Best Car Mattress for Subaru Forester: Complete Guide to Sleeping in Your Forester
Introduction: Why the Subaru Forester is Perfect for Car Camping
The Subaru Forester has earned its reputation as one of the best vehicles for car camping and sleeping, and for good reason. This compact SUV strikes an ideal balance between daily drivability and adventure capability that few competitors can match. With its generous cargo area, standard all-wheel drive, and practical interior design, the Forester has become the vehicle of choice for everyone from weekend warriors to full-time nomads who call their car home.
What makes the Forester particularly well-suited for sleeping is its nearly flat cargo floor when the rear seats are folded down. Unlike many SUVs that create awkward angles or significant gaps, the Forester's 60/40 split rear seats fold to create a sleeping surface that requires minimal modification for comfortable overnight use. The boxy shape of the cargo area maximizes usable space, and the relatively low cargo floor height makes getting in and out easier than taller SUVs.
The Forester's popularity among car campers means there's a robust market of accessories and mattresses specifically designed for this vehicle. From custom-cut foam pads to purpose-built inflatable mattresses, you'll find more options for the Forester than almost any other vehicle in its class. This guide will help you navigate these options and find the perfect sleeping solution for your Forester adventures, whether you're planning occasional overnight stops or extended living out of your vehicle.
Subaru Forester Cargo Dimensions: What You're Working With
Before selecting a mattress, you need to understand the exact dimensions of your Forester's sleeping area. While measurements vary slightly between model years and whether you have the standard or touring trim, the basic dimensions remain consistent across the current generation (2019-present) and are similar to previous generations.
With the rear seats folded flat, the Forester offers approximately 76 inches of length from the back of the front seats to the closed rear hatch. This is enough length for most adults up to about 6 feet 2 inches to sleep comfortably without their feet hitting the hatch. Taller individuals can gain several additional inches by sliding the front seats forward, though this may compromise next-day driving comfort if you're traveling solo.
The width of the cargo area measures approximately 42-44 inches at its widest point between the wheel wells. However, the actual usable width varies depending on the depth of your mattress. At floor level, the wheel wells intrude into the cargo space, narrowing the width to about 38-40 inches. As you move higher off the floor, the available width increases. This is an important consideration when choosing mattress thickness: a thicker mattress not only provides more cushioning but also raises you above the narrowest point of the wheel wells.
The height from the cargo floor to the ceiling is approximately 32-35 inches depending on the model year and whether you have a panoramic sunroof. This leaves adequate room for most people to sit up on a 4-inch mattress, though taller individuals may find their head brushing the ceiling. If headroom is a priority, you may need to compromise on mattress thickness or accept that sitting fully upright won't be possible.
One feature that makes the Forester particularly car-camping friendly is the flat floor that results when the seats are folded. The seat backs fold to create a nearly level surface with the cargo floor, requiring minimal leveling or gap-filling compared to other vehicles. However, there is typically a slight incline from rear to front, with the cargo area sitting an inch or two higher than the folded seat backs.
- Total length with seats folded: approximately 76 inches
- Width at widest point: 42-44 inches
- Width at floor level (between wheel wells): 38-40 inches
- Height to ceiling: 32-35 inches
- Slight incline from rear to front (1-2 inches)
- Minimal gap between folded seats and cargo floor
- Front seats can slide forward for additional length
- Wheel wells narrow the sleeping surface at floor level
- Headrests should be removed for flat sleeping surface
- Measurements vary slightly between model years and trims
Top Mattress Picks Specifically Designed for Subaru Forester
The Forester's popularity among car campers has spawned a range of mattresses specifically designed for its dimensions. These purpose-built options often fit better than generic car camping mattresses and take into account the Forester's specific cargo area shape, including the wheel well intrusions and the slight incline of the sleeping surface.
Car Air Mattress for Subaru Forester 2025 - Thickened Design
This mattress is engineered specifically for the 2025 Forester's cargo dimensions, with a thickened design that provides superior cushioning while accounting for the vehicle's specific contours. The inflatable design allows for adjustable firmness, so you can dial in exactly the support level you prefer. The mattress includes a portable carrying bag and integrated pump, making setup and teardown quick and convenient. The flocked top surface prevents your sleeping bag or sheets from sliding around during the night, a common complaint with cheaper air mattresses.
YWGMGJND Car Mattress for Subaru Forester VI 2024-2026
Designed for the latest generation Forester, this multifunctional inflatable mattress addresses the specific dimensions of the 2024-2026 model years. What sets this option apart is its attention to the cargo area's unique shape, with contoured edges that maximize sleeping surface while fitting properly within the wheel wells. The included accessories make it a complete sleep system rather than just a mattress. Multiple color options let you coordinate with your interior, and the durable construction is built to withstand regular use over years of adventures.
