The best air mattresses in the UK 2023

The French attach great importance to comfort when buying a mattress. In this sense, the inflatable mattress is among the most appreciated. In addition to its practicality during outdoor activities, it also serves as an extra bed. But how to find the right model? To help you, here is our guide to the best air mattresses for this year.

Bestway Queen Aeroluxe 1
8/10

Best value for money

Bestway Queen Aeroluxe

The best air mattress in 2021

The Bestway Queen Aeroluxe sleeps 2. Its 46 cm thickness ensures maximum comfort. This inflatable mattress comes with an electric pump for easy inflation.

See the price

The Bestway Queen Aeroluxe was designed with material that gives it extra strength and durability. The very comfortable sleeping surface is like velvet, very soft to the touch. To inflate it, you will have at your disposal an electric air pump. In only 4 minutes, the mattress will have a satisfactory firmness.

Serving as both an extra bed and a camping bed, the Bestway Queen Aeroluxe promises peaceful nights. It has a safety valve for quick inflation and deflation. After each use, simply store it in its carry bag. Note that you will receive a repair kit with your purchase, which is very useful in case of a puncture or tear.

Intex Downy Classic 2
8/10

Best value for money

Intex Downy Classic

The best entry-level air mattress

In contrast to the previous versions, the new Intex Downy Classic is 25 cm thick. Thus, you will be able to install it directly under a camping tent. We like the reasonable price.

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For indoor or outdoor use, the Intex Downy Classic will provide the comfort you need with its horizontal cells. Thanks to its practical valve, you can inflate or deflate it in no time. This inflatable mattress is also very compact when folded. In fact, it can be stored and transported without difficulty.

Using Fiber Tech fibers and thick vinyl as a cover, the Intex Downy Classic provides enhanced support. While it weighs just 1 kg, this air mattress can support the weight of 2 people. And by 2 people, we mean 2 adults!

Therm-A-Rest Prolite 3
8/10

Best value for money

Therm-A-Rest Prolite

The best high-end air mattress

If you're looking for a really good air mattress, you'll find it with the Therm-A-Rest Prolite. It's perfect for outdoor activities like camping, hiking or trekking. A must have.

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You won't be disappointed with the comfort offered by the Therm-A-Rest Prolite despite its thickness of only 2.5 cm. You'll sleep very well on it, especially since it stands out from other air mattresses thanks to its mummy shape. Designed specifically for camping and a host of outdoor activities, this model offers impressive resistance to punctures and tears.

Compared to traditional air mattresses, the Therm-A-Rest Prolite can be considered very light, weighing in at just 500g. It has an R-Value of 2.4 and consists mainly of foam and nylon. Its textured top surface ensures excellent stability and support.

Intex Queen Raised 4
8/10

A great choice

Intex Queen Raised

A great electric air mattress for 2 people

In just 3 minutes, you'll have an air mattress ready to use for a good night's sleep. Made from cotton, polyurethane and vinyl, this Intex model is sturdy and comfortable.

See price

The Intex Queen Raised is an inflatable mattress for 2 people. It can be used as an extra bed or as a camping bed during your outings. Also, it comes with an electric pump that allows you to inflate it easily. Once deflated, this device will take up very little space in your closet or in your backpack. Moreover, a transport bag is provided for this purpose.

In terms of technical features, the Intex Queen Raised will fully satisfy your needs. Indeed, it embeds the Fiber Tech technology for a maximum solidity. The comfort of bedding results from its soft flocking and its integrated pillow.

Buying guide • November 2023

Best air mattress

Any specific needs?

The best air mattress in 2021

The best entry-level air mattress

The best high-end air mattress

A great electric air mattress for 2 people

Your guide : Samuel

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Comparison table of the best air mattresses

