Generally, shoppers have two options—low-profile and double-height—both of which have their own set of pros and cons. While low-profile mattresses are lightweight and portable enough to bring on a camping trip, they might require extra legwork as they may deflate quickly. A taller, double-height mattress may not be ideal for every situation, but these models typically come with an electric pump to make inflation a little easier.
To start, we assessed the initial assembly of each wagon, noting any particular frustrations, as well as any extra tools that were required. (Because none of the wagons were especially difficult to put together, we did not make this a major criterion.) We also looked at how easy each wagon was to fold and pick up, and to store in a small space. This versatile, light, easy-to-use wagon totes everything across different types of terrain and folds up to a compact, easy-to-carry size.
During testing, we were big fans of the mattresses that had adjustable firmness settings built into their pumps. Our best adjustable air mattress, the BeautyRest SkyRise Air Mattress, has a button built into the air pump hole that allows you to release air gradually for just the right amount of comfort. Other models feature pumps that allow you to set your desired firmness level and then inflate the mattress. Our team of editors and testers spent 12 hours testing ten air mattresses in The Lab. We timed how long each one took to inflate (and also deflate for storage), how loud the pump was, and how simple and convenient the setup process was in general.
The research also relied heavily on firsthand testing reports from the lab, where we tested 10 air mattresses for their stability, support, durability, portability, and more. Our recommendations all use electric pumps for faster ozark trail canopy inflation and deflation, and most have a built-in pump to further simplify the process. Just like any other type of mattress, you should decide how high you want your air mattress to be before you browse through options.
Its folded dimensions are 37 by 20 by 14 inches (with the big wheels removed, the folded height of the body is actually 8 inches). The Veer and the Pivot Xplore both have similar dimensions when folded down, but because of their different shapes, the Veer feels a bit bulkier when folded. The Veer also has a dedicated foot well for kids’ feet (none of our other picks have this).
Saryn Chorney, a sustainable lifestyle and eco-travel writer, worked with travel editors and pulled from her own camping experiences, including a three-week road trip across the U.S. Outdoor gear expert Nathan Allen also contributed his expertise when compiling this list. Whether you’re camping out under the stars, snug in a tent, hanging in a hammock, or cozy inside your RV, the first factor to consider when choosing a bag is the temperature and your overall campsite environment. A sleeping bag that keeps you cool in the summer might not withstand a dipping fall thermostat, let alone frigid winter weather.