If you want a great sleep on your camping adventures, you’ll want to invest in the best mattress for camping Australia offers. Now that might sound easier than you think- just go to the local camping store and ask for the most comfortable camping mattress, right? Wrong!
You see, the thing is, while there are, of course, some great quality camping mattresses out there, at the end of the day, it’s going to come down to personal preference. So what one person thinks is the best camping mattress Australia has, someone else will have a completely different opinion.
Nevertheless, there are many factors to consider when choosing the best sleeping mattress for camping. There is a range of different types; there are cheap camping mattress options and top of the range options; there are lightweight camping mattress options and thick, luxurious ones.
So if you’re on the hunt for a good camping mattress, this guide will be a great place to start. This guide will take you through everything you need to consider to ensure you purchase the comfiest camping mattress for you.
Also, in the best camping mattress review section, I’ll take you through some of the very best top rated camping mattress options currently on the Aussie market.
So let’s get into it and find you a comfy camping mattress!
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Our Pick for the Best Mattress for Camping Australia 2024: Oztrail 3D Fatmat
If you don’t have time to read this entire guide and just want to hear our recommendation for a top camping mattress, we recommend the Oztrail 3D Fatmat mattress. The Oztrail 3D fatmat self inflating mats are fairly expensive, but they are top quality self inflating mattresses designed to provide you with a great night’s sleep. Plus, they are lightweight and pack up compactly, so they are easy to transport.
Read our full Oztrail 3D Fatmat review below or click here to buy now.
Best Camping Mattress Australia 2024 Comparison Table
Below is a handy comparison table for you to see all the best rated camping mattress options reviewed in this guide and their features side by side.
For further details on these options, keep reading below.
| Name | Image | Type | Sizes/Options Available | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Coleman All Terrain Double High |  | Air Mattress | Queen or XL Single | Check Price |
| Intex Dura Beam Deluxe Air Mattress |  | Air Mattress | Queen | Check Price |
| Intex Dura Beam Deluxe |  | Air Mattress | Queen | Check Price |
| Oztrail Majesty |  | Air Mattress | Queen or Double | Check Price |
| Oztrail Fatmat |  | Self Inflating Mattress | Queen or Single | Check Price |
| BlackWolf Hexatherm 3D |  | Self Inflating Mattress | Queen or Single | Check Price |
| Dune 4WD Mat Grey |  | Self Inflating Mattress | Queen, Double, or Single | Check Price |
| Oztrail Leisure |  | Self Inflating Mattress | Queen, Double or King Single | Check Price |
| Oztrail Swag |  | Foam Mat | 75mm standard or jumbo and 50mm standard or jumbo | Check Price |
| Oztrail Earth Mat |  | Foam Mat | 10mm or 20mm | Check Price |
How to Choose the Best Camping Mattresses
As we said up front, there is quite a bit to think about when it comes to finding the most comfortable camping bed. So to ensure you purchase one of the comfy camping beds that’s perfect for you – do yourself a favour and take some time to consider the below factors.
Types of Camping Mattress
When it comes to the best mattress for tent camping, the first thing you’ll need to decide is what type of mattress you want. The three main types you have to choose from are air mattresses, self inflating mattresses and foam camping mats or pads. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages, which I’ll briefly cover below.
Camping Air Mattress
Perhaps the most common type of camping mattress is the air mattress. As the name suggests, a camping air mattress is filled with air, either inflated by a pump or the old fashion method – by blowing air into them by mouth.
Camping air beds tend to be among some of the cheapest types of mattresses you can purchase for camping, although having said that, you can get some pretty top quality air mattresses that come at a pretty penny.
A cheap inflatable camping mattress will have you bopping along, like you’re on a boat, then finding yourself pretty much on the ground halfway through the night as the air slowly comes out.
On the other end, the best air mattresses for camping come with multiple layers, which have you higher off the ground and provide more stability, so you’re not bopping all over the place. We’ve been sleeping on an All Terrain Coleman camping mattress for a few years now and can’t believe how stable it is.
