And although we’ve read anecdotal complaints about leaky valves, we assume it’s due to user error rather than an actual manufacturing defect. Once correctly seated, we had no problems with leakage, however.
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(An idiot-proof diagram next to the valve shows you how to operate it.) We found this valve system to be unnecessarily finicky, making it difficult to know when the valve is fully seated on the inflation side or sealed side. To deflate, rotate the valve halfway, keeping it just slightly ajar for fine-tuning.
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We would recommend buying Exped’s USB-rechargeable Widget Pump ($49) or any other powered or manual pump with a compatible connector.Ĭamp Dreamer : The Camp Dreamer comes with a creatively-designed rotating valve, where one side allows for inflation and the other prevents air loss. Despite the fact that this pad is “self-inflating,” we’ve never successfully fully inflated the pad with the Mini Pump, although we estimate it would take 5-10 minutes of continuous pumping. For inflation, Exped includes a comically small “Mini Pump” that you can either press or step on. The two-way inflation valve also allows you to slowly release air by simply pressing on it, which makes fine-tuning the firmness of your mattress incredibly easy and precise. MegaMat Max: Like many Exped pads, the MegaMat Max has both an inflation and deflation valve. (Photo: courtesy) Ease of Setup/Breakdown
The Exped MegaMat Max 15 has a two-way valve that allows for precise deflation. With that out of the way, let’s get to the good stuff. They pack down to nearly the same size, with the MegaMat just 3 inches thicker when rolled up. The MegaMat is nearly double the weight of the Camp Dreamer at just over 13 pounds, though both are heavy enough that you won’t want to carry them backpacking. (For the record, the Exped has a significantly higher R-Value at 10.6). Both pads have a very high R-Value, or the measure of a sleeping pad’s insulation, adequate to keep you comfortable even on the snow. To set the stage, there are a few things that did not factor into our comparison. To that end, we pitted one of the most affordable pads in this category, the REI Co-op Camp Dreamer XL Self-Inflating Deluxe Bed against one of the most expensive, the Exped MegaMat Max 15. But deluxe car camping pads can be very pricey. Luckily, several brands on the market offer ultra-cush car camping pads that bring you about as close as possible to getting the same kind of sleep as you do at home.
That means investing in a more deluxe sleep system. Many of us hit a point in our lives where we don’t want to rough it on a closed-cell foam sleeping mat or lightweight air pad at basecamp. You’ll likely want to flesh out your kit with the requisite hiking pants, shirts and packable jackets before heading into the woods on your first journey ( Steep & Cheap, REI Outlet and Patagonia Worn Wear are all excellent sources for wallet-conscious outdoor lovers), but here is a top-down look at the best affordable backpacking gear on the market today, hand-picked by experts.Heading out the door? Read this article on the new Outside+ app available now on iOS devices for members! In an effort to break down barriers and increase access to the outdoors, we asked loads of our favorite wilderness aficionados for their favorite budget-friendly pieces of backpacking gear and things they wished they had known to bring along when they were just starting out. Unfortunately, the soulful sport of backpacking can feel woefully inaccessible to most, due to the high price tag of necessary items (like a shelter, sleeping bag and large backpack), and that’s a real shame. Something about this age-old tradition of carrying your shelter, food, and anything else you might need for the night provides a potent antidote for the modern world, with only the barest essentials in hand.
There’s nothing quite like pitching a tent at a secluded alpine lake with the wind in your hair, the scent of pine in your nostrils, and a view of the Milky Way twinkling into view. Your CNN account Log in to your CNN account
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