A campervan bed is pretty much the centerpiece of the entire build. Around it, all else is built. So in this guide, we will examine 11 campervan bed ideas and how you can build one! Cosy night's sleep incoming... 💤 We will look at how to build a campervan fixed bed, folding campervan bed, pull out campervan bed, and sliding campervan bed. Every campervan bed frame or campervan bed system you can imagine!
I’m Shane, a van conversion professional dedicated to helping people transform ordinary vans into homes on wheels. I've authored Roaming Home, and teach The Van Conversion Course, guiding many people through their van builds. I also write The Van Conversion Newsletter, where I share practical tips and insights. After completing two van builds and living on the road full-time since 2020, I’m excited to share my expertise with you.
Now let's jump in and let's check out 7 of the best campervan bed ideas!
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Index
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Design the campervan bed first!
Broadly speaking, there are two types of campervan bed frame: fixed and non-fixed. In our 2023 study, we found that 57% of people install a fixed bed, it is by far the most popular of the beds discussed.
Before hopping into building a campervan bed, it is essential that you mock it up on paper or with CAD software first! Here is a full guide on campervan design that will help you get started. I highly recommend Vanspace3D for designing your campervan interior - it's an awesome drag n' drop CAD tool specifically for van conversions.
When working through the design of the campervan bed, there are a few things that you should take into account...
Van bed conversion kit or full DIY?
When starting your vanlife adventure, choosing between a conversion kit or a complete DIY method for your bed setup holds significant importance. Selecting a conversion kit can save time and guarantee a superior outcome, particularly for newcomers to van conversions. Van2B provides pre-built camper van bed systems, featuring foldable bed platforms with under-bed cabinets (among other bed designs). The products are compatible with Mercedes Sprinter, Ford Transit and Ram Promaster vans.
On the other hand, diving into a full DIY project grants you the freedom to customize every detail according to your preferences and potentially save some money in the process. However, DIY endeavors come with risks, such as potential material mishaps and of course, the time and relative skill level it takes to build them.
Account for the insulation & cladding
Make sure you take into account the depth of the insulation and cladding on the walls of the van - they will take away from the dimensions of the bed you are able to build.
Sleeping direction
Choosing whether to sleep length-ways or side-ways in a van is a surprisingly big decision. As a general rule of thumb, if you are taller than 5'9" (175cm), you will probably need to sleep length-ways.
I am just a hair under 5'10" and I need to sleep length-ways in my Ford Transit. However, different vans have different widths. You can find the dimensions of the most popular vans for conversion in this article.
A cramped sleep is a crap sleep. If you are intent on sleeping side-ways, there are two things you can do to give yourself more wiggle room:
Option 1. Create cut-outs: This means, using less insulation at the head and toes of the bed in order to give more sleeping room.
Georgia and Joe, owners of @Traceythetransit installed cut outs in their awesome build. Needless to say, there are pros and cons to this... Notably the lack of insulation can cause a heat bridge that will allow heat transfer to occur more easily, making winters colder and summers colder. But it might just be worth it for the extra room in your campervan bed!
Option 2. Install flares: Flares are protruding panels installed on your van which add more lateral volume. Flarespace is a particularly well-known and reputable manufacturer of flares for vans. If you do choose to buy flares, ensure you get flares for your particular model of van. Flarespace make flares for Mercedes Sprinters and flares for Ford Transits - note that they are slightly different sizes.
Flarespace even make flares with a sliding window in them - two for one! 👇
A van flare is installed in much the same way as a campervan window. Here is a video on how to install van flares.
In terms of campervan bed size, most people want a double bed of a comfortable size. Below is a chart of typical mattress dimensions.
Material Considerations for Bed Frames
When building a campervan bed, choosing the right material for the bed frame is essential. The three most commonly used materials are wood, aluminum, and steel. Each offers its unique set of benefits and trade-offs, from weight and strength to ease of installation and cost. This section provides a detailed comparison of these materials to help you make an informed decision.
1. Wood
Wood is by far the most popular material for DIY campervan bed frames due to its accessibility, affordability, and ease of working with. It is a flexible material that can be cut, shaped, and assembled with simple tools.
Pros:
Easy to work with: Wood can be shaped with basic carpentry tools.
