Bed Portable Enough for RV Use: 5 Foldable Options That Save Significant Space

The fundamental principle behind space-saving beds in an RV is simple: get the bed out of the way when you don’t need it for sleeping. Traditional beds have a constant, static footprint. Foldable beds, on the other hand, are designed to drastically reduce their size or change their form factor when not in use, thereby freeing up valuable floor area.

How much space can you actually save? The idea of saving “70% of storage space” is a compelling one, and while the exact percentage can vary wildly, the impact on usable floor space can indeed be profound. A fixed bed might take up 30 square feet of floor space. If you replace that with a bed that folds up against a wall or into a compact unit, you are effectively reclaiming that entire 30 square feet of floor area for daytime use. Compared to the zero square feet of usable floor space the fixed bed provided during the day, the folded bed offers a significant percentage increase in functional area.

Different types of foldable beds achieve this space-saving in different ways. Some fold horizontally, becoming part of another furniture piece like a sofa. Others fold vertically, tucking away against a wall. Still others break down into smaller, storable components. The key is that their “stored” footprint is dramatically smaller than their “in use” footprint.

This transformation isn’t just about having more empty floor. It allows for a more dynamic and flexible interior layout. That space can become a walkway, an area for kids to play, room to set up a table and chairs, or space for built-in storage that was previously impossible. The percentage of floor space reclaimed is often very high, giving the feeling of a massive increase in usable area, which is likely where the “70% storage space” notion originates – referring to the space previously dedicated to the bed’s footprint that is now available for other uses.

One of the simplest and most portable space-saving sleeping solutions for an RV is the tri-fold mattress. As the name suggests, this is a mattress designed with two hinges or folds, allowing it to collapse into three stacked sections.

What It Is: A tri-fold mattress is essentially a piece of foam or sometimes a combination of foam layers, covered in fabric, that can be folded twice. When unfolded, it lies flat like a regular mattress. When folded, it becomes a compact, rectangular block.

How It Saves Space: The primary way a tri-fold mattress saves space is through its ability to shrink its footprint dramatically when folded. Instead of a long, flat mattress taking up floor or bed platform space constantly, it becomes a much smaller, thicker cube or rectangle. This folded unit can then be easily stored out of the way – perhaps tucked under a dinette seat, stowed in a storage bay, placed in a closet, or even used as temporary seating if firm enough. This frees up the entire area where the mattress would normally lie flat.

Pros for RV Use:

• Portability: They are lightweight and often come with handles, making them easy to move around inside or outside the RV.
• Affordability: Compared to built-in solutions like sofa beds or Murphy beds, tri-fold mattresses are generally much less expensive.
• Simplicity: There are no complex mechanisms or installation required; you just unfold it to use and fold it to store.
• Versatility: Can be used on the floor, on an existing platform, or even outside for lounging.

Cons for RV Use:

• Comfort: While many are comfortable, they are typically thinner than standard mattresses, which can affect support, especially for adult users or longer trips. The folds can sometimes be felt.
• Requires Separate Storage: Unlike a sofa bed or Murphy bed, the tri-fold mattress needs a dedicated spot to be stored when folded. This storage space must be available elsewhere in the RV.
• Durability: The foam density and cover material quality vary widely. Cheaper options may compress or wear out quickly with frequent use.

Technical Details: Tri-fold mattresses are commonly made from polyurethane foam, memory foam, or a combination. Polyurethane foam (C3​H8​N2​O

) provides the basic structure and support. Its density (measured in pounds per cubic foot) affects its firmness and durability; higher density generally means a firmer, more durable mattress. Memory foam (viscoelastic polyurethane foam) is often added as a top layer for pressure relief and comfort. This material reacts to heat and pressure, conforming to the body’s shape. Some memory foam versions include gel infusions or have an open-cell structure to help dissipate heat, as traditional memory foam can retain warmth. The cover is typically a removable, washable fabric like polyester or a cotton blend, often with a non-slip bottom. The folding mechanism is simply the inherent flexibility of the foam at specific points, sometimes reinforced by the cover design.

Space Saved: When unfolded, a twin-size tri-fold mattress might take up about 30 inches by 75 inches of floor space. When folded into three sections, its footprint is reduced to roughly 30 inches by 25 inches, but it’s three times as thick (e.g., 4 inches thick unfolded becomes 12 inches thick folded). This means the floor area occupied is reduced by about 66% (from 30×75 to 30×25). The space it frees up on the floor is the full 30×75 area.

