The Best Air Mattresses That Offer Comfort And Convenience

Today’s best air mattresses are comfortable, easy to set up and won’t deflate overnight. (There’s nothing worse than waking up on the ground in the morning.) Luckily, the air mattresses out now are more advanced than their predecessors, featuring sturdy and comfortable designs. Our top pick is the Soundasleep Dream, which comes with a built-in pump that keeps the mattress inflated for days and a double-height chamber for extra cushioning that exceeds expectations.

The best air mattresses provide a comfortable place to sleep whether you’re hosting, camping or need ... [+] a portable bed.

But we have plenty of other great air mattress recommendations, depending on your budget and needs. Some are ideal to keep on hand for extra guests, while others are designed to be packed up for travel or camping. Doctor of physical and rehabilitative medicine Mara Vucich also shared some tips on how to make your air mattress set-up more comfy (and supportive). If you want an inflatable bed that can transform any space into a restful retreat, here are the best air mattresses on the market, according to our research and first-hand experience.

Best Air Mattress Overall

This Bestselling Air Mattress With A Built-In Air Pump

Amazon

Soundasleep Dream Series Air Mattress (Queen)

Dimensions: 80 x 60 x 19 inches | Size options: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king XL | Built-in pump: Yes | Mattress weight: 19 pounds | Weight capacity: 500 pounds

The Soundasleep Dream mattress is a Vetted staff favorite and Amazon bestseller with thousands of five-star reviews. It’s our overall pick for best air mattresses because of its built-in pump and high weight capacity. It has a dual, double-height chamber for extra cushioning and is built for durability with its extra-thick, waterproof-flocked top made of puncture-resistant PVC. And when it comes to setup, there’s no messing around: This mattress has a built-in air pump that inflates the sleep surface in 4 minutes or less. Want it firmer? Just click on the pump again to add more air.

What our writers says: “I purchased the Soundasleep air mattress in a panic during a move (my mattress had been delayed behind state lines). Since then, it has gotten me through copious house guests and a few more moves,” says Forbes Vetted deals writer Jordan Thomas. “My expectations were low—but not nonexistent. I was hoping for a mattress that was easy to set up, relatively comfortable and that wouldn’t leave me on the floor by morning. The Soundasleep hit it out of the park. It inflates quickly (and pretty quietly as well), is surprisingly comfortable and remains (mostly) inflated through the night. It also packs away nicely and slides right into my closet, for all of those space-conscious folks out there.”

Pros:

• Convenient built-in pump
• Compact and easy to store
• Quick inflation time

Cons:

• May gradually leak
• More expensive than other options on this list

Best Budget Air Mattress

A Fast-Inflating Option For Less Than $50

Walmart

Intex Dura Beam Standard Pillow Rest (Queen)

Dimensions: 80 x 60 x 10 inches | Size options: Twin, full, queen | Built-in pump: Yes | Mattress weight: 10 pounds | Weight capacity: 600 pounds

To be clear, we don’t recommend skimping on an air mattress you plan to have for more than a few months—by investing in a more durable (and typically expensive) model, you’ll likely save money in the long run. But if you need an air mattress stat and don’t want to spend more than $50, the Intex Dura Beam is your best bet. It’s got a velvety sleep surface plus the company’s own Fiber-Tech inner construction for stability and support, with a pillow rest for added comfort. When you’re done, simply set the mattress to deflate. Note that some users find the motor to be loud.

What the reviews say: “This is literally the best purchase I’ve made in a while,” says one reviewer. “The moment we first laid on this thing, we knew we chose the perfect air mattress. We got a queen size and inflating it was so easy. When it was time to take it down, we just turned the thing on the side to the minus sign and it deflated it in 3 minutes. I highly recommend purchasing this if you want a good quality inflatable bed for a great price.” Another writes: “It stays fully inflated for roughly a week of consistent use, then just needs a 10 second top off with some air and you’re set.”

