5 Best Camping Air Mattresses Reviews and Buying Guide 2024
There are many choices when it comes to camping air mattresses. The best ones for backpacking and camping will be easy to inflate, comfortable, and durable. We’ve researched the top brands on the market to help you find one that is perfect for your needs.
When it comes to finding the best sleeping pad for camping, there are many factors to consider. The two main things you want to look at are how comfortable it is and how easy it is to inflate. Comfort is important because you don’t want a rough and bumpy sleeping surface or one that’s too hard. You also want a pad that can be inflated quickly and easily. A good air mattress should have an inflation valve where tapping the valve will allow air to flow in, allowing for quick inflation.
Here are a list of some of the best, most popular camping mattress reviews on Amazon:
Table of Contents
Types of camping air mattresses
Inflatable Air Mattresses: These are the most common type of mattresses for camping. They inflate quickly and are very comfortable. They come with high-quality materials that make them durable and easy to clean.
Non-inflatable Air Mattresses: It’s best to avoid this type of mattress if you’re backpacking because it will take a long time to inflate. This type of mattress is usually for car camping and camping at home, but they still have some benefits like being cheaper and easier to store.
Foam Pads: Sometimes foam pads are used as a temporary mattress cover or an emergency backup in case your air mattress gets punctured or leaks. Foam pads can also help save money if you don’t want to buy a high-quality air mattress. This is what makes them great for car camping and long hiking trips where the weight of your backpack matters.
Sleeping pad thickness
The standard size for camping sleeping pads is 20 inches wide and 72 inches long, but there are other sites out there as well, depending on what’s going to work best for you. Thicker sleeping pads are usually more comfortable because they have more padding, but for backpacking and camping, thicker isn’t always better. It depends on your own personal comfort level as well as how much weight the pad adds to your backpack.
. Backpacking or car camping?
If you’re planning on camping in the backcountry, then it’s best to get an inflatable air mattress. Non-inflatable air mattresses aren’t good for backpacking because they can be very bulky and take a long time to blow up. However, if you have a car or truck to carry them, they will work great
3. Buying guide for the best camping mattress
Inflatable Air Mattresses: These are the most common type of mattresses for camping. They inflate quickly and are very comfortable. They come with high-quality materials that make them durable and easy to clean.
Non-inflatable Air Mattresses: It’s best to avoid this type of mattress if you’re backpacking because it will take a long time to inflate. This type of mattress is usually for car camping and camping at home, but they still have some benefits like being cheaper and easier to store.
Foam Pads: Sometimes foam pads are used as a temporary mattress cover or an emergency backup in case your air mattress gets punctured or leaks. Foam pads can also help save money if you don’t want to buy a high-quality air mattress. This is what makes them great for car camping and long hiking trips where the weight of your backpack matters.
#4: Size, weight, and packed size
Size: The standard size for camping sleeping pads is 20 inches wide and 72 inches long, but there are other sites out there as well, depending on what’s going to work best for you. Thicker sleeping pads are usually more comfortable because they have more padding, but for backpacking and camping, thicker isn’t always better. It depends on your own personal comfort level as well as how much weight the pad adds to your backpack
Weight: The average air mattress for camping weighs about 2-3 pounds. The average weight for the best air mattress is 2.8 pounds. However, there are also inflatable mattresses out there that weigh much less than this and have a packed size of only 4×6 inches
Packed Size: Packed size sometimes matters more to backpackers because it depends on how much space you have in your backpack. The smaller and lighter the weight of an air mattress, the less added weight it will give to your bag overall.
5: Comfort level and comfort features
Comfort Level on Air Mattress: Everyone has a different idea of what comfortable sleep feels like. Some people like softer mattresses while others prefer something a little firmer. Sharp rocks or twigs might be unavoidable in some spots where you decide to camp, and the last thing you want is for them to poke through your mattress. Getting a thicker inflatable camping mattress can help prevent this from happening
Comfort Features: It’s nice to have extra features on your air mattress that make sleeping more comfortable. Some air mattresses have a soft, flocked top cover on them, or some feature built-in pump systems that make inflating the mattress quick and easy.
