Motorhome Beds: Finding Your Perfect Sleep on Wheels
In this post we're diving into the world of motorhome beds. Determining which one is perfect for you is not just about comfort, it's about finding the ideal match for your travel style and sleeping preferences. Read on to learn about various motorhome bed options, because, let's face it, a good night's sleep and a convenient bed layout can make or break your trip.
The Importance of Layout and Bed Selection
I've always emphasized the significance of layout when it comes to purchasing a motorhome. A well-thought-out layout makes for a more enjoyable and convenient travel experience. And I would be so bold as to say 50% of that layout revolves around the bed. Especially when there are so many bed variations that impact other factors of your motorhome or campervan, such as its external size and how much storage you have.
So, the key is not only finding the best layout for your lifestyle but also discovering the perfect bed that complements that layout. Whether it's a weekend getaway, an extended trip or you're living in your motorhome full-time, cracking the code to the ideal motorhome bed ensures a restful sleep and a harmonious living space.
Exploring Different Motorhome Bed Styles
1. French Bed
A French bed refers to a bed that is fixed against the motorhome walls at the top and on one side. It usually has the exposed corner 'cut off', opening up the gangway.
Pros: Offers a fixed bed layout that also gives you decent size washroom next to it, usually with a separate shower. In some models, this bed can then create a large storage area underneath the bed.
Cons: Extenders can provide the extra width at the base but it will then limit the gangway. For two of you, one will have to climb over the other to get in and out of bed.
2. Twin Singles
Perfect for couples who like a bit of space to sleep or for friends sharing a motorhome, twin singles provide flexibility and a good night's sleep.
Pros: Have your own bed that is easy to access without disturbing your partner. Usually creates a great storage area underneath the bed.
Cons: Not always full length so not ideal for taller people.
3. Over Cab Bed
The over cab bed maximises living space by completely separating the sleeping and living areas by making use of the space above the cab area.
Pros: This keeps the overall length of the motorhome compact for smaller models or for family sized motorhomes, it provides and extra, permanent bed for more berths.
Cons: For two of you, the person sleeping on the far side will have reduced headroom. Also, can be inconvenient getting in and out of bed during the night as you have to climb a ladder.
4. Make-Your-Own Bed
In some motorhomes, usually rear lounge models, you have to make up the bed daily.
Pros: Means your motorhome or Campervan will have a very spacious, open lounge, great for bad weather when you will be inside more. Often it is at the rear of the van meaning you get a panoramic view of your surroundings through the windows. If it's a mid-lounge model, you'll benefit from sizeable sofas to sit and relax on.
Cons: Making the bed up and down every night/morning can become tedious on longer trips and may not be as comfortable as you are sleeping on cushions rather than a mattress. In mid lounge models, making the bed up will impede the living space.
5. Transverse Beds
Sleeping width-ways across the rear of the motorhome, transverse beds free up extra space, providing a more expansive lounge or kitchen area.
Pros: Enables you to have a full size, permanent fixed bed without compromising on the lounge or kitchen area up front. Also creates a large garage space underneath for storage.
Cons: For two people, it means one person will always have to climb over the other to get in and out of bed.
6. Drop Down Beds
Similar to over cab beds, these beds are a great space-saving option. Usually a dropdown bed refers to one that sits up above the living area during the day and is lowered, either electronically or manually, down at night for sleeping on. There are some 'overcab' drop down bed options available too.
Pros: Quickly converting your living space (or cab) into a comfortable sleeping area with a ready made bed that simply drops down over your lounge (or cab).
Cons: Once in the down position, the bed may block access to the habitation doors on shorter motorhomes so if you needed to exit the motorhome quickly, you wouldn't be able to. The same for overcab versions, it usually requires a some moving of furniture by lowering the captain seats.
7. Island Bed
Perfect for those wanting access on both sides, island beds provide that 'at home' feel with only the head of the bed being fixed to the wall.
Pros: Ample walking space around the bed.
Pros: Be mindful of ones that need an extension cushion to make them full length for sleeping. This could impact the walk around space once fully extended.
8. High-Step Beds
For those seeking both storage and flexibility, high-step beds can be converted into a massive bed or used as two singles.
Pros: The elevated design offers a spacious garage underneath for additional storage. It also means you don't have to disturb a partner when getting in and out of bed if used as two singles.
Cons: Can compromise the living space up front on shorter models as you will likely have a smaller kitchen or bathroom.
Flexibility and Comfort – The Key to Choosing Your Bed
The diversity of motorhome beds is great, offering options to suit various preferences and needs. Whether you prioritise storage, comfort, or a combination of both, there's a motorhome bed out there for you.
Before making your decision, ensure you experience the beds firsthand. Seeing them on a screen doesn't convey the full 'feel factor'. Head down to a reputable dealership like Oaktree Motorhomes and explore the variety of motorhome beds available. Your motorhome adventure begins with the right bed!
All images acquired from filming at Oaktree Motorhomes, unless otherwise stated.