One of the most important aspects of living in a campervan is having a comfortable and practical sleeping solution. It is one of the most important tasks during your van conversion. After all, you want to wake up feeling refreshed and ready for another day of adventure, not sore and cranky from a bad night’s sleep. But how do you choose the best sleeping solution for your campervan? There are many factors to consider, such as space, budget, comfort, convenience, and personal preference. In this article, we will explore the main types of sleeping solutions available for campervans, such as fixed platform beds, convertible beds, futons, air mattresses, camping pads, and pre-cut mattresses.
We will also discuss the pros and cons of each option, provide some examples of different designs and layouts, and give you some tips on how to make your campervan sleeping solution more comfortable and cozy.
Fixed Platform Beds
A fixed platform bed is a permanent bed that is built into your campervan. It usually consists of a wooden or metal frame that supports a mattress on top. The space underneath the bed can be used for storage or other purposes. A fixed platform bed is always ready to sleep in, so you don’t have to worry about setting it up or taking it down every day. It also provides a large storage space underneath, where you can store your belongings or install drawers, cabinets, or other features. A fixed platform bed is suitable for wide vans that have enough room to fit a bed lengthwise or crosswise.
However, a fixed platform bed also has some drawbacks. It takes up a lot of space in your campervan, which limits your seating and overhead storage options. You may also have to sacrifice some headroom or window access depending on where you place your bed. A fixed platform bed may not fit lengthwise in narrow vans, so you may have to sleep diagonally or curl up. Additionally, a fixed platform bed may not be very comfortable if you have a low-quality mattress or if you don’t like sleeping on a hard surface.
Some examples of fixed platform bed designs and layouts are:
- A simple wooden frame with a mattress on top and storage boxes underneath
- A metal frame with a mattress on top and drawers underneath
- A raised platform with a mattress on top and a seating area underneath
Convertible Beds
A convertible bed is a bed that can be transformed into another piece of furniture or feature in your campervan. It usually involves some mechanism that allows you to fold, flip, slide, or lower your bed when you are not using it. A convertible bed saves space in your campervan, as it allows you to use the same area for multiple purposes. You can also have more seating and storage options with a convertible bed, as you can use the same furniture or feature for different functions. A convertible bed is versatile and adaptable, as you can change it according to your needs and preferences.
However, a convertible bed also has some drawbacks. It requires assembly and disassembly every night and morning, which can be time-consuming and tedious. You may also have to move or rearrange your belongings or other features in your campervan to make room for your bed. A convertible bed may compromise comfort and stability, as it may not be as sturdy or supportive as a fixed platform bed. A convertible bed may not be suitable for heavy or tall people, as it may not be able to support their weight or fit their size.
Some examples of convertible bed designs and layouts are:
- A table that lowers down to form a bed base
- A bench that flips over to form a bed base
- A platform that slides out to form a bed base
- A bunk bed that folds down from the ceiling or wall
- A murphy bed that folds up into the wall or cabinet
- A drawbridge-style bed that lowers down from the ceiling or wall with ropes or chains
- A couch that converts into a bed
- A slider bed that slides out from under another bed or platform
- A custom shaped bed that fits into a specific shape or space in the van
Futons
A futon is a traditional Japanese-style mattress that can be folded or rolled up when not in use. It usually consists of a cotton-filled quilted pad that lies on top of a tatami mat or a wooden slatted frame. A futon is affordable, easy to move and store, and comfortable and cozy. You can use it as a mattress on the floor or on a platform, or as a couch or a chair. You can also choose from different sizes, colors, and patterns to suit your style and preference.
However, a futon also has some drawbacks. It is bulky and heavy, which makes it difficult to fit and carry in your campervan. It may not fit well in the van, as it may be too long, wide, or thick for your space. It may not provide enough insulation or support for your back, neck, or joints, especially if you sleep on a hard surface or in cold weather. You may also have to air out your futon regularly to prevent mold and dust mites from accumulating.
