The 12 Best Inflatable Hot Tubs of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
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Relaxing has never been more accessible
People / Alli Waataja
Hot tubs are the ultimate way to relax and unwind after a long day — just ask Ree Drummond, who uses hers three or four nights a week! If you don’t have the budget for a hard-sided hot tub, you can still enjoy the warm, bubbly water in an inflatable hot tubs, which are much more affordable and easy to install.
“Inflatable hot tubs are a less expensive approach to trying out the hot tub lifestyle, as they cost between $300 and $1,200, compared to $3,000–$15,000 for a hard-sided version,” says Alicia Toedter, pool and hot tub care education expert for Leslie’s Pool Supplies. “Portable versions are now more durable than ever, and while inflatable hot tubs may not be as large as traditional hot tubs, their compact, cozy size makes them ideal for individuals or couples.”
To help you find the best option for your outdoor oasis, we tested six of today’s most popular inflatable hot tubs, using them for more than 75 hours to evaluate their performance, and we also did extensive research on the top models currently available on the market. In testing, we found that manufacturers often exaggerate the number of people a hot tub can hold by at least 1 or 2 people, so keep that in mind as you shop.
Below, the best inflatable hot tubs for portable (and more affordable) leisure.
Best Overall: Bestway SaluSpa Miami 4-Person Inflatable Hot Tub
Pros
Because of its smaller size, it only took around 12 hours for the hot tub to heat up, and it didn’t use a lot of electricity.
It’s easy to submerge yourself in the water more or less by adjusting your sitting position.
The hot tub doesn’t take long to set up, and no additional tools are required.
The Freeze Shield system allows you to use this hot tub during the winter, as it keeps the inner components from freezing.
Cons
Four people might be a bit cramped in the hot tub — only three adults can fit comfortably.
The Bestway SaluSpa Miami Inflatable Hot Tub is comfortable, easy to operate, and reasonably priced, making it our top choice for most people. This inflatable hot tub was the perfect size to set up on a small deck or patio — though we did have to look up the assembly instructions online, as they weren’t included in the box. We were able to set it up in around 30 minutes and filled it with cold water from the hose, and it was able to heat up to a toasty 100 degrees after around 12 hours.
It’s easy to step over the sides of this hot tub to get inside, and you have to sit on the floor to submerge yourself in the water. We liked that we could submerge ourselves more or less by adjusting our sitting position, but keep in mind that you do need to pull yourself out of the water to get out, which might be challenging for some people. The hot tub was the perfect size for two adults and one kid and we think you could comfortably fit three adults inside. (Four people might be too tight for comfort.)
This hot tub comes with a pump that inflates its walls and acts as a filter, as well as a dispenser that you can add chlorine to and a cover. (You will need to use chemicals to keep the pool clean — after about a week without any sort of treatment, the bottom of the hot tub started to get slimy, forcing us to empty and refill it.) It also has a Freeze Shield system that allows you to use it during the winter by keeping the pump from freezing.
Dimensions: 71 x 71 x 26 inches | Weight: 53.86 pounds | Water Capacity: 177 gallons | Max Temperature: 104°F | Max Occupancy: 4 people
Best for Winter: Bestway SaluSpa Milan 6-Person Inflatable Hot Tub
Pros
Freeze shield technology and an insulated cover allow this hot tub to be used at temperatures as low as 14°F.
The hot tub can be connected to your phone, allowing you to adjust its temperature, timer, filter, and air jets.
This inflatable spa is reasonably priced for its size and features.
Cons
Six people would likely be a tight squeeze in this hot tub — its realistic occupancy is probably closed to four adults.
The spa isn’t able to maintain its maximum temperature without the cover.
Not all inflatable hot tubs can be used when the outdoor temperature drops below freezing, but the Bestway Milan SaluSpa can. This model is equipped with freeze shield technology, which keeps its mechanical components between 42.8 and 50°F for proper operation, and it also comes with an insulated cover to maintain water temperature on cold days. In fact, the brand says this hot tub can be used at temperatures as low as 14°F!