6: Durability & Warranty Information
Durability: The best air mattress should be made with quality materials that will last for many years and seasons with proper maintenance. The materials should also be able to withstand the wear and tear of regular camping use. You need to spend money on an air mattress that will last because it can be very difficult to fix a puncture in an inflatable air mattress
Warranty: Most air mattresses come with a limited warranty, but it’s always best to check their website to see if the company will cover you with any issues that might arise.
7: Airflow and temperature regulation
Air Flow: Do you like a cooler or warmer sleeping environment? Maybe you don’t care, but it’s nice to have a choice when figuring out what kind of air mattress you want. If you have a good cover on your mattress and it has some good insulation, you might not need an airflow system. However, many companies make inflatable sleeping pads with built-in fans that can keep you cool while you sleep
Temperature Regulation: Temperature regulation is one of the biggest benefits of getting a self-inflating mattress for camping, especially if you like to sleep on the colder side. Many self-inflating mattresses have an R-value of 4 or higher so they can keep you nice and warm.
8: Durability and Repairs [REPAIRS]
If your air mattress starts leaking, it will deflate fairly quickly. While a leak isn’t permanent damage, it is a problem that you will have to fix before your next trip. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to repair small holes on an air mattress because they are usually made from vinyl. The inflating valve might also develop rust or wear over time which can affect the functionality of the mattress and make repairs necessary for you to get back out in the field
9. Pros and cons of different types of camping air mattresses
Air mattresses for camping come in three different types: conventional air mattresses, cots, and inflatable mattresses. What type of camping air mattress you should buy depends on what you need it for.
A conventional camping air mattress provides a little more height than an inflatable mattress but is heavier to carry around. They also provide some insulation from the ground which can make them more comfortable and give an added level of warmth.
Cots are great if you like the height of a bed but don’t want to bring the weight with you on your backpacking trip because they’re very lightweight and take up less space in your bag or tent. They are less expensive than an inflatable mattress but require more space to set up.
Cots are an excellent choice for hunting and fishing trips where you might be sleeping on the ground. They also work well for overnight RV camping especially if you’re looking to add a little more comfort.
A camping air mattress is portable and lightweight but offers less comfort than cots or regular beds. The tradeoff for this is they take up much less space when packed up which can be very useful if you’re hiking or backpacking.
10: Durability & Warranty Information [DURABILTY]
Durability: The best air mattress should be made with quality materials that will last for many years and seasons with proper maintenance. The materials should also be able to withstand the wear and tear of regular camping use. You need to spend money on an air mattress that will last because it can be very difficult to fix a puncture in an inflatable air mattress
Warranty: Most air mattresses come with a limited warranty, but it’s always best to check their website to see if the company will cover you with any issues that might arise.
11: Other miscellaneous features to consider [OTHER]
Air Pump: Pumping your air mattress when you first buy it can be a huge pain, but many companies have made this task easier by making pumps available for purchase with the mattress or including one in the packaging. If you already own an air pump, you might not need to purchase a new one with your mattress.
Tethers: Tethers are another less common but useful feature that can help keep your bed from shifting around in the middle of the night. They attach via hooks and can weigh down an airbed so they don’t shift as easily during rough weather or when you move around a lot at night.
If you’re the kind of camper that likes to get up and walk around a lot in the middle of the night, tethers can help keep your mattress from moving around as much while you sleep. This is especially useful if there are strong winds or it rains during your trip which can create more movement inside your tent.
Air Pump Pouches: Even if you have an air mattress with a built-in pump, it’s always nice to have a backup because the battery on these pumps isn’t always reliable or lasts very long. Some companies sell air pump pouches that will hold any brand of hand pump so you don’t have to worry about your battery dying during the night.
Foam Mattress Vs Inflatable Mattress [Foam VS inflatable]
You should buy a foam mattress if you are putting it inside a tent or on an uneven surface such as rock or soil where there is not much moisture. It can be very uncomfortable to sleep on an air mattress when there are rocks underneath you or it is jutting out from the side of a tent because your body sinks into the gaps.