Pros:

• Comfortable enough for two people
• Inflates/deflates quickly

Cons:

• Doesn’t have a carrying bag
• May not be durable enough for heavyweight sleepers or extended use

Best Air Mattress For Camping

A Comfortable, Year-Round Mattress That’s Easy To Inflate

MOST POPULAR

Backcountry

Big Agnes Captain Comfort Deluxe Camp Mattress (Double Wide/Regular)

Dimensions: 9 x 11 x 26.5 inches | Size options: Extra wide/long, double wide/regular, double wide/long | Built-in pump: Self-inflating | Mattress weight: 6.4 pounds | Weight capacity: N/A

This self-inflating air mattress from Big Agnes is so nice we named it “best” twice—it was crowned the overall winner in our best air mattresses for camping story. It features a 3D foam-core pad for extra cushioning and a thick polyester base layer for durability. To inflate and deflate, simply use the two-way pull tab. When it’s time to pack up, store the mattress in its handy pack sack for easy transport. The best part about the Big Agnes, though, is the 8+ R-value, which means excellent insulation against cold temperatures.

What the reviews say: “We've used it a couple nights in our tent and [it] made us wonder what we were doing for a decade before, using our previous crummy inflatable air mattresses,” says one reviewer. “Ramping up our quality of sleep system for our family has been a game changer. We have a shared family cabin that I'm considering buying a second mattress for so we don't have to carry this one across by boat every trip.”

Pros:

• Has a 3D foam-core pad for additional cushioning
• Big enough to fit two campers
• High R-Value to keep you warm
• Very lightweight

Cons:

• Not as compact (when packed up) after first use

Best Air Mattress For Guests

A Built-In Pillow And USB Ports Provide Visitors With Extra Convenience

Amazon

Sleeplux Durable Inflatable Air Mattress (Queen)

Dimensions: 80 x 60 x 22 inches | Size options: Twin, queen, king | Built-in pump: Yes | Mattress weight: 20 pounds | Weight capacity: 660 pounds

Thanks to a few smart add-ons, this pick from Sleeplux is extra convenient when it comes to hosting overnight guests. It’s designed with a built-in pillow and USB ports so visitors can pack light (and you won’t be left scrambling for a spare pillow or charger). It’s also equipped with a pump and comes with a carrying bag for easy set-up and storage.

It’s also worth noting that this air mattress is a top choice for those who sleep better on a firm bed. Multiple factors boost this bed's support. Two are its I-beam construction and a dense polyester mesh core that’s sandwiched between two strong layers of PVC that help the mattress keep its form and provide increased support, especially for the back and shoulders.

What the reviews say: “One of the more comfortable air mattresses we have owned,” says one reviewer who recounts the Sleeplux’s comfort. “First night's sleep and I wished this was my permanent bed,” writes another. “The mattress took exactly 5 minutes to fully inflate. As the manual advises, there will be some stretching as it gets your weight and body temperature. It just felt so snug.”

Pros:

• Built-in pump
• Built-in USB port makes charging devices easy
• Provides excellent back and shoulder support

Cons:

• Some find the built-in pump loud
• 22-inch height may be too tall for some

Best Air Mattress With Built-In Pump

An Air Mattress Designed To Keep Itself Inflated

Editor’s Pick

Amazon

Serta Raised Air Mattress With Never Flat Pump (Queen)

Dimensions: 78 x 60 x 18 inches | Size options: Full, queen | Built-in pump: Yes | Mattress weight: 21.7 pounds | Weight capacity: 500 pounds

Made by trusted mattress company Serta, this air mattress has a lot going for it. The feature that really sets it apart is a built-in dual air pump system. One pump inflates and deflates the mattress, while the other continuously monitors and quietly maintains your preferred air pressure during the night. A beveled rim provides some additional support. It’s covered by a 2-year warranty, and comes with a convenient storage bag.

What our editors say: According to Forbes Vetted’s executive director of commerce content and strategy, Cory Baldwin, “I’ve owned this mattress for a few years now, and it hasn’t let us down yet. Everyone who has ever slept on it has raved about it. After having to replace so many leaky air mattresses, I’m glad I finally found something reliable and comfy.”

