How to Build a Campervan Bed? See Our Tips

There’s something deeply satisfying about turning an empty van into a cozy, functional home. And at the heart of every great campervan build is a bed that actually works — not just a slab of wood and a mattress, but a well-thought-out space that lets you sleep well, store your gear, and live comfortably on the road. If you're planning your van conversion and wondering how to design a bed that’s comfortable, practical, and built to last, you're in the right place.

The Best Campervan Bed Systems

There are many bed systems available on the market for campervans. Below, we explore some of the best options to help you maximize comfort and space in your van conversion.

1. Fixed Platform Bed

A classic for a reason. A fixed platform bed is simple, solid, and doesn’t require any daily setup. Once it’s in, it’s done — no folding, sliding, or rearranging. The real beauty of this layout is what goes underneath: plenty of space for bikes, gear bins, water tanks, or even a slide-out kitchen. If you're traveling with bulky equipment or need storage you can access from the back of the van, this is a no-brainer. Just keep in mind that it takes up a good chunk of floor space, so it works best in longer vans like a Sprinter or Ford Transit.

2. Pull-Out Bed

Need your van to do more than sleep? A pull-out bed gives you flexibility — a bed platform that tucks away during the day and slides out at night. It’s a great fit for smaller vans or anyone who wants room to move around inside. The setup typically involves two stacked sections of plywood, with the top sliding out on rails or slats to double the length. Add cushions or a foldable mattress on top, and you’ve got a real comfortable bed at night. Just make sure your sliding mechanism is sturdy — heavy-duty drawer slides or waxed wood rails work well — and consider adding stops to keep it secure while driving.

3. Folding Bed or Table Bed

This one’s all about maximizing the use of space. During the day, you’ve got a bench seat and a van table — maybe for working, eating, or just relaxing. At night, the setup transforms into a bed platform by folding down the backrest or rearranging cushions. It’s like RV furniture, but tailored to your layout. Ideal for couples or solo travelers who want multifunctional furniture without committing to a full-time bed frame. It takes a little more engineering, but the payoff is a space that adapts to your day-to-day van life.

4. Rock and Roll Bed

You’ve probably seen these in old VW camper vans. A rock and roll bed is a factory-made, fold-down seat that turns into a bed with one smooth motion — no fussing with separate parts. It mounts directly to the floor of the van and is often crash-tested, which makes it a popular choice for those carrying passengers or traveling with kids. It’s not the cheapest option, but it’s sleek, safe, and convenient. Plus, it gives your camper that classic retro feel. Great for those doing a camper van conversion but don’t want to go full custom on the sleeping setup.

5. Hammock Bed

It might sound odd at first, but yes — a hammock bed is a real, viable solution in tight spaces, especially in a small campervan or minimalist diy camper van build. It’s lightweight, quick to set up, and surprisingly comfortable if hung properly. Hammocks are also great for airflow and ventilation, especially in warm climates. You can hang it across the width of the van or from front to back, depending on anchor points. Some people even use it as a lower bed in bunk setups for kids. And the best part? It rolls up when not in use, leaving your entire living space free during the day.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Before you cut your first piece of plywood, make sure you’ve got the essentials. Here's what most DIYers use when building a camper van bed:

Tools

Circular saw or jigsaw
Drill and screws (wood screws, decking screws for stronger hold)
Tape measure, square, level
Sander or sanding block (for smoothing edges)
Clamps
Socket wrench if you use bolts to mount to the floor of the van

Materials

¾" plywood (Baltic birch if you want durability and smooth finish)
2x4 or 2x2 studs for framing
Brackets or angle braces for structural support
Mattress or memory foam cut to size
Heavy-duty drawer slides (for a pull-out bed)
Hinges (for folding beds or hidden storage compartments)
Furniture paint or sealant (especially important for moisture control)

How to Build an RV Bed Frame (That Actually Works in a Van)

So, what’s the difference between a home bed frame and one inside a camper van? Everything. You’re working with curved van walls, limited square footage, and the need to keep things secure while driving.

We prepared for you a general process to build a bed frame for a van:

Measure Twice, Cut Once
Consider the width of your van — can you sleep across the width, or do you need a lengthwise setup? Sprinters and Ford Transits with a flare installed often allow for sideways sleeping, saving precious living space.
Design the Frame to Fit Your Needs
Want a fixed platform bed with massive under-bed cabinets? Or do you prefer a table bed setup for extra seating? Sketch it out. You can even use SketchUp or IKEA’s planning tool for layout ideas.
Build the Platform
Create a sturdy rectangular frame to fit the layout. Mount the bed frame onto vertical legs or along studs secured to the walls of the van.
Secure It Properly
Use brackets, screws, or bolts to anchor the structure. The durability of your build matters on bumpy roads.

If you want to save time hunting for the right materials and focus more on building your bed and designing your living space, check out Rover Vans’ offer.

How to Build a Pull-Out Bed for a Campervan?

A pull-out bed is a clever way to keep a flat sleeping surface at night while reclaiming space during the day. It’s ideal for small campervans, diy van builds, or those who want to avoid committing to a fixed platform bed.

Basic Pull-Out Bed Structure:

Two sections: one fixed, one sliding
The sliding part rests on rails or hardwood slats that glide
During the day, it tucks under to form a bench seat or cabinet
At night, pull it out and place the mattress on top

Pro tip: Use high-quality drawer slides or simply waxed wooden rails if you want a quieter, lower-maintenance version. Avoid cheap metal runners unless they’re rated for weight.

Storage Solutions Under Your Campervan Bed

Storage space is gold in any camper van conversion. Here’s how to maximize it:

Under-bed compartments with sliding drawers
Hinged lids on top of bed platforms for bulkier gear
Under-bed cabinets that open from the back of your van
Add a false floor to hide valuables (tip: line with foam for stealth)

Always consider easy access when designing underneath the bed spaces. No one likes unpacking everything just to reach one tool.

Campervan Mattress and Comfort Tips

You can have the best bed frame, but if your mattress is bad — your whole trip will be, too. What works best:

4”+ high-density memory foam
Foldable or tri-fold mattress for removable bed setups
Custom-cut foam to fit curves and back of your van
Ventilated slats or a Dry-Mat underlay to prevent moisture and mold buildup

Bonus tip: Add a wool or bamboo mattress topper for year-round comfort and natural insulation.

Final Thoughts

Building your bed is one of the most rewarding parts of a van build. It’s your place to sleep, store gear, and relax after a day of hiking or driving. Whether you're building a slick aluminum bed for your sprinter van, crafting a diy camper van bed, or just tossing a hammock in the back of your van, make it your own.

Because at the end of the day, nothing beats lying on a comfortable bed at night, knowing you built it yourself — one screw at a time.

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FAQ

How much does it cost to build a pull-out bed in a van?

Expect to spend between $150 to $500, depending on materials. Plywood, drawer slides, a decent mattress, and some paint or sealant are your main costs.

How much space do I need for a sliding campervan bed?

At least 24" depth when retracted and about 70"–75" fully extended. The total depends on your van layout and whether you're sleeping across the width or lengthwise.

How long does it take to build a bed for a campervan conversion?

For most people, 1–2 weekends is realistic. Give yourself time to sand, seal, and double-check fit and function.

Can I build a campervan bed on a tight budget?

Absolutely. Repurposed wood, a futon mattress, and even a clever DIY hammock bed can work if you’re handy. The key is to opt for a DIY bed that suits your actual needs — not just looks cool on Instagram.