(photo courtesy of Rimor)
If you’re looking to go motorhoming with kids, bunk bed layouts are arguably streets ahead of any other floorplan.
Historically, they were mostly found in entry-level overcab coachbuilt models (often from the major Italian manufacturers), but the advent of the drop-down bed has seen an increase in low-profile models (see Benimar, Itineo, Rimor, Roller Team and Hobby).
There are a very few bunk bed van conversions, too, including the WildAx Solaris.
Be sure to watch our complete guide to motorhome layouts.
Words by Rachel Scholes and Peter Vaughan
The bunk bed layout
(photo courtesy of Rimor)
This is also the domain of the budget motorhome, as value is high on the list of priorities for parents. Hire companies, too, rent these for similar reasons, so why not try before you buy?
If you’re tempted to purchase one, remember that an ex-rental model might be a good-value buy, but it has most likely had a harder life than a privately owned ’van.
Lounge areas are usually formulated around a pullman dinette, but bigger models may actually have a four-seater dinette on one side and a two-seat arrangement (for a couple of little ones) alongside.
Belted travel seats are crucial, so check that the number of belts matches the number of berths (some may only be lap belts, if fitted on rear-facing seats). Up to seven berths are possible in some family models.
The bunk beds themselves are most commonly arranged transversely across the rear, while some have them lengthways at one side; both types also offer generous storage, thanks to the fact that the bottom bunk usually folds up, creating a garage-like locker.
The best bunks will have a window and a reading lamp each.
(photo by Warners Group Publications)
Itineo is a specialist in family- friendly motorhomes and its range includes a couple of models that have a separate area for the kids (with bunks and their own seating), while Rimor has a model with four separate bunks in an amazing rear bedroom!
There are also van conversions with double bunks at the back – one double bed atop another. These are usually an adaptation of transverse bed models with a second (sometimes removable) bed added above, but pay careful attention to the headroom between the bunks, which is likely to be very tight indeed unless the base vehicle is the taller (H3) Ducato van.
As always, try for size with all the family on board. Important things for families to check out in any bunk bed ’van are the adequacy of the kitchen worktop and the fridge size, and you’ll almost certainly want a separate shower in a coachbuilt.
If you’re restricted to 3,500kg by your driving licence, look very carefully at payload. The more people you plan to carry, the more payload you’ll need – and then there are clothes, toys, scooters, bodyboards, bikes..