The Milan SaluSpa comes with a filter cartridge, spa pump, chemical dispenser, and a repair patch, and it can also be connected to your smartphone. The Bestway app allows you to change the hot tub’s temperature, timer, and air jet settings without ever going outside — ideal for those cold winter days when you want to crank up the heat.
Dimensions: 77x 77 x 28 inches | Weight: 94.8 pounds | Water Capacity: 242 gallons | Max Temperature: 104°F | Max Occupancy: 6 people
Related: The 7 Best Ice Scrapers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
Best Energy-Efficient: Bestway SaluSpa Aruba Inflatable Hot Tub
Pros
This model comes with an insulated cover that makes it 40 percent more energy efficient.
The pump has integrated cup holders where you can place a drink.
The exterior of this inflatable hot tub has a decorative floral design that’s more attractive than other models.
Cons
Despite having the brand’s FreezeShield technology, this hot tub can’t be used in outdoor temperatures less than 39°F.
Several states recently passed new energy standards that apply to inflatable hot tubs, and if you live in one of these areas, you’ll only be able to purchase a more energy-efficient model, such as the Bestway SaluSpa Aruba. This compact, two-person hot tub comes with a special energy-saving cover that allows it to retain heat better, making it 40 percent more energy efficient than other models — good news for both you and your electric bill!
This spa is made from a three-layer fortified material that helps resist punctures and stretching, and it has 110 air jets that deliver a soothing massage as you relax. It is on the smaller side, so it’s really only suited for two people at a time, and it has a fun floral design on the exterior that will make your outdoor living space feel like a tropical oasis.
Dimensions: 67 x 67 x 28 inches | Weight: 67.8 pounds | Water Capacity: 160 gallons | Max Temperature: 104°F | Max Occupancy: 3 people
Best Investment: Intex PureSpa Plus 6-Person Portable Inflatable Hot Tub
Pros
The edge of the hot tub is sturdy enough to sit on, making it easy to cool off without completely getting out.
The hot tub has 170 jets around the bottom edges, and we were surprised at just how powerful they were.
Two adjustable seats and headrests are included with the hot tub, making it much more comfortable to sit in.
Cons
After being filled with a garden hose, the hot tub took 32 hours to reach a temperature over 100 degrees.
If you love hot tubs and know you’ll use it frequently, the Intex PureSpa Plus Inflatable Hot Tub is worth the investment. This hot tub is larger than many other inflatable models, and it comes with useful accessories such as two adjustable seats and inflatable headrests, which we found make it much more comfortable for long soak sessions.
It took us around an hour to set up this model (the directions weren’t the best), and after we filled it with water from the hose, the hot tub needed 32 hours to bring its temperature above 100 degrees. It was worth the wait, though — the hot tub was comfortable to sit in, and the jets were surprisingly powerful! The water comes up to your chest when sitting on one of the seats, and the outer rim is actually sturdy enough to sit on, which is handy if you want to cool off for a few minutes without getting all the way out.
While it’s marketed for six people, we think that around four adults would fit in this hot tub comfortably. It also comes with a variety of useful accessories, including a filter that treats hot water, a color-changing LED light, and a floating chlorine dispenser for maintenance.
Dimensions: 85 x 85 x 25 inches | Weight: 126 pounds | Water Capacity: 290 gallons | Max Temperature: 104°F | Max Occupancy: 6 people
Best 2-Person: Bestway SaluSpa St. Lucia Inflatable Hot Tub Spa
Pros
The size of this inflatable hot tub is perfect for small patios or decks.
Freeze Shield technology makes it possible to use this hot tub during the winter.
The hot tub has an automatic chlorine dispenser for easy maintenance.
Cons
The water may take 20+ hours to heat up, despite the small size of the hot tub.
If you’re planning to use your hot tub solo or with a partner, the Bestway St. Lucia is one of the smaller options out there, taking up minimal room on your patio or deck. This inflatable hot tub can fit up to three people, but it’s most comfortable for just two adults. It comes with a pump, insulated cover, and chlorine dispenser, which uses tablets to dispense the proper amount of chemicals to keep the water clean.
