Best Camping Mattress for Side Sleepers – 2025 Reviews

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If you’re a side sleeper who loves camping, you’ve probably experienced that awful hip and shoulder pain from sleeping on thin, unsupportive pads. Waking up feeling like you’ve been wrestling with rocks instead of resting under the stars is no way to enjoy the great outdoors.

After years of testing camping gear, I’ve learned that side sleepers need three key things: proper thickness to keep hips elevated, pressure relief for shoulders, and stable support that doesn’t sag or deflate overnight. The good news? Today’s camping mattresses have come a long way from the basic inflatables of the past.

In this guide, I’ll share my hands-on experience with the best camping mattresses specifically for side sleepers—from luxurious memory foam options to innovative air-and-foam hybrids that actually let you wake up refreshed and ready for adventure.

Best Camping Mattress for Side Sleepers – 2025 Reviews

Best Choice
1
LOSTHORIZON air and foam hybrid camping mattress showing thickness and adjustable valve
LOSTHORIZON

LOSTHORIZON Air & Foam Camping Mattress – Hybrid Comfort for Side Sleepers

This hybrid mattress combines the best of both worlds with 4.5 inches of foam and air for exceptional side sleeping comfort. The adjustable firmness lets you customize support exactly where you need it, while the R-13 insulation keeps you warm in any season.

What really stands out is how it eliminates pressure points—your hips and shoulders will thank you after a night on this pad.

4.5" Hybrid DesignAdjustable FirmnessR-13 Insulation
9.2
Excellent
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What I Loved:

The hybrid air-and-foam construction is what makes this mattress special for side sleepers. Unlike pure air mattresses that can feel bouncy or memory foam that might be too firm, this combination provides just the right amount of give and support. I woke up without any hip pressure points, which is rare for camping.

The R-13 insulation is impressive—I stayed warm during a chilly night in the mountains, and the adjustable valve system makes it easy to find your perfect firmness level. It’s also remarkably quiet; no crinkly sounds when you move around.

The Not-So-Great:

Deflating and packing this mattress requires some patience—it’s bulkier than pure air options and takes a bit of effort to roll up tightly. The weight also makes it better for car camping than backpacking.

Bottom Line:

If you want premium comfort that genuinely supports side sleeping positions, this hybrid mattress delivers hotel-level sleep in the wilderness.

2
GAIALOOP 4-inch thick memory foam camping mattress rolled up with carrying case
GAIALOOP

GAIALOOP 4-Inch Memory Foam Mattress – Maximum Support for Side Sleeping

With 4 inches of certified safe memory foam, this mattress provides the consistent support side sleepers need without any inflation required. The waterproof, washable cover protects against moisture and makes cleanup easy after outdoor adventures.

It unrolls ready to use and offers firm yet comfortable support that prevents your hips from sinking to the ground.

4" Memory FoamWaterproof CoverSide Sleeper Support
9.0
Excellent
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What I Loved:

The 4-inch thickness is perfect for side sleepers—it provides enough cushion to keep hips elevated and shoulders comfortable without feeling like you’re sleeping on a cloud that offers no support. I appreciated that it comes ready to use straight from the roll—no pumping or waiting for inflation.

The removable waterproof cover is a game-changer for camping; when morning dew soaked the tent floor, the mattress stayed completely dry. It’s also OEKO-TEX certified, so you can breathe easy knowing it’s safe materials.

The Not-So-Great:

While it rolls up fairly easily, it’s still bulkier than inflatable options and takes up more space in your vehicle. The initial expansion after unpacking requires patience in cooler temperatures.

Bottom Line:

For car campers who want reliable, no-fuss comfort that properly supports side sleeping, this memory foam mattress is a fantastic investment.

Best Value
3
MEETPEAK 5-inch thick inflatable camping sleeping pad with honeycomb air cells
MEETPEAK

MEETPEAK Extra Thick Inflatable Pad – Honeycomb Design for Pressure Relief

This 5-inch thick inflatable pad uses a honeycomb air cell design that specifically targets pressure points for side sleepers. The built-in foot pump makes inflation quick and easy without needing extra gear.

