A great camping trip depends on a good campsite setup. Tents, sleeping bags, and cooking gear get the limelight, but here at Affordable Camping, we know a key item is often forgotten: the outdoor mat.
A quality camping mat can make a campsite comfortable and clean, instead of dirty and unpleasant. This article shows you how to choose, use, and get the most from an outdoor camp mat. It will help make your next outdoor trip your best one.
The Unsung Hero of Your Campsite: Benefits of an Outdoor Mat
An outdoor mat is a useful tool that improves your camping trip. Here are some main benefits:
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Defines Your Living Space: An outdoor mat visually marks out your campsite's living area. This creates a specific space for relaxing, cooking, and socialising. This simple addition can make your campsite feel more organised and homey.
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Keeps Your Tent and Gear Clean: A big challenge in camping is keeping dirt out of your tent. An outdoor mat at the entrance of your tent is like a doormat. It provides a space to take off shoes and leave dirty gear. This helps keep the inside of your tent clean.
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Provides a Comfortable Surface: A camping mat offers a soft surface to walk, sit, or lie on. This is very welcome after a long day of hiking. It also gives a protective layer from rough or uneven ground.
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Adds a Layer of Insulation: On cool ground, a camp mat can give you an extra layer of insulation, helping you stay warmer.
Understanding the Types of Sleeping Mats
There are several kinds of camping mats and mattresses available. Each has its own good and bad points. Knowing the differences will help you choose the best one for you.
Self-Inflating Mattresses
A popular choice for many campers, self-inflating mats are a mix of open-cell foam and air. They offer a good balance of comfort, insulation, and ease of use, as they inflate by themselves to a point. They are usually more comfortable than foam mats, but can be heavier and cost more.
Air Mattresses
For campers who need comfort and a small pack size, air mats are a great choice. These mats are inflated with your breath or a pump and can be set to the firmness you like. They are light and pack down small, but they can get punctures.
How to Choose the Right Outdoor Camping Mat
Choosing the right outdoor camping mat depends on your setup and needs. With many options available, here are the key things to look at to find the perfect one for your campsite:
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Material and Durability: Most quality outdoor mats are made from woven polypropylene. This material is ideal because it's tough enough to handle dirt, sticks, and gravel without tearing. It's also breathable, which means it won't kill the grass underneath, a requirement for many caravan parks. Look for a tight weave that is easy to sweep and resistant to sand and dirt working its way through.
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Size and Coverage: Consider where you'll use the mat. Do you need a large one to cover the entire area under your caravan annexe or gazebo? Or a smaller mat for just outside your tent door? Measure your space to ensure you get the right coverage, creating a clean, defined zone for your chairs and gear.
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Ease of Cleaning: Your outdoor mat will get dirty. The best ones are non-absorbent and can be cleaned simply by hosing them down or sweeping them off. Look for materials that dry quickly and are mould-resistant, so you can pack them away without worry.
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Portability and Storage: While less of a concern for car campers, consider how easily the mat packs away. Most outdoor mats fold or roll up neatly and should come with a carry bag. This makes transport and storage much more convenient, keeping your car and shed clean.
FAQs
What is the main purpose of a camping mat?
A camping mat has a few uses. It gives you a comfortable and clean surface, marks out your outdoor living space, and adds a layer of insulation from the ground.
What is the difference between a camping mat and a sleeping pad?
The terms are sometimes mixed up. A camping mat is usually a larger, tougher mat for the ground outside. A sleeping pad is made for sleeping on inside a tent. But some mats can be used for both.
How do I clean my camp mat?
Most camp mats can be cleaned with warm water. For tough stains, you can use a soft brush. Always make sure your mat is fully dry before you store it to stop mould from growing. Check out our mat care guide.
Can I use an outdoor mat inside my tent?
Yes, lots of campers use a camping mat inside their tent like a carpet. This adds comfort and protects the tent floor.
How important is the weight of a camp mat?
The importance of weight depends on what kind of camping you do. For backpacking, a light and compact camp mat is very important. For car camping, weight is not so much of an issue.
Are more expensive camping mats worth it?
More expensive mats are often made with better materials, give better insulation, and are more comfortable and long-lasting. A cheap mat might be fine if you only camp now and then, but a better mat is a good purchase for people who camp a lot.
Your Campsite Upgrade Starts Here
A good outdoor mat is a simple way to improve your campsite. By giving you a clean, comfortable, and defined living area, a quality camping mat can make your outdoor trips much better. For weekend campers and serious backpackers alike, there's a perfect camp mat available. Before your next trip, think about getting this fundamental piece of gear; you’ll be glad you did.
Ready to find the perfect foundation for your next adventure? Contact us today to discuss the best mat options for you and get ready for your best trip yet.
