Camping is an excellent way to de-stress and disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Still, sleeping on the ground can leave you with uncomfortable neck and back pain. Taking an air mattress with you can alleviate the discomfort associated with camping, but some are cumbersome to pack. If you’re looking for a great air mattress to take camping, you’ll want to consider its size, weight and ease of setting up.
You’ll want an air mattress that’s easy to carry, especially if your campsite isn’t next to where you’ll park your vehicle. Some full- and queen-sized mattresses are incredibly compact while not in use. Still, if you’re hiking a great distance to get to your campsite, it’s best to get a thin, lightweight sleeping pad.
Lightweight air mattresses are the best option for backpacking. If you usually camp near your vehicle, you can get a heavier mattress, as they’re typically more comfortable. Still, lightweight mattresses can provide the comfort needed to alleviate back pain.
After traveling to your camping location, carrying your gear to the site and setting up your tent, you’ll likely want to explore or relax. Choosing an air mattress that’s easy to set up is an excellent way to speed up the process.
Many thicker mattresses inflate with the aid of an air pump. In most cases, larger mattresses take longer to inflate. Still, powerful pumps can inflate large air mattresses quickly. If the pump that comes with your mattress seems to take a while, you can always buy a stand-alone pump with more power.
Some air mattresses include internal pumps that inflate the mattress with the click of a button. These are ideal if you don’t want to waste space carrying a pump. Still, self-inflating mattresses often take longer to inflate since the internal pump is smaller than a traditional pump.
If you opt for a compact sleeping pad, you’ll likely be able to blow it up yourself in a few minutes. If you don’t want to use your mouth to inflate it, you may be able to use a foot pump.
Even if your mattress is durable, you may eventually need to patch it. Luckily, patching an air mattress hole with a repair kit is relatively easy.
First, you’ll need to locate the hole. To do this, you’ll want a spray bottle filled with soapy water. Inflate the mattress, listen for a leak and spray the area with soapy water. If you see bubbles forming, you’ve likely found the leak
Your repair kit should include polyvinyl chloride, or PVC, repair glue and PVC patches. If the hole is small, you’ll likely just need to apply the repair glue. On the other hand, larger spots may require PVC glue and a PVC patch.
A. Air mattresses can cause back pain and stiffness if you use them every night. Still, they are OK to use occasionally and are better for you than sleeping on the ground.
A. Most last around two to six years. If properly maintained, your air mattress may last up to eight years. Avoiding over-inflation is essential. Additionally, you shouldn’t rest on it while wearing jewelry, belts or other sharp items.
A. Many can hold around 400 pounds safely. Still, each one is different, so you’ll want to read the included manual carefully.
A. In most cases, this is caused by exceeding the recommended weight limit. In other cases, it could be due to varying temperatures. It gets colder at night, causing the air in the mattress to condense. If you’re camping in a location with frigid night-time temperatures, your mattress will likely be partially deflated by the time you wake up.
Intex Dura-Beam Deluxe Comfort Plush Air Mattress
This features an internal pump that makes it easy to set up. Many were surprised by its durability and comfort. It’s available in three thicknesses. It is relatively large when deflated but includes a carrying bag with straps for easy transport.
Coleman SupportRest Air Mattress
This tall air mattress keeps you high off the ground and away from bugs and moisture. It’s available in twin or queen sizes. It rolls into the attached bag when deflated, making it easy to take on the go.
Sold by Amazon and Home Depot
Klymit Insulated Static V Sleeping Pad
This is an excellent choice if you’re backpacking or want an incredibly compact mattress. It’s available in orange, red and tan. It only weighs 25 ounces when deflated and fits into a small bag. The V-shaped ribs help keep you centered while you sleep.
Sold by Amazon and Backcountry
It features a soft plush top and a double-sealed valve. It inflates and deflates quickly. It’s durable, and most people didn’t run into issues with it deflating while they slept.
Sold by Amazon, Home Depot and Backcountry
Etekcity Upgraded Camping Air Mattress
This includes a rechargeable pump and is backed by a two-year warranty. It only takes around five minutes to inflate. It’s made from thick, durable PVC.
Sold by Amazon
This compact sleeping mat has an internal foam pad for added comfort. It inflates automatically in around three minutes. Many said this was an ideal choice for tall people. The material helps keep you warm at night.
Sold by Amazon
Coleman Camping Cot, Air Mattress and Pump Combo
This is available in twin or queen sizes. The cot keeps you higher off the ground than an air mattress alone. Many said it was an ideal choice for alleviating back pain.
Sold by Amazon
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Cody Stewart writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
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