As per my other topic, http://www.carpforum.co.uk/Shared/Messages.asp?TopicID=435553
I'm having trouble getting comfortable on my bedchair. I use an Avid Benchmark X sleep system. I've heard of people using a self inflating mat with their bed but I'm not sure how they are used. Could someone please explain to me where they are used and where they are put ??
I've slept on lots of mats in my hillwalking days so know how they work, but I'm wondering if one incorporated with my bed will help me.
Thanks.
I'm having trouble getting comfortable on my bedchair. I use an Avid Benchmark X sleep system. I've heard of people using a self inflating mat with their bed but I'm not sure how they are used. Could someone please explain to me where they are used and where they are put ??
I've slept on lots of mats in my hillwalking days so know how they work, but I'm wondering if one incorporated with my bed will help me.
Thanks.
In reply to Post #1
On your bed underneath your sleeping bag,I love my Helium 3.8 I have the valve so I can get to it by just lifting the hood on my bag a little
On your bed underneath your sleeping bag,I love my Helium 3.8 I have the valve so I can get to it by just lifting the hood on my bag a little
In reply to Post #2
Ok and thanks. But what do they do that makes the bed better ??
Ok and thanks. But what do they do that makes the bed better ??
In reply to Post #3
They are effectively a slimline air bed and provide additional support and insulation - they are bulkier but more effective than a slimline camping mat. They're designed for lightweight trekking / camping and using direct to the ground / ground sheet but they work even better on bedchairs - especially stiff flat bedchairs!
They are effectively a slimline air bed and provide additional support and insulation - they are bulkier but more effective than a slimline camping mat. They're designed for lightweight trekking / camping and using direct to the ground / ground sheet but they work even better on bedchairs - especially stiff flat bedchairs!
In reply to Post #4
I could do with extra support, but I don't fish winter sessions, so no need for the extra warmth. Might have to get one.
Thanks.
I could do with extra support, but I don't fish winter sessions, so no need for the extra warmth. Might have to get one.
Thanks.
In reply to Post #3
I have the Helium 3.8 too. A major advantage for me is that it takes up a lot of the difference in the sag of the matress and the bed frame. Being 6'+ my knees always end up on the edge of the bed when lying with my legs up and even if the bed has a skirt over the frame it can cause major pressure pain, something that's a thing of the past now thank god.
You might also want to consider changing the cord of the be to something with little stretch like Paracord or equiv (if not discussed already)
I have the Helium 3.8 too. A major advantage for me is that it takes up a lot of the difference in the sag of the matress and the bed frame. Being 6'+ my knees always end up on the edge of the bed when lying with my legs up and even if the bed has a skirt over the frame it can cause major pressure pain, something that's a thing of the past now thank god.
You might also want to consider changing the cord of the be to something with little stretch like Paracord or equiv (if not discussed already)
In reply to Post #1
Recently bought a Wychwood Tactical X compact bedchair and a Helium 3.8 SIM and I find it comfortable. The SIM definitely increases the warmth and comfort.
Recently bought a Wychwood Tactical X compact bedchair and a Helium 3.8 SIM and I find it comfortable. The SIM definitely increases the warmth and comfort.
some people say there isn't a difference between a cheep SIM or one designed by back packers for backpackers
personally I disagree I think you do get what you pay for especially if you want one that will last a few years and you dont want to sweat like a rapist
personally I disagree I think you do get what you pay for especially if you want one that will last a few years and you dont want to sweat like a rapist
In reply to Post #7
Got the same, literally 4 large blows and it's perfect
Got the same, literally 4 large blows and it's perfect
In reply to Post #8
Yes, I need to get a proper one, mine heats up Unbelievably, I have put up with it for too long..
Yes, I need to get a proper one, mine heats up Unbelievably, I have put up with it for too long..
In reply to Post #1
I'm sorry, but I'm still not 100% sure why, when having spent £200-£300, or even £500 plus on a sleep system, sticking a SIM underneath it makes it better ??
What does the SIM do to a sleep system that the manufacture fails to do to it in the first place.
