Whether you spend only a few nights in your RV each year or live in it full-time, the right mattress is key to getting good sleep. But with all the options out there, choosing a mattress for your RV may be easier said than done.
RV mattresses are a lot like the mattresses used in homes that aren’t on wheels, but they’re generally a bit thinner, lighter and come in different shapes and sizes to fit your camper. Picking the best RV mattress can make a huge difference in your comfort when you’re having an adventure on the road.
Here’s how to choose a mattress for your RV so you get the best night’s sleep possible.
What’s Different About RV Mattresses?
RV mattresses are a bit different from the mattress you’ll find on most beds. For one thing, they tend to be lighter weight. This helps keep the weight of your RV in check.
Many RV mattresses are designed to adapt to different climate conditions. They also tend to be more flexible than a traditional mattress. This helps them fit into tight or unusually shaped spaces.
RV Mattress Sizes
And speaking of unusual shapes, RV mattresses come in a range of sizes and shapes. While some are customer designed to fit into certain RV makes and models (or snuggle into oddly shaped corners), there are general RV-specific mattress sizes.
For instance, the following mattresses start at these dimensions:
- RV California King: 72 inches/183 centimetres by 84 in/213 cm
- RV King: 72 in/183 cm by 80 in/203 cm
- Short RV King: 72 in/183 cm by 75 in/191 cm
- RV Queen: 60 in/152 cm by 80 in/203 cm
- RV Full/Double: 53 in/135 cm by 75 in/191 cm
- RV Three-quarter: 48 in/122 cm by 75 in/191 cm
- RV Twin: 38 in/97 cm to 75 in/191 cm
- RV Bunk: 28 in/71 cm to 72 in/183
Before replacing an RV mattress, measure your space carefully (and do it at least twice). Getting exact dimensions is important when choosing a mattress for your RV.
Start by measuring the entire space where the mattress will go, including length, width and depth. Then measure the length, width and depth of the existing mattress. These measurements will help you choose the best RV mattress for the space and ensure that it fits well.
Types of RV Mattresses
RV mattresses come in several types. Some of the most common include:
- Memory foam: Durable and comfortable, memory foam is adaptable to different body shapes and sleep styles. It cuts down motion but does absorb and retain heat easily. Gel memory foam can help you stay cooler.
- Innerspring: Contains coils or springs that provide support and sleep cool. Heavier than many other types of mattress and can be “creaky.”
- Hybrid: Usually made from coils and memory foam, these (pricier) options offer support and motion reduction.
- Latex: Breathable and hypoallergenic, latex mattresses resist dust mites and are flexible for oddly shaped spaces. They’re among the priciest options.
- Air: This space-saving option can be inflated with a pump and deflated for storage. Air is the most portable, but least durable, type of mattress.
Sleeping Position
When choosing a mattress for your RV, take sleeping position — stomach, side, back or combination — into account. This helps determine firmness level, so you can get the best RV mattress for your needs.
For instance, stomach sleepers tend to need a more supportive mattress. Choose a medium to firm option that doesn’t allow for much give. This helps keep the spine aligned properly. Back sleepers also require a bit more support. A medium to firm mattresses is usually a good choice.
Side sleepers need equal weight distribution, but not as much support. Medium to soft mattresses are usually best. Combination sleepers, or those who switch from side to stomach or back during the night, tend to fare well with medium firmness.
As a general rule, try to match the firmness of your home mattress when choosing a mattress for your RV. That way, you’ll feel right at home in your home on wheels… and enjoy a good night’s sleep, no matter where you are.