Car camping might not sound like the epitome of comfort at first, but with the right preparation and know-how, it can be surprisingly cozy and a fantastic way to explore the open road. Having personally spent three months living and traveling in my car, I discovered firsthand how enjoyable and liberating car camping can be. Whether you’re embarking on an epic cross-country adventure or just planning a weekend getaway, sleeping in your car offers a budget-friendly and flexible alternative to traditional accommodation. The key to a successful and comfortable car camping experience lies in understanding how to optimize your car for sleep.
To help you transform your vehicle into a comfortable mobile bedroom, here are nine essential tips for achieving a restful night’s sleep in your car.
Build a Comfortable Sleeping Platform
Creating a level and supportive sleeping surface is paramount for comfortable sleep in your car. Various options are available, ranging from inflatable mattresses designed for cars to elaborate custom-built platforms. A simple online search will reveal a plethora of ideas and setups for car camping.
For my own car camping setup, I opted for a DIY approach and built a wooden sleeping platform. After carefully measuring the cargo area of my Hyundai Santa Fe and drafting a plan, I used plywood, screws, and a hinge from a local hardware store to construct a platform that sits atop the folded-down rear seats. This platform created a level sleeping surface, eliminating the uncomfortable slopes and gaps of the car’s seating arrangement. My platform measured approximately 30 inches wide and was long enough for me to fully stretch out – a crucial factor for comfortable long-term car camping, especially for someone of my height (5’3″). To maximize length, remember to push the front seats as far forward as possible before settling in for the night.
Beyond the platform itself, the right mattress and bedding are essential for comfort. You can choose from various mattress types, including inflatable air mattresses, roll-up foam pads, and foldable memory foam mattresses. I personally opted for a foldable memory foam mattress with a removable cover from Amazon. Memory foam is excellent as it conforms to your body and can be easily cut to fit the specific dimensions of your car.
For bedding, I used a combination of a sleeping bag and a lightweight summer comforter, which proved warm enough even on nights when temperatures dipped below freezing (around 20 degrees Fahrenheit). And for that extra touch of home-like comfort, I brought along two feather pillows – a simple addition that significantly enhanced my sleep quality in the car.
Use Window Coverings for Privacy
Window coverings are not just a suggestion – they are a necessity for comfortable and discreet car camping. They serve multiple crucial functions: providing privacy from prying eyes, regulating the internal temperature of your car, and effectively blocking out unwanted external light. I chose to make my own DIY window coverings using roll-up insulation, black spray paint, and duct tape. I spray-painted one side of the insulation black to minimize attention and maintain a low profile, avoiding the reflective shine that might draw unwanted curiosity. The reflective side, when facing outwards, is designed to reflect sunlight and keep the car cooler in warm weather. Conversely, when the black side faces outwards in colder conditions, it theoretically helps retain heat inside the car.
I found that these DIY coverings were effective at keeping my car cooler during hot days. While I’m less certain about their ability to retain warmth, they undeniably provided excellent privacy, blocked out light effectively, and added an essential layer of discretion to my car camping setup. I wouldn’t consider car camping without them.
If DIY projects aren’t your preference, pre-made custom window coverings are readily available. Weathertech, for example, offers custom-fit window coverings for a wide range of car models, typically ranging from $60 to $200. While a more significant investment, they are a worthwhile option for frequent car campers seeking convenience and a perfect fit.
Drown out Noise and Light
As a light sleeper, minimizing noise and light pollution was a major concern when I first started sleeping in my car. While secluded, off-grid locations are ideal for tranquility, they aren’t always accessible, especially without a four-wheel-drive vehicle or if you prefer established areas. Often, legal overnight car camping spots are near highways or shared parking lots, which can be brightly lit and noisy due to traffic, semi-trucks, and RV generators. Being prepared to manage these environmental factors is key to restful sleep.
