What Size Mattress Fits In A Subaru Forester? (The Best Expert Guide) 2023

The Subaru Forester, a steadfast companion for many adventure seekers and road warriors, raises a curious and practical question for those who love to blend the freedom of the open road with the comforts of home: “What size mattress fits in a Subaru Forester?”

This isn’t just a query for camping enthusiasts or cross-country travellers; it’s also for parents seeking a quick nap solution for kids on long drives, or for anyone who finds peace under the night sky, comfortably ensconced in their vehicle.

The Subaru Forester, known for its reliability, safety, and all-weather capability, also offers an inviting space for those who wish to transform it into a temporary abode.

Subaru Foresters are one of the most popular SUVs in the United States and is known for its big cargo space. There is no better thing to do than car camping with your Subaru Forester but you need to know what size mattress fits in a Subaru Forester.

In this article, we dive deep into the specifics of fitting a mattress into a Subaru Forester, exploring various aspects from dimensions and mattress types to practical tips and safety considerations, ensuring that every reader can find the perfect fit for their needs and adventures.

Let’s get started.

Mattress Sizes And Dimensions

You need to know some standard mattress sizes and their dimensions before you select a mattress for your SUV.

But mattress sizes and their dimensions can vary based on country to country so keep that in mind.

For this article, we will take some standard mattress sizes in the United States.

After knowing all the possible mattress sizes, let’s know how much cargo space your Subaru Forester has.

Dimensions of the Subaru Forester

This is the most important factor that can determine what size mattress fits in a Subaru Forester because the bigger the cargo space of your SUV the better for a larger mattress to fit in.

But depending on the make year and generation of the Subaru Forester, the cargo space can vary.

When answering “What size mattress fits in a Subaru Forester,” the pivotal starting point is the interior dimensions of this versatile vehicle. The Subaru Forester, spanning several generations, has been consistently designed with a spacious interior, making it a top choice for those seeking a blend of everyday utility and adventure-readiness.

The interior dimensions of the Forester vary slightly across different model years and trims, but generally, you can expect a substantial amount of space when the rear seats are folded down. For instance, the 2015 Subaru Forester offers about 74.7 inches in length and 47.2 inches in width of cargo space, while the 2021 model boasts a slightly longer cargo area, providing a few extra inches for added comfort. It’s important for potential mattress fitters to note these variances.

To get more specific, if you own a 2018 Subaru Forester, you’ll find the cargo area from the back of the front seats to the tailgate measures approximately 74 inches in length. However, the width between the wheel wells is about 42 inches, expanding to 55 inches if you measure between the side walls. This distinction is crucial because the narrower space between the wheel wells might limit the width of the mattress you can fit without having to bend it around the interior contours of your Forester.

Moreover, the shape of the cargo area also plays a role. The Forester’s cargo space is not a perfect rectangle; it narrows slightly towards the back of the front seats and has wheel wells that can protrude into the space. These nuances are essential when considering “What size mattress fits in a Subaru Forester” and selecting a mattress that will not only fit but also be comfortable and functional for your needs.

Ultimately, you may need to measure the cargo space of your own to be perfectly sure. Below is the latest 2024 Subaru Forester model by its different models:

This could give you some helpful information, but you need to measure the cargo area by width and height in inches to get a better idea of what size mattress will fit in your Subaru Forester.

Also Read: What Size Mattress Fits in A Prius? 

What Type of Mattress is Best For Subaru Forester?

There are lots of types of mattress you can use for car camping but we will discuss some best type of mattresses which is perfect for your Subaru Forester.

There are three main types of mattresses that you can use for car camping. These mattress fits in a Subaru Forester:

Air Mattress

Most campers use only air mattresses because they are cheap, lightweight, easy to carry, convenient, and you can fold them in small sizes.

Nearly all car campers use air mattresses but there are a few cons of using an air mattress such as you can’t bend or fold an air mattress when it’s inflated.

So if the air mattress is bigger then it won’t fit in the back of Subaru Forester.

