Looking for an RV bunk ladder, so you or the young ones can climb into bed safely? Bunk beds are a great space-saving RV feature and come in bunkhouse trailers, but many don't come with a convenient or safe set of ladders.
With the limited floor space of an RV, it's important to find a ladder that is sturdy, secure, and that can be moved or retracted to free up valuable space during the day.
In this review we have researched all the best RV bunk bed ladders on the market, so you can know safely that after reading this review and guide that you'll be getting the RV bunk ladder that suits you best.
But there are many things to consider before you go shopping, such as weight capacity, adjustabilty of the ladders and storage options, among other things.
Photo credit: rvshare.com
After the review, there's a Buyer's Guide where we look further into RV bunk ladders. Here we offer advice on how to choose a set and what aspects you should consider before getting some. We look at the different types of bunk ladders, and what to expect in different price ranges and also so general guidance on buying a safe set for your RV.
There's also an FAQ section, so by the end you'll be fully equipped and know exactly what to look for. If you prefer, you can jump straight to the RV Bunk Ladders Buyer's Guide by clicking the link...
Review of the Best RV Bunk Ladders
Firstly, let's look at the Best RV Bunk Ladders reviews. We have considered all things such as quality of materials, budget ladders and others for different sized RVs.
Best Overall RV Bunk Ladder:
Stromberg Carlson LA-460B
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Pros
Cons
The Stromberg Carlson LA-460B 60-inch RV bunk ladder is built well with safety and convenience in mind. There are two methods for attachment: You can use hooks or extrusions, depending on the design of the bunk bed. This model is 60 inches in length, but there's also the Stromberg Carlson LA-466-B Bunk Ladder, which has a little extra length and stands 66 inches tall. Both models can be trimmed to fit with smaller bunk beds, if necessary.
At a mere 2.3 pounds, this ladder is incredibly lightweight and thin, but don’t let that fool you, as it can easily support the weight of the average adult. The ladder is designed for children, so the rungs are closer together to cater towards shorter legs that would have trouble climbing a normal ladder.
The steps of the ladder are wrapped in padded rubber treads to prevent slipping. It doesn't fold or telescope, but it's so light and easy to attach that you can store it in another area of the RV if you need to free up floor space during the day.
Bottom Line
The Stromberg Carlson LA-460B 60” RV Bunk Ladder and its 66-inch variation are both simple, effective ladders that work perfectly for kids' bunk beds. There are multiple attachment methods, so you won’t have to worry about figuring out how to install it. In fact, it should work with almost any bunk bed.
The sleek black design goes with all kinds of decor and won’t show scratches or dirt. It's designed specifically for children, so they won't have trouble reaching between the rungs. The padded steps and rubber treads ensure the ladder is as safe as possible.
Runner-up:
RecPro 60" RV Bunk Ladder
[amazon fields="B084X6YKBY" image="1" value="thumb" image_size="large" image_align="center" image_link="none"]
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers have generally loved using this product and have given it high ratings and positive reviews. They appreciated how it's safe enough for their children too and works exactly as advertised. A few even lauded their customer service and speedy delivery and have shown faith in the company, commenting they would definitely buy from them again.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The high construction quality and its ability to offer the customer what it promised is the thing that attracted us most towards this product. It's lightweight, safe, and waterproof, and has a weight capacity of 300lbs. It will make sure that even hot and humid days will not do any irreversible harm to the ladder.
Bottom Line
The RecPro RV Bunk Ladder is a stellar option. It shows that the manufacturers took great care in crafting a safe yet strong RV bunk bed ladder. It's reliable and durable and has a construction quality that will win over your trust. What more are you looking for?
Best Class C RV Bunk Ladder:
Surco 501B
[amazon fields="B004UR2DRC" image="1" value="thumb" image_size="large" image_align="center" image_link="none"]
Pros
Cons
Weighing five pounds and measuring 60 inches tall, the Surco 501B Bunk Ladder is a lightweight, reliable, and sturdy option. It can attach to most bunks using the 1-inch hooks at the top of each pole.
