A sleeping pad is a great way to stay comfortable, warm and supported while sleeping outdoors. It usually consists of an insulated foam core sandwiched between two durable nylon layers and ranges in thickness from two to four inches. Sleeping pads help shield you from the cold ground and provide extra padding for comfort. They are lightweight, easy to carry and provide great warmth insulation. They are also extremely versatile, as they can be used for camping, backpacking or just lounging in the backyard.