A great advantage of a camping air bed is they do tend to be lighter, cheaper and pack up more compactly than even the best self inflating mattress. However, most people say they are not as comfortable, plus you need something to pump them up with. Some are a real pain to inflate too, and can be almost impossible to deflate – at least when you want them to deflate anyway. Plus, if you get a puncture in your blow up camping mattress while camping, you’re in real trouble!
Read our full guide on choosing an air mattress here.
Self Inflating Mattresses
Self inflating mattresses are growing more and more popular these days. Anyone serious about their camping or away for many nights at a time tends to have a self inflatable air mattress or, at the very least, have one on their to buy list.
A self inflatable camping bed is filled with an open cell foam that expands and fills with air when the valve is opened. Compared to a camping blow up mattress, the best self inflating camping mattress feels cushier due to the foam inside instead of the air. However, this is also why a self inflating mattress is heavier and bulkier. A camping self inflating air mattress is also really expensive compared to even your very best camping air mattress.
If your budget allows it, and space is not an issue – then a self inflating mattress is the way to go every time. As well as for tent camping, an inflating mattress is popular for those after the best swag mattress Australia has, the best camper trailer mattress Australia has, and the best caravan mattress Australia has.
Read our full guide on choosing a self inflating mattress here.
Foam Mats / Pads
The final option is a foam mat or pad. These camping mattresses are made with a closed cell foam and don’t require inflation of any kind to set up. All you need to do is unroll the mat, and away you go.
The big advantage of a mattress pad for camping is they are relatively cheap, lightweight and there is no risk of a puncture. The downside? Even the best sleeping mat is really uncomfortable! Foam mats are so thin that most people will feel pretty much like they are sleeping directly on the ground.
I’d only buy a foam mat for camping if you’re hiking to your campsite and need to carry all your gear with you. Otherwise, if you value a good night’s sleep, do yourself a favour and buy either an air mattress or a self inflating mattress.
Size
Ok, now you’ve decided what type of mattress is the best tent mattress for you, you’ll need to consider what size mattress you need. In terms of camping mattress sizes, while most come in your typical single, double, queen or king, you might want to double check the actual dimensions because they might not be your standard sizes despite what size they say they are.
The main issue tends to be for those on the tall size, as some mattresses short change you lengthwise. I’m sure you don’t want your tootsies hanging off the end of the mattress.
Also, while we are talking about the size of the mattress, you might want to consider your weight as well. Some mattresses, particularly air mattresses, will have a weight capacity. You certainly don’t want to wake up in the middle of the night on the ground because your weight is too much for your air mattress.
Weight and Packed Size
You’ll also want to consider how much space you have to transport your camping mattress. If you don’t have a lot of space, you’ll want to consider either an air mattress or a foam mat. If space is no issue, invest in the best inflatable mattress for camping you can afford.
Even within mattress types, the weight and size can vary quite a lot. So don’t just purchase one thinking you’ll easily be able to throw a few of them in the back of the car. Instead, do your homework and ensure you’ve got plenty of space to transport the mattresses you’re thinking about.
Durability
Once you’ve considered all the above, you might also want to think about durability – basically, how long do you want it to last? And this often comes down to how much you want to spend.
If you want your camping mattress to last more than one camping trip, you’ll want to invest a bit of cash upfront. Sure, you can buy some dirt cheap camping mattresses, but you’ll have to replace them every few trips, and they won’t be comfortable anyway – so what’s the point?
For comfy camping beds that will last, look for ones with thick fabrics. The best way to do this is to check the denier rating – usually, you’ll see something like 150D. Basically, the higher the number, the more durable the fabric and the less likely you’ll get a puncture or tear.
Mattress Insulation
While you think a mattress is just for sleeping on, it can also contribute to your overall level of warmth. The mattress’s ability to insulate you from the cold ground is measured in R-value, and the higher the number, the warmer you’ll be.
If you’re only camping in the middle of summer, this may be less important to you. But if you’re camping during the colder months, it’s definitely worth paying attention to it. If you want something good for year round (except in extremely cold weather), look for something around an R value of 3. For super cold weather, you’ll want something 5 and above.
Another way to boost your insulation is by adding a foam pad under either your air mattress or self inflatable mattress. This will provide a barrier between the ground and your mattress.
