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How Thick Should An RV Mattress Topper Be For Your Situation?

Kelly Headshot

By Kelly Beasley

Hey there, fellow RVer! I know you love the freedom of the open road and the comfort of your camper, but sometimes, that mattress just doesn't cut it, right?

If you don't like the feel of your bed in your motorhome or trailer, know that RV manufacturers purposefully place cheap, low-quality mattresses in most of their units.

This is because they know most new owners will replace whatever bed is in the unit due to varying personal sleep preferences.

Intech luxurious trailer bedroom

Or, if you buy used, the previous owner's comfort level in a mattress might not match yours. So that's where a mattress topper comes in if you don't want to spend major bucks on a brand-new mattress.

Let's help you figure out the right RV mattress topper thickness for better sleep so you can keep exploring comfortably.

RV Mattress Topper Thickness Options

So how thick should a topper for your RV mattress be?

First, let's talk about your options. RV memory foam mattress topper thicknesses typically range from 2-4 inches, and the right thickness for yours depends on a few various factors.

It's essential to consider your weight, sleeping position, the height available (aka, if the bed is on a slide with limited clearance above the mattress), and personal preferences when choosing a topper.

Oh, you found a few five and 6-inch mattress toppers? They exist but they're rare.

Mattresses themselves come in five and 6-inch thicknesses, so if that's the thickness you need, you might consider getting a new mattress instead.

RV Specific Mattress Topper?

Do you have to get a mattress topper specifically for an RV? Nope. Any topper will do. There's nothing special about an RV mattress except that some come in 'RV sizes.' But even if you have an odd-shaped or sized RV mattress, a topper can easily be cut down to shape or size if needed.

Let's get down to figuring out how thick your mattress topper should be.

2-Inch Mattress Toppers

The two-inch topper is generally the thinnest you're likely to find.

If you enjoy the solid sensation of your RV bed but wish to enhance bodily support slightly, opt for a 2-inch mattress topper.

Keep in mind that although a 2-inch pad can enhance support, it may not provide a drastic improvement.

ViscoSoft memory foam RV mattress topper


So if you have an old, saggy mattress, the greater the thickness of your topper, the more noticeable the change will be.

Anything under 2 inches isn't going to do much for you besides give you a little fluff.

3-Inch Mattress Toppers

An extra inch can change a lot, and a 3-inch thick mattress topper provides more thickness.

Depending on the material and if it's soft or firm, it can give you better comfort and support.

It can also help fix issues with an older mattress, but this depends on the kind of topper you pick.

If you have a latex mattress and want memory foam on top, a 3-inch memory foam topper is a good choice.

It can make your mattress feel more luxurious or just a little more supportive.

4-Inch Mattress Toppers

The top end of the mattress topper thickness range is 4 inches.

A 4-inch topper is an excellent choice for those needing a significant support boost while sleeping.

These 4-inch thick mattress toppers are ideal for side sleepers and heavier individuals, as they offer extra comfort for pressure points, helping achieve a restful night's sleep.

Be sure, with any size topper, you have room to get that slide in or the bed into the ceiling properly.

Also, consider the weight if you have storage under the mattress and need to lift the mattress and topper to get to it.

Topper Thickness Considerations

Now, let's dive into some of the factors that will influence your decision.

Here are the main points to consider when looking at the thickness of your camper bed topper:

  • Weight
  • Purpose of the Topper
  • Foam Density
  • Type
  • Mattress Condition
  • Sleeping Position
  • Clearance

Weight

Heavier people generally need a thicker mattress topper for extra cushioning and support.

A 3-inch or 4-inch mattress topper for your RV can help distribute your weight more evenly and relieve pressure points, especially for side sleepers.

However, if you're lighter, a 2-inch mattress topper might be all you need for a comfortable sleeping surface.

Avocado RV mattress family

Purpose

Needless to say, if your mattress is too hard and you want a softer feel, you'll need a soft topper.

If your mattress is too soft and you want more support, you'll also want a thicker and more supportive topper.

Remember what the topper is meant to do for you before you choose.

Density

Materials make a big difference.

