Best Inflatable Hot Tubs 2023

If you’re drawn to the perks of owning a hot tub but you can't get over the drawbacks (namely, the steep price tag and commitment), you don't have to abandon your dreams of kicking back in a hot whirlpool bath after a long day. Just get one of the best inflatable hot tubs, which carry nearly all the benefits of traditional hard-sided models without the high cost and permanence. Most aspiring jacuzzi owners will be more than satisfied with the top-notch Coleman SaluSpa Inflatable Hot Tub, a relatively affordable pick that fits up to six people, but we’ve rounded up a few other great options worth your consideration.

For its affordability, six-person capacity and attractive features, the Coleman SaluSpa Inflatable ... [+] Hot Tub is our top pick overall.

Now, if you’re considering an inflatable hot tub, you’re likely already aware that these soft models aren't designed to last as long as traditional options—but that's not necessarily a bad thing. "Inflatable hot tubs can be a good option for someone to consider if they are on a strict budget or for if they are first-time buyers who may be uncertain about buying a regular hardshell hot tub," says Manny Brambila, director of operations for the North Carolina-based Epic Hot Tubs. "The smaller size of an inflatable tub is especially nice for those with smaller spaces especially because they are able to pack it up and store it during the colder months and regain access to your space."

When weighing your options, make sure to consider each inflatable tub's capacity, durability and ease of use, while also keeping in mind your space and budget. With those factors in mind, enjoy scanning these five inflatable hot tubs, which we believe to be the best on the market right now.

Amazon

Dimensions: 77 x 77 x 28 inches | Hot tub capacity: Six people | Water capacity: 242 gallons | Number of jets: 140 | Maximum temperature: 104 degrees

For its six-person capacity, affordability and attractive features, Coleman's SaluSpa is an unbeatable option for most households in search of an inflatable tub. Crafted from puncture-resistant PVC, this durable whirlpool is one you can rely on. And with 140 powerful jets that release loads of bubbles from the tub's cushioned floor, the SaluSpa feels just as good as a hard-sided model—just with padded walls. Adding to the tub's overall appeal, it features a digital control panel that allows you to set your ideal water temperature (up to 104 degrees) and jet pressure; that panel also includes a power-saving timer that can slowly adjust the water temperature up to 72 hours in advance. Other attractive features include a rapid heating system, integrated water filtration and built-in cup holders.

The floor is also cushioned and contains a drain valve for when the fun is done. While some inflatable tubs require you to purchase a cover separately, this one comes with its own, along with double safety lock clips, a built-in air chamber to retain heat and a pump to inflate the spa. All that is to say, the SaluSpa's value is unmatched.

Amazon

Dimensions: 67 x 67 x 26 inches | Hot tub capacity: Two to three people | Water capacity: 160 gallons | Number of jets: 110 | Maximum temperature: 104 degrees

Looking for something on the smaller side? Consider the highly rated Bestway St. Lucia SaluSpa Inflatable Hot Tub, which is ideal for two people (though it can fit up to three). Made of puncture- and stretch-resistant DuraPlus material, this tub is similar to our top pick overall—just in a smaller package. For maximum relaxation, the water temperature can go up to 104 degrees while 110 jets inject the spa with tons of air. Meanwhile, the the tub's ChemConnect feature circulates the proper amount of chlorine to keep your water as clean as possible. Another cool feature: Alongside the filtration system, the tub is designed with winterizing technology that holds water between 42 and 50 degrees in the cooler months. Sweetening the deal, the tub comes with a pump that inflates and filters the spa, plus a reinforced cover, allowing you to retain heat and keep out debris when it's not in use.

Amazon

Dimensions: 77 x 77 x 28 inches | Hot tub capacity: Four people | Water capacity: 210 gallons | Number of jets: 140 | Maximum temperature: 104 degrees

This four-person tub from an Intex, a trusted name in inflatables, is built for maximum relaxation. Once you use the tilt-adjustable control panel to set activate the tub's 140 powerful bubble jets get to work, you can lean back into one of two contoured head rests and enjoy the color-changing LED lights. (That said, you don't have to run the lights.) Like many top inflatable tubs, the PureSpa Plus is crafted from puncture-resistant laminate PVC, so you don't have to worry about this spa popping. The tub also comes with a curved brush, a mesh skimmer and a scrubber pad to help you maintain the whirlpool, plus a

Amazon

Dimensions: 71 x 71 x 26 inches | Hot tub capacity: Seven people | Water capacity: 297 gallons | Number of jets: 180 | Maximum temperature: 104 degrees

In terms of functionality, the Bestway Helsinki SaluSpa resembles all the other premium models on this list: It's made of durable PVC and comes with an integrated water filtration system, a ChemConnect dispenser, an insulated cover, cup holders and a pump. What truly sets it apart is its size. With a water capacity of 297 gallons and 180 bubble jets, this seven-person spa is big. You can also control the action via your smartphone through the Bestway Smart Hub App, making this one exceptionally cool tub.

Amazon

Dimensions: 71 x 71 x 26 inches | Hot tub capacity: Four people | Water capacity: 177 gallons | Number of jets: 120 | Maximum temperature: 104 degrees

Technically, inflatable hot tubs aren't meant to be left out all winter. If you live in a particularly cold climate, though, it makes sense that you might "forget" to empty, store away and refill your tub between every use. Coleman keeps that behavior in mind with this four-person Ponderosa tub, which has an automatic heating function to prevent the inside of the tub from freezing when it's cold out, preserving the life of your whirlpool in the process. Meanwhile, the insulated cover also helps keep your tub at your desired temperature when it's not in use. And like most tubs on this list, it's made of strong DuraPlus materials that can stand up to whatever Mother Nature dishes out.

To compile this curated list, we first consulted two spa experts for their advice on the most important qualities to look for in inflatable hot tubs. From there, we looked at the most popular models on the market and narrowed down the field based on elements like capacity, durability, additional features and value. We also considered customer reviews to get an idea of what people view as the tubs’ strengths and weaknesses.

While inflatable hot tubs don't have as long of a lifespan as traditional hardshell whirlpools, they’re definitely not flimsy. "In general, you can expect to get at least one or two seasons out of an inflatable hot tub and most come with around a one-year warranty," says Brambila. That doesn't mean your inflatable hot tub won't last longer, though. "Well-maintained, high-quality inflatable hot tubs can last up to five years or more," Brambila continues. "Buyers should expect to perform regular water maintenance, filter replacements and equipment maintenance to ensure their inflatable hot tub lasts as long as possible."

While it varies case by case, inflatable hot tubs typically use just as much energy as traditional jacuzzis, if not a little more. "Because an inflatable hot tub is not as well insulated [as a hardshell model] and the equipment is not as efficient, the heater will need to work harder and more often in order to maintain the same temperature," says Roy Alberts, a certified hot tub and spa expert in California and founder of Splash for Health. "Because of this, the electricity cost of an inflatable hot tub will end up around the same if not more than a regular hot tub depending on the climate, desired hot tub temperature, and how it gets used."

Now, that depends on the winter. In many cases, inflatable hot tubs can operate just fine during the cooler months—they just have to work a little harder to reach and maintain your desired temperature. If it's frigid outside, though, the tub may be a no-go. "While some models may perform better than others, the general rule of thumb is that once the outdoor temperature drops below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, the inflatable model will begin to struggle to maintain its water temperature," says Brambila.