Decisions, decisions - UQ or Pad?

[Boo-Yah]

I didn't fact check the entire thread but it seems like everyone went right to suggesting down quilts without asking the original poster what his goals are. If lightweight and compact size for distance backpacking are a priority, then I do agree that a down quilt is worth the investment. If the poster is a car camper or a coupla-miler backpacker he can save significant money and be very comfortable with synthetic quilts. I think the OP said he's 250 lbs...so he's probably not counting grams - but he did mention that he's counting dollars. Synthetic quilts are a great value and it seems they often don't get the credit they deserve.

LOL Well at 250 I am counting grams or lbs! My payload is maxed out so I have to save as much as I can. 25lbs is easier to pack than 30lbs....
I am in process of cutting body weight, but it will take awhile to get to my old playing weight. I do not intend to camp without a decent hike involved, of course everything is relative.

Appreciate the advice

[Boo-Yah]

A Down UQ wins hands down and worthy of the investment.
If your short on the cash for now make the pad work/live with it and save your pennies for a UQ or watch the for sale section for a down UQ (just make sure the length is gonna work for your height)
20* quilt is a solid place to start from.

thanks, good advice

[Boo-Yah]

Hey, I found a used (1 time) Hammock Gear - Down 20* UQ and TQ, with pillow (don't know if I need) for real good price considering condition. Feeling pretty good about it, I will be returning my REI pad and sleeping bag. REI is the best, because of return policy!

[bkrgi]

Now that worked out very well.......enjoy that downy goodness...nothing like it

[Jammer817]

Echoing the other statements, UQ all the way for comfort and ease of use, BUT you really cant beat the CCF for the money and the weight.

I never much cared for the inflatables.