Choosing the right motorhome bed layout can make all the difference to your experience on the road. Whether you’re planning to travel solo, as a couple, or with the whole family, having a comfortable, practical sleeping setup is key to feeling truly at home in your motorhome.
So, what are the different motorhome bed layouts? Let’s take a look at some of the most popular bed layouts and some of the Avida models that do them best.
Island Beds: Comfort Meets Convenience
Island beds are a favourite for many motorhome owners, especially those who value comfort and convenience above all else. Positioned in the centre of the bedroom area, this fixed bed layout offers access from both sides, making it easy to get in and out without disturbing your partner. You’ll also appreciate how simple it is to make the bed or grab something from the cupboards without having to contort yourself.
For couples who enjoy having their own space and want to keep the peace for nighttime visits to the bathroom, or prefer a layout that feels like a traditional bedroom, island beds are ideal. They’re one of the most common layouts you’ll find in full-size motorhomes, and one of the most frequently used here at Avida.
If you’re in the market for an island bed motorhome, models like our Longreach large motorhome, or the Esperance 2-6 berth motorhome offer a spacious layout with a comfortable island bed, perfect for those who want to stretch out and enjoy the luxury of a true home-away-from-home. Our new Beechworth solar motorhome also has an island bed layout option.
The only drawback to island beds is they do take up a bit more floor space. But if comfort is your top priority, it’s a small price to pay.
Corner Beds: Practical and Space-Saving
Corner beds provide many of the comforts of an island bed without taking up as much room. Sometimes also called a French bed, a corner bed is positioned against one wall. This layout saves valuable space while still offering a permanently made bed that’s always ready for a good night’s sleep. The trade-off is that only one side of the bed is easily accessible, which may not suit everyone, and could be the cause of marital strife if one of you has a weak bladder.
However, the added floor space makes it a great choice for smaller motorhomes or anyone looking to maximise their living area. If you like the idea of having a cosy, dedicated sleeping space without sacrificing too much room, a corner bed layout could be just what you need.
Drop-Down Beds: Maximum Flexibility and Style
If you want to make the most of your motorhome’s space, drop-down beds are a brilliant option that have really taken off in smaller motorhomes in recent years. During the day, the bed is neatly stored up against the ceiling, leaving your lounge or dining area free for relaxing, eating, or entertaining. At night, it lowers into place with the push of a button, giving you a ready-made bed in seconds.
This setup is ideal if you love socialising in a small motorhome or campervan, or simply want the freedom to transform your living area whenever you please. At Avida, we’ve been pioneering the drop-down bed for several years, and it can now be found throughout our range, from the Bruny drop-down bed motorhome to the Leura 2 berth motorhome, as well as the Escape small campervan and Diversion luxury small campervan.
While drop-down beds may not have quite the same home-like feel as a fixed bed, the added versatility more than makes up for it.
Lounge Bed Layouts: Social and Adaptable
Lounge bed layouts are perfect if you’re the type who loves a flexible space. By day, you can enjoy a spacious lounge area for socialising, dining, or just relaxing with a good book. By night, the same area can be converted into a comfortable bed, usually by dropping the table and laying an extra bolster on top.
This layout works particularly well if you’re travelling with family or friends, as it allows you to make the most of your motorhome’s space. It’s also ideal if you like to entertain on the road, as the lounge area is always ready to host guests. This style of layout is also ideal for solo travellers who prefer having more living space to stretch out and relax.
The best part about lounge bed layouts is their versatility. They offer a smart solution for making your motorhome feel both open and welcoming without sacrificing your comfort. If you’re looking for a setup that allows you to tailor your living space to your daily needs, this is one layout worth considering.
Single Beds: Practicality and Personal Space
If you’re travelling solo or with a friend, single beds can be a surprisingly practical choice. They offer personal space and make it easy to get up in the night without disturbing your travel partner. Single bed layouts are also popular with couples who enjoy a bit of extra room on warmer nights or who prefer not to share a double bed.
Fixed single beds are also useful for providing extra storage space and a central aisle for easy movement around the motorhome. While not as common as other setups, it’s a great option if you value comfort and practicality. Our new Beechworth motorhome also has an option for single beds.
Over-Cab Beds: Making the Most of Space
When travelling with the family, over-cab beds can be a lifesaver. Also known as luton beds, these raised sleeping areas are positioned above the driver’s cab, making use of extra space, and are great for kids or anyone who doesn’t mind climbing up to bed at the end of the day.
Although most motorhomes that feature over-cab beds have them as an additional sleeping space rather than a primary one, there are some models out there that feature an over-cab bed for the main bed. This leaves the rest of the motorhome free for living and dining, even when everyone’s settled in for the night.
You’ll usually find over-cab beds in larger motorhomes designed for families, but they can be used in almost any motorhome, so long as there is space for them. Our Birdsville motorhome with slide out, for example, is available in an over-cab bed configuration, despite being one of our smaller models.
Explore Award-Winning Australian Motorhomes at Avida
Ultimately, the right bed layout depends on your travel style and what makes you feel most comfortable on the road. If you prefer a more homely setup with plenty of space to move around, the island bed is a fantastic choice. But if you’re after a more compact model and looking for flexibility in how you use your space, a drop-down bed offers a sleek, modern solution.
If you’re still in the early stages of your journey, we recommend visiting some motorhome dealers and trade shows and getting inside as many different models as you can. You’d be surprised at how much you can change your mind once you’ve had a chance to feel what different layouts can offer.
At Avida, we’ve been manufacturing award-winning, Australian-made motorhomes for 60 years, and have luxury motorhomes in a range of different layouts to suit your lifestyle. Explore our range of motorhomes for sale and campervans for sale today, and start planning your next adventure with Avida.
