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The Best RV Mattresses – Reviews and Buying Guide

Written by Tuck Staff

Quick Overview

Most medium-size and larger recreational vehicles (RVs) come equipped with some sort of bed that can support a mattress, but the sleeping spaces are generally smaller than standard beds and designed for mattresses with lower profiles. RV owners looking for a mattress can generally choose between specialty RV mattresses, which come in different sizes designed specifically for RV beds; or standard mattresses with lower-than-average profiles that will fit into RV bedding spaces.

Because there are both regular mattresses and RV mattresses to choose from, RV owners have a lot to consider. To make your decision easier, we did the research for you. We personally tested dozens of mattresses, sourced verified customer and RV owner experiences, and performed intensive product research. The list you’ll find below are the best RV mattresses 2020 has to offer.

After you check out our RV mattress reviews, we invite you to read on to learn more about how to choose the right mattress for your RV. Our Buyer’s Guide includes special considerations for RV mattress shoppers, insider buying tips, and other helpful information.

The Best RV Mattresses
First Time Buying a Mattress?

Hop down to our Buyer’s Guide for a crash course on finding the best RV mattress.

 

The Best RV Mattresses – Reviewed

Best OverallBrooklyn Bedding Wanderlust

Best Overall – Brooklyn Bedding Wanderlust

Highlights

  • 120-night sleep trial
  • 10-year warranty
  • Comes in several RV King and Bunk sizes
  • Available in three profile heights: (6", 8", 10”)
  • High-density foam core layer for durability
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Best OverallBrooklyn Bedding Wanderlust

brooklynbedding.com

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The Brooklyn Wanderlust Mattress is constructed with two layers of foam: a top layer of gel swirl memory foam and a base layer of high density base foam. The memory foam layer provides pressure relief and contouring, while the base layer lends the mattress support and durability. Together, both layers offer relief for RV owners after a long day of driving.

The all-foam construction allows the Wanderlust mattress to isolate motion transfer to a significant extent, reducing movement disruptions for those who share their mattress with a partner or family member while traveling. Thankfully, since the memory foam comfort layer is infused with gel and uses open cell technology, the Wanderlust should sleep cooler than comparable all-foam beds.

The Wanderlust mattress is custom made in the U.S. and is available in 10 RV-specific sizes, as well as 10 additional standard and otherwise custom sizes. Brooklyn Bedding also offers this mattress in three heights – 6, 8, and 10 inches – so customers should have no problem finding an option to fit their RV’s sleeping spaces.

Brooklyn Bedding offers a 120-night sleep trial on the Wanderlust Mattress and a 10-year warranty. The mattress ships compressed and in a box, which makes it easy to move into the desired location.

The Bottom Line.

The Wanderlust is a memory foam mattress made for RVs, constructed specifically to relieve the aches and pains that can occur after driving for significant periods of time. With three different profiles and ten RV-friendly sizes, including Short Queen and Short King, RV owners can easily find a model that fits just right.

  • Every type of sleep position (side, back, stomach, combination). Memory foam adapts to the sleeper’s body weight and pressure, cradling pressure points and supporting ideal spinal alignment as they change sleep positions.
  • Sleepers in all weight groups (light, average, heavy). Sleepers can choose a different thickness profile to achieve their desired firmness setting.
  • Those who prefer a traditional memory foam feel. The Wanderlust mattress includes over 2 inches of memory foam for conforming pressure relief.
  • Shoppers looking for a wide range of size and profile options. The amount of mattress sizes, including RV-specific sizes, and thickness profiles offered by Brooklyn Bedding is almost unparalleled.

Not Recommended for:

  • Very lightweight sleepers. Depending on their firmness preferences, the Wanderlust may feel too firm for some sleepers who weigh significantly less than 130 pounds.
  • Shoppers who want to be able to return their mattress quickly if they don’t love it. The 120-night sleep trial includes a mandatory 30-night break-in period.

