Whether you want to take a quick power nap before another stint on the motorway or you want to save some money and avoid a hotel stay, sleeping in your car is certainly an option to consider.
Sleeping in a small car such as a hatchback to a luxury SUV is easily possible and you have the option of sleeping in the front or backseat. If possible, sleeping in the backseat is often the best place to sleep in your car but if you can adjust your front seats, you may be able to find a position that’s comfortable enough to rest.
Can You Legally Sleep In Your Car?
If you are tired and need to rest, you can legally sleep in your car but you can’t be drunk or intoxicated in any way. You also must be safely parked so that it’s not a hazard to other road users or violate any parking restrictions.
In the UK, there are no laws that state that you can’t sleep in your car and it’s totally legal to do so.
Where Can You Sleep Legally In Your Car?
If you find yourself in need of a safe and legal place to sleep in your car, multiple options are available:
1. Motorway Services
Our top recommendation for legally sleeping in your car is to use a motorway service station. Not only is it a safe and legal place to stay but there is also plenty of services such as food and drink, toilets and even showers in certain service stations. Therefore, if you do intend to have a sleep, planning a stop at a top-rated service station it’s advised.
It’s important to note that some service stations limit the time you can stay parked and this is usually between 2 to 3 hours. Therefore, if you do intend to stay longer, you may need to pay upfront (usually via a smartphone application) or alternatively you can set an alarm so that you wake up before you reach the maximum time limit.
2. Residential Areas
Another safe and legal place to sleep in your car is residential areas, which often benefit from being quieter than public car parks and have no time limit restrictions. However, you will need to be aware of attention from residents nearby that may be wondering why you are sleeping in your car. You will also want to ensure that you are not blocking any driveways or parked on double yellow lines as this will result in a parking fine if a parking warden were to pass your car.
3. Car Parks
Similar to motorway services, car parks at retail units may be another legal place to consider. Most are covered by CCTV and if you do your research beforehand, you may be able to find a car park without a time limit.
When Can You Not Sleep In Your Car?
Whilst sleeping in your car is generally allowed, certain situations may prohibit you from doing so such as:
1. Parking Restrictions
Certain areas prohibit overnight parking or sleeping inside your car to prevent the misuse of public spaces. For example, near tourist locations or beauty spots, you’ll often see signs that state these parking restrictions.
2. Private Property Without Permission
Sleeping in your car on private property without the owner’s consent is considered trespassing and can lead to legal consequences. Therefore, you should always ask for permission before you begin shutting your eyes!
3. Blocking Traffic or Emergency Access
It is illegal and dangerous to park your car in a way that obstructs traffic flow or emergency access routes. Therefore, you should always ensure you park your car in a safe and legal manner to avoid any issues.
Can You Sleep In Your Car When Drunk?
Although you can sleep in your car legally, if you are drunk (or intoxicated in any way), it’s illegal. Regardless of whether the keys are out of the ignition or if you are in the backseat, it’s illegal and you’ll face a fine and points on your license.
Therefore, if you are sleeping in your car when drunk, you run the risk of a fine of up to £2,500, 3 months imprisonment and a driving ban. It’s not worth it whatsoever and you can stay in the nicest hotel in the UK for cheaper than the fine!
How To Get A Good Night’s Sleep In Your Car
Whether you need to sleep in a small car, front seat, back seat or even in the boot, there are several ways you can improve the quality of your sleep such as:
- Finding a level surface to park your car
- Use blankets or even baby sunshades to block out any light
- Open a window very slightly to avoid stuffiness inside the car
- Ensure the doors are locked (keep your keys with you in case the alarm goes off)
- Bring a pillow and blankets (or use spare clothes as an alternative)
- Keep stocked up with water and snacks
How Can You Avoid Being Tired?
If you find yourself needing to sleep in your car while on a long journey, it’s important to prioritize your rest and minimize fatigue. Below are some tips to help you avoid tiredness behind the wheel:
- Plan your trip to have multiple stops (i.e. stop every 2 hours of driving)
- Stay hydrated throughout your journey (this will also encourage you to stop for the toilet more regularly too)
- Consume caffeine in the form of a coffee or energy drink to boost your alertness
- Avoid large meals before a long journey
- Ensure you have a good night’s sleep before the big drive
If you find yourself becoming tired or drowsy behind the wheel, you should always take a break and avoid carrying on. Motorway services are a great place to stop as they allow you to stretch your legs, purchase food and drink, use the toilet and even take a power nap in the car park if needs be.
It’s important to note that if you suffer from excessive sleepiness, you should inform the DVLA and avoid driving until your symptoms are under control. Failing to tell the DVLA about a medical condition such as this can result in a £1,000 fine.
Conclusion
Although sleeping in your car is legal, there are circumstances mentioned above that can make it illegal to do so. Our top recommendation of sleeping in motorway services is advised but there are other safe locations too.
If you require further information regarding sleeping in your car, feel free to get in touch and we will try to provide our assistance where applicable.
