What is the best bedding for campervans?

Getting a great night’s sleep is important on any campervan adventure, and choosing the right bedding is the first step to sweet dreams on the road.

Here, we discuss the best bedding for campers. We’ll look at the different types of bedding available and consider whether duvets or sleeping bags are best for campervans. Plus, we’ve got some tips for choosing the best bedding for your home on wheels.

Types of bedding for campervans

Before deciding on the best bedding for your campervan, it’s helpful to look at the different types of campervan bedding you can choose from:

• Standard duvets: A standard duvet, like the one you have on your bed at home, might seem like the best option. However, they can take up a lot of space and, depending on the season, may not provide the warmth you need for sleeping in your camper. They might be too warm in summer too.
• Campervan duvets: Designed for use in campers, campervan duvets have been cleverly created to save space while ensuring a comfortable night’s sleep. Campervan duvets come in a range of sizes to find the perfect fit for your vehicle.
• Sleeping bags: Sleeping bags are another suitable campervan bedding option, and they can be conveniently rolled up and stored away when not in use. With different thicknesses available, you can choose a sleeping bag that suits the temperatures you’ll be camping in.
• Mattresses: Campervan mattresses aren’t typically known for being particularly comfortable, often because they tend to be quite thin. You can make your campervan mattress more appealing by adding a mattress topper, inflatable sleep mat, or a bespoke foam mattress (depending on your budget).
• Fitted sheets: A fitted sheet will help to create a soft sleeping surface and keep your mattress clean. Moisture-wicking materials are best as they’ll keep you cool and dry throughout the night in warmer weather.
• Blankets: Blankets are a campervan staple. You can use them as extra bedding, wrap them around you when sitting outside in the evenings, and sit on them to enjoy picnics, read books, or enjoy the sun.
  
  

Sleeping bags vs duvets in a campervan

It’s likely down to personal preference as to whether a sleeping bag or duvet makes the best campervan bedding. While some people like the freedom of a duvet, others prefer the convenience of a sleeping bag. Here are some of the pros and cons of each option:

Sleeping bag for campervan pros

• Compact and easy to store, making them especially ideal for smaller campervans
• Different temperature ratings are available, so you can always find one to suit the climate you’ll be travelling in
• You don’t need additional sheets or blankets, making sleeping bags a great all-in-one campervan bedding solution
• You and your travel companions can have sleeping bags to suit your needs rather than having to share with someone else
• They can be taken outside for evening drinks, to watch the sunset, or for stargazing
  
  

Sleeping bag for campervans cons

• They don’t provide a luxurious sleeping experience, and it doesn’t feel like sleeping at home when you use one
• Sleeping bags can be restrictive which is particularly problematic if you move around a lot in your sleep or get claustrophobic
• They’re less convenient than a duvet for couples who like to share a bed
• Moisture can get trapped in sleeping bags which may lead to them becoming damp and difficult to keep clean
• Sleeping bags can be tricky to wash and take a long time to dry which can be inconvenient when out on the road
  
  

Using a duvet in a campervan pros

• Duvets create a relaxed, comfortable sleeping experience that makes you feel like you’re at home or in a hotel
• They are ideal for couples who like to sleep alongside each other without a sleeping bag barrier
• There’s room for movement in the night without feeling like you’re restricted
• Duvets are easy to layer up with blankets that can simply be laid over the top
• The different duvet cover options mean you can choose colours and designs that suit the aesthetic of your campervan
  
  

Using a duvet in a campervan cons

• Duvets take up much more space than sleeping bags as it’s difficult to roll them up compactly when not in use
• It’s tricky to take a duvet outside for sunset watching or stargazing as they’re very bulky
• They can get bunched up, tangled, or slide off the bed when used in a small space, causing you to get cold or wake up in the night
• They’re not a particularly convenient option for solo travellers who might prefer a space-saving option
• You might need to layer them up with multiple blankets in colder months which will also need to be stored in your campervan
  
  

How to store bedding in a campervan

Storing bedding in a campervan can be difficult as space is limited, and items need to be kept clean, dry, and easily accessible. Bedding storage solutions in a campervan can include:

• Under bed storage: Duvets, pillows, mattress toppers, and blankets
• Overhead cabinets: Sheets, pillowcases, lightweight blankets, and sleeping bags
• Bench storage: Duvet or sleeping bag
• Cargo nets and hammocks: Lightweight bedding, blankets, and pillows
• Compression bags: Seasonal bedding or spare duvets

Alternatively, you could use your bedding as décor and you won’t need to store it. Choose attractive duvet covers, blankets, throws, and pillows to create a space where you can relax at any time of day.

Tips for choosing bedding for your campervan

When it comes to choosing your campervan bedding, consider these tips to ensure you purchase items that are practical, convenient, and comfortable:

• Choose materials that are suitable for the season you’ll be camping in – for example a 4-season duvet or insulated sleeping bag for winter or lightweight, moisture wicking bedding for the summer
• Think about how you’ll store your bedding and the space you’ll need to do this
• Avoid bedding that’s difficult and time-consuming to wash and dry, like down filled duvets and thick woollen blankets
• Opt for bedding that matches the aesthetic of your campervan if you think you’ll leave it on display rather than storing it away everyday
  
  

Specialist campervan insurance through Ripe

Now you know how to choose the best bedding for your campervan, you might want to consider specialist campervan insurance.

Specialist campervan insurance through Ripe can cover your campervan for theft, accidental damage, fire, and flood damage, as well as offer public liability insurance, equipment cover, and more.

Get an online quote today.