We go camping to enjoy a superior experience with nature, but that doesn’t mean we should sleep on the hard, freezing ground all night. Having a good night’s sleep will help you maintain good health so you can do more adventures.
With that in mind, today, we have compiled a comprehensive guide to show you how to choose the most comfortable camping beds to sleep on.
Here are the most comfortable camping beds (Nov 2024 Update):
- Best Overall (Inflatable Camping Beds): Intex Dura-Beam Standard Single-High Airbed Series
- Best For Seniors (Inflatable Camping Beds): EnerPlex Never-Leak Single Camping Series Queen Camping Airbed
- Best For Summer (Inflatable Camping Beds): Nifusu SUV Air Mattress Camping Beds
- Easy To Set Up (Inflatable Camping Beds): AeroBed Air Mattress
- Best Overall (Camping Cots): Coleman ComfortSmart Cot
- Best For Large-Framed Campers (Camping Cots): Coleman Camping Cot
- Most Durable (Camping Cots): TETON Sports Outfitter XXL Camping Cot
- Best For Heavier Campers (Camping Cots): ALPHA CAMP Oversized Camping Cot Sleeping Bed
- Best Overall (Foam Pads): TETON Sports Adventurer Camp Pad
- Best For Rocky Terrain (Foam Pads): Willpo Certipur-US-Mattress
- Ultra Lightweight (Foam Pads): Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Original Ultralight Foam Camping Pad
- Best For Light Sleepers (Foam Pads): Milliard Tri Folding Mattress
| 12 Most Comfortable Camping Beds | ||
|---|---|---|
Best Overall | Intex Dura-Beam Standard Single-High Airbed Series
| |
Best For Seniors | EnerPlex Never-Leak Single Camping Series Queen Camping Airbed
| |
Best For Summer | Nifusu SUV Air Mattress Camping Beds
| |
Easy To Set Up | AeroBed Air Mattress
| |
Best Overall | Coleman ComfortSmart Cot
| |
Best For Large-Framed Campers | Coleman Camping Cot
| |
Most Durable | TETON Sports Outfitter XXL Camping Cot
| |
Best For Heavier Campers | ALPHA CAMP Oversized Camping Cot Sleeping Bed
| |
Best Overall | TETON Sports Adventurer Camp Pad
| |
Best For Rocky Terrain | Willpo Certipur-US-Mattress
| |
Ultra Lightweight | Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Original Ultralight Foam Camping Pad
| |
Best For Light Sleepers | Milliard Tri Folding Mattress
| |
Best Overall (Inflatable Camping Beds): Intex Dura-Beam Standard Single-High Airbed Series
- Offer more supportive, stable, and durable than traditional airbeds - Fiber-Tech construction
- Strong – a weight capacity of 600 pounds
- Comfortable – the velvety sleeping surface
- Budget-friendly
- Not hold air as well as others
- The material stretches a bit
The Intex Dura-Beam Standard Single-High Airbed Series surprised us with how much we enjoy it.
It is lightweight, comfortable, and can inflate/deflate within 10 minutes. The Fiber-Tech construction combined with high-strength polyester fiber makes it more supportive, stable, and durable than traditional airbeds.
Besides, it can hold up to a maximum weight of 600 pounds. The velvety sleeping surface is a bonus for enhancing your experience.
| Intex Dura-Beam Standard Single-High Airbed Series Specifications | |
|---|---|
Weight | 7.3 Pounds |
Inflated Dimensions | 54 x 10 x 75 inches (w x H x L) |
Materials | Polyester fiber |
Inflation/Deflation Time | 5-10 minutes |
Weight Limit | 600-Pound |
Highlight Features | Fiber-Tech construction The weight capacity of 600 pounds Velvety sleeping surface |
Designed with revolutionary, patented technology, the Intex Dura-Beam Standard Single-High Airbed Series set a new standard for incredible night’s sleep. Out of a bunch, it’s the best overall option!
