If your RV doesn’t have a bed, you might as well be driving a car. What surprises many new owners is that RV mattress sizes differ from those at home. Choosing a mattress that’s too long can prevent you from comfortably walking around the entire bedroom. And one that’s too thick can render a critical emergency exit inoperable. So let’s learn more about RV mattress size selection and how you can find the perfect sleeping surface for your camper.
Are RV Mattress Sizes Different?
Many RV mattresses are different than standard residential sizes. A queen RV mattress differs from a residential queen mattress. This means you can’t make any assumptions.
RV Pro Tip: When shopping for an RV mattress replacement, always measure your existing mattress first. Some manufacturers produce short mattresses with varying lengths, so confirming your exact dimensions before ordering ensures the right fit.
What Size Is an RV Queen Mattress?
An RV queen mattress measures the same as a residential queen mattress, 60” wide x 80” long. However, an RV “short” queen mattress measures only 60” wide x 75” long. Therefore, it’s essential to understand the short distinction. Not everyone knows the difference, so measuring the mattress yourself is necessary to confirm. A short queen is more common in RVs because they take up less space, usually at a premium.
What Size Is an RV King Mattress?
The RV twin mattress typically measures 38” wide by 75” long — the same dimensions as a standard residential twin. You’ll find this size most often in entry-level travel trailers and bunkhouse models where space is at a premium. RV twin mattresses are also commonly used in RV floor plans with twin-to-king bed conversions. Because the dimensions match a standard residential twin, standard twin bedding fits without any modifications.
What Size is an RV Full Mattress?
An RV full mattress is the same size as a residential one, measuring 54” wide x 75” long. There are no other common variations of this mattress size.
What Size is an RV Twin Mattress?
Like a full mattress, the RV twin is the same size as a residential twin, measuring 38” wide x 75” long. There are also no other variations of this mattress size.
What Size is an RV Bunk Mattress?
An RV bunk mattress can measure many different sizes. This mattress has no standard size, and it varies significantly from RV to RV. However, most will be between 23” – 35” wide and 75” to 80” long.
RV Mattress Size Chart
| RV Mattresses | Dimensions (in inches) |
| California King | 72 x 84 |
| Eastern King | 76 x 80 |
| RV King | 72 x 80 |
| RV Short King | 72 x 75 |
| RV Queen | 60 x 80 |
| RV Short Queen | 60 x 75 |
| RV Full/Double | 53 x 75 |
| RV Three-Quarter | 48 x 75 |
| RV Bunk | 28-35 x 75-80 |
| RV Twin | 25 x 75-80 |
Some of these dimensions match what you’d find in a mattress store. For many RVs, shorter beds are preferred to provide space to move around the bed on either side.
When buying a new mattress for your RV, start by measuring your old mattress. If you’re already short on space to maneuver around the bed, see if a short version offers smaller dimensions than your current mattress.
RV Mattress Sizes vs Standard Mattress Sizes
One of the most common questions is how RV mattress sizes compare to the standard sizes they’re used to at home. The short answer: some RV sizes match residential sizes, and others are unique to RVs. The table below breaks down the key differences.
| Mattress Type | Standard Size (W × L) | RV Size (W × L) | Difference |
| Twin | 38″ × 75″ | 38″ × 75″ | No difference — same size |
| Full / Double | 54″ × 75″ | 54″ × 75″ | No difference — same size |
| Short Queen (RV Only) | N/A | 60″ × 75″ | 5 inches shorter than standard queen |
| Queen | 60″ × 80″ | 60″ × 80″ | No difference, but most RVs use Short Queen |
| RV King / Short King | N/A | 72″ x 75″ | 4″ narrower and 5″ shorter than standard king |
| RV King | N/A | 72″ x 80″ | 4″ narrower than standard king |
| Standard King / Eastern King | 76″ x 80″ | Rarely fits in RVs | Too wide for most RV floor plans |
| RV California King | N/A | 72″ x 84″ | 4″ narrower but 4″ longer than standard king |
The most important takeaway: if your RV has a “short queen” bed, a standard residential queen mattress will not fit properly. It will be five inches too long and may not sit flat on the platform. Always confirm the dimensions of your bed platform before purchasing.
Similarly, an RV king (72″ x 80″) is narrower than a standard king (76″ x 80″). Standard king sheets may work in a pinch, but they’ll billow on the sides. RV-specific bedding is widely available in short queen, RV king, and short king dimensions.
RV Mattress Types
Not all RV mattresses are made of the same materials. Like residential mattresses, there are many different options. Let’s find out which is best for you.
Memory Foam Mattress
Often considered a premium material, memory foam does a great job distributing your body weight, helping take tension off your joints.
All-Foam Mattress
Foam mattresses typically have several layers, making them a well-rounded option. They breathe well and contain hypoallergenic properties, making them suitable for all climates.
Latex Mattress
Another material you may find in an RV mattress is latex. Latex mattresses are also hypoallergenic. In other words, they won’t trap or hold mildew, mold, dust, dust mites, and more.
Innerspring Mattress
Like most residential mattresses, innerspring mattresses are also used in RVs. They are very economical and offer plenty of options. However, one downside of this option is that the springs inside can rust over time if you live or travel through humid environments.
Air Mattress
Air mattresses are highly customizable, so you always get the perfect mix between support and comfort. However, they lack durability, which could be an issue while off-grid.
Our Picks for the Best RV Mattresses
Cozyway Gel Memory Foam Restore Mattress
- Available Sizes: Queen, Short Queen, King, RV King, Short King, Full, Twin
- Thickness: 12”
Cozyway’s Restore mattress utilizes gel memory foam to help your body maintain a comfortable temperature throughout the night. The infused gel wicks heat away, and the memory foam distributes pressure without transferring motion, meaning you’ll feel less when your partner climbs out of bed for a midnight snack.