For example, the width of the cargo area in a Subaru Forester is around 40 inches (this can change depending on the make year of Subaru Forester so you need to calculate this on your own).

And when you try to fit a full-size air mattress which is 54 inches wide then you can’t fold or bend the width of an air mattress when it’s inflated like a foam mattress.

So you need to only choose twin air mattresses for a Subaru Forester, the larger sizes of air mattresses won’t fit in the back of Subaru Forester.

Foam Mattress

Foam mattresses not only make you feel like a real bed but also can be bent or folded into a smaller size.

So even if you have a larger foam mattress then you can cut it, fold it or bend it whatever you want.

And believe us, foam mattresses are much more comfortable than air mattresses.

On the other hand, foam mattresses are more expensive than air mattresses but in our opinion, this investment is worth making.

Foldable Mattress

As its name suggests, you can fold the mattress and fit it in the back of Subaru Forester.

These mattresses are specially designed for car camping and you can even find these foldable mattresses specially made for Subaru Forester.

But our recommendation would be to choose an air mattress or a foam mattress.

Tips for Choosing the Right Mattress

When answering the question, “What size mattress fits in a Subaru Forester?” several factors should be considered:

• Material: The material of the mattress plays a crucial role in fitting and comfort. Memory foam or latex mattresses offer a good balance of comfort, flexibility, and durability.
• Thickness: Considering the interior height of the Forester, a mattress with a thickness of about 6-8 inches is ideal. This ensures enough space above the mattress for comfortable movement and sleep.
• Flexibility: Flexibility is key in fitting a mattress inside a Forester. A mattress that can be easily rolled or folded makes the process much simpler.

How to Fit a Mattress in a Subaru Forester

Fitting a mattress in a Subaru Forester involves more than just choosing the right size. It’s about understanding the nuances of your vehicle’s interior and ensuring a smooth, safe installation. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Preparation: Begin by clearing out the cargo space. Remove any items that might obstruct the area or potentially damage the mattress. It’s also a good opportunity to clean the space, as dust and debris can be uncomfortable under a mattress.
2. Rear Seat Configuration: Ensure that the rear seats are folded down completely flat. In some Forester models, the seats might not be entirely level with the cargo area, so you might need to use additional padding or a mattress topper to create an even sleeping surface.
3. Measuring the Space: Take precise measurements of the cargo area. Measure the length from the back of the front seats to the tailgate, the width between the wheel wells, and also the wider space between the side walls. Remember, the shape of the cargo area isn’t a perfect rectangle, so take note of any curves or indentations.
4. Choosing the Right Mattress: Based on your measurements, select a mattress that will fit comfortably. Consider using an inflatable mattress if your Forester’s dimensions don’t accommodate standard mattress sizes. Inflatable mattresses can be slightly under-inflated to fit into irregular spaces.
5. Inserting the Mattress: Carefully insert the mattress into the cargo area, starting from the tailgate and moving forward. If you’re using a foam or foldable mattress, it might be easier to fold it in half or roll it up, place it inside, and then unroll or unfold it into position.
6. Adjusting for Fit: Once the mattress is inside, adjust it to fit the space properly. If there are gaps on the sides or between the seats, consider using pillows or rolled-up blankets to fill them for added comfort and stability.
7. Securing the Mattress: Ensure the mattress is secure and won’t shift around while the vehicle is in motion. If necessary, use non-slip mats or grips under the mattress.

Benefits and Challenges

Fitting a mattress into a Subaru Forester brings a mix of benefits and challenges that are worth considering.

Benefits

1. Comfort and Convenience: Having a mattress in your Forester allows for comfortable sleeping arrangements, be it for camping, road trips, or impromptu overnight stays. It’s a budget-friendly alternative to hotels and more comfortable than sleeping bags or tents on uneven ground.
2. Flexibility for Adventure: With a mattress, your Forester becomes a mobile sleeping unit, offering the freedom to stay almost anywhere. Whether it’s a scenic roadside stop or a designated campground, you can rest comfortably.
3. Safe and Secure: Sleeping in your vehicle can be safer than a tent in certain environments, offering protection from the elements and wildlife.