Best For Seniors (Inflatable Camping Beds): EnerPlex Never-Leak Single Camping Series Queen Camping Airbed
- Time-saving – inflation time is 90 seconds
- Give custom-fit and firmness - custom coil-beam technology
- Safe – 9” low-profile design
- It has a very chemical smell
- Take time to get back to its original shape after you sleep on the airbed overnight
Buy the EnerPlex with peace in mind as it’s not only backed by a 2-year warranty but also a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Fans of this airbed give lots of compliments for its fast inflation (only 90 seconds) and leak-free during the use.
With this, you won’t wake up the next morning finding out your mattress has lost ¼ of its inner air like the lower-end options. The best part is you can adjust the bed’s firmness based on your preference.
The custom coil-beam technology gives you the best experience just like you’re sleeping on a read bed. Meanwhile, its 9-inch height is safe for everyone, whether seniors or children.
| EnerPlex Never-Leak Single Camping Series Queen Camping Airbed Specifications | |
|---|---|
Weight | 12.52 pounds |
Inflated Dimensions | 80 x 60 x 9 inches |
Materials | puncture-resistant PVC |
Inflation/Deflation Time | 90 seconds |
Weight Limit | 250 pounds |
Highlight Features | inflation time is 90 seconds custom coil-beam technology 9” low-profile design |
Designed with your safety, convenience, and experience in mind, the EnerPlex Never-Leak Single Camping Series Queen Camping Airbed is our pick for seniors.
Best For Summer (Inflatable Camping Beds): Nifusu SUV Air Mattress Camping Beds
- Cool and breathable - PVC flocking surface and upgraded double-sided polymer material
- Heavy-duty – the weight capacity of 551 pounds
- Easy to fit most scenes or vehicles – feature six separate airbags
- A bit pricey
We believe the Nifusu SUV Air Mattress Camping Bed is perfect for summer night’s sleep because of its upgraded double-sided polymer material supporting a temp range of 23°F to 122°F.
In addition to the PVC flocking surface, it is also skin-friendly, cool, and breathable.
What sets it apart from the competition is its six separate airbags with a weight capacity of 551 pounds.
They pair well with SUV cars for the back seat and trunk use, which is perfect for up to three adults to use. Particularly, no leak!
| Nifusu SUV Air Mattress Camping Beds Specifications | |
|---|---|
Weight | 7.1 Pounds |
Inflated Dimensions | 69 * 51 * 4 in |
Materials | PVC |
Inflation/Deflation Time | 10 minutes |
Weight Limit | 551 lbs. |
Highlight Features | PVC flocking surface and upgraded double-sided polymer material The weight capacity of 551 pounds Feature six separate airbags |
The Nifusu SUV Air Mattress Camping Bed is our most favorite choice for summer camping trips because of its superb breathability.
Easy To Set Up (Inflatable Camping Beds): AeroBed Air Mattress
- Fast and easy to set up – 5-minute inflation & a built-in auto-shutoff air pump
- Easy to get in/out - 20” height
- Great support - coil construction
- Expensive
If a complicated setup is one of the reasons for stopping you from buying an airbed, this is the best solution.
Its minimal construction featuring 5-minute inflation/deflation and a built-in auto-shutoff air pump will make the assembly like a breeze. This new design also keeps you away from two other hassles – lose the pump and the manufacturer forgets to ship it.
One thing about this airbed that tall campers will like is its 20” height for easy getting in/out. Meanwhile, the coil construction enhances its support.
It is crafted of high-grade PVC with a brushed polyester top that’s specifically treated for good resistance to fungus, mildew, mold, and odors. This material is also puncture-free and lightweight.
| AeroBed Air Mattress Specifications | |
|---|---|
Weight | 18.4 pounds |
Inflated Dimensions | 78 x 39 x 20 in. |
Materials | PVC |
Inflation/Deflation Time | 5 minutes |
Weight Limit | 300 lb. |
Highlight Features | 5-minute inflation & a built-in auto-shutoff air pump 20” height Coil construction |
Some campers require nothing on their airbed but just the ease of assembly. For them, we suggest the AeroBed Air Mattress.