This hot tub has a basic design without any seats or headrests, but it’s still comfortable to sit in thanks to cushioned floors, and it's easy to climb into. It also has the brand’s Freeze Shield automatic heating function, which allows it to be used outdoors, even when the temperatures are below freezing.
Dimensions: 67 x 67 x 26 inches | Weight: 55.9 pounds | Water Capacity: 160 gallons | Max Temperature: 104°F | Max Occupancy: 3 people
Best 4-Person: Coleman SaluSpa Inflatable Hot Tub Spa
Pros
The walls of the hot tub feature internal beams that help it keep its shape.
You can use the hot tub during the winter thanks to its automatic heating function.
There are built-in cup holders behind the control panel, allowing you to keep a drink nearby.
Cons
The temperature of the water may drop a few degrees during operation, especially if the air jets are on.
The Coleman SaluSpa Inflatable Hot Tub is a great mid-size option that can seat up to four people. The design is over 6 feet in diameter, and it has 140 air jets around the bottom, creating a massage-like sensation as you kick back and relax. (Alternatively, you can use the control panel to shut the jets off.) The tub comes with a pump, insulated cover, and chlorine dispenser, and it has an automatic heating feature that will keep its inner workings from freezing during the winter, allowing for year-round operation.
This inflatable hot tub is particularly sturdy thanks to “beams” inside the walls, and they also help the product keep its shape in the long run. It has a power-saving timer that can be used to set the temperature of the spa up to 72 hours in advance, but it does sometimes struggle to maintain a steady temperature — it’s not uncommon for the hot tub to dip a few degrees during use, especially if you have the air jets on.
Price at time of publish: $410
Dimensions: 77 x 77 x 28 inches | Weight: 88.9 pounds | Water Capacity: 242 gallons | Max Temperature: 104°F | Max Occupancy: 4 people
Related: The 10 Best Outdoor Lights of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
Best 6-Person: Bestway SaluSpa Helsinki AirJet 7 Person Inflatable Hot Tub
Pros
The large circular design has thin walls, providing room for more people to fit inside.
The hot tub can be connected to your smartphone, allowing you to adjust the settings remotely.
The unit’s timer feature can be set up to 40 days in advance.
Cons
Because this hot tub is on the larger side, it takes more chemicals and overall maintenance to keep clean.
The hot tub may take a few days to heat up on first use.
For those who regularly host guests, the Bestway Helsinki SaluSpa is a spacious inflatable hot tub that the manufacturer claims can hold up to seven people. The large circular spa has more inner space thanks to its thin walls, and it comes with a variety of accessories, including a pump, insulated cover, cup holders, chemical dispenser, filter cartridge, and repair patch — just in case the walls ever get punctured.
This large hot tub offers several features for more convenient operation. For instance, it can be connected to your phone via the Bestway Smart Hub app, allowing you to adjust its settings remotely, and its timer feature can be set up to 40 days in advance — useful if you want it warmed up and ready for a big backyard bash. Just keep in mind that its larger size means more maintenance is needed, and it may require a little extra finesse to keep the chemical levels balanced.
Dimensions: 71 x 71 x 26 inches | Weight: 68 pounds | Water Capacity: 297 gallons | Max Temperature: 104°F | Max Occupancy: 7 people
Easiest Setup: Intex SimpleSpa 4-Person Inflatable Hot Tub
Pros
This hot tub is easy to set up and includes helpful videos to guide you.
It comes with a comprehensive maintenance kit that includes a chlorine dispenser, test strips, and replacement filters.
Cons
It has fewer air jets than other similarly sized models.
Complicated setup was one of the most common issues we ran into when testing inflatable hot tubs, and if you don’t want to spend hours trying to decipher a poorly written manual, the Intex Simple Spa is a top choice. The brand claims this hot tub can be set up and ready to fill with water in as little as 20 minutes, and it offers handy video instructions to help you streamline the assembly process, allowing you to have your new spa up and running ASAP.
In addition to its easy assembly, this four-person hot tub, which has 100 air jets, comes with a variety of handy accessories. It includes an insulated cover and thermal ground cloth for better heat retention, as well as a carry bag for storage. This model even includes (almost) everything you need for maintenance, including a floating chlorine dispenser, water test strips, and two replacement filters for the pump. All you have to do is buy the chemicals!
