Nemo’s new 2024 Tensor-insulated sleeping pads (8/10, WIRED Recommends) have the best R-value-to-weight ratio of anything I’ve tested. The Tensor All-Season featured here sports an R-value of 5.4 and weighs 18.2 ounces. That alone is impressive, but what I love about the Tensor is that it’s thick, comfortable, and most importantly, nearly silent. The slightly lighter Trail model is also on sale, as is the Extreme Conditions pad, which is the lightest, warmest sleeping pad on the market.
This minimal pad isn’t the most comfortable I’ve used (that would be the Nemo above), but it gets the job done and is considerably cheaper. It has an R-value of 4.9, and the 30-denier ripstop polyester with TPU lamination has held up well through years of testing. I also like that this pad is relatively wide and roomy—even the “regular” model (I have not tested the wide, but that’s also an option).
This is the beefy, ultra-luxury pad that started the trend of huge car-camping pads. And for that we thank Exped. The MegaMat is one of our favorite sleeping pads, and has slightly better insulation than our top pick in that guide, making it a better choice if you sleep cold or are headed out in the shoulder seasons where colder temps are possible.
Backpack Deals
Don’t forget to check out our guides to the Best Laptop Backpacks and the Best Travel Bags.
The Flash 22 is possibly the best value day pack on the market, especially on sale. I was surprised by how comfortable this thing is, despite the lightweight straps and minimal padding. It carries loads up to 15 pounds without straining the shoulders, and the side stash pockets are fabulously large—big enough for a Nalgene bottle or rain jacket.
The ultralight cousin to the Flash 22, the Flash 18 lacks the hip belt, side stash pockets, and floating lid. What you’re left with is a stripped-down, bare-bones pack that’s great for traveling since you can stuff it down to almost nothing, stash it in your carry-on, and have a nice backpack whenever you need it. Don’t load it up with more than 8 pounds of gear though, and avoid anything with pointy bits as there’s no padding here.
I spent several days in Michigan’s Porcupine Mountains with this pack, and I loved everything about it except the fit. The organization, the pockets, the lid—everything was fantastic, but it rode up on my hips. That doesn’t stop me from recommending it. Everyone is shaped differently. What didn’t work for me might be perfect for you. As with any pack, we suggest you head into an REI store and try them on if possible.
Apparel Deals
Every year, I repurchase one of these rain jackets for each of my children. It’s hard to find rain jackets that are better value than REI’s. The kid’s version is a 2.5-layer shell with a non-fluorinated (read: PFAS-free) durable water-repellent (DWR) coating, taped seams, and an adjustable hood. These will last all year (at least, as long as your kid doesn’t lose theirs).
I cannot tell a lie; I have been wearing Halle pants for almost 15 years, and as the nylon content has gone up, they have started pilling very quickly. Nevertheless, the fit is still dialed for women with straighter hips and, er, athletic thighs. ReZion fabric is UPF 50, will not wrinkle, and is light and breathable. This is a good, versatile summer travel pant that looks nice, can accommodate all sorts of activities, and won’t stifle you.
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