I always march right up to the hotel desk clerk, show them a picture of my vehicle (if they can’t see it from where they are), slap down a $5 bill, and politely ask if I can “pay for a spot to rest for a few hours?” They ALWAYS say yes, and thank me for being honest and straightforward and for respecting the fact that they are in the business of making money, not running a free Rest Stop. I suspect the desk clerk pockets the $5, but what do I care? I don’t get hassled. In the morning I stop by and thank them, and sometimes they give me coffee! Best wishes on your future attempts!
100% amen to this, they see a van and have no idea who is inside. Just parking and trying to dodge security on private property is way more sketchy than just going in and asking.
i used to be a night auditor at a hotel and i was always told by my manager to run off people sleeping in their vans. it pained me to do it because at that time i lived in my van and knew how much i hated hearing "knock". best i thing i can say is go to a walmart or some grocery store and part as far away from the entrances as u can. great way to not get spotted doing vanlife
@annarodriguez6808 Tell me about it. I would never feel safe wandering around the world like that no knowing where it's safe to sleep and I'm too castrophobic to live in a vehicle of any size.
Actually you're not that safe in your house nowadays. Dangerous people can get into any house, etc. they want to enter. These people are pros at planning and figuring these things out. Stay prayed up. Psalm 91
Gosh, I worry so much when I see women traveling alone in vans/RVs. Is there any way you could do this with a friend or family member…sorry to pry, I’m just concerned for you.
@@harleyriderstitcher3951 The only downside is that it can be active all night with truck jake brakes as they're coming in, people slamming their doors and talking as they're going in and out of the convenience store, etc.
I read a nurse's comment in a similar video that hospital parking lots were very safe to park and sleep. They are monitored with security cameras. She said that families of people in the ER or hospital often take time to sleep out in their cars and therefore are not disturbed. Maybe everyone should add that to their potential list of places to sleep safely.
Well I don't think it would be a nurse in UK saying that, where hospital parking is very expensive and my local hospital is known for vehicles being vandalised
@@miguel360kmc doesn't matter...criminals know hoe yo easily disarm people. If she had a gun, all she needed to do was to say so...or show it..but certainly not roll the window down. 🙄
@@denicebrookssings not sure where you're getting this impression of criminals from but there isn't some class that teaches criminals to disarm someone. You have to think realistically what type of "criminal" is going to try and break into a van. Which would be junkies for the most part looking for a quick and easy score seeing a person male or female is enough to scare half of them away gun or no. Point is a master criminal isn't breaking into vans in a hotel parking lot. And if they are a glass window up or down isn't going to make much of a difference is it?
It doesn’t seem like much fun to have to look for a place to park every night and to have to move and to have to worry about who is knocking at your door. I felt stressed out just watching your video. It felt very real!
I slept in my Honda Element for two months. At first it was somewhat adventurous but after awhile it definitely was not fun....but it's a have to do so.....if you are living in a vehicle ..there isn't a choice in the matter.
As an expeditor, I would always find a Pilot, Flying J or a Love's Truck Stops to stay the night in every time. People park overnight in those places all the time and I never had an issue doing so. I was in my late fifties and what was real nice was I was able to use the restrooms and get showers at these places as well. They are a lot safer to stay in then Walmart or rest stops. Just thought I would let you know. Please be safe, young lady, and God bless!!!
@@lockandloadlikehell I was kicked outa several Walmart parking lots, but never once was I ever kicked out of truck stops as long as I didn't park in the back with the big rigs! Walmarts aren't always available for over night parking!
There's a Love's truck stop near my house. There are two girls in a van that have been living there for eight months and I keep telling them to just get a job there already 😁 This video girl passed a Buc-ees in Florence that would have worked.
@@TheCindlbergen That is a good suggestion for the gals that continue to stay at the same truck stop. I always felt safe sleeping at truck stops. My interactions with truckers was always pretty positive for the most part as long as I didn't park my Promaster Van in the back where they parked. Truckers can get a little testy when they ain't gotta a place to park for their bigger rigs! I never blamed them for that a bit either, because they only have some many hours a day they can be on the road and then they are forced to pull over by their trucking apps to rest for so many hours a day or they get huge fines. When I delivered busses and truck chassis's I had to follow trucking apps as well. It's a royal pain in the Bahama Bootie! I loved my expeditor job because I didn't have that hassle of following those trucking laws! My loads were smaller and so was my van! You would not believe how great it was not worrying about clearances, weigh stations, and some states require permits for commercial vehicles to travel through them! If you ever get into the truck driving lifestyle, I suggest an expeditor job! I miss doing it!
@@lockandloadlikehell Walmart is not fine. Some areas there is very high crime and robberies. The truck stops are a lot safer. Rest stops at night are high risk.
Of all the Vanlife pages I belong too, this one was the most real I've seen. This shows the struggles that I haven't thought about while wanting to do this. Makes me think twice.
You are looked at a homeless. It didn't matter to them. You can not even park on the streets. Even when there is plenty of space. This is what it is like for the truly poor. I'm not even talking about drug addicts. I'm talking about those who no longer have a job. Life the roof over thier heads. Some whole families. The usually go to the woods and camp out until they find jobs. They are removed from the woods too. There is nowhere fir people to go when this happens. Out gov needs to pass laws that pay his Ruth the time. These businesses can afford it. They have more money than any y one would ever need for generations. Excluding tiny businesses. Where they should not be allowed to take from their tips. Most do not msg that amount. Navy restaurants don't allow employees to keep their tips. Owner's them. Always ask if tips go to the employee.
I work at a hotel... as a night auditor... off a main highway and we dont run tired people thats obviously traveling off site. We'd prefer people not to drive so tired they might crash. Plus most of the time travelers grab a 2-4 hour nap and theyre up and going for the day
That is very considerate of your establishment. I imagine most won’t. That is their business, renting rooms so I can’t say that I necessarily blame them.
@@mightymarsha Very smart and kind. What you explained is exactly what happened to me once doing a 3 hour drive late at night i was almost home but my eyes wouldn’t stay open I slept a few hours woke didn’t know where i was lol and felt so much better after sleeping and took off to do the rest of the drive home.
The idea of traveling is so seductive. The idea of driving all night to find a place to sleep, not so much. I have to admit that I'd be very scared to hear a knock, especially as a woman traveling alone. I'm going to keep up prayers for you and your well-being.
@@huckleberrychris Another thought.. police in small towns are finally getting used to "Van-lifers" that have TH-cam channels. I follow about 15 accounts of Van Lifer's, RV's Van's remodeled,car Lifer's. A ton of these individuals and families travel for work ". Any event..just be careful. Not all police will be nice ...to single women traveling across the country. They always think that people are engaging in something illegal. Stay safe ladies. 🥀📿🙏
No doubt this weirdo saw her earlier, knew there was awoman alone inside. No male would ever do this to snother male who could kick his face off. I would’’ve got out the bear spray and given him a big blast in the face. Then called the cops. Short of that I would’ve left!! Just drive the hell away.. This is crazy men harass men this way. It never stops. There is little accountability. This is what I fear most about this sort of living. Men follow me for miles and miles in my car as it is now. It’s ridiculous.
The problem is--so many people are now living out of the vans--they are everywhere! I ran errands today, and saw a few van dwellers in both parking lots of the major stores. How do I know? It's a warm day, and they had their doors open you could see their beds and they were clearly living in them. The businesses are afraid of becoming "van cities" and keeping buyers or business away. It's going to get harder--because more and more people are having to live out of their vehicles as rents have gotten so high.
It’s cheaper than todays’ democratic State rent, I live in a Uber /Lyft/ door dash car. Sometimes people could smell my dirty drawls and dishes under the storage panels.
The library in my next town over just put up signs in the parking lot not allowing homeless or anybody to congregate their after closed hours and also in the parking lot, no parking when the library is closed. My guess is that homeless or those in vans or old broken rv’s were making a mess or causing trouble. It seems to be getting harder and harder to find a spot here that allows overnight parking as even my local grocery stores have signs stating no parking after store is closed. It might also be an issue of safety for those that are just wanting a restful night but perhaps the homeless in the area were bothering others? I don’t know.
I lasted 7 days sleeping in my conversion in New Orleans. Found a decent route of 5 sleeping spots but the last two nights i was witness to a gun fight and the last night i was there a group of teenagers were busting up the car behind me right after i made dinner.. i prompted jumped in the front and drove away asap.. i left the city the following day.. going back to Arizona now to regroup myself and figure out where i want to go next.. be safe out there y'all and always trust your gut
It would get exhausting having to think everyday where you were going to park that night. It's either out in the sticks or desert somewhere or pay for camp site for security and peace of mind. Sounds like you have to be constantly thinking, planning organizing, stocking up and moving on. You need to have a destination and your route, stops etc. worked out.
The second you pulled in and I saw that car sitting there with the lights on I said, “Oh no, girl.” Lol I definitely never park where cars are just sitting. Never good news. 🤣🤣
@@coldhardtruth8428 Bending over backwards to accommodate their lifestyle?? That's a bit of a stretch, don't you think?? RV/van lifers are just looking to experience the beauty of the world as opposed to being a hamster on a wheel. Sheesh.
@@coldhardtruth8428 are you serious? Choices are usually due to no rentals nvm affordable! 😘🇨🇦🙋🏻♀️what works are you living in love? Show compassion. Stuff happens in life.
Interesting lesson learned about "active" parked cars. Thanks, As for the other commenters: Go lurk elsewhere, you Orks. What the blazes are you doing in a site like this with your crap-dash attitude?
The best protection i ever had while sleeping in my van was Bulletz and Wolf my two German shepherds!! each of them curled up and slept on the two front seats,, If they heard anything they sat right up and no one ever messed with me or my van,I aylways slept great and felt very safe,.
@@susangoodman4925 A nurse posted the exact same on another channel. She said it's safe to park there overnight because a hospital have security who make their rounds and " patients" families or family members often sleep in the cars. She said many are nomads and the hospital security do not bother them.
I live in my van (I'm just homeless, not trying to travel and do "VanLife"). But I've had very good luck sleeping in hospital parking lots. Occasionally, a security guard has knocked and asked me if I needed help (since I was parked for a long time at a hospital). I just tell them I needed a safe place to sleep, and they go about their business. Most of the time, I'm not noticed or bothered at all
@@ChrisF-fx5du Hundreds of thousands of dollars in medical bills for the past several years, basically. I am on disability .And the housing market where I live has tripled rent prices. I am just doing what I can do to get by
come on its security guard, and its illegal to park without staying at hotel property, its was her fault not ask for permision, and the click bait picture in the video are like clickbait to make them like a thief or burgar knocking the door?????
