How to Make a Camp Bed More Comfortable — Tips and Accessories

Upgrading Your Camp Bed Comfort

A camp bed on its own is already a massive upgrade from sleeping on the ground, but with a few simple additions you can create a sleep setup that genuinely rivals your bed at home. As you prepare your camping kit for summer 2026, these comfort upgrades are well worth the small extra investment.

Add a Self-Inflating Mat

This is the single best upgrade you can make. A 5cm thick self-inflating mat placed on top of your camp bed adds cushioning that smooths out the frame beneath you. It also adds insulation on cooler nights, trapping a layer of warm air between you and the camp bed surface. Look for mats designed for camp bed widths rather than standard sleeping mats, which can slide around.

Invest in a Proper Pillow

A rolled-up jumper or stuffed jacket does not provide proper neck support. A dedicated camping pillow with memory foam or inflatable construction keeps your neck aligned and prevents the stiffness that ruins your first morning at camp. Compact travel pillows pack down to almost nothing.

Choose the Right Sleeping Bag

Your sleeping bag matters as much as your bed. For camp bed use, rectangular bags are generally better than mummy bags — they give you room to move and turn without feeling restricted. In summer, a lightweight bag or even a sleeping bag liner may be all you need.

Use a Sleeping Bag Liner

A cotton or silk liner adds comfort and warmth while keeping your sleeping bag cleaner for longer. On warm summer nights, a liner alone can be enough bedding. On cooler nights, it adds an extra season of warmth to your sleeping bag rating.

Position the Bed Correctly

• Place the bed on the flattest part of your tent floor
• Avoid positioning directly against tent walls where condensation collects
• Check all four legs are evenly supported to prevent rocking
• If the ground is soft, place something flat under each leg to stop sinking

Consider a Side Organiser

A hanging organiser that drapes over the camp bed frame keeps your phone, torch, glasses and other essentials within arm reach during the night. It is a small thing that makes a big difference to convenience.

Browse our camp bed range and accessories to build your perfect summer sleep setup.