Camping can be much more comfortable when you have the essentials to sleep and relax on. These days, camping mattresses are available in various types, and air mattresses are the best considering that they pack light and are easy to maintain.
We searched all over the web to gather the 10 best air mattresses available. Our favorite was the King Koil Luxury Air Mattress because it has vertical air chambers, is double-height, is flocked, has a quilted top, and has the ability to inflate in under three minutes. Be sure to check out the whole list and read our accompanying buying guide, which was reviewed by an outdoor guide, for how to choose the perfect camping mattress!
Quick List - Top Air Mattresses for Camping
Coleman
Best Air Mattress and Cot With Pull-Out Tables
Therm-a-Rest
Best Air Mattress for Backpacking and Traveling Light
My name is 박 (Pak). I am a first-generation Korean American who has worked in the outdoors for 6 years as a guide. Now I'm enjoying traveling around with my bicycle and spending time outdoors with my dog Gaara.
mybest US' editing team consists of experienced members who have backgrounds in writing, editing, translation, and more. We are dedicated to researching what makes a product or service the best to users in the US in order to create top-quality articles. From skincare, to kitchen appliances, and to DIY supplies, our mission is to find the best ones for you.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
Every mybest article is crafted with hours of in-depth research and interviews with experts. Each month, we are continually expanding our database of products based on our research. By emphasizing user insight and reliable information, we deliver trustworthy content to readers.
Here are some guidelines to follow when searching for an air mattress for your next camping trip, including ease of use, comfort, and more.
Self-inflating mattresses are easy to use and quick to inflate. They're lightweight, very portable, and easy to store. They work as the foam in them expands, and you can add more air by mouth or with a pump, for extra firmness.
Manual pump air mattresses offer control and personalization when adding air, ensuring you can adjust the firmness to your liking. It makes them a bit less quick and convenient, but for those with specific firmness preferences, it's worth it. They also don't require electricity.
Some mattresses have a built-in electric pump and are inflated by plugging them into an electric socket or your car. With others, you use batteries to operate the electric pump. Battery-powered pumps can be a preferable solution for camping, as you get the benefits of electricity even if you're not near a power source.
Be sure to look for manual air mattresses that you blow with your mouth that have an easy to blow valve attachment. Some mattresses have a twistlock mechanism, while others have a dual chamber system, where one chamber you can blow into and the other you can open to let all of the air out.
It can be said that comfort and support are the key features in any mattress and air mattresses are much the same. Keep an eye out for these details to provide a more pleasant sleeping experience.
Even basic air mattresses offer extra comfort over a sleeping bag, but there are even more features that increase comfort that you can look for. Additional padding on top of the mattress is helpful, such as thick foam layers or a sleeping bag built right into it.
Some mattresses have a fuzzy layer on the very top, these are generally called "flocked mattresses". This layer not only helps sheets and blankets adhere to the surface better, but some people think the fuzziness is soft enough to use instead of sheets altogether!
Built-in pillows are another convenient comfort feature. With a built-in pillow, you won't have to bring along your own on a camping trip. You can also add a separate pillow on top of the built-in pillow for extra support.
Depending on the conditions of where you'll be sleeping, especially if it's in the wilderness, look for the sleeping pad's R value. This system goes from 1 to 8 where a lower number means there is less insulation and is perfect for warm days.
A higher R value number means more insulation, so you'll be able to sleep in colder temperatures if you are camping in the fall or winter. Many outdoor sleeping pads are rated for three seasons but looking at the R value provides more specificity depending on the conditions of where you'll be sleeping.
Some features add to the overall support of a mattress. Vertical chambers, also called vertical air coils, help distribute your weight evenly across the mattress. Mattresses with horizontal chambers can still be comfortable, but they often sag at the edges. You can spot a mattress with vertical chambers because the sides will look like columns instead of rows.
Double-height mattresses can offer more support and comfort than standard air mattresses. These mattresses are usually around 18 inches thick, and though they're typically less portable due to their size, they offer stability that nearly compares to a standard bed.
Some mattresses available allow you to specifically customize your firmness setting. Choosing your ideal density is a great feature to personalize your mattress from soft and plush to extra firm. This is beneficial for a bad back, side sleepers, back sleepers, or purely for your own customized support.
Air mattresses imitate conventional mattresses and are available in various sizes. You can find them in sizes ranging from single to king sizes. Factor in not only how many people you intend to have sleeping on one mattress, but also your body size. There are air mattresses for children and they are typically smaller and more compact.
The filling inside the mattress and its thickness can affect its weight. However, the thicker the mattress is, the more cushioning and insulation it offers. Also, be aware of the weight and length if you intend on placing the mattress on a camping cot to ensure it will fit comfortably.