I had a couple of thugs climb on the roof of my motorhome once when I was parked in my hometown. It's disturbing that people have no respect for you and your own property.
@@doughurd-s3q Some guys jumped on my stepdad's truck in Mexico. He told my mom to hang on. It's going to be a bumpy ride. He did a zig zag and then drove straight real fast and slammed on the breaks. The guys were yelling and falling off the truck.
Some guys jumped on the back of my stepdad's truck in Mexico. He drove from side to side and straight real fast and slammed on the brakes. The guys were yelling and falling off the truck.😅
If you have a Planet Fitness membership they often don't mind you parking outside! (as long as its one of the 24 hour ones). It feels so great to get a workout, have a good night's sleep, wake up and take a shower, then head out. I have a school bus with bright paintings and two dogs that need bedtime walks so I'm not stealthy at all, but I've never gotten the knock at a gym so far. I always let them know I'm there and then pick a quiet spot in the back. I've also seen people parking at YMCA and Golds, even though those aren't 24 hours.
I bet they have security cameras, I plan on just doing some travelling in the warmer months, campgrounds/ truck stops have showers which are better than any van shower and I don't see the point in paying for one for my camper van, I did not know that they would let you park and sleep at planet fitness, now I'm thinking it would be worth the membership, thanks for the tip!
I’m not sure if you always just pull in. I would recommend backing in… that way if you ever need to exit quickly you are in a safer situation. Have you tried 24 hr stores, gyms and gas stations? Places where cameras are on you? That’s my recommendation for safety.
OK there are cameras but most don't have security guards 24 7. And calling cops sheesh they're never available or on time to help save you from real danger. Plus the constant noise no thanks.
I called the police station one evening in a familiar town I was visiting but was having trouble finding parking. They were so friendly and gave me a few places I could go.
You also have to be aware about people wearing fake security uniforms. Definitely don’t get out of your vehicle in a situation like that. You can get those uniforms anywhere. So if they ask you to get out do not listen, they have no reason to ask that.
@alirussell-hayward6279 It wouldn't matter. If you walk them in the day or the night... To do their business or otherwise... They are a twenty four hour protector regardless where you are. A Cane Corso,German Shepard..., Any kind of dog like that. If I was single on the road that would be my companion and protector !!!
@@Clothed-with-His-Glory I’ve never had to pay at hospitals for parking but even if you do have to pay in a pinch because you can’t find a spot to safely park overnight, it would still be cheaper than paying for a camping site.
If you park in a hospital parking lot, please don't take spaces anywhere near the ER at any time of day. Go to an empty area of the lot to leave room for the people who are actually staying at the hospital or are seeking treatment. In larger urban areas, most hospitals charge a lot for parking, it isn't free parking, and also there are never enough spaces for those who actually need them to be with a patient in the hospital or at the ER. Maybe using a hospital parking spot in a smaller town or city, but please don't do it in an urban area. You can probably get away with it, but know you are hurting people.
The whole risk of having a knock in the middle of the night would raise my anxiety every night. It’s just more intense when it’s knocking on your car as opposed to your home I don’t know.
I lived in my SUV in a big city for almost 5 months. A couple of truck stops, a casino, a mixed retail/college campus area with parking garages and parking along a creek.... but my favorite was the top floor of a hospital parking garage. I had my own little corner that I felt sooo comfortable at night! 🤗
Yes! Hospital parking lots, whether an open lot or in a parking garage, are very good for parking overnight. It's the nature of what they do there that means people arrive at all hours and can sometimes stay for days at a time.
@@livinginthenowand I just remembered a couple of other spots that I slept at... Cracker Barrel and Walmart. My "little corner of the world" was by far the absolute best because no foot traffic just randomly passed by me through the lot. ☺✌
@@vickilssrb4405 I always think it's interesting to hear where people Park when in a city, because that is something I've not yet done after all these years. I stick to Forestry and I'm only dealing with animals for the most part .... I think I've only had a couple of situations where thugs approached my vehicle in the woods ... but when you live in Wisconsin, we handle things a little differently , ... pretty-much everyone is packing Firearms when you're in the wilderness, so there's not much fear. The worst thing that I can recall happening to me was a black bear climbed on top of the hood of my Isuzu Trooper when I was sleeping in the back with my German Shepherd. That happened in the Oneida Forestry ..... he probably smells the dog food inside.
I would be terrified to try and live and travel in a van by myself. I admire you that you can do this. You are so much braver than I am. Prayers for your safe travels.
I always find a place at least two hours before dark. I prefer to camp in the wilderness if possible and I avoid towns and cities at all costs. It's just too crazy out there. Outside cameras are a must with lighting and always be armed. You should have looked for a truck stop and parked with the truckers, there is always someone there and they are used to people parking. Good luck.
I promise you it's not as scary as it seems. Especially when you are camping in regular camping areas and places that are designated for nomadic living. When I'm actually on the road I only go to truck stops and rest areas. Anything else you stand a chance of a knock at your door. I feel safer in my van than I did my home.
Generally on registering for a hotel room you have to give them your plate number, so they know your are a patron. I can see staying in a hotel lot could be risky. Stay safe out there.
Me too. With all the weird things going on in the world it's scary. There are too many creeps out there. But I hope she stays safe and secures the van.
I am at Nomad and the rule of thumb is find a place by three and in by five give or take I have used this practice it works for me. God bless you and hope to see you out there.
You might want to park right next door to one of those big commercial trucks, one of those that has traffic cones out. You’re not right in front of the hotel but out of sight. You might want to create a dummy antitheft indicator right next to your driver side door. It’s going to be a dummy antitheft lock and red led light. Just like some folks put out dummy cameras on their front porch’s. Make the security guard think that they’re going to have a car alarm start blasting off at 2 Am and waking everybody up.
Yeah I noticed as you drove in to the area there was two commercial vehicles parked there just before you got to the parking lot itself and out of sight of the hotel itself. That might be a good vehicle. Van camp in a converted commercial vehicle. I’ve seen several times where someone converted a box truck. From the outside you’ll never know someone is sleeping inside. They’re disguised that well you’ never guess that someone was asleep inside in apartment luxury. Most box trucks have a partition that closes the cab area off from rest of the truck. So if the lot security guards are looking at the truck they really can’t see anything. One other conversion they most likely wouldn’t mess with would be a vehicle that did an electrical repairs after a hurricane. You know the kind I’m talking about the kind that goes into other states to help local crews repair their electrical infrastructure.
Yeah, I agree. When I stay at Cracker Barrell, I end up eating there at night and then again in the morning. It just seems right. I wouldn't think of staying at a motel unless I was checking in.
Please don't EVER open your window. Talk through the glass. (Even a uniform doesn't mean he works there.) Also, I have a red, steering wheel lock to deter anyone from even trying to break in overnight. (even in the day as a deterrant. They're looking for a quick steal.). I'm also armed, and hope you are too. Women on the road can't be too careful. ❤
The red locks, you hack saw through steering wheel slight bend and pull steering lock off its roughly 46 seconds to do by hand, if powered its 8 seconds.
Being armed can be good or terribly bad. There are no common gun laws and even having one in the van could get you imprisoned in some states. If you choose to be armed obtain a carry permit from a state with reciprocity with a large number of other state and know the law in every state you enter.
@@OgglyGoogly -Those few seconds gives you all the time you need to get up front, pull the slide back on your pewpew, put it to the back of his head, and say "Get out or die!"
@@mainemermaid6596 if you in the car a pick of the door you in before they even awake so no you dont have any seconds to react. You can also release gas into the van while they asleep so no.
The higher end hotels often have security AND they register your vehicle plates. I once got the knock at a really nice resort hotel in Pagosa Springs, Colorado. I’ve never had a problem at mid-range hotels in a good neighborhood. I find hospitals and churches work well or neighborhoods that have a lot of cars parked on the street.
Not really. You can literally park on the side of the road in a van or car. yes the police might come and knock on your window at some point, but you're not doing anything wrong or illegal and they should recommend you getting some rest over driving anyway...... It's much harder if you're in a rig n logged out of time to drive n the truck stop you was planning on going to is full.....this just extra extra n trying to avoid that knock.
A fríend who was a ranger said she would put her hand on the bumper and knock. If she felt the van/car moving she knew someone was inside. If you hear the knock- don’t move! But to be honest- it’s hard NOT to immediately sit up and move 😝
I’m in over the road truck driver and my advice to you is not to park at Walmarts. Some of them will have your vehicle booted and it will cost you a tremendous amount of money to have that removed. You should try to find parking in outer suburbs, not in the downtown area and get yourself some trucking apps like flying J loves TA Petro you can usually park in the front lots of those for free and they’re well lit and the staff inside can see your vehicle and nobody will bother you
3:10 I'm not sure if anybody explained this or if you knew, but that trumpeting was actually from the military base you where saying was nearby! I grew up close to one and this trumpeting is a nightly occurrence, though I don't remember what it's for. Hope this cleared up any confusion anybody reading this might have had!
@errerrare ...... the trumpeter was sounding ( playing ) can't remember - as in lights out, sleep tight. Revellie is the ' time to wake up folks ' sounding.
Allison, get a remote start installed. Carry bear spray Also find a camera system for your van. One you can monitor from the back. Also, if someone starts knocking. Don’t turn on any lights. If you do want lights. Get some red lighting. Less noticeable from the outside.
I've carried hornet spray at the ready it's saved me from dangerous people , animals many times over my 71 year's . My niece drives a semi truck I suggested she carry hornet spray being a lady exspecially . She always wears work clothes ,boots , work jacket , jeans , yet still gets creeped out every ounce in awhile at a truck parking by the few creepy men in the world . I'm sure these types of people creep everyone out worse I think it's criminal to .
Or people with social issues,or the Ted Cross out people up that have to be watched. Plus some hotels have drug dealers delivering drugs who pull up and wait for tenants to come out. Hotels are never a good idea to stealth in for these reasons
As soon as you said Columbia, SC I was like noooooooo. I live not far from there and it's terrible. I would never stay there, even in a hotel I wouldn't feel safe.