Pros:

• Keeps itself inflated
• Easy to inflate/deflate with built-in pump
• Extra height makes getting on and off easy
• Has three firmness settings

Cons:

• On the expensive side
• Some customers find the pumps noisy

Best Adjustable Air Mattress

A Versatile Pick With A Handy Two-Pump System

Amazon

Enerplex 16-Inch Air Mattress With Built-In Pump (Queen)

Dimensions: 80 x 60 x 16 inches | Size options: Twin, full, queen, king | Built-in pump: Yes | Mattress weight: 12.2 pounds | Weight capacity: 600 pounds

If you have trouble getting that just-right level of firmness, this Enerplex air mattress is a great option. It has a two-pump system to help you get a perfect feel. The first pump is used to quickly inflate and deflate, while the second pump allows you to easily adjust the air pressure to either blow your mattress up more or lower the pressure. Best of all, it’s designed to feel like a real mattress, thanks to internal “beams” that create a strong and supportive foundation. Quilt-top flocking gives you a smooth feel and helps prevent those dreaded air mattress squeaks when you move. It’s also available in three height options: 13, 16 and 18 inches.

What the reviews say: “You feel like you’re on the closest thing to a real mattress,” shares one reviewer. “Every guest I’ve had has had a great sleep. I slept on this with my 80 pound dog and slept like a baby. I would buy this again in a second—everyone should have one of these on hand.” Another writes: “No one ever talks about the disassembly but it was super easy to plug it in, and in seconds the mattress was flat and easy to fold up and put away. It’s comfortable and easily stored.”

Pros:

• Firmness can be customized to your liking
• Available in three heights
• Can hold multiple people (or pets)

Cons:

• Some sleepers say it loses air quickly

Best Twin Air Mattress

A Sturdy Pick Made With Puncture-Resistant Vinyl

Amazon

Beautyrest Sensa-Rest Air Mattress (Twin)

Dimensions: 75 x 39 x 14 inches | Size options: Twin, full, queen, king | Built-in pump: Yes | Mattress weight: 12 pounds | Weight capacity: 700 pounds

This air mattress is designed to offer ample support and pressure relief with a “coil-in-coil” system. Like many of the picks on this list, it comes with a handy pump that can inflate or deflate the mattress in minutes. If you’re wondering about durability, this mattress has it. Not only can it hold weight of up to 700 pounds, the top surface is made of a thick, puncture-resistant fabric that makes it harder to rupture or tear. That same fabric also promotes air flow to keep you cool as you sleep, making this air mattress a great option for couples or people who run hot.

What the reviews say: “After using the long twin mattress for over one month, I have to say it’s excellent,” reports a reviewer. “The built-in pump makes inflating easy and deflates within minutes. I was tired of other models and the constant deflation while sleeping—I’ve experienced no air loss with this one.”

Pros:

• Can support higher weight, up to 700 pounds
• Automatically adjusts air pressure
• Available in multiple heights

Cons:

• May not be comfortable for people who prefer a firm mattress

Best Extra-Long Air Mattress

Get Additional Leg Room With An Inflatable California King

Amazon

King Koil Air Mattress 20-Inch (California King)

Dimensions: 84 x 72 x 20 inches | Size Options: Twin, queen, California king | Built-in pump: Yes | Mattress weight: 29.4 pounds | Weight capacity: 650 pounds

For taller folks in need of extra length, we recommend checking out the King Koil air mattress. Available in a California King size, this mattress measures 84 inches in length—four inches longer than the average queen-size air mattress. And thanks to a convenient built-in pump, this extra-long air mattress is an absolute breeze to inflate: All you have to do is flip a switch to inflate it, which happens in just 2 minutes. It also features a thick, sueded quilt top—not only for comfort, but also to help prevent your bed sheets from slipping off at night. When you’re ready to pack the mattress away, just turn the deflate knob and let it do all the work for you. If you somehow end up with a rip or puncture in the material, don’t fret—it comes with a handy patch kit (just in case).

What the reviews say: “My husband and I are both larger people and we slept comfortably together on the King Koil air mattress,” writes one buyer. “It’s quick, easy to setup and inflates in less than one minute. It had a slight chemical smell at setup, but I didn’t notice after I put sheets on it.” Reviewers also give this company high marks for customer service. “The beds are very very comfortable and if there is a problem contact them and they will most definitely take care of your complaints,” says another reviewer.

Pros:

• Available in three heights
• Waterproof
• Inflates in under 2 minutes
• Comes with a carry bag

Cons:

• More expensive in larger sizes
• Some sleepers say it loses air overnight
• Heavy

Best Air Mattress For Kids

A Portable Toddler Bed With Safety Bumpers

Amazon

Hiccapop Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed With Safety Bumpers

Dimensions: 62 x 39 x 12 inches | Size options: Crib-sized | Built-in pump: No | Mattress weight: 8 pounds | Weight capacity: 310 pounds

Traveling with toddlers and young kids requires a ton of preparation and equipment, especially if they still sleep in a crib or need a bed railing. This kid-sized air mattress has bumpers to help prevent little ones from rolling out of bed, and is portable enough to take on a road trip or airplane.

