Bunk beds are a great way to maximize the limited space available in your RV. To be able to efficiently use a bunk bed, you will need a bunk bed ladder. These ladders are meant to be safe, secure, and comfortable for use.
Feeling like you’re going through an obstacle course when you want to get into your bunk bed is the last thing you want. To avoid this, you need to select the best bunk bed ladder for your RV. Before you can do that, you will need a detailed buying guide to help you make the right choice.
In this article I have reviewed top 5 best rv bunk bed ladders on the market right now with detailed buying guide.
Review of the Top 5 Best Ladders for RV Bunk Beds
YMLSD Bunk Ladder for Rv Bed
Best known for its super lightweight feature
Durability
One very unique advantage of this bunk bed ladder is that it is super durable with a long life expectancy. It also manages to maintain a lightweight nature despite being very durable.
This bunk bed ladder is manufactured from steel to make it super durable and long-lasting. It is super lightweight, so moving it into or around your RV should be a piece of cake. It is capable of supporting a weight load of up to 150kg.
Easy to use
This bunk bed ladder is very easy to use and store. You don’t have to worry about installation either. Its installation process is pretty straightforward and does not require any special skill.
All you need to do is attach the ladder to your bunk bed via a hook. Hook this ladder to your bunks and proceed to secure them in place with some rope or tie wraps and you’re all set.
Safety
These ladder hooks can be used by most RV bunks without being too slack. It is usually secured in place and does not need any external instrument for safety.
Space
If you intend to save even more floor space with this ladder, you can unscrew and unhook the ladder and then proceed to store it when it is not being used. The only downside is you will have to re-install this ladder whenever you want to use it.
Quality
Overall, this ladder is high-quality and does the job of providing you with adequate support while you climb well. It is rust and water-resistant and so you don’t have to worry about the frame corroding over time. It is safe and secure and is meant to be used by adults.
Pros
- Able to support an impressive load capacity
- Easy to use and quick to install
- Hooks can be used for various bunks
- Super lightweight
- Compact
- Durable
- Easy to store
Cons
- The height is fixed and cannot be adjusted
- Climbing may hurt your feet
- Hooks require securing
Soctone Telescoping RV Bunk Bed Ladder
Best Known for its Collapsible ladder length feature
Space
This bunk bed ladder is a telescopic bunk ladder that helps you save space efficiently. Although this ladder saves space, it is noticeably heavy, weighing around 22 lbs and so may be difficult to move around easily. It is capable of extending up to 12.5 feet depending on the required length.
You can adjust it however you like, and even use it for other tasks outside your RV. For storage, you can collapse this ladder to about 32 inches which makes storing this ladder much easier.
Safety
The high-quality manufacturing of this telescoping ladder guarantees that every part of this ladder retracts safely and efficiently. When it is in use, smart locking pins ensure that each part is secured in place and small movements or sliding do not occur. These pins also ensure that the retracting process is done seamlessly.
Durability
You will be getting a tough, reliable, and durable ladder capable of carrying loads up to 330 lbs and is suitable for both children and adults. The rungs are wide and so won’t hurt your feet while you climb with ease.
Quality
The sturdy and stable structure of the telescopic ladder is manufactured using only the best aluminum alloy which makes it resistant to corrosion and rust that would otherwise be deadly to the structure. It can also withstand low and high temperatures while maintaining its stability over the years.
Pros
- Height can be adjusted to suit all bunks
- Variety in use
- Compact and does not use up space
- Anodized material makes for easy cleaning
- Durable
Cons
- Difficult to properly secure the bunk
- Very heavy to move from one spot to another
Stromberg Carlson RV Bunk Ladder
Best Known for its Universal height for RV bunk beds
Durability
This bunk bed ladder is arguably one of the most secure hook-on RV bunk ladders you can find around. It is tough, stable, long-lasting, and great for kids and even heavy adults that weigh up to 250 lbs.
Quality
The ladder is made using high-quality aluminum that not only makes it durable and strong but also makes it lightweight. This RV bunk ladder also comes equipped with rubber treads that guarantee stability, and rubber pads that aid comfort.