We park at hotels all the time ... just go in, tell them you're traveling and just need a safe place to park while you rest ... we've never been told no.
😞Knocking is @18:45 💡Find a 24 hr gym and park there - that works for me 100% of the time. 💡I’ve taken road trips all over the country and I know hotel lots are iffy a lot of the good ones have stealth security people in the lot - they see you before you ever see them. I usually plan to sleep overnight at Rest Stops, 24 hr gyms, neighborhood streets in safe areas, Cabela’s, and free parking garages / parking decks. I have always been creeped out at Cracker Barrel & Walmart lots. My spirit can’t seem to calm down or relax, not sure why so I don’t even try those locations anymore. 🤷🏻♀️ 👍Safe travels. 💝
@@topherbec7578 - 👍🤩Oh for sure, that’s what I meant…I should have said that to be clear. I definitely only park overnight at gyms that I have a membership to use. 💝
I’m buying my van this year. From watching your videos and others I know to ensure thicker glass, autu security bright lights, ect… I value my life and refuse to step out half assed
I'm a vanlifer and can relate to what you go through here. Although it only happened once, I was kicked out of a casino parking lot. I avoid hotels (last choice) and prefer Cracker Barrel. I like your van, I can't stand up in mine lol. Thanks for the good advice. Blessed and safe travels.
When my sister travelled in her RV, see would often attend churches for services or events along the way and when she would ask them if she could park overnight they usually said yes. Just a tip if you do the same thing.
I would be much too nervous to travel alone and especially park and sleep in the van. It looks like great fun but there are too many dangerous people who need to be taken off the streets. I really enjoy this type of video.. I wish for you a safe and easy travel path. I hope you know Jesus and you talk to him every day.
In the near future for your safety never let your window down. Talk to them through the closed window. And then just leave. You never know if they are who they say they are.
Absolutely never roll down your window or Open Your Door and always make sure you are locked inside -- with your keys and your phone near your side at all times.
The only way i would do full time is to stay in campgrounds. Trying to find a place to sleep every night would be extremely stressful to me. i wouldn't sleep well and would not be at peace. I need peace.
You need external solar motion detector lights and a go cam or ring cam to see all around your van. Then a huge dog. Or a recording of a very large loud dog. I’d travel like you do, but the great recommendations for staying at Flying Jays, or one of the huge truck stops sounds best. They are always open, have traffic, security, and showers, bathrooms, food. Be safe. People can be so crazy. Bless your travels!
I admire your analytical skills in searching up a safe sleeping spot. I tried minivan life for only 2 weeks but failed because when I'm tired, it's so frustrating to have to go to 3 or 4 or more places just trying to find a safe spot to sleep. Your success and good attitude is a testament to your tenacity, but at the same time, it pisses me off that you should have to go through this. With the growing need for people to choose van life, there should be accommodations made somehow to provide legal and safe parking.
@@bnellaniyahyeap. It really makes me angry that America is turning into where this is becoming a necessity. It's better than being homeless on the street though
I work as a Security Officer for one of the major companies in the US. The most common reason for Security to be in a parking lot in a regular car is on a new acct. That car was either a company paid rental, or an officer's personal vehicle if the account is so new that a rental was not yet arranged. Most marked vehicles are actually owned by the security company. My guess is that hotel has had security in their lot for 6 months or less.
I e worked security for many years. A lot of officers monitor the parking lot in their personal vehicle due to the working just that property. Not worth having a company vehicle there if it’s not needed.
20 years ago as a teenager I moved out living out of my jeep Cherokee in Walmart parking lots for a couple of weeks. Was wondering if you have a reason for not overnighting at truck stops, or maybe you do stay in those sometimes. Enjoyed your video. Then totally understand a van sticks out much more than smaller vehicle in those parking lots. Pretty unsettling to have somebody going around banging on your sheet metal and then your window. At least it happened only a few minutes after you got there so you weren’t woken up.
Hello Steve. I know this is late but thank you for your extremely special post. My mum passed at home with us from a cardic arrest. One day here ,next day no more conversations and no one to call 'MUM' Steve you rock ,you are the only camping dude I watch. Wish you could come to New Zealand.
The hotel may have added security either because too many vehicle dwellers had been staying there... or because it’s a sketchy neighborhood and there have been robberies, causing the hotel to lose business. Honestly, I can’t imagine driving so long just to find a place to sleep, that’s pretty tough. Glad you found a spot and it was peaceful.
I lived in Columbia and know the area. The overall neighborhood of that hotel isn't bad, but there's an extended stay hotel just two doors down from it that could have an iffy traffic flow. So that might have influenced the hotel security situation. If she had just driven over the big intersection(next to the Denny's) she would have been at one of Columbia's largest hospitals and probably could have blended in with the vehicles there.
This happened to me while just traveling in my truck. I pulled into a fast-food restaurant and got food and then pulled into a spot in what looked like a vacant hotel and was sitting there eating when a guy from inside the hotel comes to my window asking if I needed a room. Weird. Just leave people alone who are not bothering anyone or anything.
I had not committed an offense and there were no signs saying that only guests could park there. And I wasn't parked at the front of the building, I actually parked in a spot closest to the street. But here in lies the problem. Society has become so diligent with the "you can't do that" attitude, that they are making mountains out of mole hills. Let the innocent stuff go. I was literally there 10 minutes. I wasn't going to camp there.@@F_e_l_i_x_
This was so unnerving and extremely uncomfortable to watch. It gave major anxiety vibes! I felt SO bad not only for her but just simply watching it because no one deserves to live this way. My heart truly goes out to those who have to live this way and I commend you for doing what you’ve got to do and just making it👏🏼👏🏽👏🏾👏👏🏿👏🏻because I get that but if you do not HAVE to live this way, then I cannot possibly understand why anyone would want to subject themselves to this kind of torture each and every night. -At one point in time in my life this could have been me but it wasn’t, thank you God!
@@lockandloadlikehellprojecting WHAT? LMFAO. Clearly your reading comprehension skills are severely lacking. They’re saying PLENTY of people CHOOSE this. PLENTY of people WANT to travel like this. PLENTY don’t. Get over yourself, seriously. They weren’t saying “wahhh wahhh you’re a victim you chose this”.
Hotels know the : make, model, and color of all of the registered guests cars in the parking lot, and it is very easy for the front desk clerk to make a print out of this info and hand it to security. Your vehicle sticks out like a sore thumb. Also, security guards don't always use security vehicles... sometimes they are working patrol in their POW (personally owned vehicle).
I've been living in my Ford E350 with 90% of the time sleeping in hotel parking lots. My van is plain white roof rack with the couple ladders (construction van from the outside) but actually completely in stealth mode and never once had a knock on my door in the night,...
Simplest thing I do is look for apartment complexes in cities in nice areas and park on the street (not their parking lot) when I don't want to get a hotel for the night or passing through. Google the website apartment (fill in the blank) and then filter by highest rent to find expensive apartment in good locations. Besides always having mace/pepper spray and something to protect yourself if against things that go bang.
My husband and I feel your pain. Lol. We stealth camp in our van and this night you had is sooo similar to some of ours. Sometimes we nail it quickly. Sometimes not. One night while in a hotel parking lot a man and woman had a huge lovers quarrel smack behind our van. A nice hotel. We could hear everything they said. I was sooo nervous. It continued on and on so my husband slowly climbed out of the bed to the drivers seat, started the engine and took off in one fell swoop, leaving them in shock no doubt 😮😂 Another night we had a policeman knock and kindly told us we couldn’t park where we were and directed us to Dennys.
I don't know if I could handle the daily stress of not knowing where I was parking for the night, if it was safe and if I would get the dreaded 'knock' !
I lived in an RV for ten years. You get a sixth sense for where you can stay. I never in ten years stayed in a hotel parking lot. They're considered private property and a good way to get the dreaded middle of the night wake up, the police called on you or a ticket for trespassing. I always went to Walmart or truck stops. No problem in ten years! And please drive carefully while you're filming. You ran a red light.
Imagine knocking on someone’s house windows at night. These crazy people need to be arrested. She was doing no harm. Utterly inhumane. Everyone needs sleep. Disgusting behaviour. I can’t stand this society.
It is the hotels property, I say this as someone who also lives in a van. That being said, the amount of hatred and anger that stupid knock generated in this video was hard to put into words.
Oh my. I would have been in panic mode. You stayed so calm and handled the situation so well. I work at a Lowe's in NC. They allow truck drivers to park overnight so they may let vanlifers do the same. Maybe just another option. Stay safe out there
@BBare. It really depends on what area the person is in. I've been to places that were extremely safe walking around in the middle of the night by myself as a teen. Super quiet and peaceful places. Meanwhile, in my hometown, multiple women have nearly been kidnapped in broad daylight in the afternoon while out for a jog, and one of my friends was being stalked by 2 large men around a grocery store at night. Luckily, her male friend who drove her there and was waiting in the parking lot. She phoned him to come inside, and the 2 men backed off and left. My town is mainly one specific race, and the females here are highly desirable for human trafficking. Creeps even come here to lure kids into cars...It doesn't help that my race's rate for being kidnapped and unalived is higher because the police all over don't do anything or care. x') Even if we get physically attacked by strangers in the streets in other cities and towns, the cops are usually like, "Well, what did YOU DO to provoke them?" 🤦🏻♀️
Women are allways and where allways in history vulnerable. It will not change ever. Humans, men and women, children, dogs, cats are vulnerabke, like any life form. That means...be careful allways out there. Allways trust your instinct, gut feeling, combined with your experience and intelligence, knowledge.
General advice because I sleep in my car, I would go into one of those parking lots. I have less activity and some lighting. I don't go in anything that has to do with hotels or active stores or anything like that. Another good place we usually usually don't get harassed at also public buildings like libraries. there are some Walmart parking lots. You can get away with it without a problem you're doing the right thing your surroundings.
Along with cameras, you need to get you red or green LED lights, you can see fine inside, but no one can see any lights on in the Van. Please stay safe❤
Wow girl! I just made it (barely!!) through the KNOCK and am still amped up with you as if I were there! I have been there myself, and you managed to convey the precise heart stopping experience with all its nuances, the knocking on all three sides. Omgoodness I almost couldn’t stay with it! Really enjoy your realness 😊
Try to avoid downtown and other congested areas. These places often fall under multiple jurisdictions where local ordinances may prohibit overnight parking. Also parking may be more competitive and limited with stricter enforcement. If necessary, look for interstate truck and travel stops or businesses that permit overnight parking usually found in the more rural areas.
