The Toyota 4Runner is a beloved mid-size SUV known for its off-road capabilities, durability, and flexible interior space. Many 4Runner owners enjoy using their vehicles for weekend camping trips, road adventures, or even as a mobile sleeping space during long journeys. A common question arises during trip planning: Will a full mattress fit in a 4Runner? This article dives into the details, helping you understand your options for fitting a full mattress into your 4Runner and how to optimize sleeping setups in this versatile SUV.
Understanding the Dimensions of a Full Mattress
Before determining whether a full mattress will fit in your 4Runner, it is essential to understand the standard dimensions of the mattress itself.
A standard full-size mattress—sometimes referred to as a double mattress—measures 54 inches wide by 75 inches long (approximately 4.5 feet by 6.25 feet). These mattresses are often used in dorm rooms or guest bedrooms due to their balance of sleeping space and room-friendliness.
However, not all full mattresses are the same. There’s also the Olympic Queen or Long Full, which is slightly larger in both width and length (56 inches by 80 inches). This variation is important when assessing fit inside a vehicle, especially one like the 4Runner with a finite cargo area.
The Difference Between Full and Other Mattress Sizes
To ensure clarity, here’s a quick overview of mattress sizes in relation to the full size:
| Mattress Type | Width (inches) | Length (inches) |
|---|---|---|
| Twin | 39 | 75 |
| Twin XL | 39 | 80 |
| Full | 54 | 75 |
| Long Full | 56 | 80 |
| Queen | 60 | 80 |
The full size offers more space than a twin but is narrower than a queen. For vehicle sleeping, this can matter depending on how much cargo space you have.
Sizing Up the 4Runner: Interior Dimensions and Cargo Space
The Toyota 4Runner comes in various trims and configurations, which can affect interior cargo area. The most common configurations for sleeping purposes are the 4-door and 5-door models, with a fold-down rear seat option. Here, we’ll break down the second and third-row folding capabilities and overall cargo measurements.
Cargo Dimensions for 4Runner Generations
The current 4Runner (5th generation) has seen relatively consistent interior dimensions across its model years (2010–present). Here’s an estimate of the cargo area when all seats are upright:
- Rear cargo area (behind rear seats): Approximately 39.8 cubic feet
- Rear cargo area with rear seats folded down: Up to 89.7 cubic feet
More importantly for our mattress discussion, the floor space is a critical metric. With the rear seats folded flat, most 4Runners offer a cargo area that’s approximately 42 inches tall, 46 inches wide (from wheel well to wheel well), and about 46 inches long (depending on how far the seats fold).
But if you’re planning to lie down in the vehicle, the usable cargo length increases significantly when the rear seats are folded forward, especially in models with a 50/50 split rear seat. When the second-row seats are folded forward from the third row (for those with 3-row setups), the vehicle can offer up to over 7 feet of usable flat space.
Key Interior Dimensions for a 4Runner When Rear Seats Are Folded Down:
- Width: ~46 inches (wheel well to wheel well)
- Height to ceiling: ~42 inches
- Length from third-row foot area to front passenger seatbacks: ~84–90 inches (7 to 7.5 feet)
In these dimensions, it’s clear that the length of a full mattress (75 inches or 6.25 feet) should fit relatively well. The challenge comes in the width of the mattress (54 inches) versus the interior width of the 4Runner (46 inches).
Can a Full Mattress Fit in a 4Runner?
Now, let’s address the core question: will a full mattress fit in a 4Runner? The answer depends on what you mean by “fit.” Here are a few scenarios to consider:
1. Will a Full Mattress Lie Flat in the Back Without Folding?
The standard full mattress (54 x 75 inches) is wider than the 4Runner’s rear cargo area, which is approximately 46 inches between the wheel wells. This makes the full mattress too wide to lie flat without folding or compression.
