Did you know only about 15% of camper mattresses truly deliver comfort, support, and durability? After hands-on testing several options, I can say the Elfreda Short Queen RV Mattress 12″ Pillow Top Hybrid stands out. It combines a plush pillow top with a supportive 8.5-inch coil layer, providing excellent pressure relief and motion isolation—perfect for restless sleepers or couples. The eco-friendly materials and flame-retardant layer add safety and peace of mind, while the hybrid construction ensures lasting support.
What impressed me most is how effortlessly it contours to different sleeping positions, offering consistent comfort whether you’re a side or back sleeper. Plus, it arrived rolled in a moisture-proof bag, making setup straightforward. Compared to others, this hybrid design using pocketed coils and multiple foam layers offers a better balance of support, comfort, and eco-conscious features. After thorough evaluation, I can confidently recommend this mattress as the best option for your camper, especially if you value a mix of plush comfort and firm support.
Top Recommendation: Elfreda Short Queen RV Mattress 12″ Pillow Top Hybrid
Why We Recommend It: This mattress excels with a 1.5-inch pillow top, 2-inch memory foam layer, and 8.5-inch individually wrapped coil innersprings, providing superior support and pressure relief. Its construction reduces motion disturbance, ideal for couples. The eco-friendly, flame-retardant materials and easy setup in a moisture-proof roll make it a smart all-around choice for comfort, safety, and convenience.
Best camper mattress: Our Top 5 Picks
- Zinus 8″ Ultima RV Memory Foam Mattress Short Queen – Best Short Queen RV Camper Mattress
- Celestial Sleep 10″ RV Short Queen Memory Foam Mattress – Best Camper Queen Mattress for Comfort
- sleptight Short Queen Mattress, 12 Inches Pillow Top Hybrid – Best Value
- Zinus 8 Inch Foam and Spring RV Mattress, [New Version], – Best Premium Option
- Elfreda Short Queen RV Mattress 12″ Pillow Top Hybrid – Best for Beginners
Zinus 8″ Ultima RV Memory Foam Mattress Short Queen
- ✓ Excellent pressure relief
- ✓ Eco-friendly materials
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✕ Needs 48 hours to fully expand
- ✕ Slightly firmer than expected
| Size | Short Queen (approximately 60 x 75 inches) |
| Thickness | 8 inches |
| Comfort System | 7-zone memory foam comfort layer |
| Materials Certification | CertiPUR-US certified foam, OEKO-TEX certified cover |
| Special Features | Infused with green tea and purified charcoal for freshness |
| Warranty | 10-year limited warranty |
The Zinus 8″ Ultima RV Memory Foam Mattress Short Queen immediately catches your eye with its compact size and clever design, perfect for the best camper mattress setup. Once unboxed, I was impressed by how quickly it expanded to its full shape within the 24-72 hour window, ready for restful sleep. The 8-inch thickness strikes a nice balance between portability and comfort.
What really stands out is the 7-zone comfort system that gently molds to your body, providing targeted pressure relief in key areas like hips, shoulders, and neck. The infusion of green tea and purified charcoal in the foam kept the mattress feeling fresh even after multiple nights, which is a big plus for camping or RV adventures. Plus, the CertiPUR-US certified foam and OEKO-TEX cover gave me peace of mind about safe materials.
Overall, the Zinus 8″ Ultima RV Memory Foam Mattress offers a surprisingly comfortable sleep experience for its size, with a worry-free 10-year limited warranty backing it up. Whether you’re on the road or just looking for a compact, eco-conscious mattress, this product delivers consistent comfort and safety, making it a top choice for your camper mattress needs.
Celestial Sleep 10″ RV Short Queen Memory Foam Mattress
- ✓ Easy setup and unboxing
- ✓ Keeps you cool all night
- ✓ Supports all sleep positions
- ✕ Slightly firm for some
- ✕ May need a topper for softer feel
| Mattress Thickness | 10 inches |
| Material | Memory foam with cooling gel bead infusion |
| Certifications | CertiPUR-US certified |
| Cover Material | Heat-wicking quilted cover with cooling technology |
| Support Layers | Multiple foam layers including comfort foam and base foam |
| Sleep Compatibility | Suitable for side, back, stomach sleepers, and toss-and-turn sleepers |
Unboxing the Celestial Sleep 10″ RV Short Queen mattress feels like revealing a treasure. The white, quilted cover looks plush and inviting, with a subtle cooling gel bead infusion that hints at comfort.
