Written by Dan Caffrey, Performance Editor
Finding the best RV mattress can allow you to go on a cross-country adventure without sacrificing comfort. Many bed-in-a-box brands have begun creating mattresses specifically for this purpose, and some of them have already-existing products that will fit easily into a motorhome. We’ll go over all of these different types of best RV mattresses and more in the following roundup. So put the keys in the ignition and let’s get rolling!
Our Verdict: What’s the Best RV Mattress?
Our expert reviewers chose the Dreamfoam Essential as the best RV mattress for its cooling and contouring features as well as its variety of sizes and heights to fit your space.
Best RV Mattress: Our Top Picks
- Dreamfoam Essential – Best Overall
- Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe – Best Hybrid RV Mattress
- DreamCloud – Best RV Mattress for Back Sleepers
- Helix Midnight – Best RV Mattress for Couples
- Nolah Original Hybrid – Best RV Mattress for Side Sleepers
- Plank Firm – Best RV Mattress for Heavy People
- Dreamfoam Hybrid – Best for Lightweight Sleepers
- Bear – Best Cheap RV Mattress
Compare the Best RV Mattresses
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| Dreamfoam Essential RV Mattress | Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe RV Mattress | DreamCloud Original Mattress | Helix Midnight Mattress RV | Nolah Original Hybrid | Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress | Dreamfoam Hybrid Mattress | Bear Original Mattress | |
| Rating | ||||||||
| Firmness | Medium-firm: 7/10 | Multiple firmness options | Firm: 7.5/10 | Medium-firm: 7/10 | Soft: 6/10 | Firm: 8/10 | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 |
| Material | Foam | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Foam | Hybrid | Foam |
| Cooling | -- | ✓ | ✓ | -- | ✓ | -- | -- | ✓ |
| Sleep Position | Back & Side | Back & Side | Back | Back & Side | Back | Back & Stomach | Back | Back & Side |
How We Chose Our Top Picks
Our team of sleep specialists has reviewed more than 600 mattresses, using proprietary analysis and hands-on testing to establish easy-to-understand scores. In addition to an overall score, we measure subscores for support, edge support, cooling, motion transfer, durability, trial period, and warranty.
For this roundup, we focused on mattresses that either come in specific RV sizes or offer smaller sizes that will fit an RV. In addition, we chose mattresses that are not extremely thick, as thick mattresses will not work well in an RV.
Best Overall – Dreamfoam Essential
Dreamfoam Essential RV Mattress
Material
Foam
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Dreamfoam Essential RV Mattress
The Dreamfoam Essential is a cooling, affordable memory foam mattress that comes in multiple thicknesses.
Material
Foam
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Dreamfoam Essential RV Mattress
The Dreamfoam Essential is a cooling, affordable memory foam mattress that comes in multiple thicknesses.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Our Expert’s Take
The all-foam Dreamfoam Essential has been so successful in the bedroom that Brooklyn Bedding is now taking it on the road. Sleepers can expect all of the mattress’ cooling and contouring features, but in a wider variety of sizes specifically designed for RVs. Short Queen, RV King, RV Bunk — the list goes on and on and on.
What the testers say: “Reviewing the Dreamfoam Essential, I loved how it came in different thicknesses and sizes to give me options. I reviewed the 12″ model, and it had a very good balance of comfort and support for back sleeping.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Love About the Dreamfoam Essential
- In addition to being available in RV sizes, the Dreamfoam Essential comes in five height options. Each model has a slightly different construction, so they have slightly different feels and firmnesses.
- The Dreamfoam Essential is made with a layer of gel-infused memory foam to help regulate temperature. This layer also gives the mattress a slow-moving foam feel.
- The 12” model of the Dreamfoam Essential feels slightly firmer than average and is most comfortable for back sleeping.
What to Keep in Mind About the Dreamfoam Essential
- We noticed that the Dreamfoam Essential collapsed a bit when we sat or lied on the edge.
- The Dreamfoam Essential is a value mattress, so it’s not made with long-lasting materials and will probably only last five to seven years.
