Elevator beds (also known as bed lifts) are a type of moveable bed that can be lifted up to the vehicle ceiling when not in use. This is one method to get additional use out of the limited space in a vehicle, but it does add some cost and complexity to the build.
Depending on the vehicle ceiling height, the space under the elevated bed may be fairly low; many people choose to put a seating area and/or dining table under the bed since it may be too low to walk comfortably. Elevated beds work best in high roof vans, box trucks, step vans, and other high-roof vehicles.
Disadvantages of elevator beds include:
- No space for upper cabinets since the bed moves up to the ceiling.
- The time or effort needed to raise and lower the bed each day might be an annoyance, especially if you have a manual lift.
- The lift adds complexity to your build which may increase cost or maintenance needs.
Examples: