11 RV OVERNIGHTERS THAT SURPASS WALMART (RV LIFE)

If you are scrambling for a place to stay, forget Walmart for overnight RV parking. We found 11 RV overnight spots that you can stay at instead. Many people don't know you can stay at these locations with your RV, so pay close attention.
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*Timestamps*
00:00 Intro
00:48 How We Find These Overnighters
01:16 Casinos
02:19 County/City Parks
04:03 Why Not Walmart?
04:40 Fairgrounds
06:11 Boondockers Welcome
08:49 Cabelas
10:21 National Forests
12:22 Cracker Barrel
13:55 BLM (Bureau of Land Management)
14:45 Our Worst Experience RVing
17:23 Truck Stops
19:26 Harvest Hosts
21:30 Rest Areas
22:45 Overnight Spots You've Never Thought Of
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A large influence on this series has come from content creators like Keep Your Daydream and Changing Lanes. The style of this video is also similar to Kara and Nate or Eamon & Bec in parts.
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_DISCLAIMER: HappilyEverHanks is a KZbin channel intended for entertainment purposes only. We are not RV experts and these opinions are only intended to show what methods we use when it comes to RV Living. Do not use this information as professional advice.
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[@HappilyEverHanks]

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[@TheWickkit]

When you started the topic of your best experience at a State Park, I told my boyfriend, "it was in Montana", then you confirmed it! (We're from the Glacier National Park area) Come back and enjoy it once or twice again soon because it's only a few years away from being Montalifornia with corporate retail stores & litter everywhere and trees & wildlife nowhere.

[@user-wy1re3cg4j]

I feel like I need to warn people that the west coast, California specifically, you are not allowed to stay overnight at any Walmart and you are only allowed to rest for 4 hours at a rest stop. Most big box stores don't allow overnight either. There is a large population of homeless and so this is what it has come to. I liked your video.

[@montereybayarealatinmass2363]

You are allowed to stay for 8 hours at California rest stops, but unfortunately they are closed off and on - it’s good to check ahead and make sure they are open.

[@johnthoreson8775]

Wal Mart is closed to overnight camping in Oregon now.

[@LisaLightning]

Isn’t it ridiculous that as the homeless population increases, instead of laws to create more affordable housing, they just make it impossible to sleep outside?

[@themysticalexperiencer8141]

​@@johnthoreson8775 Everywhere in Oregon? How about Planet Fitness?

[@pnwpaths2925]

Can’t overnight at most if not all Walmarts in Washington State. The homeless population aka drug crisis has destroyed that for us and how our state responded…

[@MrJoemarV]

As a trucker, I appreciate you a lot. Our parking is limited to truckstops and rest area and sometimes Walmart. Thank you for saving those spots for us.

[@paulao7022]

Walmart, is starting to get tough on ANYONE using their parking lots!

[@greuju]

​@@paulao7022because assholes are stealing everything

[@user-hh6ex9md4w]

Thank you for your comment! I completely understand the limited parking options for truckers. It's important to be considerate of their needs. By exploring alternative overnight spots for RVers, we can help alleviate the competition for parking spaces. By the way, have you ever considered using a reliable power backup solution like the Segway Portable PowerStation Cube Series? It's perfect for outdoor enthusiasts like us, providing massive capacity, fast recharging, and versatile sockets. Check it out if you're interested!

[@aevalw7743]

commercial drivers have limited time to drive per day due to electronic logs. Nothing worse than the time clock running out and no parking spots.

[@BriLove7]

@3:27 in Is that Junction Texas?

[@rickcooper156]

Planet Fitness is one of my favorites! Most of them are 24 hours, you have 24 hour access to a bathroom if you need it. The other advantage is safety; people come to the gym at all hours and you're less likely to be harassed by weird people when there are lots of people coming and going.

[@pnwpaths2925]

I can’t imagine being able to park my 34’ trailer in a planet fitness parking lot. Way too small of spots and I would make people angry taking up multiple stalls

[@jefffromnorthdakota]

If you want your female partner or daughters to share a bathroom with a man

[@user-dv3lc6dv8q]

If you join the Elks, you can camp over night or 2. go in have dinner, clean up. get a drink . Some Ejks have complete hook ups.Once your an Elks member, your a member at all the Elks. Its great.

[@Adventureswithbecky]

How do you become a member?

[@jeremywilson2735]

I think this maybe true for Moose lodge members as well. I’ve seen campers at our town Moose before. But check ahead don’t take my word for sure. They all may have different rules.

