{"id":50267,"date":"2020-04-21T05:23:10","date_gmt":"2020-04-21T05:23:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/laidbackcamping.com\/?p=49238"},"modified":"2023-10-17T11:11:14","modified_gmt":"2023-10-17T18:11:14","slug":"car-camping-comfortable","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/car-camping-comfortable\/","title":{"rendered":"How To Make Car Camping Comfortable"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Whether you\u2019re camping in your car to save money or for convenience, you\u2019re going to want to be comfortable. Fortunately I have several tips and tricks that will let you rest easy on four wheels and get the most out of your car camping experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There are many things you can do to make car camping as comfortable as possible. <strong>These simple steps will go a long way toward making your camping trip more enjoyable<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/pack-canoe-camping\/\">Pack your gear in containers<\/a> so it\u2019s easy to move and organize. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Use layering of blankets to let you adjust to temperature swings. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Choose sleeping pads that pack small but cover the whole sleeping area. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bring fabric or cardboard to block out the windows for shade and sleeping. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pack air freshener and window screen to reduce odors and allow airflow without inviting the bugs inside.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>My wife and I took a spontaneous road trip to Indianapolis from Georgia and tried camping out in our 2002 Expedition &#8211; with absolutely no preparation. Those were some of the most uncomfortable nights we have spent anywhere! <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The tips shared below will spare your next car camping trip from the painful discomfort we endured.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"684\" src=\"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/sleeping-in-car-1024x684.webp\" alt=\"Camping in car\" class=\"wp-image-49230\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1.4970760233918128;width:676px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/sleeping-in-car-1024x684.webp 1024w, https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/sleeping-in-car-300x200.webp 300w, https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/sleeping-in-car-768x513.webp 768w, https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/sleeping-in-car-600x401.webp 600w, https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/sleeping-in-car.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_63 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<label for=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-66121766524aa\" class=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-label\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #5d7772;color:#5d7772\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #5d7772;color:#5d7772\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/label><input type=\"checkbox\"  id=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-66121766524aa\" checked aria-label=\"Toggle\" \/><nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/car-camping-comfortable\/#Organizing_Your_Gear\" title=\"Organizing Your Gear\">Organizing Your Gear<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/car-camping-comfortable\/#Space_To_Stretch\" title=\"Space To Stretch\">Space To Stretch<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/car-camping-comfortable\/#Privacy\" title=\"Privacy&nbsp;\">Privacy&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/car-camping-comfortable\/#Bedding_Options\" title=\"Bedding Options\">Bedding Options<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/car-camping-comfortable\/#Indoor_Climate\" title=\"Indoor Climate\">Indoor Climate<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/car-camping-comfortable\/#Closing_Thoughts\" title=\"Closing Thoughts\">Closing Thoughts<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Organizing_Your_Gear\"><\/span>Organizing Your Gear<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Part of the appeal of camping in your car is the convenience, but it\u2019s only truly convenient if you get organized first. When your gear and stuff gets tossed all over the back of your car you\u2019re going to spend more time putting all it back in place than if you had just organized it to begin with.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Since the goal of car camping is to go from sleeping to driving as quickly and easily as possible, these storage hacks are going to make it easier than you ever thought it could be.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Pack In Clear Bins<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>To start, you\u2019re going to want some clear plastic bins. These are great for getting everything in one place and keeping it there, and you can see what\u2019s in each of them without having to dig through every bin you have. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Bonus points if they\u2019re stackable like theses <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B00CQGTGZQ?tag=lifeonroute02-20,aps,197&amp;sr=8-12&amp;&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=laidbackcamping-20&amp;linkId=5e598ddb9d731b53a97596aa333fd229&amp;language=en_US\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">12qt boxes with locking lids<\/a>. Add in some cardboard to create dividers that allow you to compartmentalize each one. This will make finding your gear even easier. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Sturdy stackable boxes can also be used for tables and work surfaces inside and outside of the car too, making them dual purpose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<div class=\"aawp\">\n\n            \n            \n<div class=\"aawp-product aawp-product--horizontal aawp-product--css-adjust-image-large\"  data-aawp-product-asin=\"B00CQGTGZQ\" data-aawp-product-id=\"13530\" data-aawp-tracking-id=\"lifeonroute02-20\" data-aawp-product-title=\"IRIS USA 12 Quart Stackable Plastic Storage Bins with Lids and Latching Buckles 6 Pack - Clear Containers with Lids and Latches Durable Nestable Closet Garage Totes Tubs Boxes Organizing\">\n\n    \n    <div class=\"aawp-product__thumb\">\n        <a class=\"aawp-product__image-link\"\n           href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B00CQGTGZQ?tag=lifeonroute02-20\" title=\"IRIS USA 12 Quart Stackable Plastic Storage Bins with Lids and Latching Buckles, 6 Pack - Clear,...\" rel=\"nofollow noopener sponsored\" target=\"_blank\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aawp-product__image\" src=\"https:\/\/m.media-amazon.com\/images\/I\/41ThgS3O55L.jpg\" alt=\"IRIS USA 12 Quart Stackable Plastic Storage Bins with Lids and Latching Buckles, 6 Pack - Clear,...\"  \/>\n        <\/a>\n\n            <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"aawp-product__content\">\n        <a class=\"aawp-product__title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B00CQGTGZQ?tag=lifeonroute02-20\" title=\"IRIS USA 12 Quart Stackable Plastic Storage Bins with Lids and Latching Buckles, 6 Pack - Clear,...\" rel=\"nofollow noopener sponsored\" target=\"_blank\">\n            IRIS USA 12 Quart Stackable Plastic Storage Bins with Lids and Latching Buckles, 6 Pack - Clear,...        <\/a>\n        <div class=\"aawp-product__description\">\n            <ul><li>MADE IN USA: Our storage bins are proudly crafted in the USA using high-quality, durable materials, ensuring your belongings stay safe and...<\/li><li>SEE-THROUGH DESIGN: You can easily see what's inside the box without opening it, thanks to its transparent design.<\/li><li>STACKABLE STORAGE: Maximize space in your home, office, or playroom. The securely locking lid keeps items safe and allows bins to be stacked...<\/li><\/ul>        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"aawp-product__footer\">\n\n        <div class=\"aawp-product__pricing\">\n            \n            \n            <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/gp\/prime\/?tag=lifeonroute02-20\" title=\"Amazon Prime\" rel=\"nofollow noopener sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"aawp-check-prime\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-content\/plugins\/aawp\/assets\/img\/icon-check-prime.svg\" height=\"16\" width=\"55\" alt=\"Amazon Prime\" \/><\/a>        <\/div>\n\n                <a class=\"aawp-button aawp-button--buy aawp-button aawp-button--amazon\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B00CQGTGZQ?tag=lifeonroute02-20\" title=\"Check Latest Deals\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener sponsored\">Check Latest Deals<\/a>\n            <\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n    \n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Hanging Pockets<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Another helpful way to keep everything contained is to hang a shoe organizer from your backseat grab bar or headrest. You can organize everything from food to toiletries to clothes in its various pouches, sorting by days or just by item. If you\u2019re having trouble finding one short enough to fit well, you can always trim off the last couple of rows on a longer one.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Using Cargo Netting<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Last but not least, you can put a mesh bungee against the roof of the car, securing it to the grab bars. This will let you lay out jackets and other bulky clothes items that don\u2019t like to stay in a bin, while still having them be reasonably accessible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Roof Top Storage<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Taking advantage of a roof top storage box is a great way to keep your gear from crowding your sleeping area. Anything that you don&#8217;t need access to at night or regularly while you&#8217;re in the car can easily be locked in a roof top storage box. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Storage boxes like the <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B00BCLL8C0?tag=lifeonroute02-20,aps,334&amp;sr=8-8&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=laidbackcamping-20&amp;linkId=b1eb42a99b9507b04480774f3dc13099&amp;language=en_US\" target=\"_blank\">SportRack Vista XL<\/a> attach to the roof rack or rails that exist on many cars and can be added for a reasonably low cost. They provide water tight storage and usually have place to install a pad lock or combination lock for security.