Question about my sleeping pad popping on a rocky site

Honestly, I set up camp on what looked like a clear spot, but there were hidden sharp rocks. Tbh, my inflatable pad got a puncture the first night. Ngl, it was so uncomfortable sleeping on the ground. I had to fold up my jacket to use as a cushion. What do you all use to protect your pads?

4 comments

4 Comments

daniel3911mo ago

My buddy always brings a cheap Tyvek groundsheet.

patricia_bennett521mo ago

On the John Muir Trail, my Tyvek groundsheet punctured easily. Now I use basic window insulation film and it holds up way better.

lily_henderson1mo ago

Check out what @daniel391 said about Tyvek. Does that stuff REALLY work on sharp rocks? I've seen people use foam pads underneath, but they bulk up your pack. Last trip, I tried a basic tarp and it still got torn up. What's the BEST way to keep the pad safe without adding too much weight? Maybe there's a trick to setting up on rocky ground.

parker_thomas27d ago

Man, that brings back a bad memory. I was on a trip in Utah and did the same thing, cleared away the big rocks but missed a tiny, pointy one. Woke up flat on the ground at 3 AM. Ever since then, I just use a closed-cell foam pad. It's bulky, sure, but you can strap it outside your pack. The peace of mind is worth the hassle for me, because I know it won't pop. You can also sit on it around camp, which is a nice bonus.