Best Air Mattress For Camping: The Comfort Of Your Home Bed On A Camping Trip

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Living outdoors can be fun, but it takes some adaptability. 

If you are used to sleeping in your bed each night, you might find a smaller mattress a little more uncomfortable. 

However, the best air mattress for camping tries to overcome this issue by giving you comfort while enjoying the best nature has to offer.

As an avid backpacker, I understand the struggle with weight and keeping it to a minimum. It led to a few bad nights with tough mattresses that just don't cut it.

However, I have had a few great nights with good mattresses as well. With a couple of features, one needs to look at before buying one. This article will give you a deeper insight into finding the top air mattresses for camping.

More...

Editor's Choices
SoundAsleep Products SoundAsleep CloudNine Series Air Mattress with Dual Smart Pump Technology Queen...*
Best Selling
Therm-a-Rest MondoKing 3D Self-Inflating Foam Camping Mattress, Standard Valve (2018 Model),...*
Size (Unfolded)
78 x 58 x 19-inches
80 x 30 x 4-inches
Weight Limit
500-pounds
250-pounds
Best Feature
Silent pump retains firmness in the background
Self-inflates with no pump needed
Price
$224.95
Price not available
Rating
-
-
Editor's Choices
SoundAsleep Products SoundAsleep CloudNine Series Air Mattress with Dual Smart Pump Technology Queen...*
Size (Unfolded)
78 x 58 x 19-inches
Weight Limit
500-pounds
Best Feature
Silent pump retains firmness in the background
Price
$224.95
Rating
-
Best Selling
Therm-a-Rest MondoKing 3D Self-Inflating Foam Camping Mattress, Standard Valve (2018 Model),...*
Size (Unfolded)
80 x 30 x 4-inches
Weight Limit
250-pounds
Best Feature
Self-inflates with no pump needed
Price
Price not available
Rating
-

The Best Air Mattress in 2024: My Recommendations

best air mattresses 2019

Looking at a few of the top features, one can easily find these mattresses, but not all of us love reading. Fortunately, we have done the legwork for you to find the top mattresses. 

Before we get into the technical features, let’s start with a few of the most amazing cushions that could take your camping experience to the next level

Etekcity Twin Queen Size Comfort Air Mattress

The Etekcity Twin Queen Size Comfort Air Mattress might be a slightly older mattress on the market, but it has built up an enormous reputation when you look at quality. Since puncture resistant materials are used, the double layer design offers a lot of durability to users.

The mattress features a built-in pump that allows you to inflate the mattress in less than 5-minutes quickly. It might need some power to inflate, but once done, a compartment has been integrated to keep the power cable out of your way and reduce some of the clutter.

The bed itself not only features a design with different veins, but these will mold to the shape of your body once you use it.

According to the manufacturer, it can hold a maximum of 550-pounds, making it perfect for more than one person to handle. Finally, it weighs around 13.15-pounds when packed, making it ideal for your backpack.

The mattress has served me well when it comes to providing a comfortable sleeping environment. Not only is it durable, but priced to be affordable for most campers.

A limited 2-year warranty has been included for some peace of mind as well. My biggest complaint is that it will lose a little bit of air pressure every time it is used.

Pros
  • Durable double layer construction
  • Eco-friendly
  • Molds to the shape of your body
  • Includes a limited 2-year warranty
Cons
  • Tends to lose air pressure over longer stints

Therm-a-Rest MondoKing 3D Self-Inflating Foam Camping Mattress

Therm-a-Rest is one of the most reliable camping brands when it comes to comfort. However, the Therm-a-Rest MondoKing 3D Self-Inflating Foam Camping Mattress takes it to the next level of convenience for campers.

It has been constructed from durable 75D polyester, giving you added durability, with a comfortable feel to the skin.

While the mattress is self-inflating and does not require any additional pumps, it can still be compressed to fit into the back of your car. However, it might be too large to work for your backpack.

One of the best features is undoubtedly the urethane foam insert that forms the inner core. It will mold almost in the same way as you would expect memory foam to behave. However, it will jump back to the normal state once you stand up.

It might only be ideal for one person to use and the 30-inch width can be a little bit of a snug fit for two individuals, but the walls have been designed in a way that allows you to fit 2 of these mattresses together with ease.

Unfortunately, it is a little bit expensive to buy one of these mattresses, but they are guaranteed to last you a long time. The overall weight is only 6.7-pounds, and this can hold individuals up to 250-pounds with no real issues.

Pros
  • Extremely durable 75D polyester construction
  • Only weighs 6.7-pounds
  • Self-inflatable design
  • Acts the same as memory foam
Cons
  • It is expensive
  • Not ideal for backpacks

SoundAsleep Products SoundAsleep CloudNine Series Queen Air Mattress

If you are looking for the best possible comfort one could as for, the SoundAsleep Products SoundAsleep CloudNine Series Queen Air Mattress will be the one you need to go with. The mattress itself has been mainly constructed from eco-friendly PVC that holds up well in all conditions.

