Best Camping Mattress for Couples Who Enjoy Outdoor Adventures
Our top picks
Experience has shown us that it is impossible to single out just one product as the absolute best. That's why we always divide the winners by categories. Each of these products are great, just one is better than the other in a particular category. After reading this part of our guide we believe you will have a clear picture of which camping mattress you want.
Mattresses
1
Best Overall
Mattresses
2
Best Value
Mattresses
3
Best Sleeping Pad
Mattresses
4
Best For Quick Inflating
Mattresses
5
Best Lightweight
Mattresses
6
Most Comfortable
Mattresses
7
Best With Pillow Included
Best Overall: ActiveEra Camping Bed
You will not want to return to your bed after sleeping on ActiveEra Camping Bed for a few nights.
Best Overall
This premium camping mattress has a built-in electric pump. Within 90 seconds you will have the air mattress ready to use. Cord storage is a very useful feature, as well as a manual valve. We singled out the ActiveEra Camping Bed as the BEST OVERALL primarily because of how comfortable it is.
It has a specific structure consisting of 21 air-coils for perfect comfort and support. An integrated pillow helps with spinal alignment. Not to mention that it saves you the trouble of packing one yourself.
This camping mattress is also thick, so anyone who weighs less than 120 kg can sleep on it. And it helps keep you warm and comfortable. Plus, it is made of a puncture-resistant material and is waterproof so you will be able to use it for years. The ActiveEra Camping Bed can even be a great addition to guest room, and not only for outdoor use.
KEY FEATURES:
- Size: 187 cm x 99 cm
- Thickness: 53 cm
- Weight: 4.6 kg
- Maximum load: 120 kg
- Inflating pump included: Yes
- Dimensions when packed: N/A
Advantages
Air pump included
You do get a built-in air pump
Waterproof
100% waterproof and water cannot penetrate inside
Affordable
Excellent ratio of quality-money
Disadvantages
Too big for some couples
Some couples may find this mattress too big
Best Value: Coleman Comfort Airbed
Get a great tent mattress for the fraction of the price at which other models are offered.
Best Value
Although this is a compact single-size inflatable bed for tents, caravans or for guests at home, you can buy two that will fit in the tent and still be cheaper than some other larger mattresses. So we thought it was appropriate to give it the BEST VALUE award. The Coleman Comfort Airbed is also comfortable and very durable.
Strong PVC is thick and resistant to punctures. So, it's not a camping air bed that's going to start deflating the second you put it on the ground. And this means this air bed is likely going to stick around for a while – further adding to its value.
The pump must be purchased separately. You can easily inflate it. Open the valve, insert the pump then seal the valve and when you inflate it then close the valve. It has a double lock to keep the air from escaping before you close the valve.
KEY FEATURES:
- Size: 189 cm x 65 cm
- Thickness: 17 cm
- Weight: 1.3 kg
- Maximum load: N/A
- Inflating pump included: No
- Dimensions when packed: N/A
Advantages
Good for small tents
Perfect choice for small tents
Affordable
Affordable. Great price-quality ratio
Durable
Highly durable material & sturdy construction
Disadvantages
No pump
Pump is not included & you have to buy it separately
Best Sleeping Pad: Trekology UL80
Compact, premium quality and robust are just some of the attributes we can use for the Trekology UL80.
Best Sleeping Pad
This inflating camping sleeping pad has a revolutionary design. You will notice a curvature that is perfectly adapted to the shape of the body. It keeps you 10 cm from the ground, and due to the shape you can't slip off it.
Trekology UL80 is also comfortable and supportive so you will wake up completely rested, ready to continue your outdoor adventure. And this isn't something we'd say about your run-of-the-mill camping pad.
The air valve is made so that you can inflate the pad both by mouth and with electronic pump which you have to buy separately. It's even easier to deflate it, you just need to open the large air valve. When you pack it, the Trekology UL80 is so small and lightweight that you’ll forget you have it in your luggage. We consider it heavy-duty since it is made of 40D nylon.
