Mats incredible! What to look for in an inflatable camping mat

Why ASTM 3340-22 Matters When Choosing an Inflatable Sleeping Mat for Camping

When you're camping, a solid night's sleep is essential. A quality inflatable sleeping mat can turn hard, uneven ground into a warm, supportive rest stop. Whether you're trekking into the backcountry or pitching camp near your 4WD, investing in a lightweight, insulated mat makes all the difference. But with so many specs and styles available, it’s easy to get lost in the details.

One important standard to know when comparing sleeping mats is ASTM 3340-22. But what does it mean, how does it apply to inflatable camping mats, and why should you care?

What is ASTM 3340-22?

ASTM 3340-22 is a standard created by ASTM International (formerly the American Society for Testing and Materials) that outlines how to test the thermal resistance of sleeping mats. Essentially, it measures how well a mat insulates you from the cold ground.

"3340" refers to the specific test method, and "22" marks the year of the most recent update, 2022, so it reflects the current expectations for performance.

Why Is Thermal Resistance Important?

Even in many parts of Australia, ground temperatures can plummet at night, especially in alpine areas or inland regions. A mat’s ability to stop heat loss from your body to the ground is crucial. Cold seeping up from below can quickly turn your night into a miserable experience or worse, pose a real safety risk in cold weather.

ASTM 3340-22 ensures sleeping mats are tested for their R-value, which tells you how much insulation the mat provides. The higher the R-value, the better it holds warmth.

If you're camping in places like the Snowy Mountains or Tasmania, having a high R-value mat means you’ll stay warm and sleep well, even on frosty ground.

Key Features of Sleeping Mats Tested Under ASTM 3340-22

Thermal Insulation
Mats tested to this standard are assessed for their ability to trap air and prevent heat loss. This is ideal for shoulder season trips or alpine hikes where you need a compact yet warm solution.

Durability and Performance
This standard also checks how a mat handles wear and tear. Whether you're setting up on rocky trails or rugged terrain, a tested mat should resist punctures, abrasions and long-term compression.

Comfort
While not the main focus, the standard ensures a basic level of comfort. A good inflatable mat cushions your body and eases pressure points, even when the ground underneath isn’t forgiving.

Moisture Resistance
ASTM 3340-22 includes testing for how a mat performs in damp conditions. This is useful for Australian conditions, where morning dew and changeable weather are common.

How Does ASTM 3340-22 Help You Choose the Right Sleeping Mat?

Seeing ASTM 3340-22 on a product means it has undergone independent testing and met clear performance benchmarks. That said, the standard focuses on insulation and durability, not things like how soft the surface feels or how light it is to carry.

Other things to look for include:

• R-value: For cooler Aussie climates, aim for an R-value of 4 or above, like you'll find on the Domex Compact. For alpine and winter camping, go for R6 or higher. The Domex Ultra has an impressive R8 rating.
• Weight and packability: If you're hiking or bikepacking, choose a mat that balances thermal performance with compact, lightweight design.
• Material: Pick something tough and waterproof that resists punctures, moisture and wear.

Conclusion

ASTM 3340-22 is a trusted benchmark that ensures inflatable sleeping mats meet essential standards for insulation and toughness. All Domex inflatable sleeping mats meet this standard, giving you peace of mind when you're planning your next outdoor escape. Whether you’re exploring the High Country in winter or heading out on a summer overnight hike, this standard helps ensure your sleep setup is ready for the challenge.