Can You Fit a Queen Mattress in Your Subaru Outback
Yes, you can fit a queen mattress in a Subaru Outback, but it depends on your model year, whether you fold the rear seats, and how you position the mattress. The Subaru Outback offers generous cargo space, especially with the rear seats folded down, making it one of the more versatile SUVs for hauling large items like a queen mattress.
This is a comprehensive guide about Can You Fit a Queen Mattress in a Subaru Outback?.
Key Takeaways
- A queen mattress can fit in a Subaru Outback with the rear seats folded flat, provided you measure carefully and plan your loading approach.
- The 2024 Subaru Outback cargo area offers up to 75.7 cubic feet of space with seats folded, which is plenty for a queen mattress.
- Folding the rear seats is the most common and effective method for fitting a queen mattress inside the cabin.
- Using a roof rack or cargo carrier is an alternative if the interior space feels tight or if you want to keep the cabin clean.
- Protect your car’s interior with moving blankets or a mattress bag to prevent scratches and dirt during transport.
- Always secure the mattress with straps or bungee cords to prevent shifting while driving.
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Can You Fit a Queen Mattress in a Subaru Outback?
If you have just bought a new queen mattress and you are driving a Subaru Outback, you might be wondering whether it will fit. The good news is that the Subaru Outback is known for its spacious cargo area. It is one of those rare SUVs that can handle big, bulky items without making you feel like you are trying to squeeze a couch into a closet. But does that mean a queen mattress fits easily? Let us break it down.
A queen mattress measures roughly 60 inches wide and 80 inches long. That is a significant size. The Subaru Outback has a cargo area that expands quite a bit when you fold the rear seats down. So yes, you can fit a queen mattress in a Subaru Outback. But how you do it matters a lot. You need to think about the length, the width, and whether the mattress will fit through the hatchback opening. We will walk you through every detail so you feel confident before your move.
The Subaru Outback has been a favorite among families and outdoor enthusiasts for years. Its wagon-style design gives it more cargo room than most traditional SUVs. Whether you are moving to a new apartment, picking up a mattress from a store, or hauling gear for a camping trip, the Outback can handle the job. But fitting a queen mattress is not always as simple as just tossing it in the back. There are a few things you need to know first.
Understanding the Subaru Outback Cargo Dimensions
Before you try to fit a queen mattress inside your Subaru Outback, you need to know the actual cargo dimensions. Different model years and trim levels can vary slightly, but the general measurements remain consistent across recent generations.
2024 Subaru Outback Cargo Space
The latest Subaru Outback models offer up to 75.7 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded down. Behind the third row (if equipped), the space is more limited. But for most Outback models, the rear seats fold flat to create a long, open cargo floor. This is where your queen mattress will go.
The length of the cargo area behind the front seats, with the rear seats folded, is typically around 60 to 65 inches. The width between the wheel wells is roughly 45 to 50 inches. A queen mattress is 60 inches wide, so you will need to position it diagonally or let it rest partially on the seats in front. This is the trickiest part, but it is very doable.
Measuring Your Specific Model
Not every Subaru Outback is exactly the same. The 2015 model might have slightly different dimensions than the 2024 model. Here is what you should do before loading your mattress.
- Measure the cargo floor length from the back of the front seats to the rear hatch.
- Measure the width between the wheel wells at the widest point.
- Measure the hatchback opening height and width to make sure the mattress can slide through.
- Check your owner’s manual for exact cargo dimensions specific to your year and trim.
Taking these few minutes to measure can save you a lot of frustration later. It also helps you decide whether you need a roof rack or if the interior will work just fine.
How to Fit a Queen Mattress in a Subaru Outback
Now that you know the cargo dimensions, let us talk about the actual process of getting that queen mattress inside. There are a few methods, and some work better than others depending on your specific situation.
Method 1: Fold the Rear Seats and Load Inside
This is the most common approach. Fold the rear seats flat using the release levers or buttons located on the seat backs. Once the seats are down, you will have a long, flat cargo floor. Slide the queen mattress in lengthwise if possible. If the mattress is too long, you can angle it diagonally. Some people find that lifting one end of the mattress and sliding it in at an angle works best.
Make sure the mattress does not block your rearview mirror or obstruct your side mirrors. You still need clear visibility while driving. If the mattress sticks up above the seat backs, it can be a safety hazard and may also violate local traffic laws.
Method 2: Use the Roof Rack or Cargo Carrier
If the interior space feels too tight, you can always use the roof. The Subaru Outback comes with roof rails on most trims, and you can add a crossbar system if your model does not have them. A roof-mounted cargo carrier or a mattress strapped to the roof rack can work well.
