In the past, it was a lot harder for the average joe to afford a hot tub. Well, that’s all about to change. Not only are inflatable hot tubs incredibly affordable, but they have the advantage of not being permanent installations and are easy to set up.
There is no need to worry about them taking up too much valuable space on your property, that you might want to use in different ways when you are not taking an outdoor massage experience under the stars to ease away the pain. Do your research and you will find the best inflatable hot tub for you and the space you have.
The Most Popular Best Inflatable Hot Tubs
If you run a search for inflatable hot tubs online, you will find that there’s quite a wide selection to choose from. So if you are completely new to the world of inflatable spas, here are the most popular and best inflatable hot tubs along with our portable tub reviews.
1. Coleman SaluSpa 4 Person Portable Hot Tub
The Coleman SaluSpa four people unit is the first hot tub inflatable we are going to look at. It’s very portable and has a diameter of 71-inches so it will fit in any backyard. A luxury and relaxation experience to ease away aching muscles and joint pain that you can get after a long day (it’s also very affordable as a 2 person hot tub).
The design is made from durable PVC material for long durability and it can be inflated in just a few minutes. Also benefiting from a water heater system that can heat the water temperature to a temperature that suits you fast, up to approximately 104- degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature can be adjusted easily via the digital control panel, which can be accessed from inside the tub.
The walls of this jacuzzi inflatable are made from a robust 3-ply PVC that utilizes an I-beam design to ensure the sides are rigid and won’t bend when you sit against them. The cushioned floor ensures a soft place to rest after a hard day. The 120 massage jets provide the perfect amount of air bubbles for the relaxation and body massage you want from your inflatable hot tub.
Safety and hygiene are kept firmly in mind with this Coleman Saluspa with the inclusion of the chemical floater that can be used to keep the hot tub free from bacteria, along with a double pack of cartridges, be sure to check the instructions for what chemicals you may need to use.
This hot tub also has a blow-up tub cover to keep the water clean from debris and help prevent heat loss when not in use, along with a repair kit just in case the unthinkable does happen, but with the durable 3 ply PVC this should not really ever be the case.
2. Intex 85-inches PureSpa Portable Bubble Massage Spa Set
The second on our list of inflatable hot tubs, the Intex PureSpa Portable six people bubble spa. This inflatable spa can be up and ready to provide comforting warm bubbly water for 4-6 people in a matter of minutes with the simple press of a button for the inflation hose and that has to be the easiest assembly instructions that you can get.
Structurally it benefits from the Fiber-Tech construction (a patented Intex hot tub technology) that ensures it is sturdy with durability that will last for a very long time. This consists of hundreds of incredibly strong polyester fibers, which sets it apart from the inner-beam vinyl inflatable hot tubs out there as the fibers won’t stretch over time.
The bubbles are produced by 140 powerful massage jets and the heating system can be adjusted easily between 68 and 104- degrees Fahrenheit via the water heater. The thermal ground cloth is insulated to help heat retention and an insulated cover that protects the water from debris and dirt and ensures that the water stays reasonably warm for short periods of time when you are not using it. Also, this model has a built-in hard water filter for hard water treatment to soften the water.
Obviously, safety and hygiene are important and this comes with two filter cartridges that are easily replaced and also benefits from a system that treats the water if you live an area with harder water. This means that when you use it the water is kinder on your skin.
3. Bestway SaluSpa Miami AirJet Inflatable Hot Tub
An affordable option, the third on our list is the SaluSpa Miami AirJet model from Bestway. It has a seating capacity for 2 to 4 people and is considered to be one of the first premium inflatable hot tubs so cozy enough for you and your loved one or the family.
Bestway has given it a rapid heating system to make sure the tub warms up safely and quickly and can be set to a maximum of 104-degrees Fahrenheit. There is an easy to use digital control panel and the relaxing bubbles are produced by 120 jets and all this is why it is on our list as a best portable hot tub.
The tri-tech fabric has been used, which is formed from a polyester mesh core held between laminated PVC. Not only is it exceptionally strong, but it is also incredibly durable and is stronger than many others on the market.
Thanks to the commonly used I-beam construction, which will not puncture easily and means you can sit in the tub and lean against the sides or sit on the side of them and they don’t buckle or bend.
As is standard with many of these products, it comes with the relevant accessories to keep it clean and the blow-up cover. Simply inflate with its own air pump and no other accessories are required.
4. Intex 77-inches PureSpa Portable Bubble Massage Spa
Another great product from Intex PureSpa, measuring 77-inches in diameter. Suitable for four people or better used as a 2 person hot tub, it benefits from a hard water treatment system to make the water softer and much better for your skin. The main difference between this inflatable spa and others on our list is the size.
It’s a little smaller in diameter than the other Intex model and therefore not quite as roomy, though it can still fit between two and four people.
This uses the same Fiber-Tech and laminated three-ply material so it is puncture-resistant. These components make it durable, supportive and comfortable to use.
