Exped MegaMat LXW Review

Bottom Line

The Exped MegaMat LXW ranks at the top of our best camping mattresses guide because it’s cozy, durable, and easy to use. Gear Analyst Ian Krammer has used this mattress for years – its tricot polyester fabric is among the softest and comfiest materials we’ve tested. 

The MegaMat’s all-around performance makes it one of our favorites. The 4-inch thick foam and air combination devours bumpy, uneven, and rocky ground for a sound night of sleep in any position and almost any terrain. The self-inflating feature works well, but EXPED also includes a foot pump to make setup faster. The excellent storage sack design is practical and convenient, so there’s no wrestling when storing. It’s among the warmest mattresses on our guide, too, keeping us toasty in brutal winter temperatures.

However, comfort comes with a bulk penalty. The MegaMat LXW is on the heavy side compared to other mattresses, but our main issue is its packed length – it’s one of the longest models we’ve tested and reviewed. That means you’ll need plenty of space in a trunk or gear closet, especially for two or more mattresses. For a smaller packed size, consider the Medium or Long lengths instead. 

It’s also on the pricey side, which may not fit every budget. But, for long-lasting comfort and durability, this thing is worth the investment for those who prioritize a good night’s sleep. For one of the best mattresses on the market for sleeping – whether you’re camping, festival hopping, roadtriping, or simply needing an extra guest bed – the MegaMat’s solid all-around performance makes it our number one choice of the year.

Comfort

The Exped MegaMat earns top marks for comfort. Thanks to a cozy tricot polyester fabric on top, it’s soft to the touch but doesn’t feel slippery or catch on our baselayers. Its 4-inch thickness is average compared to most of the mattresses on our list, but it feels thicker and cushier than that, thanks to a thick foam layer on top.

It’s so cushy that you can set up pretty much anywhere. Senior Gear Analyst Ian Krammer has passed out easily on less-than-ideal campsites full of rocks and roots since its thick materials gobble up lumpy, bumpy ground and prevent pressure points. Gear Analyst and Editor Jory Brass has paired the MegaMat with the Exped MegaPillow for a sweet sleep setup.

Ian is a chaotic sleeper. He alternates between all positions throughout the night, which is why we love the vertical sidewalls of the MegaMat LXW. This design maximizes space, unlike rounded walls. Whether you’re a stomach, side, or back sleeper, we highly recommend this one for spreading out.

We’re big fans of the highly customizable firmness as well. Once the pad is inflated, add a bit of air with the included foot pump – a simple, round device that attaches snugly to the intake valve. It needs just a few squeezes or presses of the foot to firm up the pad. Release small amounts of air to dial in the pressure with a gentle press of a tab on the intake valve. Also, this pad is one of the widest of any on our list, measuring 30.3 inches. That extra quarter-inch may not seem like much – but after thoroughly testing all of the models, we find the extra bit of room is noticeable and luxurious. If you want even more room, this mattress also comes in a double version for folks who like to share space.

Ease of Use

Setting up the Exped MegaMat LXW is very straightforward. The self-inflating design requires almost no effort – unroll it, open the valve, and let the mattress fill up for about 10 minutes. If you need it to fill faster, EXPED includes a handy, easy-to-use foot pump that clips onto the valve and requires repeated stepping to add air to the mattress. It reduces inflation time to about 5 minutes. The pump is also great for increasing firmness once it’s mostly filled – just add a few deep breaths to adjust the pressure.

For folks who use the MegaMat regularly, we highly recommend investing in the EXPED Mega Pump. It’s a bit pricey, but the convenience is incredible. This powerhouse rechargeable pump can fill the mattress in only 30 seconds. Conversely, the dump valve is excellent for fast deflation, and our testing found the MegaMat rolls up easily the first time for easy packing.

EXPED recently added a handle to the side of their mattress, which we love. Handles are a rarity on most mattresses, so it’s easier to maneuver and carry once inflated. 

Finally, if you want an easy-to-carry bag, this one earns top marks. The carrying case design is excellent, with a dedicated internal pocket to hold the foot pump. A lengthwise opening means there’s no issue with fitting the mattress inside, and a roll-top design with a clip closure gets most of the air out – and doubles as shoulder strap for ultra portability.

Warmth

The Exped MegaMat LXW is in the top 3 warmest mattresses on our guide. With its thick, 4-inch foam construction, it boasts an impressive R-value of 8.1, making it a stellar choice for year-round camping. It’s one of our go-to’s for seriously cold conditions. In theory, this R-Value should keep us warm well below 0°F, so we put all that insulation to the test.

Gear Analyst Ian Krammer tried out the MegaMat LXW in some of the coldest conditions he could find in Colorado. He slept two nights on the MegaMat in overnight temps of -8°F during a winter trip to Dinosaur National Monument, and it performed exceptionally well. We recognize that’s a lower temp than most folks will ever sleep in, but it proves the MegaMat’s quality, durability, and warmth for year-round camping and makes this one a top choice for cold sleepers.

Packed Size

One of our only issues with Megamat LXW is that it packs down a bit longer than most of the competition. Most camping mattresses we tested range between 30 and 31 inches, but the Long Wide packs to 31.1 inches. Of course, a tenth of an inch is an incredibly small amount – but it’s our job to split hairs.

Want a narrower option? The Medium Wide is only 25.6 inches, so if space is tight, go with a smaller version. Still, these are objectively bulky products, so make sure there’s room for them in the car and storage area in addition to the rest of your camping kit.

Should You Buy the Exped MegaMat?

The Exped MegaMat LXW sets the standard for campers who want top-tier comfort, warmth, and ease of use out of their mattress. Its self-inflating design and 4-inch thickness make it a great choice for those who want a plush, restful sleep on uneven ground. The spacious size and ultra-warm R-Value make it perfect for cold-weather campers who need superior insulation. The mini pump design, convenient stuff sack, and high-quality materials earn the MegaMat top scores across the board, and it remains one of our favorite mattresses for camping and beyond.

However, the MegaMat may not be the best for campers with limited space or those looking for ultralight gear. It’s a bit bulky and packs long, which might not work for everyone. Additionally, the higher price tag may be a deterrent for budget-conscious adventurers – although, it’s certainly not the most expensive, and you’ll get years of use from this mattress. Overall, if you’re after a good night’s sleep outdoors, the MegaMat delivers exceptional value, making it our top pick of the year for most campers.

What Other Camping Mattresses Should You Consider?

Here are some other great choices from our guide to the best camping mattresses: 

Therm-A-Rest Mondoking 3D XXL Review: The MondoKing 3D is a close second when it comes to quality, price, and warmth. This one is even thicker, though – by a quarter inch – making it feel more plush and cozy. 

Sea To Summit Comfort Deluxe LW Review: The Comfort Deluxe shares the supportive design, durability, and comfortable fabric exterior as the MegaMat. It’s not as warm, but this one has a smaller packed size for better portability. 

HEST Foamy Wide: If you’re looking for the warmest of the warm camping mattress on our list, the HEST Foamy steals the show with an 8.8 R-Value. The downside is it has an enormous packed size, and is much bulkier and heavier.