Ease of Inflation and Deflation
This one doesn’t apply to a foam mat but is important to consider for those after an air mattress or self inflating mattress. Usually, you’ll find that how easy a mattress is to inflate and deflate is pretty much matched to the price. So the more expensive, the easier it will be to inflate.
While you’ll generally just want the one inflation point, a camping mattress with multiple deflation points helps with packing up. I just don’t get how easy air can escape from a mattress during the night, but when it’s pack up time, it seems to take forever!
Another thing to look out for is a camping air mattress with built in pump. This is so good for those after an air mattress. No need to bring a separate pump just for blowing up the bed or having to cart the bed over to the power so you can plug in your pump.
Gosh, back in the day, I used to just have an air pump that plugged into my car cigarette lighter, and I’d somehow have this double air mattress IN the car being pumped – crazy!
The Best Camping Mattress Review Australia 2024
Ok, so hopefully, you now have a better idea of what type of camping mattress you’re after. To help you find the perfect mattress, below we’ve taken a closer look at some of the best camping mattresses currently on the Aussie market.
All Terrain Double High Coleman Camping Air Mattress Review
First up is the All Terrain Double High Coleman camping air mattress. We’ve had this air mattress for a few years now, and as far as air beds go, we’re impressed. It’s rugged, lightweight and surprisingly compact when folded up.
The Coleman All Terrain range of air mattresses are made with their puncture guard bonded fabric which is said to be 47% more puncture resistant, 25% more stretch resistant, and 30% lighter than your standard Coleman airbed. Plus, with its double lock, it is also said to be leak free – so no more waking up in the middle of the night on the ground.
To ensure you’re comfortable throughout the night, these air mattresses feature a network of coils that provide better support, a bonded fabric surface that ensures the air stays in place and a top layer of brushed polyester over the laminated PVC. Plus, the additional height makes getting in and out of the bed that much easier.
We have the queen size mattress, which is lightweight at just 5kg and surprisingly compact too, just roll it up and tuck it away in the built in storage pocket. This compact travel air mattress is also the perfect size for your standard sheets.
As well as the queen size, these Coleman All Terrain air mattresses also come in a single high version in either an XL single or queen size.
If you’re looking for the best air mattresses for camping, these are certainly a great one to consider.
Click here for more information and to check current pricing.
Intex Dura-Beam Deluxe Air Mattress Review
The Intex Dura-Beam Deluxe air mattress with Headboard is almost identical to the Intex Dura-Beam Deluxe, except for the inclusion of an inflatable headboard and the bed being slightly lower. So, if you’re after the best of the best when it comes to air mattresses, then you’re going to want the Intex Dura-Beam Deluxe with headboard. This is in the higher price range of mattresses in these air bed reviews, but it is also top quality and comes with a built-in pump for easy inflation.
These quality air beds for camping are made with heavy-duty 2-ply laminated sidewalls and bases and feature a soft velvety top. For the ultimate comfort, the mattress’s top has hundreds of interconnected air pockets, and the mattress is made with high-strength polyester fibers that do not stretch over time, resulting in long-lasting support and durability. Plus, the elevated height of this inflatable mattress camping bed makes it easy to get in and out of.
With the built-in 220-240V pump, you can inflate it pretty much anywhere; plus, it comes with a firmness control dial and even a handy USB port! In addition, you don’t even need to hang around while the mattress is inflated, as the pump will automatically turn off after 5.5 minutes, which is the average time the mattress inflates. And if you don’t have access to power, don’t worry, as you can also use a manual pump with the mattress.
This Intex camping air mattress can hold up to almost 270kgs, so this is great if you’re after the strongest air mattress for camping or the best camping air mattress for a heavy person. Other great features of this best air bed Australia has include a carry bag for easy transporting and a built-in storage compartment for cords and small personal items.
If you’re after the best cheap air mattress for camping, the Intex Dura-Beam Deluxe with headboard is not for you! However, if you’re looking for the most durable air mattress for camping that’s guaranteed to give a great night’s sleep, this top-quality mattress is one to consider.
Click here for more information and to check current pricing.
Intex Dura-Beam Deluxe Camping Air Mattress with Built in Pump Review
If you’re after the best of the best when it comes to air mattresses, then you’re going to want the Intex Dura-Beam Deluxe Comfort-Plush High-Rise Air Mattress. This is the higher price range of mattresses in these air bed reviews, but it is also top quality and comes with a built-in pump for easy inflation.
