Best RV Mattress of 2024

Just because you’re on the road doesn’t mean you should skimp on sleep quality. While recreational vehicles usually include a standard factory mattress, upgrading to a new RV mattress may help you get better rest between daytime adventures. 

RV mattresses come in a variety of types and firmness levels. While standard mattress sizes may fit some vehicles, many RVs have sleeping spaces designed for slightly different bed dimensions.

In the next section, you’ll find complete details on each of the picks that made our list of top RV mattresses. Our mattress database includes information on over 1,900 beds, all of which we’ve tested, handled, and rolled around on. When selecting our top RV models, we looked at mattresses with features that are best suited for the confined space of an RV.

Expert Tested. Sleeper Approved.

Over the past eight years, our Seattle-based Test Lab has performed hands-on tests on more than 4,000 sleep products — and nearly 2,000 of them are mattresses. 

As product experts, we stay up to date on the latest news in sleep science and product trends. We use this knowledge to fuel our data-backed recommendations. Many of our testers have worked directly with mattress manufacturers and visited actual mattress factories. On occasion, a sleep health expert might stop by to tweak a firmness rating.

When we test a mattress, we collect data across six major performance categories and combine these results with real-world feedback. We use tools and tech to monitor features like heat retention, motion isolation, and pressure mapping. In order to ensure our findings are inclusive of all sleepers, our team consists of people with varying body types and sleep positions.

Mattresses aren’t one-size-fits-all. The perfect bed for you is going to depend on general points like your body weight and sleeping position, as well as unique points like if you have back pain, if you sleep hot at night, or if you just like the feel of latex over memory foam. Our goal at the Test Lab is to help take the guesswork out of your mattress-buying process.

What to Consider in an RV Mattress

When shopping for an RV mattress, there are a few extra factors to take into account. Double-check the size of your sleeping space before shopping, as some companies only offer a few RV mattress sizes. It may also be useful to consider how often you’ll be using the mattress in relation to the price.

Quality sleep is important every night, even when you’re traveling. But if you’re sleeping on the road often and for extended periods, you may want to budget for a high-quality RV mattress. 

Otherwise, weigh the same considerations you would when choosing a bedroom mattress. The bed should address your personal needs and provide a balance of cushioning and support that suits your body type and sleeping position.

Mattress Type and Firmness

While all-foam mattresses are a common choice for RVs, other styles include hybrids, latex mattresses, and airbeds.

Foam mattresses are known for providing contouring and pressure relief, particularly models containing memory foam. Notably for RVs, some foam mattresses are able to deliver strong support with a very low profile. However, these beds often lack bounce and responsiveness.

Latex mattresses typically provide a buoyant feel. Although not as contouring as memory foam, this mattress type is usually lightly conforming and durable. 

Hybrid mattresses combine supportive coils with comfort layers made from foam, latex, or other materials. This design aims to create a balance between contouring and bounce.

In airbeds, air chambers beneath the comfort layers allow sleepers to fine-tune the firmness of the bed with a remote or smartphone app. Because of the technology involved, airbeds generally have a higher price-point. Most models require a power source, and they are rarely used in RVs. 

The best type of mattress for each sleeper varies according to their preferred sleeping position, body weight, and personal needs and preferences. 

Height and Weight

Determining the ideal size of an RV mattress often requires more attention to detail than buying a bed for home. 

• Mattress height: Evaluate the profile of the mattress in relation to your bed area. If your RV has a bunk bed or a pop-up trailer, chances are you’ll want a low profile. RV mattresses generally come in 6- or 8-inch profiles, but some vehicles can accommodate thicker mattresses. 

• Mattress weight: Check the weight of the mattress and the weight limit of your RV before choosing a model. As a general rule, lighter is better when it comes to RV mattresses. 

Quality and Durability

Road trips can take travelers through a variety of climates and remote locations, so it’s important to have a reliable mattress. 

An RV mattress’ durability depends largely on the quality of its materials. Foam in particular can vary widely in quality. Everyday care also impacts a mattress’ durability. To minimize wear and tear, avoid leaving heavy objects on it during the day or folding it often for storage. 

The more you use your RV, the more important it is to have a durable mattress. People who live in their RV for most of the year, or those who take frequent, extended road trips will want to invest in a mattress made with quality materials that are built to last. 

Breathability and Noise

RV owners should consider the mattress’ airflow and its potential for noise before taking it on the road. 

Mattresses made with breathable materials, such as pocketed coils or latex, allow air to circulate and lessen the chances of overheating at night. Foam tends to trap heat, but many manufacturers infuse foam mattresses with cooling gels to compensate. 

Since temperature is sometimes less precise in an RV than at home, it’s helpful to have a mattress that regulates temperature. Also, overheating can lead to night sweats, which may dampen the mattress. 