Cost-effective: Typically less expensive than metal materials.
Aesthetic: Wood offers a warm, natural appearance that complements many interior designs.
Cons:
Heavier: Wood can be significantly heavier than aluminum, which impacts fuel efficiency.
Susceptible to moisture: Without proper treatment, wood is vulnerable to rot and warping in humid conditions.
Lower strength-to-weight ratio: Compared to metals, wood doesn't offer the same level of structural strength for its weight.
2. Aluminum
Aluminum is a lightweight metal that offers great strength and durability. It's becoming more popular among van lifers looking to save weight, especially in areas where fuel efficiency and vehicle performance are priorities.
Pros:
Lightweight: Aluminum weighs far less than both wood and steel, making it an excellent choice for saving weight.
Corrosion-resistant: Aluminum doesn’t rust, making it ideal for areas exposed to moisture.
Durable: Offers excellent strength for its weight and is not prone to warping.
Cons:
Higher cost: Aluminum is generally more expensive than wood.
Difficult to work with: Requires specialized tools for cutting and welding, making it less accessible for DIY builds.
We will discuss how build a bed with 80/20 extruded aluminum later in this article
3. Steel
Steel is the strongest of the three materials, making it a great choice for those who prioritize durability and load-bearing capacity. Steel bed frames are often found in pre-made or high-end custom builds.
Pros:
Extremely strong: Steel has the highest strength-to-weight ratio, making it ideal for load-bearing applications.
Durable: Resistant to damage and can last for decades if properly maintained.
Affordable in certain types: While stainless steel is expensive, mild steel can be quite affordable for van builds.
Cons:
Heavy: Steel is the heaviest of the three materials, which can add significant weight to your van.
Prone to rust: Unless properly treated or painted, steel is susceptible to rust, especially in humid conditions.
Requires specialized tools: Like aluminum, steel needs welding or specialized fasteners, making it less DIY-friendly.
Material Comparison Table
Material | Weight (kg/m³) | Strength (MPa) | Cost ($/kg) | Corrosion Resistance | Ease of Use | Common Applications |
Wood | 600-900 | 40-80 | Low | Low | High | DIY bed frames, basic structures |
Aluminum | 2700 | 70-700 | High | High | Medium | Lightweight bed frames, custom builds |
Steel | 7800 | 250-500 | Medium | Low | Low | Heavy-duty bed frames, custom installations |
With all that out of the way, let's hop in and look at 11 campervan bed ideas!
Campervan Fixed Bed
The campervan fixed bed is the most common type of campervan bed system found in conversions. There is no faff with setting it up, because there is nothing to set up!
Pros:
Ample storage space available beneath the bed.
No need to make the bed every day.
Simple and affordable to build, with plenty of DIY guides online.
Cons:
The bed occupies significant space.
Being closer to the van's ceiling can feel cramped and lead to heat buildup.
Requires additional furniture for seating and a table.
If we put our x-ray glasses on for a moment, we can see how it's built...
Building a DIY campervan fixed bed
The campervan bed frame of the fixed bed should be built with thick and sturdy carcassing timber. Gorilla glue is the best wood glue for carpentry. Bed slats are then installed on top to give a comfortable, springy feeling. We want to use slats rather than a solid piece of plywood so that we can get airflow, which prevents mould from forming on our mattress.
If you don't want to use bed slats for whatever reason, you can also use 4X1 timber.
One critically important thing that I want to point out when building a campervan fixed bed (or any weight-bearing surface for that matter) is the manner in which we join/screw timber together. Screws are not designed to take shear force. Weight-bearing timber should rest on top of the adjoining piece, it should not be screwed into the side. Make note of that when you are building your campervan bed frame. You can learn all about campervan furniture and carpentry here.
Another important consideration is the hardware used to secure the bed frame. The screws, bolts, and brackets should be rated for the load they will carry. Here’s a breakdown of some common fasteners and their load capacities:
Fastener Type | Max Load Capacity (per fastener) |
3-inch Wood Screw | 150 lbs (68 kg) |
1/4" Hex Bolt (Grade 5) | 300 lbs (136 kg) |
Steel L-Bracket | 200-500 lbs (91-227 kg) |
Cross Nuts / Rivnuts | 400 lbs (181 kg) |
Key Insight: For weight-bearing elements like bed legs and corner joints, it is best to use bolts over screws. A 1/4" hex bolt can hold up to 300 lbs (136 kg) per bolt, making it a safer choice for high-stress points in the frame.
