There is nothing better than a road trip in your trailer with the family. But of course, the more of you the more sleeping space you need. That's where travel trailers with bunk beds make most sense.
Fortunately, a lot of travel trailer manufacturers have a full range of bunkhouse trailers, some with x2 bunkhouses, for those of you that need the extra space.
But with so many options it makes it harder to choose. Which brand can I trust? Can I get a travel trailer on a budget? are 2 questions regularly asked.
While there are some brands to avoid, we do believe most make quality products, some better than others, and if you're on a budget you can still get a good quality bunkhouse travel trailer.
In this article we've reviewed some of the best travel trailers with bunk beds, to cut down the time you spend researching. As well as this, we've added a general buyer's guide so you know exactly what to look for in a travel trailer.
There's also an FAQ section dedicated to all things travel trailers with bunk beds and bunkhouses, so you'll be well equipped with the knowledge needed before you spend your big bucks.
Do All Travel Trailers Have Bunk Beds?
All useful as bunk beds are, not all travel trailers are equipped with them. The market is currently flooding with a plethora of trailers featuring various floor plans, with different sleeping plans.
It’s no secret that travel trailers are probably the most popular type of RV due to their easy setup and campsite accessibility. They're available in various sizes and designs to cater to the certain needs of the people.
Travel trailers with bunk beds are the priority of big families for recreational purposes because of the immense storage and sleeping capacities they provide in addition to enough living area.
Why Would I Want Bunk Beds in a Travel Trailer?
Travel trailers with bunk beds are all the rage these days. Manufacturers are adding more bunk beds in their floor plans so families can have a restful vacation. So, if you are unsure whether you should get a travel trailer with bunk beds, here are some points to convince you.
Space Efficient
Take the sleeping capacity to the extreme with bed bunks. These beds are specially designed to give you more space while occupying less. They can be easily turned into the seating space when not in use.
Brilliant For Increasing Sleeping Capacity
Traveling with the family does not mean you have to compromise your comfort level. Similarly, a bunk bed comes to your rescue if you occasionally travel with guests. With these beds in the travel trailers, you can ensure that the kids or the guests sleep in comfort.
Cost-Effective
Bunk beds are probably the most cost-effective way of getting extra beds for additional travelers. You won’t need to rent a separate travel trailer to enjoy a trip with friends or family.
Improve Privacy Levels
It’s always nice to have privacy even while on the road. Travel trailers with bunkhouses have bunk beds in a separate area so the adults can have quality time to relax, too.
Review of the Best Travel Trailers with Bunk Beds
For families who love camping in style, travel trailers with bunk beds are a popular option. Read on to know all about some of our top recommendations that can make your camping experience a memorable one.
Best Overall Travel Trailer with Bunk Beds:
Forest River Salem 30KQBSS
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Users find this travel trailer with bunk beds very comfortable for road trips. They really loved this model because its durability and glossy finish give it an attractive appearance. The towing is secure and stable. And, it is capable of accommodating large families to allow you to make memories on your trip.
Why It Stands Out to Us
Forest River is a company known for manufacturing quality RVs, and the Salem travel trailer is another great addition. Appearance-wise, this model is appealing to the eyes, while the construction is sturdy as well as durable.
When it comes to the interior, you will find two bunk beds at the rear of the RV. The living room is attached to the dinette, where you can enjoy a hearty meal with your family at the end of the day.
The storage space is also quite generous, with numerous cupboards and closets. With 11 different floor plans available, this model can sleep eight persons. In short, this is a great option for those who love to spend the maximum amount of time outdoors.
Bottom Line
Durability, versatility, and a great set of features make this travel trailer the best of the lot. It is equipped with all essential amenities so you can enjoy all the fun. All in all, it is probably the best deal on the market, and we're sure you'll love it.
Runner-up:
Jayco Jay Flight
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
The Jayco Jay Flight trailer has succeeded in winning the confidence of most of its customers, which is why it is the second-best on our list. Users like the construction and the luxurious interior that ensure comfort during traveling. It is neither too heavy nor too light to allow for easy towing.
Why It Stands Out to Us
Those who did not like our first recommendation will fall for this one. Jayco is a well-known name in the industry, and this trailer justifies its popularity. With a classic design and solid exterior, this model can catch many eyes.
There are two bunk beds available with a four-person capacity. You will find an outdoor kitchen with a refrigerator, sink, and double-burner you can use to make some delicious family meals. While the children can entertain themselves in the bunkhouse, the parents can relax in the living room.
The best thing is that there are 15-floor plans available to choose from. Additionally, the eight to ten sleeping capacity makes this trailer an ideal option for big families.
