Best trampolines for kids 2024: tried and tested by parents

Not only will a trampoline ensure unlimited fun and exercise for your kids all year round, the best trampoline stays fun and engaging as your child grows. Quite possibly one of the best outdoor toys you can buy, a trampoline is a reliable option for families with any sort of outdoor space, whether you have a small patio or a large, sprawling garden.

So if you're looking for the best trampoline for your kids - one that'll last for years to come and not prove too much of an eyesore for neighbours, you've come to the right place. To help you make an informed choice, we’ve tested and investigated the top models on the market, taking special note of the trampolines our trusted community of Mumsnet users rave about, especially those that have additional safety features.

A trampoline is a big investment but also one with which safety is paramount, so we also reviewed the latest safety guidelines, as laid out by experts from organisations such as the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA), to make sure that every product we were recommending met or exceeded European safety regulations. We've also put together our own guide to trampoline safety.

We collated all this information to draw up a longlist of products and then whittled it down to our top 11 – not only the most popular, but a selection that we think offers something to parents with children of all ages, and gardens of all shapes and sizes.

Here are the best trampolines to buy in 2024.

How we tested

Mumsnet's network of expert parent testers spent weeks putting the trampolines through their paces, with a little help from a team of junior testers, aged from 2 years right up to teens.

All the trampolines were judged on how easy they were to assemble (or not), quality, safety features, how easy they were to clean, whether they produced a good bounce and, most importantly, whether they were good value for money.

Trampoline safety – what you need to know

Trampolining can be an exhilarating activity for children, but safety should always be the number one priority regardless of the type of trampoline you choose.

RoSPA states that garden trampolining isn't suitable for children under the age of six as they are not sufficiently developed to control their bouncing. They also advise that children using a trampoline be supervised by an adult at all times.

So while many of the outdoor trampolines we've recommended have a three-or-over age range, we'd recommend that you follow safety guidelines as set out by experts.

Rebounders are a good option to use indoors with older children, but indoor trampolines with a safety bar will be suitable for little ones. .

Common outdoor trampoline injuries include sprains or fractures caused by awkward landings, many of which occur when two or more people are using the trampoline at the same time (it should always be one at a time).

As such, it's important for parents to lay down some ground rules. Tell your children to bounce sensibly – no somersaults or back-flips – and, if they do misbehave, don't be afraid to ban trampoline time if they don't take your rules seriously.

Not all parents enforce this, but children are much safer bouncing alone. Having more than one child is not only more likely to end in the odd bumped heads incident, but children of different weights bouncing at the same time can cause injuries too. Most trampoline accidents happen on the trampoline rather than through falling off.

When it comes to buying a safe trampoline, look for models with safety pads that cover the springs and frame, or enclosures (ie netting) that should prevent children from bouncing off the trampoline.

Outdoor trampolines should be placed on a soft lawn or similarly cushioned surface with a safe zone of 2.5 metres. If you do place the trampoline on a harder surface, such as concrete, always use a safety mat.

If you aren’t buying a trampoline that's sunk into the ground, you want to look for one with surrounding nets that will prevent your child bouncing off it. You’ll also need anchors to keep the trampoline steady.

All trampolines should comply with European safety standard EN71-14:2014.

How do I pick the best trampoline?

Before you begin, you need to know where you’re going to put your trampoline. Then you can start to consider the shape, style and size.

Measure your back garden to find out how much space you have to play with and opt for a part of the garden that's clear of slopes and branches.

Look for materials and components that look like they’ll last. It’s also well worth paying a little extra for decent padding on the frame and covering the springs. Accidents do happen, but a bit of padding goes a long way.

Brands that offer access to easy replacement parts are also a good bet. You’re likely to have the trampoline for a few years so being able to easily replace the nets if they get mouldy, or the padding if any of it splits, is a good plan. That way you won’t have to shell out for an entirely new trampoline.

What is the best size trampoline to buy?

