Monday night I slept in my car for the first time. It didn't make economical sense to stay in a hotel, plus I'm stubborn. Originally I had a trip planned which included an overnight stay in Birmingham with my mom. We've never been on the best of terms and because I do not wish to detail the story here, I will just say that my plans to spend the night at her house fell through a few days ago.
When my plans changed I did look at hotel rooms, but the least expensive rooms were $50 per night. I also looked at redeeming loyalty points but even that did not appeal to me. Why redeem 25,000 points for a place to lay my head for a few hours when I could save them for a frugal vacation? Then I started thinking,
What's the worst that could happen if I slept in my car?
I did some online research - where to park my car, how to make the car more comfortable, the risks involved. What I found was that truck stops and Wal-Mart parking lots were overwhelmingly favored by folks who do this thing regularly. Based on my research I decided to fold down the back seat so that I would mostly be sleeping in the trunk of the car. I just couldn't imagine sleeping in the front seat or snuggled up in the backseat. I drive a Toyota Corolla; it's too small for that.
I shopped five gas stations Monday night on my way from the Atlanta conference to Birmingham. At the last station there was both a McDonald's and a Wal-Mart in the same parking lot. This was my spot. I hung out in McDonald's while I entered my shops and surfed the Internet, then I pulled into the Wal-Mart lot behind the restaurant. Logistics were straightforward: I brought two comforters, three pillows and a sheet. I folded down the backseat, draped the sheet above stretching across the folded down area to conceal myself from prying eyes and shield some of the lights, and made myself a bed.
It wasn't the best night's sleep I ever got, but I didn't expect it to be. Fortunately the weather was perfect. I prefer cooler weather when sleeping and it was about 65 degrees when I fell asleep. But still, I saved $50 or more and didn't sacrifice much if anything. This wasn't such a bad experience. I had a day of mystery shopping to do when I woke up, so I freshened up in the McDonald's bathroom and began the day.
Sleeping in my car turned out to be a frugal adventure, and I imagine I will do it again if the circumstances are right. I wouldn't recommend it if you have to be dressed up the next day or in a very public setting because taking a bird bath at McDonald's won't cut it, at least for me, and this wasn't the most comfortable sleep I've had. It's probably something that takes a little getting used to. For example, I woke up several times and I think it was more out of anxiety than actual noises around me.
.
I've slept in my SUV. A little bit more room than your Toyota. It was fine until I woke up in the morning and needed a bathroom. The closest c store didn't have one. I was scrambling to find one. I eventually did. If I ever do this more often, I would get a membership to Anytime Fitness. With 1700 locations, most with private bathroom/showers I'd always be close to one. Plus, they are open 24/7.
ReplyDeletePat,
DeleteFortunately I was at a 24 hour Wal-Mart so the bathroom issue didn't present itself. I agree that if I were regularly sleeping in my car it would make sense to join a gym that offered showers.
We haven't slept in the car - but when we've had to stay overnight on a long driving trip - we've had good luck with those gas station coupon books. I don't know what the range is now, but I am thinking they ran about $19.99 - $99.99 per night. And don't know if Birmingham has any Youth Hostels - but we've stayed in a few of those too - and were surprised - in a good way.
ReplyDeleteI'm pretty sure Birmingham doesn't have any hostels, but since I am from there I could probably just swallow my pride and crash at a friend's house. Normally I can stay with my mom but she's been working through some issues. I will definitely keep that idea in mind though if I am in other cities and need a cheap place to crash.
DeleteIt sounds like the car sleeping experience worked out for you. I hand an older Corolla that I slept in when hiking. The back seat didn't fold down though, I had to remove it completely. I couldn't sleep in my Camry because the back seat folded down, but not flat.
ReplyDeleteNow that you know you can sleep in your car, you have a good option to save money when needed.
The Corolla folds down but not completely flat, so it was quite tight, especially since I need to lose some weight in the midsection. Knowing that I can do this puts a new perspective on the necessity for a hotel room if all I need to do is get some sleep.
DeleteYou could pick up some truck stop gas station shops that include purchasing a shower ticket. You don't *have* to shower according to the directions, but you can. Might be a good idea. Often bonused.
ReplyDeleteTrey,
DeleteThat's a good idea. I've done those shops before but not out of necessity and therefore didn't take advantage of the free shower. That would be a good idea and I could probably even sleep in my car in their parking lot the night before.
