Motorhome single bed layout
If you're planning a motorhome tour in hot places then single beds might be more appealing than a double. Or you want flexibility for use of your motorhome by different family members or friends. If so then this may be your answer.
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- The single bed layout
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The single bed layout
Great in hot places
If you're planning to tour in the middle of a Mediterranean summer, single beds might be more appealing than a double. Or, perhaps, you have twin beds at home, or you just want flexibility for use of your 'van by different family members or friends. If any of this sounds like you then fixed single beds are the way forward.
Recent layout design
Bedroom specifics aside, these layouts are typically fitted in motorhomes that are 7m to 7.5m long. and single bed layouts feature in a number of narrow-bodied low-profile coachbuilts, including the Rapido C55 and Swift Escape Compact C502 (with unusual low-level beds).
Although very popular today, this layout is a relatively recent development, so it's scarcer in older used motorhomes. Many single bed models hail from the Continent, and especially German manufacturers, but there are also alternatives from the major UK manufacturers.
Rear single bed layouts
There are two basic types of single bed layout. Most common are models with their beds mounted at the very rear of the motorhome. Usually, these have a big, full-width garage beneath, although some manufacturers offer the choice of high or low beds. In ‘low bed' form, night-time access is easier but the garage/storage space below is considerably reduced.
Most of the layouts with beds right at the rear of the motorhome offer the possibility to convert the singles into a giant double with a centre infill, giving you the possibility of cosy double bed sleeping in winter and separate beds in summer. But access is rarely anything like as easy in double bed format and often requires the use of a ladder (although Carthago has a neat solution to this issue).
Wardrobes are typically placed under the foot of the beds in high bed versions, while ablutions sit forward of the beds with the same opportunity for en suite facilities as in island bed models. Often layouts are identical forward of the bedroom to island bed sister motorhomes in the same range.
Rear bathroom single bed layouts
Secondly, there are layouts with across-the-rear bathroom facilities, with low beds placed immediately forward of the ablutions. These work best for couples, as bathroom access is through the bedroom. The facilities will feature a separate shower and often include the wardrobe, too, so it should also act as a full dressing room.
Again, the bed sizes are often an issue as feet cannot usually overhang – although, when converted to double bed format, some of the largest motorhome beds in the market can be found. Remember, too, that many have unequal-length mattresses, typically dictating ‘his and hers' sleeping, but this is unhelpful if you're both tall. Look out, also, for cupboards that will be uncomfortably low above your pillow, while some of the best designs allow the head of the bed to rise on a ratchet system. It's surprising how many single bed layouts do not allow you to sit up in bed.
High bed versions are mostly approached by easy stair-style steps but not all suit those with shorter legs and some leave inadequate headroom to comfortably sit on the bed.
Electric single bed layouts
A particularly clever variation on the single bed theme is the Chausson 630 with electric single beds that lower individually over its spacious side settee front lounge.
Our top tip
Single bed layouts can suit families, with teenagers taking the rear bedroom and parents having a drop-down double up front.
You'll also have that big garage for all your outdoor/sports gear but check there's sufficient payload, too.
Our top choices
Adria's Matrix Supreme 670 SL is one of the best single bed low-profiles on the market or, if you fancy something that's a bit more compact, consider the Compact Supreme DL from the same Slovenian maker.
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