Other User Reviews
On the Brooklyn Bedding website, the Dreamfoam Essential has earned a 4.7/5 star rating from 4,135 customer reviews. Many customers found this mattress to be a great value for an RV. A few negative reviews found the Dreamfoam Essential too firm for their comfort preferences.
Read our full Dreamfoam Essential mattress review to learn more. If you aren’t interested in the Dreamfoam Essential mattress, check out our list of the Best Mattresses of 2024 for more great options.
Best Hybrid RV Mattress – Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe
Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe RV Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe RV Mattress
The Aurora Luxe mattress from Brooklyn Bedding is a high-quality hybrid mattress that has cooling and pressure relieving components. The high-quality materials and thoughtful construction makes it a good value.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe RV Mattress
The Aurora Luxe mattress from Brooklyn Bedding is a high-quality hybrid mattress that has cooling and pressure relieving components. The high-quality materials and thoughtful construction makes it a good value.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Our Expert’s Take
Brooklyn Bedding has become a major player in the mattress industry, with the Aurora Luxe being their most popular model. And it’s now available in several RV sizes, including Short Queen, RV King, and RV Bunk. Structurally, it’s a hybrid mattress with supportive coils at the bottom and patented CopperFlex foam up top. This layer creates a responsive kind of contouring, allowing you to move around easily while still getting some pressure relief. This makes the mattress a good fit for back sleepers who need a slight lift and combination sleepers who need to switch positions at night.
What the testers say: “The Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe is easily one of my favorite hybrid mattresses. When I tried the mattress for myself, I experienced fantastic cooling and comfort.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Love About the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe
- The Aurora Luxe is built with 8” innerspring coils with zoned lumbar support. This feature helps keep sleeper’s spines in neutral alignment.
- Its comfort layers feature different cooling infusions including copper and phase change material. The Aurora Luxe regulates temperature well and does a great job of keeping you cool.
- All three models of the Aurora Luxe provide sleepers with great body contouring and pressure relief. You can also add a Cloud Pillow Top for additional pressure relief and a luxurious feel.
What to Keep in Mind About the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe
- The Aurora Luxe’s edges collapse quite a bit when you sat and lie down near its perimeter.
- Lightweight sleepers should find enough support under their hips while stomach sleeping on the Medium model. But if you weigh over 130 lb, you should check out the Firm model for stomach sleeping.
Other User Reviews
On the Brooklyn Bedding website, the Aurora Luxe has a 4.7/5 star rating based on 3,504 reviews. Reviewers were impressed with the bed’s cooling features and its balance of comfort and support. Some customers who purchased the Medium model found it to be too soft and not supportive enough. This can be subjective depending on your sleep position and body type.
Read our full Aurora Luxe mattress review to learn more. If you aren’t interested in the Aurora Luxe mattress, check out our list of the Best Hybrid Mattresses for more great options.
Best RV Mattress For Back Sleepers – DreamCloud
DreamCloud Original Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
DreamCloud Original Mattress
The DreamCloud is a high-quality hybrid mattress that is sold for a value price.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
DreamCloud Original Mattress
The DreamCloud is a high-quality hybrid mattress that is sold for a value price.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Our Expert’s Take
The DreamCloud is a luxury hybrid that feels similar to a mattress you’d sleep on in a high-end hotel. And because it’s available in Twin and Twin XL sizes, you can bring its luxury to the wilderness and the wide-open highway. Overall, we think it’s a perfect match for traveling back sleepers, who should feel lifted up by the mattress’ support layer of individually wrapped coils. But they’ll also get some contouring and pressure relief up top from a comfort layer of soft memory foam.
What the testers say: “While the DreamCloud is a firmer mattress, it is still an excellent choice for back sleeping. When I lay on my back, I felt my hips sink down into the pillow top while the coils supported my body.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Love About the DreamCloud
- This mattress offers ample lumbar support to back sleepers who are fans of a firmer mattress.
- The DreamCloud’s hybrid construction and cooling materials make it a great mattress for hot sleepers. It features two layers of gel memory foam and a breathable cashmere cover.
- It is made with high-quality and eco-friendly materials and sold for a value price.
