What is the difference between an RV mattress and a regular mattress?
When you are on the road, comfort is of utmost importance. Take note that there is a vast difference between regular and RV mattresses.
For one thing, RV mattresses have lighter construction. It is an excellent advantage for your rig. It will not add more stress to your axles, tires, and engine.
Aside from that, RV mattresses also have a shorter design. At times, they are also made leaner as compared to regular ones. This one is for space optimization.
Furthermore, they are also more flexible so that they can adapt or bend to cramped spaces.
5 Reason Why A Regular Mattress Are Not Good For RVs
Regular mattresses are not often suitable for RV beds.
Below are the reasons why this is the case.
Reason #1. Durability
If you already have spent time in recreational vehicles, you must know how weather conditions affect your adventure.
RVs tend to get very cold in winter and extremely hot in summer. These fluctuations in weather can significantly affect your mattress.
It will have to endure wear and tear, resulting in quicker disintegration in just a few years.
With that being said, it is vital to opt for a durable mattress. Luckily, foam technologies are integrated into RV mattresses.
Unlike regular mattresses, the materials used for RV mattresses are specifically chosen for their ability to thrive in extreme conditions.
As such, if you buy a regular mattress for your RV, chances are, you will not get the best possible value for the amount you spent.
Reason #2. Size
Shopping for your regular bed is relatively easier since the sizes of beds are universal. You can walk to any mattress store and start the search.
After you find the model you like, you can easily choose the size to fit your box spring. As simple as that!
But choosing a mattress for your motorhome can be a completely different story.
Since the space in an RV is only limited, most manufacturers reduce its dimensions, particularly its length.
Meaning you will have to encounter issues as you fit it into the bed if you order a regular mattress for your recreational vehicle.
Reason #3. Weight
The most common reason people decide to live in RVs or trailers is to bring them to different destinations.
As much as possible, manufacturers are finding means to minimize their overall weight because any additional pound would matter as you drive.
A lightweight mattress can promote fuel efficiency as well as faster speed during the ride.
Some solo travelers remove the mattress for more convenience.
Sad to say, a regular mattress can have a weight of up to 180 lbs. which is a significant fraction of the RVs overall weight rating.
When going on a trail, several things are needed for comfort, so it is essential to skimp out on the mattress weight.
That is the reason why regular mattresses are not a good option.
Reason #4. Shape
The shape of RV beds is quite different from regular ones.
That is why it might not be a good idea to get a traditional mattress for your motorhome.
Most RV beds have one corner, and its other side is cut to fit in the space resulting in a dimension.
In other words, you will need to trim certain corners of a regular mattress for it to fit in the RV bed.
Doing so can distort the mattress and will rob the warranty offered by its manufacturer.
Reason #5. Thickness
In general, people usually sleep on mattresses that are about eight or ten inches at homes.
That is because its box springs or other foundation types can accommodate the thickest mattress there is.
However, when we talk about RV beds, it might be the opposite of this.
Motorhomes can only accommodate up to six-inch thick mattresses.
Again, this is due to the space and weight constraints of RVs.
You can easily find four or six-inch models for beds that are smaller in size, just like Twin XL or Twin.
But for Queen, Full, or King mattresses, it might be impossible since their thickness usually starts from eight inches.
What Makes A Good Mattress?
In buying an RV mattress, you will need to consider the following:
Budget
Although RV mattresses are cheaper than regular ones, you still need to decide on the amount you are willing to spend when buying an RV mattress.
Size
It is a must to measure the length and the width of the designated area for resting in your RV before buying a mattress.
RV type
Larger trailers can hold short queen-sized mattresses, but small trailers can only accommodate mattress toppers.
Firmness
Choosing a memory foam mattress for your RV is a good idea since it features longevity, back support, and comfort.
No matter what mattress you are using, it is essential to clean them. Read this article to find out how.
Nevertheless, you’ve already known what is the difference between an RV mattress and a regular mattress.
It’s A Wrap!
Most often than not, a regular mattress is not compatible with the bed of an RV due to the variances in weight, size, and shape requirements.
As such, the best alternative to transform your sleep is to enhance the current one or shell out on a deluxe RV mattress.
Thank you for reading this article, “What is the difference between an RV mattress and a regular mattress?”