TOP OF THE TOP CHEAP TOP OF THE LINE EXCELLENT
Bestway Queen Aeroluxe 5
8/10
Intex Downy Classic 6
8/10
Therm-A-Rest Prolite 7
8/10
Intex Queen Raised 8
8/10
OUR SELECTION
Bestway Queen Aeroluxe
Intex Downy Classic
Therm-A-Rest Prolite
Intex Queen Raised
The Bestway Queen Aeroluxe sleeps 2. Its 46 cm thickness ensures maximum comfort. This inflatable mattress comes with an electric pump for easy inflation.
In contrast to the previous versions, the new Intex Downy Classic is 25 cm thick. Thus, you will be able to install it directly under a camping tent. We like the reasonable price.
If you're looking for a really good air mattress, you'll find it with the Therm-A-Rest Prolite. It's perfect for outdoor activities like camping, hiking or trekking. A must have.
In just 3 minutes, you'll have an air mattress ready to use for a good night's sleep. Made from cotton, polyurethane and vinyl, this Intex model is sturdy and comfortable.
Comfort is the name of the game
Very spacious
The lightest
Convenient and easy to inflate
Repair kit included
Lightweight and space-saving
Space saving
Double layer for comfort
Easy-to-use, double-layer mattress
Easy to inflate
Ultra compact and ultra light
Sturdy partitions

Help us improve this table:
Report an error, request the addition of a feature to the table, or suggest another product. Thank you for your kindness!

Buying guide - air mattress

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How to choose your air mattress

The quality of your sleep will depend on the choice of your air mattress. The use you will make of it is also a determining factor. Here are the main criteria to consider.

#1 - The comfort

An air mattress must be comfortable enough to guarantee a good quality of sleep. To this end, it is good to know that the material of the cover contributes to comfort. Choose a model with a cover made of soft fabrics such as laminated cotton, suede and velvet on the top. This way, you'll avoid tossing and turning and your sheets will stay in place. Also, if the air mattress has an even air distribution system, it will provide you with better support. Having a built-in pillow, finally, can be an added bonus.

#2 - Ease of assembly

Because you don't want to spend minutes on end setting up your air mattress, it should be easy to inflate and set up. Make sure the model you're interested in has a pump inflation system so you can inflate it quickly, especially if it's a twin mattress. Many air mattresses on the market have a valve that allows you to use an external pump. However, you'll also find models with a built-in electric pump for added convenience.

#3 - Type of use

You should also consider how you're going to use your air mattress before choosing it. If you want one for camping or hiking, a model that's small and light enough is ideal. On the other hand, if you're looking for an extra bed, which can also be used to accommodate your guests, you should opt for a double air mattress with a large thickness.

#4 - The dimensions

The

dimensions of the air mattress should match the size of the person who is going to use it, but the thickness is still the most important criteria. Most double air mattresses are between 40 and 56 cm

thick. For convenience, go for the maximum height, to make it easier to get in and out of the crib.

#5 - The interior structure

The quality of an air mattress also depends on its interior structure. For greater durability and maximum comfort, opt for a model that uses PVC fiber threads. Some air mattresses use the bulkhead system, which is less reliable, however.

How to use an air mattress?

As the name suggests, an air mattress is inflated with air. Generally, a pump is needed to set up a 2-person air mattress, while a 1-person air mattress can be inflated simply by blowing into it. Some camping mats can, however, inflate themselves by opening the valve.

For added convenience, many double air mattresses have a built-in electric pump. They can be inflated in less than 4 minutes. There are also models with a foot-operated inflation system. Others are only equipped with a valve for an external manual or electric pump. It is important to know that the inflation bags are not suitable for inflating a large air mattress.

When the air mattress is not in use, you can simply deflate it by opening the valve. To speed up the process, feel free to press down on the mattress. However, some air mattresses are equipped with a reversible system that allows you to deflate them as quickly as when they were inflated. When it is flat, you can then store your air mattress in its carrying bag.

As for the material, it varies from one brand to another. There are vinyl airbed models and PVC airbed models. Make sure that the bottom of the mattress is reinforced, as this part comes into direct contact with the ground. Finally, note that a puncture is always a possibility. To protect yourself from a leak, remember to equip yourself with a puncture-proof kit, especially if you are going on a camping trip.

Avoid exposing your air mattress to the sun

When you have finished cleaning your air mattress, place it in the open air, but avoid exposing it to direct sunlight, as this may cause it to deteriorate.

Which air mattress for which use?

An air mattress is both practical and versatile. Not only does it take up very little space when not in use, but it is also a great solution if you need extra bed space. At home, an air mattress can be used for:

  • As a comfortable extra bed for entertaining family or friends.
  • As an improvised sofa bed for relaxing on the terrace or in the garden.
  • As a traditional bed if your apartment is cramped.
  • As an emergency bed when you move.