Best Overall (Camping Cots): Coleman ComfortSmart Cot
- Hold up well and durable – made of strong steel frame
- Great support - thick foam mattress + coil suspension system
- Ideal for various sleeping styles – flat design
- Not for tall people
This affordable, reliable, and comfortable camping cot by Coleman is one that we would suggest to our campers anytime they ask us for.
It is made of a strong steel frame covered by a foam mattress pad, measured by 69” x 25” and ideal for user height up to 5’7”. The thick foam mattress combined with a coil suspension system gives you superior support, which feels like you’re lying on a real bed.
The flat design allows you to sleep easily on your stomach or on your sides. Besides, the assembly/disassembly of this camping cot is very simple. It also holds up well.
| Coleman ComfortSmart Cot Specifications | |
|---|---|
Weight | 21.5 pounds |
Inflated Dimensions | 69 x 25 x 15 inches |
Materials | foam and steel |
Weight Limit | 275 pounds |
Highlight Features | Made of strong steel frame Thick foam mattress + coil suspension system Flat design |
If you’re looking for a huge upgrade from air mattresses, the Coleman ComfortSmart Cot is your best bet.
Best For Large-Framed Campers (Camping Cots): Coleman Camping Cot
- Ideal for campers with height up to 6’6”, weighing under 300 pounds – the measurement of 80 x 44 x 17 in.
- Keep your essentials at hand – a detachable sided table and a cup holder
- Comfortable to sit, sleep, or recline – various incline adjustments
- Make noise
- Heavy
The Coleman Camping Cot is specifically manufactured for “real” sized adults who weigh under 300 pounds with height up to 6’6”.
It is measured by 80 x 44 x 17 inches while the frame is heavy-duty steel. The biggest selling point about this camping cot is its various adjustments for your comfort no matter if you want to sleep, recline, or sit.
Another notable thing is the additional, detachable cup holder and sided table for keeping your essentials at hand.
The included carrying bag comes in handy when it’s not in use and for transportation. Last but not least, it’s backed by a 1-year limited warranty.
| Coleman Camping Cot Specifications | |
|---|---|
Weight | 20 Pounds |
Inflated Dimensions | 80 x 44 x 17 in. |
Materials | steel |
Weight Limit | 300 lbs. |
Highlight Features | Measurement of 80 x 44 x 17 in. A detachable sided table and a cup holder Various incline adjustments |
Built with durability and providing extra sleeping room, the Coleman Camping Cot with Side Table is a flawless choice for large-framed campers.
Most Durable (Camping Cots): TETON Sports Outfitter XXL Camping Cot
- Offer step-up stability and durability level - reinforced steel S-legs
- Strong – the weight capacity of 600 pounds
- The attachable organizer is only so-so
- The end bars don’t lock in place
Most camping cots collapse on themselves when you try to move them, which is a real annoyance for some campers. If you’re like them – in need of something stronger and more durable, the TETON Sports Outfitter XXL is worth investing in.
Its stability and durability are next-level compared to other counterparts so sleeping on it overnight is very reliable. That is a big thank you to the reinforced steel S-legs.
Due to the manufacturer, it can handle a max load of 600 pounds and the larger size makes it comfortable for large sleepers. Its durability is also backed by TETON through their excellent warranty and guarantee policies.
| TETON Sports Outfitter XXL Camping Cot Specifications | |
|---|---|
Weight | 26 pounds |
Inflated Dimensions | 85 x 19 x 40 inches |
Materials | Reinforced steel & 600D Oxford canvas |
Weight Limit | 600 pounds |
Highlight Features | Reinforced steel S-legs The weight capacity of 600 pounds |
If durability is your top concern when looking for a camping bed, look no further than the TETON Sports Outfitter XXL.
