Mention the word "camping," and one of the first items that come to mind is a sleeping bag. After all, they're lightweight, they're portable, and they're cozy. They easy to set up and can easily shrink down for transportation. But have you ever considered using a foldable mattress for outdoors?

What's a foldable mattress?

A foldable mattress is as the name describes: a mattress that folds. They come in a variety of thicknesses and are made from different materials. They usually have covers to protect the foam from damages and dust mites. And most of all, you can easily transport them.

While both the indoor and outdoor kinds are similar, the ideal foldable mattress for outdoors will have qualities that are more suitable for traveling. Consider the following when shopping for a foldable mattress for outdoors:

• Size - Foldable mattresses come in different sizes: single, twin, full, queen, etc. The size you need depends on your particular situation, so don't grab the largest mattress or the cheapest brand without consideration. Are you going to be the only one using it? Do you need to fit it inside a tent?

• Thickness - The mattress' thickness usually dictates how it'll support your weight, which in turn determines how comfortable it will be. Thicker ones provide more support but are heavier. Meanwhile, thinner mattresses may not feel like they give enough support, but are lighter to carry.

Also, keep in mind that the thicker the mattress, the bulkier it is to carry. The ideal foldable mattress for outdoors should never be too large but can still able to provide a good night's sleep.

• Weight - Whether you're hiking up a mountain or doing a family camping trip, make sure your mattress isn't weighing you down. Thinner mattresses made from lightweight materials can weigh as low as 8 pounds, while bigger mattresses can weigh as heavy as a whopping 27 pounds.

• Portability - Foldable mattresses are made up of several pieces of foam, held together by a cover that allows them to "fold." The most common configuration is a three-way fold, while some units try to offer more functionality. A few brands have smaller folds to give you a makeshift pillow, while some can be turned into a sofa.

Additionally, it won't be uncommon to find foldable mattresses with carrying straps or carrying handles. These usually have Velcro straps to secure each folded piece together.

• Price - There are two kinds to consider: memory foam and conventional foam. Memory foam mattresses command a premium on the market but are more comfortable to use. Even the thinner models can support your weight better than traditional foam.

On the other hand, conventional mattresses are cheaper and lighter but can be less durable. Poorly-made ones flatten after a few uses, which can turn into an uncomfortable sleep. If you prefer traditional foam over memory foam, make sure you buy a reputable brand to ensure durability.

Final thoughts

Picking a suitable foldable mattress for outdoors can be overwhelming with all the options available, but it doesn't have to be. Doing the proper research beforehand ensures that you know which one works best for your needs. Keep these tips in mind, and you'll be one step closer to getting a comfortable sleep outdoors.