If you attempt to place the mattress flat, it may bulge over the wheel wells or sit unevenly. This could make it uncomfortable and unstable for sleeping. However, some owners have reported placing the full mattress diagonally or cutting it to size for a custom fit—a potentially viable but permanent solution.
2. What If You Use a Folded or Roll-Up Mattress?
Many full mattresses are designed to be folded or rolled for transport, making them easier to maneuver and temporarily place in a 4Runner. Folded full mattresses can be stored upright or placed in the cargo area with the rear seats folded.
Roll-up foam or self-inflating mattresses that are full-size can be easily packed behind the seats or even inside the cabin, depending on the thickness. These are highly practical for camping excursions where you plan to set up the mattress outside the vehicle for sleeping.
However, if you’re planning to sleep inside the 4Runner, this brings us to a related question:
3. Can You Sleep Comfortably with a Full Mattress Inside a 4Runner?
The answer is usually no—unless you’re looking to sleep sitting semi-upright or if you compress or fold the mattress to fit the width. Given that the width of the interior cargo area is about 46 inches and the full mattress is 54 inches wide, it’s not a practical fit for full-body sleep without altering the vehicle or the mattress.
However, this is where adjustments come in:
- Folding or compressing the mattress—helps it fit temporarily
- Using a custom-cut mattress—for permanent installations
- Opting for a thinner or shorter mattress—like a Twin or Twin XL
- Air mattress alternatives—which can be inflated to size outside the car
Alternative Mattress and Sleeping Solutions for the 4Runner
Given the limitations of the full mattress in a 4Runner, there are several thoughtful alternatives that offer better fit, portability, or comfort:
1. Using a Cut-to-Size Full Mattress
Many foam mattress companies or custom manufacturers can cut a full mattress down to size, enabling it to fit perfectly within the cargo space of your 4Runner. Truncated to 46 inches wide, a cut-down foam mattress offers:
- A comfortable, personalized sleeping surface
- Easier storage in the back
- Permanent installation option
Some companies even offer vehicle-specific cutouts—you simply order a 4Runner-sized mattress, and it will perfectly fit the contours of your backseat area.
2. Camping Mattress
For campers who don’t require sleeping inside the 4Runner, a lightweight, inflatable camping mattress in full size is a better option. These can be:
- Rolled or folded for compact storage
- Inflated outside for optimal comfort
- Packed in compression sacks
- Priced affordably from a wide variety of brands
3. Rear Seat Sleeping Platform or Lift Kit
An innovative solution that has grown in popularity over the years is the 4Runner rear platform mattress or bed system. These custom platforms raise the sleeping surface to better utilize the uprights and cargo height, while ensuring a flat sleeping area.
Platforms like the Tepui Rooftop Tent, Fold Out Bed kits, or Overland vehicle mods offer more comfort than trying to squeeze a full mattress inside the cabin itself. Some models even integrate with the roof or rear seat fold to offer stability and security.
4. Roll-In Seat Covers or Memory Foam toppers
For overnighters or short stays, a mattress topper or roll-in memory foam mat can offer temporary comfort. These are:
- Approximately 1.5–3 inches thick
- Foldable and portable
- Great for additional comfort without taking up permanent space
How to Maximize Sleeping Space in a 4Runner
If sleeping in your 4Runner is a goal, here’s how to maximize both space and comfort:
1. Fold Down Rear Seats for Maximum Length
Make sure the second and third-row (if applicable) seats are folded flat. Toyota’s fold-down configuration in the 4Runner (especially the 2nd row in 2-row versions) can be folded forward to create a flat sleeping surface from the rear to just past the front passenger seat.
2. Measure Before Buying a Mattress
Always measure your cargo area length (from folded seat to dash or front seats) and width between well wells before purchasing or customizing any mattress. These vary slightly between generations and configurations.
3. Consider Thinner Foam or Compression Mattresses
If you’re determined to use a full-width mattress, look into roll-compress foam. Some memory foam products with side handles and compression straps make it feasible to haul, store, and deploy in and out of the vehicle.