Most little kids wiggle around a lot in bed, which is why this inflatable bed is engineered with reinforced seams and durable vinyl, which the company claims is 40% thicker than comparable options. It can be used with most crib-size sheets, although the maker recommends stretchy jersey options. The mattress comes with an electric turbo pump that inflates the mattress in under 30 seconds and a carrying bag. Hiccapop offers a lifetime guarantee; if you experience damage or defects, you’re eligible for a replacement.

What our editors say: “This inflatable bed was an absolute lifesaver when my kids were toddlers,” writes senior parenting editor Rose Gordon Sala. “It’s a crucial travel item when they’re just too big for the pack and play but not quite ready for a big bed. The raised sides keep them from rolling out but also offer a crib-like sense of security for littles. This one inflates quickly and packs up small enough to tote along on trips. It’s sturdy, too, and we never experienced any middle-of-the-night deflating, tears or any other issues. It also works in a pinch for sleepovers with the cousins or other visitors.”

Pros:

• Lifetime guarantee
• Excellent customer service

Cons:

• Some mention a plastic smell right out of the box

Best Air Mattress Alternative

A Portable Pad That Never Deflates

Amazon

Best Choice Folding Portable Mattress (Twin)

Dimensions: ‎75 x 39 x 4 inches | Size options: Twin, full, queen | Built-in pump: No | Mattress weight: 14.5 pounds | Weight capacity: N/A

If an air mattress just doesn't work for you, this folding foam alternative may be a better bet. It’s ideal for people who share their home with pets that may puncture an inflatable bed or for anyone who doesn’t want to deal blowing up a mattress. The mattress almost no time to set up (just unfold it), and polyurethane foam provides a cushy sleep surface. The cover has zippers, so you can take it off an cleaning in the washing machine.

Because you don’t need to blow it up, there’s no concern about it deflating and you don’t need to plug in any kind of pump. When you’re done using it, it’s easy to fold up and put away in the included bag—however it is much more bulky than most rolled-up air mattresses. Also, since it’s only 4 inches tall, it may be harder for some people with mobility issues to get up from this mattress.

What our editors say: “After our cat clawed a hole in an otherwise high-end air mattress, I decided we needed something that would never deflate,” says Vetted editor Margaret Badore. “So far, our guests have all liked this folding mattress. You can also fold it up half way and use it as a floor cushion.”

Pros:

• Impossible to deflated
• Easy set up and take-down
• Machine washable cover

Cons:

• Needs more storage space
• Carrying case is somewhat flimsy

Why Trust Forbes Vetted

We’ve researched, tested and published dozens of sleep stories here at Forbes Vetted, so we tapped into our ample mattress knowledge to assemble this list. After all, a comfortable mattress is a comfortable mattress whether it’s filled with foam, springs or air.

This story is co-authored by Bre Richey and and Alison Barretta. Richey has nearly a decade of writing and editing experience, and covers sleep topics like the best futon mattresses and platform beds. Barretta also has a decade’s worth of experience, and researches all sorts of mattress content, including the best mattresses for side sleepers and mattress toppers for back pain.

We also consulted with Mara Vucich, D.O., a doctor of physical and rehabilitative medicine at Baltimore’s Mercy Medical Center. Vucich helped answer some frequently asked questions about air mattresses.

We regularly update this article for freshness and accuracy to ensure all of our recommendations are as current as possible. We last updated this story in October 2023.

How We Chose The Best Air Mattresses

To help you find the right air mattress for you, we looked into bestsellers and analyzed features like sturdiness, quality, comfort and ease of use. We only included products with an average rating of at least 4 out of 5 stars, plus we sifted through dozens of reviews to find potential pros and cons of each pick. We also asked our Vetted staff about their first-hand experiences with air mattresses. Our top choice, the Soundasleep Dream exceeded the expectations of staffer Jordan Thomas. The Serta Air Mattress With Never Flat Pump is backed by Cory Baldwin, our executive director of commerce content and strategy, and the Hiccapop Toddler Travel Bed earned high praise from senior parenting editor Rose Gordon Sala.