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If your vehicle doesn&#8217;t have a rack you can add one or opt for a roof top storage bag instead. They function similarly to a solid box but can be mounted and strapped down directly on the roof surface. Bags tend to be a little more difficult to load and unload than rigid box but they are a bit more flexible in size and shape. Whichever you choose, bringing a collapsible step along will help with accessing your gear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<div class=\"aawp\">\n\n            \n            \n<div class=\"aawp-product aawp-product--horizontal aawp-product--css-adjust-image-large\"  data-aawp-product-asin=\"B07XP7L9YV\" data-aawp-product-id=\"13531\" data-aawp-tracking-id=\"lifeonroute02-20\" data-aawp-product-title=\"Mockins 60x20x6 Heavy-Duty Trailer Hitch Cargo Carrier 500lb Cap & 16 CuFt Soft Shell Waterproof Luggage Cargo Bag |Folding Hitch Cargo Carrier w\/Net & Hitch Accessories |2  Receiver Hitch Cargo Rack\">\n\n    \n    <div class=\"aawp-product__thumb\">\n        <a class=\"aawp-product__image-link\"\n           href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B07XP7L9YV?tag=lifeonroute02-20\" title=\"Mockins 60x20x6 Heavy-Duty Trailer Hitch Cargo Carrier 500lb Cap & 16 CuFt Soft Shell Waterproof...\" rel=\"nofollow noopener sponsored\" target=\"_blank\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aawp-product__image\" src=\"https:\/\/m.media-amazon.com\/images\/I\/51-nRvQRBiL.jpg\" alt=\"Mockins 60x20x6 Heavy-Duty Trailer Hitch Cargo Carrier 500lb Cap & 16 CuFt Soft Shell Waterproof...\"  \/>\n        <\/a>\n\n            <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"aawp-product__content\">\n        <a class=\"aawp-product__title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B07XP7L9YV?tag=lifeonroute02-20\" title=\"Mockins 60x20x6 Heavy-Duty Trailer Hitch Cargo Carrier 500lb Cap & 16 CuFt Soft Shell Waterproof...\" rel=\"nofollow noopener sponsored\" target=\"_blank\">\n            Mockins 60x20x6 Heavy-Duty Trailer Hitch Cargo Carrier 500lb Cap & 16 CuFt Soft Shell Waterproof...        <\/a>\n        <div class=\"aawp-product__description\">\n            <ul><li>\ud835\uddd5\ud835\uddf2\ud835\ude06\ud835\uddfc\ud835\uddfb\ud835\uddf1 \ud835\udde2\ud835\uddff\ud835\uddf1\ud835\uddf6\ud835\uddfb\ud835\uddee\ud835\uddff\ud835\ude06 Cargo Carrier Transport: Easily attachable to any 2\" receiver, this hitch cargo...<\/li><li>\ud835\uddd6\ud835\uddee\ud835\uddff\ud835\uddff\ud835\ude06 \ud835\udde6\ud835\uddfa\ud835\uddee\ud835\uddff\ud835\ude01 & \ud835\uddd6\ud835\uddfc\ud835\uddfb\ud835\uddf3\ud835\uddf6\ud835\uddf1\ud835\uddf2\ud835\uddfb\ud835\ude01: Keep belongings safe & dry in our waterproof & durable...<\/li><li>\ud835\uddd8\ud835\ude05\ud835\uddfd\ud835\uddf2\ud835\uddff\ud835\uddf6\ud835\uddf2\ud835\uddfb\ud835\uddf0\ud835\uddf2 the \ud835\uddd7\ud835\uddf6\ud835\uddf3\ud835\uddf3\ud835\uddf2\ud835\uddff\ud835\uddf2\ud835\uddfb\ud835\uddf0\ud835\uddf2: Say goodbye to wobbling & embrace a safer ride like...<\/li><\/ul>        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"aawp-product__footer\">\n\n        <div class=\"aawp-product__pricing\">\n            \n            \n            <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/gp\/prime\/?tag=lifeonroute02-20\" title=\"Amazon Prime\" rel=\"nofollow noopener sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"aawp-check-prime\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-content\/plugins\/aawp\/assets\/img\/icon-check-prime.svg\" height=\"16\" width=\"55\" alt=\"Amazon Prime\" \/><\/a>        <\/div>\n\n                <a class=\"aawp-button aawp-button--buy aawp-button aawp-button--amazon\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B07XP7L9YV?tag=lifeonroute02-20\" title=\"Check Latest Deals\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener sponsored\">Check Latest Deals<\/a>\n            <\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n    \n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<p>By being creative you can get a lot more space for sleeping in you vehicle than you&#8217;d think. Creating spaces to store your gear out of the way will help you stretch out for a comfortable sleep. Don&#8217;t overpack but don&#8217;t leave behind the pieces you&#8217;ll need for your trip either. For a full list of what to bring camping have a look at our list of <a href=\"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/what-to-bring-tent-camping\/\"  rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Essential Gear To Bring Camping<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Space_To_Stretch\"><\/span>Space To Stretch<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>While there are many reasons that our Expedition was so bad to sleep in, it did have one main thing going for it: leg room. Size does matter in this case, and the more room you have to stretch out the better it\u2019s going to be for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Be Creative With Your Space<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>While you may immediately think that large SUVs and vans are the only way to go, that\u2019s not the case at all. You can convert your truck bed into sleeping space by adding a truck camper, or you can put a topper on the bed.