You can design a fixed bed in VanSpace3D with all sorts of different configurations, like the large garage shown in the image above.
The legs of the campervan bed frame should be made of very stiff wood with zero flex. The legs are bolted directly to the walls of the van.
If you don't fancy doing a DIY job, but want a nice pre-built bed, you have a few options...
Campervan fixed bed - aluminum frame
If you want to do a really pro job, you could buy an aluminum bed frame from Flatline Van co. It is the best campervan bed frame on the market and excels in terms of quality and ease of installation. It's extremely sturdy and will last a lifetime. The bed platform is made with 3/16 aluminum that's laser cut, formed, and powder-coated black. The custom laser cut pattern and formed aluminum help keep everything light and strong, while providing ventilation to the bottom of your mattress to decrease the likelihood of moisture being trapped. The mounting brackets for the side are 12 GA powder-coated steel and have a variety of hole options to make fine-tuning your desired height easy, and to accommodate multiple mounting options.
Campervan fixed bed - wooden frame
If you prefer your build to be made entirely of wood, Flarespace make a great bed system. It's lightweight, vented, and moisture-protected. It's made of baltic birch, making it particularly strong. It is also compatible with Flarespace flares (note how it sits flush with the flares in the image below).
Table bed
After the fixed bed, the campervan table bed (dinette bed) is the second most popular choice of sleeping device. The table bed is the bed I have in my van.
Here's how it works: A table top is mounted on an adjustable marine pedestal. When the table is up, you have a place to eat, work, or have friends over. When the table is down, you have a big, luxurious place to sleep!
This system is my personal favourite. Yes I do need to lower the table and make the bed each evening, but the comfort it gives me in the van is amazing. I have a huge space to work from, can have 4-5 people over for dinner, and lots of headroom!
Apart from installing the bed on an adjustable pedestal, you will need to build two benches (they double up as storage containers) on either side of the table.
Pros:
Space-saving design, combining a bed, table, and bench seating in one unit.
Ample storage available beneath the bench seats.
Plenty of DIY tutorials accessible online.
Cons:
Requires daily conversion between bed and seating.
The table can obstruct movement within the van.
This image above (designed in VanSpace3D) shows a pretty much identical dinette bed setup to what I have in my van - I love it!
How to build a table bed in a campervan
Step 1: Build the Benches
First build the carcassing frame using 2X2 timber. These are your benches and your bed, so give it lots of structural support! Most of the time these benches will be installed over the wheel wells of your van, so create an interior frame for the wheel arches too.
After you have built the frames of the benches you can go ahead and clad or plyline them.
You can cut all this wood using a jigsaw or circular saw.
Note: These benches are identical. So batch your work! Double up the cutting of timber and cladding.
Step 2: Build the slatted top
Next we need to build a slatted top for each bench. Ideally you should use bed slats for this - they are spongy and comfy! In my case, I used 1X4 timber and it has done the job well!
Screw some cross beams into the equally-spaced slats to secure them together.
Finally, add some large box hinges to the top so that the slats can open and close.
Step 3: Install the table
Cut the table to length using a circular saw. It can either match the length of the benches, or you can make it shorter if you are installing a third horizontal bench at the back of the van like I did.
Then screw the marine pedestal into the centre of the table (from the underside clearly...).
Next you can go ahead and screw the pedestal into the floor of the van. Use BIG screws for this.
Finally, screw a thick piece of carcassing timber along the top of each bench. This holds up the table when it is lowered.
Folding campervan bed
Next up we have the folding campervan bed! @jakeheard came up with this bed shown in the image below! A bench/sofa that doubles up as a bed. It is a multifunctional piece of furniture that serves as both a seating area and a bed. It folds out or slides into a flat sleeping surface at night and retracts into a comfortable sofa during the day, offering a flexible solution for smaller spaces in campervans. Ideal for those who want to maximize their living space without sacrificing comfort, a sofa bed can transform a small van interior into a cozy home.