Best for Side SleepersBear RV Mattress

Best for Side Sleepers – Bear RV Mattress

Highlights

  • Medium Firm (6.5)
  • 365-night trial
  • Lifetime warranty
  • Cooling gel foam and breathable outer layer
  • Celliant cover boosts circulation
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Best for Side SleepersBear RV Mattress

bearmattress.com

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The Bear RV Mattress has a sophisticated construction and cooling features likely to appeal to multiple types of sleepers.

The 8-inch mattress contains three different types of foam. First off is an inch of memory foam made with a cooling graphite gel, which absorbs excess body heat to keep things cool. The second layer is an inch of a responsive memory foam for pressure relief. Lastly, the base is formed from 6 inches of a highly-dense support foam. The large amount of dense foam means this mattress should be more durable than the average RV mattress.

The bed’s cover is a breathable synthetic fabric made with Bear’s Celliant fiber technology. Celliant is a proprietary fabric that is clinically proven to provide some added benefits to sleepers. The fabric absorbs heat from the body and converts it into infrared waves, where it is then absorbed back into the body. These infrared waves increase circulation, oxygen, and promote bodily recovery.

The Bear RV Mattress is available in three sizes: RV bunk, RV queen, and RV king. It has a medium firm feel that should support most sleepers of average weight or more. It comes with a 365-night sleep trial and is covered by a lifetime warranty.

The Bottom Line.

The Bear RV Mattress was designed specifically to sleep cool throughout the night, with cooling materials in each layer of the mattress. Beyond its cooling capabilities, RV owners appreciate the Bear RV Mattress for its excellent pressure relief, calming aches and pains after a long drive.

  • Back and stomach sleepers. An all-foam construction cradles and relieves pressure points, while the medium firm feel prevents sleepers from sinking too deeply into the mattress surface.
  • Sleepers in the average and heavy weight groups. The medium firm feel of the Bear RV Mattress is optimally supportive for sleepers who weigh 130 pounds or more.
  • Those who tend to sleep hot on all-foam beds. The Bear RV Mattress sleeps exceptionally cool for an all-foam bed, thanks to the use of cooling mattress materials like graphite and Celliant fabric.
  • Physically active individuals. Sightseers or more adventurous RV owners will experience enhanced pain and pressure relief from the responsive memory foams of the Bear RV Mattress.

Not Recommended for:

  • Side sleepers. The Medium firm feel of the Bear RV Mattress may not feel soft enough for side sleepers, especially those of average weight or below.
  • Lightweight sleepers. With the possible exception of some stomach sleepers, the Bear RV Mattress may be uncomfortably firm for sleepers who weigh less than 130 pounds.

Best LuxuryORB Performance Hybrid Mattress

Best Luxury  – ORB Performance Hybrid Mattress

Highlights

  • Soft, medium, and firm options
  • 100-night sleep trial
  • 10-year warranty
  • Hybrid construction features pocketed coils and foam
  • Fabric cover is designed to regulate temperature
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Best LuxuryORB Performance Hybrid Mattress

offroadbedding.com

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Off-Road Bedding designs mattresses intended specifically for RVs and off-road vehicles. The ORB Performance Hybrid Mattress is priced higher than the typical RV mattress, though it’s within the average range for a traditional hybrid mattress.

The mattress has a pocketed coil support core and comfort layers made from polyfoam and memory foam. The comfort system features gel- and copper-infused foams that are engineered to keep sleepers cool. The mattress has a 13-inch profile and is available in three firmness levels: soft (4), medium firm (6), and firm (7). Each version offers a different balance of cushioning and support. Shoppers are likely to find an ORB Performance Hybrid model that suits their needs, regardless of body type and sleeping position.

The cover is a proprietary performance fabric that’s designed to regulate temperature and enhance recovery. Shoppers can purchase the ORB Performance Hybrid in nine sizes, including standard mattresses sizes, RV queen, RV king, and RV short king. Off-Road Bedding ships this mattress free within the contiguous U.S. The Performance Hybrid comes with a 100-night sleep trial and a 10-year warranty.

The Bottom Line.

