Outdoor Blog

How to Fix a Hole in an Air Mattress

Published

5 years ago

February 14, 2020

A sleeping bag in a tent with a mountain view.

Air Mattresses are one of the great luxuries you can have when camping. Sometimes a basic roll mat doesn’t quite cut it and you can feel the undergrowth pushing through, giving you a rough night’s sleep. Sometimes it can be so bad that you have to take down and re-pitch your tent in a different location for your second night so you can save your back for all the hiking and other activities you want to do on your camping trip. An air mattress gives you a wide enough berth between yourself and the ground to avoid any sticks poking you in the night.

Sometimes, however, disaster can strike and you notice your air mattress slowly deflating, taking away the great comfort it provides and leaving you at the perils of lying on the hard ground. Do not despair, your mattress isn’t ready for an early grave just yet. Whether you are out in the backcountry or checking it at home, your air mattress can be repaired to ensure that you rest well when sleeping under the night sky.

Before you set out on any camping adventure you should check over every piece of kit that you have. You should pitch your tent, and check you have all the required items. Likewise, your sleeping bag should be aired out and equipment such as your headlamp should be tested and spare batteries packed. If you’re taking an air mattress then blow it up and leave it for a couple of hours to check that it stays firm. If you find that it deflates then read on in this step by step guide, to fix the problem and make sure your camping trip goes ahead as planned.

Note: Looking for the best air mattress on the market? Browse the best air mattresses for camping here.

Some of us need some of the comforts of home when we’re out in nature.

Locating the leak

If you notice that you have a leaky air mattress then the first step to sorting this is to locate where the escaping air is. Before you start with this procedure you must bear in mind that air beds lose their air and become soft naturally over time. So if you have begun to notice the air bed softening over the space of a couple of days then do not worry. You only need to pump a little bit more air into it to keep it firm.

There are a couple of things that cause air mattresses to shrink a little bit faster. If you have purchased a new air mattress and it is shrinking quickly it is not necessarily to do with the quality of the bed. New air mattresses need to be expanded a few times before they begin to work as they should. So if this is a brand new air bed that is deflating sharply after putting it up for the first time then simply re-inflate it a few more times so that all of the seams have expanded properly.

The other possible cause of your air mattress shrinking quickly could be to do with the temperature. If you are camping in cooler weather then this will cause the air inside to thin and thus make it go down lightly. Warm air hold’s itself firm and will keep your mattress firm for a longer period of time. So before you begin to scour your bed for a hole, consider first whether it’s cold and whether or not the air bed is new or has only been put to use a couple of times. If you are sure that it is due to an air leak then its time to begin to find out where the air is leaking from.

Firstly you should make some tests to see if it is a genuine leak. Blow up your air bed fully and if it goes down after a few minutes then it is probably due to a leak. Sit upon the bed after you have inflated it and if it declines more than 2 inches then this is also an indicator of a leak. If you are yet to be fully convinced then leave some weight upon it overnight and if it has decreased significantly by the morning then there is a hole somewhere. When you are searching for the leak make sure that the mattress is fully inflated once again because when the air pressure is higher more air escapes which makes it easier to locate the hole.

The first place to check is the valve, which is normally placed next to the pump and is used to quickly deflate the bed. Place your hand over the valve to check to see if the air is flowing from it. If you discover that the air is escaping from here then this is a slightly bigger problem as this is the hardest part to repair. If it is coming from here then contact the supplier of the mattress to order a replacement valve.

If air is not coming from the valve then stand the mattress up against a wall. Most holes in an air bed shall be located on the underside of the bed due to sharp objects being laid underneath or rough ground when camping, causing it to be punctured. Pump it up fully and place it on the wall so that the underside is facing you. Put your ear close to the mattress to check for a hissing sound. Move your ear around the bed until you hear this sound. If it is not on the underside then check the topside and the sides to see if it is coming from there.

If this method does not work then pour some cold water over your hand and move it slowly around the bed, keeping it around two inches away. The leaking air will feel cold on your hand as it interacts with the water on it.

If you still cannot find the leak then it’s time to put a little bit more effort into discovering its location. The best method is to use soapy water to have a more detailed search for the hole. As a warning, we shall say that some producers claim that this can lead to mold appearing on your mattress. However, it is the best method and if you dry it out correctly afterward there will be no problem. This method will cause the soap to bubble up at the spot where the leak is, just like when you are blowing bubbles.

