Whether you want to soak by yourself with a good book or hang out with your girlfriends and drink mimosas, there’s no denying the appeal of a hot tub.
Unfortunately, hot tubs are rather expensive, and since they require a dedicated installation by a professional plumber, they are generally reserved for those who own their own homes. With an inflatable hot tub, however, you enjoy the comfort and relaxation of a hot tub right in your backyard – or even your garage!
Inflatable hot tubs can be purchased for around thousand dollars, and while they aren’t a perfect replacement for a permanent hot tub, they’re a stone’s throw better than nothing at all!
After carefully studying all of the options, we believe the Skroutz 4 Person Inflatable Hot Tub is the best choice for an inflatable, portable spa. It’s affordable, easy to assemble, and includes over 120 massaging jets for a relaxing spa experience.
If you’re interested in buying an inflatable hot tub but you’re just not sure where to begin, this article is where you need to be. We cover what you need to look for in a hot tub, and then we provide links to some of the best inflatable hot tubs on the market.
What You Need to Know
Before you can buy an inflatable hot tub – or rather, before you should buy one – it’s a pretty good idea to know what features you need to look out for. The last thing you want is to spend $1000 on a hot tub and be disappointed because you were hoping for something more.
That’s the first thing you need to consider before buying an inflatable hot tub: they are not the equals of the real deal. If you buy an inflatable hot tub expecting the same features as a professionally installed system, you’re bound to be disappointed. Before you buy a hot tub, you need to keep your expectations realistic.
Now that we have that out of the way, let’s talk about some of the most important features of an inflatable hot tub!
1. Capacity
Unless you don’t plan on sharing your hot tub with your friends, you should buy with an eye towards capacity. Inflatable hot tubs are not generally as large as traditional spas, and most have a capacity for either two or four people. Some six-person models exist, but they’re pretty pricey.
Bear in mind that inflatable hot tubs tend to run a little cramped, or cozy. If you’re buying it to share with your significant other, this isn’t likely going to be a problem, but if you want your friends to pile in, expect to feel a little squished together.
2. Water Pumps
There aren’t many things more important to an inflatable hot tub than the water pump. The pump circulates the water in your tub, keeping it warm and, in the models that support jets, power those as well. You want to make sure the pump for the model of spa you buy is well reviewed.
Another important thing to consider is the power supply. Most spas plug into a standard grounded 120V electrical outlet, but they demand a fair amount of electricity to keep running. If you know anything about circuit breakers, you know that too many items pulling power from the breaker can blow the whole board.
Thus, it’s best if you designate an assigned breaker exclusively for your hot tub. Whether you’re running a traditional or portable spa, this just makes good sense.
3. Control Panel
All inflatable spas contain a control panel that lets you adjust the water temperature, control the heater, activate the jets if available, so on and so forth. But not all spas have readily accessible control panels.
Some models require you to get out of your tub to access the controls. While this isn’t a deal changer, it’s certainly obnoxious, and definitely something to keep in mind.
4. Temperature
There’s not much to say here except this: there is a very specific threshold of heat your body can safely tolerate before it becomes dangerous. Unsurprisingly, this ties in closely with your own body temperature. Most people prefer to keep their hot tubs between 100° and 102° F, roughly the temperature of your body during a mild fever.
The highest you can heat the water and stay safe is 104°, the temperature of your body during a serious fever. If you think about it, it makes sense that higher water temperatures become dangerous. Think about what happens to your body if your temperature rises to 105° or 106°.
Your organs literally begin to shut down from the amount of stress being placed on them. Do you really want to submerge yourself in a hot tub and place your body through the same conditions as a deadly fever?
5. Jets
Unfortunately, most inflatable hot tubs don’t have jets, but there are exceptions. They really aren’t necessary to relax and enjoy yourself, but they can definitely improve the experience. If you have your heart set on them, be prepared to spend a little bit more on your hot tub.
Should You Buy an Inflatable Hot Tub?
Portable or not, an inflatable hot tub still represents a significant investment. Inexpensive models run around $800 or so, and high-end inflatable spas can cost $1500 or more.
Before you get ready to spend that kind of money, you should have a pretty good idea of how often you intend on using it. Spending $1500 to soak in a hot tub once a month is a poor investment.
