What Makes Exped MegaMat Duo+ Stand Out?
The Exped MegaMat Duo+ isn’t just a sleeping pad; it’s a portable slice of home comfort designed for couples or solo adventurers who prioritize a good night’s sleep in the great outdoors. Manufactured by Exped, this mat boasts a generous size, supreme comfort, and exceptional warmth, making it a serious contender for the best camping mattress on the market. Its standout features include a plush 4-inch foam core, a self-inflating design with customizable firmness, and durable, recycled materials, all wrapped in a package that’s surprisingly manageable.
My search for the perfect camping sleep solution started with recurring back pain after nights spent on thinner, less supportive pads. I needed something that replicated the comfort of my mattress at home, without sacrificing portability or ease of use. The Exped MegaMat Duo+ promised to deliver exactly that.
Unboxing the Exped MegaMat Duo+ felt like unwrapping a luxury item. The weight was noticeable, a testament to its robust construction, but the soft, recycled polyester fabric and the overall build quality immediately impressed me. It felt like a premium product built to last.
I considered other options like the Therm-a-Rest MondoKing 3D and the NEMO Roamer Double, both respected names in the camping world. However, the Exped MegaMat Duo+’s combination of thickness, self-inflation, and user-adjustable firmness ultimately swayed my decision. The promise of truly customizable comfort won me over.
My first impression was a mix of excitement and a touch of apprehension about its packed size. However, the initial feel of the plush surface and the prospect of finally sleeping soundly under the stars overshadowed any concerns. This seemed like a game-changer.
Real-World Testing: Putting Exped MegaMat Duo+ to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test took place during a fall camping trip in the Smoky Mountains. The weather was damp, and the nights were dipping into the low 40s. The Exped MegaMat Duo+ was deployed inside a large canvas tent, providing a significant buffer against the cold ground.
The mat performed exceptionally well, providing excellent insulation and cushioning. The damp ground was completely undetectable, and the 4-inch foam offered remarkable support. I experienced zero back pain and enjoyed a level of comfort I hadn’t previously thought possible while camping.
The Exped MegaMat Duo+ was relatively easy to use. The self-inflating feature worked efficiently, requiring only a few puffs from the included Top-Up Pump to reach my desired firmness. While deflating the mat took some effort, the two large deflation valves sped up the process considerably.
After the first use, I noticed a slight new-product smell, which dissipated quickly. The only other minor issue was getting the mat perfectly rolled and packed back into its stuff sack, but this improved with practice.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, across various camping trips, the Exped MegaMat Duo+ has proven to be remarkably durable. There are no signs of wear and tear on the fabric, and the valves continue to function flawlessly. The mat has retained its shape and loft, showing no signs of compression or degradation of the foam.
Maintenance is simple: a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep it clean. I’ve also used a mild detergent for tougher stains without any issues. Storing the mat unrolled when possible helps maintain its inflation capacity.
Compared to previous camping mattresses I’ve owned, the Exped MegaMat Duo+ is in a different league. It outperforms them in every aspect: comfort, warmth, durability, and ease of use. It has redefined my expectations for outdoor sleeping.
Breaking Down the Features of Exped MegaMat Duo+
Specifications
- The Exped MegaMat Duo+ boasts a 4-inch thick mattress, comprised of high-quality open-cell polyurethane foam, ensuring optimal warmth and cushioning. This thickness is crucial for preventing “bottoming out” and providing a comfortable sleep surface for back and side sleepers alike.
- It is made with soft, 100% recycled 4-way stretch tricot polyester, enhancing comfort and minimizing environmental impact. This ensures a soft, next-to-skin feel and promotes sustainable practices.
- Air channels cored out of the foam allow for self-inflation and easier deflation. This feature reduces weight and bulk while enhancing convenience.
- The “Long Wide” size ensures ample sleeping space for two people. It measures generously to comfortably accommodate couples or provide extra room for solo sleepers.
- It includes two large one-way deflate FlatValves to provide higher air flow and improved deflation ability. Faster deflation streamlines the pack-up process.
