If you love car camping and own a Subaru Outback, choosing the right mattress is very important. The Outback has a roomy cargo area when the rear seats are folded down, making it a great choice for overnight trips. A good mattress will help you sleep well, stay warm, and enjoy your adventure more.
Why the Subaru Outback Is Great for Car Camping
The Subaru Outback is known for its durability and off-road abilities. When the back seats are folded, it offers a flat sleeping surface. This space can fit a mattress up to 72 inches long and about 40 inches wide. The interior height also gives you room to move without feeling cramped.
This setup is perfect for couples, solo travelers, or even small families who enjoy the outdoors. With a proper mattress, you can make your Outback as cozy as a small bedroom on wheels. If you’re planning a fun camping trip, this guide will help you choose a mattress that fits your needs.
1. HEST Sleep System
Comfort level: The HEST Sleep System is a high-end mattress made with memory foam and a water-resistant base. It comes with two layers of memory foam that give excellent support and comfort for all sleeping positions.
Fit for the Outback: It fits nicely in the cargo area and rolls up into a compact size for storage. You can also separate the foam pad from the cover to wash it easily. This mattress is thick and great for long road trips.
Best for: Those who want a hotel-like sleeping experience while camping in their Subaru Outback.
2. Exped MegaMat Duo 10
Comfort level: The Exped MegaMat Duo 10 is an inflatable mattress designed for two people. It is thick, quiet, and holds air all night. Its foam-insulated core makes it warm even in cold conditions.
Fit for the Outback: It fits very well in the rear cargo space. You can inflate it quickly with the included mini pump. It’s easy to roll up and store when you’re done.
Best for: Couples who need a mattress that balances size, warmth, and support.
3. Luno Air Mattress 2.0
Comfort level: Designed specifically for the Subaru Outback, the Luno Air Mattress is made of tough, puncture-resistant materials. It has dual sides, so two people can set different firmness levels.
Fit for the Outback: This mattress fits perfectly, taking the vehicle’s curves and space into account. It comes with base extenders for the footwell area and inflates with a 12V car pump.
Best for: Subaru owners who want a mattress designed exactly for their vehicle.
4. Therm-a-Rest MondoKing 3D
Comfort level: The MondoKing offers plush foam and air support. It inflates to almost four inches thick and delivers a home-like sleeping surface. It’s also one of the warmest mattresses thanks to its R-value of over 8.
Fit for the Outback: It may be a bit bulky, but it fits well if used as a solo bed. Two MondoKings can be paired together with a coupling kit for couples.
Best for: Cold-weather campers and those who value maximum comfort.
5. Willpo CertiPUR-US Memory Foam Mattress
Comfort level: This tri-fold mattress uses thick memory foam certified by CertiPUR-US. It supports your body and helps relieve pressure. The cover is waterproof and removable for cleaning.
Fit for the Outback: It folds up easily, which makes it convenient for travel. It fits well in the cargo space, especially for solo sleepers or small pairs.
Best for: Campers who prefer foam over inflatable designs.
6. Hikenture Double Sleeping Pad
Comfort level: The Hikenture pad inflates to a solid two inches thick and comes with an integrated foot pump. It’s soft yet firm and doesn’t slide much inside the car.
Fit for the Outback: It fits perfectly in the back with minimal gap. It’s light, compact, and packs into a small bag.
Best for: Budget-conscious travelers who want a compact mattress.
7. SoundAsleep Dream Series Air Mattress
Comfort level: Although it’s meant for home use, the SoundAsleep mattress performs well in a car setup too. It has ComfortCoil technology for firmness and support. The built-in electric pump inflates it in minutes.
Fit for the Outback: It’s best used with access to external power. For car camping, you may need an inverter. It fits the cargo space tightly, so it’s not ideal for long stays but good for occasional trips.
Best for: Campers looking for extra height and firmness.
8. Intex Dura-Beam Series Single High
Comfort level: This mattress uses fiber-tech technology and offers good value. It’s lightweight and easy to inflate. While not as warm or plush, it’s still a solid choice.
Fit for the Outback: The full-size version fits within the car’s dimensions. It’s good for one person or two people who don’t mind sleeping close.
Best for: Occasional campers or people on a budget.
9. Klymit Static V Luxe
Comfort level: The Klymit Luxe is ultra-light and built for back or side sleepers. The body-mapped design gives extra support to pressure points. It inflates fast and packs down small.
Fit for the Outback: It works well for solo travelers or paired with another pad. It doesn’t need much space and can be used outside the car too.
Best for: Hikers and solo campers who sleep in and out of the car.
Things to Consider When Buying a Mattress for Your Subaru Outback
Mattress size and shape: The cargo space in a Subaru Outback is limited. Measure your space before buying a mattress. Some mattresses are made to fit around the curves and wheel wells, while others are rectangular and may leave gaps.
Thickness and support: Thicker mattresses offer more comfort, especially if you’re a side sleeper. However, too much thickness might limit headroom in your car.
Insulation: If you plan to camp in cold weather, choose a mattress with good insulation. Look for high R-value ratings, which help keep your body warm.
Storage and portability: Folding foam mattresses are easy to store. Inflatable models pack down even smaller. Consider how much room you have for storing gear during the day.
Material and durability: Choose materials that resist punctures, moisture, and dirt. Waterproof covers or treated fabrics add long-term value and keep things clean inside your vehicle.
Inflation and setup: Manual or electric inflation can save time. Make sure the mattress comes with a pump or can be inflated using your car’s power supply.
If you’re new to car camping, you may want to check out a camping guide to help you prepare better.
Final Thoughts
Finding the right mattress for your Subaru Outback can transform your camping experience. Whether you go for a foam option or an inflatable one, it should match your comfort needs, travel habits, and camping style. Think about how often you camp, where you go, and how much gear you bring. With the right setup, your Outback can become a reliable and cozy retreat under the stars.
All the mattresses in this guide have been selected for their quality, value, and compatibility with the Subaru Outback. From premium memory foam to compact sleeping pads, you now have plenty of options to choose from. Safe travels and sleep well!
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