To do this get a bucket or basin and fill it with soapy water using dish soap. Then take a sponge or cloth and rub it across the surface area of the mattress. Take note that the seams of the air mattress are a place to pay particular attention to. Once you see air bubbles starting to form then you know where the leak is as the air causes the soap to expand. After you’ve located the leak wipe the soap away and mark where the hole is with a permanent marker pen as it will be very difficult to find the hole again once you have deflated the air bed.

Once you have located the hole and marked the spot it is time to deflate the air bed. If you used soapy water then first dry it with a towel, deflate it and then leave it out to dry completely. Let’s take a look at how to fix the puncture.

Fixing a hole with a patch kit

The best way to fix a puncture in an inflatable mattress is by using an air mattress repair kit. Every outdoor enthusiast should have a patch kit. These can be purchased at any shop specializing in outdoor activities and can be used for patching up tents and bike tires as well as air beds. These are inexpensive and the kit tends to contain sandpaper, superglue and patching tape that is suitable for fixing small holes in your equipment.

Check once again that your mattress is fully deflated because if air passes through then it can get under the patch that you have put on, undoing your work. Firstly take the sandpaper and gently remove the soft felt around the hole. This will allow the patch to stick as the soft layer on top of the mattress tends to not be suitable for holding onto sticky material. Once you’ve done this, take a cloth and clean the area with soapy water, drying it afterward. Any dust or specks of dirt can impede the effectiveness of the adhesive working.

The next step is to cut out a piece of patch roughly one and a half times bigger than the surface area of the hole. Around half of an inch wider than the puncture in all directions should suffice. The patch tape shall either have a sticky adhesive and if not a strong adhesive such as super glue should be applied gently to the back end of the patch. Put it once over the puncture gently and don’t remove or adjust it once it has been stuck down as this shall only take away from the stickiness.

Once you have stuck it down press down upon it firmly for around 30 seconds with the lower part of the palm of your hand. This is ample time for the adhesive to confirm its position upon the material of the air mattress. Now take a step back and allow the glue to set for two or three hours. Do not inflate during this period as the tape may come loose, reopening the air mattress leak. After this time has passed, inflate your mattress, listening closely for any further air escaping. There you have it, your air mattress is ready for its next trip!

A little bit of glue, sandpaper, and a patch will solve your sleeping problems in no time.

How to DIY

Maybe you don’t own a repair kit and need to fix your air mattress quickly before you set off on your next adventure. Keep in mind that a DIY repair may void your warranty so check this before you start. Many of them will instruct you to use a patch kit or to return the air mattress to them. Be sure that a DIY fix is something you want to undertake if it does void your air mattress’s warranty.

First of all, you must sand away at the area around the hole just like when you are repairing with the patch kit. The velvety like material will stop the adhesive from binding so it must be softened first before the seam is pulled back together. So scrub the felt away until it is just plastic surrounding the hole.

The next step is to cut out a thin and flexible piece of plastic. This can come from various types of items that you can find around the house. Items such as tarpaulin or a shower curtain are both appropriate for this kind of DIY job. Cut out a square from the sheet of plastic and make sure that it is around a centimeter wider than the gap of the hole on each side.

From this point place a strong super glue onto one side of the material. Don’t be frugal with the glue and place a large amount atop of it. Then like before place the bottom of the palm of your hand down upon it and maintain pressure on it for at least 30 seconds so that the glue sets. Then smooth it out and because you used large amounts of glue, clear away the excess that oozed its way out from the underside of your DIY patch.

After this place a heavy object that weighs at least five kilograms on top of the patch. Heavy books or a dumbbell will do. Leave it for at least six hours and then re-inflate your airbed and listen for air hissing out to make sure it worked. The DIY method can be used when you’re out in the backcountry as you can easily snip a piece of tarpaulin from the underlayer sheet for your tent.

You can also make a temporary fix if you do not have these items on hand at the time. Duct tape shall work for a while. However, the glue on duct tape is not built to last a long time on plastic surfaces so it shall eventually dry up and peel itself off your air mattress. Another tip is to never use hot glue when binding the hole in your air mattress. The heat from the glue will melt the thin plastic and increase the size of the gap in the air bed, meaning your mission to repair the hole gets a little bit harder.

