An Intex air bed can serve as a space-saving guest bed, a camping bed or a temporary place to sleep. Before you buy, it’s worth checking the technical details carefully. Not every inflatable bed suits every home or location.
Three common buying mistakes often lead to the wrong choice:
There are several sizes to choose from for one person. An air bed for 1 person that’s 76 cm wide is compact and suitable for camping, festivals or smaller rooms. Models around 99 cm wide offer more room to move.
An air bed for 2 people is usually around 137 to 152 cm wide and 191 to 203 cm long. Before buying, check that its dimensions will fit the room, tent or sleeping area you have in mind. An raised air bed with a height of 30 to 46 cm can make it easier to get in and out. Lower models, at around 25 cm high, are usually easier to transport and take up less space.
Several Intex models use Fiber-Tech technology. Polyester fibres inside the bed form its supporting structure. Product descriptions present this as a construction made up of numerous lightweight, durable fibres. However, the bed’s stability still depends on inflating it correctly, the surface it’s placed on and the maximum weight capacity.
A Dura-Beam air bed is a model range with this type of internal construction. A flocked surface can change how the bed feels and helps prevent bedding from slipping easily. Depending on the model, the base and sides are made of PVC or vinyl. Keep these materials away from sharp objects, animal claws and excessive heat.
An air bed with a pump saves time when you’re setting it up. There are three types to choose from:
A built-in pump can make inflation and deflation easier. However, you’ll still need to check how firm the bed feels. Inflate it only to the firmness recommended by the manufacturer.
Why this product suits you: This model for two has a sleeping surface of 203 × 152 cm, stands 25 cm high and comes with a hand pump and two inflatable pillows. It’s suitable for occasional overnight guests at home or for use on the go.
The features are clearly specified: a hand pump rather than an unsuitable mains-powered option, a 2-in-1 valve and a maximum weight capacity of 272 kg.
Fiber-Tech construction, flocked surface, hand pump, two pillows and repair patch included.
Why this product suits you: This single air bed measures 191 × 99 × 46 cm. Its raised design can make it easier to get in and out of, and it’s made to be used as a guest bed indoors.
The 220–240 V pump is clearly intended for indoor use. The 136 kg weight limit helps prevent use beyond the manufacturer’s recommended capacity.
46 cm height, Fiber-Tech construction, flocked surface, integrated electric pump, carry bag and repair patch.
Why this product suits you: This air bed for two measures 203 × 152 × 30 cm and uses a USB150 pump. It’s a good fit for households that regularly host guests and need a flexible power supply.
The required USB-A power source, with at least 2 A, is specified. This lets you check before buying whether your power bank or mains adapter is suitable.
30 cm height, Fiber-Tech technology, reinforced base construction, flocked surface and integrated USB pump.
Why this product suits you: This single camping air bed measures 191 × 76 × 25 cm and weighs 1.71 kg, according to the product details. It’s designed to be compact and easy to transport.
This model doesn’t need a permanently installed electric pump. Its wide-opening 2-in-1 valve makes it easier to inflate and deflate with a compatible pump.
Compact dimensions, 136 kg maximum weight capacity, Fiber-Tech technology and a soft, flocked sleeping surface.
Place the air bed on a clean, level surface, clear of stones, edges and other sharp objects. A suitable groundsheet in your tent can provide extra protection. Don’t inflate the bed beyond the recommended firmness. Some models may stretch a little after their first use. According to the product details, you can top them up after a few hours.
After use, make sure the air bed is completely dry before folding it away. Remove dirt with a damp cloth and mild cleaning product, if recommended for your model. Store the inflatable bed somewhere cool and dry, away from direct sunlight. A repair patch can fix minor damage, but it won’t replace checking the bed for more serious damage.
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 model and pump. The product details give inflation times ranging from around two to seven minutes. A USB or electric pump can make setup easier. With a hand pump, the time depends more on the type of pump and how firm you want the bed to be.
The bed may feel slightly less firm due to the material stretching, changes in temperature or the weight on it. Start by checking the valve and surface. You may need to top it up after the first use. If it keeps losing a noticeable amount of pressure, check for a leak.
Running costs are generally low because the pump is used for a short time, and are lower than the purchase price. The power source you have available is what matters: a 220–240 V model needs a mains socket, while a USB pump needs a compatible power supply. For camping without mains electricity, you’ll need a manual pump or a suitable power bank.