Dyale Inflatable Car Air Mattress for Subaru Forester
The Dyale mattress offers a versatile back seat compatible design with a collapsible construction that makes storage easy when not in use. This option is particularly well-suited for Forester owners who use their vehicle for daily driving and only occasionally set up for camping, as it packs down small enough to live in your cargo area without consuming significant space. The inflation system is straightforward, and the mattress holds air well overnight, addressing one of the most common complaints about cheaper inflatable options.
YCLNFC Car Inflatable Mattress for Forester SK SJ SH SG (2003-2024)
For owners of older Forester generations, the YCLNFC mattress is designed to fit models from 2003 through 2024, covering the SG, SH, SJ, and SK generations. This broader compatibility is possible because Subaru has maintained relatively consistent cargo dimensions across Forester generations, even as the exterior design has evolved. The thickened construction provides comfortable sleeping surface while the durable materials stand up to regular use. This is an excellent choice for owners of pre-owned Foresters who want a quality sleeping solution without paying for features designed for the newest models.
- Forester-specific mattresses account for wheel well intrusions
- Inflatable options allow firmness adjustment
- Check model year compatibility before purchasing
- Flocked surfaces prevent sleeping bag sliding
- Look for included pumps and carrying cases
- Collapsible designs save space when not in use
- Thicker designs (4+ inches) provide better comfort
- Consider color coordination with interior
- Verify dimensions match your specific Forester generation
- Read reviews from other Forester owners specifically
Creating the Optimal Sleeping Setup in Your Forester
Having the right mattress is only part of creating a comfortable sleeping setup in your Forester. The overall configuration, from how you prepare the sleeping surface to where you position your gear, significantly impacts your sleep quality. This section walks through the complete process of setting up your Forester for overnight sleeping.
Start by preparing the cargo area properly. Remove the cargo cover and any items stored in the under-floor compartment, as the weight of the mattress and your body will compress these. Fold the rear seats fully flat using the release levers located at the top of each seat back. On most Foresters, you'll want to remove the rear headrests entirely rather than just lowering them, as even lowered headrests can create uncomfortable bumps under your mattress.
The slight height difference between the folded seat backs and the cargo floor is one of the few imperfections in the Forester's sleeping surface. This gap typically measures 1-2 inches and creates a noticeable transition point under your mattress. You can address this by placing a folded blanket, yoga mat, or thin foam pad over this transition zone before laying down your main mattress. This creates a more level surface and prevents you from feeling the edge as you move during the night.
Consider the orientation of your sleeping position carefully. Most Forester sleepers find that sleeping with their head toward the front of the vehicle and feet toward the rear hatch works best. This orientation takes advantage of the full length of the cargo area and positions your head at the slightly higher end of the natural incline. If you're particularly tall, you may need to angle your body diagonally to maximize length, or slide the front seats as far forward as they'll go.
Window coverings are essential for both privacy and temperature control. Purpose-made Forester window covers or cut-to-fit reflective sunshades block outside light and prying eyes while also insulating against temperature extremes. The Forester's expansive glass area means significant heat gain on sunny days and heat loss on cold nights without proper coverage. Covering all windows also signals to passersby that your vehicle is set up for sleeping rather than simply parked, reducing the likelihood of someone attempting to look inside.
- Remove cargo cover and under-floor items before setup
- Fold rear seats completely flat using release levers
- Remove rear headrests entirely for smooth surface
- Address the seat-to-cargo floor transition with blanket or pad
- Sleep with head toward front of vehicle for best positioning
- Slide front seats forward for additional length if needed
- Use window coverings for privacy and temperature control
- Keep frequently needed items within arm's reach from sleeping position
- Consider a small organizing bin for nighttime essentials
- Crack windows for ventilation even in cold weather
Ventilation, Climate Control, and Comfort Optimization
Sleeping in an enclosed vehicle presents unique climate control challenges that affect your comfort and, importantly, your safety. The Forester's relatively generous interior volume helps compared to smaller vehicles, but proper ventilation and temperature management remain essential for quality sleep.
Ventilation is non-negotiable when sleeping in any vehicle. During sleep, you exhale moisture and carbon dioxide that accumulate in the enclosed space. Without adequate ventilation, you'll wake up to a foggy, stuffy interior with condensation covering every surface. At minimum, crack two windows on opposite sides of the vehicle to allow cross-ventilation. Window rain guards, also called vent visors, allow you to leave windows cracked even during rain without water entering the vehicle.
