Updated at: 31-01-2023 - By: Jane

Camping is a fun outdoor activity that allows people to relax while experiencing nature. To get the most out of your adventure, a good night’s sleep in your tent is an absolute must. That’s why it’s a good idea to spend as much as you can on the highest quality air mattress specifically designed for camping.

We think sleep is crucial, so we try to make sure our campers have the same level of comfort they’re used to at home. It’s not uncommon for people who sleep on unpleasant surfaces to experience restless, fragmented sleep.

An air mattress is the best investment you can make if you want to maximize your sleep time. Simply put, these are enormous, inflatable pillows with plenty of room to stretch out on. My nights of rest on a camping air mattress rank among the greatest I’ve ever had when I was away from home. A good night’s sleep on one of the top air mattresses for camping will help you refuel for another day of adventure.

This piece focuses on air mattresses that can be inflated to their full size by use of a pump (either built into the mattress or sold separately). Self-inflating mattresses (SIMs) are often thinner and less comfy than these. A SIM card’s benefit is that you won’t be stuck if you experience pump trouble or fail to bring your pump with you.

Directly placing an air mattress on the ground, unless it was made for such use, can result in significant heat loss in the winter. To keep warm, set up the air mattress inside the tent on a camp bed base.

Picking the best air mattress for camping from the huge variety of options available might be a challenge. If you’re having trouble sleeping and want to explore some of our top recommendations, this compilation is for you.

Best overall air mattress for camping

SoundAsleep Camping Series Air Mattress

SoundAsleep Camping Series Air Mattress

  • Price: $$
  • Type of Mattress: PVC
  • Inches of Mattress Height
  • Battery-operated, external pumps
  • Limitation of Liability to One Year

Reviewers agree that this air mattress successfully fulfills its intended purposes of durability, comfort, and user friendliness. It takes less than three minutes to inflate with a high-powered, rechargeable pump and is designed for use in the great outdoors.

It has a “sure-grip” bottom to help you from slipping and a waterproof flocked top for extra comfort and warmth. This air mattress is portable and comes with a carry bag for convenience. The warranty is only good for one year.

Users have said that they have gotten a lot of mileage out of it both in the wide outdoors and in their own homes. In addition, several reviewers highlight their positive interactions with the company’s support staff.

- $29.95 OFF SoundAsleep Camping Series Air Mattress Bundle - Queen and Twin Size

Keep in mind that the pump requires a full charge to inflate the air mattress, as mentioned by several reviewers, before packing for a long journey.

Pros

  • The supplied external pump features a rechargeable battery and swiftly inflates the air mattress.
  • It is built to last and to provide a pleasant experience while wearing it.
  • The asking price is reasonable.

Cons

  • It’s possible the pump’s battery needs to be fully charged before it can operate.

Sierra Designs Camping Air Bed Mattress

Sierra Designs Camping Air Bed Mattress

  • Price: $$
  • thermoplastic polyurethane foam mattresses (TPU)
  • Mattress elevation is 10.2 inches.
  • Pump: portable, external, battery-powered pump
  • Limitation of Liability to One Year

Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) is a synthetic material that is both weather- and tear-resistant, making it suitable for outdoor use in this lightweight, PVC-free air bed. It includes a battery-operated external pump and, as a nice bonus, a pillow that is built right in.

The air mattress by Sierra Designs has a generous carry bag and a one-year guarantee.

Most reviewers agree that this is a high-quality camping air mattress that will last for many journeys.

The pump in this mattress, according to some reviews, is too slow. In order to make this mattress worthwhile, they suggest investing in a separate pump.

Pros

  • The air mattress doesn’t contain any PVC.
  • For your convenience, it incorporates an external battery-operated pump.
  • The asking price is reasonable.

Cons

  • Reviewers had mixed feelings about the pump’s speed.
  • There are just two bed sizes to choose from: twin and full.

Zooobelives Inflatable Sleeping Pad

Zooobelives Inflatable Sleeping Pad

  • Price: $
  • Polyester and polyvinyl chloride mattresses
  • The standard height for a 4 inch thick mattress
  • Hand-operated, internal pumping system
  • Two-year warranty.

Because of its low profile (just 4 inches), this is more accurately described as a sleeping pad than an air mattress. However, it has received rave reviews from purchasers who like that it is thick enough to cushion their feet from the harsh pavement below.

Even though there is an internal air pump in the mattress, you will still need to pump up the air yourself. As a plus, that makes it easy to transport (it weighs in at little over 3 pounds) and store (it collapses to a mere 4″ when folded) when not in use. You may attach it to another sleeping mat for even more floor area by simply snapping its side panels together.

