You need to be able to use the bed with the slide in. Having to deploy the slide to use the bed is not generally an acceptable thing, as there are circumstances where you cannot or do not want to deploy the slide. Parked close to a tree, another camper (yes, they can be that close) or in a Wal-Mart parking lot, are all good reasons to keep the slide in.
In my opinion, slide deployment should never be a necessity to using the interior of the coach/trailer/whatever. It makes it nicer, but should not be mandatory for using it.
Charles
'03 Ram 2500 CTD, 5.9HO six speed, PacBrake Exh Brake, std cab, long bed, Leer top and 2008 Bigfoot 25B21RB.. previously (both gone) 2008 Thor/Dutchman Freedom Spirit 180 & 2007 Winnebago View 23H Motorhome.