In my opinion sometime at many places It's not a good idea to sleep in a car. First time, I slept in my car after visited a lot of random places without any particular plan before 5 Years Ago in Houston, USA
ReplyDeletehttp://www.go4etutor.com/
Hey what a brilliant post I have come across and believe me I have been searching out for this similar kind of post for past a week and hardly came across this. Thank you very much and will look for more postings from you.
ReplyDeletehow is sleep apnea treated?
Awesome article, it was exceptionally helpful! I simply began in this and I'm becoming more acquainted with it better! Cheers, keep doing awesome! car detailing
ReplyDeleteI have read all the comments and suggestions posted by the visitors for this article are very fine,We will wait for your next article so only.Thanks! how to install winch on atv
ReplyDeleteI have read all the comments and suggestions posted by the visitors for this article are very fine,We will wait for your next article so only.Thanks! Cheap Tyres
ReplyDeleteThis particular is usually apparently essential and moreover outstanding truth along with for sure fair-minded and moreover admittedly useful My business is looking to find in advance designed for this specific useful stuffs… cash for junk cars
ReplyDeletePositive site, where did u come up with the information on this posting?I have read a few of the articles on your website now, and I really like your style. Thanks a million and please keep up the effective work. Cheap Tyres in Sydney
ReplyDeleteConsumers do that. Car insurance will only cover the residual value of a car in the event of an accident, paintless dent repair warranty not the full loan amount owed on a car. Pay $20,000 for a new car and wreck it in the first year, your auto insurance will cover only the residual value of that car.
ReplyDeleteWhen you have chosen the correct model or body style that is brilliant for you, you should begin gathering definite data about that particular trade-in vehicle utilizing its VIN. centralina aggiuntiva golf 5 2.0 tdi
ReplyDeleteReally I enjoy your site with effective and useful information. It is included very nice post with a lot of our resources.thanks for share. i enjoy this post. touch screen car stereo
ReplyDeleteReally I enjoy your site with effective and useful information. It is included very nice post with a lot of our resources.thanks for share. i enjoy this post. Sports Car Rentals Columbus
ReplyDeleteReally I enjoy your site with effective and useful information. It is included very nice post with a lot of our resources.thanks for share. i enjoy this post. 花蓮租車
ReplyDeleteThere are likewise add-on accessories which are intended to upgrade the presentation of the vehicle. solenoid valve dealer Malaysia
ReplyDeleteIt is appropriate time to make a few plans for the long run and it's time to be happy. I've read this submit and if I may just I wish to counsel you some interesting issues or tips. Perhaps you could write next articles regarding this article. I want to read even more issues about it!
ReplyDeletecar removal ipswich
Great post. I used to be checking constantly this weblog and I am inspired! Extremely useful information specially the ultimate part :) I maintain such info much. I used to be seeking this particular information for a very lengthy time.
ReplyDeleteThank yyou and good luck.
cash for cars gold coast
Generally I don't learn post on blogs, but I would like to say that this write-up very pressured me to try and do it!
ReplyDeleteYour writing style has been surprised me. Thanks, very great post.
cash for cars brisbane
This was a really great contest and hopefully I can attend the next one. It was alot of fun and I really enjoyed myself.. engniek
ReplyDeleteThanks for a very interesting blog. What else may I get that kind of info written in such a perfect approach? I’ve a undertaking that I am simply now operating on, and I have been at the look out for such info. 花蓮租車
ReplyDeleteReally I enjoy your site with effective and useful information. It is included very nice post with a lot of our resources.thanks for share. i enjoy this post. car finance company
ReplyDeleteThis particular is usually apparently essential and moreover outstanding truth along with for sure fair-minded and moreover admittedly useful My business is looking to find in advance designed for this specific useful stuffs… best car lease deals
ReplyDeletei love reading this article so beautiful!!great job! vehicle leasing
ReplyDeletePositive site, where did u come up with the information on this posting?I have read a few of the articles on your website now, and I really like your style. Thanks a million and please keep up the effective work. generators
ReplyDeleteThe cruise control, with its distance presets to keep you from getting in any fender benders, is great for those long stretches of highway that many road tripsters encounter. replacement remote car keys
ReplyDeleteWow! Such an amazing and helpful post this is. I really really love it. It's so good and so awesome. I am just amazed. I hope that you continue to do your work like this in the future also Zanzibar car hire
ReplyDeleteI think that thanks for the valuabe information and insights you have so provided here. young person car insurance
ReplyDeleteGreat remarkable issues here. I’m very glad to look your article. Thanks a lot and I am having a look forward to touch you. Will you please drop me a mail?