It is also best to try and take good care of your air mattress to prevent having to carry out a repair. The material is fairly soft and can be pierced easily if it is inflated. When camping with it make sure that you choose an evenly grounded spot. Then clear any debris such as sticks and stones before you begin to pitch your tent. This shall minimize the risk of anything poking through and damaging the mattress.

Be sure not to store anything underneath the mattress. Make sure that the air mattress is the first thing you set up inside your tent once you have pitched it. If any small items get underneath it, it will cause the mattress strain during the night when your body weight is putting pressure down upon it. It’s always best to keep your tent in order to avoid unnecessary damage and to avoid losing things or mixing them with other people’s stuff.

Duct tape is the perfect material for quick fixes when camping.

Final Verdict:

Some of us crave some extra comfort when we’re out enjoying our camping trips. Maybe you turn your nose up at the thought of sleeping on a roll mat and you’ll instead opt to sleep on a camp bed, air mattress or another alternative. Although sturdily built, these objects are prone to damage, especially when they are being packed up and used outside. All of your camping equipment is more susceptible to damage than your household items. It gets packed in tightly into a car, hiked on your back for many miles, laid upon rough ground, and can be exposed to water damage, which can reduce its lifespan.

By properly maintaining your air mattress which is one piece of your kit that is particularly likely to be broken, you can avoid having to do these types of repairs. As you will have read, the repair is very straightforward and it does not take a jack of all trades to be able to repair one. The only items required are the sandpaper, glue, and patch contained in your repair kit. Add in a little bit of patience and you can fix your air bed without having to get onto the phone to the manufacturer.

Bonus tip: Here’s a video demonstration for you if you need some visual guidance on fixing your air mattress!

Outdoor Blog

Gear You Should Snag for the Great Outdoors This Season

Published

4 weeks ago

September 25, 2024

Caleb Cole

Outdoor enthusiasts know that having the right gear can make all the difference. Whether you’re hiking, camping, hunting, or engaging in any other outdoor activity, quality equipment ensures not only safety but also a better overall experience. As we head into a new season, it’s time to refresh your gear collection with essential items that will enhance your adventures. In this article, we’ll explore five pieces of must-have outdoor gear, focusing on both practicality and comfort.

Shooting Glasses Are Essential for Outdoor Adventures

If you’re heading out for a shooting range session or a hunting trip, investing in a quality pair of shooting glasses is non-negotiable. Eye protection is critical when engaging in any activity involving firearms, and shooting glasses are designed to keep your eyes safe from potential hazards like debris, shell casings, and even harmful UV rays.

Shooting glasses are a key safety measure that helps shield your eyes from impact and glare. The lenses are typically made from high-impact resistant materials that can endure tough conditions, making them a must-have for hunters, target shooters, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Beyond safety, these glasses often come with polarized lenses to improve visibility in various lighting conditions. By incorporating shooting glasses into your outdoor gear, you’re ensuring not only better safety but also improved performance during your time in the wilderness.

What Should You Look For During Black Friday Hunting Gear Deals?

One of the best times to stock up on essential outdoor gear is during Black Friday. Black Friday hunting gear deals provide an opportunity for hunters to snag high-quality items at significantly reduced prices. Whether you’re after apparel, backpacks, or specialized equipment, Black Friday sales often feature steep discounts on top brands that every outdoor enthusiast should take advantage of.

This sale season is ideal for upgrading your hunting wardrobe and stocking up on essential gear that may normally be out of your price range. From weather-resistant jackets to durable boots and base layers, hunting gear can be pricey, and Black Friday is the perfect time to invest in the best equipment. By keeping an eye out for deals during this shopping period, you can save money while ensuring you’re well-prepared for your next big adventure.

Multi-Tools Are a Must-Have

Want to know the most versatile pieces of gear you can carry? It is a multi-tool. Whether you’re camping, hiking, or hunting, having a tool that can serve multiple functions is a game-changer. Multi-tools come equipped with a variety of features such as knives, screwdrivers, pliers, and scissors, all compactly housed in a single device that easily fits in your pocket or pack.