The design of this campervan bed system is very simple. The carcass is made of 2X2 timber, and the top is ply lined. The two sections are attached together with several box hinges. The important thing to keep in mind here is that the backrest should be the same height as the legs of the bench part.
The backrest should have an angle of 15°. In order to cut the carcassing timber (4X1) at this angle you can use a miter saw. If you don't have a miter saw, you can use a miter block.
☝️ This is how you might design your folding campervan bed in VanSpace3D. Equipped with sliding drawers and a cute black cat!
Pros:
Space-saving: Combines seating and sleeping in one unit, which is perfect for compact campervan layouts.
Comfortable seating: Provides a relaxing sofa during the day, making it ideal for lounging, working, or socializing.
Flexible configurations: Many sofa beds come in a variety of styles, including pull-out or fold-down designs, allowing you to choose a model that fits your space.
DIY-friendly: Simple designs can be built at home, offering a cost-effective alternative to purchasing a pre-made system.
Cons:
Requires daily setup: You’ll need to convert the sofa into a bed and back again each day, which might be inconvenient for some.
Limited storage: Unlike fixed beds, most sofa beds lack built-in storage underneath, although some designs offer small compartments.
Bed comfort varies: Depending on the design, the bed may not be as comfortable as other options, especially if the sofa cushions are thin or uneven.
A campervan sofa bed is perfect for vanlifers who want to maintain a living room feel during the day and convert it to a sleeping space at night. Its flexibility and dual-purpose design make it a popular choice for those seeking both comfort and functionality in their van conversions.
Pull out campervan bed
The pull out campervan bed is another popular choice. Also known as a murphy bed, the pull out campervan bed is stored upright in the wall when not used and pulled down when needed. This gives you a lot of living space during the day! I thought the build below by @rydawell was particularly beautiful.
Here's a detailed video on how to build a pull out campervan bed.
Pros:
Space-saving when not in use.
Plenty of DIY tutorials are accessible.
Cons:
Requires daily stowing of the bed.
No under-bed storage available.
Separate table and seating are necessary.
This is how you might design a pull out campervan bed in VanSpace3D.
You can also buy pre-built murphy bed systems. Rigwell have developed a super-compact pull out campervan bed system that stows away very compactly. It has three distinct modes; Stow, Work, and Chill. You can choose to have the bed totally out of the way (Stow), use the bed as a desk/work surface (Work), or as a bed and hangout (Chill).
Though the Rigwell system is very cool, it's also very expensive. If you're looking for a cheaper version, you could get a Monk Bunk instead👇.
Rock and roll bed
A rock and roll bed is a versatile seating and sleeping solution often used in campervan conversions. It serves as both a bench seat during the day and a comfortable bed at night, making it ideal for maximizing space in smaller vans. This type of bed folds out with a simple "rock and roll" mechanism, allowing for a quick transformation between seating and sleeping arrangements.
Pros:
Space-efficient: It serves a dual purpose, functioning as both seating and a bed, saving space in the campervan.
Easy to operate: The folding mechanism makes converting the bed quick and hassle-free.
Comfortable seating: When folded up, it provides a cushioned bench seat, making it perfect for relaxing or dining during the day.
Storage-friendly: Some designs include storage compartments beneath the seat, providing extra space for essentials.
Cons:
Complex installation: The folding mechanism and sturdy frame can make installation more challenging, especially for DIY builds.
Costly: High-quality rock and roll beds, especially those with integrated seat belts for passenger safety, can be expensive.
Limited bed size: Depending on the van’s dimensions, the bed may not be as large or luxurious as a fixed bed system.
For those looking for a functional and space-saving campervan bed system, a rock and roll bed strikes a good balance between comfort and practicality, making it a popular choice among van lifers.
Sliding campervan bed
Next up we have the sliding campervan bed. Also known as a slat bed, the sliding campervan bed is a really efficient use of space. When not in use, it slides together to become half the size. I'm a really big fan of this type of bed - after a table bed, I think the sliding campervan bed is the next best convertible bed. Below is a photo of how @rayphungphoto built his.
Here are some plans on how to make a sliding campervan bed:
Campervan bed lift system
Okay, now we're getting into the seriously hi-tech systems. In the last couple years people have started building campervan bed lift systems. These are electrical beds that can be raised up and stored in the roof when not in use.