For Forester owners who frequently sleep in their vehicles, aftermarket window screens are a worthwhile investment. These screens allow maximum airflow while keeping insects out, enabling you to open windows wider on mild nights. Some screens are magnetic for easy installation and removal, while others are custom-fitted to the Forester's window openings for a more permanent solution.
Managing temperature in your Forester requires planning based on expected conditions. In warm weather, your priorities are maximizing airflow and minimizing heat buildup. Park in shade whenever possible, use reflective window covers during the day, and wait until after sunset to set up for sleeping. A small battery-powered fan can make a significant difference in air circulation and perceived temperature.
Cold weather sleeping in the Forester is more comfortable than you might expect, thanks to the well-insulated body and manageable interior volume. Your body heat, even during sleep, will raise the interior temperature significantly compared to outside air. However, you'll need appropriate insulation both above and below you. Your mattress provides insulation from the cold floor, but you may need additional closed-cell foam beneath the mattress in temperatures below freezing. Above, a sleeping bag rated for the expected low temperatures keeps you warm without relying on the vehicle's heater.
The Forester's engine can provide heat if necessary, but running the engine overnight requires careful attention to carbon monoxide safety. Park in open areas with no obstructions near the exhaust pipe, and never run the engine in enclosed spaces like garages. Consider a battery-powered carbon monoxide detector as an essential safety item if you ever plan to run the engine while sleeping.
- Crack at least two windows for cross-ventilation always
- Window rain guards allow ventilation during rain
- Aftermarket window screens enable wider window openings
- Park in shade to reduce heat buildup in warm weather
- Use reflective window covers during daytime parking
- Battery-powered fans improve air circulation significantly
- Your body heat noticeably warms the interior in cold weather
- Add closed-cell foam pad beneath mattress for cold weather insulation
- Use sleeping bag appropriate for expected temperature range
- Never run engine in enclosed spaces; use CO detector if running engine
Building a Semi-Permanent Sleeping Platform
Many Forester owners who regularly sleep in their vehicles opt for a semi-permanent sleeping platform rather than simply laying a mattress on the folded seats. A platform provides a completely flat sleeping surface, creates storage space beneath, and can be quickly removed when you need full cargo capacity. While this requires more initial effort than just buying a mattress, the long-term comfort benefits are substantial.
The basic concept of a sleeping platform is straightforward: create a raised, flat surface that spans the cargo area at a height that clears the folded seats and wheel wells. This eliminates the transition between seats and cargo floor, smooths out the wheel well intrusions, and typically raises the sleeping surface to a more comfortable height for getting in and out. The space beneath the platform becomes valuable storage for gear, bedding, and supplies.
Most DIY Forester platforms use plywood as the primary surface material, typically 3/4-inch for adequate strength and rigidity. The platform can be built as a single piece that tips up for access to storage beneath, or as multiple sections that remove completely. Multiple sections are easier to handle and allow partial removal when you need some cargo space but want to keep part of the platform installed.
Supporting the platform requires some creative engineering based on your specific Forester model. Common approaches include legs that rest on the cargo floor, supports that hook over the seat-back mounting points, or a frame that rests on the wheel wells. The goal is a stable, level surface that doesn't shift or wobble when you move around on the mattress above.
Once your platform is built, you can use a thinner mattress than you would directly on the folded seats. A 2-3 inch memory foam or self-inflating pad on top of a smooth plywood surface often provides more comfort than a 4-inch mattress on the uneven seat-back surface. This saves money on the mattress, reduces the total height of your sleeping system, and makes storage and handling easier.
- Platforms create perfectly flat sleeping surface
- Storage space beneath platform adds functionality
- 3/4-inch plywood provides strength without excessive weight
- Multiple sections easier to handle than single piece
- Support system varies based on vehicle configuration
- Thinner mattress works well on smooth platform surface
- Platforms can be removed for full cargo capacity when needed
- Consider folding or hinged designs for storage access
- Add carpet or fabric topping to prevent plywood splinters
- Ensure platform is stable before relying on it for sleeping
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the exact dimensions I need for a Forester mattress?
For current generation Foresters (2019-present), target a mattress approximately 75 inches long and 40-42 inches wide for the best fit. The length allows for the full cargo area with seats folded, while the width accounts for wheel well intrusions at floor level. Older Foresters have similar dimensions, varying by 1-2 inches between generations. Always measure your specific vehicle before purchasing, as model year and trim level can affect exact dimensions.
Can two people sleep comfortably in a Subaru Forester?