As a nomadic bed, the air mattress lends itself to other occasions, such as camping and hiking. If you prefer to sleep in your vehicle while on the road, you can also opt for a car air mattress. This type of air mattress is designed to offer you the best comfort. It plugs directly into the cigarette lighter when you inflate it. And if you have a pool, there are air mattresses specifically designed for your relaxation sessions on the water.

Inflate your mattress before using it again

It is normal for your air mattress to lose some air after each night. Remember to reinflate it from time to time if you use it for several days in a row.

The different types of air mattresses

There are 3 main types of air mattresses on the market today. However, we will only mention the advantages and disadvantages of the 2 most popular categories, i.e. the mattress that can be used as an extra bed and the one suitable for camping.

Inflatable mattress as an extra bed

Usually used in a guest room, the air mattress saves you the clutter of a foam or spring mattress that will undoubtedly take up space. At night, you can simply take it out of its carry bag, inflate it and set it up. It usually comes with a built-in electric pump. If not, a manual air pump will do the trick.

Very comfortable, this type of bed offers a thickness ranging from 18 to 56 cm

. It can be deployed and stored with the greatest of ease. The inflation intensity can be modulated according to the desired level of comfort. Available in 1 or 2 places, there are also single models that can be glued together to form a single double mattress.

Inflatable mattress for camping

Are you

planning to go camping with your children, family or friends? Don't forget that an air mattress can very well be a very practical bed. Its thickness usually does not exceed 35 cm

so that it can slide easily into a tent. This type of mattress is often lighter and more compact, making it convenient to carry.

Some models can be quite thin (about 2.5 cm) as is the case with self-inflating mattresses. Many features can be integrated into your mattress, such as the anti-puncture option. Note that it has been specifically designed to withstand the most difficult conditions.

Inflatable pool mattress

As its name suggests, this type of mattress is intended for this use only. You can't use it as an extra bed or a camping bed. The lightest and thinnest most of the time, it only allows you to sunbathe and float in the middle of the pool.

Inflatable mattress or self-inflating mattress?

Inflatable mattress

By definition, an inflatable mattress is a piece of sleeping equipment that can be filled with air to serve as an extra bed at home or outside. The comfort is very good. It only takes a few minutes to deflate and can be stored in a cupboard or wardrobe.

Lightweight and much less bulky than the usual mattresses, it measures between 2.5 and 56 cm high. Whether designed for camping or home use, each model has a velour cover for added comfort. While some come with an electric pump, others are available alone or with a manual pump.

Self-inflating mattress

The self-inflating mattress is becoming increasingly popular with consumers. In addition to saving space, it can also be used as an extra bed or camping bed. Specifically designed for outdoor enthusiasts, this model guarantees a more comfortable sleep, wherever you install it.

The self-inflating mattress fills with air on its own. It protects you from the cold thanks to its thermal insulation capacity. Like a sleeping bag, the equipment warms you up and prevents you from direct contact with the cold and humidity of the ground. It does not require the use of a pump as you simply spread it out and wait for it to inflate by itself.

Verdict

As the self-inflating mattress is more expensive than the inflatable mattress, we recommend the latter for occasional use. You can use it as an extra bed to provide your guests with additional sleeping space. You can store it for up to 10 months without any problems. You can also take it with you when you travel.

On the other hand, a self-inflating mattress seems to be an excellent alternative if you often go exploring in the wild. The same is true if you plan to install a spare mattress in your guest room permanently. Moreover, this model takes up very little space in a camper van or 4 x 4.

Why buy an air mattress?

Functionality

An air mattress is useful in all circumstances. Whether you're entertaining family or friends, going on a hike, creating an extra bed or a comfortable bed in a small room, it's a valuable piece of equipment to have at home.

The price

Up to ten times cheaper than a traditional mattress, the inflatable mattress is an investment to make without hesitation.

Sturdiness

Contrary to popular belief, a good quality air mattress can last for years, even longer than a traditional mattress. You are investing in a product that you can use over time, as long as you take care of it according to the manufacturer's recommendations.

Practicality

Very small, light and easy to store, an air mattress does not require any special precautions. It can accompany you on your summer holidays or camping trips without taking up much space.

The comfort

The air mattress is relatively soft, which will remind you of the comfort of your foam or spring mattress. Appropriate for everyone's morphology, its flexibility and firmness can be adjusted according to your desires. It avoids you to feel the roughness of the ground during a use in the nature. The top of the range models even prevent back pain.

