Even during a global pandemic, the desire to travel has been hard to resist. Fueled by wanderlust or maybe just cabin fever, people have had to find new, safer ways to see the world. One option that’s risen to the top? Traveling by RV or camper van.

Over the past year, "van life” has skyrocketed in popularity as people find they can still experience freedom and fun but with more control over their environment. In fact, Jared McCauslin, chief operating officer of van conversion and rental company VanDOit, says their sales have doubled since the pandemic began.

If you're considering trading your normal day-to-day routine for a life on the road, make sure one thing remains a priority: your sleep.

How to Choose an RV or Camper Van Mattress

When hitting the open road, your van isn’t just your mode of transportation, it’s your bedroom, too. After adventurous days, you’ll need something better than a flimsy cot to keep you rested for the journey ahead.

What you want is a durable mattress that offers quality support for deep, rejuvenating sleep every night. As far as specifics go, memory foam mattresses are the best option when it comes to van living, says McCauslin. Memory foam is comfortable, malleable, and offers ample support. Not to mention, when sleeping in environments that don’t provide a ton of climate control, having a mattress that features enhanced breathability and cooling properties is key.

While it’s possible to cut through memory foam to perfectly match your camper van’s sleep space, most vans accommodate standard RV sizes. These sizes include the Three-Quarter, which measures 48 by 75 inches, making it smaller than a full but bigger than a twin. It’s great for smaller vans and perfectly accommodates two small kids.

Another option, the Short King, measures 72 by 75 inches and sleeps two to three people without taking up too much room.

Whichever you prefer, Mattress Firm now offers a huge selection of memory foam mattresses available in RV sizes. Check out some of our Sleep Experts’ favorite options.

Our Top RV and Camper Van Mattress Picks

Sleepy’s Snug 8” Plush Memory Foam Mattress

Topped with gel-infused memory foam and supported by layers of conforming foam, Sleepy’s Snug delivers a comfy, supportive sleep. The mattress is even infused with charcoal, which can help regulate body temperature and wick away moisture. Plus, its smaller profile height makes it a no-brainer for your home away from home.

Sleepy’s Doze 10” Plush Memory Foam Mattress

Next up, our Sleep Experts™ recommend the Sleepy’s Doze. It’s a bit thicker than the Snug, with two more inches of support, and you’ll notice those extra layers of memory foam. The top layers are still gel-infused so you can enjoy pressure-relieving support night in and night out. It even features infused charcoal, which helps keep you at your ideal temperature throughout the night.

tulo 8” Gel Memory Foam Mattress

Right from the top, this mattress has it all: comfort and core support. The layer of gel memory foam is responsive and breathable, gently contours to your body, and helps with motion isolation (great for when you’re sleeping with a partner). Plus, the supportive foam base helps keep your spine aligned so you can wake up feeling rested, not achy. Not to mention, the tulo 8" Gel Memory Foam Mattress is a great eco-friendly option as every tulo mattress is made with foams that are tested and certified by CertiPUR-US so you can rest assured knowing you’re sleeping on a clean and safe bed.

Sealy 12” Plush Memory Foam Mattress

When it comes to trusted quality, our Sleep Experts love a Sealy mattress and this one is no different. Its soft, conforming memory foam offers personalized comfort, while denser layers within the mattress keep you supported. Plus, the top layers are infused with gel and copper which help promote cooler, more comfortable sleep. And the best part? This mattress comes shipped in a box, so unpacking it in your camper van or RV will be a breeze.

TEMPUR-Adapt+ Cooling Mattress Topper

If you’re looking for a quick and affordable way to instantly upgrade an existing RV mattress, consider trying a memory-foam mattress topper. Whether you want the cooling benefits or additional support, this Tempur-Pedic mattress topper has it all. With three inches of proprietary. TEMPUR Material, it’s a great way to enhance your van’s sleep space without starting from scratch.

Traveling the open road has so many perks, including more freedom and endless opportunities. But in order to make the most of van life, you’ll need equal parts rest and relaxation. Visit Mattress Firm today and our Sleep Experts will find the right mattress that suits your adventurous lifestyle. And then check out our tips for How to Seep in a Camper Van and Wake Up Feeling Fantastic.