What to Keep in Mind About the DreamCloud
- The DreamCloud mattress has a bouncy, innerspring feel. If you sleep with a partner, you might feel their motion transfer on your side of the mattress.
- It is much firmer than the average medium-firm mattress. Side sleepers won’t find enough pressure relief from the DreamCloud.
Other User Reviews
The DreamCloud Hybrid mattress has a 4.6/5 star rating from 8,745 customer ratings left on the DreamCloud website. Customers described the DreamCloud as sturdy, cooling, and a great value. Reviews across the board mentioned the DreamCloud’s sagging edges that lacked proper support.
Read our full DreamCloud mattress review to learn more. If you aren’t interested in the DreamCloud mattress, check out our list of the Best Mattresses for Back Sleepers for more great options.
Best RV Mattress For Couples – Helix Midnight
Helix Midnight Mattress RV
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Helix Midnight Mattress RV
The Helix Midnight is the brand's most popular model. It has a balance of comfort and support and should be an excellent match for back sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Helix Midnight Mattress RV
The Helix Midnight is the brand's most popular model. It has a balance of comfort and support and should be an excellent match for back sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Our Expert’s Take
If you’re a road-tripping couple, you’ll want to make sure your RV has a bed that’s able to isolate motion well and keep you from disturbing one another. We think the medium-firm Helix Midnight more than fits the bill. It’s a hybrid mattress, meaning it has a construction of several different materials. A layer of individually wrapped coils at the bottom of the bed creates plenty of support, while a comfort layer of Memory Plus foam up top works to contour the body and minimize movement. This allows lovebirds to move around without waking each other up.
What the testers say: “I tested the Helix Midnight to see how well it isolated motion to each side of the mattress. I saw very little disturbances during my tests. This lets me know that it should be a good choice for couples.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Love About the Helix Midnight
- The Helix Midnight isolates motion very well for a hybrid mattress. But it still has an overall balanced hybrid feel that makes it easy to move around on for sex.
- This mattress feels like a 7/10 on our firmness scale, which is slightly firmer than medium-firm. Its balanced foam feel is ideal for most back and combination sleepers.
- Its hybrid construction allows for ample airflow through its wrapped coil layer. Hot sleepers can also upgrade the Helix Midnight’s Breathe Knit cover to a GlacioTex cooling cover.
What to Keep in Mind About the Helix Midnight
- You might notice some slight creaking noises from its innerspring coils when moving around on the Helix Midnight. This is something to keep in mind if you are a light sleeper.
- Sleepers who weigh over 300 lb won’t find enough support from the Helix Midnight. These people should consider getting one of the best mattresses for heavy people.
Other User Reviews
The Helix Midnight has a 4.5/5 star rating based on 6,718 customer reviews on the Helix website. Most users thought the Helix Midnight offered a perfect balance of comfort and support while back or side sleeping. A few users found the Helix Midnight was too soft, which led to some people experiencing neck or back pain over time.
Read our full Helix Midnight mattress review to learn more. If you aren’t interested in the Helix Midnight mattress, check out our list of the Best Mattresses for Couples for more great options.
Best RV Mattress for Side Sleepers – Nolah Original Hybrid
Nolah Original Hybrid
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Nolah Original Hybrid
The Nolah Original Hybrid is a versatile mattress that offers a good balance of cushioning and bounce. It likely isn't supportive enough for most heavyweight sleepers, though.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Nolah Original Hybrid
The Nolah Original Hybrid is a versatile mattress that offers a good balance of cushioning and bounce. It likely isn't supportive enough for most heavyweight sleepers, though.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Our Expert’s Take
Even if they’re in an RV that’s barreling down the highway (especially if they’re in an RV that’s barreling down the highway), side sleepers tend to need a mattress that offers a lot of pressure relief. Luckily, the Nolah Original Hybrid is available in twin, twin XL, short queen, and short king — sizes that will fit in many varieties of motorhomes. While the bed is a medium-firm hybrid bed (meaning the support layer is a grid of pocketed springy coils), its comfort layer is made of a proprietary foam called “AirFoam,” which is highly responsible while also cradling the hips and shoulders, the parts of the body where side sleepers put the most pressure.
