In prep for next year, The sleep solution required equipment currently lists a sleeping bag, poncho liner or sleeping bag line of some sort, plus a mattress or pad of some sort. My question is this: if you have a boat with trampoline nets and intend to sleep on the tramp, is the sleeping pad still required to pass inspection? Tramps are quite comfortable and act like a hammock.
Thanks!
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Sleep solution rule question for inspection
(10 posts) (8 voices)-
Posted 7 years ago #
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Mark, I think the sleeping pad was more for insulation from cold ground rather than for comfort.
Posted 7 years ago # -
Yes, but if you're not on the ground is it still required?
Posted 7 years ago # -
I would be inclined to say that even sleeping on your tramps a sleeping pad would AT LEAST be a really good idea. On a tramp, your sleeping bag will be crushed between your body and the tramp, and offer no protection from the cold air beneath you. When I'm using a hammock, I still use a pad. Again, not for comfort, but for insulation.
Besides that... pads have lots of other uses. I use a z-lite (short) and it has served as a sleeping pad, boat fender against crusty pilings, comfy seat for camp or boat, etc...
The short z-lite is very light (10oz!) and very compact, there is really no reason not to take one along.
http://www.cascadedesigns.com/therm-a-rest/mattresses/fast-and-light/z-lite/product
Posted 7 years ago # -
Pad is a must. I've slept on tarpaulins and in the bottom hull of my canoe and Macatawa is right. The heat will be sucked right out of you
Posted 7 years ago # -
Remember if you are running on the outside south of Chocoloskee to Flamingo there is the real possiblity of finding yourself shipwrecked. Whether strong weather or equipment failure, you may have to find a way to shelter yourself on land. There are some amazingly compact inflatable pads for backpackers that weigh almost nothing that would fit the bill. DWM
Posted 7 years ago # -
Yes, you still need a sleeping pad when sleeping on a trampoline. Virtually any sleeping bag has a pretty low R rating on the bottom. Many times in Florida it doesn't matter that much expecially as you go south. But we also have temps in 30's and windy and wet conditions in some years.
Imagine sitting on a beach in a very cold weather hold. You will want the pad of some sort in order to stay warm.
One more thing you might want to consider. Carry a large, plastic garbage bag to put down under the pad when anchored out in bad weather. It might help keep the bottom of your bag a little drier.
BTW, you also need a pad if using a hammock. It's not about comfort, it's all about R value.
Posted 7 years ago # -
For those sleeping on trampolines, it may be an idea to consider using an old foam pad, which many years ago was about the only pad around, particularly for snow camping. One I could find is here. These pads have many benefits; retain a lot of warmth, don't mind being punctured or wet, and can be cut to fit anything more size related. I use a small rectangle--a little bigger than bum size--in my tent each evening while cleaning myself off with wipes and baby powder.
KB
Posted 7 years ago # -
Were we supposed to be getting sleep during these events?
Posted 7 years ago # -
Thanks for all the great feedback and thanks for chiming in Chief!!!
Posted 7 years ago #
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