Pros

  • Air mattresses have a vanishingly small profile.
  • For even more room, you can join multiple pads together.
  • It compresses down nicely for storage.

Cons

  • A hand pump is included.

REI Co-op Kingdom Insulated Air Bed

REI Co-op Kingdom Insulated Air Bed

  • Price: $$$
  • Synthetic mattresses, in case you were wondering.
  • Six-inch-high mattresses.
  • Pump, External Manual
  • REI members receive a one-year warranty, while non-members only get 90 days.

This air mattress is insulated and weatherproof for usage in the great outdoors. A manual air pump with a straightforward, one-way inflation valve prevents air leakage during assembly; it weighs slightly over 5 pounds and is queen-sized. The stuff sack is convenient for packing and storing, and the separate valve makes deflation quick.

Experts are unanimous in their assessment of the mattress’s high standard of comfort and durability. For up to a year after purchase, you can return your mattress to REI for a full refund or exchange if it shows signs of normal wear and tear, inappropriate use, or an accident.

Pros

  • A bed on air is easy to transport and takes up little space.
  • The construction is solid and it will last a long time.
  • Quickly loses its air pressure.

Cons

  • Inflation must be performed manually.
  • The price tag is higher.

EnerPlex Never-Leak Camping Series Queen Camping Airbed

EnerPlex Never-Leak Camping Series Queen Camping Airbed

  • Price: $$
  • Type of Mattress: PVC
  • The standard height for a 9 inch mattress
  • Pump: portable, external, rechargeable
  • Two-year warranty.

No matter where you set up camp, this mattress will provide comfort and support thanks to its welded seams, puncture-resistant PVC, and coil beam design.

This robust mattress can be inflated with the included rechargeable travel pump in only 90 seconds, and it folds down to fit in the accompanying carry case. This mattress weighs more than 12 pounds, so it’s probably best for campers who drive to their destination rather than walk.

- $14.10 OFF EnerPlex Camping Air Mattress with Built in Pump - Twin Blow Up Mattress for Travel & Guests - Portable Bed for Adults and Kids - Grey

According to the reviews, this mattress exceeds expectations in both comfort and value. There is no reason for alarm if you purchase EnerPlex because it has a large 2-year warranty.

Pros

  • The air mattress’s quick-inflating pump means setup is a breeze.
  • The coil-beam design provides a high level of comfort and support.
  • The asking price is reasonable.

Cons

  • Weight-wise, it’s not light.

Active Era Luxury Camping Air Mattress

Active Era Luxury Camping Air Mattress

  • Price: $$
  • Type of Mattress: PVC
  • The standard height for a 9 inch mattress
  • External pump: USB-rechargeable
  • Guaranteed for 12 months

This camping air mattress is just as supportive as a traditional mattress thanks to its wave-beam structure. You can keep warm and secure your sheets or sleeping bag all night long thanks to the flocked top.

The mattress can be inflated in less than two minutes with either the built-in manual pump or the high-powered, USB rechargeable pump. Remember to plug it in before you hit the trail.

- $44.99 OFF Active Era Luxury Camping Air Mattress Twin Single Sleeping Bag for Indoor and Outdoor Use

Responses have been overwhelmingly positive. Its comfort and longevity have won over many fans. The queen size, however, was described by some as being more like a full.

Pros

  • The air mattress’s wave-beam structure provides sturdy cushioning.
  • It has both a built-in manual pump and a rechargeable electric one.
  • The asking price is reasonable.

Cons

  • Several reviews complained that the queen size was actually more like a full.

Coleman Quickbed Airbed

Image of the Coleman Quickbed Airbed

  • Price: $
  • Synthetic mattresses are the most modern and comfortable option.
  • 10 inch high mattress
  • As for the pump, that is not included.
  • Two-year warranty.

The Coleman Quickbed Airbed is a wonderful choice if you’re looking for a simple, low-cost air mattress. It has a luxurious feel and is offered in three different sizes (twin, full, and queen). The interior coil architecture is supportive, and the antimicrobial cover prevents the growth of mold, mildew, fungi, and unpleasant odors.

- $15.40 OFF Coleman QuickBed Single-High Inflatable Air Mattress, Leak-Free AirBed with Plush Top & Included Carry Bag for Indoor/Outdoor use, Twin/Full/Queen Options

Keep in mind that there is neither an internal nor an external pump, so you’ll need to bring your own.

Customers rave about the excellent value they receive.

Pros

  • The price of an air mattress is really reasonable.
  • There are three size options.
  • The antibacterial coating and the supporting structure make this an excellent choice.