Best For Heavier Campers (Camping Cots): ALPHA CAMP Oversized Camping Cot Sleeping Bed
- Robust and beefy – the loading weight capacity of 600 pounds, steel frame, and 600D x 300D Oxford fabric
- Lightweight – the weight of 14 pounds
- Easy to install - foldable shock-cord pole construction
- Wish it was larger
- No padding
The ALPHA CAMP is a more affordable option for those campers who want a durable camping cot without breaking the bank. It is nearly ½ the price of TETON Sports Outfitters but still features a strong steel frame and long-lasting 600D x 300D Oxford fabric.
That makes it easily holds up well a maximum loading weight of 600 pounds.
One remarkable feature of this camping cot is its incredible lightness – only 14 pounds, and it is very easy to assemble/disassemble thanks to the foldable shock-cord pole construction.
The size is comfortable for people under 6’3” tall.
| ALPHA CAMP Oversized Camping Cot Sleeping Bed Specifications | |
|---|---|
Weight | 14 pounds |
Inflated Dimensions | 74.8 x 26.4 x 13.8 inches |
Materials | 600D x 300D Oxford fabric & steel |
Weight Limit | 600 lbs. |
Highlight Features | The loading weight capacity of 600 pounds, steel frame, and 600D x 300D Oxford fabric The weight of 14 pounds Foldable shock-cord pole construction |
Featuring the weight capacity of 600 pounds, along with many other highlights, the ALPHA CAMP Oversized Camping Cot is great for heavier campers.
Best Overall (Foam Pads): TETON Sports Adventurer Camp Pad
- A perfect three-season foam pad - added with a layer of insulation
- Easy to clean – canvas shell
- Simple storage - built with roll-up straps and compression buckles
- Slightly lack support
Not only lightweight, comfortable, and easy to use but the TETON Sports Adventurer Camp Pad is also well-insulated for cooler weather use. it is added with a layer of insulation for extra warmth and comfort.
Meanwhile, the outer shell is made of canvas which easily slips off for simple maintenance.
If you’re wondering about how easy it is to store, then rest the heart. It is built with roll-up straps and compression buckles.
| TETON Sports Adventurer Camp Pad Specifications | |
|---|---|
Weight | 4.25 pounds |
Inflated Dimensions | 75" x 24" x 2" |
Materials | foam & steel |
Weight Limit | 600 lbs. |
Highlight Features | Added with a layer of insulation Canvas shell Built with roll-up straps and compression buckles |
The TETON Sports Adventurer Camp Pad stands out from other candidates due to its best overall performance.
Best For Rocky Terrain (Foam Pads): Willpo Certipur-US-Mattress
- Safe and easy to clean - Certipur-US tested foam & removable machine-washable cover and sheet
- Dry and breathable - soft velboa sheet + TPU coating
- Support and comfortable - 2.75” ultra-thick foam layers
- Slightly overpriced
- Bulky
The Willpo Certipur-US-Mattress is a sturdy little workhorse.
Aside from the comfortable, supportive foam padding that is Certipur-US tested for safety, it boasts a durable zippered cover and a durable waterproof and non-slip sheet.
This component is made of special soft velboa and TPU coating which efficiently keeps you dry yet breathable while sleeping outdoors. Besides, the 2.75” ultra-thick layers (including 2/3 high-density base support foam and 1/3 memory foam) deliver superior support, even if you’re sleeping on rocky terrain or suffering back pain.
The good news is this sheet can be removed for easy cleaning and it’s also machine-washable.
| Willpo Certipur-US-Mattress Specifications | |
|---|---|
Weight | 7.7lb. |
Inflated Dimensions | 72*24*2.37" |
Materials | foam |
Weight Limit | 250 pounds |
Highlight Features | Certipur-US tested foam & removable machine-washable cover and sheet Soft velboa sheet + TPU coating 2.75” ultra-thick foam layers |
The Willpo Certipur-US-Mattress is a strong contender for rocky terrain.
Ultra Lightweight (Foam Pads): Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Original Ultralight Foam Camping Pad
- Offer extra warmth - R-Value is 1.7 & dimple-shaped design
- Lightweight and easy to pack – compact folded dimensions, the weight of 14 ounces, and folding accordion-style design
- Enhance insulation, protection, and sturdiness – dense bottom foam layer
- Provide very minimal cushion
- Wish it was smaller for long-term expenditures in the mountain
The Therm-a-Rest Z Lite is USA-made, which ensures quality.