- Duo models feature 30% more foam coring to match single models, allowing for faster deflation, lighter weight & smaller packed size. This improves portability.
- It is Cypress in color and made by Exped.
Performance & Functionality
The Exped MegaMat Duo+ excels in delivering exceptional comfort and warmth in various outdoor conditions. Its 4-inch foam core provides excellent insulation and cushioning, making it suitable for use in cold weather and on uneven terrain. The ability to adjust the firmness is invaluable, allowing users to dial in their preferred level of support.
The self-inflating feature works well, though the Top-Up Pump is essential for achieving maximum firmness. Deflation requires some effort, but the large valves and the ability to roll the mat tightly minimize the struggle. Its performance easily exceeds that of typical air mattresses or thinner foam pads.
One minor area for improvement is the stuff sack, which could be slightly larger to make packing easier, especially in cold weather when the mat is less pliable. However, overall, the Exped MegaMat Duo+ meets and exceeds expectations for a premium camping mattress.
Design & Ergonomics
The Exped MegaMat Duo+ features a well-thought-out design that prioritizes comfort and usability. The rectangular shape maximizes sleeping space and avoids the tapered edges found on many other pads. The vertical sidewall construction mimics the feel of a home mattress, enhancing the overall sleep experience.
The build quality is excellent. The materials feel durable and the seams are well-sealed. The weight is substantial, but reasonable considering the level of comfort and insulation provided. While there’s a slight learning curve to perfecting the rolling and packing process, the overall design is user-friendly.
Durability & Maintenance
The Exped MegaMat Duo+ is built to last. The high-quality materials and robust construction ensure it can withstand the rigors of outdoor use. The 100% recycled 4-way stretch tricot polyester fabric is resistant to abrasions and punctures.
Maintenance is relatively simple. Wiping the mat down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. For more stubborn dirt, a mild soap can be used. Storing the mat unrolled when possible helps prolong its lifespan and maintain its inflation capacity.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Exped MegaMat Duo+ comes with a roll-top SideWinder stuff sack for easy storage and a temporary repair kit with an adhesive patch. The Top-Up pump is included.
While there are no specific customization options, the mat is compatible with standard sleeping bags and bedding. A separate Exped Mega Pump can be purchased to accelerate deflation.
Pros and Cons of Exped MegaMat Duo+
Pros
- Unparalleled Comfort: The 4-inch foam core provides exceptional cushioning and support, replicating the feel of a home mattress.
- Superior Warmth: Excellent insulation ensures a comfortable night’s sleep even in cold conditions.
- Self-Inflating Design: Makes setup quick and easy.
- Adjustable Firmness: Allows users to customize the level of support.
- Durable Construction: Made with high-quality materials built to withstand outdoor use.
Cons
- Size and Weight: Can be bulky and heavy for backpacking.
- Price: A significant investment compared to other camping mattresses.
Who Should Buy Exped MegaMat Duo+?
Perfect for: Car campers, overlanders, anyone prioritizing comfort over weight, couples seeking a shared sleep surface, individuals with back pain or other sleep-related issues.
Who should skip this product? Backpackers looking to minimize weight and bulk, budget-conscious campers.
Must-have accessories or modifications? An Exped Mega Pump to assist with deflation, a larger stuff sack (optional).
Conclusion on Exped MegaMat Duo+
The Exped MegaMat Duo+ is a premium camping mattress that delivers on its promise of exceptional comfort and warmth. It’s a significant investment, but one that’s justified by its performance, durability, and ability to transform the outdoor sleeping experience. While its size and weight may not be suitable for backpacking, it’s an ideal choice for car camping and overlanding, where comfort is a top priority.
The price is definitely on the higher end, but for those who value a good night’s sleep while camping, the Exped MegaMat Duo+ is worth every penny. It’s a game-changer for anyone who has struggled with uncomfortable camping mattresses in the past.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Exped MegaMat Duo+ to anyone looking for the ultimate in camping comfort. Invest in your sleep and transform your next outdoor adventure!