Tri-fold mattresses are an excellent solution for adding an extra bed for guests, children, or occasional use without needing a permanent bed structure.

A staple in many RVs, the sofa bed is a prime example of multi-functional furniture that effectively tackles the space challenge. It serves as comfortable seating during the day and transforms into a bed at night.

What It Is: An RV sofa bed is a piece of furniture that looks like a standard sofa but contains a hidden mattress and frame mechanism that allows it to convert into a sleeping surface.

How It Saves Space: The genius of the sofa bed lies in its dual purpose. By combining seating and sleeping into one unit, it eliminates the need for a separate bed area. The floor space occupied by the sofa during the day becomes the bed area at night. When the bed is folded away, the living area is open and functional. This is a direct way to save the entire footprint that a dedicated bed would require.

Pros for RV Use:

• Dual Functionality: Provides essential seating and a bed in the same location.
• Integrated Design: Blends seamlessly into the RV’s living area.
• Convenience: The bed is ready within minutes by converting the sofa.
• Various Styles: Available in different sizes and upholstery options to match RV interiors.

Cons for RV Use:

• Comfort: Often less comfortable than a dedicated mattress. The mattress is typically thinner to fold into the sofa structure, and support bars or mechanisms underneath can sometimes be felt.
• Weight: Sofa beds are heavier than tri-fold mattresses or cots due to the frame and mechanism.
• Conversion Effort: Some mechanisms can be stiff or cumbersome to operate, especially in older models.
• Cost: Generally more expensive than portable options like tri-folds or cots.

Technical Details: RV sofa beds utilize various conversion mechanisms. Common types include:

• Pull-Out: The seat cushions are removed, and a mattress and frame are pulled out from underneath the sofa base. This often involves a metal frame with a thin innerspring or foam mattress.
• Jackknife: The back of the sofa folds down flat to meet the seat cushion, creating a flat sleeping surface. This is a simpler mechanism but often results in a very firm bed formed by the sofa cushions themselves, or a thin mattress laid over them.
• Click-Clack (or Futon Style): The backrest ratchets down into a flat position. Similar to a jackknife but the back and seat are usually a single upholstered unit.

The frame of an RV sofa bed is typically constructed from steel or lightweight aluminum for durability and weight considerations, sometimes combined with a wood or plywood base for the seating area. The mattress is usually a thin innerspring or high-density foam mattress, designed to fold or bend with the mechanism. Upholstery is commonly durable fabric, often chosen for resistance to wear and tear and ease of cleaning.

Space Saved: A typical RV sofa bed might occupy a floor space of 60-70 inches in width and 30-35 inches in depth when in sofa mode. When converted, it might extend to 60-70 inches in width and 70-75 inches in length. The space-saving comes from the fact that the 60×70-75 inch area is only used for sleeping at night. During the day, that same area serves as seating, effectively saving the space a separate bed of that size would need.

Sofa beds are ideal for RVers who want to maintain a dedicated living area during the day and have an integrated sleeping solution that doesn’t require finding separate storage space.

For RVers traveling with families or multiple guests, folding bunk beds offer an ingenious way to add sleeping capacity without permanently sacrificing a large amount of floor space. These beds are designed to fold up vertically against a wall when not needed.

What It Is: RV folding bunk beds typically consist of one or two bed platforms with thin mattresses, mounted to a wall with hinges. They can be lowered for sleeping and folded back up flat against the wall for storage.

How It Saves Space: Folding bunk beds utilize vertical space that is often unused during the day. By folding upwards, they free up the floor area directly beneath them. If it’s a single folding bunk, the space below becomes available. If it’s a set of two, the floor space below the lower bunk is reclaimed. This is particularly effective in areas like hallways or rear storage compartments that can be converted.

Pros for RV Use:

• Excellent for Multiple Sleepers: Provides separate beds for children or guests.
• Significant Floor Space Savings: Clears the floor area completely when folded up.
• Beds Can Remain Made: Often, the bedding can be left on the bunk when folded, simplifying bedtime setup.
• Utilizes Vertical Space: Takes advantage of wall space rather than floor space.

Cons for RV Use:

• Requires Wall Installation: Needs secure mounting to the RV’s structure.
• Can Feel Enclosed: The stacked nature might feel a bit cramped for some sleepers.
• Weight Limits: Bunks have specific weight capacities that must be adhered to for safety.
• May Need a Ladder: Accessing the top bunk usually requires a ladder, which also needs storage.