I'm sorry, but I'm still not 100% sure why, when having spent £200-£300, or even £500 plus on a sleep system, sticking a SIM underneath it makes it better ??
What does the SIM do to a sleep system that the manufacture fails to do to it in the first place.
In reply to Post #11
The bedchair manufacturers literally just make a frame and hang some material with a bit of foam ionside it off of said frame under a bit of tension via some bungee cord.
The SIM will help to reduce the sag a little by spreading your weight more evenly across the material, insulating the 'mattress' part of the bed chair and improve comfort because you are sleeping on a layer of air as appose to material.
I personally bought a cheap 15 quid job first for my fox original flatliner and it literally transformed it
When i bought the duralite system, this old SIM was too big, so i bought a 3/4 size type SIM, again less than £20 and again it made a big difference. I notice it most in the winter as 95% of the time i still only use a 4 season bag and no cover. The 5 season bag or thermal cover dont even come out of the house unless its going to be a very hard frost
The bedchair manufacturers literally just make a frame and hang some material with a bit of foam ionside it off of said frame under a bit of tension via some bungee cord.
The SIM will help to reduce the sag a little by spreading your weight more evenly across the material, insulating the 'mattress' part of the bed chair and improve comfort because you are sleeping on a layer of air as appose to material.
I personally bought a cheap 15 quid job first for my fox original flatliner and it literally transformed it
When i bought the duralite system, this old SIM was too big, so i bought a 3/4 size type SIM, again less than £20 and again it made a big difference. I notice it most in the winter as 95% of the time i still only use a 4 season bag and no cover. The 5 season bag or thermal cover dont even come out of the house unless its going to be a very hard frost
In reply to Post #11
It provides more effective support by spreading your weight and cushions hips / knees / shoulders especially if you're a side sleeper . . .
I've got a Helium 3.8 and a cheaper Amazon special (different widths / different sized bedchairs) and IMO there is zero difference in comfort and/or breathability; longevity (and quality of valve) maybe but I've had the cheaper one 2 seasons and it still fine - I've only had the newer more expensive Helium for a few months so hard to tell and I use it a lot less anyway.
Personally would find the right width first and then spend your £ accordingly - the Helium 3.8 does fit the Wychwood Compact X bedchair perfectly however on the standard its too narrow . . .
Trakker used to sell a SIM but I'm not sure whether its now been discontinued
It provides more effective support by spreading your weight and cushions hips / knees / shoulders especially if you're a side sleeper . . .
I've got a Helium 3.8 and a cheaper Amazon special (different widths / different sized bedchairs) and IMO there is zero difference in comfort and/or breathability; longevity (and quality of valve) maybe but I've had the cheaper one 2 seasons and it still fine - I've only had the newer more expensive Helium for a few months so hard to tell and I use it a lot less anyway.
Personally would find the right width first and then spend your £ accordingly - the Helium 3.8 does fit the Wychwood Compact X bedchair perfectly however on the standard its too narrow . . .
Trakker used to sell a SIM but I'm not sure whether its now been discontinued
In reply to Post #13
I've got the same standard bed Belch. What is the amazon one called please ?
I've got the same standard bed Belch. What is the amazon one called please ?
In reply to Post #14
Actually bought it from Ebay (buy it now) for £16.95
Adtrek Green XL Single Self Inflating Camping Mat Mattress With Pillow - 3cms
Its saying not available on Amazon but here's a link
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Adtrek-Inflating-Camping-Mattress-Included/dp/B01F8QI0R0
Fits the inner width of the standard perfectly and is a decent length (as the bedchair is long) - I also like the slightly raised headsection as it elevates the pillow end slightly (used to having 2x pillows at home)
Main thing is to measure the bedchair inside the perimeter padding - the thicker the SIM the more bulky the inflated size when folded in the bedchair
Actually bought it from Ebay (buy it now) for £16.95
Adtrek Green XL Single Self Inflating Camping Mat Mattress With Pillow - 3cms
Its saying not available on Amazon but here's a link
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Adtrek-Inflating-Camping-Mattress-Included/dp/B01F8QI0R0
Fits the inner width of the standard perfectly and is a decent length (as the bedchair is long) - I also like the slightly raised headsection as it elevates the pillow end slightly (used to having 2x pillows at home)
Main thing is to measure the bedchair inside the perimeter padding - the thicker the SIM the more bulky the inflated size when folded in the bedchair
In reply to Post #13
The helium 3.8 is more or less the perfect fit on a standard bed. Ive got the wider slightly thicker mountain equipment glacier 5.0 on my wide sp bed and that fits perfectly inside the outer padded section as is even more comfy.