However, there are some downsides to this method. The mattress will be exposed to the elements, including rain and wind. It can also affect your fuel economy and make the vehicle feel top-heavy, especially at highway speeds. If you go this route, make sure you secure the mattress tightly with ratchet straps and check it before every leg of your trip.
Also, keep in mind that the Subaru Outback has a towing capacity of around 2,700 pounds when properly equipped. While you are not towing a mattress, adding heavy cargo on the roof has its own weight limits. Check your owner’s manual for the maximum roof load rating.
Method 3: Remove the Rear Seats (If Applicable)
Some Subaru Outback models allow you to completely remove the rear seats. This gives you even more cargo room and makes loading a queen mattress much easier. If your Outback has removable rear seats, this is a great option. Just make sure you know how to reinstall them properly afterward.
Tips for Loading and Securing a Queen Mattress
Loading a mattress into your Subaru Outback is not just about getting it in. You also need to make sure it stays secure during your drive. An unsecured mattress can shift, slide, or even fly out of the vehicle, which is extremely dangerous.
Use Moving Blankets or a Mattress Bag
Before loading your queen mattress, wrap it in moving blankets or a plastic mattress bag. This protects your car’s interior from dirt, dust, and any accidental damage. It also prevents the mattress from scratching the cargo floor or the seats. A plastic mattress bag is especially useful if you are picking up the mattress from a store in wet weather.
You can find mattress bags at most moving supply stores or online for a small fee. They are worth every penny to keep your Subaru Outback clean.
Secure the Mattress with Straps
Use ratchet straps, bungee cords, or cargo nets to tie the mattress down. Attach the straps to the cargo tie-down points in the Subaru Outback’s cargo area. Make sure the mattress cannot slide forward or sideways while you are driving.
- Use at least two straps — one near the head of the mattress and one near the foot.
- Tighten the straps snugly but not so tight that they damage the mattress fabric.
- Check the straps every 30 minutes during your first hour of driving.
Drive Carefully
A queen mattress loaded in your Subaru Outback changes the way the vehicle handles. The center of gravity shifts, and the extra weight in the cargo area affects braking and cornering. Drive slower than usual, avoid sharp turns, and leave extra following distance. If you are not used to hauling large items, take it easy on the road until you feel comfortable.
Common Mistakes People Make When Hauling a Mattress
There are several mistakes that people make when trying to fit a queen mattress in their car. Avoiding these can save you time, money, and a lot of headaches.
Not Measuring Before You Go
The biggest mistake is assuming the mattress will fit without measuring. A queen mattress is 80 inches long, and some Subaru Outback models have a cargo floor that is shorter than that. If you do not measure first, you might get to the store only to find out the mattress will not fit. Always measure your cargo area and compare it to the mattress dimensions before you go.
Forgetting to Clear the Cargo Area
Remove any loose items from the cargo area before loading the mattress. Spare tires, grocery bags, gym bags, and pet crates can all get in the way. A clear cargo floor makes loading much easier and helps the mattress sit flat and secure.
Ignoring the Hatchback Opening
The Subaru Outback has a hatchback rear door, which is great for cargo. But the opening is not as tall as a full-size SUV’s rear door. You may need to angle the mattress to get it through the hatch. If you try to push it straight in without tilting, it might not fit. Practice the loading angle a few times before you have the mattress in your hands.
Overloading the Roof Without Proper Equipment
Some people throw a mattress on the roof without using a proper roof rack or crossbars. This is a bad idea. The mattress can fly off at highway speeds, and it can also damage your roof. Always use the factory-installed roof rails or an aftermarket crossbar system. And never exceed the roof weight limit listed in your owner’s manual.
Not Considering Fuel Efficiency
Adding a heavy queen mattress to your Subaru Outback, especially on the roof, can reduce your fuel efficiency. The Outback already gets solid gas mileage, but extra weight and aerodynamic drag from a roof-loaded mattress will lower it. If you are planning a long trip, keep this in mind. You might want to consider having the mattress delivered instead of driving it home.
Subaru Outback vs. Other Vehicles for Hauling a Queen Mattress
Wondering how the Subaru Outback compares to other popular vehicles when it comes to fitting a queen mattress? Here is a quick comparison.
| Vehicle | Cargo Length (Seats Folded) | Queen Mattress Fit? | Ease of Loading |
|---|---|---|---|
| Subaru Outback | ~60-65 inches | Yes (diagonal or partial) | Easy with hatchback |
| Honda CR-V | ~60 inches | Yes (tight fit) | Moderate |
| Toyota RAV4 | ~60 inches | Yes (diagonal) | Moderate |
| Ford Explorer | ~70+ inches | Yes (straight in) | Easy |
| Honda Civic | ~40 inches | No | N/A |
As you can see, the Subaru Outback holds its own against other compact SUVs. It may not be as roomy as a full-size SUV like the Ford Explorer, but it is more than capable of handling a queen mattress with the right approach. The hatchback design makes loading and unloading much easier compared to sedans or smaller crossovers.