KEY FEATURES:
- Size: 191 cm x 57 cm
- Thickness: 10 cm
- Weight: 750 g
- Maximum load: N/A
- Inflating pump included: No
- Dimensions when packed: N/A
Advantages
Lightweight
Super lightweight & easy to carry around
Enlarged air valve
The air valve enables you to inflate it by mouth or an air pump
Sturdy
The sturdy construction ensures durability
Disadvantages
Pump must be bought separately
Pump is not included in the set
Best For Quick Inflating: Hikenature Ultralight Sleeping Mat
Hikenature Ultralight Sleeping Mat will be ready to use in less than a minute.
Best For Quick Inflating
Whether you are a stomach, side or back sleeper, you will find the ergonomic design of the Hikenature Ultralight Sleeping Mat comfortable. It features a patented valve thanks to which you only need 10-15 full breaths to inflate it, and you will deflate it in a few seconds too.
And even a self-inflating camping mattress pad typically takes longer to be ready than this! So, in terms of speed, this sleeping pad is on a level of its own.
Made of 20D nylon material with thickened TPU layer under the surface, you can be sure it is durable and waterproof. Our recommendation is to choose a model with a pillow, because the pillow is very comfortable and supports your head and neck. It is quite affordable, even when you opt for model with a pillow. Choose one of three unisex colours.
KEY FEATURES:
- Size: 187 cm x 56 cm
- Thickness: 5.5 cm
- Weight: 700 g
- Maximum load: N/A
- Inflating pump included: No
- Dimensions when packed: 10 cm x 28 cm
Advantages
Waterproof
Waterproof design ensures protection from spills
Lightweight
It is super lightweight
Pillow included
The pillow is included in the set
Disadvantages
Lack of straps
It happens it slides due to lack of straps or anti-slip bottom
Best Lightweight: Clostnature Insulated Mattress Pad
If you want to keep things light and easy, this sleeping pad should be right up your alley!
Best Lightweight
The Clostnature Insulated Mattress Pad is simple but effective. Like all self-inflating pads, it makes it so you don't have to carry a pump around and saves you valuable backpack space. Plus, the sleeping pad itself is rather light. So, you don't have to worry about throwing your back out while carrying one of these around.
On top of that, the sleeping bag can be compressed to the size of a stuff sack while still having a decent thickness overall. It's also rather durable and comes with some nice foam insulation.
Lastly, this sleeping pad has its own pillow to properly support your neck. So, another space-saver there. And it's rather cheap for an inflatable sleeping pad. So, your wallet is the only thing that isn't made lighter with this camping mattress!
KEY FEATURES:
- Size: 190 cm x 60 cm
- Thickness: 4 cm
- Weight: 1.5 kg
- Maximum load: N/A
- Inflating pump included: No
- Dimensions when packed: 34 cm x 17.5 cm x 17.5 cm
Advantages
1-year warranty
Warranties are somewhat rare on Amazon
Waterproof
Waterproof design ensures it stays dry
High quality memory foam
The product is made of high quality memory foam
Disadvantages
Too thin for some
It could be a bit thicker
Most Comfortable: Coleman Inflatable Airbed
Most comfortable mattress for couples we’ve tested.
Most Comfortable
Do you prefer single height or double height? You can choose exactly what you want. Single height is 22 cm and double height 47 cm so the difference is significant. The Coleman Inflatable Airbed is very firm and supportive because of the 40 air-coils it provides, but that does not impair comfort.
Not even for one level. You and your partner will enjoy an invigorating sleep wherever you are. It is especially suitable for tents and caravans, but you can also install it in the guest room. It supports up to 295 kg, which is a really huge load and significantly more than most camping mattresses.
The double lock valve guarantees fast and simple inflation and deflation. So, even when it comes to setup, this camping mattress keeps things rather simple.
KEY FEATURES:
- Size: Single, Double, Raised double
- Thickness: 22 cm/ 47 cm
- Weight: 1.3 kg, 2.8 kg, 4.6 kg
- Maximum load: 148 kg/ 295 kg
- Inflating pump included: No
- Dimensions when packed: N/A
Advantages
Perfect for couples
A perfect pick for couple
Durable & sturdy
Highly durable and long lasting
Firm and supportive
A lot firmer and more supportive than similar models
Disadvantages
A bit expensive
A bit expensive. Especially when compared to similar products
Best With Pillow Included: Geediar Inflatable Sleeping Mat
Don’t compromise your neck and spine even during camping trip.