A foam mattress will provide better support and comfort but increases in weight, making them less suitable for backpacking camping trips. Foam mattresses do not leak at all so they are much more durable than air mattresses.
Air Mattress Vs Cot [AIR VS COT]
A camping cot will blow up much faster than an air mattress so it’s a good option if you’re someone who likes to get everything set up quickly before it gets dark. It takes less effort, is more comfortable, and is much less noisy than an air mattress.
A cot is also great because you don’t need to worry about a leak or puncture as they are not inflatable. The disadvantage of cots is that they take up much more space when packed up and usually cost more money, so if you’re looking for something lightweight then going with an air mattress is a better option.
Cots are also great for car camping because they are usually much more durable and can withstand adverse weather conditions such as extreme heat, rain, or snow without leaking.
Things to Look For when Buying an Air Mattress [CHECKLIST]
Supportive Fabrics: The fabric of your air mattress is very important because you want to ensure it will be comfortable and support your body all night long. Most companies make their mattresses out of PVC, which is cheap and easy to make but isn’t as durable as other materials such as nylon or polyester.
If the fabric stretches too much or doesn’t hold its shape well then this can cause your bed to sag which can get very uncomfortable over time.
If you have an airbed that is sagging or deflating, you will need to add more air frequently throughout the night and it will be difficult to sleep on as your body sinks into the gaps.
Mattress Thickness: Mattress thickness is important if you prefer to sleep on your side or if you have back problems. Inflatable mattresses can range from 1″ – 8″ depending on the brand and model so there are lots of options to pick from.
If you notice in some customer reviews that people think a mattress is too thin then be sure to go with a thicker option instead because you will be able to feel the difference.
For people who like to sleep on their backs, thinner mattresses are a better option because it allows your spine to align itself without sinking too much into the mattress. The downside of thicker inflatable mattresses is that they take longer to inflate so if you plan on using a hand pump then a thinner mattress may be a better option.
5. Reviews on the top 5 best camping air mattresses in 2021
1.Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Xlite Ultralight Backpacking Air Mattress
The NeoAir Xlite Ultralight Backpacking mattress is a tried and true favorite for long-distance hikers who want the most minimal and lightweight option. It’s also a great choice for anyone looking to downsize on weight, without giving up comfort from home. The quality materials are made in the USA with an innovative design that provides the durability you can trust.
Therm-a-Rest patented SpaceFrame Construction cradles your body with unparalleled support while eliminating cold spots—providing hours of comfortable sleep no matter where you’re headed. Shop now at Amazon
Features Benefits And Key Description
- – The Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Xlite Ultralight Backpacking mattress is a tried and true favorite for long-distance hikers.
- – It’s also a great choice for anyone looking to downsize on weight, without giving up comfort from home.
- – Provides hours of comfortable sleep no matter where you’re headed.
- – Good for sleepers of all sizes and shapes.
- – The unique shape and design fit into tight spaces.
- – Affordable replacement parts that are easy to find.
Specifications:
Brand: Therm-a-rest
Type: Pump, Self Inflating mattress with integrated pump, Self-inflating mattress with a pump integrated, Pump Included
Style: Self-inflating mattress with integrated pump, Inflatable mattresses with pump, Pump Included
Heading: Aromatic Cedar Wood Bedding, Bamboo fiber filling, Ceramic Heater, Crib Bedding Set,
Dorm Mattress Pad, Electric Blanket in a Bag, Fitted Sheet, Foam Mattress topper, Futon Beds with Mattress Included,
Pros & Cons
Pros
- -The Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Xlite Ultralight Backpacking mattress is a tried and true favorite for long-distance hikers.
- -It’s also a great choice for anyone looking to downsize on weight, without giving up comfort from home.
- -Provides hours of comfortable sleep no matter where you’re headed.
- -Good for sleepers of all sizes and shapes.
- -The unique shape and design fit into tight spaces.
- -Affordable replacement parts that are easy to find.
