Traveling and Sleeping in the Tremor

[hahahano]

Hi Everyone,

I have been a lurker for a while on this site, and I have finally created an account in order to ask some questions around travel and sleeping in trucks. Any answers you all can provide would be much appreciated.

I bought a 2020 F350 Lariat Tremor with the 6.7L a few months ago. I am relatively new to upstate New York and wanted a vehicle that could get me and my family through the more extreme snowy conditions out here. The message board on this site was a really useful resource in the buying process, and I absolutely love the truck.

My dad has been recently diagnosed with cancer. He lives in the southwest, and my wife is strongly encouraging me to go visit him. I am really hesitant to fly anywhere right now, especially to go visit him. I would never forgive myself if I somehow caught COVID on the way and gave it to him.

I'm strongly considering driving out to see him, even though it's 2500 miles. To minimize exposure along the way, I'm also considering sleeping in the truck.

All that said, my questions are:

1) Does anyone have recommendations for setting up sleeping arrangements in the back of a crew cab?

Has anyone used one of the air mattresses designed to go on top of car seats? Has anyone had success just putting a memory foam or air mattress on the floor with the back seats folded up? For reference, I am 5'11" and ~200lbs.

I will add that, while I really like the idea of getting a shell for the bed, but I use the bed pretty regularly to haul things, so I think it would be inconvenient long-term to have it covered, or to have to remove and reinstall it repeatedly. Also, I'm not sure I'd even be able to get a shell within the next few weeks.

2) How do you find a place to sleep overnight in a vehicle?

I know there are rest stops and truck stops all over the place, but is there some etiquette around where you know it's safe to park and sleep overnight?

3) Can the engine be idled overnight for heat and power?

I've heard that maintained diesels can idle for really long periods of time, and I'm sure I've seen big rig drivers keep their engines running overnight, but I don't know how long the 6.7 diesel is able to run when idling. Can it just keep going so long as it has fuel? Are there long-term drawbacks to doing so? The auto shut-off setting turns the vehicle off after 15-30 mins - is that just concern about emissions or the longevity of the engine? My main interest here is running the heat overnight safely.


I apologize if these are overly newbie questions. Again, I appreciate any help you all can provide. Thank you very much.

 

[optx002]

I dont have any personal experience, but i have seen videos of hot shot truckers sleeping in the back. The ones I've seen have a mattress on top of the back seat . They keep the feet area open for storage of tools and gear. You might want to lay a sheet of plywood on the floor as the underseat storage portion is a bit higher. For overnight places, RV'er sleep at walmarts or cracker barrels. You need to make sure they are ok with it. There are a few apps for that, I have used RVparky and if you click on walmart, it sometimes lists if they are ok with you sleeping 1 night or not. Las Vegas for example will not let you stay in a walmart lot. Most other places seem to be ok with it. Truck stops are known to be super noisy as trucks go in and out, air brakes, generators, etc. You might even be better off parking at the back of hotel parking lots. I would get some window blocking material such as reflectix. Get a huge roll and cut it to fit your windows so you get privacy and some insulation. I wouldnt leave the engine idling all night. Could cause some issues with the DPF. Try to take the southern route and hope for warmer weather. Probably get a 0 degree sleeping bag and a few blankets. If you have any battery packs like goal zero or anything else, you can probably run a small heater. Best of luck if you make this trip. I've done cross country many times, as recent as this June and stayed at hotels. I get you might not be comfortable staying at a hotel, but some have contactless check ins .

 

[legmar]

Another option other than running your truck engine is to get a small generator to carry in the bed. Even a very tiny and quiet generator could easily run a small electric heater.

Walmart’s and Cracker Barrel’s are great places to stop overnight. Generally the guidance and etiquette is that you 1) call ahead and ask permission (even if an app says it’s ok - you never know if there is something temporary like parking lot stripe painting occurring that would make the place off limits for a period of time), 2) ensure you leave no trash or indication of your overnight stay, and 3) if possible, buy something from the store or business as your way of saying thanks for the free parking.

Have you considered buying a very small RV travel trailer or camper? Just a small trailer that has enough room for a bed only would make your trips so much more convenient. If you got a small, fully featured RV with a bathroom you’d even be able to eat, sleep, ?, and cook without going into places while traveling.

