Inflation: There are two kinds of air beds: those that have a built-in pump and those that require an external pump. This is something you need to consider when choosing an air bed, as you need to figure out what you’d rather. As you can imagine, a self-inflating air bed is much easier to use on a regular basis - but it’ll also be more expensive.

Like anything filled with pressurised air, these mattresses are susceptible to springing a leak . Air beds do tend to lose air naturally and gradually anyway. If you notice a rapid loss, there could be a hole somewhere. But where? Follow these steps to help detect the source of the problem: Choose how to inflate: Air beds have a variety of ways to inflate - from self-inflating and built-in pumps to manual inflation, which can require some physical effort with either a foot pump, hand pump or electric pump. When purchasing the bed, this is something to bear in mind, particularly if you need to buy an air pump alongside it. They roll up small, similar to your average yoga mat and are extremely light. Some people might find them too thin and firm. However, note that they can also be used with a camp bed base for an off-the-ground set-up. Air beds follow the same sizing rules as regular mattresses, but they can feel a bit smaller based on their level of inflation. There’s a good selection of choices online when it comes to choosing the right air bed for a good night’s sleep. “At Decathlon, we’ve seen a 190 per cent increase in demand for airbeds compared to last year,” reports Chris Allen, Outdoor expert at Decathlon. “Our ultimate comfort one-person mattress saw a four-fold increase in popularity, which perhaps highlights the fact that we’re craving more stress-free, maximum-comfort holidays.” Once you find the hole, circle it gently with a permanent marker so you don’t lose it and then deflate it.According to Lauren Fountain from the Sleep Foundation, to fix the leak, you’ll need to locate the hole and then clean the area. She goes on to say you then need to “use an adhesive and some plastic or vinyl patches to cover the leak” and “after letting the patch set for several hours, you can test the patch to ensure the mattress is no longer leaking”. This depends on how much your budget will stretch. There are three main types of pumps: a foot pump, an integrated pump or an electric pump. The majority of the top of the range airbeds come with a rechargeable or mains-operated integrated pump. They will also have a remote control that can inflate and deflate the mattress within a matter of seconds. Home Comfort & Support: Fitted with 5 I Beams and an integrated raised pillow, this air bed provides the same luxurious comfort as your bed at home. Why not explore our range of all-in-one air beds which feature an air mattress, a pillow and a sleeping bag? You'll still need to make sure you've brought an air pump. Go for a foot pump or an ultra-efficient electric air pump, the choice is yours. And if you're looking for separate sleeping bags, then we’ve got a great variety of those too. One of the most common worries for would-be campers is whether they’ll be able to get a good night’s sleep in a tent – after all, a family holiday or a festival weekend isn’t much fun if you’re not getting proper rest. And the best way to make sure you sleep well in the great outdoors is on a decent air bed.

Of course, a SIM isn't the only alternative. We'd also recommend the best sofa beds and the best chair beds for something more permanent and stylish. How easy is it to inflate and deflate an air mattress?Most good air beds come with their own fixing kit. Each kit’s instructions may vary so be sure to read them carefully.