Air mattresses are an excellent solution if you need an alternative bed for overnight guests, temporary accommodation, or camping in the great outdoors.
One of the most appealing things about air mattresses is that you can pick them up for a great price. However, some on the market can cost hundreds of dollars.
For your average air mattress, prices can range from as little as $20 to $500.
So which ones are the best, and how low can you go regarding price before you start compromising the quality?
In this guide, we will look at some of the most affordable air mattress prices in 2023 so that you can buy with confidence and trust that you’re still investing in a quality product.
Air Mattress Prices in 2023
One thing that factors into the price of an air mattress is the size. So, before you start shopping, consider what size air mattress you need.
When contemplating what size you need, you should consider the following elements:
- How many people will be sleeping on the mattress
- Where will your air mattress be used
- How heavy are the users of the air mattress
- Where will your bed be stored when not in use
- Do you need to transport your air mattress
- What is the weight capacity of the mattress
Once you’ve figured this out, it will give you a better idea of how much you can expect to spend on your new air mattress.
Let’s look at the average price of an air mattress, depending on size.
1. Twin/Single Air Mattress
The twin-size air mattress is, of course, the lowest option. So, if you’re looking for an air mattress for a single adult or child, this will probably be your go-to option.
Twin air mattresses, such as the Sixaquae air mattress, are close to the $20.00 mark. But for such a low price, you don’t get the luxury of features such as a built-in air pump.
On the other hand, the Ourin TPU air mattress is priced at $300.00 and dollars and comes equipped with everything you need for ease of use. It’s hardwearing and perfect for outdoor use.
2. Full/Double Air Mattress
If you’re a heavier-set person or co-sleeping with a partner, you’ll need a double air mattress to support your weight and give you enough space. These start at under $40.00, depending on the features you require. The EnerPlex camping mattress, for example, is one of the more basic options.
However, if you’re looking for something more durable and high-tech, something like the Airelax Queen Mattress has an adjustable, built-in pump, which means it’s self-inflating and effortless to set up. It’s priced at just $169.00.
3. King Size Air Mattress
For superior comfort and plenty of room to move around, a King size air mattress is an excellent choice for many. Of course, you’ll need to ensure you have the space to house one of these, as once inflated, they’re pretty huge.
King-size air mattresses can still be purchased on a budget if you’re not looking for any fancy gadgets or self-inflation and are okay putting the work in to blow your mattress up yourself.
For example, this foldable, blow-up bed is priced at just $47.99, a bargain considering the size. It’s lightweight, easy to pack away, and perfect for traveling or camping.
On the flip side, you could opt for something more extravagant, such as the Ivation EZ-bed at $279.00. It features a self-inflating pump, a deflating system that has the bed down in less than four minutes, and a sturdy bed frame that raises you off the ground and gives the impression of a full-sized bed.
Air Mattress Material vs Price
Something else that can play a role in the price of an air mattress is what it’s made from. Some cheaper materials can cost less but may not last as long.
So if you’re investing in something you want to last, opting for a high-quality, well-made mattress is the better option.
The information below should give you a good idea of how much an air mattress will cost depending on the material.
- TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethanes) – This is one of the most durable materials for an air mattress, making it one of the most durable and popular. It’s tear resistant, hard to damage, and can be priced anywhere between $80.00 and $350.00.
- PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) – PVC is commonly used to make air mattresses because it is waterproof, fireproof, and durable. It’s also affordable, and you can pick up a well-made PVC air mattress for between $22.00 and $300.
- Rubber – Another popular material for making air mattresses is rubber, which has similar properties to PVC. It’s the cheapest of all the materials at around $20.00 to $80.00. However, they’re likely to be less durable and suitable for heavier weight.
Price of Air Mattress Accessories and Added Extras
When purchasing an air mattress, there’s more to think about than just the cost of the mattress itself.
For a start, you’re going to need something to pump it up, you might want a bed frame to raise the mattress off the floor, and you’ll need bedding, sheets, or mattress toppers if you require an extra layer of comfort or want to avoid the sound of a creaking air mattress.
1. Air Mattress Pump
Some people prefer to do things old-fashioned and blow their air mattresses up manually. However, most like the easy life and will require a pump.
So, if you’ve got an air mattress that doesn’t have the luxury of a built-in inflation system, you can buy pumps online.
How much a pump will cost will depend on the type. The cheapest option is an average foot pump if you’ve got the stamina to pump your leg up and down for a relatively long time. On the other hand, if you want a less exhausting option, an electric pump might be more practical. Both can be picked up for under $20.00.
Bear in mind, though, if you choose an electrical pump, you’ll need to ensure you have access to a power point, especially when camping.
2. Mattress Topper
Mattress toppers can make a world of difference regarding the comfort level of an air mattress.
The average price of an air mattress topper is around $40.00. There’s a wide range to choose from, such as a padded feather topper or a cooling bamboo topper that can help regulate body temperature when sleeping on a PVC bed.
3. Bed Frame
You can add a fold-away bed frame to make an air mattress feel more like sleeping on an actual bed. Some of the higher-end air mattresses come supplied with these already, but if you need to buy one separately, they can be picked up for less than $60.00.
Frequently Asked Questions About Air Mattress Prices
Let’s see what other potential air mattress owners are asking about the cost of a new air bed.
How much does a good-quality air mattress typically cost?
The cost of a good-quality air mattress can vary widely. But you can find options ranging from around $50 to $300 or more, depending on size, features, and brand.
Are cheaper air mattresses worth considering, or should I invest more?
Cheaper air mattresses can be suitable for occasional use, but investing more will likely provide better durability, comfort, and features. It’s essential to consider your intended use to ensure it works within your budget.
What features might increase the cost of an air mattress?
Features such as built-in pumps, adjustable settings, higher weight capacities, and additional accessories can contribute to a higher cost.
Let’s Break it Down
When considering your budget for buying a new air mattress, you have to think about much you’re willing to compromise regarding quality.
If you intend to use the mattress occasionally and not use too much weight, then a cheaper option will work well. However, if you plan to use your air mattress as a more permanent feature in your home. In that case, you’ll need to splash the cash a little further to ensure durability.
Remember to factor in items such as mattress toppers, air pumps, and bedding when evaluating your air mattress’s cost.
If you’ve decided an air mattress might not suit you, check out my guide to the best air mattress alternatives for more ideas.