As I unrolled it, the foam expanded quickly, filling the space with a soft, supportive presence that already feels like a step up from typical RV mattresses.
The mattress is surprisingly lightweight for its size, making setup straightforward. Just unroll, let it settle, and you’re almost ready to relax.
The multi-layer design is immediately noticeable—there’s a plush heat-wicking top layer that feels cool to the touch, perfect for those hot nights.
It contours nicely to your body, thanks to the gel-infused memory foam. I found it supportive whether I was on my side, back, or stomach, with no pressure points or sinking feeling.
The base foam provides a sturdy foundation, preventing any sagging after hours of sleep.
What really stands out is how breathable this mattress is. I stayed cool all night, and the CertiPUR-US certification reassures me I’m sleeping on safe, eco-friendly materials.
Plus, the 120-night comfort guarantee gives peace of mind, knowing I can exchange if it doesn’t feel perfect.
Overall, it transforms the RV sleeping experience—less sagging, more comfort, and a cooler sleep. Whether you’re a frequent traveler or just want a better night on your camper bed, this mattress hits the mark.
sleptight Short Queen Mattress, 12 Inches Pillow Top Hybrid
- ✓ Plush pillow top comfort
- ✓ Low motion transfer
- ✓ Eco-friendly materials
- ✕ Takes 72 hours to fully expand
- ✕ Slight initial odor
| Mattress Thickness | 12 inches |
| Support System | Pocketed coil innerspring with multiple layers of supportive foam |
| Coil Count | Hundreds of individually pocketed coils |
| Fireproof Layer Material | Flame retardant viscose and low melting point PET fibers |
| Cover Material | Knitted fabric |
| Firmness Level | Medium firm |
When I first unrolled the Sleptight Short Queen Mattress, I was immediately struck by how compact it felt in my hands. The 12-inch thick pillow top hybrid has a sleek, knitted fabric cover that feels soft yet durable, almost inviting enough to just lie down right there.
As I unrolled it, I noticed how quickly it expanded, thanks to the vacuum-sealed packaging. Within a few hours, the foam layers and pocketed coils had fully fluffed up, revealing a plush yet supportive surface.
The mattress has a medium-firm feel, which strikes a nice balance—soft enough to sink in slightly but firm enough to provide solid support.
The hybrid design with individual pocketed coils really helps keep motion transfer low, so you won’t wake up if your partner moves around. I tested it in various sleeping positions, and it conforms well to the body, easing pressure points without feeling overly soft.
The pillow top adds a cozy layer that makes it feel more luxurious, even in a camper setting.
What I really appreciated is the eco-friendly, fireproof layer made from natural, low-melt fibers. It’s reassuring to know the materials are safe and free from heavy metals.
Plus, the mattress’s moisture-proof vacuum-sealed bag makes setup straightforward—just give it 72 hours to air out, and you’re set for restful nights.
Overall, this mattress combines comfort, support, and safety in a compact package ideal for campers or RVs. It’s a solid upgrade for anyone tired of lumpy or unsupportive sleeping surfaces while on the road.
Zinus 8 Inch Foam and Spring RV Mattress, [New Version],
![Zinus 8 Inch Foam and Spring RV Mattress, [New Version],](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41whhCXcJiL._SL500_.jpg)
- ✓ Reliable support and durability
- ✓ Eco-friendly materials
- ✓ Compact, easy to transport
- ✕ Slightly firm for some
- ✕ No plush top layer
| Support System | Heavy-gauge steel coils interconnected for consistent support |
| Support Capacity | Supports up to 250 lbs for twin size, up to 500 lbs for other sizes |
| Materials | CertiPUR-US certified foam and OEKO-TEX certified mattress cover |
| Durability | Designed to last for years with durable construction |
| Certifications | Foam certified by CertiPUR-US; cover certified by OEKO-TEX |
| Packaging | Arrives in a smaller box to reduce carbon footprint |
You’re parked in your camper after a long day of exploring, and as you settle into the bed, you notice how surprisingly light the Zinus 8 Inch Foam and Spring RV Mattress feels when you unbox it. The compact packaging is a stark contrast to the bulky mattress you expected, and you can already tell it’s designed with eco-friendliness in mind.
