Sleeping In A Day Cab: Is It Possible?

Sleeping in a day cab is a topic of discussion among truck drivers. While some drivers claim that it is illegal to sleep in a day cab, others argue that it is not illegal as long as you are not sitting in the driver's seat or parked illegally. Some drivers have shared their experiences of sleeping in a day cab, including using hammocks, sleeping boards, or conversion kits to make the small space more comfortable. However, the consensus is that day cabs are not designed for sleeping and that it is preferable to find a hotel or other comfortable place to rest.

It is illegal to sleep in a day cab, according to a Reddit user

According to a Reddit user, it is illegal to sleep in a day cab. However, there are some ways around this. For example, if you are not expecting many overnights, you can book a hotel or motel for the night. If you are going to sleep in your day cab, make sure to log it as off-duty and sleep on the passenger side of the vehicle so that you are not at the controls.

One Reddit user describes how they slept in their day cab for a week, which was an uncomfortable experience. They suggest getting a sleeper or going elsewhere. However, another user disagrees, stating that it is not illegal and that many drivers have slept in their day cabs in the past.

There are some ways to make sleeping in a day cab more comfortable. For example, you can construct a foam-padded sleep board that fits over the seats or get a hammock that attaches to the cab's door and hovers above the seating. You can also buy a day cab conversion kit to extend the cab and provide extra sleeping space.

Some drivers have also suggested sleeping diagonally and elevating the head to make the most of the limited space. It is important to be creative and find what works best for you to get a good rest and stay safe while on the road.

Day cabs aren't designed for sleeping, but it is possible with some investment or ingenuity

Day cabs are designed for day travel and are not meant for sleeping. However, if you're determined to sleep in a day cab, there are a few options to consider with some investment or creativity. Here are some ways to make it work:

The Law

Firstly, it's important to note that while some sources suggest it is illegal to sleep in a day cab, others claim that as long as you are parked legally and not at the controls, you won't get into trouble. Make sure to log your status as off-duty and be aware that you cannot log it as a sleeper berth.

The Investment Route

If you have some money to spare, you can purchase a day cab conversion kit to extend the cab and create extra sleeping space. Alternatively, invest in a commercially manufactured mech cot that is designed to fit perfectly on top of the backseat of your truck.

The Creative Route

If you're handy, you can construct a foam-padded sleep board that fits over the seats of your day cab. Measure a piece of particleboard or plywood to fit the seating area, then cover it with fabric and foam for a comfortable sleeping surface. Another creative option is to use a hammock. Camping hammocks and custom-made hammocks designed specifically for day cabs can be attached to the cab's door, hovering above the seating to provide a comfortable place to nap.

The Basic Route

If you're looking for a simpler solution, you can try using milk crates or a 5-gallon bucket with a pillow between the seats to create a makeshift bed. While not the most comfortable option, it will do the trick if you're desperate for some shut-eye.

The Pickup Truck Twist

If you're sleeping in the cab of a pickup truck, you can create a sleeping pallet from plywood to make the space more comfortable. Layer bedding, sleeping bags, or use a sleeping pallet for added comfort. Remember to keep your bedding clean and dry by storing it in a sealed container.

While day cabs are not designed for sleeping, these options can help you get some rest when needed. However, it's always a good idea to plan ahead and look for a comfortable place to sleep whenever possible.

A pickup truck cab is even tighter for sleeping than a day cab

Sleeping in a day cab is possible, but it's not ideal. While it's not illegal, it also doesn't meet the requirements of a sleeper berth, which has specific dimensions according to regulations. This means that while you can sleep in a day cab, you can't log it as a sleeper berth, and you won't get the advantages of hours of service via the sleeper berth split provision.

Crew cab trucks offer the most interior space of all pickup truck cabs, with four full-size doors and enough room for up to six people. They typically have the most legroom and headroom, making them the most comfortable option for passengers. However, even with their larger size, crew cab trucks still may not provide as much space as a day cab, especially when it comes to sleeping.

So, while it may be challenging to get a good night's rest in either a pickup truck cab or a day cab, the former is likely to be even tighter and less comfortable. If you're planning to sleep in your vehicle regularly, it's worth considering a larger option or investing in a proper sleeper berth.

A day cab conversion kit can be purchased to extend the cab and create extra sleeping space

While it is not illegal to sleep in a day cab, it is certainly not ideal. Truck drivers have been known to take power naps in their day cabs, but this is not a sustainable solution for longer periods of rest. Some have resorted to creative solutions, such as hammocks or padded boards, but these are not the most comfortable options.

A more practical solution for those seeking extra sleeping space is to purchase a day cab conversion kit. These kits can extend the cab, providing additional legroom, storage, and a more comfortable sleeping area. One example is the Freightliner M2 10" Extended Day Cab Upfit, which adds 10 inches of interior space to the factory day cab. This extra space alleviates cramped legs and backaches, making long-haul trips more bearable.

Day cab conversion kits are available for various truck models, including Peterbilt, Kenworth, Freightliner, International, Mack, and Western Star. The kits come in basic or deluxe options and may include components such as interior window trim, window glass with a seal and lockbead, or upholstery kits with water-resistant boards and new foam.

For those seeking a more cost-effective solution, it is worth considering the benefits of a day cab conversion kit. By investing in one of these kits, you can extend your cab, create extra storage, and, most importantly, gain a more comfortable sleeping space for those long hauls. This option not only improves your comfort but also ensures you can get the rest you need to stay alert and safe on the road.

Hammocks are a popular option for sleeping in a day cab

To set up a hammock in your day cab, you can purchase two D-ring anchors and a pair of hooks or carabiners. Attach the anchors to the wall of your truck and use the hooks to secure your hammock. This setup allows you to easily take down the hammock when you're back on the road and don't need it.

Some people also recommend using wooden dowels or PVC pipes to hang the hammock. These can be placed through the straps of the hammock and hung just outside the upper part of the door. This method helps to prevent the hammock from pulling through and messing up the weather seal.

In addition to hammocks, there are other creative solutions for getting some rest in a day cab. Some people suggest using a plywood or particle board with foam padding to create a makeshift bed. This can be placed across the seats or stored behind them when not in use. Others recommend using a cooler with a padded cushion or even just a memory foam headrest on the steering wheel for short naps.

While hammocks and DIY solutions can be great for quick naps, if you're looking for a more permanent and comfortable sleeping area, you might consider purchasing a conversion kit for your day cab or trading it in for a sleeper truck. These options will provide a more long-term solution for getting a good night's rest while on the road.

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