My brother was living in his van in Dallas back around 1975. He'd often have to move once or twice a night after getting rousted by the cops. One night he met a girl at a party and was talking to her about his problems finding a good place to park for the night. "You can park in front of my house!" she said. So that night, he he parked in front of her house. In the morning, she brought him coffee. The next night she invited him inside. The next year, they got married, and they're still married 47 years later.
@@cjasgill1 True story. They have three kids, and a bunch of grandkids. I lived in that house for awhile after they moved out. A bungalow built in 1913 in the Swiss Avenue Historic District.
@@aleks1939 I did a lot of hitch hiking back then. It was the most natural thing to just stick out your thumb if you wanted to get somewhere. Mostly local, but also several trips back and forth between Dallas and Baltimore as well as between Dallas and Chattanooga.
You know what you are talking about. I was homeless with kids in a car (several years ago) I used Hotel parking lots, Walmart, 24 hour grocery stores, and the mall. We always looked clean,my children were fed, and we had bed times, etc. Washed clothes in 24 hour laundromat. A very humbling experience. My children are now young productive adults with amazing jobs. I thank the Lord for having places for us to eat & sleep safely.
You're a good mama! I'm 61, my parents were dirt poor. Growing up in difficult circumstances, in general, doesn't hurt kids. It makes them strong, tough & resilient. It teaches them about making good decisions, how to look at situations & get to the facts about that situation. While no parent would choose that experience for their kids, truth to tell, it's harder on the adults who are trying to negotiate things. Anyway, I wanted to tell you that you did real good. I hope your life is more comfortable now & that when you look at your kids you see how that experience shaped them into the fine grown ups they are today! Blessings
I've seen kids living in home that came to school dirty/dirty clothes, etc. You made a tough situation safe and made sure your kids were good. Of course they are productive adults now - great mom!
I'm pretty good financially now but one never knows. I'm watching all videos about sleepin in cars and rv's. It's something i will do if i start traveling around this country cuz i don't want to pay any hotel bills. lol
I work graveyards in a 24 hour convenience store. I am 63 and have been robbed three times on the job. I began letting a couple of homeless in car guys use our parking lot because anyone scoping us out never know if I am alone in the store or not. After watching security video's we saw that prior to 2 of the robberies, the same vehicles drove by a few times before they did the deed. Now I have 2 new aquaintances, they have a safe place to stay with access to bathroom facilities etc. One of the original gentleman that I let stay is no longer homeless but he still stops on his way home from work.......it works out nicely.
Great suggestion for police parking lot. While in Boston a few years ago, my family had a rental rv and was looking for a spot to park. If anyone knows about Boston, you know that parking is premium. As we settled at a location we thought was safe, a police officer pulled up around 2am and told us that things “happen” in the area. He told us to follow him to have a better parking spot. Low and behold he took us to the police station parking lot, told us we can stay until we are ready to leave, and wished us a good night. Hats off to Boston PD. By the way, we were a black family traveling through on our way to Nova Scotia. Thanks for your list.
An old geezer and his wife in an old camper stopped at my cottage and asked "is there a place around here to park for the night"? I said right over there my empty parking spot across the street with a view of the water. They never got out of the camper or made a sound. The next day he waved and drove off. It made me feel good helping a fellow geezer.I
As a single dad that raised three daughters, I used to park overnight in police station parking lot. That works excellent for me and we were never bothered by anyone.
I live in a bad area I need a car so bad but I'm worried about bringing it back to where I live for fear of someone doing something to it I'm so sick of where I live And the people here I'm considering getting my car and just packing my things up what I can in it and just leave.
@@youwish378I live in a small university town in Indiana, very reasonably priced ($675 for a 2 bedroom duplex) water and trash removal included, very safe area, and yes there are jobs
This is why I always keep my planet fitness membership. I would sleep in the parking lot and wake up in the morning , workout and shower. I’ve done this in plenty of cities . So it’s definitely worth getting the membership that allows you to go to any location.
@@chris_bcx I'm talking about when I was out of town I'm different cities and I didn't want to spend money on a hotel and of course it wasn't at the same location every night. And even if it was the same location I would always park away from everybody else. Remember it was at the locations to that were 24/7 so a car parked there doesn't draw any attention
Don't give up, my prayers were answered, I am old and homeless but a miracle happened, I received a 2 bedroom 40 ft camper..I am so happy, finally a roof over my head and still have my dogs. I am thankful.
I'm a security guard at a Marina part of my job is to keep people from parking overnight in our lot. I try to be understanding so I let some stay the night . A word is don't piss and shit in your backyard. I hate it when they leave trash it will ruin it for everyone
For a few years, I had a dog that allowed me to park and sleep anywhere. She slept while we were driving, and stayed awake while I was parked and sleeping. If anyone approached our car, she would give a quiet "woof" in my ear to wake me. We went on a three week, 4000 mile road trip and I never felt unsafe.
Yeah miss my Dog. He was my good buddy more than made up for the fact I couldn't get into some places. He would chew your nuts off if you touched my back pack that is where I kept our food. I was always afraid that a cop would shoot him. Because they do that you know. If they look like a pit bull.
I’ve worked in hotels most my life and I’m always amazed that people don’t think of hotels.. you can come in and use the lobby bathroom, drink coffee/tea and even grab the free breakfast if the hotel is busy enough. Remember, we don’t know who you’re staying with, we don’t know who checked you in or not before we arrived. Smaller hotels are more difficult cause we usually did know who we checked in and who they have staying with them but people check in alone, we don’t know whether or not they have a relative also.. bigger, busier hotels would be your best option. If anyone asks who you’re staying with just be vauge. Say my aunt is either staying here or on her way to check in, something like that.. nobody is gonna be rude about it cause we don’t want to get a bad review if we offend a guest or their relative.. lots of people walk around in pajamas in a hotel. Also, I’ve seen people respond that the hotels check license tags, not any hotel I’ve ever worked at. Sometimes we asked but it was only for instances like someone got blocked in and we need to know who to call to move their vehicle. Unless it’s a ritzy place nobody is gonna notice you. Also, come in through the lobby but exit through another door away from the lobby, that’ll make it look like you come in, then went to your room, plus we don’t get paid much, we prob don’t care even if we know you didn’t stay there as long as you’re respectful and not scary p
@@williambrucesanders6878 yes, always ask if that’s the best you can do.. in regards to price, mention you’re an aarp member or get friendly with a hotel employee and use their discount
@@Hackshots68 yeah if your hotel has security guards... that’s a diff story, none of mine have. A Marriott called the maintenance guy security but that was it.. dont try it somewhere that would have security guards.. after 12 pm there’s usually only one employee working.
The best place to sleep over night is a Truckstop. Believe it or not in a car or van its worth it :) Most of the bigger truckstops are like shopping malls with showers and movie rooms plus a resturant and many many things! Most of the bigger ones has securty to keep you safe and its great. Oh yea and washing machines for the dirty cloths to.
If you use flying j or pilot you can get a half of a shower credit for every 16 gallons of gas that you buy if you have the rewards card. Been mostly in my extended cab pick up truck since 2019.
I lived in my car for three months, and I spent every night at the same rest stop in Washington State. I moved the car each day, so I wasn't "camped" there, but I returned, every night, often parking in the same spot. No one ever questioned me about it. Fortunately, summers in western Washington or usually very mild, so sleeping in a car isn't uncomfortable. There were restrooms at the rest stop, and I could shower for 25 cents at a nearby truck stop. The local library kept me stocked with books, and I used computers there to look for work and check email. (After about 3 months, I landed a job in Seattle and moved in with a friend, until I could save enough to get my own apartment.)
I lived out of my Grand Caravan for 2 months after getting kicked out of my fiance's house (she had behavioral issues at the time and I was not abusive). I kept my job and most nights i slept in their parking lot but occasionally used the Wal-Mart lot across the road to keep from being pegged as an over-night camper. Also, the Wal-Mart was convenient for buying ready-to-eat food out of cans and the local Planet Fitness had shower access for $10/month. Pro-tip: if you're sleeping in a vehicle always find a way to elevate your feet. For the first few weeks I slept in the drivers seat and the swelling got bad enough that I could not wear shoes any more.
100% on the spot! I recently lived in my car for about a week and slept on the back seat. The first two days were hell precisely because I couldn't find enough room to stretch my legs. In fact, I didn't sleep at all the first night! But then I figured what the heck, I will raise my legs all the way to the front passenger seat and...what a releif! After that I slept well and even overslept one night!
My son went to Texas to work for 4 days. to save the hotel money he sleep in Planet Fitness parking lot. He has a membership with them here in Mississippi so he could go into the bathroom, shower could even work out if he wanted. Planet Fitness is open 24 hours in most cities.
As a truck driver I should also mention that most TA, Petro, and flying J stops have driver lounge areas that include a theatre area with comfy seats to watch TV or movies in, especially handy if it's really cold or really hot out.
@@NicardoSchumacher At truck stops you will see an area with comfortable chairs, usually near the paid showers. It is called a "Driver's Lounge". It isn't a bar "lounge".
Truck stops are a good choice. The drivers will not bother you and neither will the management unless you persist in parking your 16' long car in one of the 75' long tractor trailer spots. Truck parking at night is hard to come by and finding a car in a truck slot is sure to cause you trouble. Don't wander around the lot, especially women.
I love my local flying j always there I drive for a living but not trucks run my own transportation service but during down time or when waiting for calls I'm hanging there like my office almost
I almost forgot to mention that some churches actually prepare for people who need a place to park overnight. My church has a huge parking lot with one end that butts up against a wooded area. So we pay for a porta potty that’s placed out there and we let the local police know that if they come across someone sleeping in their car in a place that they aren’t supposed to that they can send them to our parking lot so they don’t get in trouble. Plus in the winter months we operate several warming stations that are usually for the homeless that don’t have a vehicle but we don’t turn anyone away. We provide food and separate bathrooms and showers for men and women and have security people to help out in case there’s trouble.
I currently rent a room in a house owned by My Church. My wife died in January and I was told I have to leave by spring. Me and My Dog. Have a vehicle but will most likely lose all My belongings I can't haul. I can't describe what I'm feeling. Afraid I'll eventually end up in trouble for breaking a law just trying to live.... 51 and disabled trying to keep the Faith .... Not much Hope
I didn’t realize how many people actually are sleeping in their cars. How many people are homeless? I didn’t realize times are so bad out there. I’ve been truly blessed to be able to have what I have. I think you just have to keep moving forward strive. I hope everybody gets blessings in their future, stay well
It's going to get more common as houses become even more insanely expensive. In the uk where I live houses are extortionate, more young adults are living with their parents compared to 50+ years ago.
The 24 hour gym is definitely one of the best places to sleep in your car overnight for 2 reasons. One, like you said they'll be gym members going in and out of the parking lot all night and 2, if you're a member of the gym, you have free access to not only the lockers and restroom areas, but you can workout and keep fit as well. Also, most gym have wifi/internet access for members and guests so yeah, fantastic option👍
I tried this in Sacramento, CA as a gym member. the fcking police ran my plates around 930pm for no reason. For Sale Houses, neighborhoods under construction are also good. and many have port o potties. Stay strong and safe and get through your tough times..
The most important part of any of these places is ... Do your pre bedtime routine before you get to where you're going. Meaning, stop some place before one of these places and do all the things you need to do to be ready for bed, brush your teeth, get your bed ready, whatever it is do it somewhere else, then leave there and go to one of these places. That way, when you arrive, you just get into your sleeping bag and that's it.