The practicality of a multi-tool is hard to beat. It allows you to tackle unexpected tasks, from cutting rope to repairing gear, all without needing to carry a full toolbox. When you’re out in the wild, you want to be prepared for anything, and a multi-tool ensures you’re ready to handle small emergencies or make quick fixes with ease.

Insulated Water Bottles Can Improve Your Outdoor Experience

Staying hydrated is one of the most important aspects of any outdoor activity. Whether you’re embarking on a long hike or spending hours in a hunting blind, having an insulated water bottle can make a difference. Insulated bottles have features that help to keep your drinks at the desired temperature for a long time, which is especially useful during extreme weather conditions.

These bottles maintain the temperature of your beverage—whether cold or hot—so you can enjoy refreshing water in the summer or a warm drink during chilly morning hunts. Insulated water bottles are also typically made from durable materials, meaning they can withstand the rigors of outdoor use without breaking or leaking. Investing in a high-quality insulated bottle ensures that you stay hydrated and comfortable throughout your outdoor excursions.

Durable Backpacks Can Enhance Your Outdoor Experience

A good backpack is the cornerstone of any successful outdoor trip. When you’re out in nature, you need a reliable, durable pack to carry all of your gear comfortably. Look for backpacks that are built to withstand harsh conditions, provide ample storage, and have ergonomic designs that distribute weight evenly to prevent strain on your back and shoulders.

Modern outdoor backpacks come equipped with multiple compartments to help you stay organized, as well as specialized features like hydration bladder compatibility, rain covers, and reinforced straps. By investing in a durable, well-designed backpack, you’ll have the capacity to carry everything you need—whether it’s extra clothing, food, or hunting gear—while maintaining comfort during long treks.

Outdoor Blog

Are You Ready for Autumn Adventures? How to Prep for an Unforgettable Outdoor Fall Guys Trip

Published

2 months ago

August 26, 2024

Caleb Cole

As autumn rolls in, the great outdoors beckons with its crisp air and colorful foliage. For those gearing up for an adventurous Fall Guys trip—think hiking, camping, and maybe some deer hunting—the preparation is half the fun and all the necessity. With a myriad of activities to choose from, how do you ensure your fall excursion is not only exhilarating but also safe and comfortable? Here’s a step-by-step guide to making the most of your outdoor escapades this fall.

Choosing Your Adventure

First things first: deciding what type of fall outdoor activity tickles your fancy. Are you looking to conquer trails with breathtaking autumn views, or are you gearing up for a weekend of tranquil camping beside a glistening lake? Perhaps, the thrill of tracking and observing wildlife is what you’re after.

Each activity demands a different approach and preparation method. Start by defining what your fall guys trip looks like. Is it a quiet escape into the wilderness, a challenging hike, or a dedicated hunting expedition? Once you’ve nailed down the type of trip, you can start tailoring your prep list to match the demands of the activities you’ve chosen.

Plan a Camping Trip

If camping is on your agenda, meticulous planning is essential to enjoy both the spontaneity and serenity of nature without a hitch. When you plan a camping trip, think beyond just a tent and a sleeping bag. Consider the overall length of your trip, the climate of your chosen destination, and the size of your group. Are you venturing into bear country? If so, bear-proof containers for your food and trash are a must.

What’s the weather forecast? Ensure your gear is appropriate for colder nights and unpredictable weather patterns. A well-planned camping experience means securing the right campsite, bringing sufficient food and water supplies, and ensuring you have the necessary permits. Also, be aware of the leave-no-trace principles to keep your environmental impact to a minimum. Planning with precision ensures you’re free to relax and revel in the beauty of the season without unnecessary interruptions.

Gear Up for Deer Hunting

For many outdoor enthusiasts, fall is synonymous with deer hunting season. If this is the core of your guys trip, gearing up appropriately cannot be overstressed. Your deer hunting gear is your ticket to not only success but also safety. Start with the basics: a reliable hunting rifle or bow, suitable ammunition, and a quality scope or binoculars for spotting your target.

Clothing is next on the list; opt for layers that can easily adjust to changing temperatures and are also camouflaged to blend in with the fall environment. Don’t skimp on a good pair of boots—comfort, warmth, and durability are key when you’re on the move. Also, essential gear like a hunting license, deer tags, a first-aid kit, and even a GPS or compass should be non-negotiable items in your pack. Remember, the right gear not only enhances your chances of a fruitful hunt but ensures you can do so safely and responsibly within the ecological balance.