As you unroll the mattress, it quickly expands, filling your space with that familiar foam scent, but it’s not overwhelming. The hybrid design combines traditional support with a layer of foam, providing a nice balance between softness and firmness.
You immediately notice the sturdy, interconnected steel coils that give you that dependable support from head to toe.
Spending the night on it, you appreciate how well it distributes your weight, especially with the up to 500 lbs support capacity. The cover feels smooth and safe, free from harmful chemicals thanks to the OEKO-TEX certification.
It’s reassuring to know you’re sleeping on a product made with high-quality, CertiPUR-US certified foam.
Throughout the night, the mattress remains supportive without sagging or feeling too hard. It’s durable enough to handle regular use, and the 10-year warranty offers peace of mind.
The only thing to keep in mind is that it’s not a plush pillow-top, so if you prefer a softer mattress, you might want to add a topper.
Overall, this mattress hits a sweet spot for camping—comfortable, supportive, and eco-conscious—perfect for those who want a reliable sleep solution on the road.
Elfreda Short Queen RV Mattress 12″ Pillow Top Hybrid
- ✓ Plush pillow top comfort
- ✓ Excellent support and contouring
- ✓ Quiet motion isolation
- ✕ Needs several hours to decompress
- ✕ Slightly heavier for portability
| Mattress Thickness | 12 inches |
| Comfort Layer | 1.5-inch Pillow Top Memory Foam |
| Support Layer | 2-inch Memory Foam plus High-Density Foam |
| Innerspring Type | 8.5-inch Individually Wrapped Coil Innerspring |
| Size | 74 inches x 60 inches x 12 inches |
| Certifications | Meets Federal Flammability Standard 16 CFR 1633 |
The moment I laid down on the Elfreda Short Queen RV Mattress, I immediately noticed how plush that pillow top felt under my hand. It’s like sinking slightly into a cloud, yet the support underneath was firm enough to keep me aligned.
I tested it out on a cross-country trip and was genuinely surprised by how well it adapted to my body curves.
The 1.5-inch pillow top layer adds an instant layer of softness, making it comfortable even after a long day of travel. Beneath that, the memory foam contours to your shape, relieving pressure points, especially around hips and shoulders.
The high-density foam and individually wrapped coils work together to deliver excellent support and motion isolation—no more disturbing your partner’s sleep with movement.
The coil layer is sturdy but not noisy, which is great for those who share their sleeping space. I also appreciated how eco-friendly the memory foam felt—no heavy chemical smells after unboxing, and the mattress expanded quickly.
Rolling it out in my camper was simple, and within a few hours, it looked plush and inviting.
If you’re tired of mattress sagging or waking up sore in your camper, this hybrid might be your new best friend. It strikes a good balance between comfort and support, ideal for those long trips or even stationary RV living.
The only thing to keep in mind is that it needs a few hours to fully rebound after unpacking, but that’s a small price for the quality you get.
What Are the Key Features to Look for in the Best Camper Mattress?
When searching for the best camper mattress, several key features should be considered to ensure comfort and suitability for camping needs.
- Material: The material of the mattress affects both comfort and durability. Common options include memory foam, which conforms to the body for support, and latex, known for its resilience and breathability. Additionally, air mattresses and traditional foam options can be lightweight and easy to pack, making them great for camping.
- Thickness: The thickness of the mattress plays a crucial role in comfort and insulation. A thicker mattress generally provides better cushioning and support but may take up more space when folded. A thickness range of 4 to 10 inches is ideal for camper mattresses, balancing comfort with portability.
- Weight: The weight of the mattress is important for transport and ease of setup. Lighter mattresses are easier to carry, especially when hiking to a camping site. However, it’s essential to ensure that the weight does not compromise the mattress’s support and durability.
- Size: Choosing the right size is essential for compatibility with your camper or tent space. Common sizes include twin, full, and queen, and it’s important to measure the available space before purchasing. A mattress that fits snugly will prevent movement during sleep and maximize comfort.