Great suggestions -Several of which I had not heard or thought of before! It’s time for a mind shift, America. Living “house less” does not necessarily mean homeless encampments and needles on the street. It can mean clean, industrious people who choose to live in a vehicle for a myriad of reasons. Saving a ton of money in a short period of time is just one of them…
been a vehicle dweller 35 years out of 61 years... never wished for a "house". I've worked my whole life, raised a wonderful person and am very happy. You have hang ups
Can I tell you a nice story from 80 in England ,I was itch hiking the 120 milles from blackpool to market Drayton ,sisters army base I got a nice lift from blackpool ,but set off bit late got most of the way ,but dropped at this junction a53 towards Shrewsbury sisters on way ,so I wandered into a truck garage asked them for a lift ,they said we can get you back to blackpool were you come from 😂, said no anyway went back into garage and it was empty ,so I jumped in a truck with a bunk went to sleep ,this is 30 yrs ago I. Morning they woke me around 8 am ,with breakfast with tea toust no problems at all ,they let me have breakfast and the go on my way thanks 😂
I worked at a place were a co-worker got divorce and he stay in the parking lot. They even gave him 24/7 hours to the building. This went on for 4 years until he moved to the west coast.
I knew a guy who lived out of his car in Vegas and worked out regularly at the gym in where he'd use the showers and bathroom for $10 a month. This 24 hr gym had no security so he slept like a baby. You would never know he was homeless because he was muscular, healthy had good hygiene and drove a fairly decent car.
Camp grounds are free if you go in the camp ground after they close. Then you can pick a site and use their facilities. Just vacate the site about 7:00 am. It worked great for me.
As I biker that crosses statelines and timezones, I usually sleep on my bike when I dont take my lady on road trips with me. My top choice is the Loves truck stop or T&A truck stops. They are well lit enough for safety, dark enough to sleep, dont mind you sleeping there and have showers and washer and dryers.
I found truck stops to be welcoming. Just find a spot away from the noise. Good to have a bathroom available at night. Large rest areas have worked. There is one on I-40 about 40 miles east of Memphis that has people sleeping overnight but is large enough to not be overcrowded.
@@mkpshay Definitely don't wanna actually sleep in Memphis. My club brothers said when we visit from out of town we're advised to not get gas after 9pm
I know a guy who lived in his car for three years, took a shower at a public gym every day lived off their free bottles of complementary water, panhandled to buy a meal every day and today he is healthy, living in a nice home with a wife and three kids!
One thing to remember is to leave the area as clean or cleaner than you left it. More of these areas will be willing to allow you to park there if we keep it clean.
Funny you said about auto repair shops. I used to work at an auto dealership for over 20 years in the service department, so we had many people dropping their cars off at night and using the 'early bird' envelopes to drop their keys in, lock their cars and go home. I've use Auto Dealership Service Department parking many times. If anyone asks what I'm doing, I tell them I'm a traveler, and I'm waiting for the dealership to open because my vehicle needs some work. Works every time. Never had a problem.
Good advice Timothy I used a hospital parking lot for a month several times I watched where most employees parked it wasn't designated employee parking It was very safe. I parked 30min before a shift started once in a while I stayed through 2 shifts especially in bad weather. When a shift ended i left. My stay was always safe I never got out of my car. Before I arrived I always ate and used the bathroom. After that I used the toilet in my minivan and ate if I was hungry. Once a snowstorm came overnight. Security cleaned the snow off cars mine included never knew someone was inside
Church, yes :). Years ago on a cold winter night I took a wrong exit, got lost and ended up in a church parking lot off Hwy 71 in Fouke, Arkansas. Though fearful but pulled in anyway because it was relatively lit. Half an hour/45 minutes later a man tapped on the window, asked if he could help. Invited me in, offered coffee, cake. For some reason there were a few people in there at that late hour. We got to talking and when they learnt where I was originally from, they, unusually elated, lead me to their book/literature section to show me they have material I could read in my language - yes, in Urdu :) I learnt I was the first Urdu speaking person that had come by in all the years they've had books on Christianity in Urdu. They send material to missionaries in many different countries in local languages. Amazing, unforgettable experience.
Great video. I would add that keeping your ID current will be a HUGE help. If you frequent casinos I'd get their players card, emails, etc. Could be useful if you're ever approached. If you're at a casino and security officer asks you anything, if you open your wallet and they see a players card and a valid ID you are golden.
A lot of laundry mats are open 24 hours so that’s a great option. I used to take my electronics in there to charge them and use my coffee pot. When you’re living in your car, take advantage of free electricity. Parks also sometimes have outlets.
If you just want to sleep then you can park at any Auto Parts Store. If the Cops say anything to you, then just tell them that you need a quart of oil, and that your waiting for the place to open.
Timothy...Awesome list man. In the 1980s I was homeless no less than 8+ times. Wasn't the best time in my life. I can relate to a lot of your list. This video will help more people then you will ever meet in your life time. On their behalf...Thank You.
Thank you so much! We traveled across the country twice with up to 3 cats and a little dog and had to sleep in the truck many times to save money, our favorite overnight parking spots were Walmart parking lots, and truck stops along the Trans Canada Highway. We also stayed at a campground for a month. We had a small tent but usually slept in the truck for safety reasons. GOD bless you all.
GENIUS with the emergency room!!! I slept in my vehicle for a month or two. I was very fortunate that it was Infront of my sister's house 😂. Just like you said I WAS CHILLING, infact I kinda liked it. I guess only because I was in a Conversion Van with a bed in the back and wi-fi. I still got that van to this day, upgraded with solar panels and TV. So if that Shit-uation ever happens again I'M READY. I Hope. I don't care how smart or clever you think you are, stuff happens in life that you just can't control. We are ALL just one paycheck away from being homeless. Trust in GOD AND STAY SAFE. Keep your heads up Brothah's and Sistah's.
I once, parked in an auto dealer parking lot. I backed into a space between 2 vehicles. It was brightly lit, with security cameras, and had surrounding traffic most of the night. I slept great in my mini-van. Next morning, as I left, a couple of employees waved to me as I was leaving, with smiles on their faces.
I have a few for rural locations. Trailhead parking. Some trails are where people leave their cars while hiking. Important to remember that not all allow overnight camping! Another is National Forests. It is legal to camp in a National Forest if you are not breaking any posted parking/camping rules. Your car MUST have all wheels off the traveled portion of the road. You can never block any gate no matter how seldom it looks like it's used! The same rules apply for National Grasslands, which are great places to stop on a cross country road trip.
SHOWER TIP: Truckers nearly always get free showers for filling up a certain #/$ amount of fuel. Lots of times they accrue them faster than they use them. I worked for a truck stop and saw them donate showers to people who wanted/needed them all the time. Which is great b/c showers are like $12-15 each now.
I use those spare shower tickets! For the last 15 months the only time I’ve paid for a shower was because in the desert where I was there were no truck stops and only one place for showers at a gas station, which was $2. In blessed. That is $17 saved each time.
As an ex tow truck driver one thing you didn't mention that can apply to many of these places is posted signs for towing .. if your sleeping and especially stealth and hard to see now days with most automated tow trucks they can hook you up without leaving the cab in a minute or two before you are fully awake and understand what is happening though they cannot tow you if your in the car they can charge you half the tow fee to release the vehicle and police will back them up on that as it is usually in the tow laws .. so always look for tow signs and allowed parking times ... I dont know about all cities but it is a common rule there must be signs visible before you can be towed.
GTOger channel's "drumbeats" started playing through my mind the moment I began to read your comment. Who would have thought a channel dedicated to towing away cars could be so interesting?!
Im thinking of joining Vanlife in the next few months just because im tired of paying High Rent and the info ive read on here has been Very Helpful. Thank You 😁
I lived in Delaware, and used to go to Baltimore and DC every weekend. I stopped at the toll plaza at the Bay Bridge so often for the bathroom and a quick nap in the car, that the guy that worked there set up a sleeping pad and a pillow and blanket for me to nap inside. He was worried that it was too cold. What a sweetie.
Don't forget you can stay all day in a public library. Anyone can walk in to use the bathrooms without asking. Don't worry about nodding off in a chair or at the study carrels...just so long as you aren't laying down on their couch passed out. Do look like you have a purpose for being there. Have papers, books, magazines etc. near you. If you sit there looking at your phone all day they don't care either.
At a table in the library. I was on my laptop, and just so tired that I fell asleep. While I was sleeping a small crowd had gathered around. They thought I was dead!
I just overcame 6 years of homelessness last year. I heavily vouch for this list. I never thought about hospital/emergency areas though. Very nice. Great information for those in need ✊🏿💯🔥
@@lindsaywells5225 Exacltly! I am sick of giving $ to LLs that keep rzg rent....simple 1 BR not worth it! Parking lot is mud and they won't add gravel. He owns thousands of Apts around the country and is socking it to people. And if one owns a house the property taxes are ridiculous!! 17:02
I did this also at a very hard point in my life. I worked constantly but still couldn't afford a place to live. Taxes and child support took pretty much everything. I didn't drink smoke or do any drugs but I did pay for a powerhouse gym membership where I could shower and brush my teeth etc while I was there. I didn't pay much for the membership either like 200 a year paid in full. I slept in neighborhoods between my shift in my toyota pickup truck but I didn't have tinted windows so this limited me to where I could sleep without drawing suspicion of people in neighborhoods etc. Best advice I can give to someone in that situation is swallow your pride and ask for help from friends and family that cares about you and don't bite the hands that feed. Be humble, grateful and focused and eventually things will work out for the better. Remember our struggles are what make us stronger, better and more disciplined in the long run. Stay strong and pray. Life does get better.
I was homeless for a few yrs. I lived under a casino parking garage.. this saved my life. I got plenty of exercise walking inside, free buffet (after spending money I shouldn’t have) I could use the bathrooms, pool and showers.. the free drinks and bells and whistles were also helpful to keep my mind off the current situation also made some friends. The laundry mat also saved me from freezing. I’d do laundry overnight then sleep in my van early morning once the sun was coming out. I’ve parked in hotel lots and near stores and restaurants. I was woke up by police a couple times. My van was full of stuff without tinted windows so it was hard to park and not be noticed in my small town. It was tough sometimes finding a safe place where I wouldn’t be bothered. You’ve shared some good ideas. I pray that I’m never homeless again. Ohh one more crazy idea.. I rented a storage unit that allowed access 24/7. I’d pull in late at night. Sleep in the van or inside the storage unit which I had a bed. This was ok for spring time. No one ever questioned or bothered me. Some Uhaul storage units have electricity. It was me and the loud seagulls 😢 Sad times though I survived.
