The beauty of an air mattress is its ability to provide a temporary sleep space at an ultra low cost, but it certainly has its drawbacks. It’s possible you want something more supportive and contouring like a foldable foam mattress—or you want to take the pragmatic approach and invest in a sofa bed. To point you in the right direction, we’ve rounded up the best air mattress alternatives that offer proper support and comfort without costing an arm and a leg.
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One of the best air mattress alternatives is the Lucid Rollaway Cot mattress.
ILLUSTRATION: FORBES / PHOTO: RETAILERAlternatives include our top pick, the Best Price mattress topper, a comfy cot and a sofa bed. Just like the best air mattresses, shoppers rate them highly for their comfort, durability and overall value for money. And while we still suggest browsing our general best mattresses guide for permanent sleeping arrangements, we include advice from Dr. Matthew Cavanaugh of Cavanaugh Chiropractic on how to make your air mattress alternative feel more comfortable and longer-lasting.
Amazon
Material: Memory foam, high density foam and a 100% poly jacquard cover | Sizes: Standard sizes (twin to king) plus select RV sizes | Warranty: 3 years
This Best Price trifold mattress is the best air mattress alternative if you want a comfortable and convenient sleeping solution that doesn’t take up too much space in your home—or put a major dent in your wallet. This is technically a mattress topper, which is meant to be placed on top of a proper bed—but at four inches thick, most adults find it comfortable enough to use on the floor.
It has 1.5 inches of memory foam plus 2.5 inches of high density foam, yielding a combo of sink-in softness and stable support. Everything’s wrapped in a polyester jacquard cover with a slip-proof bottom to keep the mattress in place; however, it’s not machine-washable. A foldable design makes it simple to store when it’s not in use. It'd also be great for camping and road trips, although a storage bag would make it more convenient for travel.
What the reviews say: This Amazon shopper bought one for family visits and claims, “They prefer to sleep on this trifold on the floor [rather than] the sofa sleeper.” Says another 5-star review: “These mattresses are so nice. We bought them for our grandsons when they sleep over. So much better and warmer than blow-ups.”
Amazon
Material: Gel-infused memory foam with a poly-blend cover | Sizes: Standard sizes (twin to king) plus short queen | Warranty: 3 years
If you’re on a stricter budget, pick up this memory foam mattress topper from Linenspa. Choose between a 2 or 3-inch depth, with the taller size offering a little more plushness. It’s infused with cooling gel to help disperse heat, while the polyester-blend cover adds breathability. Better yet, you can unzip the cover and throw it in the wash if it gets dirty.
The Linenspa mattress topper arrives vacuum-sealed so you’ll need to give it some time to fully inflate, roughly 24 to 48 hours. Unlike the Best Price option above, you can’t fold this mattress pad in half when you’re done with it—you can either roll it up or store it flat. In addition to standard bed sizes, there’s also a short queen for RVs or a smaller bedroom.
What the reviews say: The Linenspa mattress topper is an Amazon best-seller—and there are over 100,000 reviews explaining why. “Fantastic value, very comfortable. Even slept well on a hardwood floor,” claims one satisfied customer. Beams another: “I got it for guests to sleep on and they could not stop raving. Very soft if you're into that sort of thing.”
Amazon
Material: Memory foam mattress and alloy steel frame | Sizes: Cot, twin and twin XL | Warranty: 10 years
A rollaway bed is a savvy solution if you’re short on space yet don’t want your guests to sleep directly on the floor. Our favorite is the Lucid Rollaway Folding Guest Bed, which has an alloy steel frame with an 11-inch clearance underneath for storing luggage. No need to buy a mattress because it already has a 4-inch memory foam mattress with a bamboo rayon cover. When your guests leave, simply fold the bed into an unobtrusive 10.5-inch profile and roll it into storage.
The Lucid rollaway bed has a weight capacity of 350 pounds so you’ll be able to easily accommodate most guests. It also comes in twin and twin XL sizes if you if you’d prefer a slightly wider sleep surface (and want an easier time buying bed sheets). For peace of mind, a 10-year warranty applies.
