Berghaus Inflatable Air Shelter
A practical camping shelter (gazebo / event shelter) for time spent outdoors.
The Best Inflatable (Air) Tents (UK 2026)
Inflatable (air) tents replace poles with air beams you pump up - so a big family tent pitches in minutes, often by one person. Here's what to look for and our top inflatable tent picks for UK camping.
Quick answer
Vango's AirBeam range and Berghaus Air tents lead the inflatable market, pitching fast and standing sturdy in wind. You pump the beams up rather than threading poles, which makes big tents far quicker and easier to erect. They cost more than poled equivalents and you'll want the pump handy, but the speed and ease are a major draw for families.
What to look for
With air tents, check the pitching (single inflation point is easiest), the beam durability and whether a pump is included. Otherwise the essentials apply: enough space and headroom, a good hydrostatic head (3000mm+), and family features like blackout bedrooms and a living area. Treat the beams a bit like an airbed - watch for punctures and carry a repair kit.
How we pick
We rate inflatable tents on pitching speed and ease, sturdiness, space, waterproofing and value. Every pick is a genuine inflatable (air) tent.
Our top picks
#1
#2 
Berghaus Cheviot 2 Tent
A practical camping shelter (tent, 2-person, 5000mm HH waterproof) for time spent outdoors.
#3 
Vango Kela AirBeam
A practical camping shelter (awning) for time spent outdoors.
#4 
Vango Family Shelter Tarp
A practical camping shelter (tarp) for time spent outdoors.
#5 
Trail Brazen Inflatable Air Tent
A practical camping shelter (tunnel tent, 4-person, 5000mm HH waterproof) for time spent outdoors.
#6 
Vango Family Shelter
A practical camping shelter (inflatable (air) tent) for time spent outdoors.
Frequently asked questions
Are inflatable tents any good?
Yes - inflatable (air) tents pitch far faster and more easily than large poled tents, often solo, and modern ones are sturdy and reliable in wind. The trade-offs are a higher price and the need to keep a pump handy and watch for punctures. For families wanting quick, stress-free pitching of a big tent, they're excellent.
Do inflatable tents pop or deflate?
Quality air tents are durable and the beams are protected within sleeves, so sudden pops are rare with normal use. Like an airbed, a puncture is possible, so carry a repair kit - but it's uncommon. The beams hold pressure well through a trip; you may top up occasionally in big temperature changes. Treat them with reasonable care and they're reliable.
Bottom line
Our top pick is the Berghaus Inflatable Air Shelter (our score 8.6/10) - A practical camping shelter (gazebo / event shelter) for time spent outdoors..