Car Camping: Sleeping Comfortably In Your Car For Six Days

Sleeping in your car for six days straight may be necessary if you're on a road trip, camping, or trying to save money on a hotel. While it may not be the most comfortable option, there are several ways to make the experience more bearable. Here are some tips to help you sleep in your car safely and comfortably:

- Find a safe and legal place to park: Look for well-lit areas such as rest stops, Walmart parking lots, national parks, residential neighbourhoods, or religious buildings. Check local laws and regulations to ensure overnight parking is permitted.

- Prepare your car: Dress comfortably in loose, breathable clothing. Bring pillows, blankets, and a comfortable mattress if it fits in your car. Consider using eye masks, earplugs, and neck pillows to block out light and noise for a better night's sleep.

- Maintain a comfortable environment: Crack open a window for fresh air and circulation to regulate the temperature. If it's cold, insulate your car with blankets or sleeping bags, and if it's hot, park in the shade and use sunshades to keep the car cool.

- Practice good sleep hygiene: Avoid caffeine, electronics, and bright lights before bedtime. Establish a consistent sleep schedule, and try relaxation techniques like deep breathing to wind down.

- Prioritize safety: Always lock your car doors, and never leave the engine running while sleeping, as this can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. Keep valuables out of sight, and park in well-lit and secure areas.

Choosing a safe and legal location

When choosing a safe and legal location to sleep in your car, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, it is important to be aware of any local laws or regulations that may prohibit sleeping in vehicles. In some places, it is illegal to sleep in your car, while others may have specific restrictions on overnight parking. Therefore, it is crucial to research the laws and ordinances of the specific state or city you plan to stay in.

Once you have confirmed that sleeping in your car is legal in your chosen location, there are several options for safe and legal places to park:

• Rest stops and welcome centres: These areas are designed for travellers to take a break and often offer overnight parking, toilet facilities, and even surveillance cameras for added security.
• National and state parks: Some national and state parks allow overnight parking in designated camping areas, providing a safe option for those who prefer the presence of park rangers.
• Dispersed camping sites: The U.S. Department of the Interior Bureau of Land Management and the U.S. Forest Service offer dispersed camping sites across the country, which are usually free and provide a more secluded option.
• Walmart parking lots: Many Walmart stores allow free overnight parking, making them a convenient and easily accessible option. It is advisable to check with the store manager beforehand to confirm availability and comply with any local laws.
• Safe parking programs: Some cities have designated safe parking programs that provide permits for people to sleep in their vehicles in specific locations, such as religious institutions or public company parking lots.
• Residential neighbourhoods: Sleeping on a residential street can be a safe option, especially if you know someone in the area. However, it is important to respect the privacy of the residents and follow any parking restrictions or permit requirements.
• 24-hour businesses: Places like gyms, casinos, and grocery stores that are open 24 hours can be good options as there will be people coming and going at all times, providing added security.

When selecting a parking spot, it is essential to prioritise your safety and comfort. Look for well-lit areas with security cameras and try to park near other cars or in populated spaces. Avoid isolated or unlit areas, and always trust your instincts if a location doesn't feel right. Additionally, keep your valuables out of sight, lock your doors, and let someone know your location for added safety.

Preparing your car for sleep

Make your car comfortable

If you're going to be sleeping in your car for six days, it's important to make it as comfortable as possible. If you have a car that fits a mattress, consider purchasing a twin-size mattress. If you have a pickup truck with a topper, a full-size mattress may work. If you don't have space for a mattress, bring pillows and blankets to help make sleeping in your car more comfortable. Your favourite pillow can help keep your head and neck in a healthy alignment overnight.

Dress comfortably

Whether you're driving or sleeping, it's helpful to wear loose, breathable clothing. Ideal fabrics include cotton, linen, wool, and bamboo. Loose clothing will help you feel more comfortable, while breathable fabrics can prevent you from becoming too warm. It's also a good idea to pack a pair of cosy socks, as wearing socks to bed in a cool environment may improve your sleep quality.

Adjust the seats

If you're sleeping in the back seat, move the front seats forward to create more space. If the back seats fold down, do so to create a more comfortable sleeping position. You could also pop open the back so you can put your legs (or head) in the trunk area.