Best With Pillow Included
The Geediar Inflatable Sleeping Mat is one of the few camping mattresses / mats that are double-sided. Both sides are made of TPU nylon but the blue side has an elastic cloth covering.
Why is that important? The elastic cloth covering makes your movements completely inaudible, and this is very important for light sleepers, since it can be quite noisy in the tent even without tossing and turning of your restless partner.
The pillow is perfectly comfortable and it is embedded which means it won’t move. When you roll it up, you can carry it in your hand and it weighs only 640 grams. It does not require a pump and it is waterproof. It is even suitable for car camping!
All you need aside from this sleeping pad is a sleeping bag and you're good to go!
KEY FEATURES:
- Size: 200 cm x 58 cm
- Thickness: 6 cm
- Weight: 640 g
- Maximum load: N/A
- Inflating pump included: No
- Dimensions when packed: 22.5 cm x 9 cm
Advantages
Affordable
Highly affordable, considering the quality you get for the price you pay
Double sided
Turn it and use the other side as well
Good for back sleepers
The pillow can support your neck
Disadvantages
Could be thicker
It would not hurt if it was a bit thicker
Before you buy a camping mattress for couples
Finding a suitable mattress for couples can be a tricky business, whether you are looking for a mattress for the bedroom or for camping. Each person has different preferences, and there is a good chance that you and your partner are not compatible when it comes to sleep positions.
For example, if you are a stomach sleeper and your partner is a side sleeper, you need completely different features. So you can't expect every mattress we've selected to be equally comfortable. It is up to you to analyse the characteristics and make the right choice according to the information we provide.
If you or your partner are allergy sufferers, hot sleepers or light sleepers it also affects the choice of mattress. We did our best to mention all the relevant features to make your purchase easier.
Features to look for in camping mattress for couples
Once you buy a bedroom mattress, you probably won’t move it off the bed except to flip and rotate it, until you buy a new one, in 5 or 10 years.
On the other hand, you will move your best camping mattress every time you go camping. That’s why some features like weight and packaging are especially important. But that's not all! Here are some other features to look for when buying a camping mattress for couples.
Air mattress vs foam pad vs sleeping mat
There is not just one type of camping mattress. It is a term used by manufacturers and retailers to place air mattresses, foam pads, and sleeping mats in the same category. An air mattress is the most common choice for couples and it is a mattress filled with air. It is often called an air bed, but an air bed is a mattress for a bedroom actually.
You can inflate it using a pump or blow air in it. The air mattress is lightweight and that is the main reason why it is so popular.
Foam pads are convenient because all you have to do is unroll them and they are ready to use. However they are usually very thin and not perfectly comfortable, especially if the ground beneath you is uneven. A sleeping mat is the most comfortable type of camping mattress. Open-cell foam makes the core of the sleeping mat. Open-cell foam is self-inflating. The downside of a sleeping mat is that it is heavier and bulkier.
So, as you can see, depending on whether you get an air mattress, a foam pad, or a sleeping mat, you're going to have a different experience. Therefore, to cover all of our bases, let's look at each subtype individually and lay out the pros and cons, and which situations they're best suited for.
Air mattresses
Air mattresses are arguably the best when it comes to variety. They're a lot more popular than the other two types and their design has a much wider range. For example, if you want to be as comfortable as possible, there are very thick air mattresses that can properly cushion you. However, if you're going car camping, you can also get a thin air mattress that can fit in the back of a car.
On top of that, since they're inflatable, air mattresses are the easiest to transport. Just let the air out, roll it up, and some models can even fit inside of your backpack. So, if you're going hiking, an air mattress might be more convenient than a foam pad or sleeping mat.
With that being said, air mattresses aren't perfect. Of the three, air mattresses are the most prone to damage. And once the outer layer is damaged, the air mattress becomes virtually unusable. So, if you're planning to sleep on rougher terrain, an air mattress might be too much of a risk.
