A camping air bed for festivals or guests might seem straightforward at first: inflate it, lie down and you’re ready. In practice, however, the wrong size, an unsuitable pump or a lack of insulation can often lead to disappointment. So if you’re looking to buy a camping air bed, don’t focus solely on comfort or eye-catching product descriptions.
A single air bed that’s 76 cm wide may be big enough for one person, but it leaves little room for extra kit. For two people, you’ll generally need a much wider sleeping surface. A double air bed measuring 152 cm wide, for example, is designed for two people, but will take up correspondingly more floor space in your tent.
The height matters too. Low-profile models are usually easier to pack away, while a higher air bed can make getting in and out easier. For trekking and backpacking, though, a high air bed is often less suitable than a compact camping sleeping mat.
Some products come with a hand pump, while others have a built-in electric pump. If you buy an air bed for adults without a suitable pump, check in advance that any accessories you already own are compatible with its valve.
A USB pump also needs a suitable power source. An electric pump that runs on 220–240 V is more suited to home use, holiday accommodation or campsites with an electrical hook-up. For more remote spots, a hand pump or a USB pump powered by a power bank may be a better choice.
An air bed doesn’t automatically provide enough insulation against cold ground. Heat transfer depends on factors including the material, the height of the sleeping surface and the ground beneath it. An outdoor sleeping mat with a stated R-value gives you a more useful indication of its insulation. The Mobi Garden model with R2.6, for example, is described as an insulated foam mat.
In colder conditions, you can pair a camping mattress with an additional sleeping mat. A self-inflating air bed is a different type of product altogether and shouldn’t be confused with a basic foam mat.
Compare the external dimensions with the interior of your tent or the space you have available. You should also consider:
The weight capacity applies to the stated use. Don’t exceed it by jumping or standing on the air bed, or by placing extra weight on a single point.
PVC or vinyl forms the outer shell of many air beds. A flocked surface can help stop bedding from slipping and feel more comfortable. According to the product descriptions, the polyester fibres inside the air bed, such as those used in the Fiber-Tech construction of the Intex models mentioned, help to stabilise it.
Before setting it up, make sure the ground is clear of sharp stones, branches and other objects with sharp edges. A groundsheet can offer extra protection against wear and tear. Keep pets with sharp claws and naked flames away from the air bed.
For festival-goers and travellers, pack size matters just as much as weight. The Mobi Garden Egg Crate mat weighs around 750 g and can be rolled up. The narrower NT version weighs around 500 g and is designed to be lightweight to carry.
An air bed with an electric pump saves you the effort of pumping by hand, but it needs a power source. The Intex Prestige Mid-Rise Queen comes with a USB pump and, according to the product information, requires a USB-A power supply of at least 2 A. The Deluxe Ultra Plush Twin has a built-in pump for 220–240 V, making it more suitable for indoor use or campsites with a mains connection.
Why it suits this need: This single air bed measures 191 × 76 × 25 cm, weighs 1,71 kg and is designed for one person weighing up to 136 kg. It’s suitable for camping, festivals and occasional guests.
The dimensions, weight capacity and weight are clearly stated. The 2-in-1 valve has an extra-wide opening for inflating and deflating the air bed.
Single-person size, flocked surface and Fiber-Tech construction, according to the product description.
Why it suits this need: This double air bed offers a sleeping surface of 203 × 152 × 30 cm, has a stated weight capacity of 272 kg and comes with a USB pump.
The pump’s power requirements are clearly specified: USB-A and at least 2 A. This makes it easy to check before buying whether your power bank or power connection is suitable.
Spacious sleeping surface, 30 cm height, integrated Wave-Beam structure and USB pump included.
Why it suits this need: This folding sleeping mat measures 183 × 63 × 2,6 cm, weighs around 750 g and has an R-value of 2,6. It’s designed for camping, backpacking and picnics.
The R-value gives you a technical indication of how well the mat protects you from cold ground. It doesn’t need a pump, so you’ll have less extra kit to carry.
Lightweight design, water-repellent surface, XPE foam core and mats that can be joined together.
Why it suits this need: This single air bed measures 191 × 99 × 46 cm and has a built-in electric pump for 220–240 V. Its height makes it a practical choice as a portable guest bed.
The pump is built in, so there’s no need to choose a separate pump. However, if you’re camping without a mains connection, make sure you have a suitable power supply before you go.
46 cm height, built-in pump, carry bag and repair patches, according to the list of items included.
A hammock with pillows can also be a lovely option for a relaxing break in the garden or at a campsite. However, it won’t replace an air bed, and you’ll need suitable, secure anchor points. The JOYFURNOS model comes with two pillows and a carry bag; according to the product information, straps and carabiners aren’t included.
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.
It depends on the size, valve and pump. According to the product information, the Intex Classic Queen takes around 5,5 minutes to inflate with a hand pump, while the Prestige Mid-Rise Queen takes around 7 minutes with a USB pump. Times may vary depending on the power source, pump performance and how firm you want the air bed to be.
A slight change in firmness can be caused by the material stretching, temperature changes or air remaining in the material. According to the product information, new air beds may need topping up during the first few uses. A significant loss of pressure, however, is a reason to check the valve and surface for damage.
If the pump is built in or included, it only uses electricity while you’re inflating the air bed. The cost depends on the pump’s power consumption, how long it runs and your local electricity tariff. With USB pumps, how long you can use the pump also depends on your power bank’s capacity. For a night or two away, the energy used is usually less of a concern than carrying a large separate pump.