 

[Patriot]

First....really sorry to hear about your Dad.

Have you considered renting a small travel trailer for a few weeks? Or maybe even a small motorhome?
I bet if you contacted a local dealer and explained your situation they might have something that they could help with, even a used TT or RV. Given your circumstances I cannot imagine anyone not helping out.

Most importantly it would provide a decent place to sleep and eat while traveling and visiting your Dad.
Prayers for a successful outcome. ????

 

[ECHO-24]

I would not let the truck idle, I had a 6.7 PS in my 2012, Idling is killer for the emissions systems.
Eric

 

[Patriot]

I would not let the truck idle, I had a 6.7 PS in my 2012, Idling is killer for the emissions systems.
Eric

Excellent add Eric.

 

[PapaRaptor]

Welcome and sorry about your dad.

I do not recommend you keep it idling for long periods of time. In the old days that was fine but these new diesel trucks have too many emission controls and DEF

I think there will be plenty of places to pull over and sleep, there is probably an app for that.

There is a ton of room in the cab should be easy to find a way to snooze

 

[PapaRaptor]

Also take Walter with you on the trip!

 

[TrailBlazin]

You could also find KOAs or something like that and just camp your way down.
I have a tent and air mattress that fit in the bed of my Tremor. No need to find a spot on the ground.
I hope it works out well for you.

 

[Iron Man]

Hi Everyone,

I have been a lurker for a while on this site, and I have finally created an account in order to ask some questions around travel and sleeping in trucks. Any answers you all can provide would be much appreciated.

I bought a 2020 F350 Lariat Tremor with the 6.7L a few months ago. I am relatively new to upstate New York and wanted a vehicle that could get me and my family through the more extreme snowy conditions out here. The message board on this site was a really useful resource in the buying process, and I absolutely love the truck.

My dad has been recently diagnosed with cancer. He lives in the southwest, and my wife is strongly encouraging me to go visit him. I am really hesitant to fly anywhere right now, especially to go visit him. I would never forgive myself if I somehow caught COVID on the way and gave it to him.

I'm strongly considering driving out to see him, even though it's 2500 miles. To minimize exposure along the way, I'm also considering sleeping in the truck.

All that said, my questions are:

1) Does anyone have recommendations for setting up sleeping arrangements in the back of a crew cab?

Has anyone used one of the air mattresses designed to go on top of car seats? Has anyone had success just putting a memory foam or air mattress on the floor with the back seats folded up? For reference, I am 5'11" and ~200lbs.

I will add that, while I really like the idea of getting a shell for the bed, but I use the bed pretty regularly to haul things, so I think it would be inconvenient long-term to have it covered, or to have to remove and reinstall it repeatedly. Also, I'm not sure I'd even be able to get a shell within the next few weeks.

2) How do you find a place to sleep overnight in a vehicle?

I know there are rest stops and truck stops all over the place, but is there some etiquette around where you know it's safe to park and sleep overnight?

3) Can the engine be idled overnight for heat and power?

I've heard that maintained diesels can idle for really long periods of time, and I'm sure I've seen big rig drivers keep their engines running overnight, but I don't know how long the 6.7 diesel is able to run when idling. Can it just keep going so long as it has fuel? Are there long-term drawbacks to doing so? The auto shut-off setting turns the vehicle off after 15-30 mins - is that just concern about emissions or the longevity of the engine? My main interest here is running the heat overnight safely.


I apologize if these are overly newbie questions. Again, I appreciate any help you all can provide. Thank you very much.

May GOD Bless You and Your Family Especially your Father during this Crisis. I will add you and your dad to my daily Prayers. Life is way to short and so many of us have to many regrets. Go see your pops for sure. It would do him good to see you during this tuff time he is going through.
Good luck with your journey my man. Take many pics of your trip to share with him and to remember this adventure later in life. Live life to its fullest and thank GOD for all HE has Blessed you with.
This Forum has the greatest group of men pulling for each other. I'm glad you are now part of this big crazy Family. Merry Christmas my fellow NYer. ? ? ? ??????
Don

 

[inthegap18]

Praying for your safe travel and especially for your dad
Dont worry about the newb questions
Tremor hasnt been out all that long so we are all kinda newbies learning from each other

 

[stickshifter]

I'm not here to answer any of your questions, just to wish you Godspeed and the best possible outcome for your family.