Keep your car clean

A tidy car makes it easier to find things, especially at night. It's also more pleasant to sleep in a clean car, and a few inches can make a big difference in comfort. Additionally, a clean car is less likely to attract attention, as a filthy car filled with trash and bags may look suspicious.

Cover your windows for privacy

Even if you're sleeping in a public space, you probably want a bit of privacy. Use sun shades, towels, blankets, or other fabrics to cover the windows and keep prying eyes out.

Park in the shade

Cars can heat up quickly when the sun comes up, even if it feels cool at night. Park in the shade when possible and/or use windshield and side window sun shades to help reduce the car's interior temperature.

Keep your doors locked

Always ensure your car doors are locked for safety. Double-check that your doors are securely locked before going to sleep.

Turn off the car

Don't be tempted to keep the car running while you sleep, as this could lead to fatal carbon monoxide poisoning.

Bring water and snacks

Don't rely on rest stop conveniences for sustenance – always bring more water and food than you think you'll need. Even mild dehydration can lead to a significant increase in minor driving errors during long drives.

Managing temperature and ventilation

Temperature and ventilation are key factors to consider when sleeping in a car. Here are some tips to help you manage these aspects effectively during your six-day car camping experience:

• Ventilation: It is crucial to ensure proper ventilation when sleeping in a car. Keep the windows slightly open, about half an inch or less, to allow for air circulation and prevent stuffiness. This is important for your comfort and to reduce condensation build-up inside the car.
• Temperature Control: The optimal temperature for sleep is generally between 60 to 67 degrees Fahrenheit. In hot weather, park in shaded areas or use windshield sun shades to reduce the interior temperature. You can also bring a battery-operated mini-fan to enhance air circulation. In cold weather, invest in a good sleeping bag rated for low temperatures and bring extra blankets. Dress in layers to retain body heat, and consider using thermal window coverings to minimise heat loss.
• Moisture Control: Keep your car dry to avoid the unpleasant feeling of waking up in a damp environment. Ensure your sleeping bag and bedding stay dry, and consider cracking a window slightly to reduce condensation.
• Bug Protection: If you need to keep the windows open during hot weather, use thin cloth or mesh screens to cover the windows and keep insects out while still allowing air circulation.
• Privacy and Light Control: Cover your windows with sun shades, towels, or blankets to maintain privacy and block out light during the night. This will help you sleep better and prevent the car from heating up too much in direct sunlight.
• Carbon Monoxide Awareness: Never leave your car running with the engine on while you sleep, as this can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide is a colourless and odourless gas that can be lethal. Always turn off the engine and find alternative ways to stay comfortable, such as using extra blankets or a battery-operated heater.

Staying clean and hygienic

Keep Your Car Clean and Tidy

It is essential to maintain a tidy and organised space in your car, especially if you plan to sleep in it for an extended period. A clean car is more pleasant to sleep in, and it also helps you find things more easily, especially after dark. Keep only the essentials within easy reach, such as a flashlight, water, a small backpack with a change of clothes, and a towel. Put other items away during the day to avoid clutter and create a more spacious and comfortable sleeping environment. A neat car also attracts less attention and is less likely to raise suspicions.

Practice Good Personal Hygiene

Maintaining personal hygiene is crucial, especially when living and sleeping in a confined space like a car. Here are some tips to stay clean and fresh:

• Hand sanitiser and baby wipes are your friends. Use them frequently to clean your hands before eating, after using the bathroom, or anytime your hygiene is in doubt. They are particularly useful when you have limited access to running water.
• If you plan to spend multiple nights in your car, locate places where you can take a shower, such as truck stops, campgrounds, or public beaches with shower facilities. Some truck stops even offer pay showers, which can be a great investment in your comfort.
• Consider joining a gym with nationwide locations that offer shower facilities. This way, you can freshen up wherever your travels take you.
• For a more portable solution, invest in a "solar shower." These are bags that heat water during the day using solar energy, allowing you to shower or wash up at night.
• No-rinse shampoo and body wash products are also handy when you don't have access to a shower. They can help you feel clean and refreshed without using much water.
• Keep a small trash bag in your car to dispose of waste properly and maintain a neat and hygienic space.

