bilager

Bilager is a term used in some Nordic contexts to describe a form of camping in which participants sleep in their own vehicle rather than in a tent or dedicated camper. The word combines bil, meaning car, and lager, meaning camp or camp-site, and it is typically used informally to refer to overnight stays inside a car during trips, festivals, or road travel.

In practice, bilager involves using the vehicle as the primary shelter, with sleeping space configured from the interior or a modified setup in the car. People may employ window covers, sunshades, air mattresses, sleeping bags, and organized storage to create a functional overnight arrangement. The approach is often chosen for flexibility, reduced packing, and cost savings, especially on multi-day trips or when traditional accommodations are scarce.

Regulations and safety considerations are important, as rules about overnight parking vary by country and locality. Safety concerns include proper ventilation if the engine is not running, minimizing noise, securing belongings, and adhering to local parking rules and time limits. Comfort and privacy are generally more limited compared with tents or dedicated campers, and weather conditions can significantly affect the experience.

Bilager is commonly associated with car enthusiasts, road-trippers, and festival-goers who value convenience and speed of setup. It can be practiced at designated campgrounds, highway rest areas, or private parking areas where overnight stays are permitted.

See also: car camping, overlanding, road trip, camping regulations.