Two average-sized adults can sleep in a Forester, though it's definitely cozy. The 42-inch width provides about 21 inches per person, which is narrower than most twin beds. Couples who sleep closely together find this manageable, while those who spread out during sleep may struggle. Sleeping head-to-toe or diagonally can provide more personal space but isn't comfortable for most couples. For regular two-person use, the larger Outback offers more width.
How do I deal with the slope in the Forester's cargo area?
The Forester's cargo area slopes slightly downward from front to back. To avoid sleeping with your head lower than your feet, orient yourself with your head toward the front of the vehicle. If the slope is noticeable enough to bother you, park with the front of the car slightly uphill to level out the sleeping surface. Some owners use leveling blocks under the rear tires to achieve a more level sleeping position.
Should I get a foam mattress or inflatable for my Forester?
Both work well; the choice depends on your priorities. Foam mattresses, whether memory foam or high-density, provide consistent comfort without air loss concerns but take up more storage space when not in use. Inflatable mattresses pack down small and allow firmness adjustment but can lose air overnight and are vulnerable to punctures. For frequent car camping, self-inflating pads offer a good compromise with foam comfort and reasonable packability.
How cold can I sleep in my Forester?
With proper preparation, people regularly sleep in Foresters at temperatures well below freezing. Your foam mattress provides crucial insulation from the cold floor, and your body heat will raise interior temperatures by 10-20 degrees above outside air. However, you need appropriate sleeping bag rated for the expected low, insulated window covers, and adequate ventilation despite the cold. Below about 20°F, most people find vehicle camping without auxiliary heat challenging.
Will sleeping in my Forester damage the interior?
With reasonable precautions, no. Use a moisture barrier beneath your mattress to protect against condensation and sweat reaching the carpet. Ensure proper ventilation to prevent moisture buildup that can cause mold or mildew. Avoid eating in the sleeping area to prevent crumbs and spills. Remove your sleeping setup periodically to clean and inspect the cargo area. Many owners use their Foresters for car camping for years without interior damage.
Can I run the Forester's heater overnight while sleeping?
You can idle the engine to run the heater, but this requires careful attention to safety. Carbon monoxide from the exhaust can accumulate around and enter the vehicle, especially if parked near walls or with snow blocking the exhaust. Park in open areas, ensure the exhaust pipe is clear, and use a battery-powered carbon monoxide detector. Even with precautions, many experienced car campers avoid running the engine overnight and instead rely on appropriate cold-weather sleeping gear.
Do I need to remove the rear seats to sleep in my Forester?
No, the Forester's rear seats fold flat without removal. The 60/40 split design allows you to fold both sections, creating the full sleeping surface, or fold only one side if you need to carry a rear passenger. The folded seats create a nearly flat surface that's suitable for sleeping with minimal additional preparation. Removing the seats entirely would provide a slightly larger space but isn't necessary for comfortable sleeping.
What's the best way to cover the Forester's windows for privacy?
Several options work well: custom-fit window shades designed for the Forester, cut-to-fit reflective sunshades from any auto store, fabric curtains attached with suction cups or magnets, or removable reflective insulation panels. Custom-fit options look best and are most convenient but cost more. DIY reflective insulation panels provide excellent thermal performance and privacy at minimal cost. Covering all glass, including the windshield, provides maximum privacy and temperature control.
How do I keep my mattress from sliding around in the Forester?
Several strategies prevent mattress movement: choose a mattress with a non-slip bottom surface, place rubber shelf liner beneath the mattress, ensure the cargo area surface is clean and dry before setup, or build a simple frame from foam pool noodles or wood strips to contain the mattress edges. The Forester's relatively flat cargo floor helps compared to vehicles with more contoured surfaces, but some mattress movement is common and worth addressing for comfortable sleep.
Is the Forester better for car camping than the Outback?
Both vehicles are excellent for car camping, with trade-offs. The Forester offers more headroom due to its taller body, making it more comfortable for sitting up in bed. The Outback provides more length and width for the sleeping surface, better accommodating taller individuals or couples. The Forester's shorter overall length makes it easier to park and maneuver in tight camping spots. Most solo car campers find the Forester ideal, while couples often prefer the Outback's additional space.
What else do I need besides a mattress to sleep in my Forester?
Essential additions include a sleeping bag or bedding appropriate for expected temperatures, a pillow, window coverings for privacy and temperature control, and a ventilation strategy like rain guards or window screens. Highly recommended extras include a small battery-powered fan, LED interior lights, a small trash bag, water bottle, and any personal items you need within reach during the night. Many owners keep a dedicated car camping kit packed and ready to go.