Best for warmth that is light weight and easy to pack?
Big Agnes Insulated Air Core.
You can thank me after your first night sleeping on it :)
How cold are you talking about? If it doesn't get much below 25-30 degrees I use a ThermaRest Z-Rest closed cell foam mat. They're cheap, light, and will keep you warm if you put a space blanket underneath, use a good bag, and wear a stocking cap. The don't fold down very small, however.
If it gets much colder than that, I use a DAM (down-filled air mattress) that is insulated with 800 fill down. There are lots out there to choose from. They're ultralight, ultra-compact, ultra-warm, ultra-cozy, BUT ultra-expensive! They also lend themselves to punctures, which can lead to dangerous situations in the winter if your mat goes flat and you can't repair it adequately. However, DAM's do often have the highest R-value. Just don't sleep with your broadheads!
One more thing...if you get an inflatable mattress, get one that is self inflating. All those of good quality designed for winter use will be. Then, be patient enough to let it inflate itself. It will take longer in winter. You DON'T want to blow air into the pad, as the condensation could freeze when you roll it up and put it inside your pack the next day. This ain't a good thing! :eek:
I went with the Wiggy's superlite. I'd like to be comfy at 0 to 15 degrees but doubt I'd ever intentionally sleep out in that temperature range.
I liked the little pads I used when I was in the Army. IMAO nothing beats a Good Fire bed.
Fire Bed, A pit/ditch dug in to the ground just about a foot or so deep and fill with hot coals. Cover with dirt so you don't burn up, and You can stand temps down to -5 deg's if need be. Survival 101
Steve O., What's your sleep number?
2nd the Big Agnes
For backpack camping, I use a Ridgerest closed cell foam pad because it is light and works well enough when used correctly. Lay it on a bed of leaves, pine bows or loamy soil. They weigh less than a pound and can be lashed anywhere.
Mike,
I don't know my Sleep #, but I do know that my 15oz. BA IAC matress is more comfortable than my bed at home :D
BA's rock! If you have a Wiggys bag get the 25" BA insulated Air Core.