Will a Full Size Mattress Fit In an SUV? Practical Guide & FAQs

Wondering “Will a Full Size Mattress Fit In An SUV” before you pick one up or move house? You’re not alone. Many people try to squeeze a full mattress into their vehicle, only to discover too late that the angles, doors, and seat layout make things more complicated than they expected.

This guide walks through typical mattress and SUV dimensions, what usually works, what usually doesn’t, and how to tell before you start loading.

What Are the Dimensions of a Full Size Mattress?

A standard full size mattress (also called a double) typically measures:

  • Width: 54 inches
  • Length: 75 inches
  • Thickness: 8–14 inches, depending on the type of mattress

Thickness affects how flexible it is. Thinner, all-foam mattresses are usually easier to bend slightly and maneuver, while thicker hybrid or innerspring mattresses are stiffer and harder to fit into tight openings.

Will a Full Size Mattress Fit In An SUV in General?

In many cases, yes, a full size mattress can fit in an SUV, but it strongly depends on:

  • The interior cargo length with rear seats folded down
  • The width between the wheel wells
  • The size and shape of the rear hatch opening
  • Whether the mattress can flex a bit without damage

Compact SUVs often struggle to handle a full mattress lying flat. Mid-size and larger SUVs have a better chance, especially when the front passenger seat can be moved or reclined to add extra length.

A full mattress might:

  • Fit flat and fully inside (ideal)
  • Fit at a slight angle with one end raised
  • Not fit at all without bending or partially keeping the hatch open

How Do I Measure My SUV to Know for Sure?

To answer “Will a Full Size Mattress Fit In An SUV” for your specific vehicle, measure these three key areas:

  1. Cargo Length

    • Fold down the rear seats completely.
    • Measure from the inside of the closed hatch to the back of the front seats.
    • If possible, slide or recline the front passenger seat and measure again.
    • You ideally want at least 75 inches of usable length.

  2. Cargo Width

    • Measure the narrowest point near the floor, often between the wheel wells.
    • You need at least 54 inches of width, or the ability to angle the mattress if width is slightly less.

  3. Hatch Opening Size

    • Measure the height and width of the hatch opening.
    • Even if the mattress fits inside, it has to fit through the door at some angle.

📝 Tip: Use painter’s tape or a piece of string cut to 54" and 75" to quickly visualize the footprint inside the cargo area.

Do I Need to Bend or Fold the Mattress?

Many people consider bending the mattress to make it fit. Whether that’s possible depends on the type:

  • All-foam mattresses tend to be more flexible and can sometimes be gently bent or arched to slide in, as long as it’s not sharp folding.
  • Innerspring and hybrid mattresses are usually stiffer and may not handle bending well. Trying to fold them can damage springs or materials.

If you do need to bend slightly:

  • Avoid a tight crease in the middle.
  • Keep the bend as smooth and gradual as possible.
  • Limit the time it stays bent.

Can I Transport a Full Mattress on the Roof of an SUV?

If it will not fit inside, some people consider the roof. A few important points:

  • The mattress must be securely tied down with strong straps or rope.
  • Airflow can make a mattress act like a sail, so loose or light tie-downs are risky.
  • Check your SUV’s roof load guidelines before placing heavy items on top.

This method is possible, but usually more challenging and less stable than transporting the mattress inside the vehicle.

What About Folding Seats and Different SUV Sizes?

Compact SUVs

  • Often have shorter cargo lengths.
  • A full mattress may need to be angled diagonally or partially bent.
  • Check if the front passenger seat can slide or recline forward to gain a few extra inches.

Mid-Size SUVs

  • More likely to allow a full mattress to lie flat or nearly flat with the rear seats down.
  • Some models allow you to push the mattress slightly between the front seats.

Large SUVs

  • Commonly have enough room for a full mattress to fit flat and fully inside, especially with third-row seats folded down if present.

Each vehicle is different, so measurements are more reliable than assumptions based on size labels.

✔️ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points consumers should understand about “Will a Full Size Mattress Fit In An SUV”:

  • A full mattress is usually 54" wide x 75" long.
  • Many mid-size and large SUVs can fit a full mattress with seats folded down.
  • Compact SUVs may only fit a full mattress angled or slightly bent, if at all.
  • Always measure cargo length, width, and hatch opening before transporting.
  • Foam mattresses are generally easier to maneuver than spring or hybrid models.
  • If it does not fit inside, a full mattress may be strapped to the roof, but only if it can be secured safely.

How Can I Make Transporting a Full Mattress Easier?

A few simple steps can make moving a mattress in an SUV smoother:

  • Use a mattress bag or cover to protect it from dirt and snags.
  • Clear out the cargo area so the mattress can slide in without obstruction.
  • Tilt and rotate the mattress as you load it to find the right angle through the hatch.
  • Consider a folded or compressed mattress (if it originally came rolled or boxed) for easier transport, following any guidance it came with.

With the actual measurements of your SUV and a clear sense of full mattress dimensions, you can usually answer “Will a Full Size Mattress Fit In An SUV” confidently before moving day. Taking a few minutes to measure and plan can prevent last‑minute surprises and help you choose the safest, simplest way to transport your mattress.