ReplyDeletecash for cars brisbane
broken car removal
Utilize certifiable and quality parts while fixing anything with the goal that it would work more and you can keep away from the fixing. Peruse the manual before supplanting part in hardware. Best Bluetooth Car Kits
ReplyDeleteThe total yearly development pace of creation of the car business from the year 2000-2001 to 2005-2006 was 17 percent. The total yearly development pace of fares during the period 2000-01 to 2005-06 was 32.92 percent. Best Bluetooth Car Kits
ReplyDeleteThanks for providing recent updates regarding the concern, I look forward to read more. Zanzibar car hire
ReplyDeleteWonderful blog post. This is absolute magic from you! I have never seen a more wonderful post than this one. You've really made my day today with this. I hope you keep this up!
ReplyDeletecar removal hobart
First You got a great blog .I will be interested in more similar topics. i see you got really very useful topics, i will be always checking your blog thanks. Sakarya araç kiralama
ReplyDeleteI know this sounds a somewhat odd inquiry, yet hold on for me, ideally this article will show you exactly how significant the regularly disregarded part of rest is to your general preparing progress.
ReplyDeletebest comfortable earplugs for sleeping
A very awesome blog post. We are really grateful for your blog post. You will find a lot of approaches after visiting your post. AEM Wideband
ReplyDeleteThere is no doubt that web page audio significantly increases results. In fact, not using audio is a big mistake. It will boost your opt-in rate. It boosts sales, too. Why does it work? Best Car Speakers
ReplyDeleteWithout fail, your writing style is top professional; even your website also looks amazing thank you for posting. car seat covers
ReplyDeleteAnother tip when you rent a car is to learn as much about the car hire company as you can. You want to identify their reputation and ensure the company you choose will provide you with the best service and support, offering you the best car hire experience that you will want to use time and time again in the future. araç kiralama
ReplyDeleteHi!!!
ReplyDeleteThis is Online Indus
We provide latest news from Pakistan Check out Sport News
Online Indus
I’m going to read this. I’ll be sure to come back. thanks for sharing. and also This article gives the light in which we can observe the reality. this is very nice one and gives indepth information. thanks for this nice article... bedliner
ReplyDeleteIf you have a car that is damaged beyond repair, have been resting and rusting in your backyard for many years, or simply you don’t want to go through the hassle in selling then Cash For Car is the right place.
ReplyDeleteGreat literally it's an amazing post I have ever seen please allow me to get your feed to keep up to date with your valuable quality posts. Visit us at Sydney Car Removal
ReplyDeleteHi there! Nice post! Please tell us when I will see a follow up! car covers
ReplyDeleteI have read all the comments and suggestions posted by the visitors for this article are very fine,We will wait for your next article so only.Thanks! autonomous semi truck
ReplyDeletevery good post, i certainly enjoy this fabulous website, go on it Toyota Prius 2016 Car Review
ReplyDeleteThe expense of compulsory protection changes from one organization to another and will rely upon the car class that is being leased too. best car shipping company
ReplyDeleteWe pay our customers instant cash up to $9,999 without any waiting time. It is our policy to not let customers wait for their money. We also provide free towing services, so customers save even more money when dealing with us. This strategy has been a great success with our customers in Queensland. Through this, we gained a lot of goodwill from our customers.
ReplyDeletecash for scrap cars ipswich
Speedy Cash for Cars is an attractive new option for car owners in Brisbane who want to sell salvaged vehicles or want to get rid of old scrap. We provide a one-stop solution to all your car removal troubles.
ReplyDeleteaccident car removal
With Aussie Bins Skip, you not only get a top-quality product; but also the best dumpster bin service Brisbane has to offer. With our strategically situated warehouses and a fleet of trucks, we can cater our customers honestly and sincerely.
ReplyDeleteskip bin hire brisbane
If you are planning to get rid of your old car for cash in Brisbane, you are at the right spot. We at Best Car Removal offer you a free pick up right at your doorstep, garage, parking lot, motorway, or other areas in Brisbane and surrounding suburbs.
ReplyDeletecash for cars brisbane
We Buy Vehicles provide customers a great opportunity to get rid of their old unwanted car fast. We help customers all over Sydney wide by selling their cars and giving cash in return. Our services include car wrecking, car removal, cash for cars, and eco-friendly recycling. To get details about us Click here.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteI would like to thank you for the efforts you've put in writing this website. I am hoping to see the same high-grade blog posts from you in the future as well. In fact, your creative writing abilities has motivated me to get my own website now ;).