Great video, Timothy! Thank you!🙏🏻 Having lived in our RV full time for seven years, I can validate most of your recommendations!😃 There are a couple of things that you need to know if you’re planning on venturing north of the border to Canada (AKA CHINADA nowadays🙄). Hotel parking won’t work, whether day or nighttime, as the hotels here keep and track your license plate, and they WILL tow your vehicle away if you’re not a registered guest, ALWAYS, and they may fine you too! In Canada, donut shops, like Tim Hortons, are a great place to sleep overnight, and they always have free wifi too (as do hospitals, Subway franchises, and most grocery stores), so you can snuggle up and stream whatever you’re subscribed to (like Netflix, Apple TV, and UA-cam etc). Too, donut shops are nearly always crime free, as policemen frequent them regularly, and often for hours at a time, and they couldn’t care less about who is or isn’t parked there. I used to be married to a ‘cop,’ and their motto is: ‘A good policeman never gets cold, wet, or hungry!’ Most cops will do just about anything to avoid unnecessary paperwork (writing reports), so people sleeping in their cars isn’t something they want to be bothered with… generally speaking!😉 Another very important point is that you must keep your vehicle CLEAN! A shiny, well-kept car or van, regardless of the age of it, will not draw unwanted attention to itself. Humans are programmed to accept clean and tidy cars and houses etc, so you will not be equated with either a homeless person and/or a drug addict. People feel safe around ‘clean and tidy’ anythings. That goes for your personal grooming too. Make sure that you too are clean and tidy, with a decent hairstyle. Looks matter, and the first glance at you and/or your vehicle is going to determine what people think and feel. It’s human nature. No matter where you are, a smile is the best accessory you can wear (and it’s free)! People LIKE happy, friendly people😃! That too is well-researched and established fact. Last point (for now): if you find that there’s trash (paper and plastic etc) around the parking spot you want to use, put on a pair of rubber gloves and tidy up the area near you (not just your own parking spot). Often security guards in mall parking lots will let you stay there regardless of the mall’s usual policy. A clean car, a clean you, a nice smile and friendly conversation, not to mention your unsolicited cleanup efforts will make you welcome just about anywhere. I find it helps tremendously to have a small assortment of freshly-baked cookies or donuts to offer to security personnel, be they cops or civilians. Very few people will turn down freshly-baked goods, and if you have a can of pop to go with them, so much the better.😉 Just a few tips from my own experience. Love and All Good Things, Jesse.🌹
I like the campgrounds. I had a Volvo station wagon that was perfect for sleeping in on the road. The campgrounds have the showers and charcoal grills. Perfect for cross country road trips.
Another good one is Amazon warehouses, they are open 24h and there’s always people coming in and leaving since lots of workers have overnight shifts and parking lots tend to be rather large and you can find your little spot in a corner.
It might work for a day but best to park near other cars. Go in when employees go in if it’s gated or else guards might ask to show your badge. Employees have about an hour or so to leave once shift is over.
Best place nationwide is a ACE Hardware parking lot. They have a policy of no offense, and if any deputy dog ask you what your there for, just tell them your traveling and need some items from the store when it opens. Over 10,000 locations. Always in small towns, and normally near things you may need.
@@pilarq7886 If even used, they will post the signs of NO TRASSPASSING inside the window glass, not outside which defines the public space outward ( parking lots) as no offense areas. ACE Hardware uses common parking rules in almost every free standing store in the USA, most all adjoined stores that are not in but next to another store, and they will not support a customer being ticketed for staying on the parking lots with "intention" to buy items upon store hours. SO, you have committed NO OFFENSE to be removed or ticketed while waiting on the store to open. And since most close at 7 pm, open at 8 am, this is premium space to temp in while traveling.
I appreciate you getting straight into your list. This us great, well-researched info. I live in a neighborhood where street campers park in front of my house nearly every day. I always offer 3 days of emergency shelter. When some overstay their welcome, you have provided a really helpful list if places for me to suggest. 👏
A tip for parking at Walmart overnight. Don’t park way out at the end of the parking lot with the other overnighters. Park a bit closer to the store and cover your windows so people can’t look in and see you. You won’t stick out so much
I live in Arizona and rest areas are really the safest and most legal way to sleep in your car. You can buy magnetic blinds that go over Windows because one of the things people don't think about before they go and do something like this is how to keep the light out of your car so you can actually sleep. Go ahead and skip that back seat mattress that inflates because it's useless in the long run. You're better off grabbing a bunch of blankets and going old school like you're making a bed up on the couch. Definitely invest in a windshield reflector to keep the sun (and prying eyes) out. For $20 a month I have a membership to all of the planet fitness memberships in the valley (more or less) but it's an easy and convenient place to use the restroom and not feel like you're in a hurry or going to get mugged, and you can take a shower and take your time and not feel like you're about to get F'd with by the next weirdo that walks in. I always keep a couple of big styrofoam cups around and you need to protect them so they don't break because when you're out of money you can at least find ice and water somewhere so you don't dehydrate. You're going to get used to living off the dollar menu but every once in awhile go by ampm or somewhere similar and get yourself a banana and a apple so you have some type of nutrition as well as empty calories to survive off of- this is not an easy Life to live. For $50 a month I have access to UA-cam through my phone so I really don't have to pay for entertainment other than that, and believe me you too has a ton of entertainment to keep you occupied and keep your mind off of the fact that life sort of sucks right now.
Fast food is 50% white, worthless bread, and the price is Over $12 a pound !! Besides the water, drinks are diabetes and cavity - making sugar water poison. The selection in the grocery store is a thousand times bigger, plenty nutritious and around $3 or $4 a pound.
@@senatorjosephmccarthy2720 Good point. If people realized the utter waste, physical damage that fast food causes to the body, AND the high cost; if they really faced the reality of that, they'd quit eating it forever, imo. To me, it's another greed factory that produces harmful products and misleading advertising simply to make $$$$$$$$$$$.
This makes me sad..because it's not going to get any better..we all are a paycheck away from being houseless..our beautiful souls always have a home..I am manifesting a hundred acres for good people that are houseless..as the messenger of my GOD and the book of Revelation..this is the Endgame..this is my GOD'S PLAN a time of separating the good from the bad..some of you perhaps all of you are the CHOSEN ONES..of my GOD..we are the black sheep in the biological family..misfits..we are. I'm working on a solution..I am going to checkout BML..I would love to have land were you can at least park and have peace. My oldest son passed from this place that I call Hell..a place of pain suffering and sorrow..he was homeless..schizophrenia etc..he passed January 11,2022. My heart goes out to the homeless. I love you. I am the Ambassador of Love.Hope.Faith.
Years ago, during my night clubbing days....I would park in front of the Police Station, alarm on, to sleep an hour or two...to be sure my 2 drinks had not taken me " over the limit".... Cops never bothered me..luckily, as I did not have my license at the time.. One time I locked my keys in handbag, on front seat....the Sgt on duty grabbed a coat hanger and broke into my car for me! Saw my cover, marked " license", did not even bother to look at it! Whew!
@@lisajoyaslanis YOU REALY EXPOSED THAT NO MATTER WHAT WOMEN WILL BE TREATED DIFFERENT. IM GLAD YOU DIDNT GET INTO ANY TROUBLE I WOULD"NT BEEN THAT LUCKY. IM 59 YRS OLD AND I HAVE A LOT OF DWBB STORIES DWBB = DRIVING WHILE BEING BLACK.
@@owensdaniels6244 This was at home, in Australia....generally women are not held in very high esteem, but a " Public Servant" does not wish to find a complaint against him.. Our cops.. Or our laws,are pretty strict, I was pulled over twice in 10 minutes, for a tail light not working...but had paper work from the first stop, explaining. ..it was the practice, back then to allow a driver up to one week to have a repair undertaken ...SO much has changed over 50 years or so! Thanks for your reply...had just stumbled upon your channel.... Thank you so much!
The beach is a great option too. Park your car and rock a beach bonfire, with a pallet. Just another way to stretch out, after sleeping in a car for a few weeks. They also have showers.
This was what I did off and on through my journey of being homeless because my healthcare took every dime I had. Thanks for some I never thought of. Being a woman, your top ten were my life savers.
This nation is insane.Every 1 is living in captivity.Modern day slavery.U punch in a clock can't leave till they say,while u work 2 make CEO's rich.Be ur own boss as soon as possible gorgeous
8 years living in a vehicle for me. If you ever get a repair done. Save the mirror tag with the number on it. Park at an auto repair place, like Goodyear or Firestone, put the repair number tag on your mirror. To deter theft of your vehicle, write, “Failed starter - on backorder” in a black sharpie on the tag. Big enough so thieves will think it is pointless to try and steal it. Always leave at least an hour before they open. But it also keeps the cops from even thinking you are sleeping inside.
I drove from Sacramento to Dallas recently. I think most of your suggestions are if you're trying to stick to a zip code. Rest stops are where it's at. The ones with vending machines are annoying, but they have spaces at the edges. For motels, you want to stagger your stay with shifts. It's a strategy that works elsewhere...don't be present the entire shift of a watcher. Stagger it. You're living alternatively, modify your clock to match. Being confused about the time will help you appear to be lost. That's not a crime.
Another thing to consider, depending on your circumstances and environment, is becoming nocturnal. I don't drive, but I have been stuck sleeping outside before. One trick that's worked for me during the day in nice weather was to lay in the grass next to a library or college, with my face on an open book, and pretend to have fallen asleep while reading. As long as you're reasonably clean, having a backpack with you doesn't look out of place either, and I felt much safer sleeping in the broad daylight.
I lived out of my van for two years voluntarily and working full time. I still miss the freedom and minimalism. Great video with very real and relevant info.
@@Ashley-og9ti It's actually more expensive in many places to "live" out of your car, many people don't know this, but if you're voluntarily living out of your car and traveling anywhere you wish, the gas will be brutal and even more than what is spent on rent, I know it has been for me. But I travel all across the country, hence the term voluntarily.
Passing thru small town in Utah, stopped next to a horse trailer and went to ring the bell to ask if it was ok to sleep in the car infront of their property and I got a yes. I also got pancakes and great stories.. I think I left early in the morning to get a coffee and toilet.. another place where I stopped and asked if I could sleep infront of the house I was told to pull on the drive way/ yard and I was fed too. Super nice old couple in Texas. And last- day before Tetons NP season started I pulled to their parking lot and started talking with a man, turned out he was the manager and bc the park wasn't officially open yet I was ok to sleep in the lot.. he also asked if I wanted anything to eat or drink and took me inside with the other crew- there's this and that- help yourself. I got brekky too! I experienced mind-blowing kindness in so many places. It's funny how strangers treat you nicer tfan the ones who know you. Thank you for everyone who is kind for people in need ❤
I have a Ford Fiesta, so i parked one night at a dealership, I parked ($) at a Mall , ate dinner, saw the latest movie possible after shops closed, brushed my teeth in ladies room so I would not be late for an interview in DC when I lived in NorthVA, next day used ladies room freshen up for my interview then drove home afterwards...why pay for a DC hotel and I didn’t get the job...Timothy these are great ideas and I even parked in the lot near the convent of a private Catholic School! Sovereign God of protection.
Storage unit facilities work great too. Years back I rented an outside parking spot for boats, rv, trailers etc at a storage unit facility. It cost me $60 a month. I had privacy and felt safe cause it was all fenced in with a gate at the entrance.
This should be his #26, My husband and I asked to use an RV one on a country road when travelling and had a good night’s sleep there before moving on again…and talked to someone at a truck stop once who had arranged with a similar place to do it for a reasonable price for a month.
Ask a friend or relative if you can park in their driveway. But you can't stay all day but a safe place for the night. Never forget to lock your doors.
Good input ! Used some of these places when I worked a long ways from home and was working a lot of overtime , or the weather was just real bad , money for gas to get home was also an issue sometimes, even working the overtime. Some of the places you mentioned I had not thought of . When one of my sons bought an old large fishing boat he happened to berth it at a marina near where I worked and gave me all the security codes . That was pure luxury sleeping on the boat . And once in a while he would work on the boat remotely with his laptop so I would get a chance to see him , we both had very busy schedules.