 

[modified]

Hi Everyone,

I have been a lurker for a while on this site, and I have finally created an account in order to ask some questions around travel and sleeping in trucks. Any answers you all can provide would be much appreciated.

I bought a 2020 F350 Lariat Tremor with the 6.7L a few months ago. I am relatively new to upstate New York and wanted a vehicle that could get me and my family through the more extreme snowy conditions out here. The message board on this site was a really useful resource in the buying process, and I absolutely love the truck.

My dad has been recently diagnosed with cancer. He lives in the southwest, and my wife is strongly encouraging me to go visit him. I am really hesitant to fly anywhere right now, especially to go visit him. I would never forgive myself if I somehow caught COVID on the way and gave it to him.

I'm strongly considering driving out to see him, even though it's 2500 miles. To minimize exposure along the way, I'm also considering sleeping in the truck.

All that said, my questions are:

1) Does anyone have recommendations for setting up sleeping arrangements in the back of a crew cab?

Has anyone used one of the air mattresses designed to go on top of car seats? Has anyone had success just putting a memory foam or air mattress on the floor with the back seats folded up? For reference, I am 5'11" and ~200lbs.

I will add that, while I really like the idea of getting a shell for the bed, but I use the bed pretty regularly to haul things, so I think it would be inconvenient long-term to have it covered, or to have to remove and reinstall it repeatedly. Also, I'm not sure I'd even be able to get a shell within the next few weeks.

2) How do you find a place to sleep overnight in a vehicle?

I know there are rest stops and truck stops all over the place, but is there some etiquette around where you know it's safe to park and sleep overnight?

3) Can the engine be idled overnight for heat and power?

I've heard that maintained diesels can idle for really long periods of time, and I'm sure I've seen big rig drivers keep their engines running overnight, but I don't know how long the 6.7 diesel is able to run when idling. Can it just keep going so long as it has fuel? Are there long-term drawbacks to doing so? The auto shut-off setting turns the vehicle off after 15-30 mins - is that just concern about emissions or the longevity of the engine? My main interest here is running the heat overnight safely.


I apologize if these are overly newbie questions. Again, I appreciate any help you all can provide. Thank you very much.

Welcome to the forum @hahahano - sorry to hear about your dad. I wish him the best for a full recovery.

I've stayed in several truck stops with my truck and trailer and never had any problems. I normally just try to park next to the other guys towing campers . I agree with the advice on calling before hand at Walmart and cracker barrel. Certain rest areas along the route might be ok. I've seen certain cities provide free overnight camping as well.

Check out: https://freecampsites.net/

Some apps that might help:

‎Boondocking

‎Boondocking usually refers to free camping in remote areas. This app shows over 1,690 free boondocking locations (and growing), most within the US. The boondocking locations are obtained from crowdsourcing and are therefore subjective in nature. What one person describes as beautiful another...

apps.apple.com

‎Camp & RV - Tent & RV Camping

‎One time fee app. It's time you enjoy the journey. The most complete and popular camping app of all time helps you do that as you find and filter places and services with or without internet. Tents, RV resorts, parking lots, fuel, rest areas, repairs, tunnels, even inclines. Extensive filters...

apps.apple.com

I'm interested in seeing what other solutions you come up with as well. Please let us know!

 

[Dare]

Sorry to hear about your father. Below seems like a good option.

FBSPORT Bed Car Mattress Camping Mattress for Car Sleeping Bed Travel Inflatable Mattress Air Bed for Car Universal SUV Extended Air Couch with Two Air Pillows https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01EKT08U8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glc_fabc_mCv4FbMRD4PT0

 

[J Money]

Another idea... I guess this depends if you can handle a confined space. Maybe a Bak Flip would work for you. I currently have one with a Bed Rug. It can be opened from the inside and might give you additional space to stretch out. You had mentioned a shell, but this is a decent alternative... I fold mine up to put mountain bikes in the bed of my truck. Also... we have a travel trailer but I often use a Goal Zero to power the TV’s and other stuff while we dry camp. A Yeti 400 will power 2 LED TV’s overnight with plenty of juice to spare. I also love them in event of an emergency. I think a BakFlip and Sleeping Bag should keep you warm enough. I also have water bricks... and their spots for washing hands etc, but also have BuiltRight Bedside Racks and keep water and gear stowed out of the way. Some water, baby wipes and portable power should get you on your way. The Goal Zero can be charged from your AC outlet or Cigarette lighter during driving time.

