Platform beds are a type of bed that is common for nomads living in minivans, SUVs, and pickup trucks, especially for removable builds. It may be a simple elevated platform for the mattress with storage underneath, but often includes access doors to make it easier to get to items stored below.
Terminology
In the context of this wiki, platform beds are removable furniture with legs or other supports that give them their height. For beds that are attached to the walls of the vehicle and form a platform, see fixed beds. The space underneath the platform is sometimes called the garage (if larger) or the basement (if smaller)
Purchased platform bed options
Adjustable-leg cots are an easy solution, but they can be expensive and may not be as sturdy or durable as other options. You may be able to find custom-designed platforms that fit your vehicle, but these will also probably be fairly expensive.
DIY platform bed options
For a quick bed platform, you can purchase dunnage racks or adjustable shelving racks from a supply company. These are very sturdy. Depending on the amount of space between bars, you may need a board on top of the rack under your mattress, but see mattress ventilation for important information.
In vehicles that are SUV-size or larger, you may be able to use a chaise lounge chair as a platform, as in this example. Other platform ideas include shortening the legs of an old table, or attaching legs to an old door; you can use different length legs to fit your vehicle to make a perfectly level bed.
If your vehicle floor or cargo area is flat, you can build a bed out of strong plastic totes or buckets that are used for storage underneath, and place your mattress on top of that.
To make the edge of the platform softer, purchase lengths of foam pipe insulation or pool noodles sliced lengthwise, and affix them to the edge.[1]