[@user-fl1fx2rs7e]

Thanks for this video. Im 70 and my new life starts in another 8 days. full time r.v.ing. This will help

[@keptleroymg6877]

Please lift and keep your muscles big

[@HarryPrimate]

As a truck driver I would like to point out that several of the truck stops have RV parking, not just Love’s. Some, but not all, Pilot/Flying J’s and TA/Petro will have designated RV parking areas.

[@cathymontowski1263]

Thanks for explaining the rules around camping at rest areas/walmart. I can’t tell you how many times we’ve seen people putting out their slides /mats/unhook and leave their trash. They ruin it for all of us.

[@HappilyEverHanks]

Absolutely, Cathy! We are happy to hear that this can be of some help. Thank you again for all your support. Have a Happy New Year 🥳 - Kyle and Renee

[@karlanderson1791]

As a trucker and rv owner I appreciate your comments. I only ask that other overnight campers occupy the smallest space possible. With electronic logs we can't run all night anymore so the spots in truck stops fill up pretty quickly every night. And when our clock runs out for the day we have no choice but to shut down. I'm not complaining by the way. I did my time running all hours of the day and I don't miss it. Great channel!

[@alaricleigh-sf7iy]

😊😊

[@RippingJack76]

When you're 30 you want peace and quiet. I didn't get to that stage until I was almost 45. Now at 60 I'm downright cranky.

[@cindyfields5170]

5-HTP

[@melissacomer8404]

At 61, I agree. I used to fuss at the hubby. I do not want to go to bed at 9 o'clock. Here I am at 8:52 finishing prepping for work tomorrow going to bed.

[@GG-qy2js]

Recap: Casinos, county & city parks, fairgrounds, boon-dockers welcome membership, calbellas, national forest, Cracker Barrel, BLM (off-grid), truck stops (Loves will have RV parking soon), harvest host (membership), rest areas are for truckers, airports, cafe, strip malls, churches, hospitals, tractor supply, Lowes, Home Depot, convention centers.

[@HappilyEverHanks]

Thanks for the recap 🤙

[@Ezrasideas]

You just saved me 25 mins thanks lol

[@sunsetsleeper]

@@HappilyEverHanks is walmart just noisy what else is wrong about Walmart you didn't state lol

[@sedg03]

Fairgrounds in Colorado Nebraska areas are now off limits to camping or even just going to let the dogs run n eat a sandwich. Feds are deliberately trying to tighten down on any n all alternative lifestyles.

[@janchampine1899]

@@sedg03 yuppers. They sure don't want us self sufficient.

[@tylerfb1]

Something else about National Forests: you can boondock in any of them basically anywhere at anytime. You have to be within like 300 ft of a road, which can be a forest road, and you can only stay in one spot for 14 days, but National Forests are awesome.

[@carr869]

OMG!!! You’re 30? No wait, this video is one year old so you’re 31 now. Ready for the retirement home. You guys crack me up. Thanks for taking the time to make and share this with us. 30, you’re still baby’s add 40 years and a motorcycle camper to that. It’s all about living life. Thanks again. Tom

[@ccrow9147]

There is nothing more comforting than sleeping in a truck stop listening to the idling engines😉. (Married a truck driver almost 50 years ago, still love the stops.). 🚛

[@rolfholt9684]

... and the sweet smell of diesel exhaust 🥴

[@GrantWood.]

1. Casino’s 2. County or City Park’s • Walmart 3. Fairground’s 4. Boondockers Welcome 5. Cabelas / Bass Pro Shop 6. National Forest’s 7. Cracker Barrel 8. BLM - Bureau of Land Management 9. Truck Stops 10. Harvest Hosts 11. Rest Areas 12. Misc. - Airports, Churches, Hospital, Tractor Supply, Lowes, Home Depot and more… (CALL AHEAD!)

[@TheJanieLynn]

Wow, Thanx, for sharing.....=)

[@Zylus-sl3fd]

We are full time rvers I still work at a job that requires me to go into work. So we use the only campground around that has year round sites with hook ups. we have used the hospital option before, my wife had to arrive at 6 in the morning for surgery, and I closed the night before so I drove our motor home and parked it in my work’s parking lot( I am the General manager at a restaurant so!) when I got off work (@11pm) went and started up the coach and drove it 15 minutes to the hospital and parked it out in the very end of the lot. We did this versus driving 45 minutes to our campsite and then 50 minutes back in the morning. Also we had previously talked with the security to make sure we could. They told us that people do it all the time and exactly where they wanted us. After my wife got checked in I could have stayed in the lobby but I walked back out to the rv and went back to bed. Went back in after a few hours and waited about 20 minutes and was told my wife was in recovery. After release I drove the rv right up to hospital and picked her up(literally) and put her in bed and I drove home. (Campsite)

[@medic1541]

Having a fan turned on and some "rain sounds" on a speaker always helps to drown out the noise at these places that can be kinda loud. Trust me, being in the firehouse for decades, a fan and rain noises help out immensely!!!

