Lightweight Hike Bedding - kit test

When I get the chance I like to test out new kit in real camping conditions before a trip begins. In this case, I was trying to perfect my lightweight bedding ready for a weekend camp carrying all my kit to the site using a combination of ferry and then hiking.

My personal checklist for hiking with kit includes:

  • Ultra lightweight - every ounce/gram counts
  • Warmth - I get cold easily and quickly in all seasons
  • Back care - if I want to be pain free then I need some cushion support between me and the ground. 
Here's what I planned:

I didn't last the night before sliding back over to my airbed on the other side of the tent! The Robens Vapour provides good support. I find it really comfy and at 425g it's nice and light. However, there is just no insulation there and despite it being the summer I could feel the cold coming up from the ground.

In the end I had to make room in my pack for the addition of the Mountain Equipment Helium Women's 3.8 which provides good insulation, but I find too hard to sleep on without any extra padding. An extra 670g to my pack weight. with the Mountain Warehouse Microlite 500 sleeping bag weighing 1kg that meant a total bedding weight of 2.095kg (4.62 lbs.) 

Still on the lookout for a lightweight, insulated comfy sleeping mat that won't break the bank, suggestions welcome.

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