REI Co-op Campwell Sleeping Pad vs ALPS Mountaineering Apex Self-Inflating Air Pad

Editorial Team
Last modified at April 28, 2026
Choosing the right sleeping pad can make a significant difference in your camping experience. A good sleeping pad provides comfort, insulation, and support, ensuring you wake up refreshed and ready for another day of adventure. In this comparison, we look at two popular options: the REI Co-op Campwell Sleeping Pad and the ALPS Mountaineering Apex Self-Inflating Air Pad. Both offer unique features and benefits, but which one is the best fit for you?

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REI Co-op Campwell Sleeping PadALPS Mountaineering Apex Self-Inflating Air Pad
REI Co-op Campwell Sleeping PadALPS Mountaineering Apex Self-Inflating Air Pad
Weight

Regular: 56 oz XL: 72 oz

Regular: 78 oz Long: 109 oz X-Large: 123 oz

R value

7

9.8

Thickness

2.5 in

3 in

Length

Regular: 72 in XL: 78 in

Regular: 72 in Long: 77 in X-Large: 77 in

Width

Regular: 25 in XL: 30 in

Regular: 20 in Long: 25 in X-Large: 30 in

Warranty

Limited warranty (defects only, no fixed duration)

Limited lifetime warranty (defects in materials and workmanship)

Material

Top: 100% recycled soft-stretch polyester Bottom: 100% recycled polyester Insulation: open-cell foam

Brushed suede-like top fabric Polyester bottom fabric Insulation: open-cell foam

Inflation time

Self-inflating

N/A

Packed size

Regular: 6.25 x 26 in XL: 9 x 30 in

Regular: 21 x 7 in Long: 26 x 7 in X-Large: 31 x 7 in

Comfort

REI Co-op Campwell Sleeping Pad

4.9/ 5.0

ALPS Mountaineering Apex Self-Inflating Air Pad

4.8/ 5.0

Comfort is crucial for a good night's sleep, especially after a long day of outdoor activities. A comfortable sleeping pad can make the difference between waking up refreshed or feeling tired and sore. Both the REI Co-op Campwell Sleeping Pad and the ALPS Mountaineering Apex Self-Inflating Air Pad excel in this category, with users praising their plush feel and ability to provide a restful night's sleep. The REI Co-op Campwell Sleeping Pad is noted for its desired level of comfort, while the ALPS Mountaineering Apex is described as soft and thick. Given the minimal difference in ratings, both products tie in this category.

Durability

REI Co-op Campwell Sleeping Pad

3.8/ 5.0

ALPS Mountaineering Apex Self-Inflating Air Pad

4.1/ 5.0

Durability ensures that your sleeping pad can withstand the rigors of camping and last for many trips. A more durable pad means better value for money and fewer worries about wear and tear. The ALPS Mountaineering Apex Self-Inflating Air Pad edges out the REI Co-op Campwell Sleeping Pad in this category. Users report that the ALPS pad is made of high-quality materials and withstands regular use well. While the REI pad is generally durable, there are some concerns about its long-term durability compared to the ALPS pad.

Ease of use

REI Co-op Campwell Sleeping Pad

4.6/ 5.0

ALPS Mountaineering Apex Self-Inflating Air Pad

3.6/ 5.0

Ease of use is important for setting up and packing away your sleeping pad quickly and efficiently. A pad that is easy to use saves time and effort, allowing you to focus on enjoying your camping experience. The REI Co-op Campwell Sleeping Pad is the clear winner in this category. Users consistently praise its self-inflating feature and overall ease of use. While the ALPS pad also has a self-inflating feature, some users find it requires additional manual inflation to achieve the desired firmness.

Warmth

REI Co-op Campwell Sleeping Pad

4.6/ 5.0

ALPS Mountaineering Apex Self-Inflating Air Pad

3.8/ 5.0

Warmth is essential for staying comfortable in various weather conditions, especially during colder nights. A warmer sleeping pad can make a significant difference in your overall camping experience. The REI Co-op Campwell Sleeping Pad excels in this category, with users praising its insulation and warmth. It is noted for being perfect for camping in all conditions. While the ALPS pad offers good insulation, it doesn't quite match the warmth provided by the REI pad.

Noise

REI Co-op Campwell Sleeping Pad

3.6/ 5.0

ALPS Mountaineering Apex Self-Inflating Air Pad

2.6/ 5.0

Noise can be a significant factor, especially for light sleepers. A quieter sleeping pad ensures that you and your camping partners can sleep undisturbed. The REI Co-op Campwell Sleeping Pad is the better option in this category. While it can be a bit noisy, it is generally quieter compared to the ALPS pad, which has been noted to produce noise when air is coming in or going out.

Stability

REI Co-op Campwell Sleeping Pad

3.8/ 5.0

ALPS Mountaineering Apex Self-Inflating Air Pad

3.2/ 5.0

Stability ensures that your sleeping pad stays in place and provides consistent support throughout the night. A stable pad prevents you from sliding off and ensures a comfortable sleep. The REI Co-op Campwell Sleeping Pad is the winner in this category. Users report that it provides a stable sleeping surface, while the ALPS pad can be too narrow, affecting stability for those who move around a lot during sleep.

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Conclusion & Final Verdict:

After comparing the REI Co-op Campwell Sleeping Pad and the ALPS Mountaineering Apex Self-Inflating Air Pad, it's clear that both have their strengths. The REI pad excels in ease of use, warmth, noise, and stability, making it a great all-around choice. On the other hand, the ALPS pad offers better durability and a more compact packed size. Depending on your specific needs, either pad could be the right choice for your camping adventures.

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