It's made from heavy gauge 1-inch aluminum coated with a smooth satin anodized finish to prevent scratching. Each of the steps are wrapped with nylon pads for optimal safety and comfort. The feet are also padded to improve the grip and protect the RV floor from damage.
The ladder may be a little too tall to lean at the correct angle on some bunks, but you can trim it using a pipe cutting tool. And for anyone wanting a stamp of quality, this RV bunk ladder is made from products created in the United States.
Bottom Line
Thin and easy to transport, the Surco 501B Bunk Ladder is designed specifically for RV bunk beds. It's lightweight but sturdy and takes up minimal space. The nylon wrap on each step and the padded feet protect both you and the RV floor from accidents. The hooks are only about 1-inch deep, so it's recommended to use an additional tool, such as zip ties, to prevent them from slipping or falling off.
Best Adjustable RV Bunk Ladder:
Xtend & Climb 750P
[amazon fields="B000JIMSDA" image="1" value="thumb" image_size="large" image_align="center" image_link="none"]
Pros
Cons
Similar to the WolfWise EN131, the Xtend & Climb 750P Heavy Duty Telescoping RV bunk Ladder is a versatile model that can be used in a variety of settings. It's constructed from clean touch anodized aluminum alloy and can support a, impressive maximum of 225 pounds.
The Xtend & Climb 750P Heavy Duty Telescoping Ladder has a streamlined design that makes it safe and easy to operate. Its convenient telescoping technology can be extended and locked in place by the foot, which creates an easy and secure closure system. The system is controlled by an angled thumb release that provides safe, ergonomic hand positioning. There are non-slip end caps to keep it stable and secure at all times.
It weighs about 18 pounds on its own, but there is an integrated carrying handle to make transport much easier. If you need something with a better reach, there's a 10.5-foot version available as well.
Bottom Line
Overall, this ladder is an excellent option if you’re looking for a set that's versatile that you can use on tasks around the house and in your RV. It can extend up to 8.5 feet in use and then easily telescope into a compact portable unit when need be. The only potential downside of this model is its weight. It's highly durable and versatile, but it is not as lightweight as other options on this list. That said, the integrated carrying handle makes it easier to manage the extra weight.
5. Top Line BL200-05
[amazon fields="B00124Z67K" image="1" value="thumb" image_size="large" image_align="center" image_link="none"]
Pros
Cons
The Top Line (BL200-05) Bunk Ladder is a durable model with features that make it easy to adapt to many kinds of bunks. It has two hooks that attach to the rung of the bunk bed, so installation is super quick and easy. The hooks have a 1.5-inch opening to grasp the side of the bunk.
The RV bunk bed ladder stands 60 inches tall and is made from incredibly sturdy 6063-T6 aluminum alloy, which can support up to 300 lbs. It's durable and strong, but only weighs about five pounds on its own, so moving it around won't be a problem.
Each of the steps are padded to make them more comfortable and prevent slipping, and the aluminum is finished to protect against snagging or scratching.
Top Line also produces the (BL200-07) 60" Docking System Bunk Ladder, which is the same ladder but with a different attachment method. Instead of using hooks, there's a docking system that securely attaches the ladder to the side of the top bunk. The system is very sturdy and secure but is also easy to detach if you need to move or adjust the ladder.
Bottom Line
Top Line offers two versions of a high-quality ladder for an RV bunk bed. Both are sturdy, lightweight, and versatile, and you'll go a long way to get something that can support more weight. You can choose the model with the attachment style best suited for your bunk bed. It's thin and easy to transport but can still support up to 300 pounds. The ladder's 60-inch height will work for most bunks, but for some shorter models, it may need to be trimmed so it can lean against the bed at the correct angle.
Buyer's Guide
we look further into RV bunk ladders. Here we offer advice on how to choose a set and what aspects you should consider before getting some, such as the different types of bunk ladders, price points, and the all-important storage options.
There's a section advising on the best ways to store your kit, and also an FAQ section on all things RV bunk ladders, so by the end of the article you'll be ready to go shopping.
