Self-inflating mats have always been a camping staple, but the Vango Shangri-La Lux range takes the concept to a new level. The headline feature? A built-in USB-rechargeable pump that inflates and deflates the mat in around one minute — no manual pumping, no wrestling with valves, no waiting around.
At Newquay Camping Shop, we've been recommending the Shangri-La range to Cornwall and South West campers for years. The Lux models are the best yet. Here's our honest breakdown of all four models and who each one is for.
What Makes the Shangri-La Lux Different?
Built-In USB-Rechargeable Pump
This is the standout feature of the entire Lux range. Every model includes Vango's integrated USB-rechargeable pump, which inflates and deflates the mat in around one minute. Charge it before you leave home, and you won't need to think about it again for the weekend. No separate pump to pack, no manual effort, no fuss.
For families arriving at a Cornish campsite after a long drive, or couples setting up in the dark after a late arrival, this makes a genuine difference to the experience.
Dreamlock Construction
All Lux models use Vango's Dreamlock foam-cutting design, which reduces pack size by 20% compared to the previous Shangri-La generation — without any compromise on comfort or support. The result is a mat that packs significantly smaller than its depth suggests.
R Value 9.1
Every Lux model carries an R Value of 9.1 — an excellent thermal resistance rating that insulates you effectively from cold, damp ground. This makes the Lux range suitable for spring, summer, and autumn camping across Cornwall and the South West, where ground temperatures can drop even on warm evenings.
Vertical Wall Construction
Like all Shangri-La mats, the Lux range uses 3D vertical wall construction. This means the entire top surface is flat and usable — no sloping edges, no rolling off in the night. Combined with the super-soft elastic fabric, it genuinely feels like sleeping on a proper mattress.
The Four Models Compared
1. Vango Shangri-La Lux 12 Grande — £155
The wide-single option in the Lux range. At 76 cm wide and 12 cm deep, it's ideal for solo campers who want maximum comfort without sharing. The Grande width gives you noticeably more room than a standard single, and at 3.6 kg it's the lightest model in the range.
- Size: Grande (wide single) — 200 × 76 cm
- Depth: 12 cm
- Weight: 3.6 kg
- R Value: 9.1
- Best for: solo campers, festival-goers, solo tourers in campervans
View the Shangri-La Lux 12 Grande →
2. Vango Shangri-La Lux 12 Double — £234
The double version of the Lux 12, offering a seamless 132 cm wide sleep surface for couples. No gap in the middle, no pushing two singles together — just a continuous, comfortable double bed in your tent. At 5.8 kg it's manageable for car camping, and the Dreamlock construction keeps the pack size reasonable at 72 × 32 × 32 cm.
- Size: Double — 200 × 132 cm
- Depth: 12 cm
- Weight: 5.8 kg
- R Value: 9.1
- Best for: couples, family camping, campervan awnings
View the Shangri-La Lux 12 Double →
3. Vango Shangri-La II 16 Grande — £199
Step up to 16 cm of foam for solo campers who want the absolute best in ground insulation and cushioning. The extra 4 cm over the Lux 12 Grande makes a noticeable difference for side sleepers and anyone with back or joint issues. The non-slip base keeps it firmly in place on tent floors throughout the night.
- Size: Grande (wide single) — 200 × 76 cm
- Depth: 16 cm
- Base: Non-slip
- Best for: solo campers with back issues, side sleepers, those who want maximum comfort
View the Shangri-La II 16 Grande →
4. Vango Shangri-La Lux 16 Double — £259
The flagship of the range. Sixteen centimetres of premium foam across a 132 cm wide double surface — the closest you'll get to sleeping in a proper bed on a campsite. For couples who camp regularly across Cornwall and the South West and want to wake up genuinely rested, this is the mat to buy.
- Size: Double — 200 × 132 cm
- Depth: 16 cm
- Best for: couples who prioritise sleep quality above all else, regular campers, those with back issues
View the Shangri-La Lux 16 Double →
Which Shangri-La Lux Is Right for You?
- Solo camper, value-conscious — Lux 12 Grande (£155)
- Solo camper, maximum comfort — Shangri-La II 16 Grande (£199)
- Couple, great comfort — Lux 12 Double (£234)
- Couple, absolute best — Lux 16 Double (£259)
Tips for Using Your Shangri-La Lux in Cornwall
- Charge the pump before you leave — a full charge handles multiple inflation and deflation cycles over a weekend
- Pair with a tent carpet — adds extra warmth and comfort underfoot. Browse our tent carpets.
- Use with a quality sleeping bag — even with an R Value of 9.1, Cornish nights can be cool. Browse our sleeping bags.
- Store partially inflated at home — this helps the foam maintain its shape and extends the life of the mat
- Clean with a damp cloth — avoid harsh detergents on the elastic fabric surface
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the built-in pump battery last?
A full charge handles multiple inflation and deflation cycles. Charge via USB before your trip and it will comfortably cover a weekend of camping without needing a recharge.
Can I still inflate it manually if the pump runs out?
Yes — the Cyclone valve allows manual inflation and deflation as a backup, so you're never left without options.
What is Dreamlock construction?
Dreamlock is Vango's innovative foam-cutting design that reduces pack size by 20% vs the previous Shangri-La generation, without compromising comfort or support.
Is the Lux range suitable for Cornwall camping?
Absolutely — the R Value of 9.1 provides excellent ground insulation for Cornish campsites in spring, summer, and autumn. The built-in pump is particularly useful when arriving at sites like Trevella or Trevedra Farm after a long drive.
What's the difference between the 12 cm and 16 cm models?
The 16 cm models are 4 cm thicker, providing more cushioning and ground insulation. They're heavier and pack slightly larger, but deliver noticeably more comfort — particularly for side sleepers and those with back issues.
Can I see the Shangri-La Lux range in your Newquay showroom?
Yes — visit our Newquay showroom to see the range in person. Our team is happy to help you choose the right model for your needs.
Browse the Full Range
- Shangri-La Lux 12 Grande — £155
- Shangri-La Lux 12 Double — £234
- Shangri-La II 16 Grande — £199
- Shangri-La Lux 16 Double — £259
Or browse our full sleeping mats collection for the complete range.