Good list with a few exceptions. City and neighborhood PARKS are one of the BEST places to stay overnight. Usually there is parking available on the street or lot of a park. Those are fifty percent of my overnight stays. And remember, take No-thing for granted, stay as legal as possible, clean up your crap, and help pick up a bit around your immediate stay area as a small gratitude for being allowed to sleep safely in your vehicle in that spot. The carelessness in leaving garbage behind is one main reason why businesses don't allow overnighting. Thanks again and stay well.
Bank parking lot. Light, security. Just leave before staff arrives. Outside the fence at dog pound. Anyone comes too close, you got an early warning system.
A less expensive way to get indoors sooner: rent an office in a busy office complex. Make sure it's busy enough that nobody complains when you go in and out at all hours. If u look around, you'll find office space with free heat, a/c, electric, bathroom, etc. Get a mini fridge, hotplate, microwave, and toaster. You might need to certify your business name with your county first, which typically cost a one time administrative fee of $25 to $40. Good luck!
I and other's have had overworked and under slept times.. And it's pretty scary when you are droopy eyed behind the wheel with falling asleep nagging you. These are great solutions to get you off the road, safely!
Hospital/ emergency room parking lots are the best. Also if there are any 24 hr urgent care places . You are the only person I’ve heard mention hospitals . They are the best in my opinion .
It has not been my experience that hospitals are good places to sleep. They’re called security guards. If you’re not visiting someone, or a patient yourself, then no, you cannot sleep in hospital parking lots.
As a female, I think the police station parking lot sounds the safest as long as they allow it. I am not in the situation where I need to sleep in my car yet, but the way apartments are being bought up by developers, huge unaffordable rents going up and up, people being given 30 days to move out, I live in anxious fear that it could happen to me at any time. It's good to read all the good advice in this video and know what to expect if and when the horror happens.
Thanks for sharing this because its apart off life and people are being forced to live in their cars 🚗 and vans every day now and this imfo is important to know.
If you're going to sleep in your car and don't want to be found out, make sure you apply Anti-fog to all of your interior glass. If your windows are fogged, guess which car the No-sleep police will target!
26. Airport parking. 27. Cemeteries. 28. Forest Service land if you move every 16 days more than five miles from where you were. Never sleep in seats, sleep flat in cold weather especially subzero. Avoid the cold sink of floor boards. Straw is the old human insulator from before there were homes. You don't need heat, but you do need fat, carbs, and calories since you are the fuel. Mittens and not gloves. Screw top pee bottles. Screw top plastic coffee buckets like Maxwell House for the ladies. Crack your window to avoid foggy windows. Take clothes off once warm inside sleeping cell, but keep clothes in that cell. Place coat over head. Wear a warm lose hat too. Shame is for homeowners who don't get out.
Excellent advice for cold weather. I'm not homeless, but I camp in my car. If you have 60/40 split seats, you can keep a couple of lounge cushions behind the seat, then pull down the 60% wide side, and extend the cushions into a bed. This keeps you off the floor, warm, and a couple of blankets over top, and you should be comfortable through the night. Wearing a touque (knit hat), or a bush hat, keeps your forehead covered and keeps most of your heat, in you. I've slept in -10°/-15°C (15°/5°F) and been OK. (ps. make sure one of the few blankets is WOOL)🙂
ALWAYS, always, keep your doors locked when sleeping in your car! -- One time in Cherry Hill, NJ, I was sleeping in a motel parking lot, in the back, and about 5am, someone was knocking on my window, and trying to open my car door. Didn't wait around to find out who it was and I ASSUME it was security, but I started my car and drove off.
I’ve been sleeping at Walmart the last 4 nights. There’s a section at the end of the parking lot where a lot of rvs park. There’s quite a lot of other people sleeping in their cars near me. Security patrols intermittently throughout the night and I haven’t seen them bother anybody yet
I feel so lucky that right now I'm watching this from the comfort of my apartment as I think about taking a week long car camping adventure. To anyone watching who isn't so lucky as to have a choice, my thoughts are with you. I'm sorry we live in a society where having a home isn't a basic right.
Having a home isn’t a basic right. Religious and political freedoms, pursuit of happiness (and a free education, by the way) are basic rights. Using that free education to get a job and earn the money necessary to get a home is the right thing to do. Get off of your liberal guilt trip and learn to give others a helping hand, not a hand out.
Hello Kitty is absolutely right. These freeloader wanna be types like Monica & Shirley think other people are their enslaved housing providers. Demanding things you haven't earned isn't Christianity, it's just low down stealing. And civilization is based on judgements, not on leeching off other peoples' efforts. Just 'cause Monica & Shirley are too skanky now to match the competition at their favorite truckstop, the world owes them a house. No effen way!
![Lp. Сердце Вселенной #1 НАЧАЛО ПУТЕШЕСТВИЯ [Новый сезон] • Майнкрафт](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/380Q7gLWGvk/mqdefault.jpg)
My brother was living in his van in Dallas back around 1975. He'd often have to move once or twice a night after getting rousted by the cops. One night he met a girl at a party and was talking to her about his problems finding a good place to park for the night. "You can park in front of my house!" she said. So that night, he he parked in front of her house. In the morning, she brought him coffee. The next night she invited him inside. The next year, they got married, and they're still married 47 years later.
Ah, the 70s. Good times. I was a kid then but remember all the hitch hikers too back then.
This is so sweet 🥹
That’s a fantastic story, even if made up lol😂
@@cjasgill1 True story. They have three kids, and a bunch of grandkids. I lived in that house for awhile after they moved out. A bungalow built in 1913 in the Swiss Avenue Historic District.
@@aleks1939 I did a lot of hitch hiking back then. It was the most natural thing to just stick out your thumb if you wanted to get somewhere. Mostly local, but also several trips back and forth between Dallas and Baltimore as well as between Dallas and Chattanooga.
You know what you are talking about. I was homeless with kids in a car (several years ago) I used Hotel parking lots, Walmart, 24 hour grocery stores, and the mall. We always looked clean,my children were fed, and we had bed times, etc. Washed clothes in 24 hour laundromat. A very humbling experience. My children are now young productive adults with amazing jobs. I thank the Lord for having places for us to eat & sleep safely.
You're a good mama! I'm 61, my parents were dirt poor. Growing up in difficult circumstances, in general, doesn't hurt kids. It makes them strong, tough & resilient. It teaches them about making good decisions, how to look at situations & get to the facts about that situation. While no parent would choose that experience for their kids, truth to tell, it's harder on the adults who are trying to negotiate things. Anyway, I wanted to tell you that you did real good. I hope your life is more comfortable now & that when you look at your kids you see how that experience shaped them into the fine grown ups they are today! Blessings
I've seen kids living in home that came to school dirty/dirty clothes, etc. You made a tough situation safe and made sure your kids were good. Of course they are productive adults now - great mom!
Bless you for keeping your head, and managing the care of your children in the best way you could.
I'm pretty good financially now but one never knows. I'm watching all videos about sleepin in cars and rv's. It's something i will do if i start traveling around this country cuz i don't want to pay any hotel bills. lol
Amen. He's got us.
Love how you wasted no time and just went into it. Thumbsed up and subscribed
❤❤❤❤❤🎉
Good ol' Gen X / Xennials got no time for nonsense.
Me too
I have one to add, car rental places, most people leave their vehicle at that facility while renting a car.
I work graveyards in a 24 hour convenience store. I am 63 and have been robbed three times on the job. I began letting a couple of homeless in car guys use our parking lot because anyone scoping us out never know if I am alone in the store or not. After watching security video's we saw that prior to 2 of the robberies, the same vehicles drove by a few times before they did the deed. Now I have 2 new aquaintances, they have a safe place to stay with access to bathroom facilities etc. One of the original gentleman that I let stay is no longer homeless but he still stops on his way home from work.......it works out nicely.
Great idea!
Brilliant idea. Be safe. So those people helped.you.stay safe
Brilliant,every convenience store ought do this
Good hearted woman, you are ....
Smart and a good deed win win
To all staying in their cars. Stay strong, keep going , don’t give up, don’t lose hope; things can get better.
Amen
@@ruthmccurdy8623 Amen I hope you both have a good life
Amen
🙏🙏🙏
Only if you make it better.
Times have really gotten bad, you would be surprised how many people are sleeping in their cars!
Randomly pops up in my feed again. I'm in a way better place now but when I was homeless living out of my car your video helped immensely. Thank you
Glad to hear you are doing better 👍🏾
Same! I was homeless living in my car earlier this year, but not the case anymore
Great suggestion for police parking lot. While in Boston a few years ago, my family had a rental rv and was looking for a spot to park. If anyone knows about Boston, you know that parking is premium. As we settled at a location we thought was safe, a police officer pulled up around 2am and told us that things “happen” in the area. He told us to follow him to have a better parking spot. Low and behold he took us to the police station parking lot, told us we can stay until we are ready to leave, and wished us a good night. Hats off to Boston PD. By the way, we were a black family traveling through on our way to Nova Scotia.
Thanks for your list.
It is kind of like the "Green Pages" Black Families used them to identify where they could stay and travel safely by car.
Nice!! I'm a Black Bostonian and my dad a Native is from Nova Scotia.
@@lovebrown8540 Novia Scotia is a lovely place.
Did the officer ask you a bunch of questions before you went to the police department and yes I do agree he was very nice to allow you to go there
In Boston lol wow what a surprise
An old geezer and his wife in an old camper stopped at my cottage and asked "is there a place around here to park for the night"? I said right over there my empty parking spot across the street with a view of the water. They never got out of the camper or made a sound. The next day he waved and drove off. It made me feel good helping a fellow geezer.I
Ur good peoples man god bless
Was his wife still in the car or did she have to take an unplanned swim.
L@@glennso47
You Geezers are awesome people! 👍
Bless you
As a single dad that raised three daughters, I used to park overnight in police station parking lot. That works excellent for me and we were never bothered by anyone.
Did they know?
Likely asked and was granted permission especially having three young children with him. Very smart decision for safety!
U must be white...no offense..they would lock a black person up call it neglect an call cps
You are very good Dad.
Yt privilege. They aren't gonna allow that for most people.
I’ve been thinking about this so I can pay off debt, save money, and eat less, work out more, be outdoors.
I live in a bad area
I need a car so bad but I'm worried about bringing it back to where I live for fear of someone doing something to it
I'm so sick of where I live
And the people here
I'm considering getting my car and just packing my things up what I can in it and just leave.
@@youwish378I live in a small university town in Indiana, very reasonably priced ($675 for a 2 bedroom duplex) water and trash removal included, very safe area, and yes there are jobs
If you can do it safely, it actually seems like a good idea.
We can do it together I'll Make sure your safe ❤
You can do all that without being homeless lol
This is why I always keep my planet fitness membership. I would sleep in the parking lot and wake up in the morning , workout and shower. I’ve done this in plenty of cities . So it’s definitely worth getting the membership that allows you to go to any location.
U park there every night and nobody care?
@@chris_bcx I'm talking about when I was out of town I'm different cities and I didn't want to spend money on a hotel and of course it wasn't at the same location every night. And even if it was the same location I would always park away from everybody else. Remember it was at the locations to that were 24/7 so a car parked there doesn't draw any attention
@@chris_bcx I do this
Smart
@@lisawallace921 are u a van dweller too?
I pray that everyone has a safe warm place to sleep
Ditto
Amen.
That's an unrealistic thing to ask
Keep praying. I think it’s working. 🙄 people need more than thoughts and prayers. What’s really going on?
