Camp Bed Buying Guide

A standard sleeping bag and roll mat setup works for some campers, but not everyone finds it comfortable enough. If you want a better night’s sleep in a tent, choosing the right camp bed or mattress makes a noticeable difference. This guide covers the key things to consider, along with the main types available, so you can decide what suits your setup.

How to choose a camping bed

There’s a wide range of camp beds and mattresses available, so it helps to narrow things down based on how and where you camp.

Portability
If you’re travelling light or heading off on foot, weight and pack size matter. Roll mats and compact self-inflating mats are the easiest to carry. If you’re camping from the car or staying on a site, bulkier options like air beds or folding camp beds are less of an issue.

Height off the ground
Some people are happy sleeping at ground level, while others prefer to be raised. Camp beds lift you off the ground, which can help in colder conditions and makes getting in and out of bed easier. They also allow air to circulate underneath in warmer weather.

Size and packability
Check both the packed size and the usable length. Some folding camp beds can take up more room in the car, while air beds pack down smaller when deflated. Taller campers should always check the length, as not all models offer enough space.

Thickness and support
For inflatable or self-inflating mats, thickness plays a big role in comfort. Around 5cm is a basic starting point, while 8–10cm or more will feel noticeably more supportive. It’s also worth checking the maximum load rating, especially for larger users.

Materials and surface finish
Modern camping beds use a range of fabrics designed to manage moisture and improve comfort. Flocked tops on air beds help stop your sleeping bag from slipping, while padded mats can feel closer to a regular mattress.

Budget
Simple foam roll mats are the most affordable. Air beds, self-inflating mats, and folding camp beds vary depending on size and build quality, with more durable and thicker models costing more.

Extra features
Some camp beds include built-in headrests, reinforced frames, or improved valve systems. It’s also worth checking customer feedback for common issues such as air loss, weak frames, or tricky folding mechanisms.

Types of camping beds

There are four main options, each suited to different styles of camping.

Roll mats

The simplest option, roll mats are made from foam and offer basic insulation from the ground.

Pros

• Lightweight and easy to carry
• Low cost
• No setup required

Cons

• Limited comfort, especially on uneven ground
• Bulkier than they look when rolled
• Minimal cushioning

Self-inflating mats

Self-Inflating mats combine foam insulation with an air-filled core. Open the valve and they draw in air on their own, with a small top-up if needed.

Pros

• Better insulation than air beds
• More comfortable than basic mats
• No pump required

Cons

• Bulkier than air beds when packed
• Can puncture over time
• Still used at ground level

Air beds

Air beds are fully inflatable and typically thicker than self-inflating mats. They require a pump to inflate.

Pros

• Good level of cushioning
• Available in single and double sizes
• Pack down small when deflated

Cons

• Can lose air overnight
• Less insulation in colder weather
• Require a pump for setup

Camp beds (stretchers)

Camp beds use a fabric sleeping surface stretched across a metal frame, raising you off the ground.

Pros

• Easier to get in and out of
• Keeps you off uneven or damp ground
• Can double as seating
• Space underneath for storage

Cons

• Bulkier to transport
• Less insulation without a mattress on top
• Slightly longer setup time

Camping bed FAQs

Air bed or camp bed – which is better?
It depends on what you value most. Air beds and self-inflating mats provide more cushioning, while camp beds keep you off the ground and can be easier to use if you don’t want to sleep low down.

Do you need a mattress on a camp bed?
Not essential, but it does improve comfort. Many campers add a self-inflating mat or foam layer on top.

Is memory foam suitable for camping?
Not usually. It reacts to temperature, becoming firm in the cold and softer in heat, and it can absorb moisture inside a tent.

How thick should a camping mattress be?
For regular use, aim for at least 8–10cm if you want a more supportive and comfortable sleep.

If you’re unsure which option suits you, it often comes down to how you camp. Travelling light points towards mats, while campsite stays give you more flexibility to use air beds or camp beds. Choosing the right setup can make a noticeable difference by the end of a trip.