Best Camping Bed

Best Camping Bed

A good camping bed can result in a better night's sleep and an improved camping experience altogether. This award celebrates the best camping bed of the 2026 season

Best Camping Bed

Vango Shangri-La Lux 16 Grande

A good night’s sleep is arguably the most important factor in a successful camping trip and key to that is a comfortable bed. If you’ve ever accepted a restless night as part of the camping “experience”, the Vango Shangri-La Lux 16 Grande is here to change your mind – and possibly your entire outlook on sleeping outdoors.

This is camping luxury turned up to 11. At 16cm deep, it delivers a bed-like feel, with enough cushioning to smooth out even the most unforgiving ground.

What really sets it apart, though, is how effortlessly it delivers that comfort. The integrated rechargeable pump inflates (and deflates) the mattress in just a minute, taking the usual faff out of set-up and pack-down – a small detail that makes a big difference after a long day outdoors.

Vango’s Dreamlock construction is another standout feature, reducing pack size by 20% compared to previous models without compromising comfort.

Combined with vertical walls that maximise sleeping space and a soft, elastic fabric that feels far from “camping basic”, the result is a seriously impressive sleep system.

Durability hasn’t been overlooked either, with TPU lamination and robust materials ensuring it’s built for repeated adventures. It’s £240, so isn’t cheap, but this is a premium product that delivers on every front – comfort, convenience and reliability – making it a very worthy winner.

Highly Commended

Outwell Sleepnest

The Outwell Sleepnest range – with singles and doubles, ranging from 5cm to 14cm thick – brings engineering to the campsite, with cleverly designed horizontal support zones intended to follow your body’s natural curves.

The result is improved spinal alignment and a noticeably more comfortable night’s sleep, especially for side sleepers. A soft-touch upper fabric adds a cosy feel, while the durable base ensures long-lasting performance.

The flat-top 3D construction creates a smoother sleeping surface.

Prices range from £90 to £260

 Outwell Sleepnest
©Outwell
Lifesystems Sleep Mat Lite
©Lifesystems

Highly Commended

Lifesystems Sleep Mat Lite

Lightweight campers will love the Lifesystems Sleep Mat Lite. Compact, quick to inflate and impressively warm thanks to Heatshield technology, it punches well above its weight.

With strong waterproofing and durable materials, and a reasonable £69.99 price tag, it’s a reliable, budget-friendly choice for minimalist adventures.

 

OAL Camping Awards

View the rest of the awards

The Out & About Live Camping Gear Awards take all gear and accessories launched during the new season into consideration. Each decision is made using a thorough examination process by editors with decades of experience. Discover the best of the other awards here!

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