Don't give up, my prayers were answered, I am old and homeless but a miracle happened, I received a 2 bedroom 40 ft camper..I am so happy, finally a roof over my head and still have my dogs. I am thankful.
I'm a security guard at a Marina part of my job is to keep people from parking overnight in our lot. I try to be understanding so I let some stay the night . A word is don't piss and shit in your backyard. I hate it when they leave trash it will ruin it for everyone
Thank you brother for giving nomadic people survival skills.
For a few years, I had a dog that allowed me to park and sleep anywhere. She slept while we were driving, and stayed awake while I was parked and sleeping. If anyone approached our car, she would give a quiet "woof" in my ear to wake me. We went on a three week, 4000 mile road trip and I never felt unsafe.
woof...woof!
Smart amazing Dog
Love this! 💕
Sounds like a great dog
Yeah miss my Dog. He was my good buddy more than made up for the fact I couldn't get into some places. He would chew your nuts off if you touched my back pack that is where I kept our food. I was always afraid that a cop would shoot him. Because they do that you know.
If they look like a pit bull.
I’ve worked in hotels most my life and I’m always amazed that people don’t think of hotels.. you can come in and use the lobby bathroom, drink coffee/tea and even grab the free breakfast if the hotel is busy enough. Remember, we don’t know who you’re staying with, we don’t know who checked you in or not before we arrived. Smaller hotels are more difficult cause we usually did know who we checked in and who they have staying with them but people check in alone, we don’t know whether or not they have a relative also.. bigger, busier hotels would be your best option. If anyone asks who you’re staying with just be vauge. Say my aunt is either staying here or on her way to check in, something like that.. nobody is gonna be rude about it cause we don’t want to get a bad review if we offend a guest or their relative.. lots of people walk around in pajamas in a hotel. Also, I’ve seen people respond that the hotels check license tags, not any hotel I’ve ever worked at. Sometimes we asked but it was only for instances like someone got blocked in and we need to know who to call to move their vehicle. Unless it’s a ritzy place nobody is gonna notice you. Also, come in through the lobby but exit through another door away from the lobby, that’ll make it look like you come in, then went to your room, plus we don’t get paid much, we prob don’t care even if we know you didn’t stay there as long as you’re respectful and not scary p
Go on im listing . Any info on getting a room real cheap? I'm needing to do this
@@williambrucesanders6878 yes, always ask if that’s the best you can do.. in regards to price, mention you’re an aarp member or get friendly with a hotel employee and use their discount
@@BrandyTexas214 ty
I've unfortunately have had some security guards run me off of hotel lots before.
@@Hackshots68 yeah if your hotel has security guards... that’s a diff story, none of mine have. A Marriott called the maintenance guy security but that was it.. dont try it somewhere that would have security guards.. after 12 pm there’s usually only one employee working.
Nuring homes and Assisted living homes is a great place too
The best place to sleep over night is a Truckstop. Believe it or not in a car or van its worth it :) Most of the bigger truckstops are like shopping malls with showers and movie rooms plus a resturant and many many things! Most of the bigger ones has securty to keep you safe and its great. Oh yea and washing machines for the dirty cloths to.
If you use flying j or pilot you can get a half of a shower credit for every 16 gallons of gas that you buy if you have the rewards card.
Been mostly in my extended cab pick up truck since 2019.
I lived in my car for three months, and I spent every night at the same rest stop in Washington State. I moved the car each day, so I wasn't "camped" there, but I returned, every night, often parking in the same spot. No one ever questioned me about it. Fortunately, summers in western Washington or usually very mild, so sleeping in a car isn't uncomfortable. There were restrooms at the rest stop, and I could shower for 25 cents at a nearby truck stop. The local library kept me stocked with books, and I used computers there to look for work and check email. (After about 3 months, I landed a job in Seattle and moved in with a friend, until I could save enough to get my own apartment.)
That’s a beautiful story!!! So glad you used your resources and NOT just say “i can’t live in my car 🚘 “
Nice story. Best of luck 😊
Truck yard parking...Swift...Werner..etc
I bet that was rough. Id hate to sleep in my truck but i would if its all i had.
How are you doing now? Living off the roads and working? Hope you're safe and well 🙏🏾💛
This man is professional and personable, easy to listen to, follow and understand. I like him.
He has great ideas 💡
First time seeing him. Subscribed so fast lol.
His voice sounds like President Obama's voice.
@@MsDebdardx4 let's go Brandon!
@@MsDebdardx4 No, but he does have a Radio Personality Voice. Mr. Obama's voice is much deeper.
If he lived in a better country he wouldn't be homeless.
I lived out of my Grand Caravan for 2 months after getting kicked out of my fiance's house (she had behavioral issues at the time and I was not abusive). I kept my job and most nights i slept in their parking lot but occasionally used the Wal-Mart lot across the road to keep from being pegged as an over-night camper. Also, the Wal-Mart was convenient for buying ready-to-eat food out of cans and the local Planet Fitness had shower access for $10/month. Pro-tip: if you're sleeping in a vehicle always find a way to elevate your feet. For the first few weeks I slept in the drivers seat and the swelling got bad enough that I could not wear shoes any more.
Kicked out of a woman's house? Why didn't you have your own place
@@user-mu8ty7vc3y
Because sometimes it just don't work out like that
@@user-mu8ty7vc3ywhy does it matter to you?
I too had a job where I could park at night. Then one day an owner of a dark parking lot said I could be there just keep it clean .
100% on the spot! I recently lived in my car for about a week and slept on the back seat. The first two days were hell precisely because I couldn't find enough room to stretch my legs. In fact, I didn't sleep at all the first night! But then I figured what the heck, I will raise my legs all the way to the front passenger seat and...what a releif! After that I slept well and even overslept one night!
My son went to Texas to work for 4 days. to save the hotel money he sleep in Planet Fitness parking lot. He has a membership with them here in Mississippi so he could go into the bathroom, shower could even work out if he wanted. Planet Fitness is open 24 hours in most cities.
As a truck driver I should also mention that most TA, Petro, and flying J stops have driver lounge areas that include a theatre area with comfy seats to watch TV or movies in, especially handy if it's really cold or really hot out.
God bless you on the road in Jesus Christ name
A what?
@@NicardoSchumacher At truck stops you will see an area with comfortable chairs, usually near the paid showers. It is called a "Driver's Lounge". It isn't a bar "lounge".
Truck stops are a good choice. The drivers will not bother you and neither will the management unless you persist in parking your 16' long car in one of the 75' long tractor trailer spots. Truck parking at night is hard to come by and finding a car in a truck slot is sure to cause you trouble. Don't wander around the lot, especially women.
I love my local flying j always there I drive for a living but not trucks run my own transportation service but during down time or when waiting for calls I'm hanging there like my office almost
I almost forgot to mention that some churches actually prepare for people who need a place to park overnight. My church has a huge parking lot with one end that butts up against a wooded area. So we pay for a porta potty that’s placed out there and we let the local police know that if they come across someone sleeping in their car in a place that they aren’t supposed to that they can send them to our parking lot so they don’t get in trouble. Plus in the winter months we operate several warming stations that are usually for the homeless that don’t have a vehicle but we don’t turn anyone away. We provide food and separate bathrooms and showers for men and women and have security people to help out in case there’s trouble.
Now...this truly a church of God!
I'd move there...wonder where it is.
Heartwarming 😊
I currently rent a room in a house owned by My Church. My wife died in January and I was told I have to leave by spring. Me and My Dog. Have a vehicle but will most likely lose all My belongings I can't haul. I can't describe what I'm feeling. Afraid I'll eventually end up in trouble for breaking a law just trying to live.... 51 and disabled trying to keep the Faith .... Not much Hope
@@kingsoutdoors4379 Best of luck 🤞
The first night is WEIRD. Agreed.
I didn’t realize how many people actually are sleeping in their cars. How many people are homeless? I didn’t realize times are so bad out there. I’ve been truly blessed to be able to have what I have. I think you just have to keep moving forward strive. I hope everybody gets blessings in their future, stay well
It's going to get more common as houses become even more insanely expensive. In the uk where I live houses are extortionate, more young adults are living with their parents compared to 50+ years ago.
The 24 hour gym is definitely one of the best places to sleep in your car overnight for 2 reasons. One, like you said they'll be gym members going in and out of the parking lot all night and 2, if you're a member of the gym, you have free access to not only the lockers and restroom areas, but you can workout and keep fit as well. Also, most gym have wifi/internet access for members and guests so yeah, fantastic option👍
I did this with Planet Fitness when I was homeless….$10 a month to have a place to shower and shave, even ironed my clothes there as well.
A homeless friend of mine did exactly that ! Always clean and fit!!!!!
Planet fitness
Some people talking to me going to subscribe in the gym you can used the badroom shower and do some exercise that's great place to live in the car 🚗
I tried this in Sacramento, CA as a gym member. the fcking police ran my plates around 930pm for no reason. For Sale Houses, neighborhoods under construction are also good. and many have port o potties. Stay strong and safe and get through your tough times..
The most important part of any of these places is ... Do your pre bedtime routine before you get to where you're going. Meaning, stop some place before one of these places and do all the things you need to do to be ready for bed, brush your teeth, get your bed ready, whatever it is do it somewhere else, then leave there and go to one of these places. That way, when you arrive, you just get into your sleeping bag and that's it.
Best advice!!
I did this. I brushed my teeth by a gym wasn’t a member of then off to sleep in my parking spot. It was a good spot. I would stay there all day.
Big time faxx....
Movement sparks activity
Activity sparks curiosity
Curiosity sparks detection
Detection sparks encounters
I used to sleep on interstate ramps, the cops would check on me sometimes, but if you see a big truck parked there also you should be ok.
Yes , that makes it a lot less awkward, and a lot less noticeable.
Great suggestions -Several of which I had not heard or thought of before! It’s time for a mind shift, America. Living “house less” does not necessarily mean homeless encampments and needles on the street. It can mean clean, industrious people who choose to live in a vehicle for a myriad of reasons. Saving a ton of money in a short period of time is just one of them…
Where do you get your mail. I know you can rent a post office box but many places require a physical address. Jobs, food stamps.....
There should be capsule hotels or hostels with bunk beds in the US I think.
Everyone helping each other."Vehicle dwellers".😊 So nice.🙏💖
💯 Agreed. Awesome 👍🏽 info
Unfortunately, the list is a lot shorter with the move of fascism in this country cracking down on the homeless they've displaced.
I pray that anyone in this situations finds a good and safe home. God bless ❤️
Amen. Everybody deserves a warm, dry, safe place to lay their heads ❤
been a vehicle dweller 35 years out of 61 years... never wished for a "house". I've worked my whole life, raised a wonderful person and am very happy. You have hang ups
We’re good, thanks! No rent, no mortgage and freedom to travel at will!
Very well said your a care bear 😂
Can I tell you a nice story from 80 in England ,I was itch hiking the 120 milles from blackpool to market Drayton ,sisters army base I got a nice lift from blackpool ,but set off bit late got most of the way ,but dropped at this junction a53 towards Shrewsbury sisters on way ,so I wandered into a truck garage asked them for a lift ,they said we can get you back to blackpool were you come from 😂, said no anyway went back into garage and it was empty ,so I jumped in a truck with a bunk went to sleep ,this is 30 yrs ago I. Morning they woke me around 8 am ,with breakfast with tea toust no problems at all ,they let me have breakfast and the go on my way thanks 😂
1. hotel parking lots
2. emergency room parking lot
3. campgrounds
4. rest stops
5. walmart
6. cracker barrel
7. industrial & business parks
8. welcome center
9. auto repair/mechanic shops
10. car dealerships
11. parking garages
12. casinos
13. BLM land
14. grocery stores & mall lots
15. police stations
16. churches
17. city street parking
18. residential street parking
19. rent a driveway
20. apartment complexes
21. truck stops
22. employee parking area
23. safe parking lot programs
24. 24 hour gyms
25. driveway of friends/family
Thanks!
