The Slim Light Pro Pad System

The Slim Light Pro Pad System is designed for the artist on the go. Its sleek and lightweight design fits easily into a backpack, portfolio or travel case. Its built-in power button controls three levels of brightness, allowing you to choose the right setting for any task. Its flat edge keeps it stable, while its ruler and binder clips help keep art and reference materials in place.

A sateen weave gives this shell fabric a silky-smooth feel, and its top surface is quilted to accentuate that softness. The pocket depth is 15 inches, so it'll fit most mattresses (though you might want to measure yours to be sure). The pad can be laundered at home in cold water, but the company recommends dry cleaning, as machine washing will permanently damage the fiber fill.

This pad is a bit thicker than some of the ultralight options on this list, which can make it uncomfortable for side-sleepers who tend to bottom out when they shift around in their sleep. It also has a wider side rail to help you stay centered on the pad throughout the night. But, it's still a good option for most backpackers who prefer a little extra cushioning.

This knee pad has plenty of protection, which makes it a great choice for trail and all-mountain riders who like to push hard. The pads have a lot of rubber, which should stand up to plenty of abuse, and the padding on the knees is fairly dense and well-hidden.