9 Best Cars to Sleep in For Camping During Long Road Trip in 2024

top sleep in car 2022

We all want a good sleeping experience in a vehicle on a road trip. You also need to know how to sleep in a car as well as the best cars to sleep in for camping. It is a great way to enjoy a long road trip. These cars are beneficial in the perspective of price, reliability, storage space, and fuel consumption.

The main benefit of sleeping cars is the travel flexibility and cost-saving. But the right approach is to choose the best cars to sleep in without spending an extra amount on fancy hotels. Here I give you detailed information about the best vehicles you can sleep in, including budget options, advice, tips, and discovering the excellent rental.

How to Choose the Best Car to Sleep In

Choosing the best car for sleeping involves careful consideration of various factors to ensure comfort, safety, and practicality during your restful nights on the road. Here are five key points to guide you in making an informed decision:

1. Interior Space:

One of the most critical factors when choosing a car for sleeping is the interior space. Look for vehicles with a spacious cargo area, as this will serve as your sleeping quarters. Larger vehicles like SUVs, minivans, and station wagons generally offer more room than compact cars.

Additionally, consider cars with foldable or removable back seats, as they allow you to create a flat surface for sleeping. The goal is to maximize the available space and provide enough room for a comfortable sleeping position.

2. Ventilation and Climate Control:

Adequate ventilation is crucial to ensure a comfortable sleeping experience and prevent condensation inside the car. Look for cars with windows that can be partially opened to allow fresh air circulation. Some vehicles may come equipped with ventilation fans that can further improve airflow.

Moreover, consider the car’s climate control features. Having the ability to regulate the temperature inside the car will help create a more pleasant sleeping environment, especially during extreme weather conditions.

3. Safety Features:

Prioritize safety when selecting a car for sleeping. Ensure that the vehicle has a reliable locking system to secure yourself and your belongings. A car alarm is an added layer of security that can deter potential intruders.

Research the safety features of the specific make and model you’re interested in, including airbags, stability control, and other safety technologies. Your safety should always be a top priority, even when using your car as a makeshift bedroom.

4. Practicality, Comfort, and Budget:

Consider the practicality of the car for your intended use. Look for features that enhance comfort, such as adjustable seats and a quiet engine. Assess the availability of storage space for your belongings, ensuring that there’s room to keep your essentials organized.

Keep in mind your budget for purchasing and potentially modifying the car for sleeping. Factor in additional costs for accessories like window coverings, camping gear, and storage solutions. Choosing a vehicle that meets your comfort needs without exceeding your budget is crucial for a satisfying and sustainable car-sleeping experience.

5. Longer Interior

Take into account your height and sleeping preferences. If you are tall, prioritize cars with a longer interior to accommodate your height comfortably. A wider interior space can also contribute to a more spacious and restful sleep.

Best 9 Cars To Sleep In For Camping

When it comes to camping, having a car that offers a comfortable and practical sleeping space can enhance your outdoor experience. Here are nine cars that are often considered excellent for sleeping during camping trips in 2024:

1. 2024 Volvo XC90

This Swedish vehicle comes with a premium interior and plenty of room. The XC-90 is a modern car that offers comfort and advanced safety features. Plus, it is trustworthy, reliable, and comfortable to drive. This SUV is available in third-row seating. It is an attractive mid-size car with stunning design and unique qualities.

volvo xc-90 best cars to sleep in

The Volvo XC90 is a stylish, luxury car with engaging styling and a stunning look. It has the choice to fold all the seat flats and create a lot of room. This car offers the facility to fit a mattress inside it. So this is the best car to sleep in with a relaxing interior space.

2. 2024 Chevrolet Equinox

equinox  best cars to sleep in

If you are looking for a modern car with sound features and plenty of space, the equinox is the best model for you. It has plenty of features that make it the best car to sleep in for camping.

The new model of Chevrolet Equinox is among the famous compact crossovers. You can access its outstanding features like 120 power outlets, 4G LTE wifi capability, and a navigation system. This car can provide up to 63.5 cubic feet of space.

3. 2024 Subaru Outback

All versions of the Subaru Outback are the best cars to sleep in for camping the weekend trip. But the 2019 model of this car delivers up to 73.3 cubic feet of space if you want to fold the rear seats, which is better than the VW Golf wagon.

sabaru outback best cars to sleep in

The standard engine of this luxurious car to sleep in is 2.5-litre 175-horsepower. But if you require a more powerful engine that is available in a 3.6-litre flat-six strong motor that churns out 256 horsepower and 247 pound-feet of torque. The prices range for the 2019 Subaru Outback begins at under $35,000 for the 3.6-litre model & $27,000 for the 2.5-litre motor. As a result, you can say this is a modern car for relaxing and sleeping.

