In my trader, I run with crew in my hold and they sleep beside some h-fuel, o2, and food as well as the cargo. I would enjoy having the game mechanics enforce the need for at least crew and fuel - fuel in particular - but last time this was raised most of the community was not in favour - which is okay.
I look at the hold as an extension of the whole ship, bridge, living quarters and everything.
EDIT: Crazy thoughts: capship, in battle - crew die when you take damage - the more crew dead the fewer weapons you can fire.
Proud member of "the most paranoid group of people in the community"