Shoppers who want comfort while on the road are likely to find the ORB Performance Hybrid a good fit. This mattress is responsive, supportive, and available in a range of sizes and firmness options. Though it has a higher price-point, it’s well-made and likely to have a decent lifespan.

  • Sleepers who want strong edge support. An 8-inch pocketed coil support core provides a stable base for sleepers who favor a mattress with a strong perimeter.
  • Shoppers who want to pick between several firmness options. This mattress is available in three firmness options, making it a suitable choice for a wide variety of sleeping positions and body types.
  • Those who prefer balanced features. Sleepers who like a mix of bounce and contouring may enjoy this mattress’ hybrid design. The support core and comfort layers are intended to provide sleepers with a responsive surface.
  • People looking for a luxury RV mattress. Though this mattress has an above-average price-point for an RV mattress, it’s on par with traditional hybrid mattresses. If you spend a lot of time in your RV, the extra cost may be worth it.

Not Recommended for:

  • Sleepers who prefer all-foam. The ORB Performance Hybrid Mattress’ construction offers some contouring, but it doesn’t have the close-conforming feel or targeted pressure relief that an all-foam mattress often provides.
  • Shoppers looking for custom dimensions. Though this mattress is available in nine sizes, you can’t order one that’s custom built. Before purchasing, you should check to make sure the manufacturer’s RV-specific dimensions will fit your needs.

Best CoolingORB Cooling Hybrid Mattress

Best Cooling – ORB Cooling Hybrid Mattress

Highlights

  • Two firmness options
  • 100-night sleep trial
  • 10-year warranty
  • Gel-infused memory foam sleeps cool
  • Hybrid construction promotes airflow
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Best CoolingORB Cooling Hybrid Mattress

offroadbedding.com

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Hybrid mattresses often sleep cooler than their all-foam counterparts because they allow more air circulation. The ORB Cooling Hybrid Mattress from Off-Road Bedding has a construction that helps regulate temperature with additional features that are designed to keep sleepers cool all night.

A 6-inch pocketed coil support core provides sleepers with a stable and responsive surface. The comfort system includes a 2-inch transitional foam layer, a 2-inch gel-infused memory foam layer, and a 1.5-inch quilted top that’s engineered to sleep cool. In total, the mattress is 12 inches high, which may be too thick for some RVs.

Shoppers can purchase this mattress in either soft or medium firm. Side sleepers and people under 130 pounds will likely prefer the softer option, while back and stomach sleepers as well as those who weigh above 130 pounds may enjoy the medium firm. Regardless of which option you choose, you should find that the mattress’ hybrid construction offers a balance of support and contouring.

There are nine sizes to choose from including RV queen, RV short king, and RV king options. Shoppers in the contiguous U.S. receive free shipping on the ORB Cooling Hybrid Mattress. Off-Road Bedding backs its mattress with a 10-year warranty and 100-night sleep trial.

The Bottom Line.

Shoppers who want a mattress that takes temperature neutrality seriously are likely to find that the ORB Cooling Hybrid fits the bill. The hybrid construction is available in two firmness levels and should provide a wide range of sleepers with responsive support.

  • Hot sleepers. The hybrid design and added cooling technologies featured in this mattress should help hot sleepers stay cool throughout the night.
  • People who prefer balanced support. The pocketed coil support core and foam comfort system work together to provide sleepers with a mixture of cushioning and support.
  • Shoppers looking for RV-specific dimensions. In addition to six standard dimensions, this mattress is available in three RV-specific sizes.
  • Sleepers of a variety of types and weights. With two available firmness options, many sleepers are likely to find a mattress that suits their needs.

Not Recommended for:

  • Those who need a low-profile option. At 12 inches high, this may be too tall a mattress for smaller RVs and vans.
  • Sleepers who need substantial pressure relief.. Though this mattress has memory foam in its support system, it’s unlikely to relieve pressure as effectively as all-foam models.