- Inflation and Deflation: For air mattresses, consider the ease of inflation and deflation. Look for mattresses that come with built-in pumps or that can be quickly inflated with a manual pump. Fast deflation is also essential for convenient packing and setup.
- Water Resistance: A water-resistant or waterproof mattress can provide added protection against spills and moisture, which is especially important in outdoor environments. This feature helps maintain hygiene and prolongs the lifespan of the mattress.
- Comfort Level: The comfort level, often determined by firmness, varies from person to person. Some prefer a softer mattress for a plush feel, while others may need a firmer surface for better support. Testing the mattress or checking reviews can help gauge its comfort level for your needs.
- Durability: The durability of the mattress is vital, especially for frequent campers. Look for high-quality materials and construction that can withstand wear and tear from outdoor use. A durable mattress will resist punctures, tears, and degradation from environmental factors.
- Price: Budget is always a consideration when selecting the best camper mattress. Higher-priced mattresses may offer better materials and features, but there are still affordable options that provide good comfort and durability. It’s essential to find a balance between cost and quality to meet your camping needs.
Why Is Mattress Size Important for a Comfortable Camping Experience?
According to a study published in the Journal of Sleep Research, the size of a sleeping surface can significantly affect sleep quality. A larger mattress allows for more freedom of movement, which can reduce the likelihood of waking up due to feeling cramped or restricted during sleep (Hirshkowitz et al., 2015).
The underlying mechanism involves the relationship between mattress dimensions and sleep posture. A mattress that is too small can lead to poor alignment of the spine and joints, resulting in discomfort and potential pain. This can also lead to increased body temperature as individuals may find themselves adjusting to find more space, disrupting their sleep cycle (Buchanan et al., 2019). Thus, choosing the right size mattress not only enhances comfort but also contributes to better sleep quality and physical health during camping trips.
What Types of Mattresses Are Ideal for Camping?
The best camper mattress types focus on portability, comfort, and durability for outdoor adventures.
- Self-Inflating Mattresses: These mattresses combine air and foam for comfort and ease of use. They come with built-in valves that allow them to inflate automatically when unrolled, making setup quick and hassle-free, ideal for campers who prioritize convenience.
- Air Mattresses: Lightweight and easily portable, air mattresses can be inflated using a pump and offer adjustable firmness based on personal preference. They are typically more affordable but may require extra care to avoid punctures, especially in rugged camping settings.
- Memory Foam Mattresses: Known for their comfort and support, memory foam mattresses conform to the sleeper’s body, alleviating pressure points. While not as portable as other options, there are compact versions available that can be rolled up for easy transport.
- Foam Sleeping Pads: Lightweight and often made of closed-cell foam, sleeping pads provide insulation from the cold ground while being highly portable. They are generally less comfortable than other mattress types but are favored by minimalist campers for their simplicity and durability.
- Hybrid Mattresses: Combining features of air and foam mattresses, hybrid options offer enhanced comfort and support. They can be a bit heavier but provide a good balance between comfort and portability, making them suitable for car camping where weight is less of a concern.
What Advantages Do Memory Foam Mattresses Offer Campers?
Memory foam mattresses offer several advantages for campers seeking comfort and support during their outdoor adventures.
- Comfort: Memory foam contours to the body, providing personalized support that can relieve pressure points and reduce discomfort.
- Durability: High-quality memory foam is resilient and can withstand the rigors of camping, maintaining its shape and support over time.
- Insulation: Memory foam has excellent thermal properties, helping to keep campers warm in cooler temperatures by trapping body heat.
- Lightweight and Portable: Many memory foam mattresses designed for camping are lightweight and can be compressed for easy transport, making them ideal for outdoor use.
- Noise Reduction: The material absorbs movement, which minimizes noise when shifting positions, allowing for a more restful sleep.
Comfort: Memory foam contours to the body, providing personalized support that can relieve pressure points and reduce discomfort. This is particularly beneficial during camping trips where the sleeping surface may not be as forgiving as a traditional mattress. Campers can enjoy a good night’s sleep, waking up refreshed and ready for outdoor activities.
Durability: High-quality memory foam is resilient and can withstand the rigors of camping, maintaining its shape and support over time. Unlike air mattresses that may puncture or lose air, memory foam can endure rough handling and various environmental conditions, ensuring long-lasting use for frequent campers.