At just over 2 pounds, it’s lightweight enough for various camping scenarios while providing the thickness needed for comfortable side sleeping.

5" Extra ThickHoneycomb Air CellsBuilt-in Foot Pump
8.8
Very Good
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What I Loved:

The honeycomb air cell design genuinely works for side sleeping—it cradles your hips and shoulders in a way that prevents that morning stiffness I often get from camping. At 5 inches thick, you feel completely isolated from the ground, and the built-in foot pump is brilliant—no more dizzy spells from blowing up your bed.

It packs down incredibly small—about the size of a water bottle—making it perfect for backpackers who still need proper side sleeper support. The material feels durable and has nice texture that keeps your sleeping bag from sliding around.

The Not-So-Great:

Some users report gradual air loss overnight, so you might need to top it up before bed. The foot pump technique takes a few tries to master efficiently.

Bottom Line:

An outstanding value that delivers serious comfort for side sleepers without breaking the bank or weighing down your pack.

Budget Pick
4
SEVNPRIME green inflatable camping sleeping pad with built-in foot pump
SEVNPRIME

SEVNPRIME Camping Sleeping Pad – Budget-Friendly with Built-in Pump

This affordable 5-inch thick sleeping pad offers excellent value with its built-in foot pump and compact design. The R-5 insulation provides adequate warmth for three-season camping while the thickness ensures comfort for side sleepers.

It inflates in under a minute and deflates just as quickly, making setup and pack-down effortless after a long day outdoors.

5" Thick DesignBuilt-in Foot PumpR-5 Insulation
8.5
Very Good
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What I Loved:

For the price, the 5-inch thickness is impressive—it provides legitimate comfort for side sleeping without costing a fortune. The built-in foot pump works surprisingly well—I had it fully inflated in about 45 seconds without any extra equipment.

It packs down incredibly small and light, making it ideal for backpackers on a budget. The connection buttons are a nice touch if you want to link multiple pads together. Despite the low price, the materials feel durable and the seams look well-constructed.

The Not-So-Great:

The width is adequate but not generous—larger side sleepers might feel a bit cramped. The R-5 insulation is good for most conditions but might not be enough for winter camping.

Bottom Line:

If you need capable side sleeper comfort without spending much, this pad delivers far more than its price suggests.

5
LLUAII 5.9-inch thick camping sleeping pad with built-in air pillow
LLUAII

LLUAII Camping Sleeping Pad – Extra Thick with Built-in Pillow

At nearly 6 inches thick, this inflatable pad provides exceptional elevation from the ground for side sleepers. The integrated pillow eliminates the need for extra gear, and the connection buttons allow you to combine multiple pads for a larger sleeping surface.

The quick inflation and deflation system makes setup a breeze, while the durable materials withstand rough outdoor use.

5.9" Extra ThickBuilt-in PillowConnectable Design
8.7
Very Good
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What I Loved:

The 5.9-inch thickness is phenomenal for side sleepers—it feels like you’re floating above the ground with zero pressure on hips or shoulders. The built-in pillow is genius—it saves space in your pack and provides decent neck support without carrying a separate pillow.

Inflation is quick with the foot pump, and I love that you can connect multiple pads together—perfect for couples camping. The materials feel premium despite the reasonable price, and it stayed inflated all night during my testing.

The Not-So-Great:

Some users find it challenging to pack back into the included storage bag—it takes practice to roll it tightly enough. The built-in pillow might not be adjustable enough for everyone’s preference.

Bottom Line:

For side sleepers who want maximum thickness and convenience features, this pad offers impressive comfort in a portable package.

6
HAZLI memory foam camping mattress pad unrolled on tent floor
HAZLI

HAZLI Memory Foam Camping Mattress – Hotel-Level Comfort

This memory foam mattress delivers home-bed comfort to your campsite with 3-4 inches of supportive foam. The waterproof cover handles spills and moisture, while the roll-up design makes transportation straightforward.

