What to Put Under Air Mattress When Camping? [Detailed Guide]

When you're camping, you want to be comfortable. And one of the essential parts of being comfortable is having a good night's sleep. But if you don't have something to put under your air mattress, you might not get the best night's sleep.

Why Put Something Under Your Air Mattress?

When camping, there are a few reasons you might want to put something under your air mattress. By understanding why, you can make sure that you choose a suitable material to put under your air mattress. Some reasons you might want to put something under your air mattress include the following.

Keep Your Air Mattress Clean and Protected

One of the main reasons why you might want to put something under your air mattress is to keep it clean and protected. For example, if you're camping in an area where there might be dirt or debris on the ground, you don't want that to get on your air mattress.

Additionally, if you're using an air mattress that isn't very thick, you might want to put something under it to protect it from rocks or other sharp objects that could puncture it.

Inflate Your Air Mattress More Easily

If you're using an air mattress that doesn't have an automatic inflation feature, you might want to put something under it to help you inflate it more easily. By placing something under the air mattress, you can create a barrier between the ground and the air mattress. This will help keep the air in the mattress and make it easier for you to inflate it.

Keep Your Air Mattress Warmer

Another reason you might want to put something under your air mattress is to keep it warmer. The ground can make your air mattress cold if you're camping in a cold climate, including the desert. But if you put something under your air mattress, it will insulate it and keep it warmer.

What to Put Under Air Mattress When Camping

Now that you know some of the reasons why you might want to put something under your air mattress when camping, you need to choose a suitable material. There are a few different options that you can choose from, and the best choice for you will depend on your needs.

Below we’ll look at more options for what you can put under your air mattress while camping. 

Foam Pads

One of the most common options that you have for what to put under your air mattress when camping is a foam pad. Foam pads are relatively cheap and can be found at most camping stores.

Foam pads come in various thicknesses, so you can choose one that's right for you. For example, if you're concerned about punctures, you might want to choose a thicker foam pad. But a thinner foam pad will suffice if you're looking for something to keep your air mattress clean. Remember, the thicker the foam, the heavier it will be.

Blankets

Another option you have when considering what to put under your air mattress when camping is a blanket. A blanket will insulate your air mattress and keep it warm. It will also protect your air mattress from dirt and debris.

If you choose to use a blanket, make sure it's thick. A thin blanket won't provide much insulation, and it might not be enough to protect your air mattress from punctures.

Air Mattress Pads

An air mattress pad is a great option to put under your air mattress while camping. Air mattress pads protect your air mattress and keep it clean. They're also usually thicker than foam pads to provide more insulation.

Air mattress pads are more expensive than foam pads but are still relatively affordable. And they're worth the investment if you want to keep your air mattress in good condition.

Tarps

A tarp is an excellent option to put under your air mattress if you're concerned about punctures. A tarp will provide a barrier between the ground and your air mattress, and it will also protect your air mattress from dirt and debris no matter where you're camping.

Tarps are more expensive than foam pads but are still relatively affordable. And they're worth the investment if you want to keep your air mattress in good condition. In addition, campers can use tarps for other purposes, such as creating a makeshift shelter.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are a few different options for what to put under your air mattress when camping. Of course, the best choice for you will depend on your needs. But regardless of which option you choose, you'll be glad that you put something under your air mattress when camping. It will make your camping experience more comfortable and enjoyable.