What size trampoline you buy will ultimately depend on how much space you have, but ideally, you'll want to get the biggest trampoline you can to allow your children to grow into it (a 10ft or 12ft trampoline is a good choice in this sense). Although you might not want the entire garden taken over.

An 8ft trampoline is ideal according to parents on Mumsnet. It’s also the most popular size to go for. As one Mumsnetter says, “We have an 8ft trampoline and I think it’s big enough. I wouldn't want it bigger in our garden.” 

What is the best shape for a trampoline?

Consider a rectangular or oval trampoline if your garden is on the smaller side, as they fit neatly into a corner. Rectangular trampolines also tend to be bouncier and give you a bit more control in the bounce too.

Round trampolines are the most common, however, and offer a light bounce, while octagonal ones are a bit more interesting and give a good vertical bounce.

If you're concerned about your lawn, and are planning to move the trampoline regularly to avoid dead patches in the grass, then consider the weight of the model  when purchasing – some of them are pretty hefty.

Should I buy an in-ground or above-ground trampoline?

When it comes to space, aesthetics (no spoiled view) and safety (less distance to fall), in-ground trampolines are a popular option.

You should be able to set the trampoline into the ground yourself by digging a big hole, but you'll need to know about retaining walls, drainage and such. Might be one for the professionals unless you're very handy.

Above-ground trampolines are easier to assemble, but larger ones could take up most of your garden and potentially irritate the neighbours.

As this Mumsnetter explains, “I have a sunken trampoline and it's great. 3 kids under 5, and it's easy for them to walk on and off it, no chance of falling off (it's still netted though). Impossible to blow away in high winds, doesn't bother neighbours with privacy issues etc. It's great.” 

Can trampolines be left out in winter?

Most trampolines are robust enough to be left outdoors, however, as with any outdoor accessories like patio furniture and tables, it’s best to cover them with a sturdy weatherproof cover – to offer protection against rain, frost, and snow. (The size of the cover will depend on the size of your trampoline. It’s also worth checking whether the trampoline you purchase comes with a cover).

If your trampoline feels particularly light, it’s a good idea to anchor it into the ground using an anchor kit. This will reduce the risk of it flying through the air and into your neighbour’s garden should there be a storm.

A sure-fire way to protect your trampoline from the elements in winter is to dissemble it and store it away in a garage or shed. Although this could be cumbersome, it’ll go a long way towards ensuring your trampoline stays in tip-top condition for longer.

How much should I spend on a trampoline?

Trampolines range in price from approximately £30 to over £1,000 but you can get a decent one of a good size for around the £250 mark.

As with anything, the most expensive product won't necessarily be the best, so consider your budget as well as how much outdoor space you have before you buy.

The bigger you go, the more expensive, generally. It’s definitely worth buying a trusted brand here, like any of the trampolines we’ve featured. Now is not the moment to be scouring the middle of Lidl for a bargain.

Which trampoline brands stand out?  

Parents and experts alike rate brands like Springfree, Plum, Jumpking and TP very highly, however most of their products can be pricey.

More budget-friendly (but still good) brands include the likes of Chad Valley, which is typically stocked by Argos.

What is the best trampoline on the market?

Based on extensive research and after considering countless reviews from real parents who have personally used the product, we believe that the best overall trampoline for kids is the TP Challenger 12ft Trampoline. Despite its competitive price point, this model is made from good-quality materials and gets a thumbs up for its numerous safety features including a non-zip opening that closes securely, additional padding on the top bar and enclosed springs.

It's also a decent size, not too big or small and is suited to most children above age 6.

About the author

Laura Cooke is a Content Editor at Mumsnet, with a special focus on child’s play, outdoor play and toddler play content.

Laura started writing Swears By articles for Mumsnet in 2021, writing buyers' guides and product reviews to help Mumsnetters make informed choices when it comes to parting with their pennies.

Laura is also a freelance journalist and has written articles for publications including the Daily Mirror, the i, Metro, Stylist and Happiful magazine.

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