Cons:
- – The mattress can be punctured easily by sharp objects.
- -The valve is small and leaking air can be an issue in long term.
Our thoughts:
If you are a camper who loves to hike, this mattress will be worth your money. It’s comfortable and lightweight for you. You’ll enjoy the comfort it offers as well as the warmth of the sleeping pad below you during all your adventures, inside the tent or in a campground.
-The unique shape and design fit into tight spaces.
2 Etekcity Upgraded Camping Air Mattress, Queen Twin Airbed Height 9″, Inflatable Bed Blow Up Mattress Raised Airbed with Rechargeable Pump, 2-Year Warranty, Storage Bag
The Etekcity camping air mattress is perfect for use on any outdoor adventure. It comfortably sleeps up to two people and has an internal coil system that ensures there are no permanent bends in the mattress when it’s deflated. The 7-inch height allows you a good night’s sleep without feeling like your head or feet might drop off of the sleeping surface. This inflatable bed is raised to 19 inches from ground level, providing additional comfort while lying down or sitting cross-legged next to your tent mate.
As one of the cheapest mattresses for camping available today, this blow-up mattress will provide you with plenty of good night’s sleep as long as you don’t need extra lumbar support like you would get from an air bed with a wooden frame.
The Etekcity camping mattress comes included with a high-quality battery-operated pump that quickly inflates the mattress for you in less than 3 minutes. It uses 4 D cell batteries which are very common and can be purchased conveniently in any store near you. The pump also deflates the mattress when you’re ready to pack up and go home, making it very convenient for any spontaneous Overnight trip.
Utilizing a special mixing valve to regulate air pressure, you never have to worry about being uncomfortable on this mattress. You can easily set it where you want and just leave it there until departure time.
Features Benefits And Key Description
Standard benefits:
- – Provides a comfortable night’s sleep.
- – Inflates in less than 3 minutes with the included pump.
- – Keeps you warm and cozy on chilly nights.
- – Gives you a restful sleep after an exhausting day of hiking or exploring nature.
Key Features
- Comfortable elevated bed for your next camping trip.
- With a height of 7 inches, you never have to worry about your head or toes falling off the edge while you sleep.
- The Etekcity camping air mattress comes with a built-in pump, making it very easy to use.
- It can be quickly and easily inflated in less than 3 minutes by plugging in the battery-operated pump and pressing the power button. As soon as
Pros & Cons
Pros
+ The battery-operated pump takes out the need to use a foot pump, which can be exhausting and may not be practical for those with mobility problems.
Cons
– Air mattresses that are not high enough off of the ground when inflated will make it difficult to get off the mattress while in bed or to sit comfortably on the edge of it.
Conclusion
Sleeping on an air mattress is a great way to get comfortable during your next camping trip. You’ll never have to worry about feeling like you’re falling off the edge of the bed or sitting uncomfortably close to someone else because this blow-up mattress has sufficient height and offers plenty of room for two people. With its battery-operated pump, it’s easy to inflate in less than 3 minutes! It also deflates easily when it’s time for departure so packing up doesn’t take long at all. If you want something durable, convenient, and affordable then consider investing in one today!
3 Lightspeed Outdoors PVC-Free Warmth Series Self Inflating Insulated Sleep Camp Foam Pad
The Lightspeed Vinyl-Free Warmth Series Self Inflating Insulated Sleep Camp Foam Pad is made of 7.5-gauge polyester fabric, which provides effective insulation and comfortable sleep unlike the PVC model with its potential to emit chlorinated hydrocarbons gas while in use. The foam pad offers a temperature range of 15 degrees Fahrenheit (-10 Celsius) to 40 degrees Fahrenheit (4.5 Celsius), so you can both battle frostbite or keep cool with ease at your next outdoor event!
The Coldest pads on the market – Remember when your breath would freeze on cold PVC foams? Lightspeed zipperless inflates easily with those metal poles and is super durable due to being unbreakable high-density closed-cell polyurethane foam.