How to Choose an RV Bunk Ladder
Before settling on a RV bunk ladder, consider the people who will be using it most often and find a model that will be able to meet their needs.
Since bunk bed ladders are primarily used by children, it's even more important to evaluate the size and safety features of each ladder to prevent accidents from happening.
Weight Capacity
One of the most important factors to consider is the ladder’s weight capacity. Most RV bunk ladders are more than capable of supporting the weight of the average child.
That said, it's always a good idea to use a ladder with a significant weight capacity that can support an adult as well.
You never know when you might need to access it or if multiple children will try to climb on it at once. So, it's better to be safe than sorry and invest in a product that can withstand a variety of users.
Stromberg Carlson LA-460B
Adjustability
There are many benefits to having an adjustable RV bunk ladder. Oftentimes, it will not be the same person using the bunk bed and ladder each time.
In that case, it's best to have a model with customizable height because it makes it easier to adjust the angle the ladder sits at while it is in use.
It also makes it easier to connect the ladder to any size bunk bed, though there are some models that can be trimmed if they're too tall.
Storage Options
In an RV, it’s all about conserving space. If things are looking a little cramped, opt for a model that can telescope into a smaller unit for compact storage or one that can easily be detached and moved elsewhere to free up floor space during the day.
Types of RV Bunk Ladders
The type of RV bunk ladder can vary depending on its weight capacity and the distance between steps, height, and other factors. However, this section will cater to other types of RV ladders that may double as a bunk ladder that an RV user could find a good use for.
RV Foldable Ladders
These ladders are generally lightweight. They're typically used for assisting the user in getting to the top of their vehicle or accessing their roofs or any high areas. They can come in handy while cleaning to make sure you get all the leaves and dirt out of the camper. As well as this, this set of ladders could be used for random tasks such as changing ceiling lights, or putting some luggage like surfboards on the roof of your RV. The uses are endless.
Permanent RV Exterior Ladders
These ladders usually come preinstalled in a lot of RVs, but some models leave this to the consumers’ discretion. They're primarily used to access the roof of your travel trailer.
Now, a folding ladder can do that too, but this one is safer and more comfortable to use. Their installation might seem cumbersome, but it's actually pretty easy.
Telescoping RV Ladders
This one is not as widely used or preferred by users, but some people might like or need them. Those with an Airstream for campers might find that the average A-frame style ladder doesn’t do the deed perfectly. In such cases, you could use telescoping RV ladders.
Xtend & Climb 750P Telescoping Ladder
Price Points of RV Bunk Bed Ladders
As with most RV accessories, bunk ladders are available at a wide range of price points. In general, you should be able to find RV bunk ladders at the following prices:
$25 - $50
While it is possible to find RV bunk bed ladders in this price range, they tend to be much smaller and use less durable materials. An RV bunk bed ladder in this price range may only be rated for the weight of a child, and won't be ideal for adult usage.
$50 - $100
RV bunk ladders in this price range feature much more durable constructions than cheaper options. They're usually made from stainless steel, and you can even find a folding ladder, collapsible ladder, or telescopic ladder in this price range if that's what you want for your travel trailer. Look for bunk ladders in this price range that clearly state their weight capacity. Some are still designed primarily for children rather than adults.
$100+
An RV bunk ladder that costs over $100 tend to balance weight and strength much better than cheaper options. They are incredibly safe and usually have extra safety features, such as padded rubber treads to prevent scratching and non-slip rubber foot placements. The collapsible and telescopic ladder options are an excellent choice for those with an RV or motorhome that doesn't boast as much interior space.
Top Line BL200-05 padded step
How to Store an RV Bunk Ladder
The best storage method for RV bunk ladders will vary by model. If you have very limited floor space in your RV, there are a variety of options out there that are designed for compact storage. Some ladders, like the Xtend & Climb 750P Telescoping Ladder, can collapse to make extra space, while others are easy to remove and store elsewhere when not in use. If your floor space is limited but you know you have extra space to store a ladder in a closet or under a bed, many ladders can easily fit into those types of spaces.
Are All RV Bunk Ladders The Same?