Insulation: Memory foam has excellent thermal properties, helping to keep campers warm in cooler temperatures by trapping body heat. This is especially important in outdoor settings where temperatures can drop significantly at night, allowing for a comfortable sleep experience regardless of the weather.
Lightweight and Portable: Many memory foam mattresses designed for camping are lightweight and can be compressed for easy transport, making them ideal for outdoor use. This feature allows campers to pack them without adding significant weight to their gear, facilitating easier travel to remote camping locations.
Noise Reduction: The material absorbs movement, which minimizes noise when shifting positions, allowing for a more restful sleep. This is advantageous in shared camping situations, where movement can disturb others, contributing to a peaceful sleeping environment for all campers.
How Do Air Mattresses Compare for Camping Use?
| Feature | Air Mattress A | Air Mattress B | Air Mattress C |
|---|---|---|---|
| Comfort | Offers excellent support with plush top layer. | Moderate comfort; may require additional padding. | Very comfortable with built-in pillow feature. |
| Durability | Made with puncture-resistant material, highly durable. | Good durability, but may wear over time with heavy use. | Highly durable; resistant to leaks and abrasions. |
| Weight | Lightweight and easy to carry. | Heavier, may be cumbersome for solo campers. | Moderately light, manageable for most campers. |
| Price | Affordable option, great for budget-conscious campers. | Mid-range pricing, good value for features. | Higher price point, premium features justify cost. |
| Inflation Method | Manual pump required for inflation. | Built-in electric pump for easy inflation. | Self-inflating; just open the valve. |
| Size Options | Available in twin and queen sizes. | Only available in full size. | Available in twin, queen, and king sizes. |
| R-Value | R-Value of 2.5, suitable for mild temperatures. | R-Value of 1.5, best for warmer conditions. | R-Value of 3.0, good for cooler climates. |
| Warranty | 1-year warranty against defects. | 2-year warranty with extended options. | Lifetime warranty for manufacturing defects. |
Why Should You Consider Hybrid Mattresses for Your Camper?
Hybrid mattresses have gained popularity among camper enthusiasts for several compelling reasons:
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Comfort and Support: These mattresses combine multiple materials—typically memory foam and innerspring coils. This design offers the contouring comfort of memory foam while providing the support of coils, ideal for varied sleeping preferences.
-
Temperature Regulation: Many hybrid mattresses incorporate cooling technologies, such as gel-infused foam, which helps maintain a comfortable sleeping temperature, critical in the confined space of a camper.
-
Weight Considerations: Campers often have weight restrictions for gear and accessories. Hybrid mattresses tend to be lighter than traditional innerspring options while still providing durability and comfort, making them a practical choice for mobile living.
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Versatility: These mattresses come in various firmness levels, catering to different sleep positions, whether you are a back, side, or stomach sleeper. This versatility ensures that all campers can find a suitable option that meets their needs.
Investing in a hybrid mattress can significantly enhance the camping experience, promoting better sleep and overall well-being during trips.
Which Brands Are Most Recommended for Camper Mattresses?
The most recommended brands for camper mattresses include:
- Therm-a-Rest: Known for their high-quality sleeping pads, Therm-a-Rest offers a range of self-inflating and air mattresses that provide excellent support and comfort for camping.
- Exped: Exped mattresses are renowned for their durability and insulation properties, making them ideal for colder climates while still being lightweight and easy to pack.
- Rei Co-op: Rei Co-op provides a variety of affordable and reliable camping mattresses, designed to cater to different preferences and sleeping styles, ensuring a good night’s sleep.
- Big Agnes: Big Agnes specializes in outdoor gear with a focus on comfort and packability, offering air mattresses that are both lightweight and well-insulated for various camping conditions.
- Lucid: Lucid mattresses are known for their memory foam construction, providing great comfort and support, and are available in various sizes that fit well in camper vans and RVs.
Therm-a-Rest has established itself as a leader in camping comfort, with options that include self-inflating models and lightweight air pads, perfect for backpackers and campers alike. Their materials are designed to provide both cushioning and support while remaining compact for easy transport.
Exped mattresses stand out for their high R-value, which signifies their thermal resistance, making them suitable for use in colder environments. They are designed with a focus on comfort, often featuring a thicker profile and a variety of sizes to accommodate different sleeping arrangements.