Bottom Line
If you are looking for a reliable travel trailer with bunk beds for your next adventure, this is just the right choice for you. With a solid build and amazing sleeping capacity, this model is an all-round performer.
Best Travel Trailer with Bunk Beds for the Money:
KZ Sportsmen Classic 181BH
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
The reasonable price tag of this travel trailer has lured many customers. People like it for the quality standards and the comfort it offers during a trip. The storage space is enough for a family, plus the kitchen is properly designed to have some quality time with family while enjoying tasty meals.
Why It Stands Out to Us
Travel trailers do not always have to be heavy on your pocket, and this model from KZ is proof of that. The trailer has a nice build that can easily tackle extreme situations. It comes with a large bed for parents. Additionally, there is a bunk bed at the rear of the camper.
In the living room, there is a kitchen with a sink, refrigerator, and stove to cook a hearty meal after a long day of adventure. Furthermore, you will find a dinette to enjoy the meal with the family. When it comes to storage, there is an ample amount of space available to keep your belongings safe.
Bottom Line
Nobody would like to spend a fortune on a single travel trailer with bunk beds. Hence, this model should not be missed by those who are on a tight budget. Make some priceless memories with your loved ones away from the chaos of the daily grind on this budget-friendly trailer.
Editor's Pick:
Venture RV Sonic Lite SL169VBH
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
A very well-reviewed trailer from customers, this model is extremely popular for its high sleeping capacity. It is nicely built and is easy to maneuver. People are in love with the exterior and outdoor features. It is quite suitable for couples and families who want to live comfortably while on the road.
Why It Stands Out to Us
This travel trailer with bunk beds is the editor's pick for many reasons. First of all, it features a sturdy and reliable build with an attractive design. The availability of a double bunk bed at the rear of the RV offers great sleeping capacity.
The bathroom is extremely spacious with a bathtub to relax after a tiring day. The living area has a kitchen with a sink and stove. There is a pantry closet as well next to the stove. The dinette consists of a free-standing table with foldable chairs to suit your needs. Thanks to the Murphy bed, this trailer can easily sleep eight people.
Bottom Line
An excellent trailer with equally remarkable features, this model is a must-have. From appealing exterior to high-end interior, and from enough sleeping capacity to ample storage space, this travel trailer covers everything for you. What else are you looking for?
Honorable Mention:
Coleman Lantern Series 215BH
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Users are quite satisfied with the performance of this travel trailer with bunk beds. According to them, the sleeping capacity is good, plus you get plenty of storage space. The interior is captivating, with a fully equipped kitchen and a nice dinette in the living area. Moreover, the availability of an outdoor kitchen takes the camping experience to a whole new level.
Why It Stands Out to Us
The Coleman travel trailer makes its way to our list for exhibiting some fantastic features. Talking about the construction first, it is made with durable aluminum sheets to ensure reliability. Next, the trailer stuns you with its gorgeous and well-lit interior. The flooring is also easy to clean and is certainly beautiful.
With bunk beds at the rear and a queen bed at the front, this camper trailer can easily sleep eight to ten people. The kitchen has a sink, oven, and a refrigerator with multiple cabinets to provide great storage space. Additionally, there is pass-through storage available. Finally, you can enjoy some delicious meals with your family in the dinette.
Bottom Line
If you want to take bunk bed capacity to the extreme, this model is surely the perfect option to go for. Whether it's about durability or comfort, this model won't disappoint you. All in all, it is a great pick for those who are young at heart.
What to Look For When Buying a Travel Trailer With Bunk Beds
The availability of a wide range of travel trailers with bunk beds can confuse you, and you may end up with the wrong one. You should always go for a model that can meet the demands of the whole family. To save you some time, we have listed down some of the essential features to consider while getting a travel trailer with bunk beds.
Bunk Beds
When it comes to beds, it’s not just the sleeping capacity. Consider whether you want the sleeping area at the front or rear of the trailer, or the bunk bed is single or double. It is always suggested to go for a double one as the older the children get, they are less likely to share a single mattress.
Storage Capacity
Traveling with the family requires you to carry multiple essential belongings. Of course, you can't just dump them in the living area or on the bed. Therefore, opt for a travel trailer that comes with plenty of storage space so you can easily keep your accessories and other stuff when not in use. Similarly, it is always better to have cabinets in the kitchen to keep it tidy.
Entertainment
There’s nothing worse than being trapped in a trailer when the weather is bad outside. Similarly, one would love to relax in the evening. Therefore, an entertainment center is a must. Look for a model with a comfortable sofa, LED TV, and exterior speakers.