For those of you enjoy soaking on the regular, however, a portable spa can be a great way to enjoy your creature comforts even if your living situation doesn’t allow for you to own a traditional hot tub.
A hot tub can be a great way to relax and enjoy time with friends or loved ones, and if you’re going to put it to good use, it can be a great way to spend your evenings.
QUICK OVERVIEW
The Best Inflatable Hot Tubs
| Products | Features |
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EDITOR’S PICK
5 1+ 1+
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Check price
at Amazon
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MOST REVIEWED
3.8 1,960+ 1960+
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Check price
at Amazon
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TOP PICK
5 1+ 1+
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Check price
at Amazon
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BUDGET PICK
5 1+ 1+
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Check price
at Amazon
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BUDGET PICK
5 1+ 1+
|
Check price
at Amazon
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After carefully studying all of the options, we believe the Skroutz 4 Person Inflatable Hot Tub is the best choice for an inflatable, portable spa. It’s affordable, easy to assemble, and includes over 120 massaging jets for a relaxing spa experience.
Under $800
MidwestGarv27 4-Person Inflatable Hot Tub
Features
- Inner/outer diameter: 55’’/77’’
- 210-gallon water capacity
- PVC material laminated with foil
If you don’t have a lot of money to spend, the 4-Person Inflatable Hot Tub from MidwestGarv27 is your best pick. The hot tub has an inner diameter of 55 inches, an outer diameter of 77 inches, and comfortably seats three or four. It’s also perfect for a quiet, romantic soak with your girlfriend or husband.
The inflatable spa offers a number of desirable features. An inflation hose makes it easy to inflate your hot tub when you set it up, and a built-in hard water treatment system filters out calcium and other minerals for a more smooth, relaxing soak.
The experience is further enhanced by 120 massaging jets which can be activated via the handy, easy-access control panel at the side of the hot tub.
Made with a durable PVC material and wrapped with foil for added strength and protection, this is a fine hot tub that is sure to bring you hours of enjoyment.
It does use a lot of power – the heater consumes 900W and the jets 600W – so you’ll want to be mindful of how often you use it, and whether or not you choose to activate the jets. The tub has grab handles to easily transport it.
The spa has a 210-gallon capacity and comes with an insulated spa cover, a ground cloth, a filter cartridge, and an instruction manual. There are better spas out there for more money, but this is a great value for the price.
Rasika Shop 4 Person Portable Inflatable Hot Tub
Features
- Inner/outer diameter: 55’’/71’’
- 210-gallon water capacity
- PVC material laminated with foil
4 Person Portable Inflatable Hot Tub from Rasika Shop is another comfortable, affordable choice for an inflatable hot tub. Like the previous one, it seats two to four people, although, with a 210-gallon water capacity, it’s rather cozy if two people sit in it. The spa inflates quickly and easily, and almost no set-up is required.
This hot tub features PVC material for superior durability. It also features 120 massaging jets to calm and relax you while you enjoy your soak. Plus, it has outside handles so you can easily move it around.
Again, the heater consumes 900W and the jets 600W which is ok if you don’t use it every day. If you think of soaking up every evening, make sure you know how much energy it uses and how big your bill is going to be.
The Rasika Shop tub has a digitally-controlled pump with a control panel that is soft to touch. In addition, a built-in hard water treatment system keeps your water free from minerals and comes with an insulated ground cloth.
Best Inflatable Hot Tubs Under $1000
Skroutz Portable Massage Hot Tub
Features
- Inner/outer diameter: 55’’/71’’
- 192-gallon water capacity (80% filled)
- I-Beam construction with 3-ply PVC
The Portable Massage Hot Tub from Skroutz is a great option for a couple, but it can also fit 4 people. You can relax in it with the touch of a button on a soft-touch control panel.
The walls are made with 3-ply I-Beam construction reinforced PVC designed to resist tears and leaking, and the inside supports 120 relaxing air jets for soothing hydrotherapy and pain relief.
The spa also features 2 built-in handles for easier transport. It comes with a chemical floater to keep your water free from impurities and bacteria, an inflatable cover, 2-pack of filter cartridges, and an ebook with detailed setup and maintenance instructions.