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Size Matters<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you have a Honda CR-V, a Subaru Forester, or a Toyota RAV-4 you\u2019re in luck &#8211; these are the compact SUVs with the most trunk space, and therefore the most space to spread out. Hatchbacks will give you more space than a sedan, but with those you risk not having enough room to lie flat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The size of your vehicle is going to do a lot to determine how comfortable you are, but even if you\u2019re trying to rough it in a smart car there are still ways to get a good night&#8217;s rest.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Consider An Alternate<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Hammocks are always an option if you\u2019re going to be camping in wooded areas, or anywhere with two trees close enough to string one up. You can make your base camp in almost any car and still have minimal setup when you get to where you want to camp, with all the leg room you could want.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Privacy\"><\/span>Privacy&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Almost everyone has been in that awkward situation of having to change in your car where other people can see, now imagine having to do that every day on your trip that there isn\u2019t a bathroom nearby.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re like me and you\u2019d rather not strip down to your skivvies in front of whoever else may be camping with you, there are several options to give you a little bit more privacy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Block Out The Light<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>You can get adjustable car window curtains that hook right into the window tracks, or ones that attach above the windows and hang down. Not all curtains are created equal &#8211; some only block light while others are rated for UV protection and cooling as well.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Proactive Security <\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Curtains and other shades will not only get you some much needed privacy for yourself, they will keep prying eyes away from your gear as well. While you would hope no one is window shopping your car, I like to play it safe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<div class=\"aawp\">\n\n            \n            \n<div class=\"aawp-product aawp-product--horizontal aawp-product--ribbon aawp-product--sale aawp-product--css-adjust-image-large\"  data-aawp-product-asin=\"B07PZKTVQN\" data-aawp-product-id=\"13604\" data-aawp-tracking-id=\"lifeonroute02-20\" data-aawp-product-title=\"ZATOOTO Car Side Window Sun Shades - Privacy Magnetic Black 2 Pcs Covers Blinds Curtains - Auto Accessories Sunshades Keeps Cooler Screen for Baby Sleeping\">\n\n    <span class=\"aawp-product__ribbon aawp-product__ribbon--sale\">Sale<\/span>\n    <div class=\"aawp-product__thumb\">\n        <a class=\"aawp-product__image-link\"\n           href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B07PZKTVQN?tag=lifeonroute02-20\" title=\"ZATOOTO Car Side Window Sun Shades - Privacy Magnetic Black 2 Pcs Covers Blinds Curtains - Auto...\" rel=\"nofollow noopener sponsored\" target=\"_blank\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aawp-product__image\" src=\"https:\/\/m.media-amazon.com\/images\/I\/51b5Xw5hHcL.jpg\" alt=\"ZATOOTO Car Side Window Sun Shades - Privacy Magnetic Black 2 Pcs Covers Blinds Curtains - Auto...\"  \/>\n        <\/a>\n\n            <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"aawp-product__content\">\n        <a class=\"aawp-product__title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B07PZKTVQN?tag=lifeonroute02-20\" title=\"ZATOOTO Car Side Window Sun Shades - Privacy Magnetic Black 2 Pcs Covers Blinds Curtains - Auto...\" rel=\"nofollow noopener sponsored\" target=\"_blank\">\n            ZATOOTO Car Side Window Sun Shades - Privacy Magnetic Black 2 Pcs Covers Blinds Curtains - Auto...        <\/a>\n        <div class=\"aawp-product__description\">\n            <ul><li>Car Side Windows Sun Shades: Why people need car window curtains? Beause sun exposure, stealing of items, interior aging, baby rest is...<\/li><li>Fit Metal Surface Window Frame: Easy to finished in 5 seconds. Our car side window sunshades will be super firm because we place 16 pieces...<\/li><li>Driving Safely and Comfortablely: Our car covers can be free stretching, we see the rear view mirror easily, which will not hinder the...<\/li><\/ul>        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"aawp-product__footer\">\n\n        <div class=\"aawp-product__pricing\">\n                                                        \n            \n            <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/gp\/prime\/?tag=lifeonroute02-20\" title=\"Amazon Prime\" rel=\"nofollow noopener sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"aawp-check-prime\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-content\/plugins\/aawp\/assets\/img\/icon-check-prime.svg\" height=\"16\" width=\"55\" alt=\"Amazon Prime\" \/><\/a>        <\/div>\n\n                <a class=\"aawp-button aawp-button--buy aawp-button aawp-button--amazon\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B07PZKTVQN?tag=lifeonroute02-20\" title=\"Check Latest Deals\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener sponsored\">Check Latest Deals<\/a>\n            <\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n    \n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Bedding_Options\"><\/span>Bedding Options<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>You\u2019ve got your gear all put up in bins and other organizers, you\u2019ve got your curtains up and ready to close, and it\u2019s about time to get some sleep. Now what?