It is the most lightweight foam pad here, weighing only 14 ounces. Yet, it is very comfortable, durable, and warm for winter use. The secret lies in its design along with various dimples for heat capturing and trapping for extra warmth (R-Value is 1.7).
The foam gives a denser feeling on the bottom and softer on the top, which enhances the insulation, protection, and sturdiness, even if placed on rough surfaces.
A big bonus is this foam pad is very easy to pack and transport thanks to its packable construction and compact folded dimensions, all thanks to the folding accordion-style design.
| Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Original Ultralight Foam Camping Pad Specifications | |
|---|---|
Weight | 14 ounces |
Inflated Dimensions | 72 x 20 inches |
Materials | closed-cell foam |
Weight Limit | 200 pounds |
Highlight Features | R-Value is 1.7 & dimple-shaped design Compact folded dimensions, the weight of 14 ounces, and folding accordion-style design The dense bottom foam layer |
The Therm-a-Rest Z Lite should be in your backpack or car trunk if lightness is your thing when choosing a camping bed.
Best For Light Sleepers (Foam Pads): Milliard Tri Folding Mattress
- Safe and reliable - premium CertiPUR-US certified foam
- Great shape retention - high-density construction
- Easy to pack – folded dimensions of 25” x 25” x 12”
- Simple maintenance - a removable jacquard ultra-soft cover
- Costly
- A bit narrow
The Milliard Tri Folding Mattress gives lighter campers enough comfort, support, and warmth to use during three seasons of camping.
It is made of three pounds of premium CertiPUR-US certified foam, along with high-density construction for both superior shape retention and sleeping experience. The flat design makes it versatile for most sleeping styles.
When not in use, just fold the bed up and it’ll be a compact, easy-to-pack item measured only by 25” x 25” x 12”.
Besides, it comes with a removable jacquard ultra-soft cover for promoting your experience. The anti-slip bottom also comes in handy for outdoor use.
| Milliard Tri Folding Mattress Specifications | |
|---|---|
Weight | 11.13 pounds |
Inflated Dimensions | 75 inches x 25 inches x 4 inches |
Materials | Foam Construction |
Weight Limit | 200 pounds |
Highlight Features | Premium CertiPUR-US certified foam High-density construction Folded dimensions of 25” x 25” x 12” A removable jacquard ultra-soft cover |
The Milliard Tri Folding Mattress is an exceptional option when you’re a light sleeper in need of something comfortable, lightweight, safe, and easy to pack.
How To Choose The Most Comfortable Camping Bed?
Types
When shopping for a camping bed, you need to decide which type of bed you want.
Sleeping bags: these are traditional methods but uncomfortable at all. But you can still use them in addition to a camping bed for more warmth.
Inflatable beds: these beds either require an air compressor or self-inflate. They give you a comfortable area to sleep but can be heavy and bulky. Also, avoid ground with sharp objects.
Cots: this type of bed is raised, making it suitable for wet and cold weather. These beds are also portable and easy to fold, requiring small storage space. But they have weight limits.
Sleeping mats: these are foam liners that you put beneath the sleeping bag to add more comfort. They are good at absorbing rocks and hard surfaces. There are different thicknesses to choose and you can roll them up for storage. This is a very good choice for camping provided that you choose high quality, thick mats.
Insulation
Insulation is one of the most important factors that make the best camping bed. It’s indicated in the R rating and should be chosen based on your own preference.
The higher the rating, the more thermal resistance you get, hence more warmth during the night.
It’s worth noting that more expensive camping beds often have a higher R rating and keep you warmer.
Materials and Frame
When looking into materials, you should consider how long-lasting and waterproof the bed is. Go with a fabric that has a higher denier, meaning more durability and water resistance. Here are several options you have:
Nylon: it’s thin and lightweight, suitable for backpacking. Mostly used for hiking mats.
