Buying guide for Best twin airbeds
Sleeping on the floor or the couch isn't the most comfortable option, but sometimes, you don't have many other choices. Whether you're going on a camping trip, arranging a sleepover for your kids, or having house guests, a twin airbed provides a surprisingly comfortable night's sleep, especially in comparison to the alternatives. Best of all: in the morning, you can simply pack it away until you need it next time.
With so many twin airbed options available, it's important to determine which features you want from your storable sleeper. You can find single-height and raised models in various lengths. There are also many options that improve comfort, such as internal air coils and flocked tops.
Key considerations
Single-height vs. raised
Single-height airbeds are usually between five and 10 inches thick and are most often inflated with an external air pump. Because they hold less air than raised options, they're quicker to inflate. You can blow one up using a manual foot pump or hand pump, or you can do the job without a pump — if you have an impressive lung capacity. Single-height airbeds are more compact and lightweight than raised options. As such, they're great for camping. The downside is that they're not as comfortable as raised airbeds and are more difficult to get up from and down to since they're so close to the ground.
Raised airbeds are sometimes called double-height airbeds, though this isn't strictly accurate because they're often taller than double the height of a single-height model. Raised airbeds usually have a height of 18 to 25 inches. It's easier to get in and out of a raised airbed, and they tend to be more comfortable than single-height airbeds. They're not ideal for camping, however, as most require access to a power outlet to inflate them, and those that don't would take a long time to inflate with a manual pump. Plus, raised airbeds are probably too bulky and heavy for camping, even when deflated.
Length
Most twin airbeds are standard twin bed length: 75 inches. However, some models take the term "twin size" loosely and may be slightly shorter, especially those designed for kids. On the other end of the spectrum, you can also find twin XL airbeds, which measure 80 inches from top to bottom.
Weight capacity
All twin airbeds have a maximum weight limit, which can be lower than you'd expect, so be sure to check this. Exceeding the specified weight limit can damage a bed. Some lightweight twin airbeds may only hold about 200 pounds, whereas the sturdiest models can accommodate sleepers of 350 pounds or more.
Air retention
An important feature of any air mattress is that it should actually stay full of air once filled. Sadly, some airbeds aren't as effective in this area as you would hope. It's impossible to tell how good an airbed's air retention is by looking at it and, of course, the manufacturer won't tell you that it's likely to start sagging in the middle of the night. All of our recommended choices have good air retention, but you can also check customer reviews to glean more information.
Did you know?
Some twin airbeds have an antimicrobial surface, which helps prevent the buildup of mold and mildew even when the bed is stored for long periods of time.
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Features
Air pump
Although it is technically possible to inflate single-height twin airbeds without an air pump, we wouldn't recommend it, and double-height options definitely require one. Most raised air mattresses have built-in electric air pumps. While this is convenient, you need access to a power outlet to inflate them. Some models include separate air pumps, either manual or battery-powered. Otherwise, you'd need to get your air pump separately.
Internal air coils
Many mid-range and high-end air mattresses include internal air coils, which are reinforced pockets of air inside the mattress. These coils give more structure to the airbed, which offers greater support and comfort.
Dual-chamber airbeds
Some airbeds feature two air chambers that must be filled separately. These dual chambers allow you to tailor the firmness of different parts of the airbed, as well as bolstering the bed’s overall structure.
Twin airbed prices
Twin airbeds vary in price depending on their height, features, and overall quality.
Inexpensive
Basic single-height twin airbeds start at around $10 to $30. These are fine for occasional use on camping trips or at home, but they're not the most luxurious models.
Mid-range
Expect to pay between $30 and $70 for the average twin airbed. This price point includes feature-rich single-height air mattresses in addition to some solid raised options.
Expensive
High-end twin airbeds cost roughly $70 to $150. Look for the best raised airbeds with the most features in this price range.
Tips
Consider how long your chosen twin airbed takes to inflate. Those with built-in air pumps can take anywhere from one to five minutes to inflate. If you don't have an integrated air pump, the inflation time will depend on the pump you choose.
Check the size of your twin airbed when packed away. Some are extremely compact when folded up, whereas others are larger. A compact model is best for camping.
Find out whether your twin airbed includes a storage bag. This is especially useful for transporting your twin airbed and protecting it while it’s in storage.
- Consider how often you will use your twin airbed. If you'll be using your airbed for guests every weekend, you might want to invest in a high-end model that's likely to be more durable over time. On the other hand, a budget air mattress would likely suffice for yearly camping trips.
- Get a patch kit. Punctures always seem to happen at the least convenient times, but keeping the supplies on hand to patch your mattress can reduce the level of inconvenience.
