Cheap Air Pad

One thing to think about is that a low R value means cooler on hot summer nights.

An R value of 1.0 may not work well alone in the corner seasons when sleeping on cold hard ground.

I've slept on a couple of air and self-inflating pads, and the REI Stratus is by far the most comfortable pad I've slept on. It's neither exceptionally light or heavy at 20oz but rolls up pretty small. I love how the outer tubes are larger — they keep you centered on the pad quite nicely.

It seems pretty durable as well. I've only had it for 2 months or so but haven't had any problems.

Thanks for both of your inputs. Love your review on the stratus and being comfortable is the most important thing when sleeping. Being durable is great being that I backpack with my dog and cant help but worry about her nails killing the pad.

Ive thought about the low r value, with the BA pad, being nice in ths summer. I also have a thermarest z lite that I plan on cutting down and using in combo with whatever pad I decide on for colder nights.

I wish I could get some input from someone who has used the BA pad before. It is exciting that it is a brand new product but I cant help but be nervous about it for the very same reason.

REI just came out with a new pad that's pretty much a mummy version of the Stratus. It weighs 16oz and costs $100.

http://www.rei.com/product/845300/rei-flash-insulated-air-sleeping-pad

Also, check out the Big Agnes Clearview. I was looking at them a while ago and they're supposed to be pretty good. The short mummy version is 11oz and $45. The regular mummy is 14oz. They're 2.5in thick and have R values of 1.

http://www.campsaver.com/clearview-air-pad?gclid=CP7Pp8vHgbUCFQqk4AodKFUAOQ

BPL reader reviews: http://www.backpackinglight.com/cgi-bin/backpackinglight/reviews/display_reviews?forum_thread_id=15474&cat=Sleeping%20Pads%20-%20Inflatable&cid=40