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Turns out, sleeping in your car actually can be cozy.

On the road again, we just can't wait to get on the road again! If there's one good thing that came from the global pandemic, it's that it reignited our passion for the great outdoors. The second spring rolls around, you can find us packing our bags and hitting the road to explore.

Another thing we learned from our quarantine time? How to travel independently. In a time when staying in hotels and AirBNBs wasn't the safest option, many Americans resorted to the next best option: camping. Whether they purchased an RV or an Airstream or they camped the good ole' fashioned way, many of us spent time traversing the country in self-reliant and independent ways. Not in the market for an RV or trailer? No problem! Camping in tents and even cars is safe and legal in most places and can be an inexpensive and—say it ain't so—even cozy alternative.

Of course, you'll want to be sure you're fully prepared before you hit the roads, and we're here to help. First off, map out your entire trip, including any necessary stops you plan to make. We'd suggest including inexpensive grocery stores to stock up on food, cheap gas stations, and camping sites. Next, invest in some high-quality gear, like chairs, hammocks, stoves, etc., and you're on the right track. Before you head out, don't forget to plan for meals—we love bringing a trusted Dutch oven and other camping cookware to enjoy the taste of a home-cooked meal. And, of course, don't forget to double check your camping list!

Window screens do double duty by upping privacy and cooling things down. If you plan on sleeping in your car, you can also prevent a stuffy environment by rolling the windows down and leaving the shades intact for a welcoming breeze.

This SUV tent gives you the perfect place to sleep outside your car, while still being able to easily access your trunk. And truck drivers, don't worry! There's one for trucks, too.

Attach this to the outside of your car to charge during the day, and then plug your devices in once you've turned your car off for the night.

If you don't own a tent (or don't want to mess with setting it up), this inexpensive car bed will help you rest a little easier.

If you'd prefer to camp outside of your car, a pop-up tent like this makes finding shelter a breeze. It stores away in a small bag when not in use and assembles in 90 seconds.

No matter the season, it's a good idea to have a sun shade like this on hand if you plan on spending time relaxing outside.

Hammocks are an inexpensive way to make the most of sleeping in the great outdoors, especially when you can snag one like this that includes a rain shelter and mosquito net.

Whether you're looking for a place to spend the night or simply need to pull over and rest for a bit, the Allstays app will show you the best nearby spots. You might also find their Walmart Overnight Parking app helpful if you're looking for more places to sleep in your car.

Ensure your car is cool and breezy (and avoid condensation build-up) with this simple trick. If you don't mind some bugs passing through while you sleep, simply crack your windows.

Invest in an easy-to-assemble piece like this, or simply suspend a waterproof tarp with some rope from the back of your car.

Eating on the go doesn't necessarily have to equate to fast food from the car and/or rest stops. Make the most of your car-to-table dining experience by elongating your trunk with a slab of wood, which you can store beneath your luggage and supplies. You can even DIY an enclosed wood storage unit to fit the width of your trunk, then convert the lid into a sturdy table.

No matter how long you'll be on the road, you should never stress about when or where you'll shower next. Pack a shower head just in case, but also know that you can take advantage of a few other on-the-go hygiene hacks. For starters, if you're a gym member, your membership could grant you access to various branches across the country. Or, you can download apps like Oh, Ranger! ParkFinder to locate campsites near you. Get the app for free at the App Store.

This liquid propane gas grill doesn't take up much space and means you can enjoy delicious meals when you go car camping. You can also use a mini charcoal grill if you prefer.

Check out the campgrounds listed on U.S. Forest Service road for a list of spots where you can park overnight (as long as you're not blocking any vehicles).

Plug this cooler into your cigarette lighter to keep drinks and food chilled all day long.

Transform a cereal container into a lightweight, portable trashcan by lining it with a plastic bag.

A few simple modifications will turn your car, van, or truck into your very own mini camper.

Get the tutorial at Hyperbrain.me.

Use the GasBuddy app to find the cheapest gas prices on your route.

Get the app for free at the App Store.

Wash dishes, do some light laundry, or lather your face on-the-go with this compact and handy tub that folds down and stows away.

Leave the bulky suitcases at home and keep everything in clear, categorized bins, so you can easily find what you’re looking for.

For any supplies that can't be crammed into the trunk, outsource to the top of your car. Come rain or shine, this durable bag will keep your necessities intact and protected from the elements.

Take advantage of any elevated hooks from inside your car and make sure that a lantern or two is always within reach once the sun goes down.

While this is definitely on the more expensive side, it's still cheaper than a hotel or RV.