5 Alternative to Air Mattress Products Under $20 That Reviewers Love

Whether you’re camping out in the woods, going on a trip with friends, or crashing at home, having an air mattress can be useful for sleeping. However, they can be uncomfortable, heavy, and prone to leaks. Plus, they’re a pain to carry around with an air pump.

Luckily, there are plenty of alternatives to air mattresses that will give you just as good a night’s sleep. These alternatives include foam pads, hammocks, camping cots, and even a sleeping bag.

Foam Pads
A foam pad is a great alternative to an air mattress for most people. These are lighter, easier to pack, and are puncture-proof, making them ideal for backpacking trips.

They also tend to be more comfortable, though not as firm or supportive as an air mattress. Some are a little more expensive than others, so you should shop around for the best one to fit your budget and needs.

Hammocks
Hammocks are another great alternative to air mattresses for many campers, and they’re popular with hikers as well. alternative to air mattress  They don’t have the same amount of support as air mattresses, but they can be extremely comfortable and offer a lot of warmth when wrapped up with an underquilt.

Cots
Often called camping beds, cots are another solid air mattress alternative that are a little higher off the ground than air mattresses. These are typically made from metal, aluminum, or steel and are usually padded with foam for added comfort.

These cots are generally more expensive than air mattresses, but they’re more durable and easy to pack and set up. They can also be used to provide a bed for guests at home.

Futons
In Japan, futons are a popular air mattress alternative. They’re pliable, but you have to store them somewhere where they can be rolled up. They’re warmer and more comfortable than most air mattresses, but they’re not as flexible or as comfortable on hard floors (in Japan they’re often placed on soft tatami mats).

Foam Toppers
A foam topper is an excellent alternative to air mattress for many people because it’s much cheaper and more lightweight than a traditional air mattress. These are typically a few inches thick and can be cut down to your desired size.

Self-Inflating Sleeping Pads
A self-inflating pad is a great option for most people, and it’s especially popular with backcountry campers who don’t want to have to worry about carrying an air pump. These foam pads are very insulating, too, so you’ll stay warm even in winter.

If you’re looking for a really affordable air mattress alternative, the Wellax UltraThick FlexFoam Sleeping Pad is a great choice. This mat is 3 inches thick, and it’s incredibly durable, comfortable, and very portable.

Self-Inflating Sleeping Bags
A sleep bag is a great alternative to an air mattress that’s perfect for cold climates. It can be inflated and deflated easily, and it can also be strapped to a frame to be used as a stand-alone camper’s bed.