Possibly The Smallest RV

Liz and I have spent a lot of time sleeping in my Honda Fit. We’ve been to DC, Mammoth Cave, Chillicothe, Caesar Creek, and Patapsco State Park.

Surprisingly, my diminutive car has just enough room for me to lie down… almost. We tried an air mattress for the last couple of years, and it has been OK. Air mattresses are just OK. We have had two that only lasted a few trips each. The first stopped holding air, and the second developed a huge lump that rolled me into the side of the car. Sleeping was possible, but inevitably resulted in aches the next day.

Aside from the discomfort of the air mattress, I couldn’t stretch out. Liz fit on the old mattress, but I had to bend my knees just a few inches to accommodate my height. With the seats all the way forward to fit the air mattress, there were these annoying empty spaces behind the seats that always threatened to swallow my pillow. The center console would act as a fulcrum where the mattress would rock each time one of us would shift our weight. After a couple years, I knew the problems and wanted to start working on a solution.

The idea was borne in the shower. I got out and immediately had to sketch it. The plan was to build a platform that provides a flat surface. To do that, I needed it six inches above the bed of my car so it would be above the center console. It also needed to extend to the full length when the seats are moved forward. To do that, I used a piano hinge and drawer slides. The drawers pull out to support the weight of the extension, and they provide some extra storage too.

On top of the platform is a twin size four-inch memory foam mattress. I was afraid this would not be a big enough cushion, but when it is on a flat surface, it is very comfortable. Paired with the mattress is our double-wide sleeping bag, which makes a cozy bed. I can finally stretch out, and shifting my weight won’t disturb the other half.

I cannot wait to take this out for some adventures this year.