[@arbonneladyTN]

We have a sound machine that has several sounds, hubby hates the fan blowing air… 😂

[@HappilyEverHanks]

Oh no doubt!! We love that white noise as well 😃 Love that you worked at a firehouse as a medic! AWESOME!!

[@KarenKClinton]

Some of us HATE rain noise! Ugh…

[@nathanpeacock9978]

I feel your pain trying to rest in a firehouse. I'm retired but I worked 35 years as a firefighter/paramedic in San Antonio Texas SAFD.

[@williambranham6249]

We've called the local police station. Usually small towns. They have always been cooperative when we were looking for a spot for a short overnight stay. We have used local libraries. Also we have stayed at several Wal Marts on the east coast with no problems. Again we call the police dept. and talk to the store manager for permission and to see if there have been any issues. We were in Maine and a policeman came onto the Wal Mart parking lot. I flagged him down and he said it was safe because they patrol it several times nightly. Aside from possible noise, I think there is safety in numbers at a Wal Mart. Many big box stores have security after hours. Try to find them and get their ok. It never hurts to get to know people in security. Out of respect if they know who you are there is less likely to be a knock on the door.

[@lyfandeth]

Sometimes they get outright paranoid, liken when I asked if they knew a 24 hour pharmacy. In case I was looking to rob one I suppose. But usually, they appreciate the courtesy. "Vehicle stops" are, they will tell you, the most frightening part of their day.

[@GoogleAccount-uz1uj]

Why draw unnecessary attention to yourself....not to mention wasting their time.

[@wildcard9724]

Also worth mentioning are race tracks! Many of the larger ones have designated areas for use.

[@highwaywarrior7778]

I agree with being a 30yr (my case 32yr old) old guy wanting peace and quiet. Also, as a owner operator/trucker, we appreciate you leaving us spots at rest areas and truck stops. Every year it becomes even harder finding a safe, legal spot to park a rig.

[@HappilyEverHanks]

Thanks for all you do!

[@highwaywarrior7778]

@@HappilyEverHanks thank you for your appreciation!!!!!!

[@joyceobeys6818]

Amen and so many ppl certainly want the rigs to quickly bring their wares but there’s so few places to park and the time is ticking down and you are forced to pull over somewhere and get woke up by police during the 10 hours down n they’ll make you move. So not right. They need to have more parking areas for rigs everywhere and places the police are not allowed to mess with you and wake you up in the middle of well needed sleep for the most ridiculous reasons. 🙃

[@highwaywarrior7778]

@@joyceobeys6818 amen!!!!!! Now that's the truth!!!!!!!!!

[@rock2946]

​@Joyce Obeys what's funny, in my state, is you're encouraged to pull over and rest in the vehicle if you're tired (when you first learn how to drive). But, when people do, they get in trouble 🤦‍♀️

[@b.brave.b.aware00965]

Getting ready to hit the road to travel for my husband’s job, bringing two kids with us and homeschooling will be an adventure! I was really nervous but I found your channel this morning. Three videos in and I feel so much better about this lifestyle, thank you both so much for helping those of us climbing on this crazy RV life adventure too!

[@HappilyEverHanks]

Thanks for joining our channel! We're glad to have you and wish you all the best of luck!

[@sedg03]

Whatcha ya' goin to do when theres no gas cept for $20/gallon? Ask as you"ve kids

[@guillermomanso2339]

What a douche

[@catherinecaballero9686]

I’m thinking about it and I have 3 kids. Would you do homeschooling yourself or with a online program?

[@djfuentes5714]

Good Luck!! We got a rig with back bunk bed, "cubbies" for our boys. LOVE them. We are planning our own trip. With our boys and 3 pugs!

[@CrusaderNewcastle]

Awesome jobs guys love your vibe and perspective, its grey to see the road is not full of grumpy grey nomads, love the advice but more the way your present it. I am based in Newcastle Australia and I wish we had more kids like you doing this. Indeed, I wish we had more of what you have cause life outside the RV parks is so much fun. Keep up the great work kids cheers Leigh

[@deniseinight9596]

Three years ago, I decided to buy an older class C RV and learned a lot from joining an RV club, since then I've been across country several times and plan to take my now newer RV into Mexico. I don't care for staying in Walmart for several reasons: 1. yes, the noise - I had a street cleaner keep circling around my RV and then there's the 2) bright lights shining into my windows and into my fan/vents. I was up in the middle of the night cutting up Reflectix to fit to block the light and 3) the weirdos. I was all nice and settled in to a spot along side of the store and then another RV came in a parked uncomfortably close to mine and the couple were arguing. It was just weird so I moved away. Also if you join the Elks, many of them allow traveling Elk members to park for a nominal donation, they all have bars and some cook dinner too. Elks have lodges all across the US.

