Purchasing a new mattress can bring some much-needed comfort to your camping or RV experiences.
However, when it comes to buying a mattress for an RV, it’s essential to ensure that the mattress will fit in the space you have.
There are also several options for different mattresses, so choosing the perfect one can sometimes seem like a bit of a challenge.
Here, however, are 11 helpful things to consider before buying.
1. RV Mattresses Are Different Sizes Than Standard Mattresses
Measurements for your mattress are one of the most important factors when it comes to selecting the right one, and RV mattresses aren’t always the same size as their standard mattress counterparts.
Learning the general sizes for several RV mattresses can help you choose a comfortable fit.
RV bunk mattresses are a popular choice since bunks help to save room in the vehicle. Bunk mattresses can be several different sizes, but they usually range from between 28 to 35 inches in width and 75 to 80 inches in length.
RV full mattresses are the next size up and are almost always 75 inches long. They can be either 53, 54, or 55 inches wide.
Queen mattresses are some of the most popular sizes for RVs because an RV queen mattress is the same size as a standard queen, so there are many options available.
RV queen mattresses are 60 inches wide and 80 inches long, but if you need a slightly smaller mattress, an RV queen short measures 60 inches wide and either 74 or 75 inches long.
RV king mattresses are 72 inches wide and 80 inches long, while an RV king short mattress is 72 inches wide by 75 inches long.
These sizes are about 4 inches narrower than a standard king mattress. For a longer option, campers can choose an RV California king mattress, which is 72 inches wide and 84 inches long.
2. Mattress Sizes Aren’t Set In Stone
Although there are a few standard sizes for RV mattresses, not every mattress company follows these sizes exactly.
Since your mattress will need to fit perfectly into the space you have available, it’s often best to contact the mattress company and ask for exact measurements for their particular mattresses.
3. Choosing The Right Size Is Key
Making sure that your mattress fits perfectly is essential, so for this reason, it’s best to measure the space or frame you have available in order to determine what size mattress you need.
You can also measure your old mattress, but mattresses tend to warp or compress after years of use, so measuring the mattress might not offer you the correct measurements you need.
4. Latex Mattresses Offer Support
After you’ve figured out what size mattress you’ll need, you’ll find that there are many different types of RV mattresses available.
Latex mattresses are some of the most popular options because they offer both comfort and back support.
Latex mattresses have two layers. The bottom layer is the latex itself, which offers a good amount of support. The top layer is made of foam for additional comfort and softness.
Campers can purchase either natural or synthetic latex. While buying synthetic latex is a better choice for the environment, natural latex won’t break down as readily, and it’s hypoallergenic.
5. Air Mattresses Are Surprisingly Comfortable
When most people think of air mattresses, they picture the inexpensive type that quickly deflates after one or two uses.
However, RV air mattresses are designed to be incredibly comfortable, and usually feature layers of foam or latex for added support and softness. Because these mattresses usually have two separate air chambers, each side can also be adjusted for different levels of firmness.
These mattresses are also much more durable than the average air mattress. However, care must be taken with them to ensure they don’t spring a leak.
Latex mattresses are some of the most popular options because they offer both comfort and back support.
6. Foam Mattresses Save Space
Foam mattresses are inexpensive and are usually only about 5 inches thick, so they’re a good choice when it comes to saving both money and space. These mattresses can also be quite comfortable, but they do wear out quickly, so they’re not a good option for anyone who spends long periods of time in their RV.
7. Memory Foam is a Good Support Option
Memory foam mattresses are more durable and offer more support than foam mattresses, but don’t cost as much as latex or air mattresses. This makes them a great choice for anyone looking for comfort at a decent price.
8. Density Matters
When it comes to foam or memory foam mattresses, the thickness of the mattress isn’t as important as the density.
A mattress with a higher density, such as 3 or 4 pounds per cubic foot, will offer much more support than a mattress with a lower density.
9. Returning Mattresses Is Difficult
When RV mattresses are shipped, they’re compressed down into as small a package as possible. Re-compressing them and shipping them back is very difficult, and it can also be expensive, so returning mattresses is sometimes a challenge.
For this reason, it’s best to be as sure as possible that you’re getting the mattress you want in the correct size before you make your purchase.
10. Foam Toppers Are A Good Option
Purchasing a new mattress can be time-consuming and, sometimes, expensive. However, sometimes, all an older mattress needs is a pick-me-up.
Foam toppers are easy to purchase, are available in a range of sizes, and don’t cost as much as new mattresses. Adding one of these layers to an older mattress can make a world of difference when it comes to comfort.
11. Test Mattresses When You Can
It can be hard to tell exactly which type of mattress you’ll like best, and buying RV mattresses through the internet or mail won’t allow for testing different types.
However, you can always visit a regular mattress store before purchasing your new RV mattress and try different types of standard mattresses. Once you find what you like, you can match it in an RV mattress.