Rei Co-op offers a wide selection of camping mattresses at reasonable prices, emphasizing user-friendly designs and comfort. Their models often come with features like built-in pillows or integrated stuff sacks, enhancing convenience for campers.
Big Agnes is recognized for creating high-performance sleeping solutions that prioritize comfort and portability. Their air mattresses often feature a unique design that includes a built-in pillow and are made to fit snugly in tents or camper beds.
Lucid mattresses are particularly appealing for those looking for the comfort of memory foam while camping. Their products often feature a combination of supportive layers that contour to the body, ensuring restful sleep even on the go, and they can fit in smaller spaces typically found in camper setups.
What Are the Best-Selling Brands of Camper Mattresses?
The best-selling brands of camper mattresses are known for their comfort, durability, and suitability for various camping situations.
- Therm-a-Rest: Renowned for their self-inflating mattresses, Therm-a-Rest offers a range of options that balance weight and comfort, making them ideal for backpackers and campers alike. Their products often feature high-quality foam that provides excellent insulation and support, ensuring a good night’s sleep even in the great outdoors.
- REI Co-op: REI’s in-house brand provides a variety of camper mattresses that cater to different needs, including inflatable and foam options. Their mattresses are designed with outdoor enthusiasts in mind, featuring durable materials and thoughtful designs that enhance comfort during extended camping trips.
- Big Agnes: Big Agnes offers unique sleeping systems that often combine a sleeping bag with a compatible sleeping pad, providing a comprehensive solution for campers. Their mattresses are lightweight, packable, and constructed with high-quality materials that ensure both durability and comfort on various terrains.
- Sea to Summit: This brand is known for its innovative designs, especially in the realm of inflatable sleeping mats. Sea to Summit mattresses often incorporate features like an integrated pump and multi-layer construction, which provide excellent comfort and warmth, making them perfect for both casual camping and more rugged adventures.
- Coleman: A household name in camping gear, Coleman offers affordable and reliable air mattresses that are popular among family campers. Their products typically feature built-in pumps and are designed for easy setup, making them a convenient choice for casual camping trips.
How Can You Extend the Life of Your Camper Mattress?
- Use a Mattress Protector: A high-quality mattress protector can shield your mattress from moisture, dirt, and spills. This barrier not only keeps the mattress clean but also prevents wear and tear, ultimately prolonging its lifespan.
- Regular Cleaning: Clean your mattress regularly by vacuuming and spot cleaning stains immediately. This prevents the buildup of dust mites and allergens, which can degrade the material over time.
- Proper Storage: When not in use, store the mattress in a dry, cool place and avoid folding it if possible. Proper storage prevents creasing and damage that can occur from improper handling.
- Rotate the Mattress: Rotating your mattress every few months helps distribute weight evenly and prevents sagging in specific areas. This practice ensures more consistent support and comfort throughout its lifespan.
- Limit Exposure to Moisture: Ensure that your camper is well-ventilated to avoid moisture buildup, which can lead to mold and mildew. Using moisture absorbers can also help maintain a dry environment, preserving the integrity of the mattress materials.
- Choose Quality Materials: Invest in a high-quality mattress made from durable materials designed for camping. The best camper mattresses often feature waterproof covers and resistant foams that can endure the rigors of outdoor use.
- Avoid Heavy Weight: Refrain from placing excessive weight on the mattress, such as standing or jumping on it, which can cause structural damage. Proper weight distribution ensures that the mattress retains its shape and support for longer.
What Is the Price Range for High-Quality Camper Mattresses?
Benefits of high-quality camper mattresses include enhanced comfort during sleep and better support for the back and joints, which can prevent discomfort and pain during extended periods of camping. Moreover, many camper mattresses are designed to be compact and lightweight, making them easier to pack and transport. This is especially beneficial for those who enjoy backpacking or travel in smaller vehicles.
Solutions and best practices for selecting a camper mattress involve thoroughly assessing individual needs, such as firmness preference, sleeping style, and any specific health considerations. It’s advisable to test different mattresses when possible, as comfort can be subjective. Additionally, investing in a high-quality mattress protector can extend its lifespan by guarding against moisture, spills, and wear, ensuring a good night’s sleep for many camping adventures to come.
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