Best Pressure ReliefMattress Insider Elation Gel Foam RV Mattress

Best Pressure Relief – Mattress Insider Elation Gel Foam RV Mattress

Highlights

  • Flippable construction has soft and firm sides
  • 121-night sleep trial
  • 15-year warranty
  • 6-inch profile
  • Foam layers relieve pressure
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Best Pressure ReliefMattress Insider Elation Gel Foam RV Mattress

mattressinsider.com

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The Elation Gel Foam RV Mattress from Mattress Insider is an all-foam, flippable mattress that relieves pressure. It has a competitive price-point and is a suitable option for value seekers, especially when considering the materials used in its construction. The Elation Gel Foam RV Mattress is available in a 6-inch profile and over 20 sizes. If your RV needs a size not offered on the website, the manufacturer can build a custom option.

The support core is made from high-density polyfoam that helps provide sleepers with adequate support. Contoured foam that’s designed to promote airflow rests on top of the support core. The top layer is made from gel-infused memory foam that’s engineered to regulate temperature. The mattress has a soft and breathable organic cotton cover.

The flippable construction allows sleepers to choose the side that best suits their needs. People who prefer a firm mattress should sleep on the high-density foam side, while those who need pressure relief may want to choose the memory foam side. Side sleepers and those with joint pain will likely find that this mattress provides the cushioning needed to relieve pressure. High pressure areas like the hips and shoulders sink slightly into the memory foam, which helps alleviate discomfort.

Customers who purchase the mattress receive a 121-night sleep trial and 15-year warranty. Mattress Insider manufacturers its mattresses in the U.S. and ships the Elation Gel Foam RV Mattress free within the contiguous U.S.

The Bottom Line.

The Elation Gel Foam RV Mattress is a versatile mattress that’s priced competitively and can be custom-built. It’s available in a wide range of sizes and its all-foam design helps relieve pressure.

  • People who need pressure relief. The Elation RV Mattress has an all-foam design that closely conforms to your body. The foam layers alleviate pressure while providing even support.
  • RV owners struggling to find the right size mattress. Mattress Insider lets shoppers order mattresses in custom sizes and shapes.
  • Shoppers who want two firmness options. The Elation’s flippable design offers sleepers a choice between a soft and firm sleep surface.
  • Value seekers. This mattress features durable materials and is backed by a 15-year warranty. Its price-point is below average when compared to other all-foam mattresses, which may make it appealing to value-minded shoppers.

Not Recommended for:

  • Sleepers who weigh over 230 pounds. People who weigh more than 230 pounds may find the 6-inch profile of the Elation isn’t thick enough to prevent them from sinking into the support core
  • Stomach sleepers. Stomach sleepers typically prefer a firm mattress with robust support. This model may not provide stomach sleepers with adequate support.

Best RV Mattresses Buying Guide

Roughly 9 million Americans own a recreational vehicle, or RV, a broad category of motor vehicles that includes motorhomes, trailers, and pop-up campers. RVs are designed for cross-country travel, and most feature beds, bunks, fold-out sofas, and other accommodations for sleepers.

Choosing a mattress for your RV strongly depends on the type of vehicle and bed, as well as other factors like size, firmness, and price-point. In this guide, we’ll share everything RV owners need to consider when buying a mattress. We will look at mattress models that are commonly used in different types of RVs, and offer tips for first-time buyers.

Are RV Mattresses Different?

The biggest difference between an RV mattress and a standard mattress is size. RV mattresses can be up to 5 inches shorter than their standard mattress equivalent. You’ll often see these designated as a RV Short Queen or Short Twin. Although, some RVs provide enough space for a standard mattress length to fit.

RV mattresses are also thinner than standard mattresses, to accommodate the lack of vertical space. The average RV mattress measures between 6 and 8 inches thick, though mattresses up to 10 inches thick may be used in RVs. Due to their smaller dimensions, most RV mattresses have lower price-points than standard mattresses; the average model costs between $200 and $400 in a queen-size.

The majority of RV-friendly mattresses are constructed with memory foam comfort layers and high-density foam support cores, though other types of mattresses – such as innersprings or latex beds – may meet the sizing criteria as well.