Dimensions: 77 x 77 x 26 inches | Weight: 89.8 pounds | Water Capacity: 210 gallons | Max Temperature: 104°F | Max Occupancy: 4 people
Best Square: Coleman SaluSpa Atlantis AirJet 4-6 Person Inflatable Hot Tub
Pros
The square shape allows people to rest in the inner corners, providing more support than round spas.
The hot tub heats up quicker than most, especially if you leave the cover on.
The inflatable cover is lightweight and easy to manage.
Cons
It lacks any type of anti-freeze technology and shouldn’t be used at temperatures below 39°F.
The air jets are surprisingly loud and can hinder your ability to hold a conversation.
Most inflatable hot tubs are round, but some people may prefer a square model, such as the Coleman Atlantis. The brand says this hot tub can accommodate up to six people at a time, but it’s most comfortable for four occupants, as each person can rest in one of the corners and stretch out more.
This mid-sized hot tub has a cushioned floor for comfort when you’re sitting, and there are 140 air jets around the bottom for a little massage action. However, the jets do cause the motor to operate quite loudly, which isn’t ideal when you’re trying to socialize. The good news is that it heats up more quickly than other models, allowing you to start using it sooner, and the inflatable cover is extremely easy to take off and put onto the spa.
Just keep in mind that this hot tub isn’t designed for wintertime use — the brand says the ambient temperature needs to be over 39°F for proper operation.
Dimensions: 71 x 71 x 28 inches | Weight: 84 pounds | Water Capacity: 222 gallons | Max Temperature: 104°F | Max Occupancy: 6 people
Best with Lights: Intex PureSpa Plus 6-Person Inflatable Square Hot Tub
Pros
The hot tub syncs up to your phone, allowing you to adjust the temperature from anywhere.
The saltwater system sanitizes the water without need for chlorine.
The hot tub comes with a decorative LED light, as well as head rests for added comfort.
Cons
The brand’s customer service isn’t the best, which can be frustrating if you run into problems with the product.
If you want to turn your backyard into a relaxing oasis where you can hang out with friends, the Intex PureSpa Greystone Deluxe is a worthwhile splurge. This large, square inflatable hot tub gives you plenty of room to stretch out, and it comes with extra accessories, including a color-changing LED light for a fun ambiance at night.
In addition to a heat-saving cover and pump, this hot tub comes with a thermal ground cloth, storage bag, four filter cartridges, and two headrests. The motor also includes a saltwater filtration system, which eliminates the need for chlorine to keep the water fresh. Plus, the hot tub can be connected to your smartphone, allowing you to adjust the temperature and settings from the Intex app.
Dimensions: 76 x 76 x 28 inches | Weight: 119 pounds | Water Capacity: 290 gallons | Max Temperature: 104°F | Max Occupancy: 6 people
Related: The 7 Best Heated Jackets of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
Best with Seat: Bestway SaluSpa AirJet Inflatable Hot Tub and PureSpa Removable Spa Seat
Pros
The hot tub has a basic design that’s easy to set up and operate.
An adjustable spa seat is included with this hot tub.
Cons
While listed as a six-person hot tub, its max occupancy is probably closer to four adults.
One common complaint about inflatable hot tubs is that they don’t actually have seats — instead, you generally have to sit directly on the floor of the spa. If you prefer to have an elevated seat inside the hot tub, this model from Bestway comes with a removable spa chair that can be adjusted to suit your needs. The hot tub itself is comfortable for up to six people (though it would be a tight squeeze with six adults), and it comes with standard accessories like a cover, filter, and air blower.
As for the seat, it’s made from a durable laminate and has a contoured shape that’s comfortable to sit on. It offers 3- and 5.8-inch height options, depending on how much you want to be submerged, and it can be easily removed from the water as needed.