A feather topper will be soft and cozy, providing almost no support.

Meanwhile, a memory foam topper will be dense and thick, providing more support.

Type

Now let's discuss the different types of toppers available.

Memory foam mattress toppers are popular for their pressure-relieving properties and ability to conform to your body's shape.

However, they can also trap heat, which may be a concern if you sweat at night. Gel memory foam toppers can help dissipate heat for a cooler sleep.

Latex mattress toppers are another excellent choice, offering a balance of support and comfort.

Natural latex toppers are also eco-friendly and come with organic cotton covers.

Consider wool or feather toppers if you're looking for something more luxurious.

They offer a soft, cushioned feel and can be pretty durable.

Mattress Condition

Of course, personal comfort and preferences play a significant role in deciding the right RV mattress topper thickness.

If you love the feel of a plush pillow top or have an existing mattress that's too firm, a thick mattress topper can give you that extra layer of comfort.

On the other hand, if your current mattress is sagging or you prefer a medium-firm sleeping surface, a thinner topper might be all you need to improve your sleep.

Sleeping Position

Your sleeping position is also crucial when selecting the best mattress topper.

Side sleepers typically need thicker toppers to cushion their hips and shoulders, while stomach sleepers might prefer a thinner topper to prevent their spine from arching.

Back sleepers can usually find a happy medium with a 2-inch or 3-inch mattress topper.

Of course, personal comfort and preferences play a significant role in deciding the right RV mattress topper thickness.

If you love the feel of a plush pillow top or have an existing mattress that's too firm, a thick mattress topper can give you that extra layer of comfort.

On the other hand, if your current mattress is sagging or you prefer a medium-firm sleeping surface, a thinner topper might be all you need to improve your sleep.

Two kids on bunk bed with grandma standing next to it

Clearance

If your RV camper has a bedroom slide-out, ensure the topper won't hinder its movement.

And unfortunately, if you have a Murphy bed, you likely won't be able to use a mattress topper due to the folding mechanism.

Lastly, if you have a bed that rises to the ceiling, can you still walk under it if it's 2-4 inches thicker?

And are you able to put the locking mechanism in place?

Don't make the mistake of not thinking of these things when considering how thick of a mattress topper to get for your recreational vehicle.

Other Considerations

When shopping for a new mattress topper and its thickness, watch for CertiPUR-US certifications.

They indicate that the topper is made without harmful chemicals and meets strict environmental standards.

Additionally, a twin-sized topper could be useful if you have a partner with a different mattress firmness preference than you.

Getting one for just one side could be a workable solution.

And before you hit "Add to Cart" at Amazon or wherever remember to consider your RV's unique features so you don't get an RV mattress topper thickness that is too thick for your rig.

Once you've made your purchase, remember to protect your investment with a mattress protector. It keeps your topper clean and extends its lifespan.

Ready To Buy?

If you are ready to make a purchase, see our buying an RV mattress topper page to learn what some of your options are.

How Thick Should A Mattress Topper Be? - Conclusion

So how thick should a mattress topper be? When choosing the right RV mattress topper thickness, there are a lot of considerations to keep in mind for getting the right one.

You should consider your weight, sleeping position, plush/comfort level, thickness limitations, and personal preferences, among other things.

Whether you need a 2-inch, 3-inch, or 4-inch mattress topper, there's an option for improved sleep with RV mattress toppers that fit the bill.

If you get the right RV mattress topper thickness, you can easily make your camper feel like a cozy home away from home.

Happy trails, and sleep well!

Kelly Headshot

I dedicated myself to living the full-time RV life for over 6.5 years, immersing myself in the unique quirks and joys of the boondocking lifestyle and gaining a wealth of knowledge and experience along the way. In December 2020, my business partner and I made the transition to part-time RVing, but in January 2023, we hit the road once again, this time in our trusty vans. My mission is to help others embrace the RVing lifestyle with confidence and excitement, armed with the knowledge and resources needed to make the most of their adventures. I believe that the more you know, the more you can truly appreciate and enjoy the freedom and flexibility of the open road.

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