RV Mattress Types Explained: Bunk, Short Queen, and King Compared

Nothing affects your RV travel experience more than the quality of your sleep. Whether you’re adventuring across provinces or parked for a relaxing weekend getaway, your mattress determines how refreshed you feel for the next day’s journey. And with RVs coming in all shapes and layouts, finding the perfect fit isn’t just about comfort—it’s also about choosing the right size for your available space.

This is especially true when selecting an RV bunk bed mattress, one of the most space-saving mattress types in the RV world. But how do bunk mattresses stack up against Short Queen or RV King sizes? Understanding the differences helps you create a personalized sleep setup that works for every traveller—kids, guests, or full-time RVers.

Understanding RV Mattress Types and Why Size Matters

RVs don’t follow standard home mattress dimensions. Space limitations and slide-outs require a mattress specifically designed for RV use. Selecting the wrong size can lead to awkward gaps, overhangs, or, worse, having to sleep diagonally just to fit.

From compact bunks to spacious king beds, every RV mattress size serves a different lifestyle, rig size, and sleep preference. Let’s break down the most common options.

RV Bunk Mattress: Compact Comfort for Smaller Spaces

If you’re travelling with children, guests, or multiple family members, an RV bunk mattress is often a must-have. These mattresses are generally smaller in both width and length compared to standard bunk sizes at home. They’re designed to fit into narrow, elevated sleeping areas that maximize floor space.

Typical features of bunk mattresses include:

• Lightweight foam construction
• Slim profiles for tight spaces
• Durable materials suitable for kids and frequent movement

A replacement RV bunk mattress becomes essential when the original one starts to sag or becomes too thin to support growing children or adult guests. Because bunk areas often see the most wear and tear, upgrading helps ensure everyone sleeps comfortably—even the person who “drew the short straw” and got the bunk.

If you’re looking to buy an RV bunk mattress, be sure to measure the exact frame size. RV bunk dimensions vary widely, and a precise fit is key for safety and comfort.

Short Queen RV Mattress: The Most Popular Camper Size

The Short Queen is the hero of the RV mattress world. Measuring approximately 60″ x 74″, it’s about five inches shorter than a standard household queen. This small length adjustment makes it perfect for trailers, fifth wheels, and motorhomes where every inch counts.

Why RV owners love the Short Queen:

• Spacious enough for two adults
• Saves valuable floor space
• Available in multiple firmness levels
• Works well in slide-out bed frames

If you’ve ever slept on the thin stock mattress that comes with most RVs, you know upgrading to a premium Short Queen is life-changing. The right mattress can transform your sleep experience from “tolerable” to “I could live in this camper year-round.”

RV King Mattress: Ultimate Luxury for Larger Rigs

For those with larger RVs—especially Class A motorhomes and luxurious fifth wheels—the king-size RV mattress offers a home-like comfort on the road. Measuring roughly 72″ x 80″ (with slight variations depending on brand), an RV King is perfect for couples who like extra room to stretch out after a long day outdoors.

Benefits of the RV King include:

• Maximum sleeping space
• Excellent option for tall sleepers
• Ideal for full-time RV living
• Available in premium foam and hybrid constructions

An RV King is the closest you’ll get to bedroom comfort while travelling, but remember: it requires enough space around the frame to maneuver and make the bed without performing acrobatics.

Comparing Bunk vs. Short Queen vs. King RV Mattresses

Here’s how the three mattress types stack up:

Each mattress category serves a different lifestyle. Families with children or multiple sleepers will benefit from bunk setups. Couples in mid-sized campers enjoy the flexibility and comfort of a Short Queen. Full-time RVers or those with spacious rigs often prefer the indulgence of an RV King.

Choosing the Right Mattress for Your RV Lifestyle

To pick the perfect mattress, consider:

1. Your Sleep Style: Side sleepers may prefer softer foam; back and stomach sleepers often need firmer support.

2. Space Availability: Measure twice, buy once. Every RV frame is unique.

3. Mattress Materials: Memory foam, cooling gel foam, and hybrid models each offer unique benefits.

4. Durability Needs: If you travel often or live in your RV full-time, invest in a sturdier construction.

5. Climate: Choose breathable, temperature-regulating materials—especially for Canadian summers and chilly nights.

Sleep Better with the Right Fit from Nomad Mattress

A great adventure deserves great sleep. Whether you need an RV bunk bed mattress for the kids, a Short Queen for everyday comfort, or a King for luxurious rest, choosing the right size and material transforms the way you experience life on the road.

Nomad Mattress offers high-quality, Canadian-crafted RV mattresses built for durability, comfort, and perfect sizing—no matter what layout your RV has.Upgrade your RV mattress today with Nomad Mattress and enjoy restful sleep wherever your journey takes you. Shop your RV mattress now!