Brooklyn Bedding Dreamfoam Essential Mattress, Medium
- Available Sizes: Queen, Short Queen, Olympic Queen, RV King (3 sizes), King, Full, Full XL, Twin, Twin XL, RV Bunk (2 sizes)
- Thickness: 12”
Brooklyn Bedding’s medium mattress is available in nearly any size you need to improve sleep quality on your RV adventures. The hybrid design features a 7.5” high-density foundation under 2.5 inches of a transitional contouring foam layer. The remaining 2.5 inches is a layer of gel swirl memory foam for additional contouring and cooling.
Cozyway Medium Firm Renew Mattress
- Available Sizes: Queen, Short Queen, Olympic Queen (2 sizes), King, Short King, RV King, Full, Twin, Bunk with Angle
- Thickness: 8”
Cozyway’s Renew mattress is designed to offer therapeutic relief for side sleepers, snorers, early risers, and everyone else. Constructed from eco-friendly polyurethane foam, it makes it easy to find a comfortble position, helping you wake up refreshed and renewed for the day ahead.
Cozyway Medium Firm Bunkie Mattress
- Available Sizes: Bunk
- Thickness: 4”
RV bunks aren’t always equipped with the most comfortable stock mattresses. If your kids struggle to get quality sleep in your bunkhouse travel trailer, upgrading to Cozyway’s Bunkie mattress could be the perfect solution. It’s designed for bunks with rails and measures 72” L x 29” W.
Explore other bunk bed conversion ideas.
Brooklyn Bedding Dreamfoam Essential Mattress, Soft-Medium
- Available Sizes: Queen, Short Queen, Olympic Queen, King, RV King (3 sizes), Full, Full XL, Short Full, Twin, Twin XL
- Thickness: 14”
For those who prefer a thicker mattress, Brooklyn Bedding’s 14″ Dreamfoam Essential is a triple-layer mattress designed specifically for side sleepers. A 3″ gel-swirl memory foam top layer delivers cooling and pressure-point contouring, while a 3″ VariFlex transition foam eases you into the 8″ high-density base. Open cell technology keeps airflow moving, and the environmentally friendly finish protects against splashes and spills.
RV Mattress Frequently Asked Questions
If you still have some questions, you are not alone. Let’s review some of our most frequently asked questions to help put your mind at ease.
Can You Put a Regular Mattress in an RV?
Mattresses can be quite heavy. A residential queen-size mattress can weigh up to 150 pounds. In contrast, most RV mattresses are thinner and lighter, which is important because they typically rest on a sheet of ⅜” plywood (sometimes thicker or thinner, depending on the RV manufacturer).
The platform underneath your RV bed may not support the weight of a standard mattress. Consult your RV manufacturer to determine the maximum mattress weight your bed platform can support. Remember, it must support the weight of the mattress and all those sleeping on it.
Foam mattresses tend to be more lightweight than innerspring mattresses, so you’ll find many RV mattresses made of memory foam or gel foam. Hybrid designs provide the feel of an innerspring mattress with comfort layers of memory foam on top. Your best bet is to compare mattress weights, regardless of their construction.
Can You Move a Camper Mattress Easily?
You might not think about moving your mattress once it’s in your RV, but RV bedrooms are often tight quarters. This means you won’t have as much room to make your RV bed as you do at home.
You may need to maneuver your mattress around to add or remove bed linens. It’ll be much easier to do so with a lighter mattress. Beyond that, lighter RV mattresses will be easier to maneuver into your RV once you dispose of your old mattress.
You’ll need a mattress that flexes enough to navigate the narrow hallways in your RV. Many RVs have at least one tight turn before you get to the bedroom. That means you need a mattress that can swing that. Foam mattresses can be bent or stuffed basically anywhere.
Don’t count innerspring mattresses out, though. Many of them can hang a tight corner pretty easily. Get a friend to help, and you should be able to maneuver the mattress into the right place in your RV. Just don’t go too stiff because the last thing you want is a mattress you can’t get in your RV.
How Often Should You Replace an RV Mattress?
Most RV mattresses should be replaced about every eight years. However, it’s important to remember that these mattresses aren’t necessarily designed for full-time use. The more you travel in your RV (and sleep in your bed), the more often you’ll need to replace your RV mattress.
If you can’t remember how long you’ve had your RV mattress, just consider its comfort. Have you noticed any changes in your sleep patterns? Do you sleep much worse in your RV than you do at home? If you answer yes to either of those questions, it may be time for an RV mattress replacement.
Lastly, a note most of us don’t like to think about: your RV mattress accumulates “stuff” over time. We’re talking about dust, dead skin, sweat, and other things that come off your body or make their way into your RV when camping.
Replacing your RV mattress regularly is important for your health. Older mattresses can be breeding grounds for bacteria, so replacing your mattress regularly is vital to healthy, happy RV road trips.
Can I Add a Mattress Topper to an RV Mattress?
If you’re wondering how to make your RV bed more comfortable without buying a new mattress, consider getting a mattress topper. A mattress topper can completely transform the feel and comfort of your RV mattress.
Most people think of mattress pads and toppers to adjust the firmness level of an RV bed. They are certainly useful for softening your bed, but they can also reduce motion transfer, improve heat transfer, and provide pressure relief. High-density mattress toppers are just one of many RV bedroom ideas that can improve sleep.
Searching for more than a mattress – maybe even a new RV? Camping World can handle the entire selling and trading process for you.
What’s most important to you in an RV mattress? Share your sleeping preferences in the comments below!
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