17 Best Cars You Can Live In (Living & Sleeping Space)

Keep on road trips?

Let’s dive into some top pics for cars you can live in for a while – as you venture off into the wild.

Time to go!

Top Picks for Best Cars to Live In

In this section, we will examine some of the best cars to live in across various categories such as minivans and large SUVs, station wagons and crossovers, and sedans and hatchbacks.

Minivans and Large SUVs

Minivans and large SUVs offer optimal space and comfort when it comes to living on the go. A few top picks for this category include:

Toyota Sienna:

The Toyota Sienna is 16′ 8″ long and 6.5′ wide, making it quite spacious for living purposes. It is known for its reliability and safety, with some Siennas lasting over 300,000 miles.

Ford Transit Connect:

The Ford Transit Connect is 14′ 5″ long and 7′ wide, offering versatile living space. With ample storage and a comfortable interior, it is a popular choice for those seeking a live-in vehicle.

Ram Promaster City:

The Ram Promaster City is 15′ 5″ long and 6′ wide, with plenty of room for daily living. Its practical design and customizable features make it a great option for a home on wheels.

Station Wagons and Crossovers

For those seeking a smaller, more fuel-efficient option for living on the go, station wagons and crossovers can be suitable choices.

Top picks in this category are:

Subaru Outback:

In fact, when I took this photo I could see this exact model has been used for living for a few days. I could see you can sleep in it and there’s space enough to lay down when the seats are folded down.

The Subaru Outback offers ample space for sleeping and storage while still maintaining the comfort and drivability of a sedan. Its all-wheel-drive capabilities provide added security in various driving conditions.

Honda CR-V:

The Honda CR-V provides a balance between space and fuel efficiency, with a roomy interior perfect for city living. Its reliability and low maintenance needs make it an attractive option for long-term life on the road.

Sedans and Smaller Hatchbacks

Sedans and hatchbacks may be smaller living options, but they offer great fuel economy and can be easier to navigate in urban environments.

Some top choices in this category are:

Toyota Prius:

The Toyota Prius is a top pick for a small car to live in, with an impressive fuel economy and a comfortable interior. Despite its compact size, it offers enough sleeping space and storage for the essentials.

You’ll have to look elsewhere, though, if you’re a tall person.

Jeep Cherokee:

The Jeep Cherokee is a unique option, thanks to its ability to go off-road. Its versatile interior, rugged capabilities, and reasonable fuel efficiency make it an appealing choice for adventurous urban dwellers.

When choosing the right car to live in, it’s essential to consider factors such as space, fuel efficiency, reliability, and overall comfort.

These top picks offer various opportunities to find the perfect live-in vehicle for your unique lifestyle.

Other suitable models for sleeping

Here are 10 additional car models from different types that are suitable for sleeping on a road trip:

1. Volkswagen California (Campervan)
2. Ford Transit (Van Conversion)
3. Subaru Forester (SUV)
4. Honda Fit (Hatchback)
5. Chevrolet Equinox (Crossover)
6. Mercedes-Benz Sprinter (Van Conversion)
7. GMC Terrain (SUV)
8. Volvo XC90 (SUV)
9. Nissan NV200 (Compact Cargo Van)
10. Hyundai Santa Fe (SUV)

These vehicles offer various levels of comfort, space, and versatility for sleeping during a road trip. Please note that while these cars provide potential sleeping options, modifications or additions may be necessary to optimize the sleeping arrangement for extended stays.

Key Factors to Consider

When choosing a car to live in, there are several important factors to consider.

First and foremost, choose a car suitable for sleeping.

In this section, we discuss four essential aspects:

• fuel efficiency,
• insurance and maintenance,
• safety features,
• and privacy.

Fuel Efficiency

Fuel efficiency is crucial when living in a car, as it can greatly impact overall expenses. The Toyota Prius is known for its excellent fuel economy, making it an attractive option for a small car to live in.

Some other fuel-efficient options include:

• Hatchbacks: These mid-sized cars offer excellent fuel economy and provide a comfortable living space.
• Minivans: Despite their larger size, many minivans offer surprisingly good fuel efficiency, making them appealing for families.

Insurance and Maintenance

Living in a car means dealing with insurance and maintenance costs.

When comparing insurance premiums, keep in mind that factors like the make and model of the vehicle can impact the cost. Generally, brands such as BMW, Subaru, Lexus, and Honda offer reliable vehicles across the range, which may help keep insurance costs down.

For maintenance, consider investing in a vehicle known for its longevity and reliability. A good example is the Toyota Sienna, which has been known to last over 300,000 miles with proper maintenance.

Safety Features

Safety is an essential consideration when living in a car.

Opt for vehicles that have a reputation for safety and include features such as:

• Airbags
• Anti-lock braking systems (ABS)
• Electronic stability control (ESC)
• Forward collision warning (FCW)
• Automatic emergency braking (AEB)

Privacy

Privacy is crucial when living in a car, especially in urban areas. Here are some tips for ensuring privacy in your vehicle:

• Tinted windows: These can help block visibility into the vehicle.
• Window coverings: Installing removable curtains or window shades can provide added privacy.
• Choosing the right parking spot: Find spots that are low-traffic or secluded when possible, while remaining safe and legal.

Keep these factors in mind when choosing a car to live in, and you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect vehicle for your unique needs.

How to Make Your Car Livable

Storage Solutions

Creating a livable space in your car requires clever storage solutions to keep things organized and clutter-free. Consider using collapsible containers and hanging organizers to maximize space.

Some ideas include:

• Installing shelves and storage compartments in the trunk or the back of the car
• Hanging pocket organizers on the back of the front seats
• Using multi-function furniture, such as benches with storage spaces

Climate Control

To maintain a comfortable temperature inside your car while living in it, consider the following solutions:

• Insulating your vehicle with window shades or thermal curtains, to maintain a consistent temperature in both hot and cold weather
• Investing in a portable fan for cooling, or a small electric heater for warmth
• Ventilating your vehicle by opening windows or using roof vents to avoid condensation buildup

Hygiene and Bathroom Needs

Maintaining personal hygiene and addressing bathroom needs is essential for a comfortable lifestyle in your car. Consider these options:

• Using public restrooms or gym facilities to shower and freshen up
• Carrying a portable toilet or a luggable loo for emergencies when a public restroom is not available
• Keep a supply of wet wipes, hand sanitizer, and small trash bags to maintain cleanliness within your vehicle

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