Does BLM have land? Or it is another acronym ?
@@pinoysoverseas5084 Bureau of Land Management. Really only in the western parts of the US, but it’s basically just land you can camp in for free.
Rent a driveway is my favorite
@@pinoysoverseas5084 BLM Bureau of Land Management
I worked at a place were a co-worker got divorce and he stay in the parking lot. They even gave him 24/7 hours to the building. This went on for 4 years until he moved to the west coast.
When I lived in my car, I usually stayed at 24 hr gyms & truck stops. I will say that no matter where I was at. I always carried. 😅
I appreciate the recommendations, I rather sleep in my car than paying 160 for ONE NIGHT!
And with dynamic pricing now, you can't just get a rate that is firm. Depends on time of day, vacancy rate, etc.
hotel or motel always feels kind of creepy to me and I much prefer sleeping in my own familiar place , my vehicle , if need be .
At $160/night you still have the old hotel disappointments the same hotel had 10 years ago.
Covid and bedbugs are the reasons I'll never sleep in another motel. I haven't had either, but why risk it when I have a minivan?
I knew a guy who lived out of his car in Vegas and worked out regularly at the gym in where he'd use the showers and bathroom for $10 a month. This 24 hr gym had no security so he slept like a baby. You would never know he was homeless because he was muscular, healthy had good hygiene and drove a fairly decent car.
Did u guys get caught in the backseat?
@@wildestcowboy2668 Rim shot
Lol..was it me.....
Perhaps this is one of the way to live ...no high cost and a lot more bills to pay.
Hope you do well and be happy.
@@arieladelinechoo9845 I did it for a min in Las Vegas . And I told myself I would never ever ever let this happen to me again.
Camp grounds are free if you go in the camp ground after they close. Then you can pick a site and use their facilities. Just vacate the site about 7:00 am. It worked great for me.
Most camp grounds where i live you have to punch in a pin to get the barriers open for this very reason
Thats wrong. Its stealing.
As I biker that crosses statelines and timezones, I usually sleep on my bike when I dont take my lady on road trips with me. My top choice is the Loves truck stop or T&A truck stops.
They are well lit enough for safety, dark enough to sleep, dont mind you sleeping there and have showers and washer and dryers.
I found truck stops to be welcoming. Just find a spot away from the noise. Good to have a bathroom available at night. Large rest areas have worked. There is one on I-40 about 40 miles east of Memphis that has people sleeping overnight but is large enough to not be overcrowded.
@@mkpshay Definitely don't wanna actually sleep in Memphis. My club brothers said when we visit from out of town we're advised to not get gas after 9pm
I know a guy who lived in his car for three years, took a shower at a public gym every day lived off their free bottles of complementary water, panhandled to buy a meal every day and today he is healthy, living in a nice home with a wife and three kids!
One thing to remember is to leave the area as clean or cleaner than you left it. More of these areas will be willing to allow you to park there if we keep it clean.
That's a great point Kat!
Airport parking on and off location works great. Waiting to meet someone on delayed flight, planning to depart early then changed mind.
Funny you said about auto repair shops. I used to work at an auto dealership for over 20 years in the service department, so we had many people dropping their cars off at night and using the 'early bird' envelopes to drop their keys in, lock their cars and go home. I've use Auto Dealership Service Department parking many times. If anyone asks what I'm doing, I tell them I'm a traveler, and I'm waiting for the dealership to open because my vehicle needs some work. Works every time. Never had a problem.
Airport parking garages. Long or short term and not very expensive. People coming and going all hours. Gated and safe with access to bathrooms/food.
Wow
Good advice Timothy I used a hospital parking lot for a month several times I watched where most employees parked it wasn't designated employee parking It was very safe.
I parked 30min before a shift started once in a while I stayed through 2 shifts especially in bad weather. When a shift ended i left. My stay was always safe I never got out of my car. Before I arrived I always ate and used the bathroom. After that I used the toilet in my minivan and ate if I was hungry.
Once a snowstorm came overnight. Security cleaned the snow off cars mine included never knew someone was inside
Miami super expensive the airport parking.
What about air quality?
only thing is the ground shakes with the cars coming and going and it’s very loud, i tried this and couldn’t sleep
Church, yes :). Years ago on a cold winter night I took a wrong exit, got lost and ended up in a church parking lot off Hwy 71 in Fouke, Arkansas. Though fearful but pulled in anyway because it was relatively lit. Half an hour/45 minutes later a man tapped on the window, asked if he could help. Invited me in, offered coffee, cake. For some reason there were a few people in there at that late hour. We got to talking and when they learnt where I was originally from, they, unusually elated, lead me to their book/literature section to show me they have material I could read in my language - yes, in Urdu :) I learnt I was the first Urdu speaking person that had come by in all the years they've had books on Christianity in Urdu. They send material to missionaries in many different countries in local languages. Amazing, unforgettable experience.
Loved your story. The Lord works in mysterious ways.
@@marysmith861 amen indeed He does!!!
That was the Lord!!!! Praise be to God!!! Jesus Saves!
Aap Arkansas may rahtay hain?
Are you from Pakistan?
Great video. I would add that keeping your ID current will be a HUGE help. If you frequent casinos I'd get their players card, emails, etc.
Could be useful if you're ever approached. If you're at a casino and security officer asks you anything, if you open your wallet and they see a players card and a valid ID you are golden.
I also suggest Park-N-Rides, Shopping Centers (not malls) and/or Movie Theatres parking areas. Be safe.
A lot of laundry mats are open 24 hours so that’s a great option. I used to take my electronics in there to charge them and use my coffee pot. When you’re living in your car, take advantage of free electricity. Parks also sometimes have outlets.
7th⁶
If you just want to sleep then you can park at any Auto Parts Store. If the Cops say anything to you, then just tell them that you need a quart of oil, and that your waiting for the place to open.
Hate to be that guy but it’s laundromats
Yes!!!
Timothy...Awesome list man.
In the 1980s I was homeless no less than 8+ times.
Wasn't the best time in my life.
I can relate to a lot of your list. This video will help more people then you will ever meet in your life time.
On their behalf...Thank You.
Thank you so much! We traveled across the country twice with up to 3 cats and a little dog and had to sleep in the truck many times to save money, our favorite overnight parking spots were Walmart parking lots, and truck stops along the Trans Canada Highway. We also stayed at a campground for a month. We had a small tent but usually slept in the truck for safety reasons. GOD bless you all.
GENIUS with the emergency room!!! I slept in my vehicle for a month or two. I was very fortunate that it was Infront of my sister's house 😂. Just like you said I WAS CHILLING, infact I kinda liked it. I guess only because I was in a Conversion Van with a bed in the back and wi-fi. I still got that van to this day, upgraded with solar panels and TV. So if that Shit-uation ever happens again I'M READY. I Hope. I don't care how smart or clever you think you are, stuff happens in life that you just can't control. We are ALL just one paycheck away from being homeless. Trust in GOD AND STAY SAFE. Keep your heads up Brothah's and Sistah's.
Amen!
I once, parked in an auto dealer parking lot.
I backed into a space between 2 vehicles.
It was brightly lit, with security cameras, and had surrounding traffic most of the night.
I slept great in my mini-van.
Next morning, as I left, a couple of employees waved to me as I was leaving, with smiles on their faces.
Your story triggered an ET scene where ET is hiding in the closet amongst the other stuffed animals 😅
Auto dealers where I live have very active security and they are concerned about vehicle theft. They do not like anyone on there lot at night.
Excellent and well presented without the usual UA-cam click bait and long winded BS. Many thanks.
I have a few for rural locations. Trailhead parking. Some trails are where people leave their cars while hiking. Important to remember that not all allow overnight camping! Another is National Forests. It is legal to camp in a National Forest if you are not breaking any posted parking/camping rules. Your car MUST have all wheels off the traveled portion of the road. You can never block any gate no matter how seldom it looks like it's used! The same rules apply for National Grasslands, which are great places to stop on a cross country road trip.
SHOWER TIP: Truckers nearly always get free showers for filling up a certain #/$ amount of fuel. Lots of times they accrue them faster than they use them. I worked for a truck stop and saw them donate showers to people who wanted/needed them all the time. Which is great b/c showers are like $12-15 each now.
Thank you for that great tip Desirae!
Showers and coffee free w a fill up 200$ Those days are done no free coffee no free showers
I use those spare shower tickets! For the last 15 months the only time I’ve paid for a shower was because in the desert where I was there were no truck stops and only one place for showers at a gas station, which was $2. In blessed. That is $17 saved each time.
Funny thing: once a guy said he didn’t have one and insisted on buying me one because, he said, everyone deserves to be clean!
As an ex tow truck driver one thing you didn't mention that can apply to many of these places is posted signs for towing .. if your sleeping and especially stealth and hard to see now days with most automated tow trucks they can hook you up without leaving the cab in a minute or two before you are fully awake and understand what is happening though they cannot tow you if your in the car they can charge you half the tow fee to release the vehicle and police will back them up on that as it is usually in the tow laws .. so always look for tow signs and allowed parking times ... I dont know about all cities but it is a common rule there must be signs visible before you can be towed.
GTOger channel's "drumbeats" started playing through my mind the moment I began to read your comment. Who would have thought a channel dedicated to towing away cars could be so interesting?!
I would wait till I'm in the tow lot and drive out the fence, literally say escaping a kid knapping when the cops ask
@@FrankieJames7 😂 😂 😂 so smart
@@FrankieJames7 🤣😂🤣😂
Tow truck drivers are just a bunch of scurvy pirates. Smh
Im thinking of joining Vanlife in the next few months just because im tired of paying High Rent and the info ive read on here has been Very Helpful. Thank You 😁
Gas Stations too! It’s well lit, lots of people, coming and going, plus cameras. Quik Trips
I lived in Delaware, and used to go to Baltimore and DC every weekend. I stopped at the toll plaza at the Bay Bridge so often for the bathroom and a quick nap in the car, that the guy that worked there set up a sleeping pad and a pillow and blanket for me to nap inside. He was worried that it was too cold. What a sweetie.
That's so sweet!
Don't forget you can stay all day in a public library. Anyone can walk in to use the bathrooms without asking. Don't worry about nodding off in a chair or at the study carrels...just so long as you aren't laying down on their couch passed out. Do look like you have a purpose for being there. Have papers, books, magazines etc. near you. If you sit there looking at your phone all day they don't care either.
At a table in the library. I was on my laptop, and just so tired that I fell asleep. While I was sleeping a small crowd had gathered around. They thought I was dead!
Not all libraries allow that, though. I lived in a city where librarians would call the police on people sleeping or "loitering" in the library.
@@haroldcampbell3337it’s a public space we pay taxes for it we can stay in there as long as it’s open to the public
Wear dark sunglasses and ask the librarian for books in Braille. Just don't snore.
I just overcame 6 years of homelessness last year. I heavily vouch for this list. I never thought about hospital/emergency areas though. Very nice.