Little space heaters do take a lot of juice to run but I know there’s some models which are effective. If that’s an interesting set up, I’d be happy to share more details.

FYI... a ton of states... specifically here in CA aren’t allowing camping. Even private camp grounds are only allowing people for longer stays if they are more or less “trapped.”

I was thinking of a trip to Texas but states like New Mexico sound pretty gnarly at the moment.

There’s been some talk of contact tracing or collecting data at border crossings/agriculture checkpoint.

I had an employee come out to CA and he used all cash for gas purchases and was “wise” to avoid any issues.

Good Luck and do what you have to do.

PS. I think camping worlds are friendly for overnight stays as well.

 

[Apparition]

Another idea... I guess this depends if you can handle a confined space. Maybe a Bak Flip would work for you. I currently have one with a Bed Rug. It can be opened from the inside and might give you additional space to stretch out. You had mentioned a shell, but this is a decent alternative... I fold mine up to put mountain bikes in the bed of my truck. Also... we have a travel trailer but I often use a Goal Zero to power the TV’s and other stuff while we dry camp. A Yeti 400 will power 2 LED TV’s overnight with plenty of juice to spare. I also love them in event of an emergency. I think a BakFlip and Sleeping Bag should keep you warm enough. I also have water bricks... and their spots for washing hands etc, but also have BuiltRight Bedside Racks and keep water and gear stowed out of the way. Some water, baby wipes and portable power should get you on your way. The Goal Zero can be charged from your AC outlet or Cigarette lighter during driving time.

Little space heaters do take a lot of juice to run but I know there’s some models which are effective. If that’s an interesting set up, I’d be happy to share more details.

FYI... a ton of states... specifically here in CA aren’t allowing camping. Even private camp grounds are only allowing people for longer stays if they are more or less “trapped.”

I was thinking of a trip to Texas but states like New Mexico sound pretty gnarly at the moment.

There’s been some talk of contact tracing or collecting data at border crossings/agriculture checkpoint.

I had an employee come out to CA and he used all cash for gas purchases and was “wise” to avoid any issues.

Good Luck and do what you have to do.

PS. I think camping worlds are friendly for overnight stays as well.

Could add a softopper

 

[Jperkins]

I bought one of those air mattress rear seat deals and returned it. No support in foot area way too flimsy

 

[funnyman3000]

I just got back from driving 2,400 miles from the east coast to west. My Snugtop was delayed so I did exactly what you’re describing.
Bed: I used THIS to sleep on the back seat (I got the one with split footwell supports because I had my cooler on the passenger side already for drinks/snacks). At 5’10” I thought I would still be balled-up, but surprisingly you can stretch out if you go diagonal.
Heat: I have a Jackery 1000 (sort of like the Goal Zero) battery pack. I used THIS space heater which lasts about 3hrs continuous use (set to a lower temp it can cycle for about 6hrs. It also has to be under 300watt because the inverter can’t handle the higher draw of home units.) It then charges to full while you drive. This was ok in the 40s, but at single digits in Utah it was still too cold. I bought a 1500watt and will plug in to shore power next time.
Locations: There are rest stops on the east coast/midwest, and there is BLM land on the west coast. You don’t have to call anyone for those, but you should research the route on Google Maps and drop pins at your stops. (most Walmarts, Cracker Barrels, and Camping Worlds are fine too in a pinch). If you need the shore power for the heater in colder climates you’ll have to research RV parks/campsites that are open right now.
Blackout window covers: Good for both privacy and the morning light waking you up. I used a generic windshield shade, and cardboard spray painted black on one side For the rear windows (I will use Reflectix on the topper windows once I get it, but I made do with what I had on hand for now.)


(As an alternative to driving, remember you can fly and then isolate for 5 days while you wait for a Covid test result. That way you can rest assured you don’t put elderly relatives at risk.)

 

[funnyman3000]

This is what my back seat looked like. Threw my sleeping bag/pillow on top and just left it that way while driving to save on setup time.