So, we'd say that you should opt for an air mattress if you're going somewhere where carry weight is very important and the terrain isn't too rough. Or if you're going car camping.
Foam pads
Foam pads are rather simple and straight to the point. It's just a solid slab of foam that you roll and unroll as needed. And this comes with a few perks but also a few downsides. For one, since they're always the same size, foam pads might not be the best option for a hiking camping trip.
On the other hand, they're easy to set up and you don't have to worry as much about the foam pad getting damaged. So, they're a lot more stress-free than an air mattress. And since they're relatively thin, they could prove useful for car camping.
However, do note that you'll be rather close to the ground. So, make sure that your sleeping bag has sufficient padding. Also, don't expect it to feel like a foam mattress, since foam pads are closer to mattress toppers than mattresses. But if you don't need as much cushioning and are going somewhere where the terrain might be rough, a foam pad could be a better option than an air mattress.
Sleeping mats
A sleeping mat or a sleeping pad (as it's sometimes called) is typically like a foam pad but a bit more advance. For example, sleeping mats sometimes come with their own pillow and can even have proper insulation in some cases. You'll also notice that among our top picks, a few of the sleeping mats have checkered designs made to better support your body amd promote airflow.
So, should a sleeping mat be your best buddy on the next camping trip? Yes and no. For one, while they can sometimes be inflatable and compact, that isn't always the case. So, check the compressed dimensions before you decide it's better than an air mattress.
Secondly, some models can be a bit heavier. And the added pillow can make the whole thing a bit more bulky. This isn't always the case but it can happen. Also, keep in mind that the price can be a bit higher. But, as you've noticed, there are lots of ifs and buts here, since sleeping mats come in a very wide range of designs.
Size/dimensions and weight
Dimensions and weight are extremely important for a camping mattress. It must be functional or it loses its basic purpose. Since you are looking for a camping mattress for couples, a Single size does not suit you. You also need to buy one that has a maximum load that can carry you two. However, don’t ask for it to be the same size as the bedroom mattress. It has to be smaller so it can fit in the tent.
Also check the dimensions when packed, as there are camping mattresses that are quite large when inflated and small when packed. This is an ideal option. Another important characteristic is weight. You don’t want to lug around camping mattresses that are 5 kg each.
Of course, you also have the option of getting two of the best camping mattresses and sleeping separately. If your camp trip takes place during the summer, this could be a good way to avoid overheating.
And if you each carry an inflatable sleeping pad, it's easy to keep your carryweight low. However, seeing how you're searching for the best camping mattresses for couples, we're going to assume this isn't an ideal setup for you.
Package & convenience
The packaging determines how easy it is to get your camping mattresses from one place to another. It is not the same if you plan to use it occasionally in the guest bedroom and have a cottage on the lake, where it will be installed all the time, or if you are someone who changes the camping site every week. Most camping mattresses come with an original storage bag where you can store them when not in use.
And depending on where you plan to go camping, you should look for different things. For example, if you're a three-season camper and go on hikes all the time, look into camping mattresses that can be compressed to a very small size. Air mattresses are also solid in this situation. It also helps if they have their own, durable bag for storing.
However, if you want a car camping mattress, the size can be a bit bigger. And, as we've mentioned, if you just need an air mattress for your lakehouse, even a large mattress will get the job done.
Durability
A camping mattress is more durable than a classic mattress, but its service life is usually shorter. How is it possible? It is durable when we talk about physical damage, but it usually lasts between 5 and 7 years. How long it will last, of course, depends on the frequency of use.
If you use it three times a year, even one of the affordable camping mattresses will last over 10 years. Since it is made of a durable material and the construction is specific, if you are careful, the probability that you will significantly damage it is small.
With that being said, as we've mentioned, some camping mattresses are more prone to damage than others. A cheap air mattress can likely be punctured by a sharp rock. However, a higher-end inflatable mattress probably has more padding in place to stop this from happening. And things like foam pads will likely stay strong for as long as you don't get them wet.
