The best kind of lounging is done when you're not just poolside, but chilling out on the water itself. An inflatable pool float allows you to kick back, relax and let your stresses float away. We've ranked the best products available at Amazon, John Lewis, Argos and eBay, including ones suitable for kids and adults alike, to help you find a stable yet stylish summer oasis.
Our unsinkable list includes some fabulously fruity options alongside more standard hammock floats — and even a few delightful extra-large inflatables to float with friends on. The top-tier brands to look out for in the UK are Sunnylife, Bestway and Intex, whose cleverly designed inflatables will keep you comfy and chilled out to the max. With one of our recommended inflatable pool floats, there'll be no stopping you this summer!
Quick List - Top Inflatable Pool Floats
A recommendation service that carefully researches each product and consults with experts across many disciplines. We are constantly creating new content to provide the best shopping experience from choosing ‘cosmetics’ to ‘food and drink’, ‘home appliances’ to ‘kids and baby’ products, reaching users all across the United Kingdom.
Table of Contents
Finding the right pool float for your needs is much easier if you understand what's on offer first. In this simple buying guide, we'll discuss the key elements of this type of product, to help you discover your favourite floating companion this summer.
The first thing to consider when shopping for a pool float is whether it's intended for a solo lounger or a whole floating party. Slim, single pool floats are designed to accomodate one person, with enough room for you to comfortably lie down without the fear of tipping over and going for an unintentional dip. They typically come in a rectangular shape that's easy to mount whilst also being sturdy enough to sit on.
Multiple-person inflatables, on the other hand, are larger and provide a super sturdy floating platform that can hold more weight. Their unrivalled float-ability makes them perfect for couples who want to spend some alone time on the water or for friends who fancy hanging out together like a bunch of seafaring pirates on the waves!
Leading on nicely from how many people a pool float is intended for, the maximum weight is another important factor to think about. You'll find that the majority of pool floats specify how much weight they can hold, giving you a good indication of their floating potential when fully-loaded.
Most one-person floats tap out at 80-100kg which will accommodate smaller/lighter people but may feel rather flimsy for tall people or closer to the max weight 100kg. Larger inflatables can handle around 160-200kg, so they're ideal for creating a stable floating island in the middle of the pool.
There are so many unique designs out there when it comes to floats that you'll be spoilt for choice! Hammocks, which are available as both single and multi-person floats, are one of the most popular options thanks to their reliability on the water. They create a plush platform that allows you to really stretch out your legs, get comfortable and work on your tan.
Another incredibly popular style of inflatable that has kind of taken the pool world by storm is the quirky bird design. Think flamingos, swans and other large birds that are synonymous with water, and you can bet that a brand somewhere has made a float in their shape!
Other popular styles include fun fruits like strawberries, watermelons, and avocados. Basically, anything that tastes of summer has also been turned into a pool float that looks good enough to eat — although we wouldn't recommend taking a bite out of your new purchase!
Sure, you can get by resting your head on your hands while lounging on a pool float. To get the full relaxation experience though, there's really nothing better than a purposefully designed headrest with plenty of padding.
Headrests come in all shapes and sizes, but their mission remains the same: to supply your head and neck with as much comfort as possible. Some brands even feature a backrest and an armrest too, to ensure you're as comfy as can be while chilling on their pool float. Although, just to clarify, they take no responsibility if you happen to fall asleep in the sun as a result!
The slight elephant in the room when it comes to inflatables is that no matter how careful you are, they are unfortunately prone to popping. The cause could be anything, from sharp pool edges and beach pebbles to long fingernails. Only one thing is certain — a popped pool float will burst the bubble of your day!
That's why some thoughtful brands have gone one step further with their online deals, supplying you with a repair kit to ensure that no matter where you are, the floating show will go on. Look for repair kits that come stocked with at least one patch, as this will rescue your float from an untimely demise!