ReplyDeleteYou have discussed an interesting topic that everybody should know. Very well explained with examples. I have found a similar website towing company service visit the site to know more about our services.
ReplyDeleteI review a lot of blog site messages, however I never ever listened to a subject like this. I Love this topic you made concerning the blogger's pail listing. Check our website for top cash for your old cars.
ReplyDeleteA commitment of appreciation is all together to share this data. I unfathomably like your blog a domain particularly. You have to a wonderful degree shared a constructive and fascinating on the web diary circle individuals.
ReplyDeletehttps://japaneseautospares.com.au/ offers top dollars for your unwanted vehicles.
This is truly a great read for me. I have bookmarked it and I am looking forward to reading new articles. Keep up the good work!. entertainment trucking companies
ReplyDeleteThanks a lot for sharing this with all of us you actually know what you are talking about! Bookmarked. Please also visit my website =). We could have a link exchange agreement between us!centralina aggiuntiva cosa serve
ReplyDeleteGreat post, you have pointed out some excellent points, I as well believe this is a very superb website. machine learning in fleet management
ReplyDeletewith stiff competition for your hard earned dollars often comes a better deal for the exotic car enthusiast. Rolls Royce Rental
ReplyDeleteEverybody knows from individual experience that when the sheets are falling off the bed, it tends to be a disturbance and more awful it's anything but an individual from one getting to another rest or from remaining in peaceful REM.
ReplyDeletesilk bed sheets
With less individuals leasing cars, the rental car organizations and other armada purchasers are not off-stacking however many more seasoned ones or gaining as numerous new vehicles, which adds to the spike in costs. in car accessories
ReplyDeleteThe author writes a nice blog. At Metro Car Removals, pay top cash for your scrap, used, old, and unwanted cars in Adelaide Wide. If you are looking for a hassle-free car for cash services and same-day free car removal, then you have come to the right place.
ReplyDeleteTwin, twin XL, twofold, sovereign or ruler sheets to fit the bed you have are additionally huge things that should be viewed as when purchasing bed sheets. queen silk sheet
ReplyDeleteThis is such a great resource that you are providing and you give it away for free. I love seeing blog that understand the value of providing a quality resource for free. in car accessories
ReplyDeleteAn interesting dialogue is price comment. I feel that it is best to write more on this matter, it may not be a taboo topic however usually individuals are not enough to talk on such topics. To the next. Cheers. Car Bluetooth
ReplyDeleteThere are various other compulsory charges that car rental administrators might add into the rental expense, show on-screen or show in the statement, or leave undisclosed until the client's appearance. Hummer Limousine Hire
ReplyDeletehttp://bestukbusiness.com DA 55
ReplyDeleteKeyword
bestukbusiness
Description
BESTUKBUSINESS is very interesting site you can see daily updates articles about all categories one more thing you can publish your article with do-follow links by yourself. for more info contact-us
URL
ReplyDeletehttps://gphints.com/ DA 604
Keyword
GPHINTS
Description
gphints is very interesting site you can see daily updates articles about all categories one more thing you can publish your article with do-follow links by yourself. for more info contact-us
URL
ReplyDeletehttps://mixinsider.com/ DA 59
Keyword
Mixinsider
Description
Mixinsider is very interesting site you can see daily updates articles about all categories one more thing you can publish your article with do-follow links by yourself. for more info contact-us
URL
ReplyDeletehttp://www.thetophints.com/ DA 59
Keyword
Thetophints
Description
thetophints is very interesting site you can see daily updates articles about all categories one more thing you can publish your article with do-follow links by yourself. for more info contact-us
http://www.myfrugalmiser.com/2012/09/my-experience-sleeping-in-my-car.html?showComment=1613045407754#c6186561705091194871
ReplyDeletehttp://www.tracktec.in/2014/04/nissan-has-invented-self-cleaning-hydrophobic-paint-car.html?showComment=1613045493358#c5327184938961216292
Foam memory beds furnish your body with all the right help to accomplish profound restPure Silk Bedding
ReplyDeleteWhile the causes are many, there are some sound judgment cures that can assist you with getting the great night's rest you need.100 silk bedding
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing this information. Car Wreckers Sydney offered cash for scrap cars up to With Sell Your Used Cars in Sydney wide. We accept all makes and models of any vehicle.
ReplyDeleteYour post was very nicely written. I’ll be back in the future for sure!
ReplyDeleteเว็บข่าวกีฬา
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteI feel a lot more people need to read this, very good info!