The best brands of air mattresses

In our opinion, the best brands of air mattresses in 2022 are :

Intex
Active Era
Bestway
Lunvon
Therm-a-Rest

The American brand Intex is the world leader in inflatable leisure products and above ground pools. Its inflatable mattresses incorporate innovative technologies such as Fiber Tech that provide unparalleled comfort.

Active Era is a British outdoor gear brand established in 2016. The brand has expanded its product range to include air mattresses. Active Era products are among the best in the market.

Founded in 1994 in Shanghai, the Bestway brand specializes in inflatable equipment for outdoor activities. Its products include Bestway air mattresses, known for their comfort and affordability.

Lunvon is a Chinese manufacturer of home accessories, and offers a range of air mattresses. Lunvon products are synonymous with quality.

Therm-a-Rest was founded in 1972 in the United States and introduced its very first self-inflating mattress model. Having been a huge success, the brand has expanded its line to include inflatable and foam models, but also other accessories such as cots or sleeping bags. Its inflatable mattresses are even considered to be the lightest in the world.

What is the price for an air mattress

The diagram below will help you to get an idea of the typical prices for each price range (entry-level, mid-range and high-end).

However, more expensive does not necessarily mean better.

We therefore advise you to always consult our ranking before deciding, rather than blindly relying on price ranges.

Entry-level
15 £ to 30 £
Mid-range
30 £ to 70 £
High-end
more than 70 £
Price range diagram

Tips

Be aware of your surroundings.

Be sure to place your air mattress where there is no debris that could tear and burst the mattress. If you are indoors, try vacuuming or sweeping before placing the mattress. If you are outside, make sure to remove any sharp twigs or stones. Excessive heat can also damage your air mattress, so be sure to stay away from radiators, heat vents, or campfires.

Inflate to the appropriate capacity.

It'

s important to keep your air mattress away from sharp objects, it's equally important to fill it with the right amount of air. An underinflated mattress creates an uneven weight distribution that can wear down the material and make it more vulnerable to puncture. Similarly, over-inflating your mattress will stress the seams and could cause an explosion.

Use bedding.

Good bedding is essential to making your air mattress more comfortable, but it will also extend its life. Pads and covers can help protect it from sharp objects and other hazards, such as pet scratches, while keeping the vinyl from wearing out.

Keep it clean.

Clean

your mattress when it's puffy using a cloth and soapy water (a few drops of liquid soap in a small tub of water may be enough). Avoid coarse bristle brushes or caustic chemicals like bleach and ammonia, and be sure to rinse well with clean water afterwards.

Store it well.

If

your air mattress has been exposed to water, be sure to dry it completely, ridding it of all dirt and dust. After deflating it, lay your mattress flat on the ground, fold it neatly, and place it in a sturdy container.

Sources

Note: Below are some of the sources we have consulted in writing this article. Links to other sites are not continuously updated. It is therefore possible that a link may not be found. Please use a search engine to find the desired information.
  1. , touslescanapes.com
  2. , matelas-gonflables.com
  3. , quechua.fr
  4. , blog-jardin.fr
  5. , ohmymag.com
  6. , cnews.fr
  7. , intex.fr
  8. , ideelogique.com
  9. , nytimes.com
  10. , smartsleepingtips.com
  11. , but.fr
  12. , decathlon.fr
  13. , amazon.co.uk
  14. , conforama.fr
  15. , darty.com
  16. , laredoute.fr
  17. , intex.fr
  18. , gifi.fr
  19. , dreamland.be
  20. , intex.fr
  21. , raviday-matelas.com
  22. , auchan.fr
  23. , livraison.gifi.fr
  24. , sommeil.org
  25. , raviday-matelas.com
  26. , sleeps.fr
  27. , campz.fr
  28. , lafoirfouille.fr
  29. , decathlon.be
  30. , amazon.co.uk
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Updates

March 2022 : Translation of this buying guide from our partner meilleurtest.fr

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Our selection
Bestway Queen Aeroluxe 9
Bestway Queen Aeroluxe
Intex Downy Classic 10
Intex Downy Classic
Therm-A-Rest Prolite 11
Therm-A-Rest Prolite
Intex Queen Raised 12
Intex Queen Raised

Lecteurs

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