The helium 3.8 is more or less the perfect fit on a standard bed. Ive got the wider slightly thicker mountain equipment glacier 5.0 on my wide sp bed and that fits perfectly inside the outer padded section as is even more comfy.
In reply to Post #15
Thanks a lot..can't find it on ebay either. But.not in a.massibe hurry.
Thanks a lot..can't find it on ebay either. But.not in a.massibe hurry.
In reply to Post #16
I have found the same on the three beds I have had it on too
I have found the same on the three beds I have had it on too
In reply to Post #16
Helium is narrow at 510mm on standard IMO - annoys me when I turn over! Adtrek / larger SIMs are 610mm which is perfect on standard - could depend on how large / fat you are / I am . . . !
Helium is narrow at 510mm on standard IMO - annoys me when I turn over! Adtrek / larger SIMs are 610mm which is perfect on standard - could depend on how large / fat you are / I am . . . !
In reply to Post #18
yep +3
I have used my Helium on 3 different beds and its been perfect not too narrow at all on any of them and I was 17 stone with a 50" chest
and never needed to blow into it and turn it into an Airbed either its called a Self inflating mattress for a reason
yep +3
I have used my Helium on 3 different beds and its been perfect not too narrow at all on any of them
and I was 17 stone with a 50" chest and never needed to blow into it and turn it into an Airbed either
its called a Self inflating mattress for a reason
In reply to Post #5
Measured up my bed and the ME Glacier 5 fits perfect. So I've took the plunge and ordered one.
Measured up my bed and the ME Glacier 5 fits perfect. So I've took the plunge and ordered one.
In reply to Post #21
Just ordered the ME Glacier 5.0 for my Solar SP wide Sleep system. Got it for £65 (RRP £120) with next day delivery from Cotswold Outdoors
Just ordered the ME Glacier 5.0 for my Solar SP wide Sleep system. Got it for £65 (RRP £120) with next day delivery from Cotswold Outdoors
In reply to Post #22
you've got to be careful not to buy one too thick for the sake of it
you've got to be careful not to buy one too thick for the sake of it
In reply to Post #23
The glacier 5.0 is the perfect thickness.
The glacier 5.0 is the perfect thickness.
In reply to Post #24
I put my sleeping bag on top my sim and sleep on top of it with the bed chair cover to cover me..
As I am always getting far too hot maybe I should get rid of the sleeping bag, but I don't want to sleep directly on the SIM
. What does everyone cover their SIM with, I am presuming it's too hot for anybody to get in a sleeping bag atm..
I put my sleeping bag on top my sim and sleep on top of it with the bed chair cover to cover me..
As I am always getting far too hot maybe I should get rid of the sleeping bag, but I don't want to sleep directly on the SIM
. What does everyone cover their SIM with, I am presuming it's too hot for anybody to get in a sleeping bag atm..
In reply to Post #25
I purchased a single bed fitted cotton mattress cover off amazon for about 7 quid, does the job perfectly
I purchased a single bed fitted cotton mattress cover off amazon for about 7 quid, does the job perfectly
In reply to Post #26
Sorry if this is a stupid question... Does the sim replace the crappy foam mattress supplied or does that go on top off the sim after?
Sorry if this is a stupid question... Does the sim replace the crappy foam mattress supplied or does that go on top off the sim after?
In reply to Post #27
>>>>>Sorry if this is a stupid question... Does the sim replace the crappy foam mattress supplied or does that go on top off the sim after?<<<<
That's two questions and its "No" to both.
