How Do I Keep My Sleeping Pad From Sliding Off?

A sleeping pad is an inflatable or foam mattress that is used for camping or backpacking. Sleeping pads provide insulation and cushioning from the ground, which can make sleeping outdoors more comfortable. Few things we have to consider while keeping your sleeping pad from sliding off.

Sleeping pads come in a variety of shapes and sizes and can be used in conjunction with a sleeping bag. Though they help greatly while sleeping in a camp, especially cold camping but they tend to slide off. Most campers have complained of sleeping pads sliding off exposing their back to excess cold. This can be very uncomfortable at night.

One of the most frustrating things about camping can be trying to keep your sleeping pad in place. No matter how hard you try, it always seems to end up sliding off in the middle of the night. But there are a few things you can do to keep your sleeping pad from sliding off.

So what can you do about it?

There are a few things you can do to keep your sleeping pad from sliding off in your camp.

1. Non-Slip Rug Tape

One of the best solutions is to use a non-slip rug pad under your sleeping pad. The single-side rug tape will hold the sleeping pad sticking to the ground of the camp. Before you fix rug tapes inflate the sleeping pad this will give you a clear idea about the ridges. Cut a few pieces of the rug tape approximately 12-14 inches long. Now pull the adhesive layer and attach them to the bottom side of the sleeping pad. 

Always use the rug pads on top of the pad in the area where your shoulder and hips stay. Because most of the body pressure is exerted at these points. So it is important to secure these points.

You can also use a few rug tapes on the camping base material like hammock or tent cloth to make sure the dug tapes lock each other.

2. Velcro Tape

Velcroe tap is another easily available but handy solution to stop your sleeping pad from sliding off. Use the velcro tapes on the sleeping pad and on the hammock fabric or camp fabric. Use a strong adhesive to stick the tape to both surfaces. Use 10-12 inches long tapes on the pad and use the same size tape on the camp nylon or polyester fabric. This will lock in the sleeping pad and the fabric together and chances of sliding off will be very minimal.

3. Sleeping Pad Strap

Use a strap to lock yourself with the sleeping pad so that it can not slide off. If you are using a sleeping bag then you will find locks to attach your sleeping pad straps. These straps will ensure you don’t move out of the spad all the time.

4. Buy a Sleeping Pad with Good Grip

While you are buying a sleeping pad make sure you choose a sleeping pad that has a good grip. There are many different types of sleeping pads on the market, and some are better than others at staying in place. You can also try attaching your sleeping pad to your sleeping bag (why both are necessary sleeping pad vs sleeping bag). This will help to keep it in place and prevent it from sliding around.