Getting a good night’s sleep is a top priority for many reasons, but the biggest is a tired driver is an unsafe driver.
Choosing the Right Sleeping Setup
Sleeping Pads vs. Mattresses
● Foam Pads → Affordable, durable, but bulkier. These tend to be thinner than inflatable pads so they may not be as comfortable as other set ups but they are a great option if you want something ultra lightweight you can use in your car and on a backpacking trip.
● Inflatable Pads → More comfortable, easier to pack. These are my favorite because they pack up to the size of a water bottle and you don't need anything other than a strong set of lungs or bag to inflate them. They are more expensive though and if you have animals their nails can puncture the pad.
● Air Mattresses → Great for comfort but take up space. You will need some sort of energy source to inflate these so they are not ideal for back country/wild camping unless you have a portable way to inflate them. I do love air mattresses when I'm camping in a tent though!
● Memory Foam Mattress Toppers → A home-like feel, but may not fit all setups. This was my orginal set up and it works like a charm. I used to take my queen size memory foam mattress topper from my bed at home and fold it in half for the car. It kept me warm and was incredibly comfortable. It does take up a considerable amount of space though.
What is R-Value & Why Does It Matter for Sleeping Pads?
R-Value measures a sleeping pad’s ability to insulate you from the cold ground. The higher the R-value, the better it prevents heat loss, keeping you warm in colder conditions.
R-Value Guide for Sleeping Pads:
1 – 2.4 → Minimal insulation (best for warm summer nights).
2.5 – 3.9 → Good for three-season camping (mild spring, summer, and fall temps).
4 – 5.9 → Well-insulated, great for cold weather and mild winter camping.
6+ → High insulation, best for winter camping or extreme cold.
How to Choose:
If you mostly camp in summer, a low R-value (1–3) is fine.
For year-round camping, aim for 4 or higher.
In cold conditions, pair an insulated pad (R-4+) with a foam pad for extra warmth.
Essential Sleep Gear Checklist
Check out my ultimate sleep gear guide for my favorites! →
□ Sleeping Bag or Quilt (rated for the lowest temperature you’ll encounter)
□ Pillow(s) (bring your own for comfort or use inflatable travel pillows)
□ Blankets (for layering!)
□ Window Covers (for privacy & temperature control)
□ Earplugs & Eye Mask (for better sleep in public places)
□ Rechargeable Fan or Ventilation Setup (for summer camping)
□ Hand Warmers or Heated Blanket (for winter trips)
Seasonal Adjustments: Staying Warm vs Staying Cool
Sleeping Warm in Cold Weather
● Use a sleeping bag liner for added warmth, alterternatively something as simple as a throw blanket over a sleeping bag will work as well. Layers! Layers! Layers!
● Layer the floor with foam, blankets, or reflectix to prevent heat loss. This is where those r-ratings in your sleeping pads come into play.
● Crack a window slightly to prevent condensation buildup. Seems counter productive but that condensation can make for a very cold car.
● If you are staying at a campsite with electricity you can run an extention chord into your car for a heating blanket or heating pad.
● You can boil water for a hot water bottle, or fill a nalgene with hot water to keep in your sleeping bag. Be careful not to burning yourself!
● Dress warm for sleep! I love sleeping in one of those big Comfy hoodie blankets because I don't have to take it off when I wake up and I keep that heat as I get ready for the day.
● Avoid idling your car first thing in the morning, as it can trap carbon monoxide if your exhaust is blocked by snow or debris. Modern engines warm up faster while driving, so instead of wasting fuel, start your car and get moving to heat it efficiently. If you must idle, always ensure proper ventilation to stay safe.
Insulation & Warmth Considerations
● Use a battery-operated fan and position it for airflow. Keep an eye out at places like Target at the beginning of the summer, they usually have these in the dollar section for about $5. Alternatively, if you are staying at a campground with electricity you can use an extention chord to plug in a fan.
● Park in shaded areas or use a reflective sunshade. You can get sunshades for under $10 from Ross and TJ Maxx. I bought 4-5 of them and used a box cutter to fit them perfectly to each window in my car. I store these in my trunk so they're readily available.
● Freeze a water bottle and place it near your feet for a cooling effect. If you can't freeze a water bottle then you can fill one with ice from a gas station for the same effect. Keep in mind the condensation will make your blankets wet so use this more for last resort.
● If you want to sleep with the windows down but avoid bugs getting in you can find mesh window covers to place over your door. I have never used these so I do not know how effective they are, if you try it let me know how it goes!