Brits going on road trips this summer are being urged to follow certain rules to stay safe and avoid hefty fines.
Sleep experts at Online-Bedrooms.co.uk have provided their advice on how to get the best rest possible while spending the night in a car.
Sleeping in the back of the car offers a spontaneous way for people to explore new places without spending a fortune on a hotel.
However, those planning to hit the road are being told they must be safely parked and sober if they want to camp in their cars, or else they risk receiving a hefty fine and points on their licence.
Drivers are also advised to find a quiet spot away from street lights and bring an eye mask and earplugs to prevent light and noise from keeping them up.
Since the temperatures drop during the night, it’s important to pack a blanket, pillow and a sleeping bag.
If the road trip is longer than one night then it’s also best to consider bringing a blow-up mattress that can fit in the back of the car.
Nic Shacklock from Online-Bedrooms.co.uk said: “People often go on spontaneous road trips during summer and that means they might have to prepare to sleep in the car for the odd night or two.
“Car camping is a good way to explore new places when you’re on a budget but you need to make sure you’re not drunk and think twice about where you park to avoid breaking any parking restrictions.
“You should also consider your comfort, you don’t want to ruin your trip by not getting enough sleep.
“Remember that even on hot summer days, the temperatures drop during the night, so it’s important to pack some warmer clothes, a sleeping bag and blankets.
“If there’s more room in the back of your car, you can also take a mattress or a camping mat with you.
“The sun rises early in the summer so you might want to bring an eye mask or use window coverings to prevent the bright sun rays from waking you up.”
Tips for sleeping in your car on a road trip
- Don’t break the law
You don’t want your budget-friendly road trip to end up costing you a fortune in fines. This is why you need to avoid consuming alcohol before catching some Z’s in the car and be careful with where you park to ensure you’re not breaking any parking restrictions.
- Back seat setup
If possible, fold down the back seats to create a flat sleeping area. Lay down a camping mat or an inflatable mattress for added comfort.
- Blankets and pillows
Bring a good-quality pillow and a warm blanket or sleeping bag to ensure you’re comfortable and warm. A weighted blanket can be extra comfy in the car, as long as it doesn’t make you too hot.
- Limit the noise
Park in quiet areas, away from busy highways or streets with heavy traffic. You can also bring earplugs or noise-cancelling earphones to block out noise.
- Reduce light
Use window shades or sunshades to block out light and provide privacy. You can also use an eye mask to prevent the sun from waking you up early in the morning.
- Stay safe
Choose a secure location where to park your car and always lock the doors. You should also keep valuables out of sight and bring an emergency kit for unexpected situations.
- Hygiene supplies
It can be challenging to maintain your regular hygiene routine while on a road trip. To help you feel more comfortable before going to bed, consider bringing wet wipes, hand sanitiser, and other personal hygiene items to stay clean.
