Recent Comments

How to Stop Rolling Off Your Sleeping Pad

Q: I keep rolling off my sleeping pad. What can I do to sleep better?
— Lucy, Augusta, Maine

A: This is a very common complaint. Luckily, there could be a simple fix. Many people tend to overinflate their sleeping pad. Blowing it up bigger will actually cause you to roll off.

Try this: Once it’s inflated, lie on it, and then open the valve briefly to let a little air out — that way, the pad conforms to your body.

If you’re looking for a good sleeping pad, check out our sleeping pad buying guide. These 13 tips for sleeping well on the trail might also help you get a better night sleep.


Ask the Gear Guy

Not sure which gear to buy? Need tips for maintaining your equipment? Click here to send in your questions for the Gear Guy. Selected questions will be answered here and in the printed magazine.

5 Comments on How to Stop Rolling Off Your Sleeping Pad

  1. a pocketknife/multitool

  2. A multi-purpose pocket knife.

  3. A small pad will fit inside the sleeping bag and keep warmer.

  4. Secondclass#2 // October 2, 2019 at 8:45 pm // Reply

    I usually put a fitted sheet on my air pad. It helps with the slip and I usually don’t have a problem

  5. I’ve been a Boy Scout for a while now and I was wondering what is the most helpful tool for Boy Scouts when you go on camping trips I really need to know.

Leave a Comment

Please don't use your real name.