Even though some users report that the rungs on this ladder may be too narrow, the general opinion remains that they are comfortable enough.
Space
If you are worried about space, you can store this ladder easily. Its compact dimensions mean you can store it just about anywhere in your RV with a little room.
Safety
This ladder comes with two sets of fastening hooks that will enable you to attach the ladder properly to your bunk. One set is for clipping the ladder to your bunk, while the other is to fasten the included mounts. This gives you the option of including mounts onto your bunk beds if the hooks are not the right fit.
Pros
- Its sturdy frame makes it durable
- Suitable height for most bunk beds
- Capable of supporting heavy loads
- Easily removable
- Rubber steps aid comfort
Cons
- Rungs may be too thin
Augtarlion Aluminum Telescoping Extension Ladder
Best known for its durability and telescopic feature
Durability
This telescopic extension ladder is just what you need if you are in the market for a highly durable and efficient ladder. It is made with premium 6061 thick standard aluminum alloy.
The surface of its aluminum has oxidized to prolong the overall lifespan of this ladder. As for the plastic parts of this ladder, nylon fiber is used to reinforce the material to improve its load-carrying capacity. As a result of this, this ladder can support a load capacity of 330 lbs or 150kg.
Safety
As a result of the upgrading internal structure of these kinds of collapsible ladders, each step is made to fall slowly and seamlessly. When retracting the ladder, you don’t have to worry about your hand being pinched. This ladder is safe to be used by children and adults alike. With children, however, careful supervision is necessary.
Quality design
The design of this telescopic ladder is simply magnificent. While fully extended, this ladder’s height measures about 10.5 feet. However, when it comes to storage it is collapsible to about ¼ of that. You wouldn’t need so much strength to carry this telescopic ladder.
It includes an integrated carrying handle that is equipped with a heavy-duty velcro storage strap that helps in convenient transportation to a storage location.
Space
You can fully fold it and store it under the bunk bed thereby saving space and being very practical.
Multipurpose Use
This adjustable bunk bed ladder is super useful in an RV as multipurpose equipment. It can be used to reach difficult areas while maintaining balance. It can be used for washing windows, painting, interior or exterior decorating, repairing the roof, etc.
Pros
- Multipurpose use
- Standard aluminum alloy for durability and long-lasting effect
- Sturdy and possesses a reliable frame
- Impressive load capacity
- Safe for children
- Can be folded and stored easily
Cons
- Narrow rungs may be uncomfortable for some people
YBK Swing Rope Ladder for Kids
Best known for its suitability for children
Quality material
This RV rope ladder is made of quality polyester climbing rope. The manufacturers of this ladder prioritized quality above all else. From the rope to the solid wood, every part of this ladder is comfortable and durable for your kids to enjoy.
Safe and suitable for kids
This 5 step ladder is great for your kids. It is not only fun to climb, but also helps strengthen the child’s muscles while building stamina and skill. It is much safer for kids to climb than metal ladders that may stub their toes.
Durability
Although rope ladders are not particularly known for their durability, this ladder, however, exceeds expectations. It is capable of supporting loads of up to 330 pounds over a long time. With proper maintenance, this rope ladder should last a long time.
Easy to install
Installing this rope ladder is almost as easy as climbing one. It comes with instructions that will also guide you in case you encounter any challenges.
Pros
- Child-friendly design
- Lightweight and very easy to remove and store
- Easily affordable
- Also suitable for use outside the RV
- A load-carrying capacity of up 330 lbs
Cons
- Will swing when being climbed
- Narrow rungs may be uncomfortable
- It may require extra security
Buying Guide – How to Choose the Best RV Bunk Bed Ladder
Buying the right bunk bed ladder for your RV might seem like a herculean task on the surface, but with the right buying guide, you will get through it with little or no hassle. We have compiled a list of important features to look out for when you’re in the market for an RV bunk bed ladder.
Seeing as the majority of bunk bed ladders bought are for children, it is important to prioritize safety and security.
