If you have a low clearance vehicle, parking in parking garages is a great way to have a paid spot to yourself if you don't need any amenities. It can also shelter your vehicle from snow and severe weather. Note that renting a parking space for the purpose of sleeping or camping there is usually not permitted by local law and/or the garage owner. Before sleeping overnight, check parking regulations to ensure that you are not breaking any rules, and be sure to follow best practices when parking at a business.
Underground levels and upper levels will generally be the quietest. The deepest underground levels will generally be the best temperature and the most protected from severe weather.
Note that parking garages will generally have bright lights on all night. This can be a disadvantage (harder to sleep, and impossible to get out of your vehicle without being seen) and an advantage (if any light leaks through your window coverings, it won't really be visible under the bright exterior lights).
If you are regularly parked in an underground parking garage, note that parking garages are not designed for human habitation and may not be tested for CO or radon. The risk is probably low in most areas.[1] You may want to get a carbon monoxide detector.
Keeping a low profile
To be less noticeable when in a car park:[2]:
- Follow basic tips for stealth camping.
- Pick large garages with many levels so you're one of hundreds of vehicles instead of one of dozens.
- Pick garages that service residential buildings so overnight vehicle parking is common.
- If you are there more than one day, be sure to move your car each day.
- Never plug in to any power outlets or connect to any water taps in the garage.