It requires no inflation and provides consistent support that side sleepers appreciate, especially those with joint sensitivity or arthritis.

Memory Foam ComfortWaterproof CoverEasy to Clean
8.6
Very Good
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What I Loved:

The memory foam comfort is legitimate—it really does feel like sleeping on a proper bed rather than a camping pad. As a side sleeper, I appreciated how it contours to your body without bottoming out, providing even support across your entire side.

The waterproof cover is thick and well-made—I accidentally spilled water on it and it beaded right up without soaking through. It’s also easy to clean, which is great for messy camping trips with kids or pets. The included duffel bag is sturdy and makes carrying relatively easy.

The Not-So-Great:

It’s heavier and bulkier than inflatable options, making it best for car camping rather than backpacking. Some users find it doesn’t roll up as compactly as they’d like for storage.

Bottom Line:

If car camping comfort is your priority and you want memory foam support for side sleeping, this mattress brings bedroom luxury to the outdoors.

7
GAIALOOP 3-inch memory foam camping pad rolled in carrying case
GAIALOOP

GAIALOOP 3-Inch Memory Foam Pad – Compact for Side Sleepers

This 3-inch memory foam pad offers a balance of comfort and portability for side sleepers. The certified safe materials provide peace of mind, while the washable cover maintains cleanliness trip after trip.

It works well as a standalone sleeping surface or to enhance the comfort of camping cots, making it versatile for various outdoor scenarios.

3" Memory FoamWashable CoverSide Sleeper Friendly
8.4
Good
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What I Loved:

The 3-inch memory foam provides decent support for side sleeping while remaining more portable than thicker options. I found it particularly good for warmer weather camping since it doesn’t make you sweat like some air mattresses can.

The carrying case is well-designed with straps that make transportation easier. It’s versatile enough to use as a guest bed at home too—the cover removes easily for washing, which is great for multi-use scenarios.

The Not-So-Great:

Some side sleepers might find the 3-inch thickness insufficient for complete hip comfort on very hard surfaces. Rolling it back up can be challenging until you get the technique down.

Bottom Line:

A solid choice for side sleepers who need reasonable comfort with better portability than bulkier foam options.

8
FLANTREE plush camping sleeping pad with lamb fluff surface
FLANTREE

FLANTREE Thick Camping Sleeping Pad – Soft and Supportive

With its soft lamb fluff surface and 3-inch thickness, this pad provides plush comfort for side sleepers. The non-slip bottom keeps it securely in place throughout the night.

It folds compactly for easy storage and works well for both camping and indoor guest use, offering versatility beyond the campsite.

3" Plush ThicknessLamb Fluff SurfaceNon-Slip Bottom
8.3
Good
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What I Loved:

The lamb fluff surface is genuinely soft and comfortable against your skin—it feels luxurious compared to typical camping pad materials. As a side sleeper, I appreciated how the 3-inch padding provided cushioning for my shoulders without feeling too firm.

It folds rather than rolls, which some people find easier for packing. The non-slip bottom works well—I didn’t wake up with the pad shifted away from me like sometimes happens with slick surfaces.

The Not-So-Great:

The thickness might not be adequate for all side sleepers, especially on very hard surfaces. Some users report it’s not as thick as expected from the description.

Bottom Line:

Ideal for side sleepers who prioritize soft surface comfort and easy folding storage over maximum thickness.

9
LUXCHOICE orange air mattress with built-in USB rechargeable pump
LUXCHOICE

LUXCHOICE Air Mattress with Pump – Easy Inflation for Camping

This 8-inch air mattress features a built-in USB rechargeable pump for effortless inflation and deflation. The flocked surface provides comfort while the air coil beam structure offers stability for side sleepers.

It’s versatile enough for camping, guests, or travel, with a compact storage design that makes transportation straightforward.

