A vanlifer gives his best tips on how to find a safe place to get some sleep. Roadtrippers like to think of ourselves as tireless warriors. However, sometimes you have to sleep. That generally means camping out whenever possible.
Not all camp spots are created equally, though. National and state park camping sites tend to be more spread out and feel more natural than privately operated campsites. That said, during the warmer months, they tend to fill up early—sometimes months in advance, especially on weekends.
There are frequently last-minute cancellations, though. BLM land in particular is almost always fair game. To me, camping on BLM land is the backpacking of car camping. To that end, however, camping on BLM land is almost always free. So, what it lack in amenities it makes up for in affordability and peace and quiet. Walmart has a policy of allowing overnighters at many of its stores, which is great. Related How the Walmart parking lot became an oasis for RVers and van dwellers. For instance, virtually none of the Walmarts near Denver or Washington, D.
I asked my friend Lindsey girlgoneglamping , who has been full-timing it in an Airstream for the last 2 years, what her other go-to businesses are. These were her answers. Most casinos allow free overnight parking, though some charge a small fee if a big event is happening, like a concert or comedy show. However, many of them do allow overnighting. They offer free overnight parking and free RV dump stations, including potable water.
You can even fill your propane tanks at most of them—for a fee, of course. Both of these big-box stores are very RV-friendly. But, again, just like with casinos, make sure you stay aware of your personal safety. While not businesses in the traditional sense, Lindsey has also used church parking lots. If you find yourself in that situation, here are a few areas to seek out—and others to avoid. Keep your blinds drawn.
