Who doesn’t love a great family or friend road trip? There’s something about the RV life that simply begs to be shared. But once you begin adding extra RVers to your normal travel group, space can start getting tight — especially if you’re pushing against your RV’s standard sleeping capacity. But this is exactly the kind of challenge we campers love to tackle. And yes, we’ve got some ideas for you that should come in handy if you’re looking to add more sleep space to your camper.
Rest assured, whether you need extra sleeping areas for kids, friends, or extended family, almost all RVs can be creatively modified to maximize space. So let’s explore a range of clever options — from fold-out beds to portable sleeping solutions — to ensure everyone gets a good night’s sleep without sacrificing comfort or functionality.
1. Upgrade to Sofa Beds and Convertible Dinettes
Replacing a standard sofa with a fold-out bed gives you an easy-to-use sleeping area without taking up additional space. Many RVers also upgrade their dinettes to models that transform into beds by lowering the table and rearranging the cushions. These dual-purpose solutions are ideal for compact RVs where maximizing space is key.
Pro Tip: Opt for sofas with memory foam mattresses to enhance guest comfort. For dinettes, consider cushions with water-resistant covers to protect against spills.
Expansion Idea: Adding a sleeper sofa with storage underneath can offer even more functionality, providing space to stash linens and pillows. Similarly, you can find fold-out dinette sets that convert faster with fewer cushion adjustments, minimizing setup time when you have tired travelers.
2. Install Collapsible Bunk Beds or a Loft Area
Collapsible bunk beds are a great space-saving solution. They fold neatly against the wall during the day, leaving plenty of room for activities. For RVs with higher ceilings, installing a loft bed adds a tucked-away sleeping space for kids or adventurous guests. Toy haulers and Class A motorhomes with raised ceilings are perfect candidates for loft installations.
Pro Tip: Use lightweight ladders or step stools to provide safe and easy access to lofts or upper bunks.
Expansion Idea: Consider adding privacy curtains around bunks or loft areas to create personal space. Some RVers install bunk beds with built-in storage cubbies or USB ports for added convenience, making them cozy, tech-friendly sleeping spaces.
3. Flip Down Murphy Beds and Convertible Front Seats
Murphy beds are popular because they fold up against the wall, creating open space during the day. These beds offer the benefit of a traditional mattress without permanently occupying floor space. In motorhomes, front captain’s chairs can be converted into temporary beds by using a board or cot between them — perfect for shorter stays or kids.
Pro Tip: Install a locking mechanism on Murphy beds to ensure they stay secure during travel.
Expansion Idea: If you install a Murphy bed, consider integrating shelving or a desk that folds on the underside for even more utility. Some RVers take it a step further by adding fold-out nightstands that swing into place when the bed is lowered.
4. Max Out Inflatable and Flexible Options
Air mattresses provide a flexible solution, ideal for guests or outdoor use. When deflated, they take up minimal storage space. Fold-out lounge chairs can double as single beds, fitting easily into smaller spaces. For those towing trailers with pickup trucks, the truck bed can serve as an extra sleeping area using an air mattress or sleeping pad, ideal for summer camping.
Pro Tip: Choose a self-inflating air mattress to reduce setup time and store it in a protective case to prevent punctures.
Expansion Idea: Consider adding a truck bed tent for privacy and protection if you plan to sleep outside the RV.
5. Hang a Hammock — Indoors or Out
Hammocks provide a lightweight, versatile sleeping option, both inside and outside the RV. They’re perfect for warm climates or adventurous guests who want to sleep under the stars. Some RVs have built-in anchor points to accommodate indoor hammock setups, adding an extra bed without taking up permanent space.
Pro Tip: Store a compact hammock stand in your RV for times when trees or other anchor points aren’t available.
Expansion Idea: Consider using a two-person hammock to increase sleeping capacity. Adding mosquito netting and a rain fly to outdoor hammocks can make them even more versatile, extending their use in various weather conditions.
6. Embrace Slide-Out Bed Extensions
RVs with slide-outs provide a perfect opportunity to expand sleeping areas. Some RVs come with couches, recliners, desks, or other options that take up a slide-out, and this is the perfect location to add sleeping through one of the previously mentioned conversions.
Pro Tip: Add rubber or fabric seals to your slide-outs to prevent drafts from coming in, especially during colder weather.
Expansion Idea: Use slide-out spaces for multi-use setups — such as adding a slide-out dining area that converts into a bed at night. This dual-purpose setup maximizes both sleeping and dining comfort.
7. Bring Portable Bed Platforms
Portable cots are an excellent solution for temporary guests. They are lightweight, easy to set up, and can be stored compactly when not in use. Folding bed platforms are another space-efficient option, providing added support for air mattresses or sleeping pads.
Pro Tip: Keep a set of travel-friendly bedding with portable cots for a quick and comfortable sleeping solution.
Expansion Idea: Choose cots with built-in organizers or side pockets for added convenience. Some RVers opt for cots with mosquito netting for outdoor use, making them versatile for both indoor and outdoor sleeping.
8. Tack on a Tent Extension
When indoor sleeping arrangements fill up, consider adding a tent, tent extension, or canopy to your RV. While regular tents store and are pretty universal, some tents attach directly to RV awnings, providing a protected space for extra sleepers. This setup is perfect for warm-weather camping and can also serve as a gear storage area. Also, if you’re looking for how to add more sleep space to your camper, most solutions end up subdivided your current RV space. What’s beautiful about this is that it literally adds space instead of subtracting it.
Pro Tip: Choose a tent that’s easy to set up, and if you want the RV awning version, make sure to research that the option you choose fits your RV and awning.
Expansion Idea: Add portable heaters or fans to make the tent extension more comfortable during temperature fluctuations. Some RVers also add inflatable mattresses inside the tent for a more luxurious outdoor sleeping experience.
Bonus Section: Kid-Friendly Sleeping Spaces
Traveling with kids requires thoughtful planning, especially when it comes to sleeping arrangements. Creating comfortable, fun sleeping spaces can make the journey smoother for everyone. Also, kids do have an inherent advantage — they’re kid-size. So whatever space you have goes further. Another advantage is that kids are usually more eager to embrace the adventure factor of an unconventional sleeping space. When you’re looking how to add more sleep space to your camper, those kinds of things add up. With that being said, here are a few suggestions for young kids.
- Portable Cribs or Pack-and-Play. These are essential for families with toddlers, providing a familiar place for little ones to sleep. They fit well in slide-outs or closets.
- Sleeping Cubbies. Use under-table spaces or small nooks to create fun sleeping cubbies for young children. Decorate them with pillows and fairy lights to make them extra cozy.
- Hanging Bunk Pods. These lightweight fabric pods hang from the ceiling or bunk bed frame, providing a unique sleeping area for kids. They save space and are a big hit with adventurous little ones.
Pro Tip: Create a bedtime routine to help kids adjust to sleeping in new environments. Small touches, like favorite blankets or bedtime stories, can make all the difference.
Want to Add More Sleep Space to Your Camper? It’s All About Attitude
Creating extra sleeping space in your RV doesn’t have to be complicated. As shown above, there are lots of ways to add more sleep space to your camper. From fold-out beds and loft areas to air mattresses and outdoor hammocks, there are countless ways to make your RV comfortable for guests and family. It’s just about thinking through what work for you and your RV. Then getting after it. With thoughtful planning and a few smart upgrades, your RV can become a welcoming home for everyone — no matter how many people hit the road with you. (Just make sure you’re stocked up for everything else you need for a great night’s sleep in your RV.) Safe travels and sweet dreams!