Can You Use a Subaru Outback Hybrid for Moving?
The Subaru Outback Hybrid is a great option if you do a lot of moving or hauling. The hybrid system provides extra power, which can be helpful when you are loading heavy items like a mattress. Plus, the Outback Hybrid gets excellent fuel economy, which saves you money if you are making multiple trips.
If you own or are considering a Subaru Outback Hybrid, you might also want to install a hitch carrier for extra cargo capacity. The Outback Hybrid can support a trailer hitch, and you can use it to carry oversized items that won’t fit inside the vehicle. Just make sure your hitch setup does not exceed the towing capacity of your specific model.
One thing to keep in mind is that the hybrid battery is located under the cargo floor, which can reduce the flat cargo space slightly. However, the difference is minimal and should not prevent you from fitting a queen mattress. The hybrid system also adds a bit of weight to the vehicle, so your fuel savings might be slightly offset when you are carrying heavy loads.
Protecting Your Subaru Outback After Moving Day
Once you have successfully moved your queen mattress, you will want to take care of your Subaru Outback. Transporting a mattress can leave dirt, dust, or even small debris inside the cargo area. A quick cleanup after every move goes a long way.
You might also want to check your Subaru Outback’s maintenance schedule after a heavy moving job. Heavy cargo puts extra stress on your brakes, suspension, and tires. Make sure your tire pressure is correct and that your brakes are responding normally. If you notice any unusual sounds or vibrations after hauling a heavy load, have your vehicle inspected by a professional.
Keeping your car clean also helps maintain its resale value. If you used a plastic mattress bag or moving blankets, shake them out and store them properly for next time. A clean, well-maintained Subaru Outback will serve you well for many years and many more moves to come.
Final Thoughts
So, can you fit a queen mattress in a Subaru Outback? Absolutely. The Subaru Outback is one of the most practical SUVs on the road for hauling large items. With its generous cargo space, fold-flat rear seats, and hatchback design, it handles a queen mattress with relative ease. Just remember to measure your cargo area, use the right loading method, secure the mattress properly, and drive safely.
Whether you choose to load the mattress inside the cabin, strap it to the roof rack, or use a combination of both, the Subaru Outback gives you options. Take your time, be careful, and do not rush the process. A little planning goes a long way toward a successful move. And if you ever need to haul something even bigger, the Outback’s cargo capacity and available towing features have you covered.
Now that you know how to fit a queen mattress in your Subaru Outback, you are ready for your next move. Happy hauling, and drive safely!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a queen mattress fit in a Subaru Outback without folding the rear seats?
It will be a very tight fit and likely will not work. The queen mattress is 80 inches long, and the cargo area behind the rear seats is shorter than that. You will need to fold the rear seats down to create enough length for the mattress to fit comfortably.
What size mattress can fit in a Subaru Outback with the rear seats up?
With the rear seats up, you can typically fit a twin or full-size mattress diagonally. A queen mattress will not fit with the rear seats in the upright position. Always measure your specific model year for exact dimensions.
Do I need a roof rack to carry a queen mattress on a Subaru Outback?
You do not need a roof rack if you can fit the mattress inside the cargo area with the rear seats folded. However, a roof rack is helpful if the mattress does not fit inside or if you want to keep the cabin clean. The Subaru Outback comes with roof rails on most trims, making it easy to add a crossbar system.
Can I use a Subaru Outback to pick up a mattress from a furniture store?
Yes, most furniture stores will deliver for free or a small fee, but if you want to pick it up yourself, the Subaru Outback is a great choice. Just bring moving blankets, straps, and a mattress bag. Load the mattress carefully and secure it before driving.
Will a queen mattress fit in a 2015 Subaru Outback?
Yes, a queen mattress can fit in a 2015 Subaru Outback with the rear seats folded down. The cargo dimensions are similar to newer models, though there may be slight variations. Measure your specific vehicle and the mattress before attempting to load it.
Is it safe to drive with a queen mattress on top of a Subaru Outback?
It can be safe if the mattress is properly secured with ratchet straps and does not exceed the roof weight limit. However, a roof-loaded mattress can affect handling and fuel economy. If possible, load the mattress inside the cargo area for a safer and more fuel-efficient drive. Always check local laws regarding over-sized cargo on vehicles.
