On sleeping in your car

A few nights ago, I slept next to the beach on the Oregon coast. I was in my car. I had parked in a Best Western parking lot with the windows cracked so I could hear the waves all night long. It was as nice as nice can be.

I would have camped, but the campgrounds I came across were full and as far as I could tell, the parking lot was closer to the beach and quieter – In my car, I heard no sounds of middle-aged men screaming at the sky, throwing their beer cans into the fire. Plus, with all the ocean wind and fog, sleeping by the beach is a little more comfortable in a car than a flimsy, whistling tent. I would also argue that sleeping in your car is way more hygienic than sleeping in any hotel room. Sure, it’s illegal, but after years of car-sleeping I remain pretty unconvinced that my 8 hour usage of a parking spot has caused much harm in the world.

I always survey the town, find the biggest hotel with the biggest lot, preferably with a couple of nice dark nooks, wait until after dusk and then park. My back seats fold down to reveal a small bed. I lay some blankets and pillows down and keep a flashlight nearby. If I’m in a conspicuous spot, I might drape a blanket over the seats to make a fort for hiding. But as far as I know, the hiding has always been more based in paranoia than real danger, since noone has ever “caught” me. I’ll usually wake up early, when the sun comes out, and drive away before anyone seems to care. It’s fun, easy, clean, fast, and free. Sleeping in your car is good for you! Goodbye.