OMGoodness, I am so glad you are safe! I know you have to be tired. Hopefully, you can find better place so you can get a full night's rest. Safe travels!
I was wondering did you know there are Truck Stops like Love's that you can park sorta close to where they park the rigs so the drivers can sleep? They also have good breakfast and a hot shower. The big Truck Stops are more accommodating. You can also look for RV Parks. I live in one and they only charge $10 a night for Vans. They have bath houses that have showers and Washers and Dryers. It's safer than doing it like you are now. Your a single woman traveling alone, please use caution. I down sized and got a camper. I want to go smaller camper though. I will keep you in my prayers. May God Bless your travels and watch over you at night. ❤🙏❤🇺🇸❤
Too many hotels these days give their guests parking passes that are color coded for certain dates, or, as you found out in this case, have security watching round the clock. I'd actually be much more inclined to park at a rest stop (or rest area or welcome center, whatever it's called in a given area) outside of town the night before, then head into town in the daylight.
@@Gail-gf7km I think you missed the point. Neither the OP nor myself suggested that she had the RIGHT to park in the hotel parking lot. My comments were actually stating that it wasn't the best idea in the first place, and offering a better alternative.
Columbia South Carolina has Magnolia campground. It’s a must see. There is probably only 12 Rv/spots but the fresh eggs and the birds are so entertaining. Loved it. It’s a must see
Girl you need cameras! No more peaking out 👀 Not only can you see everything, but you can record what’s happening 👍🏻Just my two cents 🙂 Thanks for sharing! Safe travels 🚞
I've been traveling like you, for past 8 yrs. With crazy gas prices and cost of food, I am on now on a budget, Go to a truck stop, get a map of Loves, Flying Js, etc truck stops. Most 24/7 super center Walmarts allow parking, but ask security. I travel with a 80 lb German Shepard, Blue heeler, Rottweiler mix, I leave a window cracked open so he can smell and/or hear someone approaching my Motorhome. Happy travels dear
I live out of a van as well. I won't consider staying in a hotel parking lot. I've worked in a hotel for several years & that "free parking" at a hotel is for the paying guests, not us van dwellers. All the ones I'm familiar with have security cameras watching the lot & security to walk around theought he night.
Hi Allison, you are obviously a sharp and intelligent woman… I know you’ll do fine in whatever life you choose to invest your energy. You are a good person. Thanks. VRing is not for everyone, nor is living in a tiny house, nor is living in a creatively amazing space which we infuse us with all the love we can imagine (thanks John), all the caring & sharing availale to all of us. I’m getting ready to step into van life next year so’s I can go out (of town(s)) and see all the stars (& Milky Way)!!!!!!!!!!!!
Hotels with the name of a military installation attached to it aren’t on the base itself (except for a select few IHG properties) but are labeled as such to make it easier to find for those coming to the area to visit the base for whatever reason and need to make it easier to sort out which hotels are closest to the base itself.
She doesn't need to be in hotel parking lots anyway. Those cars are smash and grab targets of the hotel doesn't have security, and if they do have security she will be the target they are trained to spot.... Because in their mind "potential thief" is all they've been trained to identify. Especially around graduation time at a training base such as fort Jackson
Too stressful for me! By the time all the driving was done to find a place I think I'd of just got a room for the night and researched for the next night.
Karen, you little cutie! I bet you’re a strong woman… you can handle yourself, I know. Best of Luck in all your life, in all your journeys; may prosperity always seek you out.
I have never been bothered in a 24 hour Safeway parking lot, or any Safeway parking lot for that matter. Park close to the front of the store. It looks less suspicious. I would get out go and buy something and get back in the vehicle start snacking on whatever I bought and fell asleep in the car and nobody ever bothered me. I doubt you’ll be bothered in the van it’s when you park on the outskirts of the parking lot that people take notice.
You are correct. The reason people do get noticed is because once they pull in they screw around with their phones or organize their vehicle. you do that at the gas station around the corner BEFORE ur final destination. Get to ur spot and go to SLEEP.
I have done it. It is exhausting. But all parts of the lifestyle are. You have to get up and find coffee or tea. Then you have to find or get to the showering place. Then you have to get to an eatery. It all takes so much energy and time, there is no way you could look for a job or likely hold one down. You save alot of money though. Rent is taxed. Expecially if you know enough people that you can sometimes have housesitting or pet sitting to break the monotony. It can be worth it.
I always march right up to the hotel desk clerk, show them a picture of my vehicle (if they can’t see it from where they are), slap down a $5 bill, and politely ask if I can “pay for a spot to rest for a few hours?” They ALWAYS say yes, and thank me for being honest and straightforward and for respecting the fact that they are in the business of making money, not running a free Rest Stop. I suspect the desk clerk pockets the $5, but what do I care? I don’t get hassled. In the morning I stop by and thank them, and sometimes they give me coffee! Best wishes on your future attempts!
Thats what we said too. If it is only for one night , you will likely get a yes.
100% amen to this, they see a van and have no idea who is inside. Just parking and trying to dodge security on private property is way more sketchy than just going in and asking.
I was thinking the same thing. Honesty is so much easier than being sneaky.. Her attitude gives me anxiety.. So dishonest.. just tell the knocker
i used to be a night auditor at a hotel and i was always told by my manager to run off people sleeping in their vans. it pained me to do it because at that time i lived in my van and knew how much i hated hearing "knock". best i thing i can say is go to a walmart or some grocery store and part as far away from the entrances as u can. great way to not get spotted doing vanlife
That’s a good tip
Too stressful to live like this. I need an apartment and definitely a bedroom indoors. Stay Safe, your very sweet
For some people it’s not a choice.
@annarodriguez6808 Tell me about it. I would never feel safe wandering around the world like that no knowing where it's safe to sleep and I'm too castrophobic to live in a vehicle of any size.
@@annarodriguez6808 I’m a 65 yo lady, and I feel very safe in my RV. I have great locks, security cameras, and weapons. I sleep soundly. 😊
Actually you're not that safe in your house nowadays. Dangerous people can get into any house, etc. they want to enter. These people are pros at planning and figuring these things out. Stay prayed up. Psalm 91
Gosh, I worry so much when I see women traveling alone in vans/RVs. Is there any way you could do this with a friend or family member…sorry to pry, I’m just concerned for you.
Truck stops like Flying J offer everything and free safe parking. Use them.
@@harleyriderstitcher3951 The only downside is that it can be active all night with truck jake brakes as they're coming in, people slamming their doors and talking as they're going in and out of the convenience store, etc.
Usually flying J or pilot has parking lots off and away that’s huge so they can have a lil more quietness
Also #LovesTruckStop❤ 1:27
I read a nurse's comment in a similar video that hospital parking lots were very safe to park and sleep. They are monitored with security cameras. She said that families of people in the ER or hospital often take time to sleep out in their cars and therefore are not disturbed. Maybe everyone should add that to their potential list of places to sleep safely.
Maybe they shouldn’t!
Not to mention, you can always walk in and find a nice clean bathroom.
Hospitals charge parking. At least $3 an hour sometimes more.
Well I don't think it would be a nurse in UK saying that, where hospital parking is very expensive and my local hospital is known for vehicles being vandalised
Most definitely not safe at any hospital in my city
Hard to believe you actually let down the window!🤦🏾♀️ Just because he was wearing a uniform means nothing. Be careful out there!
I got creeped out when I heard the knocking....I do agree with you...
You didn't hear the sound of a round being chambered?
She had a gun
@@miguel360kmc doesn't matter...criminals know hoe yo easily disarm people. If she had a gun, all she needed to do was to say so...or show it..but certainly not roll the window down. 🙄
@@denicebrookssings not sure where you're getting this impression of criminals from but there isn't some class that teaches criminals to disarm someone.
You have to think realistically what type of "criminal" is going to try and break into a van. Which would be junkies for the most part looking for a quick and easy score seeing a person male or female is enough to scare half of them away gun or no. Point is a master criminal isn't breaking into vans in a hotel parking lot.
And if they are a glass window up or down isn't going to make much of a difference is it?
@@miguel360kmc ok🤣🤣🤣
It doesn’t seem like much fun to have to look for a place to park every night and to have to move and to have to worry about who is knocking at your door. I felt stressed out just watching your video. It felt very real!
I slept in my Honda Element for two months. At first it was somewhat adventurous but after awhile it definitely was not fun....but it's a have to do so.....if you are living in a vehicle
..there isn't a choice in the matter.
You need an outside camera!
@@arettadavis5935I wouldn't be able to sleep very well. I would sleep during the day and driving at night.
@@janepilkington9293 you cant. i was homeless and lived in car. scary. people will not leave you alone scared all the time.
I agree and it can be very dangerous for wømen
As an expeditor, I would always find a Pilot, Flying J or a Love's Truck Stops to stay the night in every time. People park overnight in those places all the time and I never had an issue doing so. I was in my late fifties and what was real nice was I was able to use the restrooms and get showers at these places as well. They are a lot safer to stay in then Walmart or rest stops. Just thought I would let you know. Please be safe, young lady, and God bless!!!
Uhh Walmart is perfectly fine
@@lockandloadlikehell I was kicked outa several Walmart parking lots, but never once was I ever kicked out of truck stops as long as I didn't park in the back with the big rigs! Walmarts aren't always available for over night parking!
There's a Love's truck stop near my house. There are two girls in a van that have been living there for eight months and I keep telling them to just get a job there already 😁 This video girl passed a Buc-ees in Florence that would have worked.
@@TheCindlbergen That is a good suggestion for the gals that continue to stay at the same truck stop. I always felt safe sleeping at truck stops. My interactions with truckers was always pretty positive for the most part as long as I didn't park my Promaster Van in the back where they parked. Truckers can get a little testy when they ain't gotta a place to park for their bigger rigs! I never blamed them for that a bit either, because they only have some many hours a day they can be on the road and then they are forced to pull over by their trucking apps to rest for so many hours a day or they get huge fines. When I delivered busses and truck chassis's I had to follow trucking apps as well. It's a royal pain in the Bahama Bootie! I loved my expeditor job because I didn't have that hassle of following those trucking laws! My loads were smaller and so was my van! You would not believe how great it was not worrying about clearances, weigh stations, and some states require permits for commercial vehicles to travel through them! If you ever get into the truck driving lifestyle, I suggest an expeditor job! I miss doing it!
