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Can you freeze sleeping in a car?

I want to do winter camping and wonder if I can sleep in my car. I feel like there should be good insulation inside. I’ve never seen frost inside my car, after all! Can you freeze sleeping in a car?

avatar
Bonnie Stinson · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Yes, you can freeze sleeping in a car.
Your vehicle is made of metal and glass. These will do practically nothing to keep your body heat inside on a cold night. Remember, hypothermia can occur between 30 and 50°F with prolonged exposure, especially if you get wet. If your core temperature drops below 82°F, you’ll lose consciousness. If your core temp reaches 70°F, death is possible.
To ensure you sleep safely and comfortably, insulate the windows and floor of your vehicle. Layer up with clothing and use a sleeping bag rated for cold conditions.
Make sure to leave a window gap or find other means of creating airflow. Even in winter, condensation can be a major problem. It could freeze inside the windshield and then you couldn’t drive in the morning! Pack your
winter emergency car kit
, too.
Regular maintenance is the best strategy for ensuring your car runs smoothly, but a good
car insurance
policy can provide extra peace of mind. For instance, you could add roadside assistance to your policy in case you get locked out in the snow or need a jumpstart. Use the free
Jerry
app to see how cheap it could be.
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