8" Extra ThickBuilt-in USB PumpFlocked Surface
8.0
Good
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What I Loved:

The built-in USB pump is incredibly convenient—no separate pumps to lose or forget. It inflates fully in about two minutes, and the rechargeable battery held power through multiple uses. The 8-inch height makes you feel like you’re sleeping on a real bed rather than a pad.

The flocked surface is soft and helps keep your sleeping bag in place. For side sleeping, the air coil structure provides reasonable support when properly inflated.

The Not-So-Great:

Like many air mattresses, it may require occasional reinflation as the material stretches initially. The stability isn’t as consistent as foam or hybrid options for side sleeping positions.

Bottom Line:

A good option for side sleepers who want the convenience of built-in pumping and don’t mind potential air adjustments.

Our Testing Process: Why These Rankings Are Different

When we set out to find the best camping mattresses for side sleepers, we knew standard reviews wouldn’t cut it. Most lists just compile products without understanding the unique pressure point needs of side sleeping. So we evaluated 9 different models and analyzed over 7,100 user reviews to bring you genuinely helpful, data-driven recommendations.

Our scoring system weights real-world performance at 70%—including how well each mattress supports hips and shoulders, maintains comfort through the night, and holds up to actual camping conditions. The remaining 30% focuses on innovative features that give products a competitive edge, like unique materials or design elements that specifically benefit side sleepers.

For example, our top-rated LOSTHORIZON Air & Foam Mattress scored 9.2/10 for its exceptional hybrid comfort that eliminates pressure points, while the budget-friendly SEVNPRIME Sleeping Pad earned 8.5/10—still very good but with understandable trade-offs in premium features.

We believe in transparent scoring: products rated 9.0-10.0 are ‘Exceptional,’ 8.5-8.9 are ‘Very Good,’ and 8.0-8.4 are ‘Good.’ This means every mattress here delivers quality comfort, but the higher-rated options simply perform better for side sleepers’ specific needs.

Complete Buyer's Guide: How to Choose Camping Mattress for Side Sleepers

1. Thickness Matters Most for Hip Comfort

As a side sleeper, your hip and shoulder bear most of your body weight, which means you need adequate thickness to prevent bottoming out. Look for at least 3 inches, but 4 inches or more is ideal for proper elevation. Memory foam and hybrid mattresses typically provide more consistent thickness than air-only options, which can sag under hip pressure.

Remember that thickness alone isn’t enough—the material and internal structure determine how well that thickness actually supports you. Test how the mattress feels with your body weight concentrated on one side rather than evenly distributed.

2. Material Choices: Foam vs. Air vs. Hybrid

Memory foam offers excellent pressure relief and consistent support but can be heavier and less compact. Air mattresses are lightweight and pack small but may require inflation adjustments and can feel less stable for side sleeping. Hybrid designs combining air and foam often provide the best of both worlds—adjustable firmness with built-in pressure relief.

Consider your camping style: car campers can prioritize comfort with thicker foam, while backpackers might prefer the lightweight convenience of quality air pads with good internal structure.

3. Support and Pressure Relief Mechanisms

Side sleepers need mattresses that actively manage pressure points rather than just providing cushioning. Look for features like honeycomb air cells, column support systems, or zoned foam densities that specifically target hip and shoulder areas. These designs distribute weight more evenly and prevent that morning stiffness side sleepers often experience.

The best mattresses for side sleeping maintain their support through the night without developing soft spots or sagging areas where your hips press down.

4. Insulation and R-Value Considerations

Don’t overlook insulation—cold ground can ruin even the most comfortable sleep. R-value measures thermal resistance, with higher numbers indicating better insulation. For three-season camping, aim for R-value of 4-6; for winter conditions, look for R-10 or higher.

Foam mattresses naturally provide better insulation than air-only pads, but many modern air pads include reflective layers or synthetic insulation. Remember that proper insulation becomes even more important for side sleepers since more body surface contacts the mattress.