It comes with filter cartridges that are easy to replace and an insulated cover that temporarily helps keep the water hot when you cover it and also stops debris and other contaminants from getting in.
5. Comfort Line Products Spa-N-A-Box Portable Spa
As the name suggests, the next on our list is a spa tub that can be installed basically from a box. Installation takes around 20 minutes and doesn’t require any special tools or any complicated techniques, much like others on the list. With a built-in 24-hour filtration system.
What we particularly like about this design is the fact that from the outside it looks like a more permanent model rather than your typical blow up jacuzzi.
Much like others, the maximum temperature that the heating system is capable of warming the water to is 104-degrees Fahrenheit. Your bones, muscles, and skin will appreciate the more than 100 micro-jets and the 1.3-horsepower TurboWave massage system.
The actual material is 3-ply marine-grade tough PVC vinyl. This is exactly the same material used in many white-water rafts. There is also a very relaxing padded floor.
Along with making this hot tub relaxing, it also makes it easier and even safer to get in and out of the spa compared to if it was made from fiberglass or acrylic. Make sure you check out these awesome hot tub accessories to go with it too.
6. Bestway SaluSpa Paris AirJet Hot Tub with Built In LED Lights
The Bestway Paris model is much like many of the other options on our list. The thing that makes this hot tub stand out is the fact that it is big enough to fit up to six people. While there are only around 87 bubble jets, it still provides a plentiful and soothing array of bubbles for four to six people so you and your friends, relatives or special someone can enjoy.
This is possible thanks to the patented-Lazy-Z massage feature that will truly have more than enough bubbles to relax not only you but your tired muscles as well.
The other huge selling points for this blow up hot tubs design is aside from the size, how easy it is to set up and the massage system, is the fun and exciting LED lighting show that is built into it. This takes the experience in the tub at night and under the stars to a whole new level and can really get those outdoor parties off to a swing.
There seven different lights that the show cycles through with a remote to control everything that is completely waterproof, meaning it can be used from inside the tub itself. This also comes with a pump to inflate it, and get it up to temperature, this also runs the filtration system and controls the massage system.
7. GoPlus 4-Person Hot Tub
Although this is made by a manufacturer that is not as well known as Intex or Bestway, the GoPlus, we feel it still deserves a mention here just for the fact it has a very affordable price tag.
The one thing you need to be aware of, like with many others on our inflatable review list, is the capacity. While it is reported that four people can use this, this may be pushing things to the limit and may only be an option if you are not put off by leg touching but ideal for the younger ones.
By far the best and most unique feature, along with the more standard handles for carrying and transporting it, is the integrated blower and heater that is incorporated into the spa wall.
This helps to save some space, that others take up, and the fact that the digital control unit on the interior wall makes it easy to alter the settings from inside the hot tub, as you don’t have to reach over the side. With a good price tag and these features, you can have the experience of relaxing and soothing those aching muscles without putting a strain on the purse.
8. Bestway SaluSpa Hawaii HydroJet Pro Hot Tub
Yet another great inflatable hot tub from Bestway a bit more expensive than some of the others but, that is with very good reason though, this rectangular-shaped model has hydro, or water jets, making it a bit different from the rest.
The reason this is notable is the fact that water jets are the most common form of jets used in permanent and traditional designs. This results in the ultimate massaging spa experience due to the water being thrust through its adjustable nozzles at reasonably high speeds. The advantage is that a running water pump is much quieter than air jets producing bubbles.
So, there are a total of eight water jets and additional bubble jets that can all be adjusted and as an extra, there’s hard water and saltwater treatment system. Hence this starring, amongst others, on the best of hot tubs inflatable models list.
9. MSPA Lite Silver Cloud Relaxation & Hydrotherapy Spa
The penultimate on our list is the MSpa Alpine Spa has 108 air jets and benefits from an extremely quiet operation. It has a very classy and sophisticated design with its charcoal-grey 6-layer rhino-tech reinforced PVC.
Similarly, like others on this list, the tub comes with a heater built-in. Although at the top end in price, it really is still a great purchase.
If you have been left wondering if there a difference between a Hot Tub and a Spa the answer is no when talking portable units, a spa used to be a permanent fixture only, but with the modern technology, they can now fall into the category of being portable units.
While the inflatable jacuzzi, as some might refer to them as, is a brand name only and is such due to the name of the Jacuzzi brothers who invented the first underwater jet. We hope this little tidbit helps clear up any confusion you might have had.
Things to Consider When Looking for a Hot Tub
So now you’ve seen our shortlist of the top 10 best portable hot tubs, you probably have a better idea of the one you want to buy. Before you start clicking buy now, there are some important things you need to consider, especially if you have dreams of throwing an epic hot tub party.
What Size Unit Do You Need?
