When camping, you typically set up a tent, pitch it, and spend the night outside. The modern trend of car camping is becoming increasingly popular as there are best mattresses for sleeping in your SUV. So what are the best mattresses for sleeping in SUV?
The great outdoors can be experienced without being confined to a hotel or tent. The best car mattresses make it possible to experience a great night’s sleep without having to sacrifice some of the amenities that hotels provide.
For your next road trip or backpacking trip, we’ve gathered some of the best mattresses for sleeping in SUV.
How Do You Chose the Best Car Mattresses?
For this article, we consulted with Good Housekeeping Institute scientists (who have years of experience with air mattresses) for insight into what may make a good car air mattress based on their years of experience. We considered the following factors when selecting air mattresses for cars:
Inflation mechanism:
If you don’t have access to a campsite or just a car, blowing up an air mattress can be a tedious task. There are various types of inflatables on the market, some of which self-inflate, some of which are powered by batteries, and some of which are powered by an auxiliary power outlet.
Dimensions:
There is a possibility that larger air mattresses will not fit in the back or middle seat of a car. A typical SUV has a rear and cargo space of about 75 inches long and 55 inches wide with the middle row folded down, which is about the size of an average SUV.
Durability:
In order to avoid potential nicks caused by sharp stones or debris from outside or sharp edges on cars’ construction, we prioritized air mattresses made of durable PVC material.
Comfort:
To ensure optimal comfort in a small space, we looked for car air mattresses that were thick enough and would resist deflation.
What to Look for When Shopping for the Best Car Mattress?
Air mattresses for cars are a bit different from regular air mattresses because they are designed to fit specific car shapes and types. If you are shopping for an air mattress for your car, here are a few factors to consider:
Pump:
Some car air mattresses include a built-in pump for easier storage, while others require a pump. Alternatively, you can opt for something more like a camping sleeping pad that inflates on its own.
Inflation time:
Inflating and deflating thinner mattresses should only take a few minutes. From the manufacturer, you can find out specific times.
Height:
Since your car has a limited height, you’ll also need a mattress with a lower profile than a traditional air mattress to avoid bumping your head. It’s likely that most air mattresses for cars won’t be thicker than seven inches, but double-check to be sure.
Functionality:
A vehicle’s wheel wells are shaped like a T, allowing air mattresses to fit inside them. Short rectangular air mattresses should also fit in the rear of cars. A few inflatables feature different chambers that can be inflated, allowing you to shape them around particular shapes or place them in the middle row.
Fabric:
A car air mattress should be especially durable, so choose one made of PVC, a thick synthetic polymer of plastic that will not easily tear. By checking the denier (fiber thickness) of the fabric, you can determine how thick it will be. A heavy-duty garment is one that has 100 deniers or more. Flocked material is softer to the touch than slippery plastic, and it feels velvety to the touch. It is especially important for some odd-shaped car air mattresses, which may make it difficult to use a top sheet.
What are the Best Mattresses for Sleeping in SUV?
You might find it difficult to choose a car bed if you have never seen one before. To test which car bed works best, let’s grab some sleeping mattresses.
- Luno Life Car & SUV Camping Air Mattress
- SayGoGo Air Mattress
- Onirii Inflatable Car Air Mattress Bed
- Memory foam campaign mattress
- Nemo Roamer Sleeping pad
- Zenbivy MotoBed
- Hiraliy inflatable car mattress
1. Luno Life Car & SUV Camping Air Mattress
Our first pick is the best air mattress for sleeping in an SUV that fits over 180 vehicles. Two feet fill the gap between the front and rear seats in this model. A full-sized experience can be had by most people by extending the mattresses into your vehicle’s rear section. The dual-sided design of this Luno car bed, which makes it suitable for both couples and lone campers, is our favorite feature. A fast and efficient inflation system allows you to adjust the firmness of each side.