A fully inflatable mattress is easier to fold up and pack away inside your backpack. These are great options for hikers and backpackers as they are extremely portable. If you are unconcerned about your camping gear’s weight, such as those car camping, investing in a larger model would be a good idea. It gives more sleeping room and also accommodates more than one person at a time.
Make sure you take into account the size of the tent as well as the people accommodating it before buying an air mattress for camping. You can also find an air mattress that fits into the back of your SUV for a comfortable and peaceful slumber inside your vehicle.
For those backpacking, be mindful of how bulky the pad is when you are trying to pack for your trip. You want to make sure that pad is able to fit inside of your pack with everything else that you'll be carrying.
Most air mattresses are made of PVC, a soft vinyl-like plastic that's waterproof, versatile, and durable. PVC mattresses are widely available and very popular. The main downside is the presence of phthalates, a group of chemicals that emit an unpleasant odor and that some individuals are allergic to.
Urethane plastic is quickly gaining popularity as an alternative to PVC, as it's very similar, being easy to maintain and very versatile. Urethane plastic is softer and more comfortable than PVC and it's also more durable, although this does generally make it more expensive.
A variation called thermoplastic urethane, or TPU, is one of the highest quality materials on the market, providing extra durability while still being lightweight and elastic. It also emits no odor.
Most of these materials are simple to spot clean, though if you opt for a fuzzy flocked mattress, it won't easily wipe clean. All of these materials are also very durable, most especially thermoplastic urethane. This is extra helpful if you intend to go camping with your dog. Their little claws could damage the mattress if you don't get one tough enough!
Extra layers of foam or rubber on a mattress can help enhance durability, as can laying a mat underneath the mattress and carefully checking for rocks before you lay it out.
The best way to prevent holes in your sleeping pad is to look for an area with the least amount of sharp objects and use your foot to sweep away anything that might puncture your pad. Sleeping in a tent with an internal floor is a good way to separate your pad from the ground and is highly recommended.
Also, putting a foam pad under your air mattress will give it that extra protection from sharp objects. In case of a puncture, you should always bring a repair kit to fix any issues with a leaking pad. Sleeping on the ground is never fun!
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | King Koil Luxury Raised Air Mattress | ![]() | Best Air Mattress With Extra Comfort Features | |
2 | Coleman Folding Camp Cot and Air Bed with Side Tables | ![]() | Best Air Mattress and Cot With Pull-Out Tables | |
3 | Therm-a-Rest Self-Inflating Foam Camping Mattress | ![]() | Best Air Mattress for Cold Nights | |
4 | Therm-a-Rest Ultralight Backpacking Air Mattress | ![]() | Best Air Mattress for Backpacking and Traveling Light | |
5 | Lazery Sleep Twin Air Mattress with Remote LED Pump | ![]() | Best Air Mattress With Adjustable Firmness | |
6 | SoundAsleep Queen Size Dream Series Air Mattress | ![]() | Best Air Mattress That Uses Eco-Friendly PVC | |
7 | Klymit Twin XL Air Mattress | ![]() | Best Air Mattress for Mouth Inflation | |
8 | hiccapop Anywhere Toddler Bed | ![]() | Best Air Mattress for Toddlers | |
9 | Wellax SUV Air Mattress | ![]() | Best Air Mattress for Car Camping | |
10 | Intex Downy Airbed with Built-in Foot Pump | ![]() | Best Air Mattress With Built-in Manual Pump |
Pros:
Cons:
This mattress has a wide range of comfort features included, such as thick quilted padding, vertical air coils, and an impressive 20-inch height. Unlike many other mattresses, both the top and the sides are flocked to better hold sheets and blankets in place. It also inflates in only two minutes and thirty seconds.
Some users complained that it doesn't hold air for long and needs refilling often. Customers loved the side-flocking and said it held sheets better than just top-flocking. They also liked the long pump cord, firm support, and said it was incredibly comfortable.
Pros:
Cons:
This queen-size air mattress comes with a steel frame cot, so it's easy to lower yourself on to. It includes two fold-out side tables for conveniently setting necessities on, and has space for luggage underneath it. Folded into its carrying bag, it's like bringing an entire bed with you at only 40 pounds!
Some reviewers say it's noisy when you move, but mention that a mattress cover solves this. Most buyers loved how well it supported multiple people, saying it easily fits two to three. They also liked the side tables, saying they were good for beverages, tablets, and smartphones.
Pros:
Cons:
The Therm-a-Rest MondoKing is an extra-large camping mattress insulated with dense thermal foam that will keep you warm even in the coldest temperatures. The foam expands when unpacked, with a valve for topping up with more air, by mouth or pump, when needed.
