Converting a Toyota Corolla Into a Sleeper

Sometimes it is nice to have a backup plan, such as the ability to sleep relatively comfortably in a car for the night if the need arises.

This project details how a camp stretcher was fitted into a Toyota Corolla. It may not fit into all cars as the car probably needs to be a hatch or something similar.

Camp stretcher

Car which will fit the camp stretcher (I used a Toyota Corolla, but am pretty sure I have also fitted into a Toyota Yaris)

Duct Tape

Few small boards

Tools:

Hacksaw

The object is to fit a stretcher bed into the car so you have a flat, supported surface to sleep on.

1. Unfold the stretcher bed.
2. Cut off the middle support just after the cross over support with a hacksaw.
3. Tape the cut edges so they do not damage the car's interior.

1. Remove the parcel shelf from the boot.
2. Flatten down the back seats.
3. Move the front seats forward and then flatten the seats backwards.

1. Slide the made up stretcher bed into the car through the boot.
2. Slide pieces of wooden board under the stretcher bed's legs to support it and protect the car's furnishings.
3. Use duct tape to secure the stretcher's legs to the boards.
4. Check the stretcher is level, adjust with more supporting boards if required.

1. Put the removed parcel shelf and front head rests back into the car.
2. Place any other items back into the car, there is space under the stretcher to store items.
3. Close the boot (trunk).

Getting onto the stretcher can be achieved by coming through the drivers door and lying with your head near the rear of the car. While there is not much head space you doesn't feel claustrophobic as there are windows all around.