However, the feature that I like the most is the fact that it can be inflated in under 4-minutes. It does not stop there.

The mattress also includes a dual pump system. This means it will be raised and a silent pump will be running in the background to ensure that the firmness is sustained.

I-Beam internal coils are part of the ComfortCoil Technology that has been introduced. It not only helps to maintain the firmness of the mattress but keeps you level and flat when you are sleeping.

Since it is a queen-size mattress, two people will comfortably be able to have a good night's rest.

Once again, you might need to consider looking at the price first. It is also one of the more expensive air mattresses that are currently available.

It also weighs around 25-pounds but can hold a massive 500-pounds of weight or even more. The 1-year limited warranty should add some peace of mind when you buy it.

Pros
  • Constructed from eco-friendly PVC
  • SureGrip design to keep it from sliding around
  • Advanced comfort technology
  • The silent pump will always maintain the firmness
Cons
  • Also expensive
  • A little heavy

King Koil QUEEN SIZE Luxury Raised Air Mattress

If comfort is the name of the game, King Koil is the brand that many people have relied on for many years. The King Koil QUEEN SIZE Luxury Raised Air Mattress is constructed from eco-friendly PVC but includes a softer layer that will enhance the comfort of the bed.

As with most elevated air mattresses, this one also features a built-in electric pump. Yes, you might need an electrical outlet, but it will be inflated in only a matter of minutes. The pump also ensures that you can keep it firm when it has been raised.

The mattress boasts coil beam construction that ensures a comfortable feeling. This might even rival many of the memory foam air mattresses that you might have used.

According to the manufacturer, it also improves and promotes better posture in users, while giving you excellent heat retention for use in the winter.

Unfortunately, it can be a little priced on the high side, but you will be getting great value for your money. This mattress is not for use when you need portability.

It might be able to hold 600-pounds, but the mattress itself also weighs around 17-pounds. You should note that a 1-year limited warranty is included.

Pros
  • Hold up to 600-pounds
  • Includes Coil Beam Technology
  • Inflates in a matter of minutes
  • 1-year limited warranty
Cons
  • A little expensive

ALPS Mountaineering Velocity Air Bed

ALPS Mountaineering has been around for many years now, and while they are not a specialist in outdoor mattresses, they have an excellent reputation for the products they design.

The ALPS Mountaineering Velocity Air Bed is a unique bed that not only looks good but works for backpacking and camping.

The polyester fabric that has been used might not be as environmentally friendly, but it is much safer to the skin of us humans.

With the weight being evenly distributed, this mattress is also around 45% lighter than most other PVC options.

The mattress itself is rather basic, and it comes with a standard pump that you need to use to inflate it. It can also be used to deflate the mattress before it fits snug into a bag that makes it much easier to carry along with you.

Users should also note that it is available in two different sizes (Twin & Queen) depending on what you need.

I think this is one of those lightweight mattresses that you will use when you are on your own, or you like backpacking. The mattress itself might be a little expensive if you look at the basic features, but it still offers a lot of value to users.

I have used it for backpacking and would also recommend it to backpackers keeping the weight down.

Pros
  • Lightweight at only 5.9-pounds
  • Available in 2 different sizes
  • Simple and easy to use the pump
  • Puncture resistant polyester
  • Reasonably priced
Cons
  • No real advanced features

Lightspeed Outdoors 2 Person Air Bed Mattress

Next,  we are looking at one of the more affordable options on the market today. The Lightspeed Outdoors 2 Person Air Bed Mattress has been constructed from almost a complete polyester base and claim that no PVC is present.

Thermoplastic polyurethane has been included, and while this is a cheap alternative for foam, it will inevitably keep the firmness of the mattress at the right level. Once folded, it only weighs 6-pounds, allowing you to carry it with you comfortably.

The part that I like the most is that this is one of those mattresses that almost guarantee you won’t need to deal with any abrasions.

It also retains the heat much better than most of the other materials. Much like the other top options, the battery operated pump can be charged, and your air mattress should be inflated in only a couple of minutes.

As for the price, it is one of the most affordable high-end options on the market today.

The mattress is available in numerous different sizes, but this 2-person option is capable of holding up to 500-pounds. I would recommend it to beginners and those strapped to a tight budget that likes to go camping and enjoy the outdoors.

Pros
  • Inflates in a couple of minutes
  • Lightweight and easy to carry
  • Abrasion-resistant
  • AffordableAffordable
Cons
  • Tends to lose air pressure

Intex Classic Downy Airbed Set

The Intex Classic Downy Airbed Set is an excellent example of a standard air mattress. It has been constructed from basic polyester, but the fabric cover adds a lot to the durability and makes it softer on the body.

This air mattress also includes two inflatable pillows to make your sleeping experience a little better. 

