Services
PriceProtect™
DriveShield™
GarageGuard™
Car Insurance
Compare Car Insurance with Jerry
Jerry’s Expert Advice
Car Insurance Estimates
Home & Renters Insurance
Renters Insurance
Loans
Car Loan
Compare Car Loans with Jerry
Jerry's Expert Advice
Car Loan Guides
Repairs
Car Repair Estimates
Repair Estimates for Popular Services
Advice
Read Car Content
Browse Jerry Car Advice
Check Out Expert Car QnA
Learn About How We Create Content
Jerry Data & Research
I’m going on a three-month road trip across the U.S., and I’m pretty excited about it. After doing the math, I figured I could cut down on costs if I slept in my car part of the time. I’m just not sure where I can legally do so. Where can I sleep without getting hassled by Johnny Law or business owners?
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
However, every state has different laws regarding sleeping in your car, specifically when and where you can sleep in your car. For example:
State-by-state: 14 states don’t let you sleep overnight in a rest area.
Your best option: Some states have designated overnight parking areas.
An illegal but popular option: Walmart is a famous spot for sleeping in your car. However, it’s technically illegal, as it’s private property (although you’re unlikely to be hassled by employees or management).
City limitations: Certain cities, counties, and municipalities may ban sleeping in your car within their boundaries. Key West is a notable inclusion on this list.
Parking limitations: Some states have time limits for how long you can park at a rest stop, ranging from three to 24 hours.
Do your research: Because of the variance of laws, conducting some research on sleeping in your car while you’re planning could save you time, money, and a headache.
Pro tip: Since you’re embarking on a lengthy road trip, do yourself a favor and
pack an emergency kit
. As a fail-safe for worst-case scenarios, you can add roadside assistance or towing and labor coverage to your car insurance policy.
View full answer
“My experience with Jerry has been absolutely incredible. It took my car insurance from about $400/month to about $80. The entire experience is seamless.”
- Gregory R.
WHY YOU CAN TRUST JERRY
Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.
Join 4M+ members in lowering their car insurance
Browse More Content
Car Repair Resources
Insurance in Your State
What Others Are Asking
Read Advice From Car Experts At Jerry
Browse By Topics
No long forms
No spam or unwanted phone calls
Quotes from top insurance companies
