Best Car Camping Mattress for Subaru Outback: Complete Sleep Setup Guide
Introduction: Why the Outback is a Car Camping Favorite
The Subaru Outback has earned legendary status among car campers, and for good reason. This wagon-based crossover offers one of the flattest, most spacious sleeping surfaces in its class, combined with the all-wheel drive capability to reach remote camping spots that many vehicles can't access. For solo adventurers and couples seeking vehicle-based camping, the Outback often tops recommendation lists.
What makes the Outback particularly well-suited for sleeping is its long, relatively flat cargo area when the rear seats fold. Unlike SUVs with significant gaps or slopes, the Outback's wagon design creates a nearly level surface that requires minimal modification for comfortable overnight use. The width accommodates two average-sized adults, though admittedly cozily, making it practical for couples as well as solo campers.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about selecting and setting up a mattress for Outback camping. From understanding the exact dimensions across generations to choosing the right mattress type for your needs, you'll find practical, tested advice for creating a comfortable sleep setup in your Outback.
Subaru Outback Cargo Dimensions Across Generations
The Outback has evolved through multiple generations, and while the overall character remains consistent, dimensions vary enough to affect mattress selection. Understanding your specific Outback's measurements ensures proper mattress sizing.
The sixth-generation Outback (2020-present) offers approximately 75-77 inches of length with the rear seats folded flat, measuring from the back of the front seats to the closed tailgate. Width measures about 43-44 inches at the widest point, narrowing to approximately 40 inches at floor level between the wheel wells. Height from cargo floor to ceiling provides roughly 35-37 inches of headroom.
The fifth-generation Outback (2015-2019) has very similar dimensions, with length around 73-75 inches and comparable width. These measurements make mattress designed for newer Outbacks generally compatible with this generation.
Older fourth-generation Outbacks (2010-2014) are slightly smaller, with length around 71-73 inches. This difference matters when selecting mattresses at the longer end of the sizing range. Always measure your specific vehicle before purchasing.
- Sixth-gen (2020+): 75-77" long, 43-44" wide, 35-37" height
- Fifth-gen (2015-2019): 73-75" long, similar width
- Fourth-gen (2010-2014): 71-73" long
- Width narrows at floor level (wheel wells)
- Seats fold relatively flat compared to SUVs
- Minimal gap between seat backs and cargo floor
- Front seats can slide forward for more length
- Tall individuals (6'2"+) may need diagonal sleeping
- Two adults fit width-wise but cozily
- Measure your specific vehicle before buying mattress
Top Mattress Options for Subaru Outback
These mattresses work particularly well with the Outback's dimensions and camping use case.
Luno Life Air Mattress for Subaru Outback
Designed specifically for the Outback, the Luno provides an excellent fit that accounts for the vehicle's specific contours. The dual-chamber design allows independent firmness adjustment for each side—valuable for couples. The included pump plugs into the 12V outlet for easy inflation. Build quality is excellent, and the sizing is precise for Outback dimensions. For serious Outback campers, this is often the top recommendation.
Exped MegaMat Auto
This premium self-inflating mattress provides home-bed comfort in vehicle applications. The thick foam core offers exceptional cushioning, and the self-inflating design means no pump is required. The mattress fits well in Outbacks with some room to spare. The price point is premium but reflects genuine quality. For those prioritizing sleep quality above all else, the MegaMat delivers.
Forliver SUV Air Mattress
This budget-friendly option works well across SUVs and wagons including the Outback. The thickened design provides adequate cushioning, and the included electric pump simplifies setup. Two air pillows are included. The universal sizing fits the Outback adequately, though not as precisely as vehicle-specific options. Excellent value for occasional campers.
ZOOOBELIVES Extra Thick Self-Inflating Mattress
This self-inflating pad strikes a balance between packability and comfort. At 3+ inches thick when inflated, it provides meaningful cushioning. The self-inflating design expands when valve is opened, with option to add air for firmness adjustment. Packs down reasonably small for non-use periods. Works well for Outback owners who want foam comfort with moderate packability.
- Luno: Outback-specific fit, dual chamber, premium quality
- Exped MegaMat: premium self-inflating, exceptional comfort
- Forliver: budget-friendly, includes pump and pillows
- ZOOOBELIVES: self-inflating, balance of comfort and packability
- Vehicle-specific fits eliminate sizing guesswork
- Self-inflating options offer foam comfort without complexity
- Air mattresses provide firmness adjustment
- Consider camping frequency when choosing quality level
Creating the Optimal Sleep Setup
Beyond the mattress, several factors affect your Outback sleeping experience.
Prepare the sleeping surface properly. Fold rear seats completely using the release levers. Remove rear headrests and store them to create a flatter surface. The Outback's seat backs fold relatively flat, but there may be a slight transition where they meet the cargo floor. A folded blanket over this transition smooths the sleeping surface.
Position for maximum comfort. Most Outback sleepers find head-toward-front orientation works best, taking advantage of the slight incline of the cargo area. Sliding front seats forward provides additional length for taller campers. Solo sleepers can angle diagonally to maximize personal length.