Cons

  • There is no pump supplied.

Hiccapop Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed

Image of the hiccapop Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed

  • Price: $$
  • Type of Mattress: PVC
  • The standard 12′′ high mattress
  • Injector: a remote electric external pump
  • Warranty: lifetime

This child-friendly air mattress meets the highest standards of both convenience and safety. The manufacturer claims that it is even safer than what is required by law for youngsters. It inflates in less than 30 seconds with its own external electric pump, and it has bumpers on both ends and sides. It has a weight limit of 310 pounds, so even heavier youngsters can use it.

Reviews claim it’s great for kids on camping vacations, but you’ll need a vehicle plug adaptor to blow it up without access to electricity.

Pros

  • A toddler air mattress is made to prevent accidents.
  • It’s equipped with four-way bumpers.
  • It’s guaranteed for life, so you can buy with confidence.

Cons

  • Unfortunately, the car adaptor is not included.

EnerPlex Air Mattress

Image of the EnerPlex Air Mattress

  • Price: $$
  • Type of Mattress: PVC
  • A 16-inch-high mattress is standard.
  • The Pump is an Integrated Electric Pump
  • Two-year warranty.

This air mattress can be used in a variety of ways due to its double-height design. It’s constructed out of durable PVC, making it suitable for use in the wilderness, as a travel bed, or even at home for overnight guests. Don’t forget to bring the cigarette lighter adapter with you to the campsite so you can plug in the electric pump and get it inflated quickly.

Buyers attest that the air mattress held up well while camping.

Pros

  • The height of this air mattress is double that of a traditional one.
  • The inflation process is swift.
  • An extended length of warranty coverage is included.

Cons

  • A plug-in adapter for a vehicle’s power outlet is not included.

Vango Blissful Custom Comfort Double Airbed

vango blissful camping air mattress

Vango’s Blissful Double is among the most comfortable air mattresses for camping now available in the United Kingdom. Flocked with PVC, the surface is exceptionally plush and conducive to a restful night’s sleep. It’s sturdy and long-lasting, thanks to the three-layer coil design and the high sides.

vango blissful camping air mattress

Thanks to the flocked design of the Blissful, your sleeping bag won’t slip about. It makes the bed feel more expensive than it actually is, and you won’t regret spending the money once you see the high-tech features and durable construction.

Blissful’s Custom Comfort Technology includes three different air pressure settings. Size when inflated is 191 cm (L) x 46 cm (H) x 140 cm (W) (W). Considering that the air mattress only weighs 8 kilograms when deflated, it is very lightweight for a double bed and can be easily transported. The bed’s folded dimensions are 35.5 centimeters by 53.5 centimeters by 17.5 centimeters.

The Blissful’s length of 191cm, or around 6 feet 3 inches, is its sole real drawback. Anyone taller than average will have to sleep on the edge of the bed (as I do) or at an angle. We’re not going to perish because of this, therefore we can overlook it.

We found that the Vango Blissful was the most comfortable camping air mattress available.

Pros

  • Shockingly cozy
  • Contains a built-in air pump that recharges itself automatically
  • Simple to set up, take down, and store

Cons

  • Doesn’t work with batteries; only AC power will do.

Coleman Extra Durable Double Airbed

Coleman Airbed Extra Durable Double

Because of its near-unparalleled resistance to punctures and unintentional deflation, we have chosen the Coleman Extra Durable Double Airbed as one of the best air mattresses for camping. This makes it ideal for use in rugged camping environments, or anywhere you’d like the assurance that your water supply won’t run dry.

First off, let’s address the biggest drawback: there isn’t a built-in pump. For this reason, you’ll also need to invest in a pump, such as the Coleman 12V Quickpump, which can inflate the air mattress in a matter of seconds.

Coleman Airbed Extra Durable Double tent

Thanks to its PVC-covered top and sturdy coil structure, the airbed has a uniform sleeping surface, so you won’t have to worry about falling off and finding yourself or your loved ones on the floor. The 40 air coils inside the mattress do a terrific job of supporting your body and making you feel at ease.

Thanks to the use of puncture-resistant material, the Coleman Extra Durable Double Air Mattress has earned our unanimous recommendation. We have no trouble believing the claim that it is 47% more durable than regular air mattresses. An excellent camping air mattress, well worth your time and consideration.

- $47.01 OFF Coleman QuickBed Elite Extra-High Airbed with Built-In Pump, Leak-Free Airbed with Soft Plush Top and Carry Bag, Queen and Twin Options Available

Pros

  • The possibility of punctures has been eliminated
  • Easily inflated and deflated
  • Sizeable enough for even the tallest of humans
  • The building is perched high above the ground.

Cons

  • Doesn’t have a pump built in

Intex Dura-Beam Standard Single-High Airbed Series

Intex Dura-Beam Comfort Plush

One of the greatest camping air mattresses for the money is the Intex Dura-Beam Comfort Plush. Fiber-Tech Technology, which employs exceptionally hard polyester fibers, provides a solid and comfy bed at a low price, allowing you to sleep soundly and wake up feeling refreshed.

Intex Dura-Beam Comfort Plush pump

The top of the Intex mattress is padded with plush flocking to make sleeping more pleasant, while a layer of PVC protects the bed’s structure and keeps it from sagging. It’s one of the largest mattresses we looked at, with inflated dimensions of 203cm by 152cm by 56cm. You can’t just throw this in your backpack and carry it to the campground; at 10.1 kg, you’ll need a vehicle.

Pros

  • A Pump That Is Part of the System
  • Affordable
  • Rapidly expands and contracts
  • Durable

Cons

  • Plugging the air valve is a challenge.

Active Era Luxury Air Mattress

Active Era Luxury Double Air Bed

The Active Era Luxury Air Mattress is a must-have for any collection of top-tier camping air mattresses. This air mattress is built to last; it’s manufactured from a high-quality multi-layered material that’s both waterproof and puncture-resistant (15 gauge). The air mattress has a built-in electric pump that allows for fast inflation to the desired hardness (usually under 90 seconds) and deflation (usually under 10 seconds).

Active Era Luxury Double Air Bed pump

After a day of sight-seeing, you’ll be glad you brought along the built-in elevated pillow to rest your weary head and neck on. While we didn’t mind the height of the provided pillow, we would have appreciated a flatter mattress so that we could bring our own.

The 21 organized air coils within the mattress provide a nice, sturdy, and secure sleeping position regardless of where you choose to lay on the mattress. We found this air mattress to be one of the most comfortable for outdoor use.

The Active Era Luxury Air Bed is a fantastic product that we wholeheartedly endorse.

- $44.99 OFF Active Era Luxury Camping Air Mattress Twin Single Sleeping Bag for Indoor and Outdoor Use

Pros

  • Easily inflated and deflated
  • Adjustable temperature controls by hand
  • has sturdy sides that keep it from sliding off
  • There’s a pillow inside of it.
  • Includes a tool set for making repairs

Cons

  • Irrelevantly low
  • air leaks

Different types of camping air mattresses

There is a wide variety of options to choose from, despite the fact that most camping air mattresses are made to be compact and light. Here are some things to keep in mind while you shop.

  • Material. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a durable plastic, is commonly used in the production of air mattresses. Those constructed with thermoplastic polyurethane are both long-lasting and kind to the environment (TPU).
  • The optimal height and softness of a mattress. Depending on your needs, you can find either low or high profile camping air mattresses. One option is to have a flocked top for added warmth and comfort, while the other is to have a gripping texture on the bottom to prevent slippage.
  • Method of inflation. Pumps can be incorporated into the mattress or purchased separately, and they can be either manual or rechargeable. Consider looking into electric pumps if you’ll be in close proximity to a car and have access to electricity. Camping air mattresses that must be inflated the old fashioned way, with your lungs, are an option for campers in isolated areas who like to travel light.

How to choose the best air mattress for camping

The type of camping you intend to perform is a major factor in determining which outdoor air mattress is best for you. Do you plan on sleeping in a tent, your car, the back of a truck, or the great outdoors? To select the appropriate size of air mattress, this guide is provided.

Is there a problem with availability? However, if your vehicle can park directly next to your campsite, you won’t have to worry as much about the dimensions and weight of your rolled-up air mattress. A lightweight and compressible air mattress may be a need if you have to hike several miles to your campsite. In addition, a manual or battery-operated pump will be required.

Do not forget about the weather. No amount of air pumping into an air mattress can make it toasty. In its place, they’ll approach the surrounding temperature. Keep in mind that you might like a layer of warmth between you and your air mattress if you’ll be camping when the temperature drops at night.

While searching for the perfect camping air mattress, keep these things in mind.

Comfort

After a long day of exploring, you’ll want a soft place to rest your weary body. Air coils within help to keep airbeds flat and provide comfort and support, and the plush flocking adds coziness and a pleasant feel.

Mattress type

The best air mattress for your needs can vary from trip to trip and camping style to style. Think on how high you want your mattress to be, if you want an inflatable one, and how portable it will be.

Mattress size

Your air mattress should be selected based on the number of people who will be using it and the amount of space available in your tent or sleeping area.

Ultimate Guide To The Best Camping Mattress Australia [2022] - Tasmania Explorer

Mattress weight and packed size

Again, the particulars of your camping vacation will influence this factor. When collapsing your air mattress for transport, be mindful of its size and weight. A heavy mattress can be a hassle on a hiking trip, but it’s not much of an issue if you’re driving to your campsite.

Materials

For comfort and warmth, the tops of air mattresses are often composed of textiles as well as the usual PVC or TPU. On a scale from 1 to 5, R-value quantifies how much warmth an item provides, and while some air mattresses feature this rating, it is more reliably applied to insulated sleeping pads. Look at the maximum load capacity as an additional durability indicator.

Ease of use

A variety of pumps, from the traditional foot pump to battery-operated hand pumps, are available for the inflation process. Think about how much time and money convenience will save you on your camping trip.

Pumps that run on batteries have the advantage of always being usable, as long as you remember to bring more batteries, but they also add weight to your pack.

Bedding for a camping air mattress

One approach is to simply place a sleeping bag over the air mattress. When temps drop, it’s a good idea to have something between you and the air mattress. A fitted sheet is a nice choice.

Once again, the type of travel you’re doing will determine what kind of bedding you can bring along, such as pillows and blankets. Remember that the air mattress’ primary function is to give a soft place to sleep, and not as a heat source.

Caring for your camping air mattress

Though air mattresses don’t necessarily require much upkeep, there are several measures you should take to ensure their longevity. Before setting up your tent and blowing up your air mattress, be sure there aren’t any sharp stones on the ground. Overinflation is another issue you need to watch out for.

If you want your air mattress to last, clean it thoroughly before storing it. Fold it neatly before placing it in its bag. Remove the battery(s) from the pump if it requires them before putting it away.

FAQs

How do I insulate an air mattress for camping?

Insulating an air mattress for camping requires covering both the bottom and the top with a layer of insulation. Keep it from becoming cold from the ground by placing it on a foam mat. If you put a blanket or fitted sheet over your air mattress, the air within will stay warmer, even if the room temperature drops. You should have a comfortable night’s sleep in a sleeping bag atop this structure.

How do you clean an air mattress used for camping?

You may remove dirt and dust from camping air mattresses by using a broom or a handheld vacuum. A moist rag will enough in most situations. Let the air mattress dry completely before putting it away.

Do you need a pump for a camping air mattress?

This is debatable. Depending on the model, you can find camping air mattresses with built-in pumps, or you can buy a separate pump that operates on batteries or electricity. There are also vehicles that use hand-operated pumps. However, not all of them include a pump, so you may need to purchase one separately. Check the air mattress’s inflation process one last time before you leave out on your camping vacation to ensure that you’ll have a comfortable night’s sleep.

Why doesn’t my air mattress stay inflated for long?

When an air mattress loses its shape and doesn’t stay inflated for long, it’s likely that it’s been damaged. Be sure there are no leaks in your mattress and have it mended if there are. If the air valve is unsecured, air might escape and cause the balloon to deflate. Then you should make sure the air valve is properly locked and fill your airbed.

How is an air mattress deflated?

Just by opening the air valve, you may let the air out of your bed and make it flat again. Alternatively, you might use a pump that removes all the air from the mattress.

How is an air mattress repaired?

Locating the source of the leak is the first order of business. Find the holes, then go out and get a patch to fix them. If you don’t have a patch handy, a roll of duct tape will do in a pinch.

After how long should an airbed be filled up?

Your air mattress will only be as firm as you make it. All hours of the day and night are fair game for blowing it up. It may be refilled if it loses air during use.

Can an air mattress be used as a permanent bed at home?

It is true that air mattresses have a longer lifespan if they are only used seldom. PVC, which is used to create it, stretches easily, thus it wears out quickly. As a result, while it can serve as a permanent bed in the house, a standard bed will provide better durability over the long run.

Takeaway

Enjoying the great outdoors through camping is a rewarding experience. However, it might all go to pot if you don’t get enough sleep. One of the less desirable aspects of camping is having to sleep on the ground and waking up with aches and pains all over your body. If you want to be refreshed and ready for more outdoor fun, invest in the best air mattress for camping.

You should always get a decent night’s sleep, no matter where you are. Even if money is tight, you may still go camping in comfort by choosing from a number of different types of air mattresses.

Get out of town, break free of your routine, and relax by going on an adventure. Invest in a high-quality air mattress for camping while you’re at it; otherwise, you might find yourself longing for your own bed and having to cut your camping trip short.

Have fun out there camping.

Rate this post