====== Sleep system ======

Sleep systems((a term borrowed from preppers; for both groups beds are often compromises and serve multiple functions)) range from the very simple (blankets on the floor) to the complicated buids (slide-outs, Murphys, etc).  


Regardless of simplicity/complexity there are factors to keep in mind: 

  * physical comfort -- most people like to sleep on some padding
  * insulation -- sleeping on a bare van floor can be very hold
  * storage -- whether or not you want containers, drawers, etc to fit under your bed
  * ventilation -- in order to prevent mold/mildew, bedding either needs to be able to breathe underneath((mattress on slats, or grate)) or be "turned" manually to air out
  * the bed is likely the largest object in the van in terms of square footage, and position can be critical to the layout
  * taller people can get by with shorter beds by sleeping on a diagonal

===== directly on the floor =====

Sleeping directly on the floor on a blanket or pad can be a long-term solution for minimalists, a necessity for people with very little vertical space((cars, minivans)), or a temporary way to get started immediately.  
===== cot =====

[[https://amzn.to/2RHTGhD|{{ https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71WhGMKKTgL._AC_UL320_ML3_.jpg?100}}]]
[[https://amzn.to/2NUaH7g|Camping cots]] are lightweight, highly portable and compact when stored, quick to setup, and more comfortable than many might think.  In cold weather [[https://amzn.to/36mMgpg|a camping pad]] is often added for underinsulation.

[[https://amzn.to/2RHTGhD|Military-style cots]], where the side "stretchers" make a taut sleeping surface, are unusually comfortable.  They are slightly harder to set up and take down, and do require a bit of strength to assemble.  

Depending on strut and leg design, cots may be difficult to store containers underneath.  




===== platform =====

Sleeping platforms are common for vandwellers because:

  * the bed can be at any desired height (low for sitting, medium for underbed storage, high to allow space for bicycles, dog crates, etc)
  * underbed storage [[http://img.mousetrap.net/pm/IMG_20180108_123151.jpg|can be significant]]
  * the bed is always usuable
  * the platform can be slotted or [[http://img.mousetrap.net/pm/IMG_20171206_160630.jpg|otherwise ventilated]] for mold control
  * they can be built simply out of wood.  2x3s are often sufficient. 

===== convertible bed =====

Convertible beds are movable in some way that maximizes usable space:

  * [[https://www.google.com/search?tbm=isch&q=van%20slide%20out%20bed&tbs=imgo:1|collapse/slide]] into a smaller configuration (common)
  * lift-up bed top to access storage below, as one might see in an RV
  * swing up to the wall, murphy style
  * lift up to the ceiling (less common due to complexity) 

====== sleeping bag ======

A sleeping bag is the most important piece of sleeping gear.  Cold-weather sleeping requires mummy bags of the correct temperature rating.  Note:  some bags will be labeled "zero degree" but the details reveal they mean 0 deg celsius (32F).


====== further reading ======

  * Bob Wells yt video [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=StZoCjShgJ8|Best of Beds]]