Safety
Safety is an important aspect to consider when buying any piece of equipment. When it is going to be used by everyone, including kids, then safety is an absolute necessity. To guarantee the safety of everyone using it, bunk bed ladders must be stable and able to support heavy weights to guarantee the user’s safety. A safe bunk bed ladder must be able to support the weight of two users.
They often vary in the weight capacity they can support. On average, they can support weights ranging from 200 to 600lbs. The idea is for the ladder to be able to support the weight of the heaviest person that might use it.
Other safety considerations to look for include; hooks, fastenings, rubber feet, and non-slip steps. These features will ensure both the user and the ladder are properly secured in place during use.
Another useful tip that improves safety while using the ladder at night is the addition of several strips of tape that glow in the dark. Apart from its added aesthetic, these tapes aid visibility and prevent trip or fall accidents.
Proper installation is another aspect of bunk bed ladder safety that is often neglected. It is always a great idea to buy bunk ladders that are super easy to install and do not require any previous skill or knowledge other than the one obtained from the instructions. You must also ensure that the ladder is fitted firmly in place before you begin climbing.
If kids are going to have access to the bunk ladder, inform them of the best way to use the ladder safely, and avoid any accidents. For instance, you can instruct your kids to:
- Avoid climbing the ladder when visibility is low and they can’t see
- Ensure they face the ladder directly while they climb up or down
- Keep 3 or 4 points of contact at all times. (Both hands and feet)
- Avoid using the ladder for anything other than climbing up or down. That means no games or dangerous activities involving the ladders
- Climb the ladder one at a time
- Avoid pushing or pulling at anyone using the ladder
To guarantee added safety with the ladder, you can install handrails.
Budget
RV bunk ladders have a wide spectrum when it comes to pricing. It could be anywhere from very cheap to ridiculously expensive. This is why it is important to have a budget in mind for the kind of ladder you want, and the features you prioritize.
A great way to save money while buying equipment on a budget is by buying multipurpose equipment. The same goes for bunk ladders. You can buy bunk ladders that can also be used as exterior ladders to space cost. A great example of this multipurpose ladder is the Augtarlion Aluminum Telescoping Extension Ladders.
Space
Space is another important factor to consider before purchasing any bunk bed ladder for your RV. As you may very well know, RVs have limited space. Every piece of equipment or furniture must be perfectly thought out to avoid cramping.
The last thing you want is to buy a ladder that will take up what little space you have left. There are several ways to solve the limited space conundrum. One of which is the use of movable ladders that can be stored somewhere else after usage. Ladders like the Soctone Telescoping Bunk Bed Ladder and the Augtarlion Telescoping Bunk Bed Extension Ladders fit that description.
You must also measure the height of both the bunk and the ladder you intend to buy to ensure it’s a perfect fit. Getting a ladder that turns out to be too tall will lead to extra costs in modification.
Also, it will be useless if the ladder turns out to be too short. You can also maximize your space by purchasing adjustable bunk bed ladders. You can collapse down to a single rung when it is not in use.
Steps
More often than not, step rungs are gravely overlooked when selecting a bunk bed ladder for purchase. If the rungs of the ladder are too narrow, they could hurt your feet or be missed while climbing. Seeing as you would most likely be without shoes while climbing, you must select one with enough space to balance your feet.
Apart from getting a ladder with a wider step, you may also want to get one with sufficient padding to cushion the effect on your feet. The distance between each rung will also determine how easy and comfortable they will be to use. A shorter distance between each rung will be best for children while a rung with a larger distance will be better for adults.
Conclusion
Most bunk bed ladders are very easy to install and do not constitute too much of a hassle. Every brand of bunk bed ladder is different in its own way. So ensure you familiarize yourself with all the specifications and details of the ladder before you begin to install.
However, if you are not particularly handy with these things, it is better to call on a professional to help with the installation of your bunk bed ladder.
Ensure the ladder is properly fastened to the bed to prevent any fall accidents from occurring. You may need to include mounts or rails to make climbing that much easier. For the rope RV ladder, you may need to supervise your child while they climb to ensure the swinging does not result in an accident.
Joseph is the owner of LadderGeek. He is a home remodeling enthusiast. He has created this blog to share some of his knowledge on Ladder and accessories.