These quality air beds for camping are made with heavy-duty 2-ply laminated sidewalls and bases and feature a soft velvety top. For the ultimate comfort, the mattress’s top has hundreds of interconnected air pockets, and the mattress is made with high-strength polyester fibers that do not stretch over time, resulting in long-lasting support and durability. Plus, the elevated height of this inflatable mattress camping bed makes it easy to get in and out of.
With the built-in 220-240V pump, you can inflate it pretty much anywhere; plus, it comes with a firmness control dial and even a handy USB port! In addition, you don’t even need to hang around while the mattress is inflated, as the pump will automatically turn off after 5.5 minutes, which is the average time the mattress inflates. And if you don’t have access to power, don’t worry, as you can also use a manual pump with the mattress.
This Intex camping air mattress is one of the strongest air mattress for camping or the best camping air mattress for a heavy person. Other great features of this air bed is a carry bag for easy transporting and a built-in storage compartment for cords and small personal items.
If you’re after the best cheap air mattress for camping, the Intex Dura-Beam Deluxe is not for you! However, if you’re looking for the most durable air mattress for camping that’s guaranteed to give a great night’s sleep, this top-quality mattress is one to consider.
Click here for more information and to check current pricing.
Oztrail Majesty Air Mattress Review
If you’re after a good quality air mattress with a built in pump but don’t want to spend a fortune, consider one from the Oztrail Majesty Air mattress range. These are the most affordable inflatable mattresses with a built in pump in these reviews.
These blow up beds are made from durable PVC and feature a soft velour top. Despite being a cheaper mattress with built in pump, it still comes with a range of great features to ensure a good night’s sleep, including a boxed wall with inner coil construction for excellent back support, and there are different air zones to absorb movement which helps avoid that “on the ocean” feel.
The built in pump is a standard 240V which will inflate your mattress with ease. Plus, it’s lightweight at just 6kg for a mattress with a built-in pump. Other features of this best lightweight camping mattress include easy to clean, soft surface, an included repair kit in the unlikely event of a puncture and the option of a double or a queen size. A 12 month warranty is also included with your purchase.
So if you’re looking for affordable mattresses with a built in pump, these Oztrail Majesty air mattresses are well worth considering. You’ll be hard pressed to find anything cheaper.
Click here for more information and to check current pricing.
Oztrail 3D Fatmat Self Inflating Mattress Review
The Oztrail 3D Fatmat is a medium to high priced self-inflating mattress. This is the best self-inflating mattress in this guide.
The mattress is made with a 75D fabric stretch pongee (base), and a 30D material on the sides and top. The material is coated with TPU for increased durability and flexibility. The inside of the mattress is made of high-density open cell cross-cored memory foam.
The Oztrail mattress is a substantial 15cm thick, providing great comfort and insulation. Despite its size, it only weighs 8Kg and packs down to 75 x 48 x 33 cm.
The 360° double-way valve makes it easy to both inflate and deflate. Simply open the valve, and the mat will begin to self-inflate without any air escaping. Included with the mattress is a carry bag with compression straps and a repair kit. The Oztrail 3D Fatmat is available in Queen and Single.
This is a great choice for those who want the best self-inflating mattress on the market and don’t mind paying a bit more for it. The mattress also comes with a 12-month warranty.
Click here for more information and to check current pricing.
BlackWolf Hexatherm 3D Self Inflating Mats Review
Another top option for a self inflating mattress is the BlackWolf Hexatherm 3D self inflating mats. BlackWolf mattresses are super popular, and this 3D option is no expectation, particularly when it comes to comfort.
These 3D self inflating mattresses are excellent for a great night’s sleep thanks to their body conforming design. The BlackWolf self inflating mattress features a Therma-cell covered foam inside, which is awesome at ensuring the mattress is not overly heavy (it weighs just 5.5kg) and provides great cushioning and a warm place to sleep. The mat is 10 cm thick and is made from a 100D stretch fabric with a TPU coating and a non slip base.