A standard pump is included for inflating the air mattress, but since it is more of a foot pump, it might take a bit more time to do so.

As we already mentioned, durability is one of the best aspects, and this airbed can hold a size-able 600-pound weight limit. Once it has been packed up and deflated, the weight will drop down to a mere 3 pounds. It has helped me with longer backpacking trips to take something a little more lightweight along for the journey.

Intex is also not that expensive, and this can be seen with this air mattress. It is undoubtedly one of the more affordable options on the market today.

Should you encounter rain or wet conditions, it is worth noting that this air mattress is entirely waterproof.

I would recommend it as a great backpacking air mattress.

Pros
  • Lightweight
  • Holds up to 600-pounds
  • Waterproof construction
  • Affordable
Cons
  • The pump takes a little while to inflate the mattress fully

What You Should Know Before Buying The Best Air Mattress For Camping:

Now that you have seen the best air mattresses, we also need to look at a few of the essential features that were used to pick them.

Since you probably already know which one you are looking for, we will keep this short.

Here is a few consideration to keep in mind before buying

1. Type


best air mattress affordable

Air mattresses are available in different types, and you need to decide which one will be the best bet to use.

Here is s short breakdown of the different types you can choose from:

  • Standard Air Mattress: The standard air mattress is readily available and lightweight. They are economical and can easily be inflated with a standard pump. These are the most affordable as well.
  • Self-Inflating: A self-inflating air mattress is prevalent. With a foam substance on the inside, these mattresses will inflate themselves, and you only need to struggle with deflating them. The downside is that they are ample to carry.
  • Elevated Beds: If sleeping on the floor is not your forte and you don’t like the camping cot, you might love the elevated beds. These are a lifted off the ground, and they are a little thicker. I would choose one for the added comfort and the better weight limit.

No matter which one you choose, they are all ideal for camping.

The prices might vary a little from one to the other, but they all serve the same purpose of giving you comfort when you are sleeping.


2. Materials

The materials directly translate to durability.

It is no secret that PVC is a little more durable and eco-friendly than polyester, but it is not as good for the human body.

If you plan to use the mattress a lot, I would not recommend choosing PVC as the base materials.

However, it does give you a little more firmness to work with.


3. Size 

best air mattress amazon

Most air mattresses are available in a wide array of different sizes and depending on your needs, you will need to consider this.

The twin size air mattress is probably the most common, but for larger individuals, a queen-size should work best.


4. Portability

Most air mattresses are available in a wide array of different sizes and depending on your needs; you will need to consider this.

The twin size air mattress is probably the most common, but for larger individuals, a queen-size should work best.

the best air mattress for camping

Why Should I Choose An Air Mattress?

The air mattress is a simple and effective way to give you more comfort when you are camping.

It does not have real posture support and might not be ideal for long-term use, but it will be better than sleeping on the floor when you are camping.

An air mattress is also insulated, which makes it warmer to sleep on cold nights.

The air mattress can replace the camping cot with ease if you need something lightweight.

It might not be as elevated, but the comfort is most certainly a reason that will ensure you enjoy the camping trip even more.

Which One Would I Pick?

All of these mattresses serve a particular purpose, and I would like to have them all. The SoundAsleep CloudNine Series Queen Air Mattress is the mattress I would go for if I needed one immediately.

SoundAsleep Products SoundAsleep CloudNine Series Air Mattress with Dual Smart Pump Technology Queen...*
  • Integrated Dual Smart Pump Technology. The CloudNine Series has a proprietary dual pump system which continuously and silently runs in the background providing a firm mattress all night long! Perfect for in-home use!
  • Auto-off pump with 3 comfort levels designed for every type of sleeper! The primary pump automatically inflates and deflates the air mattress in 4 minutes. Our propriatary Smart Pump monitors and silently maintains the air pressure. Convenient auto-shut automatically turns the pump system off when the the desired firmness level is reached
  • ComfortCoil Technology showcases industry leading design with I-Beam internal air coils for flat and level sleeping surface. Your bed remains flat and firm so you can stay SoundAsleep!
  • Queen Sized with Inflated Dimensions of: 78" x 58" x 19" - Raised "Double-height" air bed with dual chamber construction. "Sure-Grip" bottom prevents bed from unwanted sliding
  • Extra thick, waterproof flocked top for added comfort and durability with multilayer, puncture-resistant material. Carry bag included for easy transport! SoundAsleep's consumer friendly 1-year warranty. Call or email any time for support

It comes with great features and an affordable price tag. Whether you are a beginner or expert camper, it will work.

A Final Word

The best air mattresses for camping can make a massive difference to the way you enjoy your trip. Adding more comfort at nights can help you recharge each time to ensure you are ready for the adventures of the next day.

Now that all has been said and done, you are ready to choose the right mattress to meet all your needs.

Let us know if you have ever used one of these camping mattresses and if we might have missed a few that you think should also be on this list.

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