Some examples of futon designs and layouts are:
- A futon on the floor with a storage box underneath
- A futon on a platform with drawers underneath
- A futon on a couch with cushions and pillows
Air Mattresses
An air mattress is an inflatable mattress that can be filled with air using a pump or a valve. It usually consists of a vinyl or rubber material that is sealed and reinforced with internal chambers or coils. An air mattress is lightweight, compact, and easy to inflate and deflate. You can store it in a small space when not in use, and you can adjust its firmness by adding or releasing air. You can also use it as a mattress on the floor or on a platform, or as a couch or a chair.
However, an air mattress also has some drawbacks. It is prone to punctures and leaks, which can cause it to deflate overnight or lose its shape. It is noisy, as it makes squeaking sounds when you move on it or when you inflate or deflate it. It may not provide enough insulation or comfort for your body, especially if you sleep on a cold surface or in hot weather. You may also need an electric pump or a battery to inflate or deflate your air mattress, which can be inconvenient or costly.
Some examples of air mattress designs and layouts are:
- An air mattress on the floor with a blanket and a pillow
- An air mattress on a platform with a sheet and a comforter
- An air mattress on a couch with a throw and a cushion
Camping Pads
A camping pad is a thin mat that can be used as a cushion or an insulation layer for sleeping. It usually consists of a foam, rubber, or synthetic material that is rolled up or folded when not in use. A camping pad is durable, portable, and easy to roll up and store. It provides insulation and cushioning for your body, especially if you sleep on a hard or cold surface. You can use it as a mattress on the floor or on a platform, or as an extra layer on top of another mattress.
However, a camping pad also has some drawbacks. It is thin and narrow, which may not cover the entire van floor or mattress base. It may not provide enough comfort or support for your back, neck, or joints, especially if you sleep on an uneven surface or in warm weather. You may also have to secure your camping pad to prevent it from sliding off your bed or platform.
Some examples of camping pad designs and layouts are:
- A camping pad on the floor with a sleeping bag and a pillow
- A camping pad on a platform with a quilt and a bolster
- A camping pad on top of another mattress with a duvet and a sham
Pre-Cut Mattresses
A pre-cut mattress is a custom-made mattress that fits your van dimensions and shape. It usually consists of a foam, latex, memory foam, gel, or hybrid material that is cut to fit your specific space and needs. A pre-cut mattress is comfortable and supportive, as it conforms to your body shape and weight distribution. It is easy to install and remove, as it comes with zippers, velcro, snaps, or ties that attach to your bed base or platform. You can also choose from different sizes, thickness, firmness, covers, and colors to suit your style and preference.
However, a pre-cut mattress also has some drawbacks. It is expensive, as it requires custom ordering and delivery. It may take time to order and deliver your pre-cut mattress, depending on the availability and location of the manufacturer. It may not be available for all van models or sizes, as some vans may have irregular shapes or curves that are difficult to measure or cut.
Some examples of pre-cut mattress designs and layouts are:
- A pre-cut mattress that fits the contour of the van wall
- A pre-cut mattress that fits the shape of the van door
- A pre-cut mattress that fits the angle of the van roof
Conclusion
Choosing the best sleeping solution for your campervan is not an easy task. It’s a big decision that can make or break your van life experience. You want to sleep like a baby, not like a sardine in a can. You want to wake up feeling refreshed and ready for another day of adventure, not sore and cranky from a bad night’s sleep.
In this article, we have explored the main types of beds available for van lifers, and we have given you the lowdown on the pros and cons of each option. We have also shown you some examples of different designs and layouts, so you can get some inspiration and ideas for your own sleeping solution.
In the end, the best option depends on your individual needs and preferences. You may want to try out different ones before you make a final decision, or you may want to combine different elements to create your own unique bed. The most important thing is to find something that fits your lifestyle and your van, and that makes you happy and comfortable.
We hope that this article has given you some useful information and inspiration for choosing the best sleeping solution for your campervan. Remember that your van is a van lifers home on wheels, and your bed is a key part of making it feel like home. So don’t settle for anything less than what you deserve.