We also chose air mattresses designed for different occasions. For hosting week-long houseguests, an air mattress like the Soundasleep Dream is ideal since it's made with extra thick and durable PVC. Whether you need an inflatable mattress for sleeping in a tent outside or offering better accommodations for guests, our variety of options ensures that readers across the board can find the best air bed for their needs, lifestyles and budgets.

What To Consider When Shopping For An Air Mattress

Pump Types

The two main types of air mattress pumps are internal and external. Each have a few distinct benefits and drawbacks.

• Internal pumps: This is type of pump, which is incorporated into the mattress, is most popular. Internal pumps typically inflate a mattress fully in a few minutes with just the flip of a switch. They can also speed up the deflating process. While built-in pumps are effortless, quick and save you from manual inflation, they come with a couple potential inconveniences. First, they require electricity. (However, there are a few tools you can use if you don’t have access to an outlet, including a power inverter, generator or battery pack.) Keep in mind that you often can’t use a different electric pump or manual pump on this type of air mattress. Replacing a built-in pump is much more difficult if an issue arises, as well. Most companies warranties should cover issues in this realm for a period of time.
• External pumps: These pumps aren’t built into the mattress—they’re a separate unit. They can be manual, electric or battery-operated. Fortunately, many inflatable beds that require an external pump include it in the box. If you anticipate using the mattress when you don’t have access to electricity, external foot pumps or battery-operated options are the best and most convenient option.

Inflation Time

Although each air mattress is different, inflation should happen within a few minutes—normally no more than 10. Just be sure to check the manufacturer’s instructions on the label, as this typically tells you how long the mattress takes to inflate.

Weight Limit

All inflatable beds have a weight limit. The weight an air mattress supports boil down to two factors: size and construction.

For instance, the average weight limit of a twin air mattress built to support one body is around 300 pounds, while a queen jumps to about 600 pounds, or approximately 300 per side. When you’re looking at the construction of an air mattress, a thicker bed made of PVC and vinyl can hold more weight than a thin option. Manufacturers generally advertise their products weight limits, so you can easily look at those before making a decision.

Height

Air mattresses of the past sat lower to the ground, but today’s models let you sleep much higher—some are as tall as a traditional boxspring mattress. Air mattresses that are higher off the ground tend to be more comfortable and take less effort to get on and off. The tallest air mattress on our list measures 22 inches in height, but a good rule of thumb is to look for one that’s at least 18 inches tall.

That said, air mattresses that are closer to the ground do have some positives. They’re easier to roll up and store since there's less material, making them lighter and better for travel.

Surface Material

If you decide to forgo sheets, the material on the top of the mattress becomes a crucial factor in your search for the best air mattress. Most air beds (including all of the options on our list) have a flocked fabric top, which is a suede-like material that provides a more comfortable feel so you aren’t sleeping directly on plastic. Plus, it keep your sheets in place if you do decide to use them.

Warranty

Most air mattresses designed for adult use have at least a 1 or 2-year warranty, which is helpful when accidents or defects occur. However, because kids products often endure more wear and tear, we recommend looking for something with a longer warranty. Some models, like the Hiccapop Inflatable Toddler Bed, offer a lifetime guarantee.

Price

Most air mattresses range in price from $30 to $200. A higher price tag normally comes with more features like USB ports, a built-in pump and extra height. Before deciding on the right air mattress for you, figure out what features are worth splurging on.

How To Make Your Air Mattress Set-Up More Comfortable

While an air mattress may not fit your idea of comfort, there are a handful of accessories and tactics you can to do ensure you get a great—and comfortable—night’s sleep. (Who knows, you may end up preferring your air mattress over your at-home bed after trying a few of these tips.)

Along with making sure your mattress is inflated to a firm level, Vucich says that your alignment and positioning when you sleep can make a big difference. “If you’re sleeping on your back, you may want to have a flatter pillow to fill in that lordosis in your neck,” she says. “If you’re on your side, you need a thicker pillow to make up the space between your ear and your shoulder.” She also suggests putting a pillow between your knees when you sleep on your side to keep your spine in a comfortable position.

In addition, marshmallowy mattress toppers, supportive pillows and sumptuous bed sheets can all contribute to a cozier sleep experience.