@@lockandloadlikehell Walmart is not fine. Some areas there is very high crime and robberies. The truck stops are a lot safer. Rest stops at night are high risk.
Of all the Vanlife pages I belong too, this one was the most real I've seen. This shows the struggles that I haven't thought about while wanting to do this. Makes me think twice.
Thank you for watching and for your nice comment!
You are looked at a homeless. It didn't matter to them. You can not even park on the streets. Even when there is plenty of space. This is what it is like for the truly poor. I'm not even talking about drug addicts. I'm talking about those who no longer have a job. Life the roof over thier heads. Some whole families. The usually go to the woods and camp out until they find jobs. They are removed from the woods too. There is nowhere fir people to go when this happens. Out gov needs to pass laws that pay his Ruth the time. These businesses can afford it. They have more money than any y one would ever need for generations.
Excluding tiny businesses. Where they should not be allowed to take from their tips. Most do not msg that amount. Navy restaurants don't allow employees to keep their tips. Owner's them. Always ask if tips go to the employee.
I work at a hotel... as a night auditor... off a main highway and we dont run tired people thats obviously traveling off site. We'd prefer people not to drive so tired they might crash. Plus most of the time travelers grab a 2-4 hour nap and theyre up and going for the day
💜
You guys are good people. Where I live the hotel folk will run you off.
Some hotels will have you towed if you park there just to eat at an Ihop or Dennys these days.
That is very considerate of your establishment. I imagine most won’t. That is their business, renting rooms so I can’t say that I necessarily blame them.
@@mightymarsha Very smart and kind. What you explained is exactly what happened to me once doing a 3 hour drive late at night i was almost home but my eyes wouldn’t stay open I slept a few hours woke didn’t know where i was lol and felt so much better after sleeping and took off to do the rest of the drive home.
The idea of traveling is so seductive. The idea of driving all night to find a place to sleep, not so much. I have to admit that I'd be very scared to hear a knock, especially as a woman traveling alone. I'm going to keep up prayers for you and your well-being.
I was wondering about that.. maybe a camera like a ring type outside.. wouldn't be helpful without wifi or phone signal though 🤔
Research is important..when a woman is a Van Lifer..
If I don't see already know where I'm stopping for the night, I'll stop driving about 1 pm and look for a place.
@@huckleberrychris Another thought.. police in small towns are finally getting used to "Van-lifers" that have TH-cam channels. I follow about 15 accounts of Van Lifer's, RV's Van's remodeled,car Lifer's. A ton of these individuals and families travel for work ". Any event..just be careful. Not all police will be nice ...to single women traveling across the country. They always think that people are engaging in something illegal. Stay safe ladies. 🥀📿🙏
No doubt this weirdo saw her earlier, knew there was awoman alone inside. No male would ever do this to snother male who could kick his face off. I would’’ve got out the bear spray and given him a big blast in the face. Then called the cops. Short of that I would’ve left!! Just drive the hell away.. This is crazy men harass men this way. It never stops. There is little accountability. This is what I fear most about this sort of living. Men follow me for miles and miles in my car as it is now. It’s ridiculous.
The problem is--so many people are now living out of the vans--they are everywhere! I ran errands today, and saw a few van dwellers in both parking lots of the major stores. How do I know? It's a warm day, and they had their doors open you could see their beds and they were clearly living in them. The businesses are afraid of becoming "van cities" and keeping buyers or business away. It's going to get harder--because more and more people are having to live out of their vehicles as rents have gotten so high.
It’s cheaper than todays’ democratic State rent, I live in a Uber /Lyft/ door dash car. Sometimes people could smell my dirty drawls and dishes under the storage panels.
Get water, detergent, and find a laundry mat.
The library in my next town over just put up signs in the parking lot not allowing homeless or anybody to congregate their after closed hours and also in the parking lot, no parking when the library is closed. My guess is that homeless or those in vans or old broken rv’s were making a mess or causing trouble. It seems to be getting harder and harder to find a spot here that allows overnight parking as even my local grocery stores have signs stating no parking after store is closed. It might also be an issue of safety for those that are just wanting a restful night but perhaps the homeless in the area were bothering others? I don’t know.
I lasted 7 days sleeping in my conversion in New Orleans. Found a decent route of 5 sleeping spots but the last two nights i was witness to a gun fight and the last night i was there a group of teenagers were busting up the car behind me right after i made dinner.. i prompted jumped in the front and drove away asap.. i left the city the following day.. going back to Arizona now to regroup myself and figure out where i want to go next.. be safe out there y'all and always trust your gut
🎵 "New Orleans, it's a wonderful town, but if you're by yourself, be out by sundown..."🎶
Welcome (sorry it’s been a year) but THIS is 1984 plus Idiocracy. Facts
This has to be very unsettling to look for lodging every night. My anxiety would send me through the roof! Wishing you safety in your endeavors. 🤗
Yesssss I Totally Agrees...don't wont to keep hunting a spot to sleep...Soo scary 😳 👈🏾💯💯
Some people like me have no choice
Anxiety? What causes that? You need to exercise, that helps with a lot of physical and mental illness
You get used to it..the fear is real but it after awhile its nothing.
It would get exhausting having to think everyday where you were going to park that night. It's either out in the sticks or desert somewhere or pay for camp site for security and peace of mind. Sounds like you have to be constantly thinking, planning organizing, stocking up and moving on. You need to have a destination and your route, stops etc. worked out.
The second you pulled in and I saw that car sitting there with the lights on I said, “Oh no, girl.” Lol I definitely never park where cars are just sitting. Never good news. 🤣🤣
Wait, someone makes the choice to live out of a van and gets upset that the world doesn't bend over backward to accommodate their lifestyle?
@@coldhardtruth8428 Bending over backwards to accommodate their lifestyle?? That's a bit of a stretch, don't you think?? RV/van lifers are just looking to experience the beauty of the world as opposed to being a hamster on a wheel. Sheesh.
@@coldhardtruth8428 show us where they said people should do that?
@@coldhardtruth8428 are you serious? Choices are usually due to no rentals nvm affordable! 😘🇨🇦🙋🏻♀️what works are you living in love? Show compassion. Stuff happens in life.
Interesting lesson learned about "active" parked cars. Thanks,
As for the other commenters: Go lurk elsewhere, you Orks.
What the blazes are you doing in a site like this with your crap-dash attitude?
The best protection i ever had while sleeping in my van was Bulletz and Wolf my two German shepherds!! each of them curled up and slept on the two front seats,, If they heard anything they sat right up and no one ever messed with me or my van,I aylways slept great and felt very safe,.
I also travel with my 2 GSD's, I can tell you are as grateful to have your dogs as I am. Best protection ever!
I have 2 German shepards, this past summer we spent a whole month camping in the mountains ❤
That's why I have Dobermans. O e look and people walk the other way.
I miss sleeping in my van.😢
yea but then u were in a small space with two nasty ass dogs
You passed a hospital on your way to your first idea. Their parking lots can be a good place to stay.
@@susangoodman4925 A nurse posted the exact same on another channel. She said it's safe to park there overnight because a hospital have security who make their rounds and " patients" families or family members often sleep in the cars. She said many are nomads and the hospital security do not bother them.
I live in my van (I'm just homeless, not trying to travel and do "VanLife"). But I've had very good luck sleeping in hospital parking lots. Occasionally, a security guard has knocked and asked me if I needed help (since I was parked for a long time at a hospital). I just tell them I needed a safe place to sleep, and they go about their business. Most of the time, I'm not noticed or bothered at all
Cost of living? In-between work or what's going on?
@@ChrisF-fx5du Hundreds of thousands of dollars in medical bills for the past several years, basically. I am on disability .And the housing market where I live has tripled rent prices. I am just doing what I can do to get by
Good idea!!! Smart.
I wish you much luck & improved situation in your life. Blessings from FL.
@@mlaurynn8567 Thank you so much 🙏
You have given the public a bird's eye view of what truly a Vanlifer goes through.
come on its security guard, and its illegal to park without staying at hotel property, its was her fault not ask for permision, and the click bait picture in the video are like clickbait to make them like a thief or burgar knocking the door?????
Not really..
If security knocks in the middle of the night and you don't respond, will you wake up to find yourself being towed?
I had a couple of thugs climb on the roof of my motorhome once when I was parked in my hometown. It's disturbing that people have no respect for you and your own property.
Did you drive off with them on the roof? I would have!
Welcome to America
@@doughurd-s3q Some guys jumped on my stepdad's truck in Mexico. He told my mom to hang on. It's going to be a bumpy ride. He did a zig zag and then drove straight real fast and slammed on the breaks. The guys were yelling and falling off the truck.
Some guys jumped on the back of my stepdad's truck in Mexico. He drove from side to side and straight real fast and slammed on the brakes. The guys were yelling and falling off the truck.😅
@@whitelacey333Look at my comment.
If you have a Planet Fitness membership they often don't mind you parking outside! (as long as its one of the 24 hour ones). It feels so great to get a workout, have a good night's sleep, wake up and take a shower, then head out. I have a school bus with bright paintings and two dogs that need bedtime walks so I'm not stealthy at all, but I've never gotten the knock at a gym so far. I always let them know I'm there and then pick a quiet spot in the back. I've also seen people parking at YMCA and Golds, even though those aren't 24 hours.
good info.
and memberships are only $10 a month
Homeless people join and are able to take a shower and brush their teeth
I bet they have security cameras, I plan on just doing some travelling in the warmer months, campgrounds/ truck stops have showers which are better than any van shower and I don't see the point in paying for one for my camper van, I did not know that they would let you park and sleep at planet fitness, now I'm thinking it would be worth the membership, thanks for the tip!
I’m not sure if you always just pull in. I would recommend backing in… that way if you ever need to exit quickly you are in a safer situation. Have you tried 24 hr stores, gyms and gas stations? Places where cameras are on you? That’s my recommendation for safety.
OK there are cameras but most don't have security guards 24 7. And calling cops sheesh they're never available or on time to help save you from real danger. Plus the constant noise no thanks.
I called the police station one evening in a familiar town I was visiting but was having trouble finding parking. They were so friendly and gave me a few places I could go.
That’s a great idea.
Thank you. TURNED OUT GREAT . GOT TO PARK RIGHT ON THE LAKE.