Key Description, Features The Benefit
- – The Lightspeed Vinyl-Free Warmth Series Self Inflating Insulated Sleep Camp Foam Pad is made of 7.5-gauge polyester fabric, which provides effective insulation and comfortable sleep unlike the PVC model with its potential to emit chlorinated hydrocarbons gas while in use.
- – The Coldest pads on the market – Remember when your breath would freeze on cold PVC foams? Lightspeed zipperless inflates easily with those metal poles and is super durable due to being unbreakable high-density closed-cell polyurethane foam.
Features benefit:
– Stay warm in freezing temperatures without worry about toxic fumes from PVC models
– Foam is unbreakable, unlike PVC models that might break after rough use
– Lightweight and easy to pack for camping trips or hiking adventures
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- – The Lightspeed Vinyl-Free Warmth Series Self Inflating Insulated Sleep Camp Foam Pad is made of 7.5-gauge polyester fabric, which provides effective insulation and comfortable sleep unlike the PVC model with its potential to emit chlorinated hydrocarbons gas while in use.
- – The Coldest pads on the market – Remember when your breath would freeze on cold PVC foams? Lightspeed zipperless inflates easily with those metal poles and is super durable due to being unbreakable high-density closed-cell polyurethane foam.
Cons:
– This product does not come with a carrying bag for easy transportation
– The Lightspeed Vinyl-Free Warmth Series Self Inflating Insulated Sleep Camp Foam Pad is a bit heavy but can be easily transported by car, train or plane because of its ability to fold into a compact size.
Conclusion
The Lightspeed Vinyl-Free Warmth Series Self Inflating Insulated Sleep Camp Foam Pad is a great option for those looking to stay warm on cold nights without the worry of toxic fumes from PVC models. The foam pad offers a temperature range of 15 degrees Fahrenheit (-10 Celsius) to 40 degrees Fahrenheit (4.5 Celsius), so you can both battle frostbite or keep cool with ease at your next outdoor event! Plus, it’s unbreakable and easy to pack up in its lightweight carrying bag for camping trips or hiking adventures.
4 Therm-a-Rest MondoKing 3D Self-Inflating Foam Camping Mattress
The Therm-a-Rest MondoKing 3D Self-Inflating Foam Camping Mattress is designed with comfort and convenience in mind. Instead of bringing a pump, the Therm-a-Rest foam camping mattress self assembles at home or on-site. It ensures ultimate livability by coming complete with its own three-dimensional suspension system, including thicker walls that offer exceptional insulation qualities for enhanced relaxation and maximum night’s sleep. Lace-up design accommodation clips help to secure sheets when desired as well as provide easy bedding customization when preferred. Our Mondo King comes dry so you can use it immediately out of the box without waiting time!
Key description, Features The Benefit
- – Self-assembles at home or on-site.
- – Guarantees ultimate livability with thicker walls that offer exceptional insulation qualities for enhanced relaxation and maximum night’s sleep.
- – Lace-up design accommodation clips help to secure sheets when desired as well as provide easy bedding customization when preferred.
- – Comes dry so you can use it immediately out of the box without waiting time!
- -This is a foam camping mattress.
- -It is self-assembling and comes in a flat box.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- – Is easy to assemble and wrap up.
- – Provides a good night’s sleep.
- – Lace-up design accommodation clips help to secure sheets when desired as well as provide easy bedding customization when preferred.
Cons:
- – Need to find the right size for your bed.
Conclusion
The best air mattresses for camping are easy to inflate and comfortable. The Therm-a-Rest MondoKing 3D Self-Inflating Foam Camping Mattress is designed with comfort and convenience in mind. Instead of bringing a pump, the Therm-a-Rest foam camping mattress self assembles at home or on-site. It ensures ultimate livability by coming complete with its own three-dimensional suspension system, including thicker walls that offer exceptional insulation qualities for enhanced relaxation and maximum night’s sleep. Lace-up design accommodation clips help to secure sheets when desired as well as provide easy bedding customization when preferred. Our Mondo King comes dry so you can use it immediately out of the box without waiting time!