There is enough room for two people in the extra-large size. Fabric with a 300 Denier density. It is portable and compact when folded and deflated. It is possible to adjust the thickness of mattresses with dual sides. Suitable for most vehicles. The price of this car bed is higher than other car beds. Some models and makes of vehicles may not fit
2. SayGoGo Air Mattress
SayGoGo air mattresses are a functional and affordable alternative to other camping mattresses for sleeping in SUVs. Thanks to its versatile air pockets, it can fit in most cars, SUVs, and minivans. The company designs this mattress to offer the most comfortable sleeping experience while inside an SUV. It provides exceptional quality and comes with two pillows, an air pump that you can use both at home or in the car, and a storage bag. You can easily inflate the mattress in less than ten minutes using the included air pump, making it a breeze to set up. Three fully grown adults can sleep on it without a leak for a long time so you won’t have to keep inflating it.
Even side sleepers will find this sleeping pad’s exterior easy to clean and comfortable to sleep on. It fits practically any car space, as most customers mentioned in their reviews. Some customers reported that the package was missing the air pump. But the company may have resolved this issue by now. Check for the air pump before leaving for your trip. Ensure you have all the necessary components. When fully inflated, this product measures 175 x 130 x 15cm. The color is gray. PVC and flocking materials.
3. Onirii Inflatable Car Air Mattress Bed
The inflating and deflating of most car air beds take time. The Onirii inflatable car air mattress weighs only 2.5 kg. It is the best inflatable mattress for sleeping in an SUV. This seat extender lets you turn your car’s rear seat into a twin bed. This type of camping pad provides comfort and warmth on cold nights.
This sleeping pad’s anti-drop design is perfect for families traveling with children. A child will not be able to roll off the air mattress while sleeping on it. As you sleep, the stripes run parallel to your body, adding additional support. Contains an air bed, 2 air pillows, the air pump, 1 air foot pier, a sleep mask, 2 sleep ear plugs, and a puncture repair kit. Fully inflated, this inflatable measures 132 x 81 x 12 cm. The color is gray/black
4. Memory foam campaign mattress
It is possible to make a reasonably comfortable bed with regular foam, but memory foam provides much better comfort. This is one of the best SUV mattresses available. You experience comfort and support throughout the night as the material adapts to the shape of your body. This mattress has two memory foam layers. Firstly, there’s extra-dense foam for support, followed by softer foam for hugging.
In addition to the waterproof cover, this mattress is great for car camping. We also like the skid-free bottom. When you sleep, you won’t have to worry about sliding around. For extra comfort, the material is 2.75 inches thick. You can store it more easily because it rolls compactly. The cover is waterproof. But as time passes, it can compress. Heavier individuals should not use this product
5. Nemo Roamer Sleeping pad
One of the best car beds is the Nemo Roamer, which has an air mattress that self-inflates. The air bed requires a little bit of effort to operate, but it’s significantly less effort than other models. A pump that uses electric power to inflate the bed doesn’t save you that much time. This car air mattress is one of the best because it is made from recycled materials. Because it has a lower environmental impact, you can sleep on it with confidence. Roamers come in single and double widths. The double inflatable bed provides ample room for two people.
Inflation and deflation are accelerated using the proprietary Flow Core system. Transports easily thanks to its tight packing. For a smaller footprint, it’s made of recycled materials. The models can be ordered as singles or duals. There isn’t much difference in thickness between this air mattress and others. Compared to other camping beds, this is a more expensive
6. Zenbivy MotoBed
The Zenbivy MotoBed is a great addition to inflatable mattresses for sleeping in an SUV. There’s no need to pack a sleeping bag because this air mattress is also softshell clad and has a hood. An all-in-one mattress with built-in inflatable pillows works well for any situation. During the night, you will feel snug in a soft shell casing. Keeping you warm and cozy with a hood. It is a comfortable and durable dual-layer mattress. Transport is easier and faster with fast and easy rolling
You may feel constrained by the hood and cover if you’re on the heftier side. It may be difficult for you to move around too much if you sleep on your side, for instance. When putting it into place, it feels bulky and cumbersome. However, we think the MotoBed is one of the best car air mattresses on the market.
7. Hiraliy inflatable car mattress
You will find this Hiraliy car air bed to be an excellent choice if you are looking for a model that will not take up a lot of trunk space. You can stretch out flat on the back seat without falling. Material with three layers of wear resistance. A flocked top provides extra comfort. There are two inflatable pillows provided. The air pump is powered by electricity. An inflationary and deflationary spiral
A flocked top and two inflatable pillows are included in this air mattress for extra comfort. Furthermore, the back seat has feet that cover the entire area, so you won’t slip.