My DIY window coverings were very effective at blocking out light, but I also found a sleep mask to be a valuable addition, especially in very bright locations. Although it often ended up on the floor by morning, it consistently helped me fall asleep initially.
Road noise proved more challenging to eliminate entirely. During my first few nights, I was hyper-aware of every sound, constantly listening for approaching vehicles or voices. As I became more accustomed to car camping, the road noise became less alarming but still a nuisance. To combat this, I started using headphones to listen to music or podcasts before bed. Alternatively, white noise or meditation apps were incredibly effective at masking external sounds and promoting relaxation. Apps like Calm or dedicated white noise apps became my go-to solutions for drowning out disruptive noises.
Find Some Fresh Air
Adequate ventilation and fresh air are crucial for comfortable sleep in a car. It’s unsafe and inefficient to leave your car idling for extended periods for air conditioning. Therefore, when parked, finding ways to introduce a gentle breeze and fresh air circulation becomes essential for a sound night’s sleep.
Initially, I used a magnetic mesh net to cover my open sunroof at night. This worked well on cooler nights, effectively keeping bugs out while allowing airflow. However, it wasn’t ideal in rainy conditions. On warmer nights, I found that opening the car windows provided a significantly better breeze compared to the sunroof alone. Many companies offer mesh window covers and rain guards specifically designed for car windows, which are excellent for car camping, particularly in more secluded spots. However, in public parking lots, rolling down windows can increase exposure to roadside noise, which, in my experience, outweighed the benefit of fresh air in noisy locations.
A portable fan proved to be the most effective solution for increasing airflow when I couldn’t comfortably leave windows open. A small, battery-operated fan can make a significant difference, especially in temperatures above 70 degrees Fahrenheit. While the exact fan I used wasn’t perfect due to limited battery life and airflow range, having a portable fan of any kind is invaluable for maintaining a comfortable temperature and air circulation inside the car, leading to a more restful night’s sleep.
Always Have a Reliable Power Source
Investing in a portable power station, like the Jackery Portable Power Station, was one of the smartest decisions I made for my car camping journey. Initially, I almost didn’t bring it, but it quickly became an indispensable part of my setup. Its compact size was perfect for fitting into my car without taking up excessive space, and it proved to be a powerhouse for charging my essential electronics. The Jackery effortlessly charged phones, laptops, and cameras simultaneously, significantly enhancing the convenience and comfort of my car camping experience.
Initially, I had assumed that my car battery and the two car outlets would suffice for charging my devices while driving. However, I quickly discovered that charging through the car battery was incredibly slow. The Jackery 500, on the other hand, maintained its charge remarkably well. Even with frequent use, it rarely dropped below 20% charge over a week, providing peace of mind knowing I always had reliable power for my devices. I primarily recharged the Jackery during hotel stays or visits with family, which worked seamlessly into my travel routine. However, it also comes with a car charger for on-the-go recharging if needed.
I also purchased SolarSaga 100W solar panels with the intention of recharging the Jackery using solar power while on the road. However, in practice, I didn’t end up using them. My travel style involved frequent moves and short parking durations primarily for sleeping or hiking. Solar panels could be a valuable addition for backcountry camping in sunny, open areas where you spend extended time near your car, providing a sustainable way to recharge your power source when other options are unavailable. Otherwise, for more conventional road trips, the solar charger might be an unnecessary extra expense.
Take a Hot Shower
For me, feeling clean and refreshed is directly linked to better sleep. While I could stretch to three days without showering in cooler temperatures, daily showers became essential as the weather warmed up.
I strategically planned my routes to include stops near Flying J truck stops, YMCA centers, gyms, and campsites that offered pay-for-showers. The cost ranged from $3 to $15 per shower, depending on the location. Some facilities provided towels and toiletries, while others were more basic, offering just a shower stall with clean water. Regardless of the amenities, a clean shower was always a welcome luxury. Flying J Truck Stops offered the most upscale shower experience, with amenities like Italian marble bathrooms, hot water, fresh towels, and toiletries, albeit at a higher price.