The "SIM" goes on top of the "crappy foam mattress".
>>>>>Sorry if this is a stupid question... Does the sim replace the crappy foam mattress supplied or does that go on top off the sim after?<<<<
That's two questions and its "No" to both.
The "SIM" goes on top of the "crappy foam mattress".
In reply to Post #20
Sorry for lack of a link but is this the one you use Gerry?
And does it fit on your solar bed okay?
https://www.cotswoldoutdoor.com/p/mountain-equipment-helium-3-8-warm-zone-sleeping-mat-D2424300.html?colour=98
Thanks
MH
Sorry for lack of a link but is this the one you use Gerry?
And does it fit on your solar bed okay?
https://www.cotswoldoutdoor.com/p/mountain-equipment-helium-3-8-warm-zone-sleeping-mat-D2424300.html?colour=98
Thanks
MH
In reply to Post #29
yes that's the one Gerry recommends, I can confirm it fits the Solar C-Tech and also the Trakker ELS perfectly
yes that's the one Gerry recommends, I can confirm it fits the Solar C-Tech and also the Trakker ELS perfectly
In reply to Post #30
Cheers Rob
Cheers Rob
In reply to Post #21
Well.
Mine turned up yesterday, and today I've tried it out on the bed, only in the garage, but a proper try out will be forthcoming. The ME Glacier 5 is ever so slightly too long for my Benchmark X, but not a problem. Fits perfectly width wise, and if I did doubt anyone advice (don't think I did) then apologies. It just makes the bed a whole lot better. I now feel like I'm going to be sleeping "on" the bed rather than "in" it.
I sleep on my back, and before the SIM, I felt almost like I was sleeping in a Hammock rather than a bed, even after tightening up the bungees twice. Hopefully, I'll get a better nights sleep now, bar the odd fish or two.
One last thing.
Does everyone leave them on their beds or remove them and fix them on before every trip ??
Well.
Mine turned up yesterday, and today I've tried it out on the bed, only in the garage, but a proper try out will be forthcoming. The ME Glacier 5 is ever so slightly too long for my Benchmark X, but not a problem. Fits perfectly width wise, and if I did doubt anyone advice (don't think I did) then apologies. It just makes the bed a whole lot better. I now feel like I'm going to be sleeping "on" the bed rather than "in" it.
I sleep on my back, and before the SIM, I felt almost like I was sleeping in a Hammock rather than a bed, even after tightening up the bungees twice. Hopefully, I'll get a better nights sleep now, bar the odd fish or two.
One last thing.
Does everyone leave them on their beds or remove them and fix them on before every trip ??
In reply to Post #32
Leave them on.. Too much fuss taking off they fold up easily. 🙂
Leave them on.. Too much fuss taking off they fold up easily. 🙂
In reply to Post #32
probably already mentioned - swap out the elastic for paracord. It makes a world of difference!
probably already mentioned - swap out the elastic for paracord. It makes a world of difference!
In reply to Post #29
Mark thats the one I use, very comfy for a portly chap like me
Michael
Mark thats the one I use, very comfy for a portly chap like me
Michael
In reply to Post #29
Yes it is and PERSONALLY ! I follow the instructions to the letter
as its called a SIM for a reason ( self inflating mattress )
so I dont blow into it as IMO it simply turns it to an airbed and would not even feel the special high density and foam inside
and is no where near as comfortable you have to appreciate these things are meant to lay on hard ground and we are putting them on a mattress
by having SPACE for the air to move around its a bit like laying on a water bed and is superbly comfy
Yes it is and PERSONALLY ! I follow the instructions to the letter
as its called a SIM for a reason ( self inflating mattress )
so I dont blow into it as IMO it simply turns it to an airbed and would not even feel the special high density and foam inside
and is no where near as comfortable you have to appreciate these things are meant to lay on hard ground and we are putting them on a mattress
by having SPACE for the air to move around its a bit like laying on a water bed and is superbly comfy
In reply to Post #36
Spot on
Spot on
Reading ALL pages