Jayco Jay Flight
Bunk Beds vs Bunkhouse in a Travel Trailer - Comparison Overview
RV manufacturers are consistently trying to improve the lifestyle of people. For this reason, they have introduced bunk beds and bunkhouses in the floor plans to increase the sleeping capacity. This has made it possible for people to travel with their families in style and comfort.
What is the Difference Between an RV With a Bunk Bed and a Bunkhouse?
While both RVs are designed to ensure maximum sleeping capacity, the major difference between them is that a bunkhouse offers a dedicated private or semi-private sleeping area. It may have its entertainment area, too. On the other hand, bed bunks are generally located in the living area or the rear of the camper. These are generally used as a sleeping space for kids or occasional travelers.
Safety Considerations for Bunk Beds
Bunk beds are quite popular for kids, especially in travel trailers. They are not only fun but also allow different sleeping arrangements to meet your certain needs. However, you must know that this type of bed presents some safety risks. Therefore, if you have made your mind to get a travel trailer with bunk beds, make sure to take the following safety considerations into account.
Limit Top Bunks to a Kid Over 6
Many travel trailers come with a bunk bed on top of the other. It is highly recommended to never allow a child younger than six in the top bunk. They have a risk of falling as they have not developed the coordination required to climb safely.
Ban Playing on Beds
Bunk beds are not trampolines. Therefore, never let your children play and jump on the bunk beds to prevent accidents.
Install a Guardrail
The space between the side of the bunk and the guardrail should not exceed three and a half inches. It is extremely important to keep the child from rolling under the guardrail while sleeping. In case there is more space, all you need is a mattress pad to fix this problem.
Now, the question that arises is, which one should you go for? To help you out, we have drawn a detailed comparison of both types of travel trailers.
Similarities
First, let’s see how they are similar to each other.
Travel Trailers
Families use both types for traveling while retaining the residential feel. They are equipped with all the essential amenities to make sure that you won’t miss your home on a trip.
Great Sleeping Capacity
Whether you pick a travel trailer with a bunk bed or a bunkhouse, one thing you will get is amazing sleeping capacity. Both models are designed to easily sleep from eight to ten people, making them suitable for big families.
Dissimilarities
These travel trailers differ from each other in the following ways.
Layout
Bunk beds are generally considered to be a part of the slide-out. They are present at the rear of the camper, with one on top of the other. On the other hand, a bunkhouse is a private or semi-private area with a cabinet or seating underneath.
Flexibility
A bunkhouse tends to be more flexible than bunk beds as the seating underneath can be easily converted to a bed when needed. This feature adds flexibility to space.
Travel Trailers with Bunk Beds - FAQs
With so many models available, you are bound to have various questions in your mind, especially if you are unable to decide on a product. To help you out, we have tried to answer some of the frequently asked queries users have.
Let’s get started!
Are Bunk Beds in a Travel Trailer Safe For Adults?
Yes, the bunks beds in a travel trailer are safe for adults. Generally, the trailers are equipped with metal bunk beds featuring industrial strength. They are sturdy and have all the essential safety features so you can enjoy a sound sleep. Before investing, make sure bunk beds are long and wide enough to avoid any inconvenience.
Does a Bunk Bed Need a Boxspring?
A box spring is not essential for a bunk bed. They are bulky and dangerous. Only beds with collapsible metal designs require a boxspring. It is, therefore, recommended not to use one in your bunk bed. Instead, you can go for a mattress base made of plywood or a bunkie board.
How Much Headroom Do You Need For a Bunk Bed?
Depending on the height of your camper, there should be at least 32 to 36 inches of space between the top of the bunk and the ceiling. It is extremely important to prevent any bumps during the ride. This way, you can make the most of your journey without any inconvenience.
What Size Are Bunk Beds in a Camper?
The bed size can affect your sleep quality. Bunk beds are available in different sizes to meet the demands of customers. These beds can range from 28 inches by 75 inches to 40 inches by 80 inches. The most commonly available sizes are 28 x 75 inches. 30 x 75 inches, 30 x 80 inches, 34 x 75 inches, and 35 x 79 inches.
What is a Bunkhouse Travel Trailer?
A bunkhouse travel trailer is a type of RV that features a floorplan equipped with at least two bunk beds in a room. This room is generally located at the vehicle’s rear, and it can easily have up to four beds. Based on the layout, the bunkhouse may have its own entertainment center and even a bathroom.
Conclusion
A reliable travel trailer with bunk beds can be a great companion for your family on all adventures. Finding the best model depends on your needs and personal preference.
We recommend all of the above models, but there are more to choose from, and hopefully, this article gave you some good pointers in choosing the right model.
We're sure, however, that whichever travel trailer with bunk beds you go for, you'll be starting a new journey of making lifetime memories with your family. Happy camping!