Technical Details: The structure of folding bunk beds involves a sturdy frame, often made from steel or aluminum tubing for strength and reduced weight. The bed platform itself might be plywood or a tensioned fabric like 600 Denier PVC Interwoven Fabric stretched over a frame. The key component is the hinge mechanism that allows the bunk to pivot smoothly from a horizontal sleeping position to a vertical stored position. A latching system is critical to keep the bunk securely in place against the wall during travel. Mattresses for bunk beds are typically thin high-density foam to minimize folded bulk and weight. Safety features like guard rails are often included, especially for the top bunk.

Space Saved: Consider a set of folding bunk beds, each measuring approximately 28 inches by 75 inches. When folded up against the wall, their combined depth might only be 8-12 inches, and they take up a vertical section of the wall. When lowered, they occupy a floor area of about 28 inches by 75 inches for each bunk, stacked vertically. By folding them up, the entire 28×75 inch floor area beneath the lower bunk is freed up, plus the vertical space they occupied when down. This is a highly efficient use of space for increasing sleeping capacity.

Folding bunk beds are a fantastic option for RVers who need to accommodate more people and have available wall space that can be structurally reinforced for installation.

Perhaps the most dramatic space-saving solution in the RV world is the Murphy bed. Named after William L. Murphy, who patented the concept for apartments, this bed folds up into a wall or cabinet, often revealing another living space function underneath.

What It Is: An RV Murphy bed is a bed frame and mattress system that is hinged at one end (usually the head) and stored vertically against a wall or inside a dedicated cabinet. When lowered, it provides a full-size bed.

How It Saves Space: The Murphy bed’s primary advantage is its ability to completely disappear into the wall or a cabinet during the day. This frees up the entire floor area that the bed would otherwise occupy. In many RV layouts, a sofa or dinette is positioned in front of the Murphy bed cabinet, meaning that space serves as a living or dining area by day and is transformed into a bedroom by night. This offers an unparalleled level of space flexibility.

Pros for RV Use:

• Maximizes Floor Space: Creates the largest amount of open floor area compared to other options when stored.
• Clean Aesthetics: The bed is hidden from view, resulting in a tidy living space.
• Bed Can Remain Made: Like folding bunks, bedding can often be left on the mattress when folded up.
• Integrated Functionality: Often combined with other furniture like sofas or desks.

Cons for RV Use:

• Significant Installation: Requires secure mounting to the RV’s structural elements and often involves building or integrating a cabinet.
• Weight and Complexity: The mechanism and frame can be heavy and more complex than simpler folding beds.
• Takes Up Wall Space: Requires a large, uninterrupted section of wall.
• Cost: Murphy beds are typically the most expensive foldable bed option due to the mechanism and required cabinetry.

Technical Details: The core of an RV Murphy bed is the lift mechanism. This usually involves springs or gas pistons that counterbalance the weight of the bed, making it easier to lift and lower. The frame holding the mattress is typically made of steel or aluminum for strength and minimal weight. This frame is attached via heavy-duty hinges to a pivot point on the wall or within the cabinet structure. A robust latching system is essential to keep the bed securely in the upright position during travel. The mattress used in a Murphy bed needs to be of a specific thickness and weight to work correctly with the lift mechanism; typically, foam or hybrid mattresses are used. The surrounding cabinetry or wall structure must be strong enough to support the weight of the bed and the forces exerted by the mechanism.

Space Saved: Imagine an RV with a dedicated queen bed (60×75 inches). This occupies over 30 square feet of floor space constantly. Replacing this with a Murphy bed that folds up against the wall frees up that entire 30+ square feet of floor area for daytime use. If the area underneath becomes a living room with a sofa, you’ve effectively made one space serve two major functions, leading to a significant increase in the usable, non-sleeping floor area.

RV Murphy beds are an excellent choice for RVers who prioritize maximizing open living space and want a permanent, yet hidden, bed solution.

Beyond the most common types, several other foldable and portable sleeping options can provide valuable space savings in an RV. These might be simpler, more temporary, or offer unique configurations.

One such alternative is the high-quality folding cot. These are not the flimsy cots you might associate with camping, but rather sturdier versions designed for comfort.

What It Is: A folding cot is a portable bed frame, usually made of metal tubing (steel or aluminum), with a fabric or spring base and a thin mattress or padded surface. It folds up lengthwise or in multiple sections for storage.

