Creating a relaxing oasis in your own backyard has never been easier, thanks to the convenience and affordability of inflatable hot tubs. These portable spas offer a perfect way to unwind after a long day or to enjoy a soothing soak with family and friends without the commitment of a permanent installation. With a variety of sizes, styles, and features available, there is an ideal model to fit any patio space and personal preference.
From energy-efficient designs to smart app controls and powerful bubble jet systems, modern inflatable hot tubs are packed with amenities that rival their hard-sided counterparts. This roundup highlights ten of the best options on the market, helping you find the perfect blend of comfort, durability, and performance to enhance your outdoor living experience.
Our Top Picks for Inflatable Hot Tubs
- BTMWAY 73″ Inflatable Hot Tub, 4-6 Person
- Bestway SaluSpa Hawaii Smart AirJet Inflatable Hot Tub
- Bestway SaluSpa Honolulu AirJet Large Round Hot Tub
- Coleman Palm Springs EnergySense AirJet Inflatable Hot Tub
- INTEX 28431EP PureSpa Plus Bubble Massage Spa Set
- DRELD P6931 Lay Z Spa Hot Tub Air Inflation Hose
- Bestway SaluSpa St Moritz AirJet 6 Person Hot Tub
- Bestway SaluSpa Bali Smart AirJet Inflatable Hot Tub
- MSpa 6-Person Inflatable Hot Tub, Round Bubble Massage Spa
- Bestway SaluSpa Miami AirJet Inflatable Hot Tub
BTMWAY 73″ Inflatable Hot Tub, 4-6 Person
Experience a high level of relaxation with the BTMWAY inflatable hot tub, which features 130 soothing bubble jets. The warm, bubbling water surrounds you for a luxurious spa experience right in your backyard. Its wood-grain textured exterior adds a touch of elegance, making it a stylish addition to your patio decor.
Operation is straightforward with the convenient, integrated digital control panel. This panel allows you to adjust the temperature, activate the filter, inflate the tub, and start the bubble massage with ease. The embedded design of the pump and controls helps it withstand various weather conditions and offers a more durable, long-lasting solution compared to models with external machines.
Bestway SaluSpa Hawaii Smart AirJet Inflatable Hot Tub
The Bestway SaluSpa Hawaii brings smart control to your patio, allowing you to manage the spa’s settings directly from your smartphone. With 140 warm AirJets, this square tub provides a soothing massage experience for four to six people, heating up to a comfortable 104 degrees Fahrenheit.
This model is designed for efficiency and durability. It comes with an EnergySense cover that is 40% more energy efficient, helping to keep operating costs down. The FreezeShield technology automatically protects the inner components from freezing in colder weather, while the built-in MaxHold fabric beams provide superior stability and structural support.
Bestway SaluSpa Honolulu AirJet Large Round Hot Tub
For those who prefer a round design, the SaluSpa Honolulu offers a spacious and relaxing soak for up to six people. It features 140 bubbling AirJets that create a warm, massaging environment, perfect for easing muscle tension and stress.
Constructed with DuraPlus material, this hot tub is built to last, offering 33% more resistance to punctures and 56% more resistance to stretching. Like its sibling models, it includes the energy-saving EnergySense cover and FreezeShield technology, making it a robust and efficient choice for year-round use in many climates.
Coleman Palm Springs EnergySense AirJet Inflatable Hot Tub
The Coleman Palm Springs spa is a great value, coming with two covers: a standard cover and an energy-efficient thermal cover. Its 120-air-jet system offers two intensity levels, allowing you to customize your massage from a gentle bubble to a more vigorous session.
You have multiple ways to control the spa, either through the digital control panel on the tub itself or remotely via the Bestway Smart Hub app. The included EnergySense insulated cover is a standout feature, designed to be 40% more efficient at retaining heat, which helps reduce energy consumption and keeps the water warm for your next soak.
INTEX 28431EP PureSpa Plus Bubble Massage Spa Set
The Intex PureSpa Plus set includes everything you need to get started, including an energy-efficient cover, two headrests, and a built-in LED light for a more atmospheric soak. Its Fiber-Tech construction provides excellent structural stability and a comfortable seating surface for up to six people.
This model incorporates several advanced technologies for a better user experience. The built-in hard water treatment system makes the water gentler on your skin and the spa’s components, potentially extending the life of the product. The heated air bubble technology uses a PTC heater for efficient and safe heating performance.
DRELD P6931 Lay Z Spa Hot Tub Air Inflation Hose
This product is an essential accessory for many hot tub owners. The DRELD inflation hose is a replacement part designed to connect your portable spa to its control base, ensuring quick and consistent inflation when you need it.
It is compatible with a wide range of popular models from Bestway, Coleman, Intex, and Lay Z Spa. The hose is easy to install without any tools, and its threaded connectors with twist locks provide a secure, tight fit to prevent air leaks and improve inflation efficiency.
Bestway SaluSpa St Moritz AirJet 6 Person Hot Tub
This package offers excellent value by including the SaluSpa St Moritz hot tub along with six replacement filter cartridges. This means you have all the essentials for clean, clear water for an extended period right from the start.
The hot tub itself is built to handle cooler climates thanks to its FreezeShield automatic heating function, which prevents the internal components from freezing. It provides a relaxing bubble massage experience for up to six people, making it a great social hub for the backyard.
Bestway SaluSpa Bali Smart AirJet Inflatable Hot Tub
For larger gatherings, the SaluSpa Bali is an ideal choice, accommodating five to seven people. It features an impressive 180 AirJets, providing a comprehensive and invigorating bubble massage from all sides.
