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GI Foam Sleeping Mat Uses

Foam sleeping mats are issued to G.I.s in the United States military forces to sleep on when they are camped out while on a mission or in battle, so that they can have padding in the most rugged environments. These foam sleeping mats can also serve a variety of other purposes for people who are not in the military, and they are available at outdoor and recreation stores.
  1. Under Sleeping Bags

    • Roll one of these mats out on the ground or in your tent where you want to place your sleeping bag wherever you are camping. This will provide added support and cushioning, helping you be more comfortable, get a better night's sleep and be more rested for the next day of activities. These mats are relatively light to carry with you, so it won't be difficult to transport them on your backpack.

    Yoga Mat

    • If you practice yoga on a regular basis, the foam sleeping mat can double as a yoga mat. They are light, easy to roll up and made of the same material as designated yoga mats. These mats are also washable, so it won't matter if you sweat profusely on them. You can just spray them off with a hose and they will dry in the sun if you leave them outside.

    Blankets

    • The G.I. foam sleeping mats are very good at insulating heat, so they can double as a blanket. This mat is usually about 6 feet long and 2 feet wide, which is a small blanket but still serviceable. If you carry two of these foam sleeping mats with you on camping trips, you can sandwich yourself between the pads at night, providing both cushioning and warmth.