4. 2024 Subaru Forester

If you require a little extra space for your long car drive, then you can consider Subaru Forester for your collection. As per additional cargo space, this is an affordable choice to others. The Subaru Forester is the ultimate SUV for a weekend trip.

subaru forester best cars to sleep in

The best feature of this stylish vehicle is to be available in 76.1 cubic feet of cargo space. The feasible price of this modern SUV is $24,295. On the highway, you can obtain 33 miles per gallon & its HP is 182. So these qualities make the best cars to sleep in for a long trip.

5. 2024 Volkswagen Golf Sport Wagen

The Volkswagen Golf Sports Wagen is available with qualities such as Advanced Front-lighting & an automatic emergency braking system. This luxurious car has a modern exterior styling with a suitable interior design. This SUV provides lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and automated high-beam headlamps. It comes in a 1.4-litre turbocharged engine with either a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic that makes 147 horsepower.

golf sportwagen best cars to sleep in

The 2019 model Golf SportWagen has plenty of seating, has additional cargo space & is comfortable to drive. The Golf SportWagen has a sunroof for nighttime ventilation and high fuel efficiency to minimize prices. These performance-oriented qualities make it the best car to sleep in for long driving.

6. 2024 Ford Flex

Most people want a comfortable sleeping environment on a long road trip. The 2024 Ford Flex model is one of the perfect cars to sleep in for camping by providing so much space during your trip. If you fold the second or third sheet, you get 43.2 cubic feet and 83.2 cubic feet of space.

ford flex best cars to sleep in

The base of this SUV starts at just around $31,000 with a capability 3.5-liter V6 strong base turbo engine with 254 lb. -ft. of torque. Its extra features are roomy, comfortable seating, multiple hold pockets, and up to 10 cup & bottle holders.

7. 2024 Honda CR-V

Sleeping in your vehicle can often be the most suitable and affordable way of spending the night. The 2022 Honda CR-V is among the class leaders on the list of excellent cars to sleep in a comfortable drive. It offers a relaxing ride, good gas mileage, and energetic acceleration.

honda cr-v best cars to sleep in

This luxurious SUV is available with an Upscale interior, 40 cubic feet of storage space & excellent cargo space. Both rows of seats are ample, roomy, and comfortable. You can fold the rear seats flat, which gives you more room for sleeping.

8. 2024 Chevrolet Suburban

The 2024 Chevrolet suburban new model has plenty of space with comfort. The main qualities of this modern SUV are Automatic high beams, front parking sensors, and lane-keeping assistance. This vehicle provides an engine of 420-hp V-8 and torque-rich diesel six-cylinder.

suburban best cars to sleep in

It has three rows, delivering adequate seating for up to eight people, and offers an impressive 121.7 cubic feet of cargo space. It provides a good sleeping environment without any cramps. It gives 23 MPG on the road, and fuel is operating to add up fast. So the Chevrolet suburban is an ideal choice for the best car to sleep in at night.

9. 2024 Toyota Rav4

If Toyota’s Rav4 were to face a direct competitor, the Honda CR-V would likely be its counterpart. Offered in both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive models, the 2024 RAV4 is equipped with a 4-cylinder engine that delivers impressive fuel efficiency.

Additionally, there is a Hybrid model available, showcasing Toyota’s commitment to eco-friendly options. Given its longstanding reliability, newer models have undergone refinements to ensure an excellent ride quality.

For those with an adventurous spirit, the Adventure model stands out as the highest trim level for the Rav4. While it comes with a higher price tag, it includes standard all-wheel drive and extra enhancements, making it well-suited for outdoor activities and a strong contender for the title of the best car for camping.

Featuring a built-in roof rack, 120V plugs, and a TRD-tuned suspension, this model is ready for off-road escapades. Beyond its off-road capabilities, the Rav4 also proves to be a practical choice for camping and sleeping on the go. Folding down the seats creates a generous length of 74 inches, with a minimum width of 44 inches, providing ample space for a comfortable sleeping setup.

The open and adaptable interior makes it easy to add a mattress for a more restful experience. The inclusion of a 120V outlet in the rear, particularly in the new Adventure model, adds convenience for charging devices or powering essential appliances during your camping adventures.

FAQ About Best Car To Sleep In

As per both choices a tent is colder to sleep in at night than a car. The car is sealed and any heat that may enter during the day will be contained, soaked, and further trapped within the car. When you get into your car at night, you will still be warmer in your car than in a tent, as a tent is not sealed to the exact tier.

You might be tempted to roll the windows all the way up. But this is not a great option because the disparity in temperature between your body and the atmosphere in the vehicle will finally deliver moisture that will complicate your attempts to stay warm.

Conclusion

This blog explains everything about the best cars to sleep in for your long road trip and camping. These luxurious cars are perfect for your long road trip during any weather condition. Choosing an excellent car only depends on your budget, price range, style, cargo space, and many more.

David Smith
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David Smith

David Smith is Chicago based automotive content writer. He has been working in the auto industry for a long time. And shares his thoughts on automobiles, repair and maintenance, top selling cars on Auto Seeks. David Smith likes to ride new vehicles so that he can present a well informative information to our readers. Beyond cars and vehicle review he also enjoys playing baseball along with teengers.

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