I really like this mattress so far. It comes in a box very protected. It was raining the day it was delivered, mattress was fully protected in a nice, thick plastic wrap. You “pop” the bag to open the mattress almost like a ballon. It inflates to the size it’s supposed to be! A great mattress and my kids loved the process. I would describe it as a medium firmness. Perfect for your achy back during the holidays.