Dimensions: 77 x 77 x 28 inches | Weight: 73.6 pounds | Water Capacity: 242 gallons | Max Temperature: 104°F | Max Occupancy: 6 people
Best with Jets: Intex PureSpa Bubble Massage 4-Person Inflatable Hot Tub
Pros
The heated air jets offer a relaxing massage, similar to traditional hot tub jets.
The spa has a built-in inflation system for quick setup.
The filter treats hard water, making the spa gentler on skin and increasing its lifespan.
Cons
The brand says it must be a minimum of 50°F outside for the spa to reach its max water temperature.
Inflatable hot tubs don’t have traditional water jets like classic hard-sided hot tubs, but they do often have air jets, which push air bubbles through a tube around the bottom of the spa to create a similar effect. The Intex PureSpa Bubble Massage Inflatable Hot Tub is a particularly good choice if you want a relaxing massage sensation — it has 120 high-powered bubble jets that will elevate your soaking experience.
This circular hot tub is best for a maximum of four people, and its built-in filter automatically treats hard water, making it gentler on your skin while also preventing mineral buildup inside the pipes. The spa comes with two filter cartridges, a floating chlorine dispenser, thermal ground cloth, inflation hose, and carry bag, but keep in mind that it’s designed for use when the outdoor temperature is above 50°F.
Dimensions: 77 x 77 x 28 inches | Weight: 100.1 pounds | Water Capacity: 210 gallons | Max Temperature: 104°F | Max Occupancy: 4 people
Other Inflatable Hot Tubs We Tried
Bestway SaluSpa Budapest Inflatable Hot Tub: Setting up this inflatable hot tub was an exercise in patience. The assembly instructions were confusing and jumbled, and while the product is technically able to connect to your smartphone, doing so is easier said than done. Once we finally got everything up and running, we loved that its 140 air jets provide a powerful bubbling sensation, and there was enough room for two to four people to sit comfortably. This model also comes with an energy-saving cover that helps maintain its warmth, even when used in the winter.
People / Daniela Galvez
Things to Consider When Buying an Inflatable Hot Tub
Capacity
Just like classic hot tubs, inflatable hot tubs come in a variety of sizes (and shapes), so you’ll want to think about how many people will be using it. Small one- or two-person models have several benefits — they use less water and electricity, heat up faster, and take up less space. However, if you plan to host parties in your hot tub, you can find inflatable models that can fit up to seven people at a time. Just keep in mind that they’re generally more challenging (and expensive) to maintain.
In our testing, we did find that manufacturers do tend to inflate the capacity of their spas. The four-person Bestway SaluSpa Miami was realistically comfortable for two or three people, and the six-person Intex PureSpa Plus was best-suited for four adults.
Our expert confirmed that this is often an issue: “Even though most inflatable hot tubs have a four-person capacity, they can feel quite crowded with more than two or three people,” says Toedter. “If you plan on hosting multiple people at a time, consider alternating users to ensure everyone gets a chance to use the hot tub.”
Ambient Temperature
Not all hot tubs are designed to be used in the winter, so if you live in a cold climate or want to use your spa year-round, it’s important to find one that can be used when the ambient temperature is below freezing — such as the Bestway Milan SaluSpa. These models typically have something called “freeze shield” technology, which uses its own power to keep the motor and inner workings warm enough for operation. However, even these winter-friendly models can’t be used at extremely cold temperatures, so take this into account as you shop.
Included Accessories
Most inflatable hot tubs come with a cover, air pump, and some type of chemical distribution system, but certain models, like the Intex Simple Spa, include additional accessories, as well. You may want to look for a spa that includes a ground cover, saltwater filtration, or hard water treatment, all of which can make upkeep easier.
To improve the comfort of your hot tub, some models come with adjustable seats, headrests, or even color-changing LED lights for nighttime use.
Maintenance
Unless you want to be emptying and refilling your hot tub every week, you’ll need to invest in the right chemicals and water testing supplies to keep it clean. “Inflatable hot tubs require the same maintenance as hard-walled or inground hot tubs, including regular water testing, balancing water chemistry, and routine skimming and vacuuming,” explained Toedter. “Additionally, it’s important to run the self-contained pump and filter often to ensure proper water circulation and filtration.”
