Exped Megamat First Impressions Review
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Exped has been regarded as one of the top makers of sleeping mats and pads for years and the Megamat is probably their signature product. The Megamat is a 4-inch self-inflating pad aimed at the car camping and overlanding crowd and is renowned for its great comfort. Before we get too far, I have to point out that I received this review sample (in Fall of 2024) right about the same time that Exped announced it was updating the Megamat with a refreshed version, which would be available in the Spring of 2025. I am noting this for disambiguation purposes. Also, I had planned on testing the Exped Megamat as a teardrop camper mattress but we had put ours away for the winter, so this review is more of a first impressions write-up based on indoor use.
Exped Megamat Size
The Megamat is available in multiple sizes that include both single and double versions, which means a couple could sleep comfortably without a crease in between them. The LXW size I tested measures 77.5 x 30.5 x 4”. For transport, Exped provides a roll-top stuff sack that is easy to put the rolled-up mat in without the struggle that comes with many stuff sacks. Given the thickness and overall size of the Megamat, it compresses to a perfectly reasonable size if you’re car camping and need to put it in your trunk.
Testing the Exped Megamat
Having slept on the Exped Megamat LXW in a number of locations, I can confidently say that it’s the most comfortable sleeping pads I’ve ever used. In fact, I found it more enjoyable than many real mattresses. Unlike the typical rounded top pads, the Megamat uses vertical sidewalls to create a flat and supportive surface all the way to the edges. A tricot polyester fabric with stretch allows the cover of the pad to mold much better to your body, especially important for side sleepers like myself.
A memorable experience with the Megamat was when my young daughter fell ill, and we needed to stay close to her overnight. We placed the mat on the floor of her room, and I was amazed at how I really didn’t miss my own bed. The comfort level was outstanding, and it made an otherwise stressful situation much more bearable.
One of the standout features of the Megamat is the included mini-pump, which makes inflating the pad a quick and easy process. It’s incredibly convenient to have the pump as part of the package, ensuring that setting up your sleeping space doesn’t require a bunch of blowing with your lungs. The mini-pump easily fits in the stuff sack with the pad.
Final Thoughts on the Exped Megamat
Because of the overall feel, I think the Megamat is a great choice not only for camping trips but also for traveling to a friend’s house or staying in a hotel if you’re driving. Its versatility extends beyond just outdoor adventures. While this review is based on my first impressions, I am eagerly anticipating the updates Exped plans to introduce in the 2025 version of the Megamat. If they manage to improve on what is already an exceptional product, I can only imagine how impressive the new version will be. This experience has certainly set a high bar for what I expect from sleeping pads in the future. For more info or to check one out for yourself, visit expedusa.com, rei.com or amazon.com.
