ARTICLE: East West Sleeping in a Van: What to Know Before You Build

Last updated: November 3, 2026

East west sleeping puts the bed across the width of the van instead of front to back. Most vans are too narrow for it without changes. In a Sprinter, flares or capsules add width. In a Transit, inset window sleepers like the Innie Sleeper Pair support an east west bed up to 76" with no external flares.

Why Sleep East West?

A front to back bed typically takes 72" to 75" of van length. East west sleeping can return that length to the kitchen, garage, or living space.

Option 1: Flares or Capsules

Flares and capsules are exterior bump-outs that add width at bed height. They need interior trim to look finished. The GoCode Sprinter Flare Trim Ring Pair finishes the opening where a flare, pod, or capsule meets the interior wall. It works with flares and capsules from FlareSpace, Vanspeed, and similar, and fits 2014+ Cargo and Crew Sprinter High Roof. Install before wall and ceiling paneling.

Option 2: Inset Window Sleepers

The Transit Innie Sleeper Pair, developed with AVC Rig, adds a molded insert into the factory window cavities. It supports a true east west bed up to 76" with no external capsules or flares, and fits Transit 148 and 148 EXT in Mid Roof and High Roof. Innies are for sleepers 6'2" or shorter. If you're taller, add one or two flares for extra east west sleeping space. There's about 1" between the sleeper and exterior sheet metal. For cold weather, the product page suggests one layer of Thinsulate SM600.

Key Takeaways

  • East west sleeping can free floor length for other uses.

  • Sprinter: flares plus trim rings.

  • Transit: inset sleepers.

  • Innies are for sleepers 6'2" or shorter. Taller sleepers can add one or two flares.

  • ProMaster: may work stock. [TK]

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