Day Cab Sleeping: Tips For A Good Night's Rest

Sleeping in a day cab is challenging due to the limited space available, and some truckers claim that it is illegal. However, there are several ways to make the most of the small space and get some rest. One way is to construct a foam-padded sleep board that fits over the seats. Another option is to use a hammock, which can be attached to the cab's door and hover above the seating area. A third option is to purchase a day cab conversion kit to extend the cab and create more sleeping space. Additionally, making sure the cab is clutter-free, using blackout curtains or a windshield cover to block out light, and having the right bedding and climate control can also improve sleep quality.

It is illegal to sleep in a day cab

While it is not federally illegal to sleep in your car in the US, some states have specific laws prohibiting sleeping in a day cab. For example, in California, sleeping in your car at rest stops is legal for up to 24 hours, but no camping or tent pitching is allowed. In Florida, sleeping in your car is illegal in some parts, such as the Florida Keys, and the legality may vary in different regions of the state.

In Virginia, overnight parking at rest areas and waysides is prohibited, so sleeping in your vehicle at a rest stop is not allowed. Tennessee has similar restrictions, with many cities prohibiting sleeping in cars on both private and public property.

Therefore, it is essential to check the specific laws and regulations of the state and local area you are in to ensure you are not breaking any laws by sleeping in a day cab.

To avoid any legal issues, it is recommended to find alternative options for resting, such as checking into a hotel or motel, or parking in designated rest areas or truck stops that allow sleeping in your vehicle. Remember to log your break as "off-duty" and not as a "sleeper berth" to avoid any misunderstandings with the Department of Transportation (DOT).

Make a makeshift bed

Making a makeshift bed in your day cab can be done with a bit of ingenuity and some tools. Here are the steps to follow:

First, you need to measure the space you have available in your day cab. This will determine the size of your bed. Take into account the dashboard, gear shifter, and other features to ensure you have enough space to move around and drive comfortably when the bed is not in use.

Next, you'll need to gather your materials. One option is to use plywood or particleboard as the base for your bed. You can find these materials at most hardware stores. Cut the wood to size, following the measurements you took of your cab. If you want to be able to store your bed behind the passenger seat, you may need to cut the wood into multiple pieces that can be easily assembled and disassembled.

Now it's time to add some comfort to your bed. You can use a memory foam mattress topper or camping pad, and secure it to the wood with adhesive. Alternatively, you can cover the wood with foam and fabric for a more finished look.

Finally, add some bedding! Be sure to keep your sheets, blankets, and pillows clean and dry by storing them in a sealed container when not in use.

When you're ready to use your makeshift bed, simply assemble the pieces (if necessary), place it over the seating area of your day cab, and get a good night's rest!

Remember, while this option may be more comfortable than sleeping hunched over the steering wheel, it's still not as restful as a real bed. If you find yourself frequently sleeping in your day cab, consider investing in a day cab conversion kit or a different truck with better sleeping accommodations.

Use a hammock

If you're looking for a comfortable way to sleep in your day cab, consider investing in a hammock. A hammock can provide a much-needed power nap when you're stranded, delayed, or too tired to keep driving. Here's how you can use a hammock to get some rest:

Choose the Right Hammock

Select a hammock designed specifically for day cabs, such as the Trucksnoozer. This hammock fits inside any day-cab truck in under ten seconds by trapping the specially designed ends over the doors. It's adjustable to fit a full range of vehicle widths and is also suitable for cars, vans, campers, SUVs, and pickup trucks.

Set Up the Hammock

The Trucksnoozer hammock fits across the cab from door top to door top. Simply trap the ends of the hammock over the doors, and you'll have a comfortable sleeping spot ready in no time.

Enhance Your Comfort

To make your hammock experience even more comfortable, consider adding some accessories. For example, you can get a cheap inflatable pillow from Amazon to support your head and neck. Additionally, if you're setting up the hammock outside of your truck, you can use 1-foot pieces of 1-inch PVC or wooden dowel to hang the hammock. Place these outside of the upper part of the door to prevent the straps from pulling through and messing up the weather seal.

Practice Makes Perfect

It might take a little practice to get used to sleeping in a hammock. Don't be discouraged if it feels a bit awkward at first. Give yourself a couple of tries to get comfortable with the setup and the feeling of sleeping in a hammock.

Using a hammock in your day cab is a convenient and innovative way to catch some rest when you're on the road. With a little preparation and the right equipment, you'll be able to nap comfortably and safely.

Get a day cab conversion kit

Day cab conversion kits are available from several companies, including Daycab Company, Prairie Technology, and Iowa 80. These kits allow you to turn a sleeper cab into a day cab, providing a cost-effective way to maximise the use of your sleeper cab.

The kits are designed for major truck brands, including Peterbilt, Kenworth, Freightliner, International, Volvo, Sterling, and Western Star Trucks. They come in basic or deluxe versions and include different components and features. For example, some kits are compatible with OEM windows, while others include interior window trim, window glass with a seal and lockbead, or exterior seals.

When choosing a day cab conversion kit, it is essential to consider the compatibility with your truck's make and model. Additionally, you may need to calculate the cost of purchasing components separately and compare it with the prices of complete kits to determine the most cost-effective option.

Prairie Technology, in particular, emphasises safety as a fundamental issue in their design protocol. They will not sell a product or convert a truck that they would not feel comfortable using themselves, ensuring structural soundness and safety for the end user.

Daycab Company, as the original day cab conversion company and the largest aftermarket upholstery manufacturer for class 8 trucks, offers kits with new water-resistant upholstery board and new foam under your choice of colour and style. They also provide a lifetime manufacturer's warranty for their kits.

Declutter the space

The first step to creating a comfortable sleeping environment in your day cab is to declutter and maximise the limited space available. Start by removing any unnecessary items from the cab. Only keep what is essential for your trip, and find creative storage solutions for these items. Make use of any storage compartments or pockets in the cab to stow away smaller items, and consider investing in additional storage solutions if needed. For example, you could install a storage net or use stackable storage boxes to utilise vertical space efficiently.

Keep the space organised by designating specific areas for different items. Group similar items together and consider using labels or dividers to easily locate what you need. This will save you time and reduce clutter, making it easier to convert your cab into a sleeping space when needed.

If you have larger items that cannot be easily stored inside the cab, consider investing in an external storage solution such as a roof rack or a cargo box. This will free up space inside the cab and provide a more comfortable and spacious sleeping area.

Remember, the key to decluttering is to be ruthless. Only keep what you truly need, and don't be afraid to let go of items that are taking up valuable space. By decluttering and organising your space efficiently, you'll create a more relaxing and sleep-friendly environment in your day cab.

Frequently asked questions