An air mattress can serve as a guest bed, a camping mattress or a flexible sleeping solution for a small home. However, not every model is suitable for every situation. If you focus only on a low price or an especially soft surface, you could overlook important details such as the maximum weight capacity, the pump you’ll need or the packed size.
This buying guide explains which features to look for before buying an inflatable mattress, and which models suit different uses.
Product names such as ‘airbed’ or ‘air mattress’ don’t automatically mean that a pump is included. Some models need a separate hand, foot or electric pump. For a camping mattress, this may be fine if you already have a portable pump. For a guest bed, however, a built-in pump is often more convenient.
So check the details for ‘pump included’, ‘integrated electric pump’ or ‘pump not included’. The power supply matters too: an airbed with a 220–240 V electric pump needs a power socket, while a USB pump runs from a suitable 5-volt power source.
A double air mattress measuring 152 × 203 cm gives two people more room to sleep than a single air mattress. However, you’ll need enough space in the bedroom to set it up and get around it. For smaller rooms, a single air mattress between 76 and 99 cm wide may be more practical.
Height affects how you use it too: a raised airbed makes getting in and out easier, but doesn’t necessarily take up less storage space when packed away. For festivals or backpacking trips, lower-profile, lightweight models are often a better choice.
A soft, flocked surface can feel more pleasant and help keep your bed sheet in place. But how comfortable a mattress feels also depends on its internal construction, air pressure, your height and the weight it carries. Don’t inflate an air mattress beyond the stated limit. Too much pressure can strain the seams and material.
First, compare the length, width and height with the space where you plan to use the mattress. Common options include:
The maximum weight capacity needs to suit how you plan to use the mattress. For the models listed here, for example, the manufacturers’ stated limits range from 136 kg for several single models to 272 kg for selected double models. These figures shouldn’t be taken as a recommendation to exceed the limit for extended periods.
PVC or vinyl is used in many inflatable mattresses. Flocked surfaces can provide a softer place to sleep. Designs such as Fiber-Tech, Wave-Beam or Coil-Beam describe each manufacturer’s internal support system. They shouldn’t be taken as a guarantee of personal comfort.
A clean, level surface and protection from sharp objects, pets’ claws, heat and naked flames are also important for extending the mattress’s life. A repair patch is handy for minor damage, but it’s no substitute for careful use.
An airbed with a built-in pump can make set-up much easier. According to the product details, the models listed here take around three to six minutes to inflate, depending on the model. These times are based on the manufacturers’ stated figures and can vary depending on how firm you want the mattress and the power source.
Models with a 220–240 V electric pump are a good choice for home use. For camping without access to a power socket, a hand pump, USB pump or battery-powered pump offers more flexibility. If you’re considering a battery-powered model, check whether the batteries are included. For example, the Bestway Queen model requires four D-cell batteries, which are sold separately.
Why this product suits you: This single model is designed for guest rooms, occasional overnight stays and use on the go. It needs a separate pump and deflates via a 2-way quick-release valve.
The product description clearly states that a pump isn’t included. This means you can plan for the extra equipment before buying.
Flocked surface, PVC construction, Twin size and quick-release valve.
Why this product suits you: Measuring 191 × 99 × 46 cm, this model is designed as a raised guest bed for one person. According to the product details, its built-in electric pump runs on 220–240 V.
The pump is built in, and the maximum weight capacity is stated as 136 kg. This clearly answers two common questions: what accessories you need and how much weight it can support.
46 cm height, Fiber-Tech internal construction, flocked surface and carry bag.
Why this product suits you: Measuring 191 × 99 × 30 cm, this single air mattress is aimed at people looking for a portable option for camping, festivals or guests.
The power supply is clearly specified: it has a built-in USB pump. That’s more informative than a general description that doesn’t say what power source you’ll need.
USB pump, 30 cm height, Fiber-Tech construction, carry bag and the option to inflate it with a hand or foot pump.
Why this product suits you: This double air mattress has room for two people and a raised design that makes getting in and out easier.
The product details state both the maximum weight capacity of 272 kg and the required 220–240 V power supply.
42 cm height, built-in electric pump, 203 × 152 cm sleeping area and carry bag.
We’ve put together a complete, regularly updated list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and fully comply with the safety regulations in force in the EU.
Place the air mattress on a dry, level and clean surface. Remove stones, twigs and other sharp objects. Clean flocked surfaces with a slightly damp cloth. Make sure the product is completely dry before folding it away.
The material in new models may stretch a little after first use. If the mattress feels softer, you may need to top it up carefully. Avoid overinflating it, jumping on it or standing on the sleeping surface. For electric pumps, keep the power connections and pump components away from moisture, and unplug the pump once inflation is complete.
Depending on the pump and model, inflation takes around three to six minutes according to the product details. A built-in electric pump is handy indoors. When camping without a power socket, you’ll need a hand, foot, USB or battery-powered pump.
Its lifespan depends on the material, the weight it carries, how it’s stored and the surface it’s used on. PVC and vinyl models should be protected from sharp objects, heat, pets and naked flames. Regularly checking for leaks and storing the mattress somewhere dry can help keep it in good condition.
A slight loss of pressure can be caused by temperature changes or the material stretching. You may occasionally need to top it up after first use. However, if it deflates noticeably, there may be a leak in the valve or damage to the mattress. If this happens, don’t put any more weight on it until you’ve checked what’s causing the problem.