Looking for an air mattress? Your intended use for the product will play a major role in the features you'll need. Mattresses now range from standard 9-inch inflatable beds appropriate for indoor or outdoor use, to sophisticated, raised mattresses that incline, like the Wenzel Insta-Flex air bed (*Est. $150). Standard-height air mattresses can be considerably more affordable, but many aren't as comfortable as raised models, which sit higher off the floor.

Air beds designed for both indoor and outdoor use are in the same price range as standard-height air beds, but offer more versatility. The Coleman 4-in-1 Quickbed (*Est. $50 without pump) can be inflated using battery power or a car adapter (not included). These factors can enhance product convenience. Another thing to note: air mattresses used outdoors will be more prone to punctures, so look for models made of thicker, more durable materials, such as the Aero Sport All-Terrain (*Est. $75 to $90, depending on size). Other shopping tips:

  • Pick the right product for your needs. Consider where you plan to use the bed and your resources for inflation and deflation. Some beds come with built-in pumps, while others must be inflated with an external pump -- and these products are often sold separately. Additionally, beds with electric pumps might not be the best picks for frequent outdoor use -- so consider all your options and how you intend to use the product before you buy.
  • Give yourself some time. It can often take a few nights' sleep to figure out the ideal level of inflation for a new air mattress. If you don't sleep comfortably the first night, be patient and use the mattress two or three more times. Not happy with your purchase? AeroBed models have a 30-day return policy, while return policies for the Insta-Bed may vary depending on the retailer. Call the store where you purchased the product for more details.
  • Consider the product's storage capability. Taller air beds, as well as those that come with a metal frame, take up more space and aren't as easily portable. On the other hand, some air beds come with their own carrying bags to make travel and storage more convenient.
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