Great information for those in need ✊🏿💯🔥
Congrats but how ironic….most of us are housed and researching how to be homeless…escaping the rat race. 😊
@@lindsaywells5225 Exacltly! I am sick of giving $ to LLs that keep rzg rent....simple 1 BR not worth it! Parking lot is mud and they won't add gravel. He owns thousands of Apts around the country and is socking it to people. And if one owns a house the property taxes are ridiculous!! 17:02
I'm lucky. I work at an airport as a security guard. They're used to seeing my rig all over the airport.
I did this also at a very hard point in my life. I worked constantly but still couldn't afford a place to live. Taxes and child support took pretty much everything. I didn't drink smoke or do any drugs but I did pay for a powerhouse gym membership where I could shower and brush my teeth etc while I was there. I didn't pay much for the membership either like 200 a year paid in full. I slept in neighborhoods between my shift in my toyota pickup truck but I didn't have tinted windows so this limited me to where I could sleep without drawing suspicion of people in neighborhoods etc. Best advice I can give to someone in that situation is swallow your pride and ask for help from friends and family that cares about you and don't bite the hands that feed. Be humble, grateful and focused and eventually things will work out for the better. Remember our struggles are what make us stronger, better and more disciplined in the long run. Stay strong and pray. Life does get better.
Tint your windows!
I was homeless for a few yrs. I lived under a casino parking garage.. this saved my life. I got plenty of exercise walking inside, free buffet (after spending money I shouldn’t have) I could use the bathrooms, pool and showers.. the free drinks and bells and whistles were also helpful to keep my mind off the current situation also made some friends. The laundry mat also saved me from freezing. I’d do laundry overnight then sleep in my van early morning once the sun was coming out. I’ve parked in hotel lots and near stores and restaurants. I was woke up by police a couple times. My van was full of stuff without tinted windows so it was hard to park and not be noticed in my small town. It was tough sometimes finding a safe place where I wouldn’t be bothered. You’ve shared some good ideas. I pray that I’m never homeless again. Ohh one more crazy idea.. I rented a storage unit that allowed access 24/7. I’d pull in late at night. Sleep in the van or inside the storage unit which I had a bed. This was ok for spring time. No one ever questioned or bothered me. Some Uhaul storage units have electricity. It was me and the loud seagulls 😢 Sad times though I survived.
Man, that’s a good idea 😮 why didn’t I think of that?! Just set up a single bed in a storage unit
@@vhviki they usually don't allow you to sleep in the storage unit
Great video, Timothy! Thank you!🙏🏻
Having lived in our RV full time for seven years, I can validate most of your recommendations!😃
There are a couple of things that you need to know if you’re planning on venturing north of the border to Canada (AKA CHINADA nowadays🙄).
Hotel parking won’t work, whether day or nighttime, as the hotels here keep and track your license plate, and they WILL tow your vehicle away if you’re not a registered guest, ALWAYS, and they may fine you too!
In Canada, donut shops, like Tim Hortons, are a great place to sleep overnight, and they always have free wifi too (as do hospitals, Subway franchises, and most grocery stores), so you can snuggle up and stream whatever you’re subscribed to (like Netflix, Apple TV, and UA-cam etc).
Too, donut shops are nearly always crime free, as policemen frequent them regularly, and often for hours at a time, and they couldn’t care less about who is or isn’t parked there. I used to be married to a ‘cop,’ and their motto is: ‘A good policeman never gets cold, wet, or hungry!’
Most cops will do just about anything to avoid unnecessary paperwork (writing reports), so people sleeping in their cars isn’t something they want to be bothered with… generally speaking!😉
Another very important point is that you must keep your vehicle CLEAN! A shiny, well-kept car or van, regardless of the age of it, will not draw unwanted attention to itself. Humans are programmed to accept clean and tidy cars and houses etc, so you will not be equated with either a homeless person and/or a drug addict. People feel safe around ‘clean and tidy’ anythings.
That goes for your personal grooming too. Make sure that you too are clean and tidy, with a decent hairstyle. Looks matter, and the first glance at you and/or your vehicle is going to determine what people think and feel. It’s human nature.
No matter where you are, a smile is the best accessory you can wear (and it’s free)! People LIKE happy, friendly people😃! That too is well-researched and established fact.
Last point (for now): if you find that there’s trash (paper and plastic etc) around the parking spot you want to use, put on a pair of rubber gloves and tidy up the area near you (not just your own parking spot). Often security guards in mall parking lots will let you stay there regardless of the mall’s usual policy. A clean car, a clean you, a nice smile and friendly conversation, not to mention your unsolicited cleanup efforts will make you welcome just about anywhere.
I find it helps tremendously to have a small assortment of freshly-baked cookies or donuts to offer to security personnel, be they cops or civilians. Very few people will turn down freshly-baked goods, and if you have a can of pop to go with them, so much the better.😉
Just a few tips from my own experience.
Love and All Good Things,
Jesse.🌹
I like the campgrounds. I had a Volvo station wagon that was perfect for sleeping in on the road. The campgrounds have the showers and charcoal grills. Perfect for cross country road trips.
Another good one is Amazon warehouses, they are open 24h and there’s always people coming in and leaving since lots of workers have overnight shifts and parking lots tend to be rather large and you can find your little spot in a corner.
It might work for a day but best to park near other cars. Go in when employees go in if it’s gated or else guards might ask to show your badge. Employees have about an hour or so to leave once shift is over.
I work at amazon warehouse
Best place nationwide is a ACE Hardware parking lot. They have a policy of no offense, and if any deputy dog ask you what your there for, just tell them your traveling and need some items from the store when it opens. Over 10,000 locations. Always in small towns, and normally near things you may need.
What is policy of No Offense? please share
@@pilarq7886 If even used, they will post the signs of NO TRASSPASSING inside the window glass, not outside which defines the public space outward ( parking lots) as no offense areas. ACE Hardware uses common parking rules in almost every free standing store in the USA, most all adjoined stores that are not in but next to another store, and they will not support a customer being ticketed for staying on the parking lots with "intention" to buy items upon store hours. SO, you have committed NO OFFENSE to be removed or ticketed while waiting on the store to open. And since most close at 7 pm, open at 8 am, this is premium space to temp in while traveling.
I appreciate you getting straight into your list. This us great, well-researched info. I live in a neighborhood where street campers park in front of my house nearly every day. I always offer 3 days of emergency shelter. When some overstay their welcome, you have provided a really helpful list if places for me to suggest. 👏
Hospital parking lots are good too. Been there, done that.
A tip for parking at Walmart overnight. Don’t park way out at the end of the parking lot with the other overnighters. Park a bit closer to the store and cover your windows so people can’t look in and see you. You won’t stick out so much
You will stick out with windows covered lol
@@abemartinez9623 -- You have to use a cover across the windshield that says "I'm not sleeping in here". Then everything will be just fine...
I live in Arizona and rest areas are really the safest and most legal way to sleep in your car. You can buy magnetic blinds that go over Windows because one of the things people don't think about before they go and do something like this is how to keep the light out of your car so you can actually sleep. Go ahead and skip that back seat mattress that inflates because it's useless in the long run. You're better off grabbing a bunch of blankets and going old school like you're making a bed up on the couch. Definitely invest in a windshield reflector to keep the sun (and prying eyes) out. For $20 a month I have a membership to all of the planet fitness memberships in the valley (more or less) but it's an easy and convenient place to use the restroom and not feel like you're in a hurry or going to get mugged, and you can take a shower and take your time and not feel like you're about to get F'd with by the next weirdo that walks in. I always keep a couple of big styrofoam cups around and you need to protect them so they don't break because when you're out of money you can at least find ice and water somewhere so you don't dehydrate. You're going to get used to living off the dollar menu but every once in awhile go by ampm or somewhere similar and get yourself a banana and a apple so you have some type of nutrition as well as empty calories to survive off of- this is not an easy Life to live. For $50 a month I have access to UA-cam through my phone so I really don't have to pay for entertainment other than that, and believe me you too has a ton of entertainment to keep you occupied and keep your mind off of the fact that life sort of sucks right now.
I have a 100$ twin mattress from Amazon I've been sleeping on for a year and it works great just laid on the floor of my minivan
Fast food is 50% white, worthless bread, and the price is Over $12 a pound !! Besides the water, drinks are diabetes and cavity - making sugar water poison. The selection in the grocery store is a thousand times bigger, plenty nutritious and around $3 or $4 a pound.
@@senatorjosephmccarthy2720 Good point. If people realized the utter waste, physical damage that fast food causes to the body, AND the high cost; if they really faced the reality of that, they'd quit eating it forever, imo. To me, it's another greed factory that produces harmful products and misleading advertising simply to make $$$$$$$$$$$.
back east a lot of rest areas are used for cruising by people who want to have a good time with strangers.
This makes me sad..because it's not going to get any better..we all are a paycheck away from being houseless..our beautiful souls always have a home..I am manifesting a hundred acres for good people that are houseless..as the messenger of my GOD and the book of Revelation..this is the Endgame..this is my GOD'S PLAN a time of separating the good from the bad..some of you perhaps all of you are the CHOSEN ONES..of my GOD..we are the black sheep in the biological family..misfits..we are. I'm working on a solution..I am going to checkout BML..I would love to have land were you can at least park and have peace. My oldest son passed from this place that I call Hell..a place of pain suffering and sorrow..he was homeless..schizophrenia etc..he passed January 11,2022. My heart goes out to the homeless. I love you. I am the Ambassador of Love.Hope.Faith.
HEY BRUTH I NEVER WOULDVE THOUGHT TO SLEEP IN A POLICE STATION PARKING LOT, YOURE GOOD!
Years ago, during my night clubbing days....I would park in front of the Police Station, alarm on, to sleep an hour or two...to be sure my 2 drinks had not taken me " over the limit"....
Cops never bothered me..luckily, as I did not have my license at the time..
One time I locked my keys in handbag, on front seat....the Sgt on duty grabbed a coat hanger and broke into my car for me!
Saw my cover, marked " license", did not even bother to look at it!
Whew!
@@lisajoyaslanis YOU REALY EXPOSED THAT NO MATTER WHAT WOMEN WILL BE TREATED DIFFERENT. IM GLAD YOU DIDNT GET INTO ANY TROUBLE I WOULD"NT BEEN THAT LUCKY. IM 59 YRS OLD AND I HAVE A LOT OF DWBB STORIES DWBB = DRIVING WHILE BEING BLACK.
@@owensdaniels6244 This was at home, in Australia....generally women are not held in very high esteem, but a " Public Servant" does not wish to find a complaint against him..
Our cops.. Or our laws,are pretty strict, I was pulled over twice in 10 minutes, for a tail light not working...but had paper work from the first stop, explaining. ..it was the practice, back then to allow a driver up to one week to have a repair undertaken ...SO much has changed over 50 years or so!
Thanks for your reply...had just stumbled upon your channel....
Thank you so much!
The beach is a great option too. Park your car and rock a beach bonfire, with a pallet. Just another way to stretch out, after sleeping in a car for a few weeks. They also have showers.
This was what I did off and on through my journey of being homeless because my healthcare took every dime I had. Thanks for some I never thought of. Being a woman, your top ten were my life savers.
This nation is insane.Every 1 is living in captivity.Modern day slavery.U punch in a clock can't leave till they say,while u work 2 make CEO's rich.Be ur own boss as soon as possible gorgeous
So wrong what happened. We need universal health care!