When shower facilities weren’t accessible, body wipes became my backup for maintaining a sense of cleanliness. I also made it a point to wash my face and brush my teeth at least twice a day using my Rinse Kit. Feeling clean was non-negotiable for me to sleep comfortably in my car.
UPDATE: After my initial road trips, I invested in a Black Card membership at Planet Fitness. This membership grants access to any Planet Fitness gym across the country. As I frequently traveled in areas with Planet Fitness locations, it became a perfect and cost-effective solution for daily hot showers, often more convenient and economical than travel center showers, which can cost around $20 per shower. The Black Card membership, costing approximately $23 per month and $50 annually, proved to be a great investment for both hygiene and fitness while on the road, offering 24/7 gym access and helping me stay in shape during my travels.
Always Keep Enough Water
Water is a fundamental necessity for any road trip, but it becomes even more crucial when you’re sleeping in your car. Beyond a five-gallon jug of drinking water, I relied on a two-gallon Rinse Kit Plus to wash my face and brush my teeth at least twice daily throughout my 12-week road trip. As I mentioned earlier, feeling clean is essential for my sleep comfort, so having ample water for washing up was a priority. The Rinse Kit provides pressurized water on demand, making hygiene routines on the go incredibly convenient.
A Rinse Kit is also versatile for other needs, proving useful for washing dishes, rinsing hands, cleaning off feet after hikes, and even for pet care if you’re traveling with animals.
Go to the Bathroom Right Before Bed
Minimizing nighttime awakenings is key to achieving comfortable sleep in your car. Initially, I was quite concerned about bathroom access while car camping and prepared extensively, bringing a trowel, Go Anywhere Kits, a collapsible portable potty, and absorbent toilet bags. However, it turned out that public restrooms were readily available throughout most of the US, especially along state roads and interstates. I ended up using the emergency toilet bags only a handful of times throughout my entire trip.
The main challenge was finding restrooms that were open late when needed. To address this, I strategically parked in locations where I knew restrooms would be accessible until late, typically grocery stores, Walmart parking lots, or 24-hour casinos (usually open until 10 or 11 PM). I made sure to use the restroom immediately before bed and consciously reduced liquid intake for 2-3 hours beforehand to minimize nighttime bathroom needs. I also kept the front seat area clear, just in case an urgent need arose during the night and I needed to use one of the absorbent toilet bags discreetly. If I managed to sleep through the night, my first bathroom break was usually not needed until around 5 AM at the earliest, and I would typically head to a Starbucks, as most locations open between 5 and 5:30 AM.
Find a Safe Place to Sleep
Choosing a safe and legal overnight parking spot is arguably the most critical factor for achieving restful sleep in your car. The peace of mind that comes from knowing you are in a secure and permitted location significantly reduces anxiety and enhances sleep quality.
Initially, it took me a few nights to fully relax and stop being hyper-vigilant, constantly listening for noises or approaching vehicles. This heightened alertness kept me on edge. However, once I grew more confident and consistently parked in legal and safe overnight spots, my sleep quality improved dramatically. Knowing I wasn’t going to be disturbed by a knock on the window in the middle of the night made a world of difference.
I strongly recommend utilizing reliable car camping apps like iOverlander, HipCamp, Dyrt, and Free Roam to locate safe and legal parking options. Reading user reviews, asking locals for recommendations, and doing thorough research on the area where you plan to sleep are all essential steps to ensure you are parked legally and safely. I consistently slept more soundly when I either paid for a campsite or parked in a parking lot with other campers, compared to taking a chance alone at a roadside pull-off.
Car sleeping might not be for everyone, but it’s an experience worth trying at least once. I hope these tips empower you to embark on your first (or next) car camping adventure with confidence and comfort. Beyond sleep, remember to also equip yourself with the right car camping gear, assemble a comprehensive car emergency kit, and familiarize yourself with essential car camping safety tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey on the road.
