What Size Is a RV King Mattress? Dimensions, Variations, and How to Measure

If you’re wondering “What Size Is a RV King Mattress”, you’re likely trying to figure out whether a specific mattress will fit your camper, fifth wheel, or motorhome. RV mattress sizes are different from standard residential sizes, and the term “RV king” can be especially confusing.

This guide breaks down common RV king dimensions, why they vary, and how to be sure you’re choosing the right size for your space.

What Size Is a RV King Mattress, Exactly?

There is no single universal size for an RV king mattress. Instead, several “king-like” sizes are commonly called RV kings. The most common measurements you’ll see are:

*Some RVs are built to fit a standard residential king (76" x 80"), which a few manufacturers also refer to as an “RV king.”

Because of this variation, always check the exact dimensions, not just the size name.

Why Are RV King Mattress Sizes Different from Home Kings?

RV beds are designed around space limitations and floorplans, not just comfort. A full-width residential king often won’t fit inside an RV bedroom, so manufacturers adjust the size to:

• Allow room to walk around the bed
• Clear doors, slide-outs, or cabinets
• Avoid blocking storage or access panels

This is why a typical RV king is narrower than a standard king, and why “short” versions exist. The goal is to give a king-like width or length while still fitting the RV layout.

How Does an RV King Compare to a Standard King Mattress?

Understanding the difference between an RV king and a home king can prevent surprises:

• Standard King (also called Eastern King): about 76" wide x 80" long
• Common RV King: 72" wide x 80" long
• Short RV King: often about 72" wide x 75" long

So an RV king is usually 4 inches narrower than a standard king. A short RV king is also about 5 inches shorter in length.

Key takeaway: A regular king sheet set may be too large or too loose on many RV king mattresses, and a standard king mattress might not fit the platform in your RV.

How Can I Tell What Size My RV King Mattress Is?

Because “RV king” can mean different things, the safest approach is to measure your existing mattress or the bed platform.

Step-by-step measuring:

1. Clear the bed
   Remove bedding, toppers, and pads so you’re measuring only the mattress or platform.

2. Measure width
   Measure from left to right at the widest point. Note the number in inches.

3. Measure length
   Measure from head to foot along the longest point.

4. Check corners and curves
   Some RV beds have rounded corners or cut-outs. If so, measure the longest rectangle that would still fit inside the space.

5. Compare to common RV king sizes
   Match your measurements to the closest standard size (e.g., 72" x 80", 70" x 80", 72" x 75").

📝 Tip: If your measurements fall between sizes, the mattress may be custom or semi-custom. In that case, note the exact dimensions down to the nearest half inch.

Do All RVs Use the Same RV King Size?

No. Even when two RVs both list a “king bed”, they may use different actual dimensions. Variations can depend on:

• RV type (travel trailer, fifth wheel, motorhome, etc.)
• Floorplan and slide-out design
• Age and model year of the RV
• Whether the bed was modified by a previous owner

Because of this, relying only on the RV brochure or model description can be misleading. Measuring is more reliable than model names or labels.

What Should I Consider Before Choosing an RV King Size?

When you’re trying to answer “What Size Is a RV King Mattress” for your specific rig, consider more than just width and length:

• Walkway space: Will you still be able to move comfortably around the bed?
• Slide-outs: Does the mattress need to fold or move when a slide is in?
• Height and thickness: A very thick mattress can make cabinets harder to reach or reduce headroom.
• Bedding fit: Sheets and protectors should match the exact measurements to avoid bunching or slipping.
• Access points: Make sure the mattress won’t block drawers, doors, or under-bed storage.

Are RV King Sheets and Accessories Different?

Many RV owners find that:

• Standard king sheets are often too wide for a 70"–72" RV king
• Fitted sheets may not stay tight on shorter 75" mattresses
• Mattress protectors and toppers need to match the RV king’s specific size to fit correctly

Checking the dimensions on bedding and accessories helps keep everything secure and comfortable.

✔️ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points consumers should understand about What Size Is a RV King Mattress:

• “RV king” is a label, not a single fixed size. The most common dimensions are around 72" x 80", with other variations like 70" x 80" and 72" x 75".
• RV kings are usually narrower than standard kings. A typical RV king is about 4 inches narrower than a home king mattress.
• Always measure your current mattress or platform. Relying only on the name “king” or “RV king” can lead to sizing mistakes.
• Short RV king options exist. These trade some length for better fit in compact spaces.
• Bedding and accessories must match the actual dimensions. Standard king sheets and toppers may not fit an RV king mattress correctly.

Understanding What Size Is a RV King Mattress for your specific RV comes down to one simple habit: measure first, then match those numbers to the closest known RV king size. This helps ensure your mattress fits your space, your bedding fits your mattress, and your RV bedroom remains easy to move around in.