@Giant that's why I'm developing many multi streams of projects. I just got denied my most important medication. Then they priced it 4 times my rent.
@Ursula when the time comes I'll be right back on Capital Hill advocating about health care and the folks who care for their loved ones.
We're so proud of being the best in everything - yet our Medical INDUSTRY bankrupts so many of us.
Why do we put up with this???
8 years living in a vehicle for me. If you ever get a repair done. Save the mirror tag with the number on it. Park at an auto repair place, like Goodyear or Firestone, put the repair number tag on your mirror. To deter theft of your vehicle, write, “Failed starter - on backorder” in a black sharpie on the tag. Big enough so thieves will think it is pointless to try and steal it. Always leave at least an hour before they open. But it also keeps the cops from even thinking you are sleeping inside.
Thank you for this awesome tip...
I drove from Sacramento to Dallas recently. I think most of your suggestions are if you're trying to stick to a zip code. Rest stops are where it's at. The ones with vending machines are annoying, but they have spaces at the edges. For motels, you want to stagger your stay with shifts. It's a strategy that works elsewhere...don't be present the entire shift of a watcher. Stagger it. You're living alternatively, modify your clock to match. Being confused about the time will help you appear to be lost. That's not a crime.
Whaaaaat
thanks bro. laws are different everywhere but this gave me tons of ideas! i just wanna bounce back while not paying rent!
Another thing to consider, depending on your circumstances and environment, is becoming nocturnal. I don't drive, but I have been stuck sleeping outside before. One trick that's worked for me during the day in nice weather was to lay in the grass next to a library or college, with my face on an open book, and pretend to have fallen asleep while reading. As long as you're reasonably clean, having a backpack with you doesn't look out of place either, and I felt much safer sleeping in the broad daylight.
Absolutely!! I lived in my car for three months and did Uber eats at night and slept during the day. Was way easier then a traditional sleep schedule
My people!
@@maximwilson1482 ..but what restaurants are open during the night?
@@sweetbeep maybe he means dinner time.
I lived out of my van for two years voluntarily and working full time. I still miss the freedom and minimalism. Great video with very real and relevant info.
What's your situation now?
I wonder if it sucks and a sense of 😒 paying more bills again after living rent free for so long..
@@Ashley-og9tiyes it does suck going back to all that...
@@Ashley-og9ti It's actually more expensive in many places to "live" out of your car, many people don't know this, but if you're voluntarily living out of your car and traveling anywhere you wish, the gas will be brutal and even more than what is spent on rent, I know it has been for me. But I travel all across the country, hence the term voluntarily.
@raushaunrigsby1181 that sound like the living in your car isn't the expensive part, its the travel.
Passing thru small town in Utah, stopped next to a horse trailer and went to ring the bell to ask if it was ok to sleep in the car infront of their property and I got a yes. I also got pancakes and great stories.. I think I left early in the morning to get a coffee and toilet.. another place where I stopped and asked if I could sleep infront of the house I was told to pull on the drive way/ yard and I was fed too. Super nice old couple in Texas. And last- day before Tetons NP season started I pulled to their parking lot and started talking with a man, turned out he was the manager and bc the park wasn't officially open yet I was ok to sleep in the lot.. he also asked if I wanted anything to eat or drink and took me inside with the other crew- there's this and that- help yourself. I got brekky too! I experienced mind-blowing kindness in so many places. It's funny how strangers treat you nicer tfan the ones who know you. Thank you for everyone who is kind for people in need ❤
1:30 this man says these words and you can feel the history behind them and the substantial level of being bothered he’s gone through
I have a Ford Fiesta, so i parked one night at a dealership, I parked ($) at a Mall , ate dinner, saw the latest movie possible after shops closed, brushed my teeth in ladies room so I would not be late for an interview in DC when I lived in NorthVA, next day used ladies room freshen up for my interview then drove home afterwards...why pay for a DC hotel and I didn’t get the job...Timothy these are great ideas and I even parked in the lot near the convent of a private Catholic School! Sovereign God of protection.
Storage unit facilities work great too. Years back I rented an outside parking spot for boats, rv, trailers etc at a storage unit facility. It cost me $60 a month. I had privacy and felt safe cause it was all fenced in with a gate at the entrance.
This should be his #26, My husband and I asked to use an RV one on a country road when travelling and had a good night’s sleep there before moving on again…and talked to someone at a truck stop once who had arranged with a similar place to do it for a reasonable price for a month.
In 2020, I was renting a storage space in Northern California. I became aware that a few people were living out of a unit.
As a former property manager. I kicked out many people living in units or parked vehicles on my property. They usually were unsavory
@@abemartinez9623 That's pretty cruel sir 😢
@@mjohnson1741 nope . Go to a homeless shelter. My other paying customers deserve a safe clean property
Ask a friend or relative if you can park in their driveway. But you can't stay all day but a safe place for the night. Never forget to lock your doors.
Good input ! Used some of these places when I worked a long ways from home and was working a lot of overtime , or the weather was just real bad , money for gas to get home was also an issue sometimes, even working the overtime. Some of the places you mentioned I had not thought of . When one of my sons bought an old large fishing boat he happened to berth it at a marina near where I worked and gave me all the security codes . That was pure luxury sleeping on the boat . And once in a while he would work on the boat remotely with his laptop so I would get a chance to see him , we both had very busy schedules.
Good list with a few exceptions. City and neighborhood PARKS are one of the BEST places to stay overnight. Usually there is parking available on the street or lot of a park. Those are fifty percent of my overnight stays. And remember, take No-thing for granted, stay as legal as possible, clean up your crap, and help pick up a bit around your immediate stay area as a small gratitude for being allowed to sleep safely in your vehicle in that spot. The carelessness in leaving garbage behind is one main reason why businesses don't allow overnighting. Thanks again and stay well.
That's a huge no-no in western WA (at least in King and Snohomish counties), as are most of his suggestions
Police clear out the playgrounds at 10pm.
Most parks out where I live have no parking after a certain time, so that’s not always a good option.
@@teridoster5840 Thank you for sharing as I'm considering this lifestyle when my lease is up soon here in Seattle.
@@jessitabonita hope it goes well for you ❤️
As someone who has stayed in my vehicles many many times over the years, this is a very practical guide
Happy to see this kind of content
Bank parking lot. Light, security. Just leave before staff arrives.
Outside the fence at dog pound. Anyone comes too close, you got an early warning system.
A less expensive way to get indoors sooner: rent an office in a busy office complex. Make sure it's busy enough that nobody complains when you go in and out at all hours. If u look around, you'll find office space with free heat, a/c, electric, bathroom, etc. Get a mini fridge, hotplate, microwave, and toaster. You might need to certify your business name with your county first, which typically cost a one time administrative fee of $25 to $40. Good luck!
That’s a really great tip!
I and other's have had overworked and under slept times.. And it's pretty scary when you are droopy eyed behind the wheel with falling asleep nagging you. These are great solutions to get you off the road, safely!
You're providing a service NEEDED by more than you'll ever know. I thank you.
Hospital/ emergency room parking lots are the best. Also if there are any 24 hr urgent care places . You are the only person I’ve heard mention hospitals . They are the best in my opinion .
It has not been my experience that hospitals are good places to sleep. They’re called security guards. If you’re not visiting someone, or a patient yourself, then no, you cannot sleep in hospital parking lots.
I would worry about them giving me a bill for several thousand dollars.
@@sexygeek8996 😂😂😂
@@lisabritt4284 The streets around ERs are public and I've never been hassled there.
As a female, I think the police station parking lot sounds the safest as long as they allow it. I am not in the situation where I need to sleep in my car yet, but the way apartments are being bought up by developers, huge unaffordable rents going up and up, people being given 30 days to move out, I live in anxious fear that it could happen to me at any time. It's good to read all the good advice in this video and know what to expect if and when the horror happens.
Thanks for sharing this because its apart off life and people are being forced to live in their cars 🚗 and vans every day now and this imfo is important to know.
If you're going to sleep in your car and don't want to be found out, make sure you apply Anti-fog to all of your interior glass. If your windows are fogged, guess which car the No-sleep police will target!
😺litter in 🧦on the dashboard
@@curtiskretzer8898Really?!!
@@dk1828 some1 posted hack
26. Airport parking. 27. Cemeteries. 28. Forest Service land if you move every 16 days more than five miles from where you were. Never sleep in seats, sleep flat in cold weather especially subzero. Avoid the cold sink of floor boards. Straw is the old human insulator from before there were homes. You don't need heat, but you do need fat, carbs, and calories since you are the fuel. Mittens and not gloves. Screw top pee bottles. Screw top plastic coffee buckets like Maxwell House for the ladies. Crack your window to avoid foggy windows. Take clothes off once warm inside sleeping cell, but keep clothes in that cell. Place coat over head. Wear a warm lose hat too. Shame is for homeowners who don't get out.
Graveyards lock their gates. Some states will arrest you for trespassing quick.
Move more than 5 miles from where you were... 😄 That's called bein in the next town over. Good list of advice though.
The last one is the truth.
Excellent advice for cold weather. I'm not homeless, but I camp in my car. If you have 60/40 split seats, you can keep a couple of lounge cushions behind the seat, then pull down the 60% wide side, and extend the cushions into a bed. This keeps you off the floor, warm, and a couple of blankets over top, and you should be comfortable through the night. Wearing a touque (knit hat), or a bush hat, keeps your forehead covered and keeps most of your heat, in you. I've slept in -10°/-15°C (15°/5°F) and been OK. (ps. make sure one of the few blankets is WOOL)🙂
@@onemoreday1550Our grave yard has no gates, has two huge parking lots, and dead peaceful. And beautiful. And it is quiet. No bathrooms though.
ALWAYS, always, keep your doors locked when sleeping in your car! -- One time in Cherry Hill, NJ, I was sleeping in a motel parking lot, in the back, and about 5am, someone was knocking on my window, and trying to open my car door. Didn't wait around to find out who it was and I ASSUME it was security, but I started my car and drove off.
And put the safety belt through anything on the door and safety belt it so that no one could break in n open the door while your sleeping.
This guy is a genius
I’ve been sleeping at Walmart the last 4 nights. There’s a section at the end of the parking lot where a lot of rvs park. There’s quite a lot of other people sleeping in their cars near me. Security patrols intermittently throughout the night and I haven’t seen them bother anybody yet
I feel so lucky that right now I'm watching this from the comfort of my apartment as I think about taking a week long car camping adventure. To anyone watching who isn't so lucky as to have a choice, my thoughts are with you. I'm sorry we live in a society where having a home isn't a basic right.
Having a home isn’t a basic right. Religious and political freedoms, pursuit of happiness (and a free education, by the way) are basic rights. Using that free education to get a job and earn the money necessary to get a home is the right thing to do. Get off of your liberal guilt trip and learn to give others a helping hand, not a hand out.
@@pdelmercado wow, how judgmental and the opposite of a Christian.
Everyone has a different comfort level 😊
Hello Kitty is absolutely right. These freeloader wanna be types like Monica & Shirley think other people are their enslaved housing providers. Demanding things you haven't earned isn't Christianity, it's just low down stealing. And civilization is based on judgements, not on leeching off other peoples' efforts. Just 'cause Monica & Shirley are too skanky now to match the competition at their favorite truckstop, the world owes them a house. No effen way!
@@pdelmercado Literally none of that is scripturally based. We are told to help the least among us, not to sneer at them and judge them.