Sleeping in Your Car

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Is it illegal to sleep in your car?

People are sleeping in cars in pretty much every country worldwide.  In fact, not only is vehicular homelessness common for many people in some period of their lives but sleeping in your car is even becoming more common than ever. In 2018, CBS News reported the number of people living in their vehicles rose by 46 percent from 2017.

Before looking at whether it’s legal to sleep in your car, let’s understand why one would do so. This stems from general homelessness, which has a range of causes. Poverty, unemployment, rising rent, domestic violence, legal problems, drug abuse, refugee crisis, and mental and physical illness are all significant factors.

Many cities have specific laws against sleeping in your car. It is illegal to sleep in your vehicle in any city which prohibits it. You must also obey parking signs and check up on overnight parking laws. If you are drunk while asleep in your car, you could find yourself in trouble. Regardless of your state, you could get a DUI even if you’re not driving in that state.

Having said that, there are places where it is legal to sleep in your car. Some cities allow you to doze off in rest areas for a few hours. Campground and truck stops are ideal locations, too. Some retailers, like Walmart, are open 24/7 and can allow you to spend the night in their parking lot. If you can get permission, you can always sleep on someone’s private property.

You may find more about your particular state’s stance here.

Can you die from sleeping in your car?

Sleeping in a car comes with its own set of concerns. While it can be a convenient option, it can be stressful, too. Thus, it’s essential to know how safe it is and whether you should do it. Let’s look at a few reasons your life may be in danger while sleeping in a car.

Lack of security

Your car can’t offer you the same level of security as your own house. The car is far more exposed and has fewer locks. If you don’t roll up your windows, anyone could hurt you or even kill you. Even if you do lock up your car, someone would have an excellent chance of breaking into it. There is only so much protection your windows and doors can offer, after all.

Unsafe location for parking

Not all areas are dangerous. Some are much safer than others, and you would be better off sleeping over there. Any area with high crime rates is one you must avoid at all costs. These can include places like alleys or deserted sections of the town. To find the right place for yourself, you may check online crime maps. You may even ask around for safe regions for sleeping in your car. Chances are there is someone who can guide you.

Leaving the engine running

Leaving your engine running while you are sleeping is unwise and risky. This is especially true if the carbon monoxide levels start rising, and you are in an enclosed place. Carbon monoxide levels can rise because of a blockage in exhaust pipes. Malfunctions within the car can also contribute to this occurrence. Opening your SUV's tailgate with closed vents ends up increasing monoxide levels, too.

Poor health condition

This may seem trivial, but it can be dangerous over the long term. Sleeping in your car can give you terrible back or neck issues. Not only does that ruin your posture, but it also hurts a lot. Plus, not everyone can get a decent night's sleep in their cars. Over time, these problems can compound into something hazardous for your body.

Where to shower if you are sleeping in your car

Sleeping in your car isn’t exactly the best way to ensure proper hygiene. When you are homeless, getting any amount of sanitation is a luxury. But, there are ways in which you can get a decent shower now and then.

The best way to ensure a bath for yourself would be to park in a place with showers. This is a no-brainer, but it can be tough finding these spots. Your best bet here is private campgrounds, which often feature shower buildings. Be ready with some extra cash though, because these places won’t be as cheap as a Walmart parking ground. But, at least you can get hot water and even a laundromat.

If you don’t feel like spending the night in a campground, that's all right. Some campsites are generous enough to allow you to use their showers, regardless. They will charge a small fee though, so do your research.

Beyond campgrounds, do consider gyms and local beaches. These spots almost always have showers that you can use. While a gym might not let you use one if you’re not a member, you can always try asking for a favor or going with a member friend. Beaches don’t have this issue though, and you can clean up over there without paying a penny.

Great tips for sleeping in your car

Sleeping in your car is never easy. But, it becomes necessary if you have no other shelter available. There are things that you can do to make the night more bearable though. From making a cozy bed to knowing where to park, here are eight tips that can help you in the process.

Make a warm and comfy bed

Getting cold while sleeping in your car is common and not at all pleasant. You can avoid that by trying to make as comfy and warm a bed as you can. An excellent way to achieve this is by laying the rear seats flat and using a sleeping bag to make a proper bed. If you don’t have a sleeping bag, a sheet or quilt will do.

Get something to amuse yourself

Every night in your car is a very long night. Make sure you have some entertainment options at hand. It could be anything from your smartphone to some of your favorite books.

Don’t leave the engine running

This is super dangerous and thus not advisable at all. A running engine can increase the levels of carbon monoxide around you. This can be even riskier for you if you are parked in an enclosed space.

Leave a window open a bit (as long as it’s safe)

Adequate ventilation is essential. Open the front two passenger windows a bit to ensure that some air comes in. Again, you want to make sure you are in a safe location when you do this.

Cover the windows for privacy

Your homelessness should not deprive you of your right to privacy. You may use a hanging material to cover your front and rear windows. This will keep your valuables hidden from sight, too.

Check up on your state and regional laws

Know where to park your car. It might sound frustrating, but state laws will determine if you can sleep in your car somewhere or not. Educate yourself on these laws as much as you can. You will thank yourself for avoiding fines or possible imprisonment.

Make sure you take care of your bathroom needs

Take the time to shower and relieve yourself before you go to sleep. You might be lucky enough to have bathroom facilities in your own space, though. But in case you don’t, it is best to take care of your bathroom needs in advance however you can.

Plan each day in advance

Life is even more uncertain when you are spending your nights in a car. You never know who or what might disturb you in the morning. Thus, it is wise to plan out the next day before you hit the sack. Set an early alarm. Figure out all the places you want to visit and ensure you have enough fuel. Make a list of three things you want to do the next day. This will give you something to look forward to when you wake up.

How to survive sleeping in your car

Surviving while sleeping in your car sounds tough. It is easier said than done. But, it is not impossible. Try to ensure that you have people in your life whom you can trust. Keep them close, for they will help you when things get unbearable. Even if you are a lone wolf, things don’t have to be so bleak. Educate yourself as much as you can. Try to be as proactive as possible. Maximize your safety using what you’ve learned. Look up the safest spots and try to spend each night there.