How It Saves Space: Folding cots are designed for ultimate portability and minimal storage size. They fold down into a long, narrow shape that can be easily stowed in a storage bay, under a fixed bed, or in a closet. When unfolded, they provide a raised sleeping surface, keeping you off the floor.

Pros for RV Use:

• Highly Portable: Lightweight and easy to set up and take down.
• Minimal Storage Footprint: Folds into a very compact shape.
• Affordable: Generally less expensive than sofa beds or Murphy beds.
• No Installation Required: Can be placed anywhere there’s space.

Cons for RV Use:

• Comfort Varies: Comfort depends heavily on the quality of the base and padding; some may still feel firm or sag.
• Appearance: Less integrated into the RV interior aesthetic compared to built-in options.
• Requires Separate Storage: Needs a place to be put away when not in use.
• Weight Capacity: Limits vary by model.

Technical Details: Folding cots typically use a tubular metal frame (steel for strength, aluminum for lighter weight) with hinged legs that fold flat. The sleeping surface can be durable polyester or canvas fabric stretched taut, or it might incorporate springs or a mesh material for added support. Some include a thin foam mattress pad for comfort. The folding mechanism is based on simple pivots and hinges, allowing the legs and frame to collapse.

Another alternative involves modular seating systems that can be reconfigured into beds.

What It Is: These systems consist of individual upholstered blocks or sections that can be arranged as sofas, chairs, or combined to form a sleeping platform.

How It Saves Space: Space is saved through reconfiguration rather than folding into a smaller unit. The components serve as seating during the day and are rearranged to create a bed at night. This allows the same area to be used for different purposes.

Pros for RV Use:

• High Versatility: Allows for multiple layout configurations.
• Customizable: Can often be adapted to unique RV layouts.
• No Installation (usually): Components are typically freestanding.

Cons for RV Use:

• Can Be Cumbersome: Rearranging sections nightly might be inconvenient.
• Comfort Varies: Depends on the firmness and design of the modular blocks.
• Storage of Extra Pieces: If not all pieces are used in the bed configuration, the extras need storage.

Technical Details: Modular systems are usually constructed with wood or foam cores and upholstered in durable fabric. The “folding” or conversion isn’t a mechanical hinge but rather the physical rearrangement of the individual blocks. Some systems might use simple latching mechanisms to hold sections together in different configurations.

These alternative options provide flexibility for RVers with specific needs or those looking for simpler, non-permanent solutions to add sleeping capacity and save space.

Selecting the right foldable bed for your RV isn’t a one-size-fits-all decision. Several factors should influence your choice to ensure it meets your needs for comfort, convenience, and space-saving effectiveness.

• RV Size and Layout: This is perhaps the most critical factor. A large Class A motorhome might accommodate a full-size RV sofa bed or even a built-in Murphy bed system. A smaller Class B van conversion or a compact travel trailer might be better suited for a tri-fold mattress or folding cot that can be easily stowed. Consider the available floor space, wall space, and existing furniture. Where will the bed go when in use, and where will it be stored when folded? Measure potential locations carefully.
• Number of Sleepers and Frequency of Use: How many extra sleeping spots do you need? Is the bed for occasional guests, children, or will it be used nightly by a primary traveler? For frequent use, comfort and ease of conversion are paramount. For occasional use, portability and storage size might be more important. Folding bunk beds are great for multiple children, while a sofa bed or Murphy bed might suit a couple or single adult guest.
• Comfort vs. Compactness: There’s often a trade-off between how comfortable a bed is and how small it folds down. Thicker mattresses are generally more comfortable but take up more space when stored. Tri-fold mattresses and cots are very compact but might not offer the support of a thicker mattress found in some sofa beds or Murphy beds. Decide what level of comfort is acceptable for the intended user and frequency of use. Look into mattress materials – memory foam offers pressure relief but can be warm, while foam density affects firmness and durability.
• Budget: The cost of foldable RV beds varies significantly. A simple tri-fold mattress can be relatively inexpensive, while a high-quality RV sofa bed or a professionally installed Murphy bed system represents a much larger investment. Determine your budget before you start shopping.
• Installation Requirements: Tri-fold mattresses and cots require no installation. Sofa beds replace existing seating and might require bolting down. Folding bunk beds and Murphy beds require secure mounting to the RV’s structure, which can be a complex DIY project or require professional help. Assess your skills and willingness to undertake installation, or factor in the cost of professional services. Ensure the RV’s walls or floor in the intended location are structurally sound enough to support the bed and its users.
• Weight Capacity: Always check the weight limit of any foldable bed, especially bunk beds and cots. Ensure it can safely support the intended sleepers. RVs also have overall weight limits (GVWR – Gross Vehicle Weight Rating), so consider the weight of the bed itself, particularly for heavier options like sofa beds and Murphy beds, although the space saved often allows you to shed weight elsewhere.