The stylish brown rattan print exterior complements outdoor decor, while the smart app control puts temperature and jet adjustments at your fingertips. It includes the energy-efficient EnergySense cover and the durable, stable construction of MaxHold fabric beams, ensuring both performance and efficiency.
MSpa 6-Person Inflatable Hot Tub, Round Bubble Massage Spa
The MSpa inflatable hot tub offers a touch of luxury with its Champagne Gold color and powerful 138-air-jet massage system. The jets create thousands of bubbles for a relaxing experience that can help soothe tired muscles.
It features efficient heating technology that raises the water temperature by approximately 1.8-2.0°F per hour, reaching a maximum of 104°F. Designed for outdoor use on patios and decks, it serves as a perfect home oasis for personal relaxation or socializing with friends and family.
Bestway SaluSpa Miami AirJet Inflatable Hot Tub
A popular and reliable model, the Bestway SaluSpa Miami AirJet hot tub is a classic choice for many first-time buyers. It provides a soothing massage experience with its system of warm, bubbling jets, perfect for a small group of people looking to relax.
Known for its user-friendly digital control panel and portable design, it offers a straightforward spa experience. Its durable construction ensures it can be a lasting feature in your backyard, providing a convenient way to enjoy a warm soak whenever you wish.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in the 10 Best Inflatable Hot Tubs for Your Patio
Deciding on the right inflatable hot tub for your patio can feel a bit overwhelming with all the options out there. I’ve spent a lot of time looking into what makes a good one, and it really comes down to a few key factors. Getting these right means you’ll end up with a spa that fits your life perfectly.
First, think about size and capacity. This is about more than just how many people can physically fit. A 4-person tub is a popular choice for couples or small families, giving everyone room to stretch out. If you plan on hosting friends often, you might want to look at a 6-person model. Remember, the listed capacity is often a maximum; for the most comfort, think about the number of seats you actually need. Also, measure your patio space! You need room for the tub itself plus a little extra space for getting in and out safely.
Next up is the jet system. Not all inflatable hot tubs have powerful jets. Some rely on air jets that create a gentle bubbling effect, which is great for a soothing soak. If you’re after a more therapeutic, massaging experience to help with sore muscles, you need to look for models with high-powered water jets. The number and arrangement of these jets make a big difference in the quality of the hydrotherapy. Check the pump’s power and see if it offers a water jet-only function for a more targeted massage.
Heating and insulation are what make your tub usable beyond a single summer afternoon. Look at the heater’s BTU (British Thermal Unit) rating. A higher BTU means the tub will heat up faster and maintain its temperature more efficiently, especially on cooler days. Good insulation is just as critical. Many tubs have insulated lids and thermal locking covers to trap heat. Without this, your energy bills will climb as the heater struggles to keep up. A well-insulated tub is cheaper and more enjoyable to use.
Finally, consider the setup and durability. Most modern inflatable hot tubs are designed for easy setup with a rapid inflation system and simple digital control panels. For durability, look for materials like puncture-resistant PVC or tri-tech walls. A built-in hard water treatment system is a fantastic feature that will protect the pump and heater from scale buildup, extending the life of your spa. Thinking about these points will help you find one of the best inflatable hot tubs for your patio that you’ll use for years to come.
FAQ
How long does it take to set up an inflatable hot tub?
From box to bubbles, the initial setup usually takes a few hours, but the first heat-up is the longest part. Inflating the tub itself is often quick, sometimes under 10 minutes with a high-speed pump. Filling it with a garden hose might take another 20-40 minutes depending on the size. The real wait is for the water to heat up. Most tubs heat the water at a rate of 1-2 degrees Fahrenheit per hour. So, if you’re filling with 50°F water and want to reach 104°F, you could be looking at a 24 to 48-hour wait for the first use. After that, if you keep it covered and maintained, it’s much faster to reheat.
Can I leave my inflatable hot tub out during the winter?
You can, but it requires some extra steps. While you can use an inflatable hot tub in colder weather, freezing temperatures are a major risk. If the water in the pipes or pump freezes, it can cause serious damage. If you plan to use it in winter, never turn it off and make sure the heater is always running to prevent freezing. If you’re not using it, you must winterize it: completely drain the water, clean the tub, and store it indoors. Leaving a non-operational, water-filled tub outside in freezing conditions will likely ruin it.
How much does it cost to run one of these hot tubs?
The running cost varies a lot based on your climate, the tub’s insulation, and the local cost of electricity. On average, you might spend anywhere from $20 to $50 per month on electricity if you keep it heated and running continuously. The biggest energy use comes from heating the water initially and then maintaining the temperature, especially when the outside air is cold. Using a high-quality insulated cover and keeping it on whenever the tub isn’t in use is the single best way to reduce your operating costs.
Are inflatable hot tubs comfortable and durable?
Modern inflatable hot tubs are surprisingly comfortable! Many have padded floors and inflatable headrests for lounging. The air-filled walls are soft to lean against. In terms of durability, they are made from thick, puncture-resistant PVC, often with reinforced layers. They are tough, but not indestructible. You should place them on a smooth, flat surface and clear it of sharp objects. With proper care—like using a ground cloth and avoiding abrasive chemicals—a good quality inflatable hot tub should last for several years, making it a great option for your patio.
How often do I need to change the water?
You should plan on draining and refilling your inflatable hot tub every one to three months. The exact frequency depends on how often you use it and how well you maintain the water chemistry. If you use it frequently with several people, you’ll need to change the water more often. A good rule of thumb is to change it when you find it difficult to keep the water balanced despite adding chemicals, or if the water starts to look cloudy or foamy and doesn’t clear up after shocking it.