A campervan bed lift system is certainly something you could show proudly to all your friends. However, two important things come to mind... This system will take away from the standing height of your van, so it is not for tall people. The campervan bed lift system also draws a lot of juice from the leisure batteries, so you will probably need a big electrical system.
Lippert is a well known manufacturer of campervan bed lift systems. Their bed lift system has a vertical travel distance of approximately 95cm. Happy Jack is another well known brand.
Pros:
Maximizes space efficiency.
No daily bed-making required.
Cons:
Challenging to install.
Costly to construct.
Lacks built-in storage space.
Requires a separate seating and table area.
Alternatively, you could build a campervan bed lift system from scratch! You will need to buy linear actuators with sufficient lifting capacity and stroke. That is the device which will lift the bed up. Here is a video on how to build one by the awesome youtuber Seven O Savage!
☝️ Designing a campervan bed lift system in VanSpace3D.
Campervan Bunk Beds
If you've got swivel seat up front and are looking for extra bedding for guests or for little
Cabbunk Bed
If you've got swivel seat up front and are looking for extra bedding for guests or for little ones, Cabbunk beds are a great option 👇.
Standard bunks beds
Campervan bunk beds are a fantastic option for families or anyone traveling with multiple people, as they maximize vertical space by stacking two sleeping areas. This design is particularly useful in smaller vans where floor space is limited, offering an efficient way to add extra sleeping spots without compromising on living space. Bunk beds are typically built along one side of the van, and they can be custom-sized to fit the van’s dimensions.
When I designed the bunk bed in VanSpace3D, I chose to make the childrens bunk 'murphy style', ie. it can fold away when not in use. This is more space efficient, and will make your van more comfortable when the upper bunk is not in use.
Pros:
Great for multiple people: Accommodates two or more sleepers in the same footprint.
Space-efficient: Stacks sleeping areas vertically, freeing up floor space for other uses.
DIY options available: There are plenty of DIY guides and designs for bunk beds, making it a flexible option for van builders.
Cons:
Limited headroom: Each bunk may have restricted headspace, which can feel cramped for some.
More complex build: Requires careful planning and construction, especially to ensure stability and safety.
Access to the top bunk: Depending on the design, getting in and out of the top bunk may require a ladder or steps, which can be less convenient.
Campervan bunk beds are an ideal solution for maximizing sleeping capacity in a small space. They’re especially practical for families and groups, offering separate beds while leaving plenty of room for other living essentials.
Campervan hammock bed
The last feature in our campervan bed ideas lineup is the campervan hammock bed. Simple, weight & space efficient, and damn comfy!
The campervan hammock bed is one of the easier beds to install. All it requires is heavy duty eyelets on either end. The eyelets should be attached directly to the metal structure of the van. DD Hammocks is one of the best known manufacturers of hammocks.
L-Couch bed
The L-couch pull-out bed is a clever and practical option for campervans, offering both seating and sleeping space. This design features an L-shaped sofa that pulls out into a bed at night, making it a versatile choice for those looking to optimize the layout of their van. The L-shape not only provides extra seating during the day but also makes lounging more comfortable. When it's time to sleep, the bed can easily be extended using sliding slats, creating a cozy sleeping area.
Pros:
Space efficient: Serves as both a seating area and a bed without taking up too much room.
Comfortable for lounging: The L-shape provides extra seating space for relaxation during the day.
DIY-friendly: Many online tutorials make it easy to build, even for beginners.
Cons:
Requires daily conversion: The bed needs to be pulled out and put away each day.
Limited storage space underneath: The pull-out design restricts storage options beneath the couch.
Separate table needed: You’ll need to install a separate table for dining or working.
This is how you might build an L-couch bed for your campervan in VanSpace3D.
The L-couch pull-out bed is perfect for those who want to maximize comfort and space efficiency in their campervan, offering a blend of functionality and coziness.
Using 80/20 Extruded Aluminum for the Bed Frame
80/20 extruded aluminum is an excellent choice for building a lightweight yet durable campervan bed frame. This material, commonly used in industrial and structural applications, offers several advantages for van conversions, especially in terms of strength, customizability, and ease of assembly.