With a virtually noiseless operation, this outdoor spa is ideal not only for friends and couples but for personal, one-on-one time with yourself.
Coleman SaluSpa 4 Person Tahiti Airjet Hot Tub Spa
Features
- Inner/outer diameter: 55’’/71’’
- 177-gallon water capacity (80% filled)
- 3-ply PVC and polyester walls
The 4 Person Tahiti Airjet Hot Tub Spa from Coleman is a unique, square-sized hot tub comfortably fits four people and offers 60 relaxing jets for superior relaxation and comfort.
The hot tub is quite durable. It features three layers of durable PVC inside two layers of polyester walls, providing a flexible yet durable body that inflates easily but is difficult to puncture or tear. This leak-resistant material helps to make the Tahiti Airjet an excellent value, ensuring long life and lasting satisfaction.
The biggest issue with the Tahiti Air Jet is the same that besets all SaluSpa products – the obnoxious placement of the control panel.
The massaging jets are great, but the last thing I want to do is half to get out of the spa to turn them on, and I inevitably forget to turn them on before I get in. This is a small complaint, of course, and doesn’t diminish the value or the durability of this hot tub.
The product comes with a pool liner, 2 filter cartridges, pool cover, spa pump, ChemConnect dispenser, LED light, and a repair patch.
Best Inflatable Hot Tubs Under $1500
Coleman SaluSpa 4 Person Inflatable Hot Tub
Features
- Inner/outer diameter: 55’’/71’’
- 192-gallon water capacity (80% filled)
- I-Beam construction with 3-ply PVC
Coleman SaluSpa Inflatable Hot Tub is another comfortable, affordable choice for an inflatable hot tub. Like the previous ones, it seats two to four people. You can inflate the tub easily.
The tub is made of durable 3-ply PVC and has sturdy I-Beam construction. It also features 60 massaging jets and a cushioned floor to relax you while you enjoy your evening.
The SaluSpa features a water filtration system to remove minerals and other impurities, keeping the water calm and soothing for you. In addition, a chemical floater helps to prevent the buildup of harmful bacteria.
The spa also features an inflatable cover that quickly keeps your spa secure, trapping in heat while keeping out leaves and other annoying particles.
With a maximum temperature of 104° F, this is a spa you’ll want to come back to again and again. It comes with 1 pool liner, 1 pool cover, 1 chemical floater, 1 spa pump, 2 filter cartridges (VI), 1 AirJet system, 1 air pad protector, and 1 repair patch.
Coleman SaluSpa Inflatable Hot Tub Spa
Features
- Inner/outer diameter: 57’’/77’’
- 242-gallon water capacity
- Durable PVC
Coleman has long been a well-respected name in outdoor and sporting goods, and for good reason – they make quality products. The Coleman SaluSpa Inflatable Hot Tub is a good product. However, when stacked up next to the Goplus spa, the Coleman is quite obviously inferior.
Although it is advertised as seating 4-6 people, the SaluSpa is scarcely any larger than the Goplus. Its standard capacity is 254 gallons, and I don’t see any way six adults could sit in the hot tub together and possibly enjoy themselves, although I suppose it might fit six if three of them were children.
In addition, the control panel is situated outside the hot tub atop the pump, making it inconvenient to access while you’re soaking.
On the other hand, the construction of the hot tub is quite clearly superior to that of the Goplus. While both are made out of PVC, the walls of the SaluSpa are heavily enforced and quite obviously superior, and far less likely to leak as a result.
In addition, the spa uses a cushioned air pad that improves the insulation of the spa, minimizing heat loss and saving you money. The spa does not feature massaging jets, however.
At the end of the day, both this and the Goplus hot tub are a good value for the price. Having said that, I’d take the Goplus over this one. It might not be as durably made, but it’s more enjoyable to relax in.
Skroutz 4 Person Inflatable Hot Tub
Features
- Inner/outer diameter: 58’’/75’’
- 210-gallon water capacity
- 3-ply PVC
A lot of inflatable spas claim to fit six people when in reality, that is a significant stretch to behold. Simply increasing the gallon capacity doesn’t magically make a 75” hot tub any larger. However, there are a lot of 75’’ hot tubs that are comfortable enough for 4 people.