Comfort
Don't expect it to be as comfortable as, for example, your 5-layer hybrid mattress. But that also doesn’t mean camping mattresses are uncomfortable. Many of them are very comfortable, especially after a long day of hiking. If you want to make it even more comfortable, you can consider a mattress topper. But in most cases, it alone will be cosy enough.
However, there are a few things to look out for. For one, the thicker the camping mattress, the more comfortable you're likely going to be. After all, even the best camping mattress is still going to be placed on the ground. So, if it's only 5 cm thick, your body will definitely feel how close it is to the cold, hard ground.
On the other hand, an air mattress that's 50 cm thick is likely to feel more like your regular mattress at home. However, that's not the only factor at play. How firm the mattress is also plays a part.
While it might seem counterproductive, a very soft inflatable sleeping pad is going to be worse off than a firm foam pad. This is because your body will sink deeper and therefore be closer to the ground. You can offset this somewhat with a good sleeping bag but it's generally best to be as far away from the ground as you can.
The insulation
While this won't apply to everyone, it's still worth bringing up. Namely, camping mattresses for couples who like to camp year-round need to have good insulation. While we all tend to only think of sleeping bags when it comes to staying warm, a good sleeping pad is just as important!
After all, your sleeping bag goes on top and the bottom layer usually doesn't have as much insulation as the upper part. So, making sure that cold air can't get to you is rather important. The most straightforward way to go about this is to have the sleeping pad be on the thicker side, as we've already discussed.
However, proper camping mattresses will also often have insulation built-in. And if you want to be as comfortable in the wild during winter as in your own bed, this is incredibly important! So, if you do plan to go camping during the winter, try to look for a sleeping bad that's specifically made to handle lower temperatures.
Inflating method
There are so many different inflating methods. Let's start with self-inflating ones. As the name suggests, all you have to do is unpack them and they will inflate themselves due to the inner construction. These are the easiest to set up and you don't have to carry an air pump around. However, it's questionable whether a self-iflating air mattress is going to be as firm as an air mattress you directly pump.
Models that inflate by mouth are also popular because you don't have to buy a pump, although this can be challenging for those with a lower lung capacity. The most convenient method is the pump. There are electric pumps that you need to plug into an electrical source, so we recommend those pumps that are battery-powered. Pumps also differ whether they are internal or external.
The price
Whether you're getting an air mattress or a foam pad, the best camping mattresses won't always come cheap. So, it's important to note what a higher price-tag can get you and set up a budget before you go shopping. Thefore, we're going to quickly go over the main areas that impact both the price and the performance of a camping mattress.
Durability
More budget-oriented camping mattress can often be a bit more brittle. This is quite important if you're planning to get an air mattress as it can deflate in the middle of your camping trip. Foam and sleeping pads won't be affected as much but they're likely stay in tip-top shape for a shorter amount of time.
Convenience
Higher-end models tend to be a bit more convenient than budget-oriented camping mattresses that mainly focus on keeping you comfortable. Things such as including a pump or having the camping mattress be easily compressable are two examples.
Added features
Higher-end camping mattresses can also come with rather unique features. For example, a foam pad could be made to more closely mimic the feel of a foam mattress. An air mattress could have an adjustable firmness level. Self-inflating mattresses could be thicker than similar models. The mattress could come with its own pillow or be tied in with a sleeping bad etc.
The brand
Lastly, we wanted to talk about the brand. No, the best overall camping mattress doesn't have to come from a well-known brand. However, camping mattresses are among the bedding items that do benefit from a larger name being attached.
For one, this makes it easier to get higher-quality, specialised equipment. For example, if you want a sleeping pad that can handle negative temperatures, you're less likely to find one from an unknown brand. However, places like Sea to Summit or the Rei Co Op gear are more likely to have what you need. And that's because they handle all kinds of gear relating to camping and are therefore in the know when it comes to what it's like and what you need.
Again, this isn't a 100% guarantee and you can get a comfortable camping mattress from some unknown third-party. However, if your camping trips take place during the winter, we'd suggest looking into one of these bigger camping brands.