By carefully evaluating these factors against your specific RV and travel style, you can narrow down the options and choose the foldable bed that will best enhance your space and comfort on the road.

Once you’ve chosen the right foldable bed for your RV, understanding the basics of installation (if required) and ongoing maintenance will ensure its longevity and safe operation.

Installation:

• Tri-Fold Mattresses and Folding Cots: These require no permanent installation. Simply unpack them, unfold them in the desired location, and they are ready to use. The main consideration is finding a suitable, secure place to store them when folded during travel so they don’t shift.
• RV Sofa Beds: Often, these replace an existing sofa or dinette. Installation typically involves securing the sofa bed frame to the RV’s floor or a wall for stability during transit. This might require drilling pilot holes and using appropriate bolts or lag screws. Ensure you know what’s beneath the floor or behind the wall before drilling. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions precisely.
• Folding Bunk Beds and Murphy Beds: These require the most involved installation as they must be securely anchored to the RV’s wall structure. This is critical for safety, as the wall must support the weight of the bed and the people sleeping on it. You’ll need to locate wall studs or use robust backing plates to distribute the load. The lift mechanisms (springs or pistons) and hinges need to be correctly aligned and installed for smooth operation. Latching mechanisms must be installed to keep the bed securely stowed during travel. If you’re not experienced with carpentry and structural mounting in an RV, hiring a professional installer is highly recommended. Incorrect installation can lead to damage or injury.

Setting Up and Folding Down:

Practice the conversion process for your chosen bed type. Understand how the mechanisms work. For sofa beds and Murphy beds, ensure the area is clear of obstacles before attempting to convert them. For folding bunks, check that the latching system is fully engaged when stored and disengaged before lowering. Teach everyone who will use the bed how to safely set it up and fold it away.

Maintenance:

• Cleaning: Keep the mattress and upholstery clean. Most tri-fold mattresses have removable, washable covers. For sofa beds, bunks, and Murphy beds, spot clean upholstery as needed using appropriate fabric cleaners. Air out mattresses regularly to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to mold or mildew in the RV environment.
• Mechanism Check: For sofa beds, bunks, and Murphy beds, periodically inspect the hinges, springs, pistons, and latching mechanisms. Ensure bolts and screws are tight. Lubricate moving parts according to the manufacturer’s recommendations to keep them operating smoothly and prevent squeaks.
• Structural Integrity: For wall-mounted beds (bunks and Murphy beds), regularly check the wall anchors and frame connections for any signs of loosening or stress.
• Proper Storage: When folding beds are stored, ensure they are secured so they don’t move during transit. Tri-fold mattresses should be stored in a dry, clean area.

Taking the time to properly install and maintain your foldable RV bed will ensure it provides a comfortable sleeping space and functions correctly for years of travel.

Living in an RV is about embracing a minimalist lifestyle while still enjoying the comforts of home. Space is a precious resource, and traditional, fixed beds often consume a disproportionate amount of it, limiting the functionality of your mobile living area. This is where portable and foldable sleeping solutions shine, offering ingenious ways to reclaim valuable space during the day.

We’ve explored five effective options: the simple and portable tri-fold mattress, the dual-purpose RV sofa bed, the vertical space-saving folding bunk beds, the dramatically space-maximizing RV Murphy bed, and alternative solutions like high-quality folding cots and modular systems. While the exact percentage of space saved varies, these options all provide the potential to free up a significant portion of the floor area that a fixed bed would occupy, making your RV feel much larger and more versatile.

Choosing the best foldable bed depends on your specific RV size and layout, how many people need to sleep, your budget, and your priorities regarding comfort and ease of use. Whether you opt for the simplicity of a tri-fold, the integrated design of a sofa bed, the stacked efficiency of bunks, the hidden convenience of a Murphy bed, or the flexibility of an alternative, investing in a smart sleeping solution can dramatically improve your RV experience. By selecting the right bed and ensuring proper installation and maintenance, you can enjoy comfortable nights and spacious, functional days on all your adventures.