Skroutz 4 Person Inflatable Hot Tub is one of them. It offers a capacity of 210 gallons, 120 massaging jets, and features a built-in hard water system to soften the skin by eliminating minerals from the water.
It comes with a lot of features, such as protected spread, hard water treatment framework, warming framework, skimming pool chlorine distributor, filtration framework with 2 channel cartridges, test strips, warm ground fabric, swelling hose and convey sack.
The spa utilizes two different filter cartridges that are easy to replace, keeping maintenance light and simple, and the body is made out of a puncture-resistant three-ply material that is durable and supportive.
The spa is a little more expensive than some other options, but its relaxing bubble massage and accessories that come with it make it well worth the price.
Under $2000
Skroutz Outdoor Portable 6 Person Massage Hot Tub
Features
- Inner/outer diameter: 65’’/85’’
- 290-gallon water capacity
- Fiber-Tech construction and 3-ply PVC
If you’re looking for a unique, attractive hot tub that’s perfect to share with your friends, the Portable 6 Person Massage Hot Tub just might be your best choice. Its size makes it ideal for a couple to stretch out and relax together.
The spa features an automatic start and stops timers that save you money and time while reducing energy consumption, and the spa is reinforced by the same durable Fiber-Tech construction and 3-ply PVC material that makes all SaluSpa products so durable and resilient.
The spa is outfitted with two filter cartridges that are easy to replace, keeping your water clean, pure, and refreshing. In addition, 140 massaging jets make this the perfect romantic getaway you don’t have to leave town for.
It comes with an Insulated cover heating system, an inflation hose, a 10W hard water filtration system with 2 filter cartridges, a 3-way water test strip, convenient grab handles, a thermal ground cloth, durable carrying bag, as well as cover straps with a child security lock.
This is the perfect give for a birthday or anniversary, and your significant other is sure to love it.
House Deals Inflatable Hot Tub
Features
- Inner/outer diameter: 65’’/85’’
- 290-gallon water capacity
- Fiber-Tech construction and 3-ply PVC
House Deals Inflatable Hot Tub is the perfect place to hang out and spend time with your friends. This big, 85-inch hot tub comfortably fits six people and offers 120 awesome, relaxing jets for superior relaxation and comfort.
The hot tub is quite durable. It features Fiber-Tech construction and 3-ply PVC material, providing a flexible yet durable body that inflates easily but is difficult to puncture or tear. This leak-resistant material helps to make the House Deals tub an excellent value, ensuring long life and lasting satisfaction.
The tub even has a perfectly-placed control panel. You only have to turn to it to change the settings instead of almost going out of the tub like with the Coleman hot tubs.
However, note that the initial heating of the tub might take up to 12 hours due to is size.
An insulated cover and lock are included to minimize heat loss, the grab handles make transportation simple, while the thick thermal protective ground cloth minimizes heat loss and protects the bottom. It comes with a durable carrying bag for simple storage.
Best Inflatable Hot Tubs Under $2500
Skroutz Outdoor Portable 6 Person Massage Octagonal Hot Tub
Features
- Outer diameter: 86’’
- 290-gallon water capacity
- Fiber-Tech construction and 3-ply PVC
Octagonal Hot Tub is the most expensive on the list due to its excellent features. It fits 6 people and features 140 relaxing, massaging jets that soothe your muscles and revitalize your body, leaving you feeling fresh, relaxed, and comfortable.
The body is made out of a reinforced Fiber-Tech construction and 3-ply PVC material, offering more solid support and greater resistance to tears and damage. It also features a padded, cushioned floor to help improve insulation, retain heat, and improve your heating costs.
The Octagonal tub has a warming framework that changes with the touch of a button on a conveniently-positioned control panel. It also features 3 outer handles for easier transport.
The big hot tub comes with expansion hose, protected cover, 2 channel cartridges, hard water filtering system, warm ground material, convey pack, gliding chlorine distributor, and test strips.
Conclusion
Whether you like to relax by yourself, with your partner or surrounded by friends, an inflatable hot tub is a fun and affordable way to hang out with the people you love while relaxing and feeling good about yourself.
Whether you’re on a budget or you can afford to buy the best hot tub on the marker, there are no shortage of excellent inflatable spas for sale. So what are you waiting for?