Other things to keep in mind when camping
If you've been on many camping trips you likely already know this but it's still worth bringing up. Even the best camping mattress can't ensure that you'll stay comfortable! This is because all of your gear needs to be solid in order for you and your partner to get a good night's rest.
Firstly, a good sleeping bag. If you're going somewhere with a cold climate, it's essential that you have a high-quality sleeping bag that can keep your warm. We'd specifically recommend looking into Go Outdoors sleeping bags, as they're rather reliable.
Your camping trips would also be rather short-lived if you don't have a good tent. You wouldn't want your own bed to get wet so make sure your camping mattress gets the same treatment. Find a tent that's waterproof and will keep things nice and dry! Also, it can be smart to look at the underside of the tent.
If you're looking into cheaper self inflating mattresses, make sure at least the tent has a durable bottom to protect the mattress from sharp points. Lastly, make sure that your comfortable camping mattress is paired with a comfortable camping pillow! After all, your neck needs just as much support and comfort as your back.
Tips for buying and using camping mattress for couples
Since you are not buying a mattress just for yourself, the most important thing is to consult with your partner. Even the best camping mattresses are going to be mediocre if they only suit one of you! Talk about what you want to get from the mattress for camping other than the most obvious things. It would be best if you have similar requirements related to firmness, but even if that is not the case you can still find a product that will be good for both of you.
Once you buy it, use it carefully. Although such mattresses are significantly more resistant to damage than classic mattresses, they are not indestructible. So always check the ground before you put the mattress in place. Maybe there is a thorn or something else that can damage the mattress or cause poor night's sleep. This is especially important if you have an air mattress.
- Don't forget to compare the dimensions of the tent and the mattress
- Find a model which has such characteristics that both partners can sleep fine
- If the air mattress does not come with an inflating pump, it means that you will have to buy it separately, so include that into the cost as well.
The advantages of owning camping mattress for couples
Camping mattress for couples has all the same advantages as the mattress you sleep on at home, but also many other advantages. Certainly the most evident advantage is good night's sleep. This type of mattress will help you make camping comfortable as if you paid a few thousand pounds for a resort and not went to the woods. Then you will be able to fully recharge your batteries during camping. You will return to the city rested and refreshed, ready for all the obligations that await you.
A camping mattress is there to separate you from damp earth, beetles and earthworms. If you tried to lie down directly on the ground, you would quickly realise how uncomfortable it is and you probably wouldn't be able to fall asleep. Intercourse with your partner can be especially memorable and romantic under the starry sky, but it will only be possible if you buy a camping mattress for couples.
- Restful night's sleep even when you're away from your bed
- Most camping mattresses are waterproof so you will definitely stay dry
- It is adapted for transport so that when you pack it, it will be so small that it can fit in a backpack.
Conclusion
And that's how you find the best camping mattress for couples! So, are you ready for your next big camping trip? Make sure to tell us all about it in the comments and share any extra tips we might have missed out on.
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FAQs about your camping mattress for couples
If any of your questions are left unanswered, don’t worry. We left answers to FAQs about your new camping mattress for the end of the guide.
How thick a camping mattress for couples should be?
There is no universal answer to this question, the material from which the mattress is made plays a more important role than thickness.
What’s better: air mattresses, camping beds or sleeping mats?
Each of these types of camping mattresses for couples has its advantages and disadvantages, and you will decide which one is most suitable for your needs.
Are foam mattresses good for camping?
Foam mattresses can be quite good for camping since they are comfortable, supportive, durable and pressure relieving.
How can I make my camping mattress more comfortable?
You can make it more comfortable by placing cushion under it and adding additional pillows.
Do camping mattresses for couples come with a pump?
Some of them come with a pump, and some not, you have to check that before buying. There are even models that don’t need pump.
How to inflate a camping mattress properly?
You should follow manufacturer’s instructions, whether you are inflating it by pump or by mouth.
How to check if a camping mattress is broken?
If it is punctured, you will easily notice that as well as all other signs of damage because it will not be usable in such condition. A self inflating mattress, for example, won't hold air you will notice the place where air escapes out.
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