Troopy Bed Setup: How to Build a Sleeping Platform
The Troopy bed platform is the difference between a Troopy that camps in a swag and a Troopy that sleeps two adults inside. This guide covers DIY plans, dimensions and the practical considerations that make a platform work.
1. Platform Dimensions
Basic platform sits on top of the rear drawer system. Length approximately 1,750 mm (factory cargo floor length, headboard to rear barn doors). Width approximately 1,400 mm at the widest point. Most adults need 1,900 to 2,000+ mm sleeping length, hence the slide-out extension.
2. Slide-Out Extension
A 250-300 mm forward extension that pulls out over the front seats when the front seats are pushed forward and reclined. Total usable bed length becomes 2,000 to 2,050 mm. Built from 18 mm ply with metal slide rails (drawer slides up to 36-inch length, rated 100-150 kg each pair). Materials $150 to $300.
3. Construction Materials
18 mm marine ply is the standard - strong enough to span the drawer system without sag, light enough to handle. Edge banding or hardwood trim protects the cut edges. Stainless screws and corner brackets for fasteners. Total ply cost $200 to $400 for the basic platform.
4. Mattress Options
Memory foam mattresses cut to platform size ($300 to $600), tri-fold camping mattresses ($150 to $400), or custom-cut Dunlop/Sleepmaker pieces ($400 to $800). 100 mm thickness is standard. Less than 80 mm and the platform pressure points become uncomfortable; more than 130 mm and headroom under the roof becomes tight.
5. Pop-Top Considerations
If a pop-top conversion is planned, the platform should be designed to work with the pop-top's bed configuration. Most pop-tops include their own upper sleeping platform - the cargo-area platform becomes the second bed. Some pop-tops integrate cargo-area bedding into the design from the start.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size is a Troopy sleeping platform?
Approximately 1,750 mm long x 1,400 mm wide basic platform, extending to 2,000+ mm with a slide-out forward extension over the front seats.
How much does a Troopy bed platform cost?
DIY materials $400 to $1,000. Pre-built from drawer suppliers $800 to $2,000.
What mattress fits a Troopy bed?
Custom-cut memory foam ($300-$600), tri-fold camping ($150-$400), or custom Dunlop pieces ($400-$800). 100 mm thickness is standard.
