RV Mattress Sizes Guide: Short Queen, RV King, Bunk Sizes and How to Measure
Quick answer: the most common RV mattress is a short queen at 60 by 75 inches, about five inches shorter than a standard queen. An RV queen is 60 by 80 inches, an RV king is 72 by 80 inches (narrower than a residential king), an RV short king is 72 by 75 and an RV California king is 72 by 84. Bunk mattresses vary widely.
This article is part of our mattress buying guide, where you can compare related options.
RV beds look standard but are not. The bed platform is often an odd size, which is why mattresses labeled “short queen” or “RV king” exist. Buying a regular mattress that does not fit leads to returns and cramped sleeping. This guide explains the main RV mattress sizes, how bunks differ, how to measure, which mattress types suit RVs and what to check before buying. Sources agreed on sizes, though they may vary by manufacturer. The search did not cover mattress weight, so I have nothing on that.
RV Mattress Sizes at a Glance
| Size | Width | Length |
|---|---|---|
| Short queen | 60 inches | 75 inches |
| RV queen | 60 inches | 80 inches |
| RV king | 72 inches | 80 inches |
| RV short king | 72 inches | 75 inches |
| RV California king | 72 inches | 84 inches |
| RV bunk | 28 to 35 inches | 75 to 80 inches |
| Twin (reference) | 38 inches | 75 inches |
The short queen at 60 by 75 inches is the most common RV size and is about five inches shorter than a standard queen, which is 60 by 80. An RV queen mattress measures the same as a residential queen mattress. An RV king is usually 72 by 80 inches, 4 inches narrower than a standard king (76 inches). An RV short king measures 72 inches wide and 75 inches long.
For household sizes, see the twin mattress dimensions, king vs queen and full size bed dimensions in feet guides.
Short Queen
The short queen is popular because RV bedrooms are tight. The “short” versions are a common source of confusion. Key points: It is the same width as a queen but five inches shorter. Sheets for a regular queen may be too long. Look for short queen sheets or deep-pocket queen sheets that can be tucked. Taller sleepers may find it short.
Helix publishes RV mattress dimensions, listing short queen as 74 by 60 inches, which shows that sizes can vary by maker by an inch. Always check the exact dimensions.
RV Queen and RV King
An RV queen is the same as a household queen. Choose it if your platform is 80 inches long. An RV king at 72 by 80 is narrower than a residential king, and a standard king (76 inches) may not fit. Check platform width before buying.
An RV California king at 72 by 84 inches is longer and narrower, for tall sleepers with enough length.
Bunk Mattresses
Bunk mattresses vary more. One chart lists RV bunk at 28 to 35 by 75 to 80 inches, and another gives 28 to 35 by 75. Many bunks are narrow and custom. Measure carefully. Bunk mattresses are often thin, so check the maximum thickness for the bunk and any ceiling clearance. See the twin loft bed and twin over full bunk bed guides for general bunk safety, and note that RV bunks may have their own rules.
How to Measure an RV Mattress
- Measure the platform, not the old mattress. Mattresses can compress or distort.
- Measure width and length at several points, because corners may be cut or tapered.
- Check for rounded or cut corners (common in RVs). Some mattresses are made with cut corners.
- Measure height available for thickness. Check storage hatches, windows and ceiling clearance.
- Check how the bed lifts. Many RV beds lift for storage underneath. Heavy mattresses can make lifting hard.
- Compare with the maker’s size chart. Sizes vary between manufacturers, so double-check measurements before making a purchase.
Choosing the Mattress Type
Memory foam. Comfortable and lightweight compared with innerspring. Camping World’s guides list memory foam options such as a gel memory foam mattress in 8, 12 and 14 inch thicknesses depending on the model. Sizes vary by brand. See the best memory foam mattress guide. Hybrid. Heavier, costlier, but supportive. See the best firm mattress guide. Innerspring. Often standard in factory RVs. Latex. Durable but heavy. Cooling options. Useful in hot campers. See the best cooling mattress guide.
The search did not give weights, so check each product’s shipping weight and the lift mechanism’s limit.
Thickness and Space
RV platforms often have limited head clearance. A very thick mattress may reduce headroom or block a window or storage. Check: distance from the platform to the ceiling or cabinets; whether the bed folds, slides or lifts; whether the thicker mattress will still fit through the door; whether bedding still fits.
Delivery and Entry
RV doors and hallways are narrow. Mattresses in boxes are easier to carry. Compressed foam mattresses can be rolled and carried through narrow openings. Check the entry path before you buy a hybrid.
Bedding
Short queen and RV king sheets are sold by RV and bedding stores. A short queen fitted sheet should be 60 by 75 inches with deep pockets. See the fitted sheet guide. You can also buy standard queen sheets and tuck extra length. Check the bedspread and comforter sizes, because RV beds often sit against walls.
What are the main strengths and weaknesses?
On the plus side: better sleep than factory mattresses; many sizes and types; memory foam is lighter than many hybrids. On the downside: sizes are not standardized; measuring is essential; custom sizes cost more; weight and thickness limits.
How to Choose an RV Mattress
Measure the platform. Identify the size name (short queen, RV queen, RV king). Confirm with the maker’s chart. Check thickness and headroom. Choose the mattress type. Check weight and lifting. Check the entry path. Check trial period and returns. See the best affordable mattress guide for what to ask. Plan bedding. Read reviews from RV owners.
What mistakes should you avoid?
A few common mistakes are worth avoiding: ordering a standard queen for a short queen platform; using the old mattress as a measure; ignoring cut corners; choosing too thick a mattress; forgetting about the lift mechanism; not checking bedding fit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size is a short queen?
60 by 75 inches.
What is the difference between an RV queen and a short queen?
An RV queen is 60 by 80 inches and a short queen is 60 by 75 inches.
How big is an RV king?
Usually 72 by 80 inches, narrower than a household king.
What size are RV bunk mattresses?
About 28 to 35 inches wide and 75 to 80 inches long, but they vary.
Can I put a regular queen in an RV?
If the platform is 60 by 80 inches, yes. Check before you buy.
What mattress is best for an RV?
It depends. Memory foam is common, and thickness and weight matter. Sizes vary by brand.
Conclusion
RV mattress sizes are different from household sizes. The short queen at 60 by 75 inches is the most common, and RV kings are narrower than residential kings. Measure your platform, confirm the maker’s size chart and check thickness and weight.
With accurate measurements, you can find a mattress that fits and sleeps well on the road.
Related guides
King Size Mattress: Dimensions, King vs California King and Room SizeA king size mattress is the largest standard bed most people can buy, and it gives couples plenty of room to…Read more →
Folding Mattress: Tri-Fold Foam Thickness, Sizes, Density and Who It SuitsA folding mattress is a foam mattress that folds into thirds so you can store it in a closet or carry it.…Read more →
Adjustable Mattress Guide: Which Mattress Types Work on Adjustable Bases (Foam, Latex, Hybrid) and What to CheckQuick answer: most foam, latex and many hybrid mattresses work on an adjustable bed base. Casper rates memory…Read more →
Full vs Queen Mattress: Size Difference, Couples, Room Size, Price and How to ChooseFull and queen mattresses are two of the most popular sizes in the country, and they look close on a size…Read more →