You’ll also keep your cool on the road since the bed’s soft cover is made from eco-friendly Tencel, derived from eucalyptus fiber. Plus, Nolah is thoughtfully designed to be firmer where your lower back needs support and softer where your shoulders and hips rest.
What the testers say: “Both Nolah Original mattresses, the all-foam model and the hybrid, are excellent for side sleepers. You get excellent pressure relief on the shoulders and hips thanks to the use of AirFoam. I especially recommend the Hybrid for heavier folks like me — I weigh 270 lbs — since you get the added support of the coils.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Love About the Nolah Original Hybrid
- Heavy and average-weight side sleepers should feel excellent body contouring and pressure point relief around their shoulders and hips.
- Nolah has a Tencel cover and breathable coils, so it’s a great bed for hot sleepers compared to most all-foam beds, which are more prone to overheating.
- Despite having a hybrid build, the Nolah Original Hybrid maintains a relatively low loft of 11”, so that you can fit the bed in most RVs. Compare that for example to the Nolah Evolution, a more luxury bed that stands at a 15” height.
- Nolah mattresses come with a 120-night sleep trial and a forever warranty that covers workmanship defects.
What to Keep in Mind About the Nolah Original Hybrid
- Lightweight sleepers might not feel “in” the mattress enough and lack pressure relief, because the coils and AirFoam add a great deal of bounce.
- If you sleep on both your side and stomach, you may need a bed with more support. We’d suggest the firm model of the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe, our pick for stomach sleepers.
Other User Reviews
Unfortunately, the brand’s website does not reveal customer feedback for the Nolah Original Hybrid—that may be because the bed is one of Nolah’s newest offerings. We’ll post an update if and when the bed elicits some user feedback.
Read our full Nolah Original Hybrid mattress review to learn more. If you aren’t interested in the Nectar mattress, check out our list of the Best Mattresses for Side Sleepers for more great options.
Best RV Mattress For Heavy People – Plank Firm
Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress
Material
Foam
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Firm: 8/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress
The Plank Firm is a very firm mattress that is a great match for stomach sleepers and those who need extra support.
Material
Foam
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Firm: 8/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress
The Plank Firm is a very firm mattress that is a great match for stomach sleepers and those who need extra support.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Firm: 8/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Our Expert’s Take
Heavy people over 230 lb tend to need a firm and supportive mattress so they can stay elevated and keep their spines in a neutral alignment. This is even more important on the road, where they may be contending with a smaller space and the motion of a vehicle. We think the all-foam Plank Firm might be the answer for these folks, as it was designed by Brooklyn Bedding to be an exceptionally firm and stable mattress.
What the testers say: “As a heavier person, I usually require a firmer, more supportive mattress. The Plank Firm is definitely one of the firmest mattresses I have ever reviewed and kept me supported while back and stomach sleeping.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Love About the Plank Firm
- The Plank Firm mattress is flippable with two firmness options. The Firm side feels like an 8/10 on our firmness scale and the Extra-firm side feels like a 9/10.
- Hot sleepers can choose to upgrade the Plank Firm to include a GlacioTex cooling cover for an additional price.
- Besides heavyweight back sleepers, the Plank Firm is a great fit for stomach sleepers.
What to Keep in Mind About the Plank Firm
- Both sides of the Plank Firm mattress are way too firm for side sleepers. This bed offers little to no pressure relief around the shoulders and hips.
- Its high-density foam support layer gives the Plank Firm a slightly bouncy foam feel. The Plank Firm doesn’t do a great job of absorbing motion transfer.
Other User Reviews
On the Brooklyn Bedding website, the Plank Firm mattress has an impressive 4.8/5 star rating from 3,110 customer reviews. Fans of an extra firm mattress love the Plank Firm bed and many reviewers said the mattress helped relieve their back pain. Some negative reviews mention the Plank Firm feeling uncomfortable because of its firmness.
