fits snugly over the mattress, too! Once you have it on there, use blankets or sleeping bags on top of it for added warmth.
Electric Blanket
An electric blanket can be a great way to keep your air mattress warm when camping. Ensure the power cord is long enough to reach the electricity source, and that it’s kept away from moisture or water. Make sure you use an electric blanket that is designed for outdoor use, as regular indoor electric blankets are not safe for outdoor camping conditions. To ensure maximum comfort and warmth, consider using both an insulated air mattress cover and an electric blanket together for optimal heat retention.
Camping Pad
A camping pad can help to provide some insulation between the mattress and the ground, helping keep your body heat in. A camping pad is a foam or other material that you place between the air mattress and the ground. This helps reduce the conduction of heat from your body to the cold ground. Look for a camping pad with an R-value of 5 or higher for the best results. Consider investing in an insulated mattress with an integrated camping pad to ensure you stay warm during cold nights.
Hand Warmers
The good news is that there are a few different ways to keep the mattress warm. One of the most popular methods is using hand warmers. Hand warmers come in several different shapes and sizes, but all of them work the same way: you place them under your air mattress, and they use body heat to create warmth. You can buy hand warmers at any camping store or online, and they’re easy to use — just make sure to follow instructions carefully! It’ll also provide extra cushioning for those uncomfortable rocks and roots underneath the ground. Another bonus of using hand warmers is that you won’t have to worry about running out of fuel for your camping stove. Just make sure to replace the warmers regularly, so they don’t lose their heat over time.
Ways to Warm Air Mattress while Camping!
- Use a Heated Mattress Cover: This type of cover is designed with heating elements that run off electricity or batteries, and provide warmth to the mattress without needing an extra heat source. With this option, you can set the temperature as high or low as you need for optimal comfort during your camping trip.
- Layer Your Bedding: Layering your bedding is another way. Start by using an insulated mattress pad on top of the mattress; this will trap heat and make it more efficient at warming up quickly when sleeping in cold temperatures. Then add blankets, comforters and other cozy items on top. This will trap your body heat and block the cold air from getting to you.
- Use a Heated Blanket: A heated blanket runs off electricity or batteries, which makes it perfect for outdoor use when there’s no access to plug-in power sources. Simply turn it on before bed and enjoy its comforting warmth throughout the night!
- Set up Near Campfire or Stove: The heat generated by these sources will radiate around your tent, providing you with a cozy sleep environment. Ensure to keep the fire contained in a designated area and away from flammable materials for safety reasons.
Place Blankets or Sheets between your Air Mattress
This will prevent heat from dissipating into the ground, meaning that you’ll be able to maintain a more comfortable sleeping temperature.
Additionally, consider using an insulated mattress pad if available. This will help to provide insulation even when temperatures dip during the night.
Make Use of a Mattress Topper
A topper is a great way to increase the temperature of the mattress. It adds an extra layer of insulation, trapping the warmth that would otherwise be lost inside the mattress as it escapes into the cold night air. You can get an inexpensive foam or down-filled topper. Ensure you buy one that’s big enough for your bed so there are no gaps in coverage.
DIY Options
If you’re looking for a DIY option, then there are some options available. One of the most popular is to create your own insulation by purchasing materials like Reflectix or bubble wrap and cutting them into squares that fit inside the air mattress. Additionally, placing a piece of foam underneath the mattress can also help trap warm air and make sure it doesn’t escape. Finally, if you want to take extra measures, try filling old socks with rice or dry beans and place them around the edges of the mattress for added warmth.
Another DIY option is to get creative with what you already have on hand. If you have a large blanket or quilt lying around, drape it over the top of the mattress. This will trap in warm air and keep you cozy. Additionally, if you have an extra sleeping bag or other insulating material, lay that on top of your bedding.
Make use of a Heating Pad
Heating pads can be easily purchased online or in stores and are usually powered by electricity. Simply place the heating pad underneath the mattress, plug it in, and enjoy a cozy night’s sleep! It’s important to note that the heating pad should be placed beneath the air mattress, not on top of it, as this can cause damage to the bedding as well as burn marks on your skin. Additionally, make sure you have access to a power outlet nearby.
Wear Extra Pair of Clothes
Make sure to dress in layers so that you can easily adjust your body temperature and stay comfortable during the night. For example, a light thermal top and pair of long johns can be worn over a short-sleeved shirt or T-shirt. Also, don’t forget to bring a hat and gloves with you on your camping trip.
Another thing you should consider when wearing extra clothes while camping is whether or not they are waterproof. While this isn’t an issue if you’re camping in your backyard, it can be a concern when sleeping in the great outdoors. Ensure to bring along waterproof jackets and pants just in case you happen to encounter some wet weather during your stay.
