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When it comes to car camping, your mattress might just be the most important piece of gear you pack. But here’s the big question: should you go with foam or inflatable?
Both have their perks. Both have their trade-offs. And the right choice really depends on your adventure style, vehicle, and comfort priorities. Let’s break it down so you can make the best call for your setup.
👉 Looking for the full breakdown of car camping mattresses? Check out our Complete Guide to Car Camping Mattresses.
Best for:Vanlifers, truck bed setups, and campers who prioritize all-night comfort over packability.
Not sure where to start? Check out our Best Car Camping Mattresses: Buyer’s Guide for a roundup of top picks.
Best for:Weekend warriors, road trippers with limited storage, or campers balancing car + tent setups.
Some systems combine foam + inflatable layers, giving you cushion, warmth, and adjustability in one. These strike a balance, but often come with a higher price tag.
We’ve tested both in real-world adventures—from alpine lakes to desert roads. Foam consistently delivers the closest thing to your bed at home, while inflatables win on space-saving.
That’s why HEST focuses on premium foam-based designs—like the HEST Foamy for SUVs, or the HEST Sleep System for vanlife. Built with temperature-resilient memory foam and waterproof bases, they’re designed to bring comfort + durability together in one system.
No matter your setup, the right mattress is the difference between “getting through the night” and actually resting, recovering, and waking ready for adventure.
If you’re running a full van build, foam mattresses tend to shine—especially with options like our Best Mattress for a Sprinter Van guide.
👉 Want the full scoop on styles, features, and picks for every vehicle? Head back to our Complete Guide to Car Camping Mattresses.
Explore more: Best Car Camping Mattresses: Buyer’s Guide.
