Fastest Way to Pack Self-Inflating Camping Mats

Updated at: 11/05/2025

Self-inflating sleeping mats are a camper's best friend, providing crucial comfort and insulation on cold, hard ground. But that blissful slumber comes at a price: the often-frustrating process of packing them away. Wrestling with a stubbornly resisting, air-filled mattress can quickly turn a relaxing camping trip into a sweaty, frustrating ordeal. Many campers struggle to efficiently pack their mats, resulting in bulky, awkwardly shaped packages that take up valuable space in already-packed backpacks. This leads to unnecessary weight and frustration on the trail.

Fortunately, mastering the art of packing a self-inflating mat is achievable with a little know-how. This guide will teach you the most efficient methods to compress your sleeping mat, minimizing its size and maximizing your pack space. Read on to discover our step-by-step process for achieving that perfectly packed, space-saving mat, ensuring your next adventure is comfortable and stress-free.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Self-inflating camping mat
  • Stuff sack
Safety Guidelines
  • Avoid forcing air out. Aggressive stuffing can damage the valves or internal structure of your mat, shortening its lifespan.
  • Roll from the foot end. This ensures even compression and prevents air pockets from forming, making packing more efficient.
  • Use provided stuff sack. The designated stuff sack is sized to optimize compression and protect your mat during transport.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preparation

    • Ensure your storage bag is within reach before starting.

  2. Initial Folding

    • For double mats, fold in half. Single mats can skip this step.
    • Unroll, then fold the mat in half again.
    Unroll, then fold the mat in half again.Unroll, then fold the mat in half again.
    Initial Folding

  3. First Roll & Air Expulsion

    • Loosely roll the mat to expel most of the air. Use your hands and knees to squeeze out as much air as possible.
    Loosely roll the mat to expel most of the air. Use your hands and knees to squeeze out as much air as possible.
    First Roll & Air Expulsion

  4. Tight Roll & Air Release

    • Roll the mat tightly, applying pressure to expel remaining air. For Exped mats, use the inflate valve tab to keep it open while rolling for faster air release.
    • Roll the mat a second time to further compress it if needed
    Roll the mat a second time to further compress it if needed
    Tight Roll & Air Release

  5. Securing & Storage

    • Tuck the end of the mat neatly to prevent fabric from sticking out.
    • Seal the valve. Use the strap provided to secure the rolled mat.
    • Place the rolled mat into its stuff sack.
    Place the rolled mat into its stuff sack.
    Securing & Storage

Read more: How to Clean Your Therm-a-Rest NeoAir X-Lite Sleeping Pad: The Easiest Method

Tips

  • Having a second person helps, especially with larger mats.
  • Sidewinder bags (like those used with Exped Mega Mats) make packing easier, allowing for less precise rolling.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Rolling too tightly from the end

Reason: This creates uneven compression, leading to bulging and making it harder to secure the straps.
Solution: Start rolling from the center, working your way outwards to ensure even compression.

2. Not expelling enough air before packing

Reason: Residual air expands during travel, increasing the bulk and making the mat harder to pack tightly.
Solution: Repeatedly squeeze and press the mat to release as much air as possible before rolling.

3. Ignoring the manufacturer's instructions

Reason: Each mat has unique features and packing suggestions; ignoring them may result in damage or inefficient packing.
Solution: Carefully read and follow the manufacturer’s specific instructions for packing your self-inflating mat.

FAQs

My self-inflating mat still feels quite bulky even after following your steps. What am I doing wrong?
Several factors can contribute to a bulky packed mat. Ensure you've completely deflated it, including opening the valve completely and pressing out any remaining air pockets. Rolling tightly from the opposite end of the valve is crucial. Finally, using a compression sack designed for sleeping mats can significantly reduce the overall size.