RV Mattress Sizes and Dimensions

Standard mattresses used in bedrooms are generally categorized into the following six sizes:

  • Twin: 38W” x 75L”
  • Twin Extra Long (XL): 38W” x 80L”
  • Full or Double: 54W” x 75L”
  • Queen: 60W” x 80L”
  • King: 76W” x 80L”
  • California King: 72W” x 84L”

RV mattresses are designed for smaller sleep spaces and follow a slightly different sizing structure than standard mattress sizes. A standard King, for instance, has the same dimensions as an RV Eastern King, while an RV King is five inches shorter than a standard King. Other RV mattress sizes, such as the RV Twin and RV California King, match the dimensions of their corresponding size for standard mattresses.

The table below lists the most common sizes and dimensions for RV mattress models; please note that the dimensions are variable for some sizes:

Size Dimensions
RV Bunk 28W” x 75L”
30W” x 75L”
30W” x 80L”
34W” x 75L”
RV Twin 38W” x 75L”
38W” x 80L”
40W” x 80L”
RV Full 53W” x 75L”
55W” x 75L”
RV Three-Quarter 48W” x 75L”
48W” x 80L”
RV Short Queen 60W” x 75L”
RV Queen 60W” x 80L”
RV Olympic Queen 66W” x 80L”
RV King 72W” x 75L”
72W” x 80L”
RV Eastern King 76W” x 80L”
RV California King 72W” x 80L”
72W” x 84L”

RV mattresses also tend to be much thinner and lighter than standard mattresses. The average height of an RV mattress is six to eight inches, while the average standard mattress measures 10 to 11 inches thick. Most RV mattresses weigh between 50 and 75 pounds.

Choosing the Right Mattress for Your RV

For many RV owners, selecting the right bedding comes down to a simple choice: RV mattress, or RV mattress topper?

RV Mattress Toppers

The term ‘topper’ refers to an individual cushioning layer that provides extra padding for sleep surfaces. Measuring 1 to 3 inches thick, they offer a more comfortable sleep experience than mattress pads or protectors, which are primarily designed to shield mattresses from stains.

Mattress toppers are suitable for RVs with pull-out sofas that do not have sufficient room for a mattress, or RVs with built-in beds featuring mattresses that are often thin, excessively firm, and difficult and/or expensive to replace.

Just like RV mattresses, toppers can be made from a variety of materials. These include traditional mattress materials like foam and latex, as well as wool, feathers, convoluted (egg crate) polyfoam, and synthetic fibers. To learn more about topper options, please visit our Best Mattress Toppers guide.

Some RVs feature bunk beds that are too small to fit anything larger than an RV Bunk or RV Twin size mattress. In other RVs, the bed will accommodate an RV mattress of any size.

In the following sections, we review popular mattress options for different types of RVs.

RV Mattresses for Motorhomes

The term motorhome refers to any RV that can be driven, as opposed to those that require towing, but — unlike other large vehicles — they do not require a commercial driver license (CDL). Motorhomes are typically the most expensive RVs on the market, as well as the largest. They are divided into three class categories:

  • Class A: This is the largest category of motorhome, with some models measuring up to 50 feet in length. They have the largest amount of space, and often come with a wide range of features — including sleeping quarters that fit RV mattresses of any size, though some may be equipped with bunks.
  • Class B: Easier to drive and less expensive than Class A motorhomes, Class B models usually measure between 30 and 40 feet in length. They feature smaller interiors with abundant storage spaces underneath the fixtures. To save space, many come with smaller built-in beds that work best with a mattress topper or RV bunk size; others have enough room to accommodate RV mattresses of any size.
  • Class C: Unlike Class A and Class B motorhomes, Class C models are built onto the chassis of existing trucks with doors that provide access between the cab and the motorhome interior. They usually measure 20 to 30 feet in length. Most Class C motorhomes do not have enough space for full beds, and instead feature pull-out sofas or beds located above the driver’s cab. A mattress topper usually works best in these RVs.