Finally, make sure to invest in a good pair of camping boots or insulated socks. In addition, they’ll also protect your feet from any sharp objects or dirt that may be found around campsites.
Sleeping Bag for Cold Weather
A sleeping bag is an essential item when camping in colder climates. It acts as an insulator between you and the air mattress, trapping your body heat to keep up the warmth of the mattress. When choosing a bag for cold weather, look for one with a temperature rating that suits your climate – if you’re camping somewhere particularly cold, look for bags rated down to zero degrees Celsius or lower. Additionally, consider investing in a synthetic material or down-filled bag that will retain more heat than standard fabric ones.
Sleeping Pad of Foam
The foam prevents heat from escaping and keeps the air inside the mattress warmer for longer. It also cushions you while sleeping, providing additional comfort. You can purchase a pad at any outdoor supply store or online. Ensure to buy one that’s large enough to cover the entire surface area of the mattress. For added protection, consider buying a thermal blanket to place over top of the foam pad before inflating the mattress. Finally, ensure your pad is securely placed underneath the mattress and that it doesn’t move around. This will ensure the greatest amount of insulation possible. [1]
FAQ
How do I keep my air mattress warm while camping?
Keeping the mattress warm is easy if you follow the right tips.
- Invest in a high quality insulated air mattress: Look for a mattress with several layers of insulation, such as synthetic or down fillings.
- Use sleeping bags or blankets on top of the mattress: A thick bag or blanket can trap in more body heat and make your bed much cozier. Make sure to use breathable fabrics like wool or cotton so you don’t overheat while sleeping.
- Use a heated mattress pad: Set the temperature to your desired level before you get in bed.
- Place a hot water bottle or heating pad underneath the mattress: This is an old, but effective, trick for keeping a mattress warm.
- Bring extra blankets with you on your camping trip: Extra blankets can be used as additional insulation when outdoors. [2]
Keep in mind that air mattresses are designed to be lightweight and easy to transport, so it’s important not to overpack too many items or your trip will become more cumbersome.
Why am I so cold sleeping on an air mattress?
There are several different things that you can do in order to ensure that your mattress stays as warm as possible. These include:
- Using an insulated sleeping mat or blanket: An insulated sleeping mat or blanker placed on top of the mattress will provide extra warmth. These can be bought cheaply at many camping stores.
- Wearing warm clothing to bed: It’s best to wear long johns or other thermal underwear, as well as a fleece or wool jumper and trousers.
- Setting up camp in warmer areas: If there is a specific area that happens to be warmer than the surrounding area then this could be a good spot for your tent. Ensure you take into account any windy spots when choosing a site and try to find one that has some tree cover where possible.
- Packing extra blankets: Ensure to pack a few extra blankets when you go camping in case the nights are really cold.
However, it’s always worth remembering that no matter how well prepared you are, it might still get quite cold so ensure you’re wrapped up warm!
Is it safe to use a heating blanket on an air mattress?
You’ll want to ensure your mattress is comfortable and warm, so it’s only natural to consider using a heating blanket under the mattress. However, this isn’t recommended as there are potential safety issues. Heating blankets can cause too much heat for an air mattress that doesn’t have enough insulation, which could lead to overheating or even fire.
Instead of using a heating blanket, try these tips outlined in our guide:
- Use a sleeping pad or foam mattress under the air mattress
- Layer bedding like blankets and comforters over the top of the mattress
- Place extra items like pillows and stuffed animals on the mattress to create a layer of warmth
- Place your air mattress in an area that is sheltered from wind and cold
- Invest in a camping heater. [3]
These tips will help make sure you’re able to stay warm without putting yourself or your air mattress at risk of overheating. So enjoy a comfortable sleep without worrying about safety!
Are airbeds cold for camping?
Yes, airbeds can be cold for camping, especially if you are camping in cooler weather. You can try different strategies and tips to keep your airbed warm. [4]
Useful Video: Gear To AVOID! And What You Should Get Instead
Conclusion
In conclusion, keeping your air mattress warm when camping will help to ensure you a good night’s sleep. There are several ways you can achieve this, such as using an insulation pad or mat, sleeping bags, heating pads and blankets. Additionally, being aware of the environment around you and ensuring that it is properly ventilated is also important for regulating temperatures. Finally, be sure to let your air mattress fully inflate before use and look for any potential leaks. With these simple steps in mind, you’ll be able to keep your mattress warm while camping with ease! Happy (and warm) camping!
References:
- https://www.byways.org/how-to-keep-an-air-mattress-warm-when-camping/
- https://www.thecampdiary.com/keep-air-mattress-warm-when-camping/
- https://www.sleepseeker.co.uk/blog/electric-blankets-air-beds
- https://decideoutside.com/can-you-use-an-air-mattress-for-winter-camping/