With summer just around the corner, opportunities for road trips abound, and if you have as much wanderlust as we do, road trips can turn into their own form of camping. Sleeping in your car doesn't have to mean restless sleep and a crick in your neck. No matter when you get the urge to hit the open road (and how much prep time that leaves you), here are some suggestions to make sure nothing holds you back on your adventures.
Car HammockCar Hammock
With the Car Hammock, you can easily have a comfortable sleeping spot that takes full advantage of your car's interior in under five minutes, without having to worry about bugs or a tent.
Hammaka Hanging ChairHammaka Hanging Chair
This seating solution combines the relaxing sway of a hammock with the convenience of a camp chair. It is easily suspended from the hitch of your vehicle (or the specialized stand pictured here, sold separately).
Helinox Table OneHelinox Table One
Move over, picnic tables. The Helinox camp table folds down to the size of its easily handheld case, which is smaller than a sleeping bag. So sitting down to a proper meal isn't out of the question.
SunVolt ChargerSunVolt Charger
This solar-powered charging solution by Gomadic juices up electronics in no time, without draining a car's battery. It's been measured at over 90 percent efficiency, and you can power two devices at the same time. Because adventures are always more fun with a partner.
BioLite CampStove 2BioLite CampStove 2
Talk about efficiency: The BioLite CampStove 2 burns wood to create a smokeless fire for cooking, and it converts the excess heat into electricity to charge electronics via USB. Two birds, one stone. (Safety note: Smokeless doesn't mean car-safe. Please don't light fires in your vehicle.)
Kukenam SKYKukenam SKY
Who says you have to sleep in your car when you can sleep on it? The Kukenam SKY by Tepui Tents offers a premium sleeping setup on the roof of your vehicle, complete with a ladder for easy access. The foam floor means you won't feel the roof rack it attaches to.
HabitentHabitent
If heights aren't your thing and you have a hatchback, there are tents which utilize the raised hatch of your car. Some are even made for specific models, like the Habitent for the Toyota Prius and Honda Insight.
Bear Vault BV500 CanisterBeware of bears
Be sure not to leave food in your car if you're parked in an area where bears have been spotted. The BearVault BV500 Canister means bears won't be tempted to crash your dinner party, and the transparent casing means you won't have a hard time finding what you need to make your meal. Still, it is not advised you keep this in your car either. Put some reflective tape on it and store it in a shaded spot at least 100 yards downwind.
PLAN YOUR PARKING
You can't just set up camp anywhere, so it's best to have a general plan, even if you haven't completely mapped out your route. Here are a few parking options to consider. Campgrounds: They're dark and quiet, but bugs will abound, so you might not be able to crack the windows to enjoy the privacy without letting in critters. Parking lots: Big box stores like Wal-Mart - which actually welcomes overnight parkers - have security that patrols their parking lots, making them an ideal place to stay the night. The lack of trees could make it a bit hot, though, and not all stores, even Wal-Marts, have the same rules, so be sure to check. Rest stops: The bonuses are clear - restrooms, maps, perhaps even showers - but not all are accommodating, so be sure to know the rules of the state you're in as well as those of the particular rest area. A safer bet is truck stops, though it's always advisable to check with the clerk on duty, who may even help keep an eye out for you if you ask nicely.