Polyester: incredibly waterproof, used for fold-out mats and beds.
Poly-cotton: deliver more breathability than polyester, more strength, and less weight than cotton. Also waterproof.
Besides, the frame of a camping bed determines its weight, its life span, and whether it wobbles if you turn and toss.
When considering the frame, you need to check if the legs are thick and sturdy. Also, opt for cross-over legs because they are sturdier. And the best material for the frame is powder-coated steel as it’s long-lasting and rust-resistant.
Size
Choosing the size, involving height and width, is probably the easiest part since you just have to consider how many people will sleep on it and how much space you need for comfort.
Depending on your specific needs, you can choose among a single bed, double bed, large single bed, queen bed, or even bunk bed.
Which Brands Make The Most Comfortable Camping Bed?
Intex
With over 50 years of experience in the industry, this brand makes a wide range of products for outdoor activities. Here, you will find a camping bed with the highest quality but affordable price.
AeroBed
Founded 25 years ago, this brand specializes in an air mattress. Each of its products delivers innovation, style, quality, and convenience.
Coleman
Founded in 1900, this brand has had a really long history in the business. It offers a lot of products for camping that are great for both individuals and the entire family.
TETON
Among various camping products, this 15-year-old brand offers camping beds with the aim of encouraging outdoor activities. If you shop here, you will be able to get a product that satisfies everyone.
FAQs
How much are camping beds?
Depending on the type, brand, and model, a camping bed’s price can range from over $10 to nearly $200.
How can I make my camping beds more comfortable?
First of all, you can use a sleeping bag in addition to the bed. You should not overdress and remember to wear dry clothes before sleeping. You can also add padding or a memory foam mattress topper for more comfort.
Are camping beds good for daily use?
If you have to, you can still use them for daily use, an air mattress for example, but they cannot be as comfortable as a regular bed after all.
Although there are many upgraded models nowadays, we still don’t recommend sleeping overnight and daily on a camping air bed because it lacks support – which could lead to back pain and stiffness.
Are camping beds easy to clean?
It’s fairly easy if you clean it on a regular basis or every time you come back from the trip. Camping beds can be cleaned with soap and water, you can use baking soda to remove stubborn stains and odor.
How fast can a camping bed set up and pack down?
It should take you only a few minutes to set up the bed and pack it down. For airbeds, it is usually within 5 to 7 minutes while other types (like foam pads and camping cots) are a bit longer, 10 minutes.
How long can camping beds last?
A quality inflatable bed can last for 10-15 years. Meanwhile, a cot can last for 5 years at most.
Are self-inflating mattresses any good?
Self-inflating mattresses deliver several benefits. They are comfortable and well-insulated that keep you warm during the night. Not to say that self-inflating mattresses are very packable so storage isn’t a big problem for it.
Compared to other types, airbeds are lightweight, usually under 2.2 pounds – similar to a Yoga mat. Lastly, they’re made of heavy-duty materials, which means for less chance of punctures.
How do you store a self-inflating mattress?
The best way of storing it is keeping it unfolded at room temperature, you can put it under your bed when you’re not using it.
How does a self-inflating camping mattress work?
A self-inflating mat is a layer of compressible foam mounted in a fabric envelope that features a sealable valve. As soon as you open the valve, the mattress will expand, sucking air in and it will be semi-firm after a few minutes.
Do camping beds expire?
Of course, camping beds have their own expiration date, after which you should replace them. Their lifespan is averagely from 3 years to 30 years depending on the type, brand, and quality of it.
Conclusion
After thoroughly testing the most comfortable camping beds on the market, we have created the most intensive and unbiased review of camping beds in the world.
We have something in this review for everyone, from airbeds to foam pads and camping cots, from large-framed to heavy, lightweight, and tall campers, from the most durable to the cheapest.
With myriad options to choose from, we understand it’s a daunting task to make the right decision. That’s why we hope this ultimate buying guide is useful for you. Thanks for reading and happy camping!
