What are the differences between moisture-proof mats, sleeping mats and picnic mats and how to choose them

When they first get into camping, it is estimated that many people will have such a problem, that is, moisture-proof mats, sleeping mats, and picnic mats are all called moisture-proof mats. There is no clear distinction. Do you need to buy these types of things called mats?

Today I will share it with you based on my own experience. Friends who need it can pay attention~

First of all, why are they called moisture-proof mats?

It is because they all have the same characteristics of anti-friction, warmth and moisture-proof. Secondly, it is to better summarize and understand and enrich the types of moisture-proof mats. If each mat has a scientific name, this is really complicated.

How to correctly understand moisture-proof mats, and what is the difference between picnic mats and sleeping mats?

First, let’s take a look at what equipment is needed for a warm and moisture-proof camping shelter:

Starting from the ground and counting from bottom to top, it can be divided into 4 layers. Adjust it to 3 layers according to your own situation:

The order is: Moisture-proof mat/ground mat—>Tent base fabric—>Moisture-proof mat—>Sleeping mat.

Or: Moisture-proof mat -> Tent base fabric -> Sleeping pad. You can choose this according to your own habits or needs.

First layer: floor mat, moisture-proof mat

This layer has three main functions: to prevent the tent bottom fabric from being scratched by ground debris; to prevent ground moisture from entering the tent; and to avoid soiling the tent bottom fabric. If the ground mat has a good moisture-proof function, the third layer of moisture-proof mat can be used omit.

Second layer: tent base fabric

(Updated to eliminate ambiguity, the tent bottom fabric refers to the bottom of the tent, which is the bottom piece of cloth of the tent. There is no need to purchase the tent bottom fabric separately)

The third layer: Moisture-proof pad

If only the ground mat is used in the first layer and the moisture-proof ability is not enough or no moisture-proof mat is used, it is recommended to add a layer of moisture-proof mat inside the tent, so that the moisture-proof effect is better. No one wants to wake up with sore backs and legs.

The fourth layer: sleeping pad

The core function of a sleeping mat is to sleep comfortably without being disturbed by debris or pebbles on the ground. Improving the quality of the entire camping cannot be replaced by a thin moisture-proof mat, especially when camping with children. First of all, let’s introduce that camping sleeping pads can be roughly divided into three types: foam sleeping pads, inflatable sleeping pads, and self-inflating sleeping pads.

How to choose moisture-proof mat, picnic mat, sleeping mat

1. Moisture-proof mat

My experience is that you can just buy the cheapest one. The aluminum film moisture-proof mat is very light, easy to take care of, and easy to carry. Although it is easily damaged, it is cheap and can be replaced at any time, and it is laid on the tent. No need for good looks underneath.

There is also an egg-nest moisture-proof mat, which is a little more expensive, and its thickness and comfort are much better than the aluminum film moisture-proof mat. But for people like me who are afraid of the cold, I will not sleep directly on this kind of moisture-proof mat. I want to If you buy a sleeping pad, there is no need to use this kind of moisture-proof pad. I personally feel that this kind of egg nest moisture-proof pad is more suitable for hiking and camping.

2. Picnic mat

It can be said that the picnic mat has nothing to do with the mats used for sleeping in tents. It is a velvet (or acrylic) fabric with a waterproof bottom configured for picnics. It can be spread out at any time outdoors, providing a neat and tidy place for picnics or leisure. space.

Therefore, picnic mats are very beautiful, come in rich colors, are moisture-proof, comfortable and easy to clean. At the end of the picnic trip, there will be some stains on the mats, which will greatly affect the nature of the next picnic, so it is best to choose ones that can be used directly Put it in the washing machine to clean.

The picnic mat adopts the integrated folding design popular in Europe and the United States. It can be easily folded back to its original shape by following the creases on the seat cushion. There are various styles, such as handbag type, cylindrical type, handbag type, etc., making it easy to carry.

3. Sleeping pad

The sleeping mat mentioned here is the equipment that allows you to sleep while camping and enjoy the treatment like at home. Nowadays, it is generally called an outdoor mattress or an air mattress.

inflatable sleeping pad

You must blow in the air yourself or use an air pump to inflate the inflatable sleeping mat. There is only air inside the sleeping mat. The air layer can slow down heat conduction and isolate the body from contact with the cold ground, making it more suitable for use in cold environments. The inflatable sleeping pad is also very simple to store, small in size and easy to carry.

Automatic inflatable sleeping pad

The self-inflating sleeping pad contains open-cell foam, which can automatically expand the sleeping pad, allowing the sleeping pad to absorb air to create thickness. There is usually an air inlet and outlet. When you open it, the sleeping pad will start to inflate, and then the air vent is locked so that the air does not escape when you lie on the mattress. When storing, open the air vent, squeeze out the air while rolling up the sleeping pad, and finally lock the air vent to prevent air from entering the sleeping pad again.

Sleeping mats really are something you pay for. A good air mattress can give you the feeling of a mattress at home. Especially for people who have high requirements for sleep or sleeping mats, they must choose one when camping out. Good mattress