Same when I was in Wilmington NC
There we go ... 👍👍👍 excellent MaryAnn 👌
Sometimes the police will let you park right there
You also have to be aware about people wearing fake security uniforms. Definitely don’t get out of your vehicle in a situation like that. You can get those uniforms anywhere. So if they ask you to get out do not listen, they have no reason to ask that.
You need a companion dog like a German Sheppard... That way, when you are asleep in your van, that dog will always be on guard.
The German Shepherds are loyal and will fight to the death to protect you.
@alirussell-hayward6279 It wouldn't matter.
If you walk them in the day or the night... To do their business or otherwise... They are a twenty four hour protector regardless where you are. A Cane Corso,German Shepard..., Any kind of dog like that. If I was single on the road that would be my companion and protector !!!
Yes!
Dogs are gross af though IN A HOUSE. I'll be damned if I'm having dogs living in a tiny little space like a van with me 😂
Who lives in a Van???
Not I.
Have you ever parked overnight in hospital parking lots? I’ve heard it’s a good option from a van life former nurse.
ER patient lot works. Nobody wonders if the vehicle doesn't move for 10 hours.
They parol here too and usually they are paid lots.
Our hospitals charge for parking.
@@Clothed-with-His-Glory I’ve never had to pay at hospitals for parking but even if you do have to pay in a pinch because you can’t find a spot to safely park overnight, it would still be cheaper than paying for a camping site.
If you park in a hospital parking lot, please don't take spaces anywhere near the ER at any time of day. Go to an empty area of the lot to leave room for the people who are actually staying at the hospital or are seeking treatment. In larger urban areas, most hospitals charge a lot for parking, it isn't free parking, and also there are never enough spaces for those who actually need them to be with a patient in the hospital or at the ER. Maybe using a hospital parking spot in a smaller town or city, but please don't do it in an urban area. You can probably get away with it, but know you are hurting people.
The whole risk of having a knock in the middle of the night would raise my anxiety every night. It’s just more intense when it’s knocking on your car as opposed to your home I don’t know.
VERY SCARY traveling alone, then to hear somebody knocking😳 Prayers for your safety.
I lived in my SUV in a big city for almost 5 months. A couple of truck stops, a casino, a mixed retail/college campus area with parking garages and parking along a creek.... but my favorite was the top floor of a hospital parking garage. I had my own little corner that I felt sooo comfortable at night! 🤗
Yes! Hospital parking lots, whether an open lot or in a parking garage, are very good for parking overnight. It's the nature of what they do there that means people arrive at all hours and can sometimes stay for days at a time.
@@livinginthenowand I just remembered a couple of other spots that I slept at... Cracker Barrel and Walmart. My "little corner of the world" was by far the absolute best because no foot traffic just randomly passed by me through the lot. ☺✌
How much did u pay for parking at the hospital? Mo in NJ
That's cool ! ... I'd think that would be comforting...❤✌
@@vickilssrb4405 I always think it's interesting to hear where people Park when in a city, because that is something I've not yet done after all these years. I stick to Forestry and I'm only dealing with animals for the most part .... I think I've only had a couple of situations where thugs approached my vehicle in the woods ... but when you live in Wisconsin, we handle things a little differently , ... pretty-much everyone is packing Firearms when you're in the wilderness, so there's not much fear.
The worst thing that I can recall happening to me was a black bear climbed on top of the hood of my Isuzu Trooper when I was sleeping in the back with my German Shepherd. That happened in the Oneida Forestry ..... he probably smells the dog food inside.
I would be terrified to try and live and travel in a van by myself. I admire you that you can do this. You are so much braver than I am. Prayers for your safe travels.
I always find a place at least two hours before dark. I prefer to camp in the wilderness if possible and I avoid towns and cities at all costs. It's just too crazy out there. Outside cameras are a must with lighting and always be armed. You should have looked for a truck stop and parked with the truckers, there is always someone there and they are used to people parking. Good luck.
As much as I love the idea of having my home with me wherever I go, It's the nighttime I don't think I could deal with.
Me too. I don't think I would ever get a good night's sleep.
I promise you it's not as scary as it seems. Especially when you are camping in regular camping areas and places that are designated for nomadic living. When I'm actually on the road I only go to truck stops and rest areas. Anything else you stand a chance of a knock at your door. I feel safer in my van than I did my home.
@@amyschaefer1140 Three years...solo female,75,Nomad...I have parked everywhere you can imagine...No problems,No issues
Generally on registering for a hotel room you have to give them your plate number, so they know your are a patron. I can see staying in a hotel lot could be risky. Stay safe out there.
Me too. With all the weird things going on in the world it's scary. There are too many creeps out there. But I hope she stays safe and secures the van.
Cracker barrel and Cabela's I don't know if they have them there but those are usually two very safe places to overnight in the parking lot
Is there any way you can put cameras on the outside of your van to see the surroundings or if anyone is out there knocking?
Yes there's RV and van cameras available to install
That is exactly what I was thinking 💭 too about cameras 📷
Hope you called the cops on the weird guy?
That's a perfect idea. Many 20-somethings always have outside cameras..on their van's and RV's. I follow a diverse group of accounts on TH-cam.
Great idea
I am at Nomad and the rule of thumb is find a place by three and in by five give or take I have used this practice it works for me. God bless you and hope to see you out there.
You might want to park right next door to one of those big commercial trucks, one of those that has traffic cones out. You’re not right in front of the hotel but out of sight. You might want to create a dummy antitheft indicator right next to your driver side door. It’s going to be a dummy antitheft lock and red led light. Just like some folks put out dummy cameras on their front porch’s. Make the security guard think that they’re going to have a car alarm start blasting off at 2 Am and waking everybody up.
Yeah I noticed as you drove in to the area there was two commercial vehicles parked there just before you got to the parking lot itself and out of sight of the hotel itself. That might be a good vehicle. Van camp in a converted commercial vehicle. I’ve seen several times where someone converted a box truck. From the outside you’ll never know someone is sleeping inside. They’re disguised that well you’ never guess that someone was asleep inside in apartment luxury. Most box trucks have a partition that closes the cab area off from rest of the truck. So if the lot security guards are looking at the truck they really can’t see anything. One other conversion they most likely wouldn’t mess with would be a vehicle that did an electrical repairs after a hurricane. You know the kind I’m talking about the kind that goes into other states to help local crews repair their electrical infrastructure.
I had the same thought as she drove by those trucks, and your idea of the "threat" of a potential car alarm is genius!
Kinda feel like asking a hotel if you can sleep in their parking lot is like asking a restaurant if you can BBQ in their parking lot.
I agree. Kind of like a slap in the face. 😲
Yeah, I agree. When I stay at Cracker Barrell, I end up eating there at night and then again in the morning. It just seems right. I wouldn't think of staying at a motel unless I was checking in.
🤣 I’ve never thought of out that way, but you have a point. 😊
Wht about truck stops ?
I think you have a point there
Please don't EVER open your window. Talk through the glass. (Even a uniform doesn't mean he works there.) Also, I have a red, steering wheel lock to deter anyone from even trying to break in overnight. (even in the day as a deterrant. They're looking for a quick steal.). I'm also armed, and hope you are too. Women on the road can't be too careful. ❤
The red locks, you hack saw through steering wheel slight bend and pull steering lock off its roughly 46 seconds to do by hand, if powered its 8 seconds.
@@OgglyGooglyu don’t even need to saw through those (club) steering wheel locks u can use antifreeze spray in the lock n it breaks in like 5 seconds.
Being armed can be good or terribly bad. There are no common gun laws and even having one in the van could get you imprisoned in some states. If you choose to be armed obtain a carry permit from a state with reciprocity with a large number of other state and know the law in every state you enter.
@@OgglyGoogly -Those few seconds gives you all the time you need to get up front, pull the slide back on your pewpew, put it to the back of his head, and say "Get out or die!"
@@mainemermaid6596 if you in the car a pick of the door you in before they even awake so no you dont have any seconds to react.
You can also release gas into the van while they asleep so no.
Come to the Cracker Barrel at Exit 80 on I 20 on Columbia. Very safe and I work there.
The higher end hotels often have security AND they register your vehicle plates. I once got the knock at a really nice resort hotel in Pagosa Springs, Colorado. I’ve never had a problem at mid-range hotels in a good neighborhood.
I find hospitals and churches work well or neighborhoods that have a lot of cars parked on the street.
It's getting more and more difficult to find places to sleep in a car or van, and there is a lot of weird people running around
Why you gotta talk about me?? Geez😒
Not really. You can literally park on the side of the road in a van or car. yes the police might come and knock on your window at some point, but you're not doing anything wrong or illegal and they should recommend you getting some rest over driving anyway...... It's much harder if you're in a rig n logged out of time to drive n the truck stop you was planning on going to is full.....this just extra extra n trying to avoid that knock.
They need to make an app that shows where it’s safe to park, for people living in their cars!
iOverlander
There are several.
Ioverlander
Are you serious?
They have them they are called safe places to park to sleep
A fríend who was a ranger said she would put her hand on the bumper and knock. If she felt the van/car moving she knew someone was inside. If you hear the knock- don’t move!
But to be honest- it’s hard NOT to immediately sit up and move 😝
I don’t understand what you mean?
Nah, you want them to know someone is there otherwise they may want to break in because it's empty.
Or tow
I’m in over the road truck driver and my advice to you is not to park at Walmarts. Some of them will have your vehicle booted and it will cost you a tremendous amount of money to have that removed. You should try to find parking in outer suburbs, not in the downtown area and get yourself some trucking apps like flying J loves TA Petro you can usually park in the front lots of those for free and they’re well lit and the staff inside can see your vehicle and nobody will bother you
Yes, truck stops are the best
I’ve seen tons of videos where the people say Walmart allows overnight camping in their parking lots.
100% this, very good advice.
3:10 I'm not sure if anybody explained this or if you knew, but that trumpeting was actually from the military base you where saying was nearby! I grew up close to one and this trumpeting is a nightly occurrence, though I don't remember what it's for. Hope this cleared up any confusion anybody reading this might have had!
@errerrare ...... the trumpeter was sounding ( playing ) can't remember - as in lights out, sleep tight. Revellie is the ' time to wake up folks ' sounding.
@maryearll3359 It's called Taps. It's comforting, to me.
Allison, get a remote start installed.