Here's a breakdown of how 80/20 aluminum can be used effectively for bed construction in a campervan:
Benefits of 80/20 Aluminum
Lightweight but Strong: Extruded aluminum offers a high strength-to-weight ratio, meaning you get a durable frame that doesn't add much weight to the van, making it ideal for vehicle applications where keeping the weight down is critical.
Modular and Adjustable: The 80/20 system is fully modular, which means you can adjust the bed frame size to fit your van’s dimensions and your personal needs. The T-slot design allows for easy attachment of additional components like drawers or storage underneath the bed.
Corrosion Resistant: Unlike steel, aluminum doesn’t rust, making it an ideal material for long-term use, especially in humid environments common in van life.
Precision and Clean Aesthetic: The clean, modern look of aluminum adds a professional aesthetic to your build, and its precision cuts and fittings ensure a tight, well-aligned frame.
Components of an 80/20 Bed Frame
To construct a bed frame using 80/20 aluminum, you will generally need:
Extruded T-slot Aluminum Profiles: These come in various sizes, with the 10 Series (1-inch profile) and 15 Series (1.5-inch profile) being popular choices for bed frames.
Joining Plates and Corner Brackets: These secure the aluminum profiles at the corners and junctions.
End Caps: These cap off the open ends of the aluminum for a neat finish.
Slat or Plywood Platform: Depending on your preference, you can attach wooden slats or a plywood board to the top of the aluminum frame to support your mattress.
Assembly and Customization
Ease of Assembly: One of the biggest advantages of 80/20 extruded aluminum is its DIY-friendly nature. Using standard connectors, bolts, and plates, you can assemble the frame without any welding or specialized tools. If changes are needed in the future (e.g., adjusting the bed height or adding storage), you can easily modify the structure.
Customizable Dimensions: You can tailor the bed frame to fit your exact needs, whether it's a fixed platform bed or an adjustable height system that raises the bed during the day to increase usable space below. Many van builders choose to incorporate sliding mechanisms or removable sections to make the bed more versatile.
Weight and Load-Bearing Capacity
Despite its lightweight nature, 80/20 aluminum can support significant loads. For example:
1.5" x 1.5" 15 Series Profiles can typically support hundreds of kilograms when properly braced, more than enough for two people plus storage underneath.
Load Distribution: The modular nature of 80/20 allows for even weight distribution by adding multiple support bars and bracing points. This minimizes the risk of frame sagging under heavy loads.
Cost Comparison
Although 80/20 aluminum tends to be more expensive than traditional wood or basic metal bed frames, the longevity, corrosion resistance, and adjustability make it a long-term investment. Many van builders appreciate the precision and customizability that this material provides, making it worth the initial cost.
If you're interested in building your bed from 80/20 extruded alluminium I highly recommend you check out this very detailed guide from Engineers Who Vanlife.
Maximizing Under-Bed Storage
One of the major benefits of a campervan fixed bed is the opportunity it provides for maximizing under-bed storage. This space is often referred to as the "garage" area of the van and can be an ideal place to store larger items like bikes, camping gear, or extra supplies. Proper organization and smart design choices can help you make the most of this space. Below are some strategies to optimize your under-bed storage.
1. Adjust Bed Height for Maximum Space
The higher the bed, the more storage you will have underneath. However, it's important to strike a balance between bed height and comfort. Most fixed beds are built at a height that provides around 50-60 cm (20-24 inches) of storage space, which is enough to fit storage boxes, bikes, or water tanks.
Tip: Measure the largest item you need to store (like a bike or water tank) and use that as a guide for bed height. Adjustable or raised bed platforms can also be considered if you need flexibility.
2. Use Drawer Slides for Easy Access
Installing sliding drawers or storage boxes on heavy-duty drawer slides is an excellent way to organize and access items under the bed. Drawers can be designed to pull out from the back of the van, allowing easy access to stored items without having to lift the bed.
Tip: Use deep drawers with dividers to segment items and maximize space. You can customize these for specific items, like kitchen supplies, tools, or sports gear.
3. Install Storage Cubes or Bins
Modular storage bins and cubes are a practical and cost-effective way to organize under-bed space. Stackable or labeled bins ensure items are kept neat and can be easily removed when needed. Using transparent or labeled bins allows you to see the contents quickly without having to open each one.