Read our full Plank Firm mattress review to learn more. If you aren’t interested in the Plank mattress, check out our list of the Best Mattresses for Heavy People for more great options.
Best for Lightweight Sleepers – Dreamfoam Hybrid
Dreamfoam Hybrid Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Dreamfoam Hybrid Mattress
The Dreamfoam Hybrid is a comfortable, cooling, and affordable mattress.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Dreamfoam Hybrid Mattress
The Dreamfoam Hybrid is a comfortable, cooling, and affordable mattress.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Our Expert’s Take
The Dreamfoam Hybrid mattress has a cozy cover with a cooling, gel-infused foam that molds to your body, helping you on those sweaty nights sans AC in your camper. Supporting you is a layer of coils atop a solid foam base, keeping everything supported and ventilated. And at 10” tall, the low profile of the bed can slip into many sleep situations. And if you’re a lightweight sleeper who tends to float off into dreamland in all sorts of positions, this mattress has your back — literally. Lightweight (<140 lbs) back, side and stomach sleepers can all get proper spinal alignment on this bed, testers said. And like our top pick, the Dreamfoam Essential, the Dreamfoam Hybrid comes in an unusually robust array of sizes adapted to RVs.
What the testers say: “The Dreamfoam Hybrid is a bang-for-your-buck hybrid with a balanced feel. I can’t say I’d recommend the bed for heavier sleepers, however, lightweight and average sleepers should sink in just enough.” – Elisa, Reviewer
What We Love About the Dreamfoam Hybrid
- The Dreamfoam Hybrid offers a great balance of comfort and support for back sleepers. Side sleepers of average weight can also find enough support and pressure relief on this mattress.
- The bed has a highly cooling feel, thanks to gel-infused foam and breathable coils that circulate hot air away from sleepers who tend to overheat at night.
- All Dreamfoam beds are made in the USA in a factory owned by the brand (Brooklyn Bedding), allowing savings to be passed on to the customers.
What to Keep in Mind About the Dreamfoam Hybrid
- Despite the coil layer, the mattress is not designed for heavyweight sleepers. These sleepers should opt for a more durable mattress with a double-coil build, like the Saatva.
- Couples be wary: We felt the edge collapse a decent amount when we sat or lied down near the perimeter, and the bed lacks solid motion isolation. A memory foam bed like the Bear will be a better match for couples who need minimal disruption across the sleep surface.
Other User Reviews
On the Dreamfoam website, the bed has a 4.7 out of 5-star rating from over 2,000 customer reviews. Many RV owners praised the mattress as an upgrade from their old, and loved the affordable price ($599 when we last checked for a queen). Some RV mattress buyers found the bed to be too soft.
Read our full Dreamfoam Hybrid mattress review to learn more. If you aren’t interested in the PlushBeds MobilePlush mattress, check out our list of the Best Mattresses for Lightweight People for more great options.
Best Cheap RV Mattress – Bear
Bear Original Mattress
Material
Foam
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Bear Original Mattress
The Bear Original mattress sleeps cool and is quite comfortable. It's a particularly good option for athletes.
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Bear Original Mattress
The Bear Original mattress sleeps cool and is quite comfortable. It's a particularly good option for athletes.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Our Expert’s Take
Bear has made a name for itself in the mattress industry for its beds that cater to athletes. While traveling and camping aren’t exactly sports, they’re still part of an active lifestyle, so it only makes sense that the Bear Original, a bed made with materials that help with muscle recovery would make our list of the best RV mattresses. The Bear comes with a breathable Tencel cover, gel-infused foam, and an optional Celliant cover that helps with recovery. Best of all, even before discounts, a Queen is just under $1,000, making the Bear one of the best-value RV mattresses out there.
What the testers say: “The Bear mattress offers a great balance of comfort and support, which is great news for back sleepers, and when I rested on my side, I felt great pressure relief along my hips and shoulders.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Love About the Bear
- The Bear Original’s optional Celliant cover is designed to regulate body temperature and promote muscle recovery and blood circulation.
- Its top layer of memory foam is pressure-relieving and does an excellent job at reducing motion transfer. It’s also infused with cooling gel to draw heat away from your body.
