Can a Subaru Outback fit a mattress?
Yes. In current Subaru Outback models, you can usually fit a standard twin mattress with the rear seats folded, while a full, queen, or larger mattress is unlikely to lie flat in the cargo area. For larger sizes, consider alternative transport or methods.
Understanding the cargo footprint
The main measurements that determine mattress fit are the cargo length with the rear seats folded and the usable width of the cargo floor. In practice, Outback models offer roughly a 75-inch (about 6¼ feet) continuous cargo length when the rear seats are folded, and about 41 inches of usable width between the wheel wells. Those dimensions make a twin mattress the most realistic standard option for a flat, inside fit without disassembly. Larger mattresses typically exceed either the length or the width of the interior space, making a flat interior fit impractical.
With those constraints in mind, here is a quick guide to common mattress sizes and how they typically behave inside an Outback.
- Twin mattress (about 38 inches by 75 inches): generally fits with the rear seats folded, either lengthwise along the cargo floor or diagonally to optimize space.
- Full mattress (about 54 inches by 75 inches): unlikely to fit flat due to width; diagonal placement is constrained by interior width and may not be feasible.
- Queen mattress (about 60 inches by 80 inches): typically does not fit; length exceeds the interior depth and width is wider than the available space.
- King mattress (about 76 inches by 80 inches): does not fit; both dimensions exceed the typical interior footprint.
In practice, a twin mattress is the only standard size that reliably fits inside an Outback with the rear seats down. Fulls, queens, and larger mattresses usually require alternative transport or breaking the load into multiple pieces (such as rolled foam toppers) rather than attempting to lay a full-size mattress flat inside the cabin.
Tips for loading and securing a mattress
These practical tips help maximize space and keep the load secure when you’re transporting a mattress in an Outback.
- Fold the rear seats completely flat to extend the cargo floor and achieve the longest possible storage length.
- Place blankets or a tarp over the floor to protect the upholstery, and use straps or bungee cords to secure the mattress so it doesn’t shift during transit.
- For a twin mattress, place it lengthwise along the cargo length first; a slight diagonal can help if the width is tight.
- Consider rolling or folding components only if the mattress is designed to be compressed; otherwise, a cut-to-length foam topper can be a practical workaround.
- If you regularly need to move larger mattresses, evaluate alternatives such as a roof rack with a cargo box or renting a larger vehicle for the move.
Always measure your specific mattress and compare to your vehicle’s exact interior dimensions. If you frequently move full- or queen-size mattresses, a larger vehicle or dedicated moving equipment may be the more reliable option.
Conclusion and practical takeaway
Bottom line: a Subaru Outback is well-suited for transporting a twin mattress when the rear seats are folded. Moving larger mattresses typically requires nonstandard packing, potential alterations, or alternative transport. Plan ahead by measuring the mattress and considering practical options for your moving needs.
Summary
The Outback can accommodate a twin mattress with the seats down, thanks to a substantial cargo length. Full, queen, and king sizes generally do not fit flat inside the cargo area. For larger loads, consider alternatives such as a roof rack, a hitch-mounted carrier, or a larger vehicle to ensure safe and efficient transport.
Can a queen size mattress fit in a Subaru?
Yes! But to be fair it was a new boxed memory foam mattress. You might be able to fit one in unboxed, if it's flexible enough, but likely not one with springs or a box spring.
Will a full mattress fit in a Subaru Outback?
No, a standard full-size mattress (53 inches wide) cannot fit completely inside a Subaru Outback because the narrowest part of the interior is approximately 42 inches, according to this Facebook post. However, it is possible to fit certain types of full-size mattresses, such as foam or inflatable ones, by folding the seats, with the hatch partially or fully open, and securing the mattress to the roof rack with straps.
Fitting a full-size mattress
- Foam or inflatable: You can fit a full-size foam or inflatable mattress inside if the seats are folded down and the hatch is open, but the mattress will likely overhang the rear.
- Securing the mattress: To make it drivable, you must securely strap the mattress to the roof rack, using the doors to pass the straps through if necessary.
- Safety precautions: Drive slowly, keep to back roads, and be sure to flag the overhanging portion of the mattress as required by law.
Alternative options
- Trimmed mattress: Consider trimming a larger foam mattress to better fit the interior space, as shown in this Facebook post.
- Twin mattress: A twin mattress (around 38 inches wide) will fit easily inside with room to spare for other items, as noted in this Baldwin Subaru blog post.
- Custom mattress: You can also get a custom-sized mattress designed specifically for the Outback to maximize the available space, according to Mattress Insider.
What can fit in a Subaru Outback?
Moving Stuff with the Subaru Outback
You can easily fit a twin mattress which is about 38 inches wide and 75 inches long. You can add the headboard, footboard, and rails along with the mattress. Dining tables, armchairs, bookcases, even two-seater sofas can all fit in the Outback's cargo area with the seats sown.
Can a Subaru Outback fit a twin mattress?
Yes, a standard twin mattress will fit in a Subaru Outback with the rear seats folded down. You may need to fold the seats completely and potentially slide the front seats forward to accommodate the length and width. For easier transport, consider a rolled-up memory foam or inflatable mattress, as they are more flexible and less bulky than a traditional mattress and box spring.
Tips for fitting a twin mattress
- Fold the seats: Fold down the rear seats to maximize the flat cargo area.
- Position the front seats: Slide the front seats forward to give you more room for the mattress to extend into the front of the car. You may need to tilt the passenger seat back a bit.
- Remove headrests: Taking the rear headrests out can provide a little more clearance.
- Consider mattress type: A rolled-up memory foam mattress or an inflatable air mattress is significantly easier to fit and transport than a traditional spring mattress, which can be very stiff.
- Secure it: Use straps to secure the mattress to the roof rack if it doesn't fit inside, or if you need to make sure it stays in place during the drive.
- Measure first: While a twin mattress fits, it's always a good idea to measure your specific mattress and car's interior before you go to the store.
