Ever wished you could build a fort in mere seconds with no blankets or couch cushions required? Well, the AirFort promises exactly that. I tested it out after seeing some glowing Amazon reviews and getting requests to try out more kid-focused products. For around $50, this fort claims to transform any room into a roomy inflatable play area with just a fan. Let’s see if it lives up to the hype.
Where to Purchase
I picked up Air Fort for about $50 on Amazon. There are numerous designs available. The design I chose was “Digi Camo.”
First Impressions and Unboxing
A Fort That Inflates with a Fan?
The AirFort comes neatly packed in a compact carrying case. It’s available in various fun designs; I went with the camo print for this test. One of the main claims is that you can set it up in seconds using any standard box fan—no assembly required. Given the $50 price tag, I was hoping for some serious wow factor, so I dove right in to see if this would be a hit or miss.
Setting Up the AirFort
Following the brief instructions, I unfolded the AirFort, attached the Velcro straps to my fan, and switched it on. Within seconds, the fort inflated, filling the entire room. The setup was impressively quick, and the fan even added a bit of ventilation, which kept the space from feeling stuffy—a nice bonus, especially if you’re used to getting overheated in a typical blanket fort.
Inside the AirFort: First Impressions
Spacious, Cozy, and Surprisingly Cool
Once inside, I was struck by how spacious it was. At 77 inches wide and 50 inches tall, there’s more than enough room for kids to stretch out, play, and even lie down. I tried bringing in a Plufl—a kind of oversized beanbag bed—which made the hard floor more comfortable. The AirFort accommodated it easily, leaving enough space for a couple of kids (or adults, for that matter). While I worried the fan might be too noisy or breezy, it actually felt just right. The airflow even kept things cool, unlike the typical stifling blanket forts we remember from childhood.
Safety and Accessibility
The fort has a built-in mesh barrier over the fan area, which prevents curious kids from touching it. This feature makes it feel safe, even if the kids are playing inside alone. The lack of a floor also adds easy access from any side, which can be handy if little ones need to step out and back in quickly.
Deflating and Storage
Taking It Down
Deflating was as simple as shutting off the fan. The fort collapses within seconds, which adds to its ease of use. After removing the Velcro straps from the fan, I was able to stuff the AirFort back into its carrying case. Although the carrying bag felt a bit smaller than I expected, the fort is lightweight, making storage and portability easy.
Pros and Cons of the AirFort
Pros
- Easy Setup: Inflates in seconds with any household box fan.
- Spacious: Plenty of room for kids to play comfortably.
- Ventilation: The fan keeps it cool, unlike traditional forts.
- Portable and Lightweight: Comes with a compact carrying case.
- Safety Features: Mesh barrier keeps kids from touching the fan.
Cons
- Requires a Large Space: It takes up a considerable amount of room, so it’s best for larger spaces.
- Velcro Strips: If you need to switch fans, you’ll likely need to purchase new Velcro strips.
- Price Point: At around $50, it feels a bit steep for a simple, lightweight tent.
Final Thoughts: Is the AirFort Worth It?
Overall, I enjoyed testing the AirFort and can see why it’s so popular. It’s quick to set up, safe, and provides an exciting play space that can be enjoyed year-round. However, if you’re tight on space or looking for a lower-cost option, you might hesitate at the price. That said, it’s hard to beat the novelty and convenience, especially if you have kids who love fort-building but hate the clean-up.
If you’ve tried the AirFort or something similar, let me know your thoughts in the comments below.
Video Review
Check out my full video review of the Air Fort below.