Most hot tubs come with some type of chemical distribution system, so you’ll want to check what type of supplies it uses and purchase those along with the hot tub.
Energy Efficiency
In the past two years, several states passed new energy and water consumption regulations — referred to as APSP-14 regulations — that apply to inflatable hot tubs. If you live in California, Oregon, Rhode Island, Maine, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, or Nevada, you’re now unable to purchase spa models that don’t meet these energy efficiency standards. (Washington and Maryland may soon be on that list, too.)
People/Daniela Galvez
How We Tested
We were able to test a total of six inflatable hot tubs in person, and the remaining models featured on this list were selected based on expert recommendations and customer reviews. For the products we did test firsthand, we evaluated them on the following criteria:
Delivery and Setup: We noted how the product was delivered (on a pallet, in a box, etc.) and assessed the overall quality and clarity of the assembly instructions. We also timed how long it took to set up each model, fill it with water, and get the water up to temperature.
Design: We used each hot tub for several hours, noting how many people could fit inside it, if it was comfortable to sit in, if it was easy to get in and out, and how well the spa maintained the water temperature.
Maintenance: We noted how much everyday maintenance was required for each product. This included things like adding chemicals, cleaning out debris, and adjusting the water temperature.
Features: We tested any special features, including air jets, LED lights, and smartphone connectivity, noting if they were easy to use and effective.
Value: We weighed the overall performance of each product against its price to determine whether it’s worth buying.
At the end of testing, we scored the hot tubs on the following attributes: setup, design, maintenance, features, and value. They ended up scoring quite similarly — the Bestway SaluSpa Miami earned an overall score of 4.46 and the Intex 28431E PureSpa Plus was right behind it at 4.45. We ultimately awarded the Bestway SaluSpa Miami our top spot due to its superior value, but we don’t think you can go wrong with either model.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use inflatable hot tubs in the winter?
Certain inflatable hot tubs can be operated during the winter, but it’s important to make sure the model you choose is designed for use at low temperatures. In general, you’ll want to look for a hot tub with “freeze shield” technology, which will stop the motor and electrical components from freezing.
“Due to their lack of insulation, inflatable hot tubs struggle to maintain warm water in temperatures below 40°F,” explains Toedter. “You can use a solar blanket when the hot tub is not in use to help retain some of the heat. Keeping the inflatable hot tub clear of direct contact with snow and ice is also important, as well as insulating the ground on which it sits with a thermal ground mat.”
Even if your hot tub can be used at temperatures below freezing, be sure to consult your user’s manual to see if it has a minimum temperature, which is often around 10-15°F.
Is a round or square inflatable hot tub better?
Inflatable hot tubs come in both round and square shapes, and while circular options are more popular, there are benefits to both styles. Circular hot tubs generally require less water to fill and offer a more intimate experience, but they offer less leg room to stretch out. Square hot tubs, on the other hand, allow occupants to sit back in the corners and generally provide a bit more space for everyone. At the end of the day, the decision between round and square hot tubs really comes down to personal preference.
“When shopping, consider the space requirements in your yard, and how you plan to use your inflatable hot tub,” recommends Toedter. “For example, if you plan to place the tub in a tight corner, a square version may work best.”
What’s the lifespan of an inflatable hot tub?
As you might expect, inflatable hot tubs don’t last as long as classic hard-sided hot tubs. However, you can still expect to get five or more years of use out of these spas. To ensure your hot tub lasts for as long as possible, you’ll want to follow the manufacturer’s operation and maintenance guidelines and be sure to winterize it properly. This will help prevent the materials from deteriorating prematurely so you can enjoy your hot tub for many seasons to come.
Why Trust PEOPLE?
Camryn Rabideau is a freelance writer and product tester who specializes in home products. While writing this article, she pulled insights from firsthand testing notes from the People Tested team, and she also spent several hours researching top-rated inflatable hot tubs to provide additional product recommendations.
For further insights on what to look for in an inflatable spa, she spoke with Alicia Toedter, pool and hot tub care education and content for Leslie’s.
What Is People Tested?
We created the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval to help you find the very best products for your life. We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs.
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