What the reviews say: ”Better than an air mattress,” says one enthusiastic shopper. “I needed this bed because my ‘man-sized’ grandsons were coming for a visit. Was worried about how sturdy it was but after sleeping on it myself, I was impressed.” This customer, who claims to have “spent hundreds” on air mattresses, was so pleased with this cot, they “ended up buying four of them.”
Amazon
Material: 100% cotton, polyurethane foam and polyester | Sizes: Twin to king | Warranty: N/A
Japanese style futons are another great option for hosting guests with limited room. This one from FULI has a breathable 100% cotton cover with layers of foam and polyester for a medium-level firmness. Once you’re done, just fold it up and store it in a dry place. You can’t pop this mattress in the washer or dryer. Instead, you have to take it outside and beat the dust out of it occasionally.
The FULI futon mattress comes in six sizes, from twin to king. While it’s usable on a hardwood floor, most people like to have a small buffer between the floor. Traditional futon mattresses are typically paired with tatami (bamboo) mats, although a yoga mat or a rug could do the job just as well.
What the reviews say: According to one 5-star review, “This is no doubt a perfect substitute for an air mattress and better than the vast majority of beds I've slept on.” And if you want further proof of how much people like this futon: “I got this for a guest I had coming and didn't want to inflate an air mattress. They were on it for 2 weeks, and at the end, offered me what I paid to keep it.”
Walmart.com
Material: Linen, foam, metal and wood | Size: 70.9 inches x 26 inches (in bed mode) | Warranty: 6 months
The SEJOV Convertible Sofa Bed is a smart choice if you want to blend practicality with style in cramped quarters. Unlike a standard sofa bed, this one has four different configurations, which include an ottoman and a chaise lounge. In bed mode, it measures roughly 70.9 inches x 26 inches—roughly the size of a standard cot. It also has a max weight capacity of 350 pounds.
One nice touch is the 5-step adjustable backrest so guests can have the option of sleeping flat or propped up. There are also side storage pockets for remote controls, bottles of water, or other small necessities. Whether you live in a studio or a dorm, the SEJOV Convertible Sofa Bed makes it possible for you to comfortably host a family member or friend.
What the reviews say: One customer says it’s “excellent for my studio” because “living in the city means limited space, and this sofa bed is a perfect fit that doesn't compromise on comfort.” Speaking of comfort, this shopper notes, “The pillows provided with this sofa bed offer excellent support. Whether I'm sitting or sleeping, it's a comfortable experience.”
At Forbes Vetted, we understand that good sleep is essential for your health, no matter where you are. That’s why we’re committed to expanding our library of sleep and mattress stories, which include in-depth product reviews, expert interviews and trending topics.
Oh, and we know a thing or two about sleep ourselves. Not only do we immerse ourselves in research, our staff boasts years of professional mattress testing experience courtesy of senior mattress editor Bridget Chapman, mattress editor McKenzie Dillon, executive strategy editor Lindsay Boyers and senior strategy editor Katie Simpson. Contributor (and author of this story) Alison Barretta also has formal sleep product review experience.
To supplement our knowledge, we tapped Dr. Matthew Cavanaugh of Cavanaugh Chiropractic to offer a medical perspective for this piece.
We considered the most common air mattress alternatives and searched the best sellers for each. From there, we vetted verified reviews for insight on comfort and support, value for money and durability. After weighing the pros and cons, we chose an overall winner plus four runners up. All of our top picks boast overall customer ratings of at least 4 stars (out of 5).
A majority of products our list are for indoor use only, either in a building or an RV. For outdoor camping trips, the Lucid Rollaway Folding Guest Bed is your best bet—or look at the much more affordable MalloMe Sleeping Bag, which is an Amazon best-seller.
