<prompt> Human: I am currently in college and the bed I currently have is terrible! I have had back problems, and think its due to the bed. I find myself sneaking into my parents room in the morning when they leave to work, or crashing on the couch many nights. Im considering purchasing either a Twin XL or a Full bed since Im still living at home, and the room at my house is small! Im going to pay for it on my own, and have a budget of about 300. I could wait a little longer, and save up more, but I feel desperate at this point! Im lost, and have heard horror stories of mattress stores. Would purchasing a mattress online be smart? It scares me not being able to try it prior to purchase. Please help me!!!  <response>: Mattresses are a deeply personal thing. Not knocking anyone here, but take anything that is x was greatterrible with a grain of salt. Especially if you dont know what you like e.g., firm, soft, ... your best bet is to go to a store and try some out.If youre lucky, your previous mattress was so garbage that any mattress will be a major improvement. If not, you could spend 900 on a mattress that you hate equally. Go to the store and try them out - theres a reason they have display mattresses. Leave the online buying to when you a have money to spare and b dont have time to go to the store. And before you say youre too busy with college - you will never have more free time than now. 