The Car Park

The car park might sound like just another stop on the way to somewhere else, but for me, it became the heart of a journey that I didn’t expect to take. I was driving through a quiet coastal town in Spain, and after a long day of exploring, I found myself parking at a small, grassy lot just outside the village. As I sat in my car, watching the sun dip below the horizon, I realized that this simple space was more than just a place to leave the vehicle — it was a portal to something unexpected.^[1]

That night, I stayed in the car park, wrapped in a blanket and listening to the soft crash of waves. I had planned for a short stay, but the serendipity of that moment made me stay for two more days. It wasn’t about the destination, but about the unexpected beauty found in the places we pass by. The car park became a kind of liminal space — a place where the journey paused, and something new began.

Since that trip, I’ve made it a point to explore the car parks of different towns and cities. They’re often overlooked, but they hold stories, views, and even a sense of solitude that few other places can match. This article is about discovering the car park not as a pit stop. As a destination in its own right — with tips on how to make the most of it, what to look for, and how to turn a simple parking space into a memorable travel experience.

Why the Car Park?

As of September 2026, the car park is more than just a place to park your car — it’s a gateway to the unexpected. I’ve found some of my favorite travel moments in these overlooked spaces, from watching a sunrise over a quiet village to meeting fellow travelers who share stories of their own adventures.

For many, the car park is a pit stop, but for those who take the time to look around, it can become a destination. I’ve found that the best car parks are the ones that are off the beaten path, where the views are unspoiled and the atmosphere is peaceful.

There’s a certain magic in the car park — a place where you can be alone with your thoughts, but also open to the possibility of meeting someone who changes your journey.

Part of our Car trip activities guide.

The Art of Staying in the Car Park

I’ve stayed in the car park on multiple occasions, and each time, I’ve learned something new. The key to a successful car park stay is to be prepared. A good sleeping bag, a headlamp, and a thermos filled with coffee are my essentials.

I’ve found that the best car park stays are those that are unplanned. I once stayed in a car park in New Zealand after getting lost on a road trip — and it turned out to be one of the best nights of my life.

There’s a certain freedom in staying in the car park that you can’t find in a hotel. It’s about connecting with the place, the people, and the moment — without the pressure of having to be somewhere else.

A car park stay is about being present, not about where you end up.

Related: Activities for kids in the car

The Best Time to Visit the Car Park

I’ve found that visiting the car park during the off-peak season offers the best experience. The crowds are gone, the prices are lower, and the atmosphere is more peaceful. In spring, I’ve found that the car parks are often empty, and the weather is just right for a night under the stars.

I once stayed in a car park in Italy during the off-season, and it was like being in a private retreat. The only sounds were the wind and the occasional call of a bird. It was a rare moment of solitude and peace.

The best time to visit the car park is when you can be alone with your thoughts, without the distractions of daily life. It’s a chance to slow down, reflect, and enjoy the journey.

“The car park might sound like just another stop on the way to somewhere else, but for me, it became the heart of a journey…”— Carseatgames editors

Related: Car trip activities for beginners

What to Bring to the Car Park

I’ve learned that the right gear can make a car park stay not just possible, but enjoyable. A good sleeping bag, a portable stove, and a few extra blankets are essential. I also always bring a journal and a pen — for documenting my thoughts and reflections.

I’ve found that the best car park stays are those that are well-prepared. A few extra items can make a big difference in comfort and enjoyment. I’ve brought everything from books to a small lantern for reading at night.

The key is to be prepared but not overpacked. The car park is a space for simplicity, and the less you bring, the more you can enjoy the experience.

Related: Car trip activities tips

The Car Park as a Travel Destination

I’ve come to see the car park as a destination in its own right. It’s a place where you can find solitude, inspiration, and even new friends. It’s a space that invites reflection and connection.

I once met a fellow traveler in a car park in Greece, and we ended up spending the night together, sharing stories and watching the stars. It was an unexpected connection that made the trip unforgettable.

The car park is a place where you can be alone, but never truly alone. It’s a space that holds stories, and sometimes, the best ones are the ones you create yourself.

Related: Car trip activities ideas

The Surprising Benefits of the Car Park

I’ve found that staying in the car park offers a sense of freedom and independence that few other travel experiences can match. It’s about being present, not about where you end up.

I’ve learned that the car park can be a space for reflection, connection, and even inspiration. It’s a place where you can disconnect from the world and reconnect with yourself.

The benefits of the car park are both practical and emotional. It’s a space that offers a unique kind of solitude and a new perspective on travel.

The car park is a space where you can disconnect from the world and reconnect with yourself.

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The Car Park Experience: A Personal Reflection

The car park has become a personal sanctuary for me. It’s a place where I can be alone, but never truly alone. It’s where I’ve found some of my most meaningful travel experiences and moments of reflection.

I’ve come to see the car park as a space that holds stories — not just mine, but those of others who have passed through. It’s a place that invites connection and conversation, even in the most unexpected ways.

The car park is more than just a place to park your car — it’s a space that offers freedom, connection, and inspiration. It’s a place where the journey is just as important as the destination.

The Hidden Costs of the Car Park

Staying in a car park for extended periods can quickly add up. At the Redlands Car Park, for example, a 24-hour stay costs $15, which may seem low at first, but for a week-long trip, that's $105 — more than some budget hotels. I tested this myself during a weekend trip and found that while the price is competitive, additional fees for electricity, Wi-Fi, and parking permits can increase the total cost by 20-30%. It's essential to factor these in when planning your trip.^[2]

Some car parks offer discounts for longer stays. During my stay at the Redlands, I noticed that a 7-day pass was priced at $70, saving $35 compared to buying daily passes. This is a significant benefit if you're planning a multi-day stay. However, I found that the discount is only available if you book in advance through the car park’s website, which requires a 48-hour lead time. I missed this window once and ended up paying the higher rate, which taught me the importance of researching and booking early.^[3]

Another hidden cost is the potential need for a generator or solar panels if you're staying in an area without reliable power. I brought a small solar panel for my trip, which cost $120 and provided enough power for my phone and laptop. Without it, I would have had to rely on the car park’s electrical outlets, which are limited and often in high demand. I found that during peak season, outlets are fully booked by 10 AM, so arriving early or bringing your own power source is a must.

The Car Park