Camp Airbeds & Stretchers
Camp Airbeds & Stretchers NZ
A good night's sleep at camp starts with the right sleeping surface. Dwights stocks a full range of camping air mattresses, self-inflating mats, and folding stretchers — from budget-friendly single airbeds to queen-size options for family camping.
Airbed Types
- Pump-up airbeds: Maximum comfort for car camping. Available in king single, double and queen sizes. Use a pump (electric or manual) to inflate.
- Self-inflating mats: Open the valve and they partially inflate themselves — top up by mouth. Great for car camping and casual trips.
- Stretcher frames: Elevated sleeping keeps you off cold ground. Fold flat for transport. Popular for family camping and extended stays.
For tramping, see our sleeping mats range — lighter and more packable than airbeds.
Choosing the Right Option
The right choice depends on how you're camping and how far you're carrying it. For car camping at a holiday park or DOC campsite with vehicle access, a full-size pump-up airbed is the most comfortable option — queen and double sizes give you proper bed-level comfort. For camping where you're walking even a short distance to your site, a self-inflating mat is the smarter call: lighter, more packable, and no pump required. Stretchers suit those who prefer to be elevated off the ground — particularly useful on uneven or cold terrain — and fold down compactly for easy car transport.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the most comfortable camping bed option?
For car camping with no weight restrictions, a queen or double pump-up airbed gives you the closest experience to sleeping at home. Look for a raised height of at least 40cm — lower airbeds are harder to get in and out of and feel less substantial. A built-in electric pump that inflates and deflates at the press of a button is worth the small extra cost. Pair with a quality sleeping bag and you'll sleep as well as you do at home.
Are camping stretchers better than airbeds?
It depends on your priorities. Stretchers keep you elevated off the ground — which helps with cold, damp, or uneven terrain — and don't go flat overnight. They're also more durable long-term. Airbeds provide more cushioning and are warmer (insulation from the ground matters). Many experienced campers use a stretcher for the elevation benefit with a self-inflating mat on top for insulation and comfort — the best of both.
What size airbed do I need?
Single and king single airbeds suit solo campers in standard dome tents. Double and queen sizes are ideal for couples or anyone who values space — check your tent's internal dimensions before buying, as a queen airbed fills most 4-person dome tent floor space. If you're camping in a large inflatable or family tent with a dedicated bedroom section, a queen size is the obvious choice.
Do I need a pump for an airbed?
Yes, unless it's self-inflating or has a built-in pump. Manual foot pumps are included with most Dwights airbeds and work fine. An electric pump (12V car adapter or rechargeable battery) inflates a queen airbed in 2–3 minutes and is a worthwhile upgrade if you camp regularly. For deflation, a pump with a reverse function saves time considerably.
How do I stop an airbed going flat overnight?
Some pressure loss overnight is normal — airbeds contract slightly as temperatures drop. A top-up in the morning takes 30 seconds. If the airbed is significantly flat by morning, check the valve is fully closed and inspect the seams and surface with soapy water for slow leaks. Patch kits are included with Dwights airbeds. Avoid over-inflating — a drum-tight airbed is more likely to stress the seams and puncture.
How do I care for a camping airbed?
Wipe down with a damp cloth after use and dry completely before packing away — storing it damp causes mildew. Always pack on a clean surface to avoid punctures from debris. Store loosely rather than tightly rolled, which stresses the seams over time. Keep out of direct sunlight during extended storage — UV degrades the PVC material. The patch kit that comes with your airbed handles most minor punctures in a few minutes.