ReplyDeleteเว็บข่าวกีฬา
Yes, great US Military force. Also, in his post you have given a chance to listen about US Military. I really appreciate your work. Thanks for sharing it. www.annaleewellbeing.com
ReplyDeleteFinding the best car removals & wreckers should not be a challenge too, because I have good news for you. Car Removals Perth is the best for you! We also remove trucks, 4×4, van, SUV, commercial vehicle, ute, motorcycle, etc. You name it, running or not; we will come to your location and remove it for free. You can contact Scrap Car Removals Perth for the best car removal service on 0417950976 or send an online inquiry through their website.
ReplyDeleteHey, great blog, but I don’t understand how to add your site in my reader. Can you Help me please?
ReplyDeletesitus judi slot online
Most of the time I don’t make comments on websites, but I'd like to say that this article really forced me to do so. Really nice post! TS911
ReplyDeleteYou should do take some pain to do research on the internet, taking advice from friends and relatives while planning to fit your car with new accessories. jeep grilles
ReplyDeleteInternet games like car games are unwinding and really captivating. Guardians observe these an alleviation since youngsters sit in a spot, concentrate, master abilities like mental arranging choosing strategies; minecraft servers
ReplyDeleteIt is a great website.. The Design looks very good.. Keep working like that!. Karachi classified ads
ReplyDeleteBook the ultimate Italian sports car with mph club, Lamborghini Rentals Near Me can find exotic cars to rent. Lamborghini Rentals Near Me
ReplyDeleteDo guarantee that the store is determined in the excursion financial plan as a startling hold of two or three thousand dollars on a Mastercard could somehow or another seriously cut into get-away spending.
ReplyDeleteContinued
Moreover, cutting edge advances and eco-accommodating models are tempting clients and quickly moving their buying practices. A purchasers are prepared to go overboard more on high-trim-level vehicles, including premium-grade gets done, hello tech highlights, and execution updates, adding to the upgraded valuing. www.premieroilsales.com
ReplyDeleteCash For Scrap Cars Buyer offers free car removal for all unwanted vehicles. We buy used, damaged, accident, junk and scrap vehicles at top dollar based on market value, and frequently go from giving a quote, to handing you a cash payment, in just a few hours. You can have unwanted cars off your property, and cash in hand, today!
ReplyDeletedaftar sekarang juga di situs slot online terbaik no 1
ReplyDeleteI admire this article for the well-researched content and excellent wording. I got so involved in this material that I couldn’t stop reading. I am impressed with your work and skill. Thank you so much. car rental prices
ReplyDeleteSome people argue that the cost of maintaining a car is expensive. After all you have to change the oil, change the oil filter and things like that. collision repair phoenix
ReplyDeleteDuring this post, you have shared fantastic content. This article provided me with some useful knowledge. Thank you for sharing that. Keep up the good work. appraise my car
ReplyDeleteThis is very significant, and yet necessary towards just click this unique backlink: Lincoln Repair Near me
ReplyDeleteHello, what a splendid post I have gone over, and accept me I have been looking for this comparative sort of post for as far back as a week and barely ran over this. Many thanks and will search for additional postings from you.Digital Marketing Agency in Pakistan
ReplyDeleteThis article is incredibly helpful and engaging. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it and want to express my gratitude for the effort put into creating such an awesome piece. Read this article Bad Idea to Keep Driving a Damaged Car. Thank you!
ReplyDeleteRoll-off shipping is a cost-effective and safe method for shipping less expensive or older cars. Exotic Car Transport
ReplyDeleteCustomer Reviews: Our track record speaks for itself; read our glowing customer reviews that highlight our dedication to quality and customer satisfaction. Bridgestone Tires
ReplyDeleteHire or Rent Moving Equipment: If you're moving on your own, consider renting items like a dolly, hand truck, or moving straps to make the process more efficient, and assess whether you need any special equipment for auto or luxury car transportation. Moving Company Costs in Texas
ReplyDeleteDiscover the ultimate relaxation experience with "Discover Dubai’s Best Aromatherapy Massage for Stress Relief and Relaxation," This blog dives into how aromatherapy massages combine soothing techniques with therapeutic essential oils to melt away stress and rejuvenate the mind and body. Perfect for those seeking a tranquil escape in Dubai, it highlights top spas, the benefits of aromatherapy, and tips for enhancing your massage experience. Whether you're a resident or a visitor, this guide is your key to unwinding and embracing pure serenity in the heart of Dubai.
ReplyDelete