Setting up the Black Wolf self inflating mattress is easy with the super fast inflation thanks to the large valve. The mattress also comes with a pump sack in case you need extra inflation and a repair kit in the unlikely event you sprung a leak. The included carry bag even doubles as an air pump, so you can add extra air manually if required.
You can’t go wrong with the BlackWolf Hexatherm 3D Self Inflating mattress if you’re after a great priced queen self inflating camping mattress. It also comes in the option of a single size if you’re after one for the kids.
Click here for more information and to check current pricing.
Dune 4WD Mat Grey Self Inflating Mattress Review
The Dune 4WD Mat Grey self-inflating mattress, which comes in multiple sizes and is one of the cheapest self-inflating mattresses in these reviews.
The Dune self-inflating mattress is made with a heavy PVC bottom, with Velour fabric on top for comfort. The inside of the mattress uses high-density cell foam and inflates to 10cm high, so you can rest assured of a great sleep. The thickness adds a bit of weight to the Dune mattress at 8.8kg for the Queen.
The Dune self-inflating mattress is quick to inflate and deflate with four ports for the Queen and Double, and 2 for the single. Plus, you can blow in a bit of added air if need be. This self-inflatable air bed also comes with compression straps, a heavy-duty carry bag, a repair kit, and a one-year warranty.
So if you’re after an affordable self-inflatable mattress, Dune is certainly one you must consider.
Click here for more information and to check current pricing.
Oztrail Leisure Self Inflating Mats Review
OZtrail also makes its own self inflating mats which come in a range of sizes suitable for every family member.
The Oztrail Leisure self inflating mats feature high density open cell foam for excellent support and a good night’s sleep, and the brushed velour outer makes for a soft place to lay. They are also quick to inflate and deflate with the two way flip valves and large air channels. Plus, the valves won’t allow air to escape, even if left open or the mattress has a puncture.
This queen size has the same dimensions as the previous Wanderer queen, yet it is the standard 10cm thick as opposed to the Wanderer’s luxurious 12cm thickness. It’s also surprisingly heavier at 10kg. So if weight is an essential factor to you, consider the previous Zempire or BlackWolf mattresses.
These mattresses also come with storage straps, a repair kit, a carry bag and a 1 year warranty.
As well as this queen size mattress, the Oztrail Leisure self inflating mattresses come in the option of a double or king single size.
Click here for more information and to check current pricing.
Oztrail Swag Mats Review
Another option for a camping mattress is a swag mattress like these Oztrail Swag mats. These come in a thicknesses of 70mm. They are lightweight and pack up compactly, making them an excellent option for those after the best compact camping mattress or even a swag mattress replacement.
These are high density, open cell foam mattresses with a soft polyester upper surface. The easy-wipe base avoids dampness from the ground coming into the mattresses.
Choose between 70mm in either a standard size mattresses 90cm in width, while the jumbo is slightly wider at 140cm. The mattresses are really lightweight too, at around 4kgs and for easy transporting, the mats come with a webbing strap with D ring locks.
While these swag mats may not be as comfortable as the above self inflating mattresses, they certainly are a great option if you’re after something cheap, compact and lightweight for your camping trips.
Click here for more information and to check current pricing.
Oztrail Earth Mats Review
If you’re just after the best hiking sleeping mat that will provide some level of comfort during the night, then take a look at the Oztrail Earth mats. These mats are super lightweight and compact, so easy to carry on your next hiking camping trip.
These mats come in two thicknesses, either 1cm or 2cm – so you’re obviously not going to have the best night’s sleep on this foam mat, but it will undoubtedly provide a sound barrier between the ground and your sleeping bag. They pack down super compactly though, at either 15 x 50 cm or 28cm x 65cm for the thicker mat – so they’re easy to carry attached to your backpack. Plus, they are crazy lightweight at just 410g or 1.1kg for the thicker mat – so they won’t drag you down if hiking to your camp spot.
While I certainly don’t recommend these mats for anyone looking for a great night’s sleep, if you’re after the best camping mat for your hiking camping trips, you can’t go wrong with this one from Oztrail.
Click here for more information and to check current pricing.
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We hope you found this guide to camping mattresses helpful. If you need help choosing other camping gear, we have various guides, including sleeping bags, camping fridges and more.
