The Mercedes-Benz Airstream Interstate offers a blend of luxury and adventure, making it a popular choice for discerning travelers. A key feature for any road tripper is a comfortable night’s rest, and the Interstate’s convertible bed system plays a central role in this. While ingeniously designed to maximize daytime living space, the nightly transformation into a sleeping area presents both advantages and considerations for owners.
The rear of the Airstream Interstate is cleverly designed with a power-folding bench seat. At the touch of a button, this bench smoothly transitions into a flat base. Complementing this, two side seats also fold down, expanding the sleeping surface to create a surprisingly generous space. Many owners find the dimensions comparable to, or even exceeding, a queen-size bed, approaching king-size territory. The beauty of this convertible sofa-bed is its dual functionality. During the day, this area becomes a versatile living space perfect for lounging, dining, and relaxing.
However, the convenience of a convertible system comes with certain trade-offs when it’s time to sleep. The primary aspect is the necessary nightly conversion. Unlike a dedicated bed, the transformation from living space to bedroom requires a setup process each evening. While not overly complex, this conversion does take time.
Once converted, the sleeping surface is mostly flat, but it’s important to acknowledge that it doesn’t replicate the uniform flatness of a traditional mattress. A notable design element is a vertical board that becomes surface level once the seats are folded down. This board, originating from the side of the seats, appears to be a structural necessity for the seat mechanisms. Unfortunately, its positioning can result in a firm protrusion that some users may find presses against their legs while lying down.
To mitigate the firmness and unevenness, a common solution, recommended by experienced Airstream Interstate owners, involves using additional mattress toppers. These toppers, typically rolled foam or similar materials, add a layer of cushioning and comfort. However, deploying these toppers adds to the setup time. Retrieving the rolls and sheets from overhead storage and arranging them properly can add 8-10 minutes to the bedtime routine, especially initially. With practice, this time can likely be reduced, but it remains a daily task. Conversely, the morning routine involves rolling up the toppers and storing them, which also takes time and effort. The added bulk of these toppers also consumes valuable storage space within the Airstream Interstate, a factor to consider for extended trips where storage optimization is key.
It’s worth noting that for individuals under 5’6″, an alternative sleeping configuration exists. Sleeping across the width of the rear bench seat, either with it folded or upright, becomes feasible. This orientation can minimize the impact of any uneven surfaces and the aforementioned board, potentially eliminating the need for extensive toppers.
Ultimately, the convertible bed in the Benz Airstream Interstate presents a balance of versatility and comfort. While the daily setup and potential for unevenness are factors to consider, the spacious sleeping area and daytime usability are significant advantages. Prospective owners should weigh these aspects to determine if this convertible system aligns with their travel style and comfort preferences.