A few buyers had trouble deflating it when ready to pack it up. But overwhelmingly, customers are very satisfied, saying it's comfortable, convenient, and very warm. One buyer said it's nearly too warm in the summer. It also comes in two sizes to suit tall and short campers.
Pros:
Cons:
This air mattress is convenient for backpacking and traveling as it packs down to nine inches, which is nearly the size of a bottle of water. It also weighs only eight ounces, making it very lightweight. It also features a valve design which speeds up inflation.
A few buyers said the crinkling sound of the vinyl was too noisy for them. Although, the majority said it was a great product and perfect to take on hikes. Many agreed that it's very lightweight and others said it's surprisingly comfortable and warm.
Pros:
Cons:
The Lazery Sleep Twin Air Mattress features a built-in remote to adjust the firmness of the mattress as you lie on it. You can choose from seven different firmness levels to suit your needs. It also has vertical air chambers for sturdy support and a flocked top to hold sheets in place.
Some users complain that it's prone to leaking and has weak seams, however, most customers are very happy with the mattress, saying it's the most comfortable air mattress they've tried. They're also very pleased with how easy it is to inflate and deflate.
Pros:
Cons:
SoundAsleep's Dream Series air mattress is made of eco-friendly PVC, which means soybean oil is used in the production of the plastic instead of potentially harmful phthalates. It includes great comfort features like double height and 40 vertical air chambers. The bottom has grips to ensure no sliding on hard surfaces.
A few buyers complain that the bed deflates slightly overnight, causing it to bow. But most who've used it for camping were happy with how it held up. Other users like that it's very comfortable and inflates quickly.
Pros:
Cons:
This Klymit insulated sleeping pad is designed for quick inflation, even if you have no pump on hand. Its chamber design makes it simple to just use your mouth. It also features lofted synthetic insulation to keep you warm on a cold camping trip. Its V-shaped air chambers offer further comfort.
Some customers were disappointed with how thin it was, although one buyer said its warmth made up for its thinness. Others were impressed with how small it folds up and how easy it is to breath-inflate it. Some buyers claimed it was the best sleeping pad to carry along in their hiking bag when they're out on the trail.
Pros:
Cons:
This air mattress makes it easy to go camping even with very young ones. It's surrounded by extra tall bumper walls to ensure a toddler's safety, and the mattress is removable for easy cleaning. It inflates in only 30 seconds, making it great for camping.
A couple reviewers were disappointed at how easily it tore at the seams. Although, buyers loved the safety walls and how compact and portable it is. Many users also loved that standard crib sheets fit the mattress perfectly, so you don't need to buy any new covers, just bring your baby's current sheets.
Pros:
Cons:
This sleeping pad is the perfect size for camping in the back of your car. Additionally, it self-inflates, making it convenient to sleep at any time. It features a thick layer of memory foam for added support and comfort. Made of sturdy nylon, it's rip-resistant and waterproof.
A few users thought it was too large even when rolled up, but they said they'd still use it for car camping when they wouldn't have to carry it to a campground. People loved the memory foam and said it provided a lot of comfort. Some others said they were pleased with how efficiently it inflated.
Pros:
Cons:
This mattress provides you with a built-in foot pump, so you can conveniently inflate it no matter where you are. You can also choose it with a battery-operated pump. It features construction for stability and support and is velvet-flocked for comfort.
Some customers say the plug can loosen, so the mattress doesn't hold air for long. But many attest to its durability and comfort. Others say the built-in foot pump works excellently, but the added option for a separate pump is appreciated.
The Thermarest NeoAir Xtherm an ultralight sleeping pad with one of the best warmth to weight ratios of any sleeping pad. It can be used in all four seasons with an R value of 6.9. Thermarest also has a great warranty system if there are any issues with the product.
No need to sacrifice the comforts of home. Here are some other items that can help you sleep well on your next camping trip!
This expert reviewed the contents of the buying guide for accuracy and provided factual corrections when necessary. They did not participate in the product selection process, nor are they affiliated with any of our choices unless explicitly stated so.
No. 1: King Koil|Luxury Raised Air Mattress
No. 2: Coleman | Folding Camp Cot and Air Bed with Side Tables
No. 3: Therm-a-Rest |Self-Inflating Foam Camping Mattress
No. 4: Therm-a-Rest|Ultralight Backpacking Air Mattress
No. 5: Lazery Sleep|Twin Air Mattress with Remote LED Pump
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
Health
Beauty
Home goods
Home electronics
PC
Camera
Food and drinks
Kitchen
Fashion
Accessories
Kids and baby
Interior
Hobbies
Outdoor
Home, garden, and tools
Sports and fitness
Pets
Media
Games
Apps
Automotive
Gifts
Mobile devices