Tip: Invest in clear storage bins or label the bins for quick identification. Choose bins that match the height of the storage area to avoid wasted space.
4. Store Larger and Infrequent Items
Under-bed storage is ideal for larger, less frequently accessed items like camping gear, spare tires, or off-season clothing. By organizing in a way that keeps daily essentials in more accessible areas and larger gear under the bed, you can make the most of your van’s limited space.
Tip: Divide your under-bed storage into sections, with everyday items toward the front and larger, less-used items toward the back.
Campervan mattress
The final part of the puzzle to building a campervan bed is to pick a mattress and cut it to size. Memory foam is the best bet for a campervan mattress. It is comfortable and easy to cut.
You will need to cut your campervan mattress into sections. The number of sections will depend on the type of bed you have chosen to build. Since I have a table bed, I need to cut the campervan mattress into four sections. Two for the bum rest, two as a back rest (when the table is up).
I marked the four sections with a sharpie (measuring very carefully and drawing very straightly). You need to cut the campervan mattress with an electric kitchen knife. Using an electric kitchen knife is the only way to ensure you get a clean, straight cut.
The last step is upholstering the four cushions of the campervan mattress. To be totally frank, I had zero experience in this domain so I went to the local upholster and got him to do it for me. I chose out the fabric and he did an excellent job sowing it up! It cost me about €300 (and two weeks waiting) to get the job done.
If you are more adventurous and own a sewing machine, here is a really great video on how to sew a box cushion yourself!
If you don't fancy cutting your own mattress to size and then upholstering it, you could look at buying a "purpose-built" campervan mattress instead. RoamRest are the best known manufacturer of bespoke campervan mattresses.
RoamRest also sell foldable campervan mattresses in case you have alternative bed systems (like a table bed).
Ventilation Strategies for Mattress Longevity
Proper ventilation is crucial to extending the life of your campervan mattress. Poor airflow under the mattress can trap moisture, leading to mold, mildew, and deterioration of the foam.
Here are key strategies to ensure your mattress stays dry and healthy:
1. Use of Slatted Bed Frames
Slatted bed frames are one of the most effective ways to promote airflow beneath the mattress. The gaps between the slats allow air to circulate freely, reducing the buildup of moisture. It is advisable to space the slats around 3-4 inches apart for optimal support and ventilation.
Type of Support | Airflow Quality | Notes |
Slatted Bed Frame | Excellent | Allows maximum airflow, prevents moisture retention. |
Solid Platform | Poor | Requires additional measures (ventilation mat) to improve airflow. |
2. Ventilation Mats
Installing a ventilation mat under your mattress can significantly improve airflow, especially if you have a solid bed base. These mats create a small gap between the mattress and the platform, allowing air to circulate and moisture to evaporate. Products like Hypervent or Dry-Mesh are designed for marine and RV use, making them ideal for campervans.
3. Raising the Bed Frame
If possible, raising the bed frame off the floor by a few inches can enhance airflow beneath the bed. Even small elevation changes can make a big difference, particularly in humid environments. This setup works best when combined with slatted bases or ventilation mats.
4. Ventilating Your Van
Good overall ventilation of the van contributes to mattress longevity. Use roof vents or side window vents to prevent condensation from building up, especially overnight. For maximum impact, pair van-wide ventilation with under-mattress solutions to maintain a dry sleeping area.
Thermal Blankets and Bed Accessories
For colder nights, thermal blankets, heated mattress pads, and insulated bedding can make a huge difference. In contrast, during warmer months, lightweight blankets and breathable sheets are essential for staying cool.
Electric Blankets or Heating Pads: These provide direct heat without warming the entire space, making them energy-efficient.c
Cooling Pads or Gel-Based Mattresses: Use in hot climates to keep body heat from accumulating.
Conclusion
And that's all she wrote. 7 awesome Campervan Bed ideas!
Don't forget to subscribe to The Van Conversion Newsletter for everything you need to get started with your own van conversion (I'll send you a free wiring diagram when you join).
If you're looking for some guidance with your van conversion, you might be interested in Roaming Home; The Comprehensive Guide for Converting Your Van Into a Campervan. In the 380-page book (or ebook), you'll learn directly from me how to convert a van into your dream home - no prior experience needed!
Until next time,
Shane ✌️