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Coleman Camping Cot, Air Mattress, and Pump Combo | Folding Camp Cot and Air Bed with Side Tables and Battery Operated Pump
This is a Coleman Camping Cot, Air Mattress, and Pump Combo. It’s like an air mattress that fits in your bed frame or other cots. The pump gets the airbed ready in under 2 minutes without any manual inflation—just plug it in, press a button, and let go
Additionally, there are two side tables on either side of the cot for storing personal items or keeping books upright to help with studying (especially suited for children). And don’t forget about the bag carry case! This great kit includes everything you need to quickly get this setup – simply unfold your new camping companion by unfolding along perforated lines on 4 corners of the product
These sleeping accessories and quality mattresses will provide hours of rest. I bought one for myself and liked it so much, I got my mom to buy one. And BTW, these are great for home use too!
Features Benefits And Key Description
Standard benefits:
- – Quick and easy setup
- – Comfortable sleeping surface
- – Sleep soundly in the great outdoors. This is a perfect blend of durable construction and design for ease of use.
- – The cot bed frame provides a sturdy place to rest your head when you’re tired after walking all day or exploring the great outdoors.
- – Supply yourself with a comfortable sleeping surface that feels like a home away from home in the great outdoors.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- – Comfortable sleeping surface
- – Durable construction
- – Easy to use
- – Provides a place to rest your head after walking or exploring the great outdoors.
Cons:
- – Quality control issues
- – Difficult to set up
Customer reviews: This is a fantastic combination of mattress and cot – no more sleeping on the ground, no more waking up with sore muscles. I was able to put this together myself in about 10 minutes. It’s reliable, comfortable, and very convenient. A great buy for anyone who likes camping!
Conclusion
This is a fantastic combination of mattress and cot – no more sleeping on the ground, no more waking up with sore muscles. I was able to put this together myself in about 10 minutes. It’s reliable, comfortable, and very convenient. A great buy for anyone who likes camping!
6. How to care for your new mattress, including washing instructions and how often to replace it
-WASHING INSTRUCTIONS
The best way to clean your mattress is to rotate it once every three months and then let it air out. It is a good idea to do this after you have rotated the mattress and are ready before you turn back into your bed. The rotation period also helps in making sure that no moisture build-up on one side of the bed. You want to start by airing out the top of the mattress, flipping it over, and taking off any sheets or covers. After this, take a vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment and clean any dirt buildup. Lastly, use a damp cloth over the entire bed, followed by another dry cloth.
-HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU REPLACE YOUR CAMPING AIR MATTRESS?
Caring for and maintaining your air mattress is very important because it can really prolong the life of the bed. There are many ways you can do this, one such way being to make sure there are no tears or rips in the fabric so that it doesn’t rip from air pressure. Make sure to rotate the mattress once or twice a year, and never store it in an air-tight bag or cover as this will make it harder for air to fill it up.
If your bed continues to deflate after you have re-inflated it then there may be a leak somewhere that needs repair. A slow loss of pressure is ok, but if it’s a fast leak then you need to get the air mattress fixed.
If your bed is showing other signs of wear such as tears, sagging in the middle, or discoloration that doesn’t go away when cleaned then it may be time to replace it. Most mattresses should last up to 5 years depending on how well you take care of them, but you should check with the manufacturer after that.
-HOW TO STORE YOUR NEW CAMPING AIR MATTRESS?
One thing to do is put it out in the sun on a date that has no rain forecasted and let it air out for 24 hours so that it is dry to the touch. After this, you want to make sure that it’s stored in a dry, ventilated area and away from any humidity.
It is important to check for leaks after storing your mattress because there could be moisture build-up causing the airbed to deflate over time. If you find any leaks then use an approved repair kit or product and patch it up. You can also try and add a waterproof sealer around the outside to ensure that it doesn’t leak again.
Note: The best time to store your bed is from spring to fall even though you may not be using it, and the worst time is during the summer and winter months because of extreme hot or cold temperatures. If you live in an area that experiences extreme heat or cold then it is best to store the mattress inside and place a vapor barrier over it.
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