Imagine waking up after a night in the great outdoors, not on a cramped, narrow mattress, but in the sprawling comfort of a king-sized bed. For many, the dream of RV life is hindered by the fear of poor sleep. However, the era of sacrificing comfort for adventure is over. Today’s market offers a fantastic selection of travel trailers with king beds, allowing you to bring the luxury of a spacious bedroom to your favorite campsite.
This guide covers everything you need to know, from understanding RV king bed sizes to exploring the best models and floor plans available.
Understanding the “RV King” vs. A Residential King
Before you start shopping, it’s crucial to understand a key distinction in the RV world. A standard residential king mattress measures 76 inches wide by 80 inches long. However, due to space constraints in a moving vehicle, most RV manufacturers use a slightly smaller “RV King” size .
An RV King typically measures 72 inches wide by 80 inches long . Some models might even be a bit narrower. While this is a few inches less than a standard home mattress, it still offers a significant upgrade—about 10 to 12 extra inches of width—compared to a standard RV queen bed, which is usually 60 inches wide . That extra space can make all the difference for couples who want a comfortable, undisturbed night’s sleep. Always check the exact specifications of the mattress in the floor plan you’re considering.
Common Floor Plans for a Travel Trailer with a King Bed
The placement of a king bed significantly impacts a travel trailer’s layout. Here are the most common configurations you’ll find:
Front Bedroom Layout
This classic design places the master suite at the front (the “nose”) of the trailer. This often provides maximum privacy and can include a private entrance to the bathroom . The challenge is that this dedicated space can sometimes reduce the size of the main living area or kitchen.
Rear Bedroom Layout
Placing the bedroom at the back of the trailer is another popular option. This layout often allows for stunning panoramic views through large rear windows . It can also offer more privacy from the living area and kitchen.
Slide-Out King Bed Designs
To maximize space in a more compact trailer, many manufacturers use a slide-out mechanism. When parked, a section of the wall slides out to create a dedicated, spacious bedroom for the king bed, but it retracts for towing, keeping the overall trailer length manageable . While an innovative solution, keep in mind that slide-outs add moving parts that can require maintenance and limit your camping spots if you need space to deploy them.
King Bed with Bunkhouse
For families, a floor plan that combines a private king bed with a dedicated bunkhouse is a game-changer. This layout allows parents to have their own space while the kids sleep in their own area. Many bunkhouse models can sleep six or more people, making them a great rental investment or a perfect solution for larger families . Some are even designed with features like fold-up bottom bunks to create storage for bikes and gear during the day .
Top Travel Trailers with King Beds
Here are some of the best models on the market, showcasing different layouts and features. Remember that specifications can change, so always verify with the manufacturer or dealer.
| Model | Key Feature | Length | Dry Weight | Sleeping Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Forest River Campsite Reserve 26CJ | Massive panoramic windows & electric fireplace | 32’9” | 6,421 lbs | Up to 8 |
| Keystone Cougar 22MLS | Spacious feel in a smaller package with rear kitchen | 26’10” | 5,887 lbs | Up to 4 |
| Grand Design Imagine 2700BS | Couples’ camper with two slides & walk-through bath | 31’8” | 7,180 lbs | 2 |
| Jayco Jay Flight 380DQS | Two-bedroom layout with customizable king option | 26’11” | 8,375 lbs | Up to 8 |
| Forest River Salem Cruise Lite 273QBXL | Innovative “Versa-Tilt” adjustable king bed | 33’5” | 6,028 lbs | Up to 9 |
1. Forest River Campsite Reserve 26CJ
This model is a standout for its luxurious and bright interior. The bedroom features large windows that offer incredible views and let in plenty of natural light . It’s a spacious bunkhouse model with a residential feel, including a fireplace, an outdoor kitchen, and an entertainment center .
2. Keystone Cougar 22MLS
If you want a king bed but prefer to keep your trailer under 27 feet, the Cougar 22MLS is an excellent choice . It cleverly uses a rear kitchen layout to create an open floor plan, making the interior feel much larger than its length suggests. It also features 84″ interior ceilings, adding to the spacious feel .
3. Grand Design Imagine 2700BS
This model is a fantastic choice for couples who prioritize living space over guest capacity. It features a front RV king bed and two slide-outs that open up the rear living area, complete with theater seating . Its focus is on smart packaging and a comfortable, luxurious experience without the complexity of an off-grid expedition vehicle .
4. Jayco Jay Flight 380DQS
The “380DQS” stands for a unique dual-queeen-or-king-and-bunkhouse floor plan. This model is incredibly adaptable, allowing you to choose between a second bedroom with bunks or a queen bed. It’s ideal for families or couples who host guests frequently .
5. Forest River Salem Cruise Lite 273QBXL
One of the most innovative sleep solutions comes from Forest River with their “Versa-Tilt” bed. This allows the king mattress to be tilted up, making it a comfortable position for reading or watching TV, then laid flat when you’re ready to sleep . This model is a great blend of innovation and comfort.
What to Consider Before Buying
A king bed is a luxury, but it’s also a commitment. Here are key factors to consider before making your purchase:
Weight and Tow Vehicle
Adding a king bed often means a larger, heavier trailer. Pay close attention to the trailer’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and hitch weight. For instance, the models listed above have dry weights ranging from over 5,000 lbs to over 8,000 lbs. Ensure your tow vehicle has enough capacity to handle the weight safely.
Clearance and Maneuverability
A king bed requires about 7 to 8 feet of length, and you also need space to move around it. Verify the walkway clearance around the bed. In some smaller trailers, you might find that you have to crawl in from the foot of the bed because the sides are too close to the walls . This can make making the bed a “gymnastics challenge” .
Storage Sacrifices
The extra space taken by a king bed is often gained at the expense of other areas, like closets or kitchen storage . Look for models that compensate with clever storage solutions, like wardrobes on the sides of the bed or under-bed storage.
Is it a True King?
As we mentioned earlier, the dimensions vary. If you prefer a standard residential king mattress, know that you may have to special-order it and it might overhang the RV’s bed platform by a couple of inches on each side .
Final Thoughts: Is a King Bed Worth It?
For many RVers, the answer is a resounding yes. The ability to get a good night’s rest in a spacious, comfortable bed can transform your camping experience . After a long day of hiking or exploring, a king bed provides a true sanctuary.
While it requires careful consideration of your tow vehicle, preferred layout, and campsite limitations, a travel trailer with a king bed offers a level of comfort that makes every journey feel like a luxury getaway. As one happy camper noted, “The king size bed is very comfortable” and it was a highlight of their trip . So, do your research, consider your priorities, and get ready to sleep like royalty under the stars.