This review dives deep into the Exped MegaMat Duo, a premium camping mattress promising ultimate comfort. We explore its ease of use, from the surprisingly compact packaging and efficient inflation pump to the innovative valve system that simplifies both inflation and deflation. Expect detailed insights into its unique hybrid foam and air technology, highlighting the comfort and support it provides, even without full inflation.Discover if the MegaMat Duo lives up to its hype. We'll examine its edge support, crucial for preventing rollovers, and assess its suitability for various body types and sleeping positions. Finally, we'll weigh the premium price against the exceptional comfort, ease of packing, and overall durability, offering a comprehensive verdict for discerning campers seeking a superior sleep experience in the outdoors.
Pros And Cons
- Most comfortable camping mattress owned by the reviewer.
- Easily packable and repackable.
- Lightweight and easy to use.
- Foam and air hybrid technology for increased comfort and back support.
- Large mouth opening on the stuff sack makes packing easier.
- Inflates quickly, even partially self-inflating.
- Comfortable even when not fully inflated.
- Technology around the edges makes it stand up straighter than other camping mattresses, preventing rolling off.
- Firm and sturdy, with even support across the entire surface area.
- Too stiff if fully inflated.
- Only suitable for one person.
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Unboxing and Initial Impressions
The Exped MegaMat Duo arrived in a surprisingly compact bag, considering the mattress's size. The large opening made unpacking easy, a welcome change from wrestling with tiny stuff sacks. The included pump initially seemed too small for the job, but I was pleasantly surprised by its efficiency. It quickly inflated the mattress, showcasing Exped's innovative design.
Inflation and Comfort
The MegaMat Duo uses a unique hybrid foam and air technology. Even without fully inflating it, the mattress provided exceptional comfort. The self-inflating feature is impressive; within minutes, it started expanding. Over-inflation makes it too firm; a slightly less-than-full inflation is ideal for optimal comfort and that luxurious foam feel.
The mattress’s innovative valve system makes inflation and deflation a breeze. A simple push and release mechanism controls the air flow. The ingenious design ensures no air escapes during deflation.
Edge Support and Stability
One standout feature is the exceptional edge support. Unlike many camping mats, the MegaMat Duo maintains its firmness and stability even at the edges. This prevents sinking or rolling off, enhancing comfort and ensuring a stable sleep surface. The innovative foam core technology maintains even support across the entire mattress.
I'm 6' tall and 190 lbs, and the medium size was perfect for me. There was ample space, and it provided excellent comfort even while sleeping on my side.
Deflation and Packing
Deflating and repacking the MegaMat Duo is surprisingly easy. Simply open the valve, fold the mattress in half, and roll it tightly toward the valve. The large stuff sack makes packing a breeze. I could pack it tightly and easily without any struggle.
Final Verdict
The Exped MegaMat Duo is a premium camping mattress. While the price point is higher than some alternatives, the exceptional comfort, ease of use, and durability justify the cost. The hybrid technology, excellent edge support, and easy packing make it a top choice for serious campers. I would highly recommend it to anyone seeking superior comfort and support during their outdoor adventures.
The self-inflating feature and easy pumping system are significant advantages. While other mattresses may offer similar features, the MegaMat Duo’s combination of comfort, support, and packability stands out. It’s a worthwhile investment for anyone who values a good night’s sleep in the wild.