Carry bear spray
Also find a camera system for your van. One you can monitor from the back.
Also, if someone starts knocking. Don’t turn on any lights.
If you do want lights. Get some red lighting. Less noticeable from the outside.
Really good ideas
Very good tips! Thx!
Get a house.
I've carried hornet spray at the ready it's saved me from dangerous people , animals many times over my 71 year's . My niece drives a semi truck I suggested she carry hornet spray being a lady exspecially . She always wears work clothes ,boots , work jacket , jeans , yet still gets creeped out every ounce in awhile at a truck parking by the few creepy men in the world . I'm sure these types of people creep everyone out worse I think it's criminal to .
I wouldn't recommend using any spray on the security doing their jobs.
Being more organized will take away stressful situations. Always know exactly where you are going before you start the day.
At least pick some good spots and scope them out before you're exhausted. The aimlessness just shows she isn't thinking clearly.
100% this -
People said that truck stops are very safe, and places like cracker barrel have places to park your RV or Van
It depends where the truck stop is if it's safe.
Or people with social issues,or the Ted Cross out people up that have to be watched. Plus some hotels have drug dealers delivering drugs who pull up and wait for tenants to come out. Hotels are never a good idea to stealth in for these reasons
As soon as you said Columbia, SC I was like noooooooo.
I live not far from there and it's terrible. I would never stay there, even in a hotel I wouldn't feel safe.
We park at hotels all the time ... just go in, tell them you're traveling and just need a safe place to park while you rest ... we've never been told no.
You've clearly never tried that in Florida.
@lanimccarthy2848 you're correct, we haven't ... do rest areas there
😞Knocking is @18:45
💡Find a 24 hr gym and park there - that works for me 100% of the time.
💡I’ve taken road trips all over the country and I know hotel lots are iffy a lot of the good ones have stealth security people in the lot - they see you before you ever see them. I usually plan to sleep overnight at Rest Stops, 24 hr gyms, neighborhood streets in safe areas, Cabela’s, and free parking garages / parking decks. I have always been creeped out at Cracker Barrel & Walmart lots. My spirit can’t seem to calm down or relax, not sure why so I don’t even try those locations anymore. 🤷🏻♀️
👍Safe travels. 💝
Don’t forget hospital parking lot
@@BrendaLee8 - 👍True for some cities. Again, you have to pay attention and see if they have security “knocking on doors”.
Great Idea, and if it's a national chain you can get a membership and have a place to shower .
@@topherbec7578 - 👍🤩Oh for sure, that’s what I meant…I should have said that to be clear. I definitely only park overnight at gyms that I have a membership to use. 💝
How about gas stations? I know you mentioned the gym, will anything 24 hrs work, Dunkin Mc ds?
Hotels offer parking usually. You pay a small fee , they give you a sticker to put on your van. Be safe❤
I’m buying my van this year. From watching your videos and others I know to ensure thicker glass, autu security bright lights, ect… I value my life and refuse to step out half assed
“Arrive Late, Leave Early”, is good advice.
Entirely irrelevant to this video tho
I'm a vanlifer and can relate to what you go through here. Although it only happened once, I was kicked out of a casino parking lot. I avoid hotels (last choice) and prefer Cracker Barrel. I like your van, I can't stand up in mine lol. Thanks for the good advice. Blessed and safe travels.
I so much appreciate you sharing a real life scenario, and tips for finding spots in a new area. Happy travels!
When my sister travelled in her RV, see would often attend churches for services or events along the way and when she would ask them if she could park overnight they usually said yes. Just a tip if you do the same thing.
Usually church folk are pretty cordial
I would be much too nervous to travel alone and especially park and sleep in the van. It looks like great fun but there are too many dangerous people who need to be taken off the streets. I really enjoy this type of video.. I wish for you a safe and easy travel path. I hope you know Jesus and you talk to him every day.
Absolutely. 🙏🙏❤️
In the near future for your safety never let your window down. Talk to them through the closed window. And then just leave. You never know if they are who they say they are.
Absolutely never roll down your window or Open Your Door and always make sure you are locked inside -- with your keys and your phone near your side at all times.
How can you hear each other through the window then?
@@ms.pirate ....oops, I posted a comment reply that was meant for one of my own videos, that's why I deleted it, sorry about that ✌
@@ms.pirate you should be able to hear through a closed window . Unless you have a hearing problem.
What a lot of hassle?! The more I see of van life videos, the more I wouldn’t want to do it. I’m grateful for my home, and my nice warm bed.
@@catherinep1800 van life..just like homeless with a vehicle
Gotta tell you….I’d be FREAKED if someone kept knocking like that. 😳
The only way i would do full time is to stay in campgrounds. Trying to find a place to sleep every night would be extremely stressful to me. i wouldn't sleep well and would not be at peace. I need peace.
Walmart is fine.
campgrounds are ok if you have a decent income. It will cost you 200 bucks per week to stay.
You need external solar motion detector lights and a go cam or ring cam to see all around your van. Then a huge dog. Or a recording of a very large loud dog. I’d travel like you do, but the great recommendations for staying at Flying Jays, or one of the huge truck stops sounds best. They are always open, have traffic, security, and showers, bathrooms, food. Be safe. People can be so crazy. Bless your travels!
I admire your analytical skills in searching up a safe sleeping spot.
I tried minivan life for only 2 weeks but failed because when I'm tired, it's so frustrating to have to go to 3 or 4 or more places just trying to find a safe spot to sleep.
Your success and good attitude is a testament to your tenacity, but at the same time, it pisses me off that you should have to go through this.
With the growing need for people to choose van life, there should be accommodations made somehow to provide legal and safe parking.
Unfortunately, if the PTB cared, the need would not be growing.
@@bnellaniyahyeap. It really makes me angry that America is turning into where this is becoming a necessity. It's better than being homeless on the street though
I work as a Security Officer for one of the major companies in the US. The most common reason for Security to be in a parking lot in a regular car is on a new acct. That car was either a company paid rental, or an officer's personal vehicle if the account is so new that a rental was not yet arranged. Most marked vehicles are actually owned by the security company. My guess is that hotel has had security in their lot for 6 months or less.
Lately. Crime is up everywhere. Gotta be careful
@@onemoreday1550 That's exactly what the security officer was doing. Making sure his post was safe.
Thank you for your kind, professional and informative response 👍
I e worked security for many years. A lot of officers monitor the parking lot in their personal vehicle due to the working just that property. Not worth having a company vehicle there if it’s not needed.
As a van lifer it might be cool to get into security work
I live in Murrell's inlet, you can park that in my yard anytime, it's very safe. Columbia isn't a place I'd want to even get a hotel.
20 years ago as a teenager I moved out living out of my jeep Cherokee in Walmart parking lots for a couple of weeks. Was wondering if you have a reason for not overnighting at truck stops, or maybe you do stay in those sometimes. Enjoyed your video. Then totally understand a van sticks out much more than smaller vehicle in those parking lots. Pretty unsettling to have somebody going around banging on your sheet metal and then your window. At least it happened only a few minutes after you got there so you weren’t woken up.
Hello Steve. I know this is late but thank you for your extremely special post. My mum passed at home with us from a cardic arrest. One day here ,next day no more conversations and no one to call 'MUM' Steve you rock ,you are the only camping dude I watch. Wish you could come to New Zealand.
The hotel may have added security either because too many vehicle dwellers had been staying there... or because it’s a sketchy neighborhood and there have been robberies, causing the hotel to lose business. Honestly, I can’t imagine driving so long just to find a place to sleep, that’s pretty tough. Glad you found a spot and it was peaceful.
I lived in Columbia and know the area. The overall neighborhood of that hotel isn't bad, but there's an extended stay hotel just two doors down from it that could have an iffy traffic flow. So that might have influenced the hotel security situation. If she had just driven over the big intersection(next to the Denny's) she would have been at one of Columbia's largest hospitals and probably could have blended in with the vehicles there.
A lot of hotels in the South have security. I didn't know hotels in other places didn't.
Or that's just their level normal level of security and he saw her pull in and not get out. Could be as simple as that.
The weinermobile did have its catalytic converter stolen recently.
When I was driving trucks in the early 2000s I40 was the worst. One day it took more than 20 hours to find a parking space.
My main reason why not upgrading to a van. Love that I can park my SUV anywhere and not be noticed.
This happened to me while just traveling in my truck. I pulled into a fast-food restaurant and got food and then pulled into a spot in what looked like a vacant hotel and was sitting there eating when a guy from inside the hotel comes to my window asking if I needed a room. Weird. Just leave people alone who are not bothering anyone or anything.
When you aren't a paying customer, you are trespassing. They can call the police and have you removed and cited for trespassing.
I had not committed an offense and there were no signs saying that only guests could park there. And I wasn't parked at the front of the building, I actually parked in a spot closest to the street. But here in lies the problem. Society has become so diligent with the "you can't do that" attitude, that they are making mountains out of mole hills. Let the innocent stuff go. I was literally there 10 minutes. I wasn't going to camp there.@@F_e_l_i_x_
@@F_e_l_i_x_no duh. That's not the point . You obviously don't have to worry about where to sleep
This was so unnerving and extremely uncomfortable to watch. It gave major anxiety vibes! I felt SO bad not only for her but just simply watching it because no one deserves to live this way. My heart truly goes out to those who have to live this way and I commend you for doing what you’ve got to do and just making it👏🏼👏🏽👏🏾👏👏🏿👏🏻because I get that but if you do not HAVE to live this way, then I cannot possibly understand why anyone would want to subject themselves to this kind of torture each and every night. -At one point in time in my life this could have been me but it wasn’t, thank you God!
This is not a way people HAVE to live, it's how they CHOOSE to live. Not all nights are like this. It's only because she's parking in the city.
I will be doing this with me and my little girl because I cannot afford rent anymore. Not everyone is lucky enough to have choices
If you think that's toture, youve lived a very sheltered life
@@camiv5640nope- it was definitely HAVE to
You're projecting again.
@@lockandloadlikehellprojecting WHAT? LMFAO. Clearly your reading comprehension skills are severely lacking. They’re saying PLENTY of people CHOOSE this. PLENTY of people WANT to travel like this. PLENTY don’t. Get over yourself, seriously. They weren’t saying “wahhh wahhh you’re a victim you chose this”.
I could not live like this… I would never sleep😂… stay safe out there ❤
It's all part of the adventure
What's funny?🤔🙄✌️
@@strongwoman2668 yr comment 8months later….