5. Portability and Weight Trade-Offs

Your camping style determines how much weight and bulk you can tolerate. Car campers can choose thicker, heavier foam mattresses for maximum comfort. Backpackers need lightweight, compact options—typically inflatable pads that pack small. Kayak campers or those with limited space might prefer roll-up foam that’s more durable than inflatables.

Consider not just the packed size but also how easy the mattress is to transport—well-designed carrying cases with handles or straps make a big difference when hauling gear to your campsite.

6. Ease of Setup and Maintenance

After a long day hiking, the last thing you want is a complicated mattress setup. Self-inflating pads with built-in pumps save time and effort, while roll-out foam mats require no inflation at all. Consider how much time and energy you’re willing to spend on camp chores versus maximizing relaxation time.

Maintenance matters too—removable, washable covers extend your mattress’s life and keep it fresh between trips. Waterproof or water-resistant materials protect against morning dew and accidental spills.

7. Durability and Long-Term Value

Camping mattresses face rough treatment—sharp rocks, uneven ground, and repeated packing/unpacking. Look for reinforced seams, puncture-resistant materials, and quality valves that won’t leak over time. Check warranty information and user reviews specifically mentioning long-term durability.

Remember that the cheapest option isn’t always the best value—investing in a durable mattress that lasts multiple seasons often costs less per use than replacing budget options frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What thickness is best for side sleepers when camping?

For side sleepers, 4 inches or thicker is ideal to properly elevate your hips and prevent them from bottoming out against the ground. Thinner pads might work for back sleepers but often leave side sleepers with morning hip pain. However, the material matters too—high-quality 3-inch memory foam can sometimes provide better support than cheap 5-inch air pads because it maintains consistent pressure distribution.

2. Are memory foam or air mattresses better for side sleeping?

It depends on your priorities. Memory foam typically provides more consistent support and better pressure relief for side sleeping, but it’s heavier and less compact. Air mattresses are lighter and pack smaller but may require careful inflation to achieve the right firmness, and they can develop soft spots under hip pressure. Hybrid designs that combine air chambers with foam layers often offer the best balance for side sleepers who need both comfort and portability.

3. How important is R-value for camping mattresses?

Very important—especially for side sleepers. Since more of your body surface contacts the mattress when side sleeping, you lose body heat to the ground more quickly than back sleepers. For three-season camping, aim for R-value of 4-6; for winter conditions, look for R-10 or higher. Remember that foam mattresses naturally provide better insulation than air-only pads, but many modern air pads include thermal layers specifically for cold weather camping.

4. Can I use a camping mattress for guests at home?

Absolutely—many camping mattresses work wonderfully as guest beds. Memory foam options often feel nearly identical to regular bed mattresses, while high-quality air mattresses with built-in pumps provide quick setup for surprise visitors. Just check the dimensions—some camping pads are narrower than standard bed sizes—and consider thickness if your guests include side sleepers who need proper support.

5. How do I prevent my camping mattress from deflating overnight?

Several strategies help: First, inflate your mattress fully and let it sit for 15-30 minutes before adding weight—this allows the material to stretch and stabilizes the air pressure. Choose mattresses with quality valves and check that they’re completely closed. Use a ground cloth under your tent to protect against sharp objects. For air mattresses, consider slightly over-inflating initially since they often soften a bit as the air temperature drops overnight.

Final Verdict

After extensive testing and analysis, the clear winner for side sleepers is the LOSTHORIZON Air & Foam Camping Mattress with its exceptional hybrid comfort that genuinely eliminates pressure points. But the beauty of today’s market is that there are excellent options for every budget and camping style—from the feature-packed MEETPEAK inflatable pad for value seekers to the budget-friendly SEVNPRIME sleeping pad that proves you don’t need to spend a fortune for decent side sleeper comfort.

The key takeaway? Don’t settle for any old camping pad—your side sleeping body deserves proper support that lets you wake up refreshed and ready to enjoy the outdoors rather than nursing sore hips and shoulders. Whether you prioritize luxury comfort, lightweight packability, or simple affordability, there’s a mattress on this list that will transform your camping sleep experience.

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