In addition to the front seats, this product includes a folding section that fits between them. As a result, you will have a little more space. The flap simply folds up if something is already there (for example, a middle console).
The electric air pump included with this air mattress is another great feature. As a result, it will inflate quickly and efficiently. Additionally, the air pump connects to the 12-volt adapter in the car, so no outlet is required. Occasionally, the mattress seams may leak. This product does not work with certain vehicles.
Choosing The Best Suv Mattress (Memory Foam Vs Air Mattress Vs Sleeping Pad)
1. Sleeping Pad As A Suv Bed Mattress
Pros:
- This camping mattress can be customized to fit your truck bed or SUV sleeping platform design by simply cutting down the sleeping pad.
- Since they are so inexpensive, it won’t matter when dirt and grime inevitably make their way into them.
- They’re also pretty compact when rolled or folded, so they’re perfect for camping from a pickup, minivan, or other small vehicle.
Cons:
- It is generally not the most comfortable choice to use foam sleeping pads when backpacking or tent camping. Especially after a long day on the trail, this option is less conducive to good sleep as we age.
- Nevertheless, if you are young, single, or using it for your children, this is a great option for car, SUV, or truck camping!
2. Air Mattress As A Suv Bed Mattress
Pros:
- Inflating a camping air mattress is simple; once you’re ready to set up camp, simply deflate it and inflate it again. The result is more storage space for gear while traveling and more usable interior space when packed away.
- Additionally, air mattresses are regarded as a giant step forward in comfort when compared to traditional foam sleeping pads, so they’re a great option for truck camping, SUV camping, or campervan setups.
- Having used self-inflating pads and air mattresses from Therm-a-rest and Big Agnes for years, choosing an air mattress seemed natural.
Cons:
- While air mattresses suffer from some limitations when it comes to truck camping (because there are some AMAZING air mattresses for camping out there! ), these limitations may play a role in your decision.
- Low insulation properties are the first characteristic.
- Although manufacturers offer insulated models to address this issue, we’ve found that air mattresses are simply colder in general. Rather than retaining your body heat close to your skin, the air inside the mattress actually absorbs and dissipates it.
- If you decide to use an air mattress, be sure to lay a blanket underneath it, not just on top.
- It is also generally less durable to use an air mattress than a foam sleeping pad or a memory foam camping mattress, primarily because of the possibility of puncturing the mattress while traveling or camping.
- Manufacturers, materials in construction, and simply luck all have a bearing on how susceptible they are to punctures. Even though we never experienced a puncture with our old therm-a-rests, it was always on our minds.
- When it comes to truck camping or SUV camping, air mattresses are limited by their fixed dimensions and their inability to be modified or customized.
- For example, our truck shell camper has a 70-inch sleeping platform. We’d trust Klymit, Big Agnes, Therm-a-rest to purchase an air mattress for our family because they only make lengths 72″ or higher.
3. Memory Foam As A Suv Or Truck Bed Mattress
Pros:
- Unlike air mattresses, memory foam camping mattresses are excellent insulators, which is important when camping in all four seasons.
- No sleeping pad can compare to memory foam’s comfort level.
- The value of being able to sleep just as well as at home cannot be overstated when we use the one we selected. Camping and traveling for long periods of time require your body to rest in preparation for the next day.
- Memory foam camping mattresses are also extremely customizable, so you can fit them exactly into your truck bed camper, car camper, SUV, or camper van.
- Making a totally customized camping mattress is a breeze if you know how to sew (or have a friend who does!) and have a sharp knife.
- It’s also a great idea to buy a tri-fold foam mattress, which allows you to fold up the mattress easily if necessary, while creating a pretty sweet couch area for relaxing or working.
Cons:
- However, memory foam camping mattresses won’t be appropriate for every camper.
- Our truck camper is too small to accommodate them because they are bulky and take up a lot of room.
- If you’re a cold-weather camper, you should also keep in mind that memory foam gets stiff when it gets cold, so until it melts from your body heat, it may feel uncomfortable. The inconvenience is more of an irritation than anything else, but it’s still worthwhile to mention.
