Heading out on a long road trip? Whether you're the driver or the 'passenger princess,' you will need to catch some sleep on the way. It's not always safe to sleep in your car when traveling, but if you have to, then you should take the right precautions to stay safe.
Here are some tips to help you sleep in your car securely and comfortably.
Why would anyone sleep in their car when they can book a hotel room? Well, here are some possible reasons:
Budget: Car camping is undoubtedly one of the most affordable options available. It takes very little effort to create a cozy sleeping area. Plus, when you're on the road, sleeping in your car is more affordable than booking a hotel or setting up a tent.
Flexibility: Putting up in your car means no more stressing about booking a hotel in advance or rushing to check in on time. You can go anywhere you want and plan your trip exactly how you like.
Safety in Emergencies: If you find yourself stranded or feeling fatigued while driving at night, opting to sleep in your car can be a much safer alternative.
Here are some tips that can help you sleep comfortably in your car when traveling:
Stay Upright With Your Seatbelt On: To ensure you remain safe when sleeping in a car, it is very important to put on your seatbelt. Unbuckling and sleeping on the side, especially in the back seat, may seem like a good idea, but it's not safe. You should sit up straight and not lean your seat back too much. That's because leaning back reduces the effectiveness of the seatbelt and the airbags in case of an accident.
Decrease the Noise: Noise at night can affect your sleep. Sounds outside the car, like traffic or people, can prevent you from falling asleep. Try using earplugs, a white noise machine, or soft music to drown out the noise and create a more peaceful environment, leading to better sleep.
Get a Travel Pillow: It's important to have a travel pillow whether you're sleeping in the back seat or in the driver's seat. Most travel pillows are U-shaped, so they give neck support without taking up as much space as a regular pillow. Keeping your neck in a neutral position will help you get more comfortable sleeping upright with your seatbelt on.
Leave the Window Slightly Open: Always open at least one window to let fresh air in and prevent your breath from condensing on the inside of the windows. For safety, make sure the opening isn't big enough for someone to reach in. After all, even a small opening can improve airflow.
Be Smart About Where You Sleep: It is wise to plan where you will park your car in advance. This can help you avoid the hassle of trying to find a safe, comfortable, and legal spot late at night when you are already tired. Come up with a list of public and private campgrounds, dispersed camping on public lands, or even large retail parking lots that allow people to park at night.
Communication Is Key: Before settling for a parking spot, you want to make sure it has good cell service. Send a text to see if it goes through. Next, communicate your location to close friends and family members. For extra security, consider purchasing a satellite communication device to send and receive messages and navigate your location.
Know the Local Rules Before Sleeping in Your Car: If you're planning to sleep in your car while traveling, keep in mind that some states have rules on overnight parking without a permit. Many places don't allow people to sleep in their vehicles on public streets, while others allow it only in designated areas like rest stops or campgrounds. So, you should do your research thoroughly to make sure you're not breaking the law.
Make an Exit Plan: The first thing you should do when you're in a new location is to make an exit plan. In this case, your exit plan should involve making the driver's seat accessible. You also want to make sure you can easily drive out of your parking spot in case of an emergency.
It's never a good idea to sleep in your car when traveling. But if you have no choice, you can make it safer and more comfortable by taking the right precautions. Choose the right location, lock your doors, and be prepared for emergencies.