It’s common sense really, but you should take care to buy a hot tub that is big enough. Now when we say size, we don’t just mean the diameter and size overall, but its capacity. Depending on the model, price range and type, most portable models have a capacity from two to eight people.
Required Floor Space
The next aspect of inflatable hot tubs you should take into consideration is the space required by models you are interested in. You need to have the right size of space for where you want to place it.
Air Jets or Hydro Jets?
There are two different types of massage jets used in hot tubs, air jets, and hydro jets.
While air jets provide a constant supply of bubbles that will give your body a nice massage and make it feel like a proper spa jacuzzi, the problem with them though is that they often only just one setting – so they can be switched on and off.
The major and best advantage they have over hydro jets is that hot tubs with air jets tend to be less expensive than those with hydro jets. So consider the amount of energy that they will be using before purchasing.
Although hydro jets are more expensive, they offer a much smoother massaging experience with the jets of water being forced out. A further advantage is, the fact that the flow of water and the direction of the jets can be adjusted to fit your needs and personal preferences.
Hot Tub Maintenance
Generally speaking, they don’t require much in the way of maintenance. That being said, there are a number of things you could do to make it even easier to look after yours.
First things first, it is a good idea to find out which hot tub chemicals the manufacturer of your tub suggests should be used. You should be interested in whether or not these are included in the price tag or you will need to buy them separately. If they aren’t, it’s a good idea to buy them at the same time as buying your tub.
It also makes sense to ensure you understand the good working practice regarding the cleaning of the filters and the running costs. Depending on the tub model, this can be one to two days of what consists of heavy use.
The Tub will come with a drain valve to enable you to empty for storage during the winter months if required and with a filtration system to aid with the cleanliness and general hygiene of the water.
Weight and Weight When Full
If you’re just placing it on flat, level ground, the weight of the hot tub will only matter if you are looking to move it while it has water (if that is possible).
However, if you are going to set it up inside your summer house or on a raised area of decking, you need to make sure that the weight of the hot tub when it is full is suitable for that area. So you not only need to check the people capacity but the water capacity and how many gallons of water it holds.
As many hot tubs weigh around 1000kg when they are full, some surfaces are not designed to handle that weight.
Setting up
Installation is generally an incredibly easy thing when it comes to the hot tubs we’ve looked at in this post. Most models come with helpful instruction manuals and you won’t, in most cases, need any tools.
How To Inflate
When inflating, with the air pump provided, you obviously need to avoid over-inflating, as factors such as sunlight, heat, and water can inflate a tub more. Remember that you can always remove or add some more air while getting it right and always refer to the instruction booklet.
Heating Time
You need to keep in mind that for some of these models, it can take many hours for them to get up to temperature, depending on the technology used and their design. Obviously, the bigger the tub, the longer it will take to warm it up and the more energy it will use.
Choose the Right Place to Install it
The place you are going to install your tub is important. When installing it, there are some questions you can ask yourself to make sure you are making the right choice. Try to avoid placing your inflatable hot tub under a tree as this will incur more debris. Do you want it in a sunny corner as sunlight can have an effect on the tubs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most people have a few questions when buying a hot tub for the first time, so here’s a quick run through of the ones we get asked most often.
How often can I use a hot tub?
You can use a hot tub every day for periods of approximately 15 minutes, doing this every day will increase the health benefits that you get from it.
Are inflatable hot tubs worth it?
The answer to are portable hot tubs worth it is Yes. The health benefits you gain from them are numerous, they help relieve stress and tension, along with helping mobility and even aiding sleep. They are durable and with modern PVC have the longevity required.
Are inflatable hot tubs durable?
Yes, with modern technology inflatable hot tubs are very durable. The 3-ply material that portable hot tub manufacturers use is of high quality and incredibly strong, and therefore should last a very long time through use and abuse.
What is the best inflatable hot tub to buy?
What the best inflatable hot tub to buy is, depends on your requirements. What people capacity and what space you have available are two examples of things you need to consider. Above are our top ten picks of the best.
What can I put under my inflatable hot tub?
A ground cloth or air mat is the best thing to put under your portable hot tub to help prevent puncturing. Also, ensure that the surface it is to be placed on is flat and smooth.
Avoid Leaving it Outside During Winter
Like most items and accessories constructed from plastic and rubber, the units do not hold up well in cold temperatures and wintery weather conditions. The chilly air and frost can make the material brittle and the tub is more likely to puncture or split.
Conclusion
So, even if you have the space to keep your tub up, it is best to pack it away safely and securely if you are not going to use it during winter. This also prevents leaves, dirt and other debris getting in it whilst not in use. To clear this out can require a bit of elbow grease with a specialized hot tub vacuum, we’ve reviewed some of the best hot tub vacuums here.
So, there you have it, you now know some of the main things to consider when buying the best portable hot tub for you, as well as some tips for placing it in the right location and maintaining it to get the most out of it.
We are sure our list of the top 9 inflatable hot tubs will help you find the best one. Have fun!