- There is a possibility that memory foam mattresses are more susceptible to dirt and grime than air mattresses. They may also be harder to clean than traditional mattresses.
- If you need to wash the cover, choose a model with a removable one.
What are the Tips for Sleeping in Mattress Your Car?
It is sometimes necessary to start an outdoor adventure early. Car camping near trailheads can be a flexible and efficient alternative to tent camping, especially for those who want to save time and space on setup. Your rig can also provide some additional protection from the elements if you decide to spend the night there.
Check out these tips and hacks for making your next car trip more comfortable, organized, and enjoyable. What to pack, where to park, and how to make some creative upgrades are all discussed in this article.
Be sure to follow Leave No Trace principles and take common sense precautions when car camping, such as never sleeping in a vehicle with the engine running.
Park out of the way and know what permits you need
First of all, where to park is the most important question for every car sleeper. You can check out where you can stay legally and without being bothered with apps like AllStays and Hipcamp. The company offers both free and paid camping options. U.S. Federal Forest Service roads generally allow overnight camping and parking. Be sure to follow any local or temporary exceptions, display any required passes or permits as indicated, and don’t block the way for others. And dispersed camping is widely available in national forests and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) areas.
Set up your campsite
Camp in a shaded, flat area once you have found a parking spot that allows overnight parking and camping. It’s best to unload the vehicle away from other campers who are staying nearby when it’s time to unload. Find out what to pack in our camping essentials checklist, including items like a folding table, camp chairs, and a camp stove that can make camping more comfortable. We also cover the basics of camping for beginners in our article Camping for Beginners.
Sleep with your head toward the front of the car
Although flat places are preferred, they’re not always available on winding Forest Service roads or in remote locations. You should keep your head above your feet if your car is positioned at an angle. Since most cars have wheel wells at the back, sleeping with your head up front will also give you more elbow room. Do you still lack comfort? The REI Co-op has put together these camping hacks for you.
Keep your electronics charged
Traveling can be challenging when it comes to keeping electronics charged. Although you can plug devices into the car while it is running, you won’t be able to connect them overnight. If you want to use your phone, tablet, camera, or any other battery-powered item during your trip, put a solar panel on your dashboard or use a portable power device. Do you have a hard time choosing between them? Here are some tips on choosing solar chargers and portable power sources.
Conclusion
So you might get a clear idea about the best mattresses for sleeping in SUV. It can make a big difference in your comfort and overall experience to invest in an inflatable mattress if you’re planning to sleep in your SUV. Choose your mattresses with an inflate and deflate pump, a non-skid bottom, and features specifically designed for vehicles.
The best mattresses for sleeping in an SUV are Luno Life Car & SUV Camping Air Mattress, SayGoGo Air Mattress, Onirii Inflatable Car Air Mattress Bed, Memory foam campaign mattress, Nemo Roamer Sleeping pad, Zenbivy MotoBed, Hiraliy inflatable car mattress.
FAQ
Is it possible to sleep in my SUV on a long road trip?
For long road trips, sleeping in your SUV can be convenient and cost-effective. Be sure to plan your stops carefully and take breaks to stretch your legs.
Are SUVs comfortable for sleeping?
Taking the necessary precautions can make sleeping in an SUV safe. If you want privacy, park your vehicle in a safe and legal place. If you plan to use heating or cooking devices in your vehicle, make sure you have adequate ventilation and carbon monoxide detectors
Do regular mattresses fit in my SUV?
The most practical option may not be to use a regular mattress in your SUV. An SUV’s limited space may make it difficult to transport and store regular mattresses.
What is the procedure for inflating and deflating a mattress?
You can power your inflatable SUV mattress with a portable battery pack or with your vehicle’s cigarette lighter. Expel the air by rolling the mattress up and opening the valve.
What is the best way to clean and maintain my mattress?
Clean and maintain according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Inflatable mattresses are generally cleanable with a damp cloth and mild soap and should be kept dry when not in use. Checking for leaks and patching them periodically is also a good idea.
Learn about how to build a foldable sleeping platform for an SUV check it out DIY Guide: Building A Foldable Sleeping Platform For An SUV