If you’re planning a budget-friendly road trip, you might be wondering, “Can you sleep in a rental car?”
The simple answer is YES, and it’s a great option for saving money on accommodations.
I’ve even done it during my recent trip to North Wales.
However, you can’t just park and sleep anywhere, and being intoxicated while doing so is illegal.
If you’re considering this, it’s crucial to be prepared, as sleeping in a car can be uncomfortable without the right essentials.
Trust me on this, I went and bought an air mattress and privacy shades the next day and my experience was SO MUCH BETTER 🤩
So let’s explore the do’s and don’ts of sleeping in a rental car and how to make it a viable option for your travels!
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Can You Sleep In A Rental Car?
It’s possible, but you need to be mindful of local laws and regulations regarding where you can park overnight.
You cannot just pull up anywhere and sleep, safety first and all that!
Rest stops, campsites, and certain car parking areas are usually safe bets- just make sure you are prepared for the weather too.
To make sure you don’t get into trouble, stick to the parking rules of your chosen area.
It’s also super important that you are not on private land without permission. Most land is owned by someone and you can be done for trespassing 😳
- To make these easier to find, these are my go-to free resources 👇
- Park4night– is community-based so you know the best spots in your area
- Parkn’Sleep -for spontaneous and safe overnight stays
Packing List For Sleeping In A Car (Car Camping)
Sleeping in a car can be a convenient and budget-friendly option for travellers, but proper preparation is key to ensure a comfortable experience. Here’s a packing list to help you make the most of your sleep in the car:
- Blankets and Sleeping Bags
- Pillows and headrest
- Window Shades: Block out light and maintain privacy- highly recommend these ones from Amazon!
- Earplugs and Eye Mask
- Portable Air Mattress or Sleeping Pad– another must item!
- Emergency Kit
- Water and Snacks
- Personal Hygiene Items
- Comfortable Clothing: Wear comfortable clothing suitable for sleeping in the car, such as loose-fitting layers.
- Navigation Tools: Have maps or GPS navigation devices handy to find suitable overnight parking spots.
- Safety Items: Ensure your safety by packing items like a fully charged phone, emergency contacts, and a whistle for signalling in case of emergencies.
- ☝️ A Walkie-Talkie is a great addition, especially in remote areas!
- Trash Bags
- 🐶 Crate or Cage for any pets
Can I Sleep In My Car Instead Of At A Hotel?
Yes, and it can save you a decent amount of money!
Just keep in mind that you can’t just rock up anywhere, turn your engine off and pitch there for the night.
Some car parks only allow 2-hour stays, most remote spots are privately owned and streets can be noisy.
If sleeping in your car is the best option for you, use Park4night to find the best safe spots near you.
I should also mention that if you are going to an event like a wedding, a hotel is probably your best bet.
You have to be sober to stay in your car and a hotel will make getting ready and unwinding from your celebrations a lot easier.
(Whatever you do, do not be drunk in your car as it is against the law and will be fined).
Where Can You Sleep In Your Car?
There are LOADS of great places you can rest in your hire car so in terms of options, you have plenty!
However, there are some rules you need to follow when picking your spot.
Do not park for the night:
❌ On double yellow lines
❌ Anywhere that is a loading area or states no parking (Obvious I know but tired minds can forget 🙈)
❌ In front of driveways
❌ On private land without permission
❌ In car parks with maximum stay limits
To help you know where to sleep, here are some options to consider:
✅ Campsites – probably the safest option but note that some might require a reservation or a small fee
✅ Some pub/restaurant car parks– call ahead and speak to them first
✅ Rest Stops and Service Areas– great choice if you are doing lots of driving, just watch out for any time restrictions
✅ Permitted roadsides– routes like NC500 in Scotland allow for roadside sleeping but check before as this doesn’t apply to every road.
My 50 cents 💬 : For peace of mind, I always find the best place to sleep in your car is a designated campsite for this or a large pub car park.
How To Sleep In A Car Safely?
Renting a car and sleeping in a new destination can be stressful even without a car.
But don’t worry, I have done it myself a few times and got used to it pretty easily.
My one piece of advice is location, location, location!
This is the best way to put your mind at ease and keep safe. But this isn’t the only thing you need to take into account.
These are my top tips to have a safe and restful night:
- 👌 Secure Location: Choose a well-lit area with good visibility.
- 🤫 Be Discreet: Keep a low profile and be respectful of your surroundings.
- 🔒 Stay Safe: Lock your doors, keep windows slightly open for ventilation, and be aware of your surroundings.
FAQs
You probably have a few questions before you decide if you should sleep in your rental.
As a road trip lover, I know how important it is to have all the answers, especially when it comes to the legal side of things.
Here I have rounded up all my research and experience to answer the questions that may not jump to your mind straight away, but probably will at some point!
In general, sleeping in a layby is not explicitly illegal, but it’s often discouraged. Local councils may have their own regulations, and some laybys may have signs showing restrictions.
Comfort, space, and convenience are important when sleeping in a car. This is why models like Honda CR-V, Toyota Avalon, Volkswagen Atlas and Ford Flex are some of the best options.
Yes, you can sleep in an SUV, and many people find it a practical option for road trips and camping. They offer plenty of space, and storage and are comfortable which is rare for many vehicles.
It is not illegal to lie down in the backseat of a car when it is stopped in a safe location.
Cracking a window is recommended because it can get really stuffy and allows frequent air circulation. It also protects you from carbon monoxide poisoning.
Can You Sleep In A Rental Car Final Thoughts
So there we have it, you can sleep in a rental car if you are doing so legally.
It’s a fantastic way to save money on accommodations, especially if you’re prepared with the right essentials!
Just make sure to follow local regulations about where you can park overnight and always avoid being intoxicated while resting in your car.
With careful planning, sleeping in a rental car can be a comfortable and practical option for your travels.
I also love hearing of epic places people manage to stay so let me know your fave spots! 😍
I hope this article helped, here are some more to get your planning started:
✔️ The Ultimate Normandy Road Trip Guide
✔️15 Best Road Trip Luggage Options
✔️ The ULTIMATE Packing List For Any City Break
✔️ 27 Must-Have Travel Items For Europe
Lowri Thomas is the founder of Many Other Roads. She lives and travels in Europe and has explored more than 40 countries. She is joined on her travels with her dog Scout and they explore Europe mostly by road. Born in Wales, she also shares the best things to do in Wales, UK and beyond. She helps over 50,000 people per month plan epic Europe adventures and road trips.