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Bestway Double Mattress Pool Float | ![]() | Bring the Drinks Along for a Floating Good Time | |
2 | Jilong The Strawberry Lounger | ![]() | A Sturdy Strawberry Seat That's Ideal for Resting On | |
3 | Jojoin Fruit Pattern Pool Float | ![]() | A Fabulously Fruity, Inexpensive Hammock | |
4 | Intex Watermelon Pool Lounger | ![]() | Lounge Around on This Extra Large Slice of Watermelon | |
5 | Myir JUN Avocado Pool Float | ![]() | An Avocado Float That's Ready to Play Ball | |
6 | Pacago® Flamingo Pool Float | ![]() | A Giant Pink Flamingo That's Bound to Turn Heads |
Bestway's epic coil-beam-constructed mattress is our top recommendation for anyone looking to host a floating pool party. Boasting an impressive inflatable rim, the deep sunken platform will feel totally stable in the pool or even at the beach.
The extra-special feature of this inflatable that makes it stand out from the crowd is the dedicated drinks holder. Simply fill it with ice and your favourite summer beverages to keep the party going when the fridge seems too far to reach. Plus, it comes with a repair kit just in case. This is undoubtedly our favourite float.
This strawberry lounger by Jilong may not be the largest of inflatables but it sure is a robust one! When inflated, the coil-beam construction will feel extremely buoyant, bringing a carefree aspect to floating across water.
While sturdy construction is of course handy, it's the resting potential of the pool float that's important. Equipped with a solid headrest as well as those for your back and arms, this is one of those special inflatables that's effortlessly comfy and stylish.
The raised sides of this hammock float, as well as the two leakproof nozzles, create a sensible and sturdy inflatable. This makes for a comfy surface that allows you to cool off while stretching out and working on your tan.
The watermelon headrest is another great attribute of this float that'll have you living your best life, making you the envy of everyone around you. The impressive maximum weight, coupled with the fun and fruity design, really helps to seal the summertime deal on this product — it's a brilliant buy that'll cost you less than £20!
Styled as a slice of everyone's favourite summer fruit, this giant inflatable watermelon is ideal for two friends to lounge around on while catching up on the latest goss or discussing last night's episode of Love Island!
Intex's giant watermelon slice comes very highly rated on Amazon, with some reviewers even packing this behemoth to take on holiday for the whole family to enjoy. Best of all, it comes with a repair kit to safeguard it from sinking in the pool.
If you've fallen head over heels for the avocado in the last few years, then why not take that love affair one step further and float around on one? This charming design is incredibly popular on Amazon and for good reason — it's got a lot going for it!
The inflatable stone in the centre can be popped out at a moment's notice to play ball with friends when you're feeling active. The remaining hole will allow you to find a comfortable groove, while your head and back have somewhere purposefully built to chill. A unique design for people who like to both relax and play on holiday.
You're bound to impress your friends (and any onlookers!) with this fabulous flamingo inflatable that stands out not only because of its bright pink colour, but its quirky shape too. The large surface is ideal for one person or can fit two, although it might require a bit of balancing to stay upright.
The neck features two handles so you can sit up front while your friend does the hard work at the rear, paddling the flamingo along. This is a budget-friendly buy, especially considering the size, but it's not the most durable option on our list so it may only last you one summer.
Times spent in and around water are some of the most memorable moments for children and adults alike, but as water presents some inherent dangers, it's always a good idea to purchase safety gear for kids. We've ranked the best swimming aids, life jackets and paddling pools to ensure your little ones stay afloat while splashing about.
No. 1: Bestway|Double Mattress Pool Float
No. 2: Jilong|The Strawberry Lounger
No. 3: Jojoin|Fruit Pattern Pool Float
No. 4: Intex|Watermelon Pool Lounger
No. 5: Myir JUN|Avocado Pool Float
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
Automotive
Baby Products
Beauty
Books
Business, Industry & Science
Computers & Accessories
DIY, Garden & Tools
Electronics & Photo
Fashion
Grocery
Health & Personal Care
Home & Kitchen
Large Appliances
Musical Instruments & DJ
PC & Video Games
Pet Supplies
Sports & Outdoors
Stationery & Office Products
Toys & Games