[@HappilyEverHanks]

Hi Denise! You make some great points here. Thank you for also taking the time to share about the Elks lodges...that is one we missed in this video. We appreciate your support and for watching our videos 😊 - Kyle and Renee

[@victorparise5987]

OMG!I love you guys! The bickering is just like me and my wife. We find it is very helpful and compliments each other. We never take it seriously and at the end of the day we LOVE EACH OTHER!

[@toddtonis]

Thank you for making this video. As a couple who are just starting to camp as we travel across the country, we only knew about Walmart and Cracker Barrel as places to stop overnight for cheap. You list has really helped, especially the suggestion about the city or county parks. Great job! One camping area we found in our journey was on the Ohio Turnpike. Some of their rest areas have dedicated paid overnight camping areas (separate parking lot) with electrical hookup with a dump station and fresh water at the exit to the parking lot. They were really quiet.

[@janet1744]

Thank you.

[@coyoteodie4458]

I drive long haul truck, my wife owns a small restaurant,and we boondock camp. You earned a like and subscribe for your respect of trucks and support of businesses. Great video. Safe travels!

[@HappilyEverHanks]

Thanks so much 🤗

[@ralphb.3802]

Only did this twice on a long trip from PA to FL. Cracker Barrel was great. They have RV parking and there were many other RVs. Safety in numbers. Flying J in Ga had designated RV parking so we didn’t infringe or the truckers. We felt safe in both places and the truck stop wasn’t as noisy as we thought it would be. Planning to stay at Cabela’s next long trip. Thanks for the video, we’ll keep these places in mind.

[@larrainefaircloth7361]

Another great episode from the Hanks family. We joined Boondockers Welcome this year. We’ve only used it once so far, but it was a fun experience. Can’t wait to use it some more in the future. Loving some of your other tips for overnight stays while on the road. Very informative and helpful info. #thankshanks for another fun Thursday night.

[@HappilyEverHanks]

Thanks for watching! Glad you got to use the program already!

[@thistlecreekhmstd]

We are starting the process to be full time RVer’s! You guys have so much good info for people who are just starting out. Thank you so much!!!

[@HappilyEverHanks]

Love that! We'll see you on the road someday!

[@WilliamNau]

You two did a great job with this video. As a long time RVer, your information was spot on and presented in your usual entertaining way.

[@HappilyEverHanks]

WOW! Thank you very much William, this is truly kind of you to say 🙂 Stay safe out there!

[@danielwitmer3242]

I've noticed all the various wys and sites alwsays claim the price is going up in the next month. So guess just another Scam in general.

[@grantgrow]

We stayed at a city campground in Flandreau South Dakota. Great price, clean campground, and the night we stayed there was a multi-town softball game. Wonderful time

[@DRAGONZUZU1]

VERY USEFUL INFOMATION FOR NEWBIE. I AM GLAD YOU GUYS ARE ON THE ROAD AND KEEP GIVING US UPDATE ON THE CHANGE AND NEWS TO RV. I AM ABOUT TO START MY RV LIFE NEXT YEAR, SO THANKS A LOT.

[@veronicadavidson5990]

Most Walmarts around us have a lot of homeless people living in their cars. We’re northeast of Philadelphia. There’s a lot of trash and bottles full of urine in Walmart parking lots. Drug deals etc. Home Depot has the same problem. Couple camper fires, drug dealers etc. Most no longer allow RVs and cops make homeless move.

[@kathymacinnes5052]

Helpful video. Have been traveling with a 5th wheel for a number of years and are transitioning to a 30' class A for a 2 month cross country trip starting next week. One resource you didn't mention probably because it's not free is Passport America. 50% off usual rates at a large number of RV parks, often only $15-$20 with full hookups. There are restrictions on number of days, some weekend and seasonal black-outs, but it's great when you need to fill/empty tanks, etc.

[@westmotors100]

Another great episode! Thank you for all the great info. We full timed for 4 months awhile ago and loved it. I had to stop due to cancer but am clear and free other than a few meets with the doc this summer. So as of May 1st we are full time in our class A motor coach. We have to stay close for the summer to finish up then we are heading for western Canada to