Challenges

1. Space Limitation: While a mattress adds comfort, it also takes up significant space in the vehicle. This means less room for other gear, luggage, or passengers.
2. Fitting Issues: Finding a mattress that fits perfectly can be challenging. Standard mattress sizes may not align with the Forester’s dimensions, necessitating custom solutions or compromises on mattress size and type.
3. Ventilation and Condensation: Sleeping in a car can lead to issues with ventilation and condensation. It’s important to ensure adequate airflow to maintain comfort and prevent moisture buildup inside the vehicle.
4. Safety Considerations: A mattress should never interfere with the driver’s visibility or the vehicle’s operation. It’s essential to ensure that the mattress is secured and doesn’t obstruct views or access to controls.

What Size Mattress Fits in A Subaru Forester?

As I said before, the cargo space can vary depending on the make year of Subaru Forester but you can easily fit a twin and full-size mattress in the back of Subaru Forester.

Will A Twin Mattress fit in A Subaru Forester?

A twin mattress is around 38 inches wide and 75 inches long and you can easily fit a twin-size mattress in the back of Subaru Forester.

But remember twin size mattresses can only accommodate a single person.

There is also a twin XL size which can accumulate only one person but it’s 5 inches longer than a twin-size mattress.

Twin XL Air mattress won’t fit in the back of Subaru Forester but you can fold the twin XL Foam mattress slightly.

Will A Full Mattress Fit in a Subaru Forester?

A Full-size mattress is the perfect size of mattress for a Subaru Forester because the full-size mattress is around 54 inches wide and 75 inches long.

Full-size mattresses can accumulate two people and the best-size mattress for a Subaru Forester.

Will A Queen Mattress Fit in A Subaru Forester?

No, a queen-size mattress won’t fit in the back of Subaru Forester because the queen size is too big which is around 60 inches wide and 80 inches long.

But if you have a queen-size foam mattress then you can either cut the mattress in half or fold or bend the mattress in half.

That’s how you can even fit a queen-size foam mattress in the back of Subaru Forester.

Will A King Mattress Fit In A Subaru Forester?

There is no way a king-size mattress will fit in the back of Subaru Forester because king size mattress will not fit in any SUV including Subaru Forester.

Because a size mattress is not made for car camping and never fits in any SUV.

Neither the height nor the width of a king-size mattress will fit in Subaru Forester.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding “What size mattress fits in a Subaru Forester” is a question that holds significant value for those who seek the comfort of a good night’s sleep during their travels. The Subaru Forester, with its commendable balance of spaciousness and versatility, provides a unique opportunity to transform your vehicle into a cozy, mobile sleeping area. However, the answer to “What size mattress fits in a Subaru Forester” isn’t just about dimensions; it’s about how you can maximize your experience while being mindful of the practicalities and limitations.

For those considering this setup, it’s essential to remember that while a Subaru Forester can accommodate various mattress sizes, from twin to full, and even custom or inflatable options, each choice comes with its considerations. From ensuring a snug fit to maintaining safety and comfort, the decision on what size mattress fits in a Subaru Forester involves more than just measurements. It’s about creating a space that suits your needs, whether that’s for solo adventures, family camping trips, or simply enjoying a serene spot to rest while on the road.

Moreover, the journey to finding out “What size mattress fits in a Subaru Forester” is also a journey towards understanding your own travel style and preferences. It’s about balancing the joy of adventure with the comfort of home. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a cross-country road trip, the ability to comfortably sleep in your Forester can significantly enhance your travel experience.

In essence, the quest to answer “What size mattress fits in a Subaru Forester” is as much about discovering the capabilities of your vehicle as it is about embracing the spirit of adventure. With the right mattress, your Subaru Forester can become more than just a mode of transportation; it can be a haven, a place of rest and relaxation amidst your journeys. So, as you contemplate what size mattress fits in your Subaru Forester, think of it as a key to unlocking new travel experiences, each with the promise of comfort, convenience, and unforgettable memories.