Whether you need something for camping trips or want a guest bed on standby at home, you’ll want to choose a mattress that’ll make most sleepers feel comfortable. If your air mattress alternative is meant for regular use, spending a little extra cash yields better comfort and more longevity.
How much free space do you have in your home to convert into a decent extra sleeping area? Moreover, how much storage space can you space? Air mattresses and other temporary beds take up more room in your home, either way. A popular workaround for limited space is a sleeper sofa, which doubles as a seating area and folds out into a bed only when you need it. (This is generally an expensive option, too.)
Air mattresses sit directly on the ground without a frame, although they’re higher than most folding mattresses, sleeping bags and Japanese-style futons. Still, if you or your guests prefer to have a buffer, go for a cot or sleeper sofa, which have frames that sit off the ground. (They’ll also be more supportive for larger individuals.)
Also consider materials. Memory foam mattresses are excellent for contouring relief, while spring-based bedshave firmer support. If shopping for a bed to use outdoors, look for something that can withstand a multitude of weather conditions.
Did you know we spend one-third of our lives sleeping? That's why it's so important to have a good sleep surface for your overnight guests. Air mattresses are typically the go-to option for temporary sleeping arrangements when you don't have extra guest beds. Sure, they can be a great solution in a pinch, but they don't inspire quite a lot of confidence from your guests. After all, who wakes up refreshed after sleeping on the floor because their air mattress deflated in the middle of the night?
Not to worry though, there's hope! From sofa beds to murphy beds and beyond, there are plenty of alternatives you can use when you're short on space but still want to make your guests feel right at home. In this article we explore the world of air mattress alternatives, so you can make sure your guests have the comfiest possible sleepover - no matter how few beds you have.
Why Are Mattresses Difficult
Air mattresses may sound cozy, but living it can be a different story. Sure, it's nice to have a comfortable place to lay down for the night—as long as that place is actually comfy, and stays that way. Unfortunately, air mattresses come with some pretty deflating cons.
Not only do they take up too much room, but they often lose air during the night, so you end up battling against the dreaded sagging mattress or find yourself rolling off the edges. Bye-bye comfortable sleep—hello terrible rest. And let's face it: if your body isn't getting good rest overnight then all of those lovely benefits of a good snooze like improved cognitive function and physical health. It's not happening.
Air Mattress Alternatives With No Weight Limits
An air mattress can be a great solution for sleeping arrangements when you are limited on space or have guests visiting. But they tend to have lighter weight limits that can cause them to sag in the middle or make it difficult for two people to sleep together. Thankfully, there are plenty of alternatives to an air mattress that will provide a comfortable night’s sleep for all sizes and spaces!
Air Mattress Alternatives
If you're looking for an alternative to air mattresses, don't fear! From the comfort and portability of a bean bag that can be transformed into a bed to the iconic hammock to a classic futon, there are plenty of options available.
Why settle for unreliable inflatable sleep pads when you can take a much-needed nap in luxury? Whether you want something more traditional or prefer something more eccentric, there's sure to be an option that will provide ultimate comfort after a long day.
CordaRoy’s Convertible Bean Bags
CordaRoy’s convertible bean bags are unlike any other bean bag on the market. What sets them apart from the rest is that each convertible bean bag comes complete with a bed tucked inside. These versatile chairs come in over 200 cover options, guaranteeing you can easily switch up your look anytime you like. Crafted from 100% eco-friendly polyfoam and built to last a lifetime, our bean bags also feature machine-washable and dryer-friendly fabric for easy cleaning.
Our bean bags are perfect for dorms, lofts, basements, theater rooms, and even vacation homes, but choosing the right size of bean bag simply depends on your needs. The Youth size fits two children while the Full size accommodates one adult comfortably. If a larger option is desired, both Queen and King sizes are perfect for two adults to sleep side-by-side with ease. Plus, our bean bag chairs offer maximum comfort with no weight limits or pressure points so you can be confident of a great night's sleep every time!
With competitive price and timely delivery, Changyuan sincerely hope to be your supplier and partner.
