Layout types for a low-profile motorhome: which one to choose?

Choosing a low-profile motorhome doesn't depend only on size, price or the number of seats. One of the most important aspects is its interior layout, since this determines how well the space is used, how you sleep, how much storage you have, and how comfortable the motorhome will be on your trips.

Low-profile motorhomes can feature different types of beds and interior layouts: island bed, twin beds, transverse bed, French bed or drop-down bed. Each layout has its own advantages and is designed for a particular type of traveller.

In this guide, we explain the main layouts of a low-profile motorhome to help you choose the one that best suits your needs.What is a motorhome's layout?

The layout refers to how the different zones of the interior are arranged: the bedroom, kitchen, bathroom, lounge and storage spaces.

Even if two motorhomes look similar on the outside, their interiors can be completely different depending on the layout chosen.

That's why, before buying a low-profile motorhome, it's worth considering how many people will usually be travelling, how much sleeping space you need, what kind of equipment you'll be carrying, and how much storage you'll need.

Low-profile motorhome with an island bed

The island bed, also known as a central bed, is usually located at the rear of the motorhome and can be accessed from both sides.

It's one of the most comfortable layouts for couples, since it lets each person get in and out of bed without disturbing the other.

Advantages of the island bed

• Access from both sides.

• Greater comfort for two people.

• Feels like a separate bedroom.

• Wardrobes and storage space around the bed.

• A good option for long trips.

Who is it recommended for?

Especially for couples who prioritise comfort and want the sleeping area to feel as close as possible to a conventional bed.

Low-profile motorhome with a transverse bed

The transverse bed is located at the rear of the motorhome, spanning the full width of the vehicle.

One of its main benefits is that it makes use of the space underneath to create a large garage.

Advantages of the transverse bed

• Makes excellent use of space.

• Spacious rear garage.

• Ideal for carrying bikes, tables, chairs or other equipment.

• Allows for relatively compact exterior dimensions.

Things to bear in mind

The person sleeping on the inside usually has to climb over the other person to get out of bed.

Who is it recommended for?

For travellers who particularly value storage capacity and need to carry bikes or other bulky gear.

Low-profile motorhome with a French bed

The French bed usually runs lengthwise along one side at the rear of the motorhome.

This frees up the other side for the bathroom or various storage spaces.

Advantages of the French bed

• Good use of interior space.

• Compact layout.

• Can allow for a spacious bathroom even in shorter vehicles.

• Suitable for couples.

Things to bear in mind

Being set against one side, access can be less convenient than with an island bed.

Low-profile motorhome with a drop-down bed

The drop-down bed is usually located above the lounge and stays raised during the day.

At night it can be lowered manually or electrically, depending on the model.

This layout increases the number of sleeping places without having to significantly increase the length of the motorhome.

Advantages of the drop-down bed

• Makes the most of the lounge during the day.

• Adds extra sleeping places.

• No need to convert the dining area into a bed every night.

• A good solution for families.

Who is it recommended for?

For families or groups who need more sleeping places but want to keep a compact layout.

Which low-profile motorhome layout should you choose?

There's no single layout that's best for everyone. The choice mainly depends on how you plan to use the motorhome.

If you mainly travel as a couple and want comfort, an island bed can be one of the most appealing options.

If you want independent sleeping and plenty of storage, twin beds offer great versatility.

If you need to carry bikes, sports gear or lots of luggage, a transverse bed with a large garage can be especially practical.

If you're after a compact motorhome for two, a French bed can make very good use of the space.

And if you travel as a family or need extra sleeping places, a drop-down bed makes better use of the lounge area.

What to consider besides the bed

A motorhome's layout shouldn't be chosen on the bedroom alone.

Before deciding, it's also worth considering:

• Number of approved seats for travel.

• Number of sleeping places.

• Garage capacity.

• Size of the bathroom and shower.

• Available kitchen space.

• Storage capacity.

• Overall length of the vehicle.

• Available payload.

The best layout is the one that strikes the right balance between comfort, storage and ease of use for the type of trips you take.

Find the low-profile motorhome that best suits you

At TTCamper you'll find a range of low-profile motorhomes with layouts including island bed, twin beds, transverse bed or drop-down bed.

Before choosing a model, it's best to compare several layouts in person to see which one is most comfortable for your needs and the way you travel.

Check out our motorhome catalogue of available low-profile models and find the layout that best suits your next trips.