Q&A for How to Make a Bed in Your Car

Yes, you can sleep, camp, and park your car overnight at national parks, but it depends on the rules of the specific park. Most national parks don’t allow overnight parking in their main parking lots, but many have designated campgrounds where you can camp, including sleeping in your car. These campgrounds often require reservations or permits, so it’s a good idea to plan ahead. Some parks and federal or state lands also allow overnight parking in certain areas outside of campgrounds, but this varies by location. To be safe, you should check the park’s website or visitor center to know their rules before you go. Each park has its own guidelines, and following them helps protect the environment and ensures you have a safe and enjoyable experience. If in doubt, ask a park ranger—they’re there to help!

You can buy special air mattresses that fit around the wheel well, or you can put some luggage under your mattress to lift it over the wheel well.

Most cars have reclining seats, so you could pull it back. Also, in the front, you would have extra leg room. You could also use a neck pillow.

Use a sweater or a shirt and then curl up tightly. Even beach towels or coats can work as covers if that's all you have.