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Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite sleeping pad in various settings

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review: therm a rest neoair xlite sleeping pad (updated february 20 2025)

By Alex Honnold

Published: 20 Feb 2025

Let's be honest, sleeping pads aren't exactly the most glamorous piece of camping gear. But trust me, a good one is the difference between a blissful night's sleep under the stars and tossing and turning until sunrise, cursing your aching bones. I recently got my hands on the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite sleeping pad, and I've gotta say, it's changed my camping game. Before this, I was using a cheaper inflatable pad that felt like sleeping on a waterbed made of plastic wrap. Yep. That bad. So this review is coming from someone who knows firsthand the agony of a subpar sleeping pad. You'll learn why this pad changed my tune and if it's worth the hype (and the price tag).

person sleeping comfortably on a camping pad under the stars | Image: Supplied

First Impressions: Lightweight and Packable

Unpacking the NeoAir XLite was like unwrapping a surprisingly sleek, surprisingly lightweight package. I was immediately impressed by how compact it folded down. It really is small enough to stuff into even a small backpack. This is a huge plus for backpacking, where every ounce counts; I'm talking about significant weight reduction here, folks, and not just a little bit. Seriously, my backpack felt noticeably lighter! The material felt durable, which is reassuring given how many times it will hit the trail (and probably get scraped up along the way).

Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite sleeping pad packed in backpack | Image: Supplied

Inflation and Deflation: Surprisingly Easy

Okay, so I'm not gonna lie, I was a little nervous about the inflation process. I've had terrible experiences with other pads, ending up with a mouth full of air and a very uneven sleep surface. But this thing? A breeze. The included stuff sack doubles as a pump bag, making inflation far quicker than most inflatables. Deflation is just as straightforward and requires very little effort, a refreshing change from some other brands that leave you wrestling with valves and flapping fabric. It deflates in seconds. This whole process is something that can save a whole bunch of time and trouble. I know I appreciate it.

person inflating Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite sleeping pad | Image: Supplied

Comfort and Insulation: Sweet Dreams

This is where the NeoAir XLite truly shines. I tested this pad on several camping trips, from chilly mountain nights to warmer desert evenings, and I was consistently impressed by its comfort and insulation. It provides excellent insulation despite its low weight. I've experienced the horror of waking up to a cold, hard ground before, and let me tell you... it's no fun. This, however, kept me comfortably warm. I slept like a baby, even when temperatures dipped below freezing. Now, I'm not saying you can skip the sleeping bag entirely, but I can say this pad certainly added to the experience. Seriously, I think I slept better than I do at home. The pad itself was quite comfortable too; it didn't feel flimsy at all, even with my usual restless tossing and turning, and did not feel like I was sleeping on the ground. This sleeping pad felt almost luxurious compared to other options.

person sleeping soundly on Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite sleeping pad | Image: Supplied

Durability and Value: Worth the Investment?

The NeoAir XLite isn't cheap. Let's face it, it's an investment. But after several trips, I can confidently say it's worth every penny. The material feels rugged enough to withstand the bumps and scrapes of regular use; I even managed to accidentally set up camp on a rock (oops) with very little impact on the pad itself! It did not tear, puncture or leak and has stayed in excellent condition after months of frequent use. The convenience and comfort make it a worthy addition to your camping kit. This is one piece of gear you won't regret buying. You can tell it's made to last, not like that previous pad of mine which lasted just a few trips!

close-up of Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite sleeping pad showing its durability | Image: Supplied

Final Verdict: A Game Changer

If you're serious about comfortable camping, the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite sleeping pad is a game-changer. It's lightweight, packable, comfortable, and durable—everything you could ask for in a backpacking pad. While the price point is higher than some other options, the added comfort and quality more than justify the cost. I mean it. Would I recommend it? Absolutely! This pad is a worthwhile investment. This pad is now my favorite thing. I'd give it ten out of ten stars if I could.

Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite sleeping pad with happy camper | Image: Supplied

What about you?

What's your experience with backpacking sleeping pads? Let me know in the comments! What features do you value most? Maybe you have another recommendation for others to try? Let me know!