Stop Sleeping Cold: Why R-Value is EVERYTHING

Ever woken up shivering at 3 am, even though you’re bundled in a thick sleeping bag rated for freezing conditions? It might be time to have a good, hard look at your camping mat, and it all comes down to one often-overlooked number: the R-value.

What is R-Value?

The R-value measures thermal resistance, or simply, how well your camping mat stops the cold ground from stealing your body heat. The higher the R-value, the better your mat insulates, keeping you warmer through the night.

Why It Matters More Than You Might Think

Even the best sleeping bag will struggle to keep you warm if you are lying on a mat with poor or no insulation. Heat loss to the ground is one of the biggest reasons campers wake up cold and restless. A camp mat with the right R-value acts like a thermal barrier, keeping your body heat where it belongs.

Quick R-Value Guide for Campers

• R 1 to 2: Good for warm summer nights.
• R 2 to 3.5: Suitable for spring and autumn camping.
• R 4 to 5.5: Ideal for colder Australian regions or year-round use.
• R 6 and above: Built for snow camping and alpine adventures.

Tip: If you’re someone who easily feels the cold, you will not regret investing in a camp mat with a higher R-value to be safe.

How to Pick the Right R-Value Camping Mat

For Year-Round Adventures

Choose a versatile mat like the Domex Compact with an R4 rating. It is lightweight, easy to pack and handles a range of Aussie conditions.

For Alpine Trips and Winter Missions

Step up to a higher R-value, such as the R8-rated Domex Ultra. This is perfect for people chasing snow or heading into cold, exposed terrain.

Bonus Tip: Layer Up

In extreme cold, you'll want to layer your insulation for the greatest protection and uninterrupted sleep. Use a footprint under your tent (it makes a difference!), under your inflatable mat, you can place a simple folding foam mat (which can also prevent punctures), and within your sleeping bag, consider a thermal liner to boost the temperature. By doing this, you are ensuring the greatest chance for a luxurious sleep in almost any conditions.