Window coverings matter for privacy and temperature. Purpose-made Outback window covers or cut-to-fit reflective sunshades block outside view and help regulate temperature. The Outback's extensive glass means significant heat gain in summer and heat loss in winter without coverage.
- Fold seats using release levers
- Remove rear headrests for flatter surface
- Address seat-to-floor transition with blanket
- Sleep with head toward front of vehicle
- Slide front seats forward for more length
- Diagonal sleeping for maximum personal length
- Window covers essential for privacy
- Reflective covers help temperature regulation
- Extensive glass means significant heat transfer
- Ventilation important even with covers
Ventilation and Climate Management
The Outback's wagon design affects how you manage airflow and temperature while sleeping.
Ventilation prevents condensation and ensures fresh air. Crack windows on opposite sides for cross-ventilation. The Outback's windows extend far back, providing good options for rear ventilation. Window rain guards allow windows to stay cracked during rain without water entry.
Temperature management in the Outback uses the moderately sized interior to your advantage. In cold weather, your body heat warms the space relatively quickly. In warm weather, the glass area can cause significant heat buildup; park in shade, use reflective covers, and wait until evening to set up.
Condensation management is important because the wagon design can trap moisture. Cracking windows helps moisture escape. Avoid cooking inside or bringing wet gear into the sleeping area. If condensation forms, wipe it down before it drips onto bedding.
- Crack opposite windows for cross-ventilation
- Outback windows extend back for rear ventilation options
- Rain guards enable ventilation during rain
- Body heat warms space in cold weather
- Glass causes heat buildup in warm weather
- Park in shade during hot weather
- Wait until evening to set up in heat
- Crack windows to prevent condensation
- Avoid cooking inside sleeping area
- Wipe condensation before it drips
Frequently Asked Questions
What size mattress fits in a Subaru Outback?
The Outback accommodates mattresses approximately 73-77 inches long and 42-44 inches wide, depending on generation. A cot-sized or twin-narrow mattress works well. Outback-specific mattresses are sized precisely. When using universal mattresses, verify dimensions against your specific Outback generation.
Can two people sleep comfortably in a Subaru Outback?
Yes, though it's cozy. The 43-44 inch width provides about 21-22 inches per person—narrower than twin beds but workable for couples comfortable sleeping close. For regular two-person camping, some couples find it intimate and comfortable; others prefer vehicles with more width.
Is the Outback better for car camping than the Forester?
The Outback offers more length due to its wagon design, making it better for taller individuals. The Forester offers more headroom due to its SUV body. Width is similar. For sleeping length, Outback usually wins. For sitting up in bed, Forester usually wins. Both are excellent car camping vehicles.
Do I need a sleeping platform in my Outback?
Not necessarily. The Outback's seats fold relatively flat, making a platform less essential than in vehicles with uneven cargo floors. However, platforms can provide perfectly flat surfaces and under-bed storage. Many Outback campers sleep comfortably with just a mattress on folded seats.
How tall can you be to sleep in a Subaru Outback?
Most people up to about 6 feet can sleep comfortably in the standard orientation. Taller individuals can sleep diagonally or slide front seats forward to gain inches. At 6'4"+, even with adjustments, sleeping straight may be challenging. Try before committing to extended trips.
Should I use an air mattress or foam in my Outback?
Both work well. Air mattresses pack smaller and allow firmness adjustment. Foam or self-inflating pads provide consistent comfort without leak risk. For occasional camping with limited storage, air mattresses shine. For frequent camping prioritizing sleep quality, foam often wins.
How do I deal with the gap between seats and cargo floor?
Place a folded blanket, yoga mat, or thin foam pad over the transition point before laying your main mattress. This smooths the ridge and prevents feeling it through thinner mattresses. Some owners create custom foam inserts for this purpose.
Is the Subaru Outback good for cold weather camping?
Yes, with proper preparation. The manageable interior volume warms with body heat. Insulated window covers retain warmth. A sleeping bag rated for expected temperatures keeps you comfortable. Add insulation beneath your mattress to prevent cold from the floor reaching you.
What accessories help with Outback camping?
Useful additions include: window covers for privacy and insulation, a battery-powered fan for airflow, interior LED lights, a small organizer for nighttime essentials, and a cargo liner to protect the vehicle. Many owners add rain guards for ventilation during rain.
Can I run the Outback's engine for heat overnight?
You can idle for heat, but this consumes fuel and produces exhaust. Never idle in enclosed spaces or with exhaust blocked. A better approach is proper cold-weather sleeping gear: rated sleeping bag, insulated mattress pad, and window covers. These provide warmth without engine running.
How do I keep my gear organized when the Outback is set up for sleeping?
With the cargo area as sleeping space, gear storage becomes challenging. Use the front passenger area, store items in bags that can be moved outside, or build a simple platform that provides under-bed storage. Some owners use rooftop storage to free interior space.
Is the Outback XT better for camping than the regular Outback?
The XT has a turbocharged engine for more power but the same interior dimensions as regular Outbacks. For camping comfort, they're identical. The XT's power is useful for mountain driving or towing camping gear. Choose based on driving needs, not camping needs.