RV Mattresses for Fifth Wheel Trailers

Fifth wheels are the largest category of towable trailers. They are named for a coupling that attaches the towing vehicle to the trailer that provides more flexibility and easier maneuvering, particularly during turns and when the towing vehicle is moving in reverse. Most fifth wheel trailers are large enough to fit full beds with RV mattresses of any size, but some have bunks with a more limited size range.

RV Mattresses for Travel Trailers

Travel trailers are fairly long and feature an assortment of built-in features for more convenience, but without the fifth wheel coupling they are more difficult to maneuver when towing — and it is virtually impossible for the towing vehicle to back up. They also tend to be narrower and have less interior space, and most feature fold-out beds that can be used with mattress toppers.

RV Mattresses for Pop-Up Trailers

These are generally the smallest towable trailers with sleeping quarters, and are designed for occasional campouts and relatively short road trips. They do not feature many — if any — built-in features. They also tend to be fairly short; as a result, thicker mattresses are not recommended — and mattress toppers may be the best option.

Most Comfortable Types of Mattresses for RVs

When choosing a mattress for an RV, material composition is another important factor. The next table lists the most common RV mattress types by material, as well as pros and cons for RV owners who use them.

The vast majority of RV mattresses sold today are either foam, innerspring, or hybrid models. We review each of these in detail below.

Foam Mattresses

Foam mattresses are made completely from foam, with higher-density polyfoam in the support layers and memory foam and/or polyfoam in the comfort layers. Foam beds, particularly those with thicker memory foam comfort layers, are beloved for their pain and pressure relief. These beds conform closely to the body to create a “hugging” sensation that relieves the aches and pains from driving all day.

However, that hugging sensation can also trap body heat, resulting in a hotter sleep surface. Many RV foam models will infuse their memory foam with cooling gel or graphite to neutralize the mattress surface temperature.

Foam RV mattresses come in a range of profiles, but owners should note that thinner models may provide a firmer sleep experience. Foam mattresses are also widely available and typically quite affordable.

Innerspring Mattresses

Innerspring mattresses have a uniform grid of innerspring coils in their support core, topped by layers of polyfoam and/or memory foam. In order to accommodate the smaller space in RVs, RV-friendly innerspring mattresses may have thinner-than-average comfort layers. As a result, they may feel firmer to sleep on, which may be ideal for stomach and back sleepers.

Over time, innerspring mattresses are prone to develop indentations and sagging, an effect which may be hastened when the mattress is exposed to the elements (as happens with a RV). They’re also noisier than other mattress types, due to the innerspring layer, which may pose a problem for traveling families with light sleepers.

Fortunately, these are one of the more affordable mattress types. Innerspring beds also sleep quite cool, thanks to their thin comfort layers and airflow-promoting coil cores.

Hybrid Mattresses

Hybrid mattresses are a blend of the innerspring and foam types. They use individually encased pocketed coils for support, providing more enhanced contouring than a traditional innerspring while still maintaining a suitable amount of bounce.

Above, they feature comfort layers of memory foam, latex, or polyfoam. These are usually thicker than what you find with an innerspring, so they can provide more comparable pressure relief to an all-foam bed, but with reduced potential for trapping body heat.

The issue with hybrid mattresses is that they can be tougher to find in an RV-friendly size, although that’s changing as this mattress type grows in popularity. They can also be thicker, heavier, and harder to move than either innerspring or foam RV mattress models.

Selecting Your Firmness Level

Because RV mattresses are usually thinner than standard mattress models, they tend to run on the firmer side. Many RV mattresses range from ‘Medium’ to ‘Medium Firm,’ as this range is most comfortable for sleepers of average weight, regardless of sleep position.

However, to accommodate different comfort preferences, many RV mattress brands make their beds available in a range of firmness sizes.

If you’re considering a model with different firmness options, and are unsure which is right for you, here’s what you need to know. Generally, most people hone in on their ideal mattress firmness by using their bodyweight and sleep position.

