Can You Sleep In A Minivan? [ Which One is Best? We Answered ]

We’ve heard a lot lately about the growing popularity of the tiny house movement. At the same time, some families are searching for larger accommodations, specifically a minivan, since they’re more spacious than SUVs, which are typically the go-to vehicle for families.

But can a minivan be a comfortable, sleep-inducing sleeping space for adults and kids?

Can you Sleep in a Minivan?

Yes, it is possible. Most people don’t realize that sleeping in a minivan is legal in most cities and states; however, it is not a comfortable sleeping experience for most people. 

Some people enjoy it, but it is never a choice for kids. Sleeping in a car is often more comfortable than sleeping on the ground in a tent or simply under the stars; however, it is far from satisfactory. 

Is it possible for you to rest in a minivan?

Technically, it is possible, but do you know that you need a sleeping mat on the floor and a pillow to do this? You can use the passenger side front seats as your bed while the backseat is your sleeping area.

There should be enough space for your body. If you think of sleeping in the backseat, you might find it uncomfortable since it can get cramped. The passenger side front seats are more comprehensive than the backseat, so there will be enough space to fit a sleeping child.

It would help if you changed into warm clothing to avoid freezing in the cold.

Which Minivan is Best for Sleeping?

As long as you don’t camp with the engine running and make sure the windows are closed and locked, you can sleep in the back of a van. It’s generally easier to sleep in the back of a van that’s higher off the ground than it is to sleep in the back of a low-roof SUV.

1. Chrysler Pacifica

If you’re looking for the best van to sleep in, you should check out the Chrysler Pacifica. The Pacifica makes it on this list because it is roomy and comfortable and has a lot of storage areas.

This makes it ideal for people who like to live in a van. There are windows on the side and back of the van to get fresh air.

The interior is comfortable and easy to maintain. The Pacifica also has excellent fuel economy and comes with many safety features.

2. Kia Sedona

This is one of the best vans to sleep in. The Sedona is spacious, but it is also high quality and relaxing to drive.

The Kia Sedona is the only minivan that has scored the best safety rating in each category by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. This makes the Sedona one of the safest vehicles on the road.

Kia Sedona has a smooth ride with a quiet cabin. You can even lay down right on the floor of the Sedona, so you can get a night of good sleep while still being safe and secure.

3. Ford Transit Connect

This is one of the best vans to sleep in. The Ford Transit Connect is perfect for those who want to live the unconventional lifestyle of van dwelling.

It is a compact, efficient, and highly functional van best for those who wish to travel in a small space but want to bring their family.

4. The Toyota Sienna

This is the best van to sleep in. The passenger seat folds flat into a bed, and the high roof gives you enough headroom to sit up.

The only problem is that the windows don’t open, but you can get around this by opening the sliding side door and sleeping with the door propped up.

5. The Honda Odyssey

It is known for being an excellent minivan. It is also known for is being a wonderful place to sleep. The Odyssey is a huge van. It has a huge backseat, which is perfect for sleeping.

The seats are very comfortable, even more so than the seats in most cars.

The seats are heated and have tremendous reclining ability.

6. The Dodge Grand Caravan

It is one of the best minivans to sleep in because it has three rows of seats that can fold down completely flat, creating a level sleeping space measuring 6.3 feet by 3.3 feet.

It has a storage area in the front of the van behind the third row of seats big enough to store your luggage and gear. The Grand Caravan has almost twice the interior volume of its closest competitor, the Honda Odyssey.

7. Mercedes-Benz Metris

If you are looking for a family vehicle that can double as your home on wheels, Mercedes-Benz Metris is one of the best minivans to sleep in. It has everything you need in a minivan.

It is way more spacious than a standard van, allowing you to sleep at night. The seats fold in ways that will enable you to have a bed.

The Metris has plenty of space and a lot of storage with a large open cargo area, split-folding rear seats, and a rear cargo floor that’s flat and unobstructed.

8. RAM ProMaster City

It is a game-changer for the segment: it’s got a very comfortable backseat, fold-down table, decent storage, and excellent visibility. This build gives a good size bed and plenty of storage.

You can easily fit two people and a dog in here. You can put a/c in here and make this a very comfortable little camper!

Can you put a bed in a minivan?

Some minivans have enough space to fit a queen-size mattress. You can also have two kid-sized mattresses fit in according to your needs.

However, you’ll want a roof-mounted rack to keep them from sliding around and damaging the vehicle. Modern roof racks are designed to carry heavy loads and are easy to install.

It’s best to use cross rails to tie down the mattresses and anything else you’re having.

If you’re planning on moving a queen or king-size bed, you should have a van at least 20′ long. You can, however, put a mattress in a minivan.

Just be sure to use a bed frame that is easy to break down. You might also want to consider hiring movers to move your mattress in the event of a move.

Ways to Make Sleeping in a Minivan More Comfortable

Sleeping in the van can be done, but some tricks aid in comfort. These tips are geared toward sleeping in a minivan but may be beneficial to sleeping in a passenger car.

• If you are in a minivan and cannot put the seats down, you can put some books or other boxes below to elevate your feet a bit.
• Having a fan directed on you while you sleep will help if you are camping during the summer.
• The back of the van is typically the coolest part of the vehicle. Sleep with the windows cracked and the sunroof open if possible to be safe. If you can do this without letting in too much rain and wind, it makes a big difference.
• In some places, sleeping in your vehicle is illegal on public property, but it is still legal if you are parked on private property and have permission from the owner of said property.
• Be sure to park in a location that is safe and accessible 24 hours. Also, it’s essential to be aware of your surroundings. Keep a cell phone on your person in case of emergencies.

Conclusion

Yes. You don’t have to compromise on space or style. The minivan packs a lot of amenities in a compact package.

What it lacks in class, it more than makes up for comfort. The minivan is a roomy, versatile family hauler that can get you where you need to go in style.