Packing up/carrying a wide (Gossamer Gear) sleeping pad

**Legobusier** · 02-08-2014, 08:39

Hey guys....first post here...go gentle on me!

I've been acquiring gear over the past few months, and received a Gossamer Gear 1/4" Wide sleeping pad that's 40" wide.

I can't wait to use it - I've tested it in the bottom of my double-layer Blackbird and it's great....but...

How the heck do you guys pack/carry this thing. It's a bear to fold and/or roll in the comfort of my home..I can't imagine doing so in the dark/rain on the trail....

Any suggestions...? I'm hoping I'm missing the obvious...

Thanks guys,
Chris

**oldpappy** · 02-08-2014, 09:34

I have an older one that was 36"W X 60"L and I cut it in half so I have 2 each 30"W X 36"L pads. So these shorter pads covers shoulders to hips. (I use one pad above 32F and double pad below 32F).
I backpack when it is above 32F (1 pad) - To pack, I fold 1 pad in half and roll it up - with string or shock cord handy to keep it rolled up. 15" wide roll.
This puts a crease in the middle of the pad. If you don't store the pad folded/rolled up the crease isn't bad - I store pads with a loose roll to avoid permanent creasing.
P.S. This is how I use my pad in my HH 48" wide hammock. I also wrap the pad in flannel to absorb condensation (cut up old flannel sheet) - a pad is a vapor barrier and wind block. I'm 5'9" and can curl up on these short pads if needed.

**DuctTape** · 02-08-2014, 09:49

After a while you get used to folding and rolling things in the field. In general, rain shouldn't matter as you will still be under your tarp. That is, assuming you leave the tarp up until everything is packed (and it is the first thing setup at camp). My camp routine is the same for nice weather as it is for inclement. When the weather isn't nice, you want to be able to do your tasks without having to think about having to deal with the weather. This is where the routine comes in.