Choosing the right temporary sleeping setup is easier when you know how it will actually be used. A bed for occasional guests at home does not need the same features as one used for camping, festivals or regular travel.
This guide explains the main differences between single, double and self-inflating options, so you can choose something practical without overbuying or ending up with the wrong setup.
Quick summary
For most homes: a standard inflatable bed with a built-in or easy-use pump is the simplest choice.
For compact rooms or one person: a single option is easier to store and fit into smaller spaces.
For couples or more comfort: a double option gives guests more sleeping room.
For camping and travel: self-inflating designs can be easier to pack, carry and set up.
You can also browse our full air beds range if you already know what type you need.
Start with where the bed will be used
The right choice depends on the setting. For a spare room, guest room or occasional overnight stay, comfort and setup speed usually matter most. For camping or festivals, packed size, portability and inflation method become more important.
Before choosing, think about three things:
- How many people will sleep on it?
- How much floor or tent space do you have?
- Will it stay at home, or does it need to travel?
Single, double or self-inflating: which type makes sense?
Each type has a slightly different job. The best option is not always the biggest one; it is the one that matches the space, user and setup.
| Type | Best for | Main benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Single air beds | One person, small rooms, sleepovers and compact storage | Easy to fit, move and pack away |
| Double air beds | Couples, guest rooms and more comfortable overnight use | More sleeping space and a roomier feel |
| Self-inflating air beds | Camping, touring and travel-friendly sleeping setups | Simpler setup with better packability |
For guest rooms and spare rooms
If the bed will mainly be used at home, comfort and convenience should lead the decision. A higher sleeping surface can feel easier for adults to get on and off, while a built-in pump can make setup much quicker when guests arrive.
For occasional visitors, it is also worth thinking about how neatly the bed stores afterwards. A comfortable option is only useful if it is easy to deflate, fold and put away between uses.
For camping, festivals and travel
Travel use is different. A large, raised inflatable mattress may feel comfortable, but it can be bulky to move and may not be ideal for smaller tents or limited car space.
For camping, check the packed size, weight, inflation method and how much space you have inside the tent. Self-inflating options are often chosen when portability and quick setup matter more than maximum mattress height.
Think about pump style
Pump style has a big effect on how convenient the bed feels in real use. Built-in electric pumps are useful for home setups where you have access to power. Manual or external pump options can be better when portability matters or when you are away from plug sockets.
There is no single right answer. The right pump style depends on where the bed will be used most often.
Do not forget storage space
Storage is easy to overlook. Before buying, think about where the bed will go when deflated. A spare-room option can usually be larger, while a travel option should fold down neatly and be easy to carry.
Also make sure the bed is clean and fully dry before packing it away. This helps protect the material and keeps it ready for the next use.
Choosing the right option
For one person or limited space, choose a compact single setup. For couples or guests who need more room, a double option will usually feel more comfortable. For camping and travel, prioritise portability, setup time and packed size.
The best approach is to match the bed to the main use first, then compare comfort, pump type, height and storage size afterwards.
Explore more
Browse the full air beds collection to compare guest, camping and travel-friendly options in one place.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size air bed should I choose?
Choose based on who will use it and where it will fit. Single options are better for one person or smaller rooms, while double options give more space for guests or couples.
Are inflatable beds good for guests?
Yes, they can be a practical choice for occasional guests because they offer a proper sleeping surface and can be packed away when not in use.
Is a self-inflating option better for camping?
Self-inflating designs can be better for camping when portability, quick setup and packed size are more important than mattress height.
Should I choose a built-in pump?
A built-in pump is convenient for home use, especially when you want faster inflation and deflation. For camping or travel, check whether you will have access to power.
How should an air bed be stored?
Deflate it fully, make sure it is clean and dry, then fold it carefully and store it away from sharp objects, damp areas and direct heat.