Hammocks
If you're looking for something that guarantees easy setup, quick cleanup, and optimal comfort when camping or hosting guests, look no further than CordaRoy's hammocks! Our hammocks provide a combination of quality materials, extra cords, and whipped ends (the knots at the end of the ropes that keep the ends from unraveling or fraying) for superior sturdiness and strength - surviving your wildest dreams with up to 400 lbs in weight capacity!
And yes, we do care about the planet - our organic colored cotton and recycled cotton inputs minimize the water consumption needed to produce them compared to other non-sustainable fabrics. While hammocks are great for a quick nap, they may not be as comfortable as a bed for an entire night's sleep.
A Dedicated Mattress
Imagine being a guest in someone else's home without having to worry about uncomfortable air mattresses. With a dedicated mattress for guests, you can rest easy knowing it provides maximum comfort and support for the night! The quality memory foam and pocketed coils in CordaRoy's mattresses work together to ensure that no noise or movements will disrupt your sleep.
Additionally, our mattresses use copper, graphite, and blue phase change material to ensure that heat is removed from your body quickly! So if you're looking for a mattress that will outlast the others and give you an enjoyable sleep experience, invest in one of ours. We guarantee you won't regret it -- we design products with ourselves in mind so we know they'll be perfect for you too!
Memory Foam Pads
Another great option for an air mattress alternative is memory foam pads. These are perfect for those who want the comfort of a real bed without the hassle of lugging around a bulky mattress. Keep reading for some pros and cons:
Pros:
Fits easily onto most surfaces
Provides extra cushioning for a good night’s sleep
Cons:
Can be expensive
Can be bulky and difficult to carry
Futon
If you’re looking for something that solves two needs with one purchase, futons are a great option. Whether your guests need a sleepover spot or you want to turn your home office into an extra cozy guest room - futons are always ready for a transformation. Pros and cons include:
Pros:
Can function as a couch and a bed
Come in a variety of sizes: single, double, and queen
Cons:
Futon mattresses can be thin and not as supportive
Can show wear over time from being transitioned from couch to bed
Pull Out Couch
For anyone tired of sleeping on the floor when visitors stay, a pull-out couch could be the ideal solution. Some pros and cons include:
Pros:
Space saver
Come in a variety of sizes: single, double, and queen
Cons:
Mattress can be thin and not as supportive
Heavy and bulky
A Cot
If you're looking for something that is a bit more durable than an air mattress and can be used both indoors and outdoors, a cot may be the best option. A cot usually comes with a sturdy metal frame and thicker mattress to ensure optimal comfort and support. Check out some pros and cons:
Pros:
Can be used indoors and outdoors
Lightweight for easy transport
Cons:
Cots are thin and lack support
Not easy to store
Murphy Bed
Murphy beds can be the perfect solution for the space-starved home. These pieces of furniture make it possible to pack a bed away into a wall, making it one of the top choices for tiny homes, apartments or guest rooms. Some pros and cons include:
Pros:
Can be stored against a wall to save space
Comes in a variety of sizes from twin to king
Cons:
Can be bulky and difficult to handle
Can be more expensive than other air mattress alternatives
Sleeping Bag
Sleeping bags are a great air mattress alternative for those who want to save space and money. Here are some pros and cons:
Pros:
Can be easily stored away or taken on the go
Lightweight and usually come with a carry bag
Cons:
Lack support unlike other air mattress alternatives
Can be tight and restricting as they wrap around one’s body
Conclusion
When it comes to looking for an air mattress alternative, there are a lot of options out there. From futons and pull-out couches to cots and sleeping bags, you’re sure to find something that fits your needs. Consider your space requirements, budget, and comfort level before making a decision so you can get the best sleep possible. With a little research, you can find an air mattress alternative that’s perfect for you!
Sources
We spend about one-third of our life either sleeping or attempting to do so | NIH
Why Is Sleep Important? | NIH
For more information, please visit Custom Air Mattress.