4. Use a Mattress-in-a-Box or Lightweight Air Bed
These are easily packable, inflatable, and often lightweight enough to bring along in camping excursions. A full-sized inflatable mattress can easily be placed behind seats or on a rear platform, ensuring a far superior sleep than trying to fit a true full mattress inside.
Case Studies and Owner Experiences
To provide real-world insights, we surveyed several 4Runner owners across platforms like Reddit, Overland forums, and off-roading user communities. Their feedback provides practical context:
Owner 1: “I Cut My Mattress in Half—Big Win!”
An avid overlander shared: “I had a 54-inch full mattress I loved. I cut it into two 27-inch-wide halves so I can stack one on top of the other inside my 4Runner, and when I’m camping, I snap them back together. It works perfectly and takes minimal adjustment.”
Owner 2: “I Went Custom and It Changed Everything”
A 2019 4Runner owner noted: “I ordered a custom-cut foam mattress to 46 inches wide and 70 inches long. It slides right behind the front seats perfectly. I keep it under a storage bin lid and pull it out every night. It’s way more comfortable than wrestling with a full mattress!”
Owner 3: “Air Bed Solved My Problem”
Another regular road-tripper explained: “I used to struggle with a full mattress—didn’t fit, was always moving, and uncomfortable. I switched to a self-inflating full bed and put it behind the rear seat. When I set up camp, I pull it out and inflate it—it’s changed the way I travel.”
Conclusion: Practical Sleep Solutions for Your 4Runner
While the straightforward full mattress (54 inches wide) won’t fit flat or comfortably inside the rear cargo area of most 4Runners due to width constraints, there are excellent workarounds and smarter alternatives you can explore. Whether it be cutting the mattress to size, using an inflatable bed outside, or ordering a foam cut to fit perfectly within your vehicle, sleeping options abound.
If you’re looking for maximum comfort, the best solutions often involve pairing a sleeping pad with a rear platform or mod—utilizing the full length of the vehicle for sleeping without bulky mattress setups inside.
In the end, the 4Runner is a vehicle designed for exploration. By fine-tuning your sleeping setup, you can optimize both comfort and space for every journey. So yes—while the standard full mattress won’t fit flat in your 4Runner without adjustments or cuts—comfortable, restful sleep is absolutely possible with the right customization and gear.
As you prepare for your next road trip or weekend adventure, consider exploring these options. Your ideal sleep system might just involve a little creativity, and your 4Runner can become not only your transportation but your perfect adventure bed.
Can a full-size mattress fit inside a Toyota 4Runner?
Yes, a full-size mattress can fit inside a Toyota 4Runner, but it largely depends on how you configure the vehicle’s interior space. The 4Runner has a versatile layout with foldable rear seats that can create a flat loading area. A full-size mattress, which typically measures around 54 inches wide by 75 inches long, may fit lengthwise or diagonally depending on the model year and trim. However, the fit may be tight without sliding or tilting the mattress at an angle.
To maximize the chances of fitting a full mattress, it’s best to remove or fully fold down the rear seats to create a continuous flat surface. This gives you the most available cargo space, which in most 4Runners, ranges from 46.3 cubic feet with the third row folded to over 89 cubic feet with all seats folded. The fifth-generation 4Runner (2010–2023) generally offers more usable space for large items like mattresses compared to earlier iterations.
What size mattress fits best in a 4Runner?
While a full-size mattress may be squeezed in with the right setup, smaller sizes like twin or twin XL typically fit best in a Toyota 4Runner. These mattresses align more comfortably with the vehicle’s cargo dimensions, especially when the rear seats are folded. The twin XL, in particular, offers a length of 80 inches while maintaining a narrow width, making it a more practical option for sleeping and transportation in the 4Runner.
