RV King Size vs RV Short King Dimensions: The Complete Comparison

Choosing between an RV King and an RV Short King mattress is one of the most common sizing questions for Class A motorhome and luxury fifth wheel owners. This guide breaks down the exact dimensions, which RVs use each size, and how to choose the right one. For all RV and standard mattress dimensions in one place, see our complete mattress size guide. For a full overview of RV mattress types and buying considerations, see our RV mattress buying guide.

RV King vs RV Short King: The Key Dimensions

RV King: 72" wide x 80" long — 4 inches narrower than a residential king (76" x 80"), used in larger Class A motorhomes and luxury fifth wheels.

RV Short King: 72" wide x 75" long — same width as RV King but 5 inches shorter, used in RVs with slightly less bedroom length.

Both are significantly wider than an RV Short Queen (60" x 75") or RV Queen (60" x 80"). If you're comparing all RV sizes side by side, see our complete mattress size guide.

How to Measure Your RV Bed Space

Before ordering, always measure your existing mattress or bed platform: width at the widest point, length from headboard to footboard, note any corner cuts or radius cuts, and check overhead clearance for mattress thickness. See our RV mattress buying guide for detailed measurement instructions.

Best Mattress Options for RV King and Short King

Both RV King and RV Short King sizes are available in our air adjustable RV mattress lineup. Air adjustable mattresses are the premium choice for RV living — see our complete guide to RV air mattresses and our RV air mattress vs standard mattress comparison for a full breakdown.

• 8" RV Air Adjustable Mattress — available in RV King and Short King sizes, perfect for lower ceiling clearance
• 9.5" RV Air Adjustable Mattress — available in RV King and Short King sizes, ideal for full-time RVers wanting maximum comfort

Not sure which thickness is right? See our air mattress thickness guide. Not sure on firmness? See our mattress firmness guide.

RV King vs Short King: Which Should You Choose?

Choose RV King (72" x 80") if your RV bedroom has the full length and you want maximum sleeping surface. Most common in Class A diesel pushers and high-end fifth wheels.

Choose RV Short King (72" x 75") if your RV bedroom is slightly shorter. The 5-inch difference matters — always measure before ordering.

Sleep Quality on the Road

Regardless of which size you choose, upgrading from a stock RV mattress to a quality air adjustable system makes a dramatic difference in sleep quality. See our guides on the importance of proper sleep, what happens when you don't get enough sleep, and best positions for back pain for tips on getting the most out of your RV sleep setup. Also see our air adjustable mattress ultimate guide for a full breakdown of the technology.

FAQ:

Q: What are the exact dimensions of an RV King vs RV Short King mattress? A: An RV King is typically 72" x 80", matching a standard King in width but sometimes shorter in length. An RV Short King is usually 72" x 75" — five inches shorter, designed to fit slide-out bedrooms with tighter length constraints.

Q: Can I use a regular King mattress in an RV King space? A: Sometimes, but not always. A standard King is 76" x 80", which is wider than most RV King spaces (72"). Always measure your RV bedroom opening and frame before ordering.

Q: Is an RV Short King comfortable for tall sleepers? A: At 75" long, it may feel snug for anyone over 6'1".

Q: What mattress types work best in RV King and Short King sizes?

A: Foam or our RV Air adjustable mattresses as you can adjust the firmness on each side 

Explore Our RV Air Mattress Collection

Ready to upgrade? Browse our full RV air mattress collection for all available sizes including RV King and RV Short King. Both the 8" model and 9.5" model include dual wireless remotes, independent firmness control per side, and a 25-year warranty.