- The Bear mattress is made entirely from CertiPUR-US certified foams and is GREENGUARD Gold certified, meeting strict standards for low emissions.
What to Keep in Mind About the Bear
- The Bear Original is easy to move around on, but does not have a traditional innerspring feel. Fans of a bouncy mattress should consider looking for an innerspring or hybrid bed.
- Unless you are a lightweight sleeper, you won’t find enough support under your hips while stomach sleeping.
Other User Reviews
On Bear’s website, the Bear Original mattress has a 4.7/5 star rating from over 10,000 user reviews. Several positive reviews mention that the Bear Original’s great value exceeded their expectations. Some customers wish the Bear mattress was softer and offered more pressure point relief.
Check out our Bear mattress review. If you aren’t interested in the Bear mattress, check out our list of the Best Cheap Mattresses for more great options.
What Exactly Is an RV Mattress?
To put it bluntly, an RV mattress is any mattress that can fit inside an RV. This can be an already-existing mattress that’s available in RV-compatible sizes (more on that in a bit) or a mattress that was created specifically with RVs in mind.
What Size Is an RV Mattress?
Of the traditional mattress sizes, both Twin and Twin XL should fit into most RV bed frames. So any mattress that’s available in those sizes might be a good fit for your motorized home.
But there are many additional mattress sizes out there created specifically for the unique dimensions of an RV bed frame, including Short Queen, RV Bunk, and RV King. Here’s a rundown of all of them:
| Size | Measurements |
| Twin | 38″ x 75″ |
| Twin XL | 38″ x 80″ |
| RV Bunk | 28” x 75”
30” x 75” 30” x 80” 34” x 75” 35” x 79” |
| RV Full | 53” x 75”
54” x 75” 55” x 75 |
| Three-Quarter | 48” x 75”
48” x 80” |
| RV Short Queen | 60” x 74”
60” x 75” |
| RV Queen | 60″ x 80″ |
| RV Short King | 72″ x 75″ |
| RV King | 72″ x 80″ |
| Eastern King | 76″ x 80″ |
| RV California King | 72″ x 84″ |
It’s important to note that not every mattress (including some of the ones on this list) are going to be available in all of these sizes. Before you make a purchase, learn what size bed frame is already in your RV. If you’re not sure, take its measurements so you can decide which sizes will fit.
Differences Between RV Mattresses and Traditional Mattresses
This section is a bit of a misnomer since many traditional mattresses are RV mattresses. But if we’re talking about mattresses specifically designed for RVs versus mattresses that will fit in an RV (again, anything that comes in Twin and Twin XL sizes), there are a few key differences:
- Size: We’ve already mentioned how any RV mattress is going to come in a variety of RV-specific sizes. That being said, many traditional mattresses are now being manufactured in RV sizes.
- Thickness: Because of the limited amount of space, RV mattresses tend to be a little thinner/shorter than traditional mattresses. Most RV mattresses are going to be between 4” and 8” thick, although if you’re putting a traditional mattress inside an RV, it will likely be thicker.
- Price: While there are of course exceptions, RV mattresses are generally going to be cheaper than traditional mattresses because there are less materials involved in the production.
Types of RV Mattresses
Whether you’re putting a traditional mattress in your RV or purchasing an RV-specific mattress, they come in many different styles and constructions. Here are some of the most common types of beds and who they might be good for.
RV Innerspring Mattresses
The term “innerspring mattress” is interesting since it’s rare to find a true innerspring mattress these days. Most beds that contain a foundation of springs still have a decent bit of foam up top. But there are a good number of beds with an innerspring feel, such as the Saatva and the WinkBed. These mattresses are usually firm, springy, and supportive, and tend to be a good match for back sleepers, stomach sleepers, and combination sleepers. They’re also a good fit for heavy sleepers over 230 lb who need more support.
RV Foam Mattresses
Many mattresses are made entirely of foam. Memory foam is an especially popular material, and usually appeals to side sleepers because of its slow-sinking feeling that relieves pressure on the shoulders and hips. Then again, it’s also possible for an all-foam bed to be firm and supportive, which tends to be a better fit for back sleepers.