Map Your Route

Mapping your route is crucial whether you’re hiking, camping, or hunting. This involves more than just selecting a trail or a campsite; it means understanding the terrain, noting water sources, identifying potential shelter spots, and being aware of exit points in case of emergencies. Topographic maps, GPS devices, and even mobile apps can be incredibly useful tools for this.

Spend time familiarizing yourself with the area through these resources, and always carry a physical map and compass—you never know when technology might let you down. It’s also a good idea to inform someone about where you plan to go and expected return time is a safety must. Properly mapping your route not only helps in avoiding getting lost but also maximizes your interaction with nature, letting you find those hidden spots that make a trip memorable.

Prepare Physically and Mentally

The physical demands of outdoor activities, especially in the unpredictable weather of fall, should not be underestimated. Start conditioning your body weeks in advance, particularly if your trip involves strenuous activities like long hikes or hunting. Cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and hikes with a loaded backpack can prepare your body for the exertion to come.

Equally important is mental preparation. Familiarize yourself with survival skills, such as how to start a fire, basic first aid, and how to stay calm in unexpected situations. A physically and mentally prepared adventurer is more likely to enjoy the trip and handle potential challenges effectively.

Pack Smart

The final step in preparing for your outdoor trip this fall is packing. Since fall weather can be highly variable, layering is key. Include a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating middle layer, and a waterproof outer layer. Besides clothing, pack essential gear tailored to your activities—this could include a sleeping bag rated for colder temperatures, waterproof bags to keep gear dry, cooking equipment, food supplies, and safety items like a whistle, flashlight, and multi-tool. Be mindful of the weight and volume of your pack; every item should justify its place in your backpack by being essential or serving multiple purposes.

Outdoor Blog

BougeRV Showcases Sustainable Innovations at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024

Published

4 months ago

June 26, 2024

Jonas Muthoni

BougeRV is thrilled to participate in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024, scheduled from June 17-19 at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. As North America’s premier outdoor industry trade show, the event is a convergence of top brands, retailers, and industry professionals showcasing the latest in outdoor gear and innovations. BougeRV’s participation is a perfect example of their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly outdoor living solutions.

At the head of BougeRV’s exhibit is the Rocky Portable Fridge, a robust and versatile cooling solution designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts. This innovative fridge features dual-zone capability, allowing it to function simultaneously as a refrigerator and a freezer. Built with heavy-duty materials, the Rocky Portable Fridge is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including shockproof capabilities up to 40°. The fridge’s efficient energy consumption, coupled with a battery protection system, makes it perfect for off-grid adventures, aligning perfectly with the sustainable ethos of the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market.

The Rocky Portable Fridge also shows off an impressive temperature range from -4°F to 68°F, allowing for precise temperature control. Its smart storage solutions, including a removable divider and basket, ensure that items remain organized and easily accessible. The fridge can be powered by a 12V/24V DC car port, a 100-240V AC wall outlet, or an optional portable power station, providing unparalleled versatility. This adaptability is crucial for modern adventurers who require reliable and efficient cooling solutions on the go.

In addition to the Rocky Portable Fridge, BougeRV is showing several other cutting-edge products designed to enhance outdoor experiences. The CRPRO 30, a compact and high-performance fridge, is perfect for campers and RV enthusiasts. Its advanced cooling technology and robust build make it a reliable companion for any journey. Similarly, the 4000BTU Portable Air Conditioner is tailored for overlanding and camping, offering powerful cooling with user-friendly features such as dual adjustable air outlets and an IPX4 water-resistant design. These products are expected to attract overlanding enthusiasts eager to explore the latest innovations in outdoor living.

BougeRV’s participation in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market is really and truly about connecting with other industry leaders, exploring emerging trends, and demonstrating their commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices. By attending this prestigious and engaging event, BougeRV aims to highlight their dedication to providing high-quality products that cater to the needs of modern outdoor enthusiasts.

For more details about BougeRV and their innovative products, visit the BougeRV website. BougeRV’s involvement in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024 highlights their dedication to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction, positioning them as a leading brand in the outdoor industry ready to make a significant impact at this breakout event.