How to Fold A Therm-A-Rest Mattress

Hey Scouters,

Do you know how frustrating it can be to try and get something back into its bag once you’ve taken it out? It can feel almost impossible, right? Well, let me share a tip that’s been a game-changer for me, thanks to a helpful salesman and my trusty Therm-a-Rest sleeping pad. I bought this pad over 20 years ago, and it’s still going strong—I love it. But had the salesman not shown me the trick to packing it up, I’d still be wrestling with it every time I used it.

The secret lies in that locking valve system. If you’ve got one of these self-inflating pads, this method will make your life so much easier. Here’s exactly how I do it:

Step 1: Unlock the Valve

Start by unlocking the valve to let the air begin escaping. Since the pad is self-inflating, you’ll need to roll it a few times to get as much air out as possible. On the first roll, focus on compressing the pad and pushing out the majority of the air. Use your body weight to help—it really makes a difference!

Step 2: Lock the Valve

Once you’ve gotten as much air out as you can on the first roll, lock the valve. This is key because it prevents the pad from reinflating as you move to the next step.

Step 3: Unroll and Roll Again

Now, unroll the pad completely. With the valve still locked, begin rolling it again. This time, you can roll it much tighter since the bulk of the air is already gone. Many people make the mistake of trying to push all the air out in one go, but the two-step process works so much better. That locking valve system really comes in handy here.

Step 4: Unlock, Compress, and Final Roll

Once you’ve rolled it tightly, unlock the valve again to let out any remaining air. Use your weight to press down and get every last bit of air out. You’d be surprised how much air can still be trapped in there! After that, lock the valve one final time and finish rolling it up.

Step 5: Pack It Up

When the pad is rolled up tight, it’s time to put it back in the bag. I like to position the nozzle at the top when I slide it in—it just feels more organized that way. If I hadn’t learned to use the lock-and-unlock technique, I would have never figured out how to make it fit so neatly.

Storage Tip

If you’re not planning to use your Therm-a-Rest pad for a while, it’s best to store it out of the bag with the valve unlocked. This allows air to flow in and helps maintain the pad’s integrity over time.

Why I Love This Method

The locking valve system is the real hero here. Without it, getting all the air out would be a struggle, and the pad would never fit back in the bag so easily. It’s a small feature, but it makes a big difference. And honestly, this simple process has saved me countless headaches over the years.

So, the next time you’re packing up your gear, give this method a try. Whether you’re heading out on another adventure or just putting your equipment away, knowing how to properly pack your Therm-a-Rest pad will save you time and frustration. Ready to roll? You’ve got this!