&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Arguably the most important part of sleeping in a car is making sure that you\u2019ve got the right bedding. What works best for you will depend on your preferences, but there are multiple options to consider when deciding what to lay your head down on.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Layer Your Covers<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Unfortunately, <a href=\"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/sleeping-bag-too-warm\/\"  rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">sleeping bags are not so great in warm weather<\/a>. You\u2019ll probably end up just sleeping on top of it. Having a few lighter sheets will allow you to adjust your coverings to the temperature of the car. It&#8217;s likely that you&#8217;ll need an extra layer at night and want to loose it in the morning. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Inflatable Mattress<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>You can find inflatable mattresses in all sizes from those that go across your backseat to those that take up your whole trunk. These deflate for relatively easy storage, but come with one main downside: if you get a leak you\u2019re in trouble. You may be able to find the hole and tape over it, but odds are you\u2019ll find yourself sleeping on a couple of layers of flat plastic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Foam Mattress<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>One other option you can consider is a foam topper. This is a seriously comfortable chunk of foam that you lay down in your trunk, and it\u2019s probably the best night\u2019s sleep you\u2019ll get. You can find foam toppers from one inch thick to five, and all you would have to do is throw a sheet on top. If I could go back and do my Indianapolis trip again, this is definitely the way I\u2019d go.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Foam provides better insulation against the cold than an inflatable mattress does making it more comfortable on colder nights. Foam will also contour around seatbelts and wheel wells better too, it can even be cut to the shape of your car interior.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Self Inflating Mattresses<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Foam doesn\u2019t compress well for storage and inflatable mattresses tend to leak and are a pain to inflate and deflate every day. This is exactly why self inflating mattresses like the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B01N2XXQVB?tag=lifeonroute02-20\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">KingCamp Triple Zone<\/a> are perfect for car camping. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Just roll it out and open the valves and the foam will expand inside drawing in air to create a perfectly padded surface for sleeping. The compression straps help the mattress to pack down better for storage and along with the included pillows the it packs away easily in it&#8217;s own storage bag.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<div class=\"aawp\">\n\n            \n            \n<div class=\"aawp-product aawp-product--horizontal aawp-product--ribbon aawp-product--sale aawp-product--css-adjust-image-large\"  data-aawp-product-asin=\"B01N2XXQVB\" data-aawp-product-id=\"13605\" data-aawp-tracking-id=\"lifeonroute02-20\" data-aawp-product-title=\"KingCamp Self Inflating Sleeping Pad for Camping Double Sleeping Mat with 2 Travel Pillows Foam Camping Pad as Car Mattress for Hiking Backpacking Tent Car Green\">\n\n    <span class=\"aawp-product__ribbon aawp-product__ribbon--sale\">Sale<\/span>\n    <div class=\"aawp-product__thumb\">\n        <a class=\"aawp-product__image-link\"\n           href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B01N2XXQVB?tag=lifeonroute02-20\" title=\"KingCamp Self Inflating Sleeping Pad for Camping Double Sleeping Mat with 2 Travel Pillows Foam...\" rel=\"nofollow noopener sponsored\" target=\"_blank\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aawp-product__image\" src=\"https:\/\/m.media-amazon.com\/images\/I\/41WgRYD1coL.jpg\" alt=\"KingCamp Self Inflating Sleeping Pad for Camping Double Sleeping Mat with 2 Travel Pillows Foam...\"  \/>\n        <\/a>\n\n            <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"aawp-product__content\">\n        <a class=\"aawp-product__title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B01N2XXQVB?tag=lifeonroute02-20\" title=\"KingCamp Self Inflating Sleeping Pad for Camping Double Sleeping Mat with 2 Travel Pillows Foam...\" rel=\"nofollow noopener sponsored\" target=\"_blank\">\n            KingCamp Self Inflating Sleeping Pad for Camping Double Sleeping Mat with 2 Travel Pillows Foam...        <\/a>\n        <div class=\"aawp-product__description\">\n            <ul><li>\u3010SELF INFLATING SLEEPING PAD\u3011The double self-inflating camping pad is designed to achieve a perfect sleeping experience. Compression...<\/li><li>\u3010DOUBLE SLEEPING PAD\u3011The Size of the Camping Mattress is 78 x 51.2 inches and 1.6 inches Thickness, Wide Sleeping Pad for 2 people ,...