How Much Do Air Mattresses Cost?

Like traditional mattresses, air mattress range in price depending on the style. The more features and qualities an air mattress has, the higher the price. A model like the Intex Dura Beam is about 10 inches tall, comes with a built-in pump and costs under $50. A nice middle-of-the-road option that can be used for guests, the Sleeplux has a built-in pillow, USB ports for charging and is priced at $75. For a premium air mattress experience, an extra-long model like the King Koil air mattress comes in various height options and includes ample cushioning and a built-in pillow, but it’ll cost you (a queen-size runs $130). Air mattresses designed for camping and loaded with technical materials, like the Big Agnes Captain Comfort Deluxe can cost close to $300.

How Long Does An Air Mattress Last?

Air mattresses can last a few years or close to a decade, but longevity depends on how often you use your air mattress and how you take care of it. Balling it up and throwing it in a closet might not be the best to help it last over the years. Gently removing the air, and neatly folding and placing it in a storage bag help prolong its life. Avoid storing it in areas that experience temperature extremes, like an uninsulated attic. Ultimately if you use an air mattress often and it gets a lot of wear and tear, the life expectancy is shorter.

Is It Okay To Sleep On An Air Mattress Every Night?

Technically yes, although many air mattress manufacturers say their products are not designed to be used every night. That said, there isn’t really any data to show which type of mattress is best for your back, inflatable or otherwise, according to Vucich.

“It really comes down to the position that your neck and back are in when you're lying down on any mattress,” she says. Your neck and lower back have a natural curve (called a lordosis) and maintaining that alignment “will result in less pressure and pain on your neck and lower back,” she says. And yes, she adds, this is also true on an air mattress too.

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More Sleep Stories To Shop

After researching dozens of air mattresses and testing seven, we think the SoundAsleep Dream Series Air Mattress won’t let you down. Its robust built-in pump, bedlike sleep surface, and reliable warranty make it the one to choose for guests.

You’ll quickly know when you’ve got a crappy air mattress—whether it has a slow, steady sink from a leak or a sputtering pump that calls it quits before the job is done.

Like our top pick, this mattress is comfortable and remained firm for 48 hours, but the company’s customer service gets mixed reviews.

Our top pick since 2016, it has the best combination of comfort, customer service, availability, and owner satisfaction of any mattress we tested—and it has the quietest motor.

We found that air mattresses under $60 usually lack in quality and comfort; anything over $150 had unnecessary extra features.

Air mattresses are notoriously prone to failure, so good customer service and a decent warranty are essential.

An air mattress will never be as comfortable as a real one, but at the very least it should hold air and not deflate overnight.

We only looked at mattresses with built-in electric pumps, since they are the easiest to inflate and deflate.

There’s no such thing as a perfect air mattress, but we’ve been testing the SoundAsleep Dream Series Air Mattress since 2016, and it still holds air after many, many uses.

It was among the most comfortable air mattresses we tried (it didn’t deflate noticeably in the night and so provided better back support), and you can control the level of inflation.

This 19-inch-tall mattress comes in twin, twin XL, full, queen, and king sizes. And the SoundAsleep’s built-in pump was quieter than any other mattress motor we tried—this is a perk if you don’t want to wake sleeping children (or if you’re sensitive to noise).

In case the pump breaks or the mattress springs a leak, SoundAsleep also offers responsive customer service and a one-year warranty.

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The King Koil Luxury Air Mattress (20-inch) was comfortable to sleep on and, like our top pick, holds air overnight without needing to be re-inflated.

The pump inflates or deflates the mattress in about 3 minutes, and we found it easy to re-pack inside the included tote bag.

In previous years, the King Koil mattress lost a significant amount of air overnight, but the company told us it has redesigned the mattress, and the improvements were noticeable. However, its customer service record is spotty: Our phone calls resulted in prompt callbacks, but emails sent to service@kingkoilairbeds.com often went unanswered. (We recommend purchasing through the Amazon storefront so that you have recourse to the 30-day return window in case anything goes wrong.) We’ll keep an eye on durability and customer service while we continue testing the King Koil mattress.

Bear in mind this mattress has a designated “top” of bed with a slightly elevated built-in pillow, which means you may not be able to get the power cord close to an outlet if you are using it in a tight space.