RV Hybrid Mattresses
A kind of middle ground between innerspring and foam mattresses, hybrid mattresses are made from a combination of different materials. The most common blend is a layer of pocketed coils on the bottom of the mattress for support and some kind of foam up top for pressure relief and contouring, with maybe some denser transitional foam in the middle. Hybrid mattresses tend to have a good blend of comfort and support, making them natural choices for side sleepers and back sleepers. Because of their versatility, there are also a decent number of models that are good for combination sleepers and stomach sleepers, too.
RV Latex Mattresses
Latex foam is an environmentally friendly alternative that’s bouncier and more responsive than memory foam. These mattresses can derive their foam from either Talalay or Dunlop latex, and tend to be a good fit for combination sleepers, who need a responsive bed so they can easily switch positions at night. And because latex is naturally cooling, a latex mattress is also a good fit for hot sleepers.
RV Air Mattresses
Although we didn’t include any in this roundup, air mattresses are compatible with RV bed frames, as long as they have the right dimensions. However, they’re going to be less durable than a non-inflatable RV mattress.
Types of RVs
Oftentimes, the type of RV you have will dictate the size of mattress you can get. While there are of course exceptions to every rule, here are some of the most common types of motorhomes you’ll see.
Motorhomes
This is what most people think of when they hear the word “RV.” It describes a vehicle where the driver’s seat and passenger seat are connected to the interior. They’re divided into three classes, each of which has a different size. Class A motorhomes are the largest and can usually accommodate any of the RV mattress sizes we’ve discussed. The next largest size is Class B, which usually has bunk beds or bed frames with RV Bunk sizes. Finally, there’s Class C, which doesn’t always have room for a new mattress. Instead, many of them are equipped with pull-out couches.
Pop-Up Trailers
These are separate vehicles towed behind a truck or car, and are often used for camping. They usually come with mattresses already installed that you can’t remove, so you might be better off going with a mattress topper if you’re looking to customize your sleeping experience.
Travel Trailers
These are a lot longer than pop-up trailers, but also tend to be narrower. They usually come with pull-out couches that can be customized with a mattress topper. But it’s rare that you’ll be able to bring in a new RV mattress.
Caring For Your RV Mattress
With any mattress, you should look at the care instructions for specifics on how to best maintain your mattress. But here are some general tips to help your RV bed last as long as possible.
- Use a dehumidifier: RVs can get pretty stuffy, especially when they’re not in use. So if you’re planning on keeping the mattress in there at all times, consider using a dehumidifier to keep the materials fresh and dry.
- Crack a window: As long as it’s safe to do so, keeping the windows open can allow fresh air into the RV and keep your RV mattress from accumulating mold.
- Store thoughtfully: If you only use your RV seasonally, consider keeping your RV mattress indoors, or at least placing it on some kind of elevated platform inside the vehicle. This will also help it last longer and keep humidity and mold at bay.
Summary
| Mattress | Superlative |
| Dreamfoam Essential | Best Overall |
| Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe | Best Hybrid |
| DreamCloud | Best for Back Sleepers |
| Helix Midnight | Best for Couples |
| Nolah Original Hybrid | Best for Side Sleepers |
| Plank Firm | Best for Heavy People |
| Dreamfoam Hybrid | Best for Lightweight Sleepers |
| Bear | Best Cheap Mattress |
Best RV Mattress FAQs
Can you use a mattress topper on an RV mattress?
Yes! A mattress topper is a great way to extend the life of your RV mattress. Just make sure you have the right size. Many mattress toppers are even available in RV-specific dimensions.
Can you use an RV mattress in all RVs?
No. Some RVs come with mattresses already installed that are unmovable. See our buying guide above for specific details, and make sure you know what kind of motorhome you have and what it can accommodate before making a purchase.
How can I make my RV mattress more comfortable?
Your best bet is to add a mattress topper, which can make your mattress feel softer or firmer. You can also try rotating your mattress or adding bedding that fits your sleep preferences.