Hotels know the : make, model, and color of all of the registered guests cars in the parking lot, and it is very easy for the front desk clerk to make a print out of this info and hand it to security. Your vehicle sticks out like a sore thumb. Also, security guards don't always use security vehicles... sometimes they are working patrol in their POW (personally owned vehicle).
I've been living in my Ford E350 with 90% of the time sleeping in hotel parking lots. My van is plain white roof rack with the couple ladders (construction van from the outside) but actually completely in stealth mode and never once had a knock on my door in the night,...
Simplest thing I do is look for apartment complexes in cities in nice areas and park on the street (not their parking lot) when I don't want to get a hotel for the night or passing through. Google the website apartment (fill in the blank) and then filter by highest rent to find expensive apartment in good locations. Besides always having mace/pepper spray and something to protect yourself if against things that go bang.
My husband and I feel your pain. Lol. We stealth camp in our van and this night you had is sooo similar to some of ours. Sometimes we nail it quickly. Sometimes not. One night while in a hotel parking lot a man and woman had a huge lovers quarrel smack behind our van. A nice hotel. We could hear everything they said. I was sooo nervous. It continued on and on so my husband slowly climbed out of the bed to the drivers seat, started the engine and took off in one fell swoop, leaving them in shock no doubt 😮😂 Another night we had a policeman knock and kindly told us we couldn’t park where we were and directed us to Dennys.
I don't know if I could handle the daily stress of not knowing where I was parking for the night, if it was safe and if I would get the dreaded 'knock' !
@@catbee1452park at Walmart - problem solved
I lived in an RV for ten years. You get a sixth sense for where you can stay. I never in ten years stayed in a hotel parking lot. They're considered private property and a good way to get the dreaded middle of the night wake up, the police called on you or a ticket for trespassing. I always went to Walmart or truck stops. No problem in ten years! And please drive carefully while you're filming. You ran a red light.
Imagine knocking on someone’s house windows at night. These crazy people need to be arrested. She was doing no harm. Utterly inhumane. Everyone needs sleep. Disgusting behaviour. I can’t stand this society.
It is the hotels property, I say this as someone who also lives in a van. That being said, the amount of hatred and anger that stupid knock generated in this video was hard to put into words.
Oh my. I would have been in panic mode. You stayed so calm and handled the situation so well. I work at a Lowe's in NC. They allow truck drivers to park overnight so they may let vanlifers do the same. Maybe just another option. Stay safe out there
Cracker Barrel is a well known safe place to park. They are found in every city and are usually right beside exits.
@@GoAskAlice23 I was thinking about that! ... yes, if they allow this. But I would want other campers there as well.
@@gracierose3076 plenty of RVs are here now. All shapes and sizes.
Be careful.
I've done that
No problem.
The world we currently live in is unsafe FOR SURE for a woman alone. Please be careful out there🙏🏻
Why? And why for a woman? I have never felt unsafe, ever....
@BBare. It really depends on what area the person is in. I've been to places that were extremely safe walking around in the middle of the night by myself as a teen. Super quiet and peaceful places. Meanwhile, in my hometown, multiple women have nearly been kidnapped in broad daylight in the afternoon while out for a jog, and one of my friends was being stalked by 2 large men around a grocery store at night. Luckily, her male friend who drove her there and was waiting in the parking lot. She phoned him to come inside, and the 2 men backed off and left. My town is mainly one specific race, and the females here are highly desirable for human trafficking. Creeps even come here to lure kids into cars...It doesn't help that my race's rate for being kidnapped and unalived is higher because the police all over don't do anything or care. x') Even if we get physically attacked by strangers in the streets in other cities and towns, the cops are usually like, "Well, what did YOU DO to provoke them?" 🤦🏻♀️
Women are allways and where allways in history vulnerable. It will not change ever.
Humans, men and women, children, dogs, cats are vulnerabke, like any life form.
That means...be careful allways out there.
Allways trust your instinct, gut feeling, combined with your experience and intelligence, knowledge.
General advice because I sleep in my car, I would go into one of those parking lots. I have less activity and some lighting. I don't go in anything that has to do with hotels or active stores or anything like that. Another good place we usually usually don't get harassed at also public buildings like libraries. there are some Walmart parking lots. You can get away with it without a problem you're doing the right thing your surroundings.
Along with cameras, you need to get you red or green LED lights, you can see fine inside, but no one can see any lights on in the Van. Please stay safe❤
Wow girl! I just made it (barely!!) through the KNOCK and am still amped up with you as if I were there! I have been there myself, and you managed to convey the precise heart stopping experience with all its nuances, the knocking on all three sides. Omgoodness I almost couldn’t stay with it! Really enjoy your realness 😊
I immediately went and double locked the front door to my house!!
Try to avoid downtown and other congested areas. These places often fall under multiple jurisdictions where local ordinances may prohibit overnight parking. Also parking may be more competitive and limited with stricter enforcement. If necessary, look for interstate truck and travel stops or businesses that permit overnight parking usually found in the more rural areas.
Wow i was on the edge of my seat. So glad you are ok and received rest.❤
OMGoodness, I am so glad you are safe! I know you have to be tired. Hopefully, you can find better place so you can get a full night's rest. Safe travels!
I was wondering did you know there are Truck Stops like Love's that you can park sorta close to where they park the rigs so the drivers can sleep? They also have good breakfast and a hot shower. The big Truck Stops are more accommodating. You can also look for RV Parks. I live in one and they only charge $10 a night for Vans. They have bath houses that have showers and Washers and Dryers. It's safer than doing it like you are now. Your a single woman traveling alone, please use caution. I down sized and got a camper. I want to go smaller camper though.
I will keep you in my prayers. May God Bless your travels and watch over you at night. ❤🙏❤🇺🇸❤
Too many hotels these days give their guests parking passes that are color coded for certain dates, or, as you found out in this case, have security watching round the clock. I'd actually be much more inclined to park at a rest stop (or rest area or welcome center, whatever it's called in a given area) outside of town the night before, then head into town in the daylight.
I eould never park in a hotel lot. Just me though.
I'd be more inclined to live in a domicile.
@@imnitguy She is living in a domicile. It just happens to be on wheels.
Hotels are not required to provide services for people who are not customers. Their parking lots are for the exclusive use of their guests.
@@Gail-gf7km I think you missed the point. Neither the OP nor myself suggested that she had the RIGHT to park in the hotel parking lot. My comments were actually stating that it wasn't the best idea in the first place, and offering a better alternative.
Columbia South Carolina has Magnolia campground. It’s a must see. There is probably only 12 Rv/spots but the fresh eggs and the birds are so entertaining. Loved it. It’s a must see
Girl you need cameras! No more peaking out 👀 Not only can you see everything, but you can record what’s happening 👍🏻Just my two cents 🙂 Thanks for sharing! Safe travels 🚞
I've been traveling like you, for past 8 yrs. With crazy gas prices and cost of food, I am on now on a budget, Go to a truck stop, get a map of Loves, Flying Js, etc truck stops. Most 24/7 super center Walmarts allow parking, but ask security. I travel with a 80 lb German Shepard, Blue heeler, Rottweiler mix, I leave a window cracked open so he can smell and/or hear someone approaching my Motorhome. Happy travels dear
Ya a truck stop for sure
I live out of a van as well. I won't consider staying in a hotel parking lot. I've worked in a hotel for several years & that "free parking" at a hotel is for the paying guests, not us van dwellers. All the ones I'm familiar with have security cameras watching the lot & security to walk around theought he night.
IF this is the case, they wouldn't have so much vehicle vandalism at hotels and motels.
He didn't say you had to leave. And what if you simply never responded? He can't stay out there all night and he can't risk towing a guest's vehicle.
Hi Allison, you are obviously a sharp and intelligent woman… I know you’ll do fine in whatever life you choose to invest your energy. You are a good person. Thanks. VRing is not for everyone, nor is living in a tiny house, nor is living in a creatively amazing space which we infuse us with all the love we can imagine (thanks John), all the caring & sharing availale to all of us. I’m getting ready to step into van life next year so’s I can go out (of town(s)) and see all the stars (& Milky Way)!!!!!!!!!!!!
Hotels with the name of a military installation attached to it aren’t on the base itself (except for a select few IHG properties) but are labeled as such to make it easier to find for those coming to the area to visit the base for whatever reason and need to make it easier to sort out which hotels are closest to the base itself.
She doesn't need to be in hotel parking lots anyway. Those cars are smash and grab targets of the hotel doesn't have security, and if they do have security she will be the target they are trained to spot.... Because in their mind "potential thief" is all they've been trained to identify. Especially around graduation time at a training base such as fort Jackson
When I stayed in my car, I went to rest stops off the hwy or hospital parking lots...most are free...or Minute clinics...
Too stressful for me! By the time all the driving was done to find a place I think I'd of just got a room for the night and researched for the next night.
,and I would have so much adrenaline I wouldn't be able to sleep anyway
Karen, you little cutie! I bet you’re a strong woman… you can handle yourself, I know. Best of Luck in all your life, in all your journeys; may prosperity always seek you out.
I have never been bothered in a 24 hour Safeway parking lot, or any Safeway parking lot for that matter. Park close to the front of the store. It looks less suspicious. I would get out go and buy something and get back in the vehicle start snacking on whatever I bought and fell asleep in the car and nobody ever bothered me. I doubt you’ll be bothered in the van it’s when you park on the outskirts of the parking lot that people take notice.
You are correct. The reason people do get noticed is because once they pull in they screw around with their phones or organize their vehicle. you do that at the gas station around the corner BEFORE ur final destination. Get to ur spot and go to SLEEP.
You’re in Columbia SC, random hotel, and what are the odds you see the Oscar Meyer Weiner truck parked there 😂😂
Its a good thing you answered otherwise the next knock you would have heard would be from a police officer and then a tow truck.
I would hate being tired and having to look for a parking spot to sleep - I think that alone would be tiresome.
I have done it. It is exhausting. But all parts of the lifestyle are. You have to get up and find coffee or tea. Then you have to find or get to the showering place. Then you have to get to an eatery. It all takes so much energy and time, there is no way you could look for a job or likely hold one down. You save alot of money though. Rent is taxed. Expecially if you know enough people that you can sometimes have housesitting or pet sitting to break the monotony. It can be worth it.