  • Bodyweight: Heavier sleepers require firmer mattresses to enjoy adequate support and avoid sagging, while lightweight sleepers find softer mattresses to be more comfortable.
  • Sleep position: Side sleepers enjoy the most comfort from softer mattresses, as these provide enough “give” for their hips and shoulders to sink deeper into the mattress surface and maintain optimal spinal alignment. Back sleepers also need some “give” for their pelvis and hips, but not too much. Stomach sleepers need firmer mattresses, in order to prevent sinking as much as possible.

The table below summarizes the most popular firmness preferences for sleepers, based on bodyweight and sleep position:

Important Considerations for RV Mattress Shoppers

When shopping for a new RV mattress and comparing different brands and models, here are a few key questions to ask yourself:

  • What Is Your RV Mattress Budget?

    RV mattresses are generally cheaper than standard mattresses — most cost less than $500 — but they can still represent a sizable investment for many buyers. Some models are available for less than $150.

  • What Type of RV Do You Have?

    Larger RVs, such as Class A and Class B motorhomes and fifth wheel trailers, may have sufficient room for a standard mattress, RV Short Queen, or RV King. In smaller vehicles, a topper or RV Bunk size may be the most suitable option.

  • What Are the Sleeping Quarters Like in Your RV?

    Built-in beds with mattresses that are difficult or expensive to replace may necessitate a topper. The same goes for pull-out sofas, which often do not have enough room to fit a mattress. If your RV has a bunk bed, then it probably won’t fit anything larger than an RV Twin or RV Bunk — though larger motorhomes and fifth wheels may be an exception.

  • What Size of RV Mattress Do You Need?

    As the earlier table indicates, RV mattress shoppers can choose from 11 different sizes and nearly two dozen dimensions. Carefully measure the sleeping quarters of your RV to determine the best fit — and remember that some RV mattress sizes have variable dimensions. RV owners with bunk beds are more limited in their sizing options than those with more traditional beds.

  • How Thick Is the Mattress?

    RV mattresses typically measure five to six inches thick, and most do not measure more than 10 inches; any thicker and you may have a hard time fitting it into the RV’s sleeping quarters, regardless of the interior size.

  • What Level of Mattress Firmness Do You Prefer?

    Generally speaking, RV mattresses tend to be on the firm side. However, softer foam and innerspring options are available for those who prefer less firm surfaces.

  • Do You Plan to Go Camping With Your RV Mattress?

    Innersprings tend to wear out when exposed to the elements because their metal springs are susceptible to rust, whereas foam mattresses have longer lifespans when used in these rugged environments.

  • Do You Tend to Sleep Hot?

    Whether you identify as a hot sleeper or you travel with your RV to warmer environments, you may benefit from choosing a cooler mattress type. Innerspring mattresses sleep the coolest, although foam and hybrid models can sleep cooler if they use gel or graphite in the comfort layers.

    You can help regulate the mattress temperature further by topping it with cooling sheets and pillows, or using a cooling mattress topper.

  • Do You Need New Pillows for Your RV Mattress?

    You can use your pillow from home, but you may find that it’s awkwardly wide if you’re using a smaller-size mattress in your RV, as most people do. You can select a pillow that matches the size of your mattress (e.g. a Queen pillow for a Queen mattress); alternately, you may opt for shorter Twin-size pillows.

    Just make sure the pillow still offers the appropriate amount of loft for your sleep position. You can learn more about pillow selection in our Guide to the Best Pillows.

  • Does the Mattress Come With a Warranty?

    Most RV mattresses come with product warranties, but they tend to be shorter than those attached to standard mattresses (primarily due to how they are intended to be used). The average RV mattress warranty lasts five to 10 years, but some models have 20 to 25 years of warranty coverage while others do not come with any warranty coverage whatsoever.

  • Is There a Sleep Trial?

    While less common with RV mattresses, many manufacturers offer sleep trials for their standard mattresses. These typically last 90 to 120 nights, and allow you to test the mattress out at home before returning it for a full or partial refund or exchange.

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