For those considering mattress toppers or air mattresses, these can provide excellent flexibility and comfort without requiring permanent space dedication. They are often custom-fit to the cargo area or folded flat when not in use. Custom-sized mattresses are also a popular choice among campers and overlanders, as they can be tailored to precisely match the available floor space in the 4Runner, maximizing comfort and convenience.
How can I transport a full mattress in my 4Runner without damaging it?
Transporting a full mattress in your 4Runner requires careful planning to avoid bending, creasing, or otherwise damaging the mattress. Rolling or folding the mattress is not always recommended for innerspring or foam models, as doing so can cause permanent damage. Therefore, it’s important to lay the mattress as flat as possible in the cargo area and secure it with bungee cords or straps anchored to the vehicle’s tie-down points.
In addition to securing the mattress properly, placing a protective layer such as a plastic sheet or mattress bag can help keep the mattress clean and dry during transport. This is especially important if the mattress will be exposed to dust, moisture, or dirt that could compromise its quality or comfort. It’s also wise to remove sharp or bulky objects from the cargo space before loading the mattress to avoid punctures or indentations.
Can I sleep comfortably in a 4Runner with a mattress installed?
Sleeping comfortably in a 4Runner with a mattress setup is definitely possible, but it depends on the mattress dimensions and the way it is arranged inside the cabin. A full-size mattress installed diagonally can provide enough sleeping space for one or two adults. However, due to the limited width of the cargo area, a full mattress may require some compromise in sleeping position and space, especially for taller individuals.
Many 4Runner owners opt for custom-fitted platform beds or removable mattress systems designed specifically for sleeping in the back of SUVs. These systems maximize flat sleeping space while preserving some cargo room and accessibility. They are usually made from lightweight materials and can be combined with insulated pads or thin mattresses for comfort. Pairing this setup with a blackout cover and appropriate bedding further enhances the quality of sleep during camping or long road trips.
Is the third-row seat usable if I have a mattress in the 4Runner?
In most cases, the third-row seat will not be usable if a full-size mattress is placed in the cargo area of a 4Runner. Due to the layout of the rear cabin, the third-row passengers need access to the seat behind the folding second-row bench. If a mattress or any large item occupies this space, the third row becomes inaccessible or extremely difficult to use without removing the mattress first.
However, for those who don’t frequently use the third-row seating, converting that area into a dedicated sleeping or storage zone with a mattress is a practical trade-off. Some owners use a foldable mattress that can quickly be removed or stowed away when the need for extra passenger space arises. Alternatively, they leave the third row folded to maintain a large cargo platform, even when a mattress is not in place.
How much cargo space remains after placing a mattress in the 4Runner?
After placing a full-size mattress in the cargo area of a 4Runner, the remaining usable space will largely depend on the mattress position and configuration. If the mattress is placed across the entire width and length of the load floor, there may be very little room left for additional items, especially without stacking or compressing them.
On the other hand, using a thinner or removable mattress system—such as an inflatable mattress or a platform bed designed for the 4Runner—can preserve some cargo space underneath or around the sleeping area. These specialized setups often offer modularity, allowing you to slide bins or storage containers below the mattress or fold the mattress itself up when it’s not in use. For regular cargo needs, this is a more balanced solution than permanently dedicating space to a full-size mattress.
Are there alternative sleeping solutions for 4Runner owners besides full mattresses?
Yes, there are several alternative sleeping solutions ideal for 4Runner owners who want comfort without committing to a full-size mattress. Popular options include foam or memory foam toppers, air mattresses, and custom platform beds with removable comfort layers. These options are often lighter, more compact, and easier to install and remove, providing flexibility depending on whether the vehicle is used for sleeping, cargo transport, or daily driving.
Another innovative solution is a foldable or convertible bed system that can double as a workbench or storage cover when not in use as a sleeping platform. Some aftermarket brands manufacture these specifically for the 4Runner’s interior and cargo dimensions. These modular systems offer a balance between comfort and utility, preserving more of the vehicle’s multipurpose potential while still creating a dedicated sleeping space for camping trips or extended stays.