You may be thinking, it’s a ladder, how much variety can there really be? Fact is, there's a wide range of options to explore, especially if you are searching for a ladder that'll work well in a unique RV setting. Before settling on a model, research the different options to find a ladder that's the right size and design for your needs. Also look for features like weight capacity, storage mechanisms, and height will vary from ladder to ladder. This is especially important if you have young children who'll be using the ladder, as some models aren't designed to support small children and could be dangerous.
Considerations to Keep in Mind while Buying
Using any type of ladder always poses some potential risks. Slipping and falling can cause serious injuries, especially for children, so it is crucial to find a ladder with features in place that help prevent accidents. A quality ladder will have some form of grip padding on the steps to prevent slipping and keep your feet comfortable as you climb.
For small children, it's also important to find a model that doesn't have huge gaps between each step. Many standard RV ladders aren't designed with children in mind and are too tall for them to climb, which increases the risk of falling.
Always check the weight capacity. Most ladders can support children, but it's important they can support the full weight of an adult, just in case you need to access the bed.
Other features such as feet grips on the ladder legs and secure, easy-to-use attachment systems will also help improve the safety of the ladder and keep it in place.
These types of features are even more essential in an RV setting where there is movement as you drive.
Photo credit: decoredo.com
RV Bunk Ladders FAQs
Your satisfaction is our utmost priority, so we want to make sure that all your concerns and queries have been addressed when you leave here. For this purpose, we have added some FAQs on buying an RV bunk ladder that cater to common questions users have had in the past.
How to Make RV Bunk Bed Ladders Safer
Make sure the ladder has been installed properly and doesn’t wobble even in the slightest. Rubber pads can be used as an extra safety precaution or choose an option with easy-to-use and safe rungs. If you're worried about your kid, teach them how to use it properly, and supervise their first few times using it.
How Do You Make a Bunk Bed Ladder More Comfortable?
Although the material plays a big factor in how comfortable your ladder will be, there are a few steps that you can take. You could cover the ladder with padded anti-slip tape or place a tread cover on it.
How Wide Should an RV Bunk Bed Ladder Be?
There's no strict rule or measure of how wide an RV Bunk Bed Ladder should be, and instead the weight capacity should determine the width. If it is only for kids, then it should be moderately wide so that they can climb easily and not fall off. If it is designed for adults and children, it should be wide enough for a grown person to climb it without any difficulty.
How to Measure for an RV Bunk Ladder
Measuring for an RV bunk ladder is fairly straightforward. The first thing you will want to measure is the length from the floor to the bunk itself. Not only do you need to make sure it reaches the ground, but you should also make sure that it's not too long. Given that some RVs have fairly low ceilings, the ladder must fit. The next measurement is the width. Make sure that the ladder is wide enough to be practical for the intended users and check the weight capacity as some ladders are made for children, rather than adults.
What are RV Bunk Ladders Made Of?
While some of the more vintage ladders were simply made out of wood, a modern RV bunk ladder will almost always made out of metal. In most cases, manufacturers use high-grade aluminum, as it's much lighter than other metals. However, some of the cheaper options will use steel, as it is strong enough to support the weight of an adult, but a relatively inexpensive material to work with.
Conclusion
In closing, there are many aspects to consider when searching for an RV bunk ladder. You should be looking to purchase a model that is the ideal combination of safe, sturdy, and easy to use. While the products on this list vary in their adjustability, size, and price, each one is a secure and effective ladder that will enhance your overall RV set up.
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Hello, fellow wanderers! I’m Alyssia. Since 2008, my husband and I have called an RV our home, journeying through life one mile at a time. Our nomadic lifestyle has led us to over 70 countries, each with their unique tales that have shaped our own.
I share our stories and insights right here, hoping to inspire and guide you in your own adventures. Expect tips on RV living, our favorite camping spots, breathtaking hiking trails, and the joys and challenges of an ever-changing view from our window. Alongside, you’ll also find practical advice on outdoorsy stuff, designed to equip you for any journey. Join us as we continue to explore the vast, beautiful world on wheels!