In most circles, living in your car is frowned upon but amongst surfers, climbers, backpackers, and other dirt bags, this simple existence can mean freedom. There’s nothing better than having all the comforts of home (or at least some of them) combined with the mobility of your car. The beauty of car camping is how accessible it is to everyone. With just a few bucks, your mom’s old station wagon, and disregard for better judgment, you can swing an extended surf trip without breaking the bank. Other than disappointing your parents and depreciating the value of your car, there are things you should come to expect and to avoid when living out of your car. Follow these tips and you’ll find you don’t have to be as committed as Doc or as sponsored as Dane to follow the swell and accumulate adventures.

1. Be inconspicuous.

This is particularly relevant while in the front country. Being woken up while sleeping in your car is terrifying, especially if it’s the police. And there’s nothing like someone checking to see if you’re dead at 4am when you’re just trying to get some shut eye. When choosing a place to park for the night, be inconspicuous. Don’t draw attention to yourself by leaving lights on, playing music, or moving around too much. Just find a spot, park, and go to sleep. A few things to avoid include: Your car to get broken into, parking illegally, and being seen in your car (especially by the police, because it is illegal in certain uptight jurisdictions). The best advice is to hide in plain sight. Find a safe neighborhood, big parking lot, or a well-lit street with other cars parked so you can blend right in.

2.Window shades > Curtains.

This goes along with being inconspicuous. Curtains are a good indicator that someone is in the car. Sunshields are cheap, fold down to fit anywhere, and come in different shapes to fit every window in your car. Good window shades will not only provide privacy, but will also help keep the interior of your car cool and dark.


3. Don’t skimp on the bed situation.

Having a comfortable bed is the most important element of car camping. You might have to get creative with this if you’re not in a van or large car. If your passenger seat folds down flat and flush with the back seat, you have it made. If not, you may consider folding the backseat forward to utilize the trunk as a sleeping area. Remember, not all cars are created equal for car camping. Don’t be afraid to take seats out or put a cot over uneven surfaces. Once you have a comfortable bed take pleasure in maintaining it as hallowed ground. Keep it clean, dry, and cozy.

4. Hygiene.

You’re gross. Stop that. Deal with it accordingly. (Baby wipes do wonders)

5. Velcro.

Any craft store should be stocked with Velcro strips. Figure out where you want your stuff, then Velcro that stuff down. This is really useful with gear you use daily. No more digging around for your toothbrush or trying to find where you put your keys. Bank deposit bags with Velcro attached to them work really well for easy storage of those easy to lose things. Pro tip: If you watch movies on a tablet or your cellphone, Velcro it to the roof above your bed so you can watch hands free. It’s the little things, right?

6. Roof Racks.

If space efficiency is an issue, roof racks with a locking mechanism make the world of a difference. You don’t want anything on your roof that looks like it’s worth stealing, so the ability to lock is more than necessary.

7. Get furniture.

Furniture, as it pertains to cars, is subjective. Its purpose is to provide comfort and organization. A good starter pack includes a foam mattress topper (we got ours from CosySleep and love the quality), a large container for storage, and a few smaller Tupperware style containers for various uses. It’s important to compartmentalize everything. Melted wax can ruin your day, along with anything it touches. You don’t want your wet wetsuit mixed in with your clean socks touching your foodstuff. Don’t be afraid to build a custom cot, cabinets, or storage devices for your car. Cabinets can maximize storage opportunities and give you quicker access to gear. It’s important to make sure whatever you build in your car can be taken out without having to disassemble it. Consider that what ever you put in your car will still be in your car if you get in a wreck. Make sure everything is securely fashioned down and not a danger to you or your passengers.


8.Stop making excuses.

There will always be reasons you shouldn’t go on adventures. Ignore them. Get out of your comfort zone and you’ll find better, less crowded waves. Make your choice, adventurous stranger.

And before anyone says anything about living in a van down by the river… let me beat you to it: