Can you sleep in the back of a Subaru Crosstrek?
Yes. The Crosstrek can function as a compact, outdoor-friendly sleeping setup when you fold the rear seats and add a sleeping pad or lightweight mattress. It’s best suited for a solo traveler or a snug, short overnight, with taller sleepers or two adults feeling the space constrain.
Turning the Crosstrek into a flat sleeping surface
The Crosstrek’s rear seats fold down to create a relatively flat cargo floor. Most models use a 60/40 split, allowing you to fold one side or both to extend the sleeping area. When the seats lie flat, the floor becomes long enough for a person to lie down and stretch out, subject to the front-seat position and your height. A clean, padded surface helps bridge any small gaps and makes for a more comfortable night.
To maximize comfort, plan ahead with a thin yet supportive pad and a low-profile setup to minimize ridges where the seatbacks meet the floor. The goal is a smooth, level surface from tailgate to the folded seat area.
Before you rely on this as a long-term sleeping solution, check your model year’s folding configuration and test the space yourself to confirm it meets your comfort needs.
- Split-fold rear seats (60/40) that can create a longer, flatter load floor
- Flat cargo floor with minimal elevation differences when seats are folded
- Relatively low cargo floor height for easier access in and out
- Under-floor storage options that can tuck in a compact sleeping pad or bedding
With the seating configuration, you can extend the space for sleeping, but remember this is a compact SUV. Height, legroom, and personal comfort will vary by model year and trim, so it’s wise to test the setup before a longer trip.
Comfort and practical setup
Creating a comfortable night in the Crosstrek’s back requires attention to insulation, padding, and ventilation. A purpose-built sleeping pad or a compact inflatable mattress sized for cargo areas can dramatically improve comfort. Use breathable blankets or a sleeping bag, and position a pillow to support your head and neck. Avoid bulky mattresses that crowd the living area in the cabin and make entry/exit awkward.
Plan for ventilation and safety. Do not sleep with the engine running. crack a window for airflow as needed, and set climate controls to a safe, parked mode. If you’re using any powered gear, ensure you have a portable power source and keep cords clear of movement zones.
Steps to set up the sleeping area:
- Lower the rear seatbacks and clear the cargo floor
- Place a sleeping pad or thin air mattress on the flat surface
- Add blankets, a sleeping bag, and a pillow for insulation and comfort
- Ventilate safely by cracking a window and sleeping with the vehicle parked in a secure area
A tidy, well-padded setup can be surprisingly comfortable in the Crosstrek’s cargo space for a single night, especially when you’re outdoors and chasing a flexible travel routine.
Safety and legal considerations
Sleeping in a car is convenient for campers and road-trippers, but it requires careful attention to safety and local rules. Park only in legal, safe locations and avoid sleeping in a vehicle in a manner that could pose a risk to yourself or others. Do not sleep with the engine running, keep ventilation adequate, and secure all belongings when you’re away from the vehicle.
- Park in legal, well-lit areas whenever possible
- Never sleep with the engine running; use battery-powered options or outside heating if needed
- Crack a window for airflow while maintaining security
- Lock doors when away from the vehicle and store valuables out of sight
Local laws vary, and some places prohibit overnight vehicle sleeping. Always verify regulations where you plan to stop for the night.
Space for more than one person
For a solo traveler, the Crosstrek’s back space is typically adequate with a proper pad. Sharing the area with another adult is possible but tight. Taller sleepers will feel the length limited, and the overall width may feel cramped for two adults to sleep side by side. A compact, flexible sleeping arrangement—such as a split pad or diagonal layout—can help, but it’s not ideal for extended use.
- One adult sleeper is the most comfortable option
- Two adults can fit diagonally but will be tight
- Children or small pets may fit more easily in the available space
Ultimately, the Crosstrek works best for short naps or overnight stays for a single traveler who packs light and prioritizes a compact, efficient sleep setup.
Alternative sleeping setups
Rooftop tents and aftermarket options
For more space and greater comfort, some owners opt for rooftop tents or roof-mounted gear that elevates sleeping above the cabin. These setups provide better insulation and a broader sleeping surface but require additional equipment, installation, and budget considerations.
Inside-the-cargo alternatives
Custom foam inserts, modular bedding, or purpose-built cargo organizers can transform the back into a more comfortable bivouac. These options are increasingly popular among camper-van enthusiasts and can be tailored to fit the Crosstrek’s cargo dimensions without impeding seat-folding functionality.
Summary
The Subaru Crosstrek offers a workable, compact solution for sleeping in the back when the rear seats are folded flat and a sleeping pad or lightweight mattress is used. It’s most comfortable for a solo traveler on a short night or a nap, with two adults likely feeling cramped. Always prioritize safety and legality, ensure proper ventilation, and tailor bedding to fit the space. For longer trips or greater comfort, consider roof-top or interior-upgrading options to expand sleeping space beyond the cargo floor.
