These range from standard closed-cell insulation mats to self inflating mats to the latest technological airbeds. Modern sleeping mats also come in avariety of lengths. For most cases a three-quarter length mat is sufficient but full length mats can be very welcome in winter conditions.
Unless you sleep really cold a winter sleeping bag for UK use will generally be too warm. Having said that, there are nights when a full winter bag is appreciated and such a bag will be welcomed for Alpine winters and Himalayan or South American trekking trips. Down is the best insulation for winter bags as synthetic insulations will make the bag too heavy.
Ostensibly designed for spring, summer and autumn conditions in practise a three season bag is best used in early spring or late autumn. In the UK most backpackers tend to use a summer bag for the warm months and a three-season bag for the rest of the year.