<\/li><li>\u3010UNIQUE DESIGN\u3011With triple zones designed Comfort Pattern facilitates body immersion to redistribute pressure, along with 100% Micro...<\/li><\/ul>        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"aawp-product__footer\">\n\n        <div class=\"aawp-product__pricing\">\n                                                        \n            \n                    <\/div>\n\n                <a class=\"aawp-button aawp-button--buy aawp-button aawp-button--amazon\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B01N2XXQVB?tag=lifeonroute02-20\" title=\"Check Latest Deals\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener sponsored\">Check Latest Deals<\/a>\n            <\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n    \n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Pillow Talk<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>No matter what you choose to make a bed out of you\u2019ll also want a nice pillow. There are several compressible and inflatable pillows out there that will help maximize your space while traveling, or you can go for your favorite one from home.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Indoor_Climate\"><\/span>Indoor Climate<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Running your car to regulate the temperature is always an option, but it\u2019s not usually the most practical one. Instead, try one of these solutions to regulate your temperature<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Warming Up Your Space<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you need to stay warm you can try boiling water, bottling it, and putting them in your sleeping bag or under the covers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can also warm rocks in a fire, then carefully put them on top of other cold rocks on your floorboards. There are portable heaters that you can bring as well, but I\u2019d personally be wary of using them while I was asleep.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Cooling down your space<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re needing to cool down, make sure you\u2019re parked in shade if at all possible. You\u2019ll also want to go for linen sheets &#8211; they stay cooler than jersey sheets and other heavy fabrics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Battery powered fans can help keep air circulating inside, and you\u2019ll want to have a window or two cracked to let the hot air out. Moisture buildup is always a concern, keeping the air moving and having a window cracked will help keep the humidity down.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Keeping The Bugs Out<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Cracked windows mean an inlet for bugs, but fortunately you can prevent the creepy crawlies from climbing into bed with you. There are magnetic bug screens that go on the outside of your windows, and spraying the outside of your car with certain essential oils like peppermint can also be a deterrent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Closing_Thoughts\"><\/span>Closing Thoughts<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Car camping can be a comfortable experience, and getting yourself organized will prevent a cramped neck and sore back. Picking the right bedding, preparing for the weather, and putting up some curtains will make camping in your car feel a little more like home.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Whether you\u2019re camping in your car to save money or for convenience, you\u2019re going to want to be comfortable. Fortunately I have several tips and tricks that will let you<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":49233,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"advgb_blocks_editor_width":"","advgb_blocks_columns_visual_guide":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[220],"tags":[],"author_meta":{"display_name":"Beau","author_link":"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/author\/mcmanus_beau\/"},"featured_img":"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/view-from-car-1-300x200.webp","coauthors":[],"tax_additional":{"categories":{"linked":["<a href=\"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/category\/tips-and-tricks\/\" class=\"advgb-post-tax-term\">Tips and Tricks<\/a>"],"unlinked":["<span class=\"advgb-post-tax-term\">Tips and Tricks<\/span>"]}},"comment_count":"0","relative_dates":{"created":"Posted 4 years ago","modified":"Updated 6 months ago"},"absolute_dates":{"created":"Posted on April 21, 2020","modified":"Updated on October 17, 2023"},"absolute_dates_time":{"created":"Posted on April 21, 2020 5:23 am","modified":"Updated on October 17, 2023 11:11 am"},"featured_img_caption":"","series_order":"","acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/50267"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=50267"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/50267\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":50349,"href":"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/50267\/revisions\/50349"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/49233"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=50267"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=50267"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=50267"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}