Manage Waste and Sanitation

Proper waste management is essential to maintaining hygiene and avoiding unpleasant odours in your car. Here are some tips:

• Use public restrooms whenever possible, especially those at rest stops, gas stations, and campgrounds.
• If you need to relieve yourself in an emergency, consider using a portable urinal, such as a coffee can with a lid, for men and women.
• For solid waste, invest in a portable camping toilet or a collapsible toilet that you can discreetly dispose of at the nearest waste disposal facility.
• Always dispose of waste responsibly and follow "Leave No Trace" principles to minimise your impact on the environment.

Maintain Good Ventilation

Breathing fresh air and maintaining proper ventilation are crucial for your comfort and hygiene. Here are some tips:

• Open your windows or sunroof slightly to allow fresh air to circulate. Even a small crack of a window can make a significant difference.
• Use window shades or reflective covers during the day to block direct sunlight and keep the interior cooler.
• Consider investing in a small, battery-operated fan to enhance air circulation and keep you cool during warm nights.
• If you're camping in cold weather, ensure your car is well-insulated to minimise heat loss. Use thermal window coverings and reflective sunshades.
• Keep a squeegee in your car to wipe down any condensation or moisture buildup on your windows in the morning.

Choose the Right Sleeping Gear

The right sleeping gear can make a big difference in your comfort and hygiene. Here are some tips:

• Invest in a comfortable and insulated sleeping bag rated for the temperature conditions you'll be sleeping in.
• Bring extra blankets to stay warm during chilly nights.
• A comfortable pillow is essential for supporting your head and neck. Consider a travel pillow that is easy to pack and transport.
• Pack a compact camping pillow or bring a full-size pillow from home if space allows.
• If you're camping in cold weather, pack an insulated blanket or a temperature-rated sleeping bag to stay warm.
• In warm weather, opt for lightweight and breathable bedding, such as a thin sheet or a summer-appropriate sleeping bag.

By following these tips and staying vigilant about your personal hygiene and the cleanliness of your car, you can maintain a high level of cleanliness and hygiene during your six-day car camping experience.

Keeping yourself entertained

Pack Entertainment Options:

• Bring books, magazines, e-readers, or your favourite reading material to pass the time.
• Portable games like Trivial Pursuit, Cards Against Humanity, or travel-sized board games can be great fun if you're travelling with others.
• Electronic devices such as tablets, e-readers, portable DVD players, iPods, or smartphones can provide hours of entertainment. Don't forget to pack headphones and chargers!

Make the Most of Technology:

• Listen to music, podcasts, audiobooks, or stand-up comedy. You can also download podcasts or audiobooks to entertain yourself offline.
• Watch movies or shows on your devices, especially if you have a long drive ahead.
• Play mobile games on your phone or portable gaming devices.

Get Creative:

• Writing can be an excellent way to pass the time. Write letters, emails, stories, or work on that to-do list in your head.
• Journaling about your trip and your thoughts can be a fun way to document your experiences.
• Take and edit photos, or upload them to social media.
• Meditate or try a new workout routine.

Play Car Games:

• Alphabet game: Look for letters A-Z on signs and license plates.
• License Plate Game: Try to spot license plates from different states.
• 20 Questions: Think of a person, place, or thing, and let others ask yes or no questions to guess what you're thinking of.
• Solitaire: Play with a deck of cards or on your smartphone or tablet.
• Word games or trivia games are also excellent options.

Take Care of Practical Tasks:

• Organise your emails or photos.
• Unsubscribe from unwanted mailing lists.
• Delete unwanted photos or files to free up space on your devices.
• Plan your next workout routine or meditate using a meditation app.

Make Strategic Stops:

• Map out fun and interesting places to stop along your route, such as landmarks, restaurants, or parks.
• Look for rest stops or welcome centres that offer overnight parking and facilities like bathrooms, temporary shelters, or internet access.
• National and state parks may offer designated camping areas where you can sleep in your vehicle.

Remember to stay safe, follow local laws, and be mindful of your surroundings while enjoying your time on the road!

Frequently asked questions