Couples and families should also consider the noise potential of the mattress, especially if any sleeper is sensitive to sound. While foam is relatively silent, coils may start to creak as they age.

What Sizes Are Available for RV Mattresses?

RV mattresses come in a wider variety of sizes compared to standard mattresses. Some of these sizes vary between manufacturers. We suggest measuring the frame or foundation to check against the mattress size before ordering. In certain cases — for example, if you’ve heavily customized your RV’s interior — a made-to-order bed in a custom size may be necessary. 

We recommend also measuring all the spaces that the mattress needs to fit through, such as the doorway to the RV.

Size	Dimensions	Description
RV Bunk	28″ x 75″ 30″ x 75″ 30″ x 80″ 34″ x 75″ 35″ x 79″	Many family-friendly RVs use bunk beds to save space. RV bunk mattresses vary in size to accommodate different bunk designs.
RV Twin	38″ x 75″ 38″ x 80″ 39″ x 75″ 40″ x 80″	RV twin mattresses are wider than bunk mattresses, but they are still designed to sleep a single person. Some RV bunk beds can accommodate RV twin mattresses.
RV Full	53″ x 75″ 54″ x 75″ 55″ x 75″	RV full mattresses are similar in size to a standard full size mattress. They can fit two people, but some sleepers may prefer a wider mattress.
RV Three-Quarter	48″ x 75″ 48″ x 80″	RV three-quarter mattresses are slightly narrower than the full size, making them a better fit for children who sleep next to each other.
RV Short Queen	60″ x 74″ 60″ x 75″	With the same width as a standard queen, RV short queen mattresses can comfortably fit two adults of average height. They are 4 to 5 inches shorter than a regular queen.
RV Queen	60″ x 80″	An RV queen is the same size as a standard queen, and is often the preferred size for couples.
RV Olympic Queen	66″ x 80″	The RV Olympic queen size adds an extra 6 inches of width to the standard queen size. It’s a good choice for couples who want more space to stretch out.
RV King	72″ x 75″ 72″ x 80″	Mostly found in motor homes and campers, an RV king mattress is 4 inches shorter than a standard king to help it fit the tight space.
RV California King	72″ x 84″	The RV California king size is 4 inches longer than a standard RV king. Both this size and RV kings can typically fit a couple and a child, or up to four children.

Where Can You Buy an RV Mattress?

RV mattresses are available for purchase online and at certain stores that sell mattresses or camping equipment. Some mattress-in-a-box companies sell their models exclusively online through their website, which often allows them to offer lower prices. 

Shopping in person allows you to see the mattress and try it out. This can be helpful if you need a mattress quickly for an upcoming road trip. That said, many online purchases include a sleep trial where you can try the mattress and return it for a full refund if you’re unsatisfied.

How Much Does an RV Mattress Cost?

RV mattresses may cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to well over $1,000. Larger and custom-size RV mattresses are often more expensive.

Tips for Making Your RV Mattress Feel Like Home

Your RV mattress should at least approach the comfort level you enjoy on your mattress at home. Here are a few tips to enhance your bed setup on the road. 

Protect Your Mattress

Mattress protectors add an extra barrier between you and the mattress, shielding the bed from dirt, allergens, stains, and other damage. Many are waterproof, and most can be removed and washed.

Mattress protectors that fit RV beds can be purchased at stores that carry outdoor and camping equipment, as well as retail sites like Amazon. 

Add a Topper or a Pad

A mattress topper or pad is a simple, affordable way to upgrade the comfort of your RV mattress. 

Mattress pads are placed atop the mattress to prevent spills, dirt, and other elements from reaching the mattress. They don’t drastically alter the firmness or support of the bed, but, depending on the material, they can make the mattress feel more plush or add breathability. 

Mattress toppers can change the firmness of a bed in either direction. They may add contouring properties or help compensate for sagging. Note that most mattress toppers range from 1 to 3 inches and will increase the profile of your mattress. This may be a problem for RVs with low ceilings.

Upgrade Your Bedding

Purchasing softer or more breathable bed sheets can do wonders to regulate temperature and improve your sleep. Likewise, a new pillow that complements your sleeping position and preferences can also be a game changer. 

Standard-sized sheets and pillows may work fine on many RV mattresses. Otherwise, many retailers that sell RV mattresses also carry specialty bedding for them.

Dive Deeper – In-Depth Mattress Guides

If you’re in the market for an additional mattress besides an RV model, check out our team’s picks in a variety of specialty categories.

How to Sleep in a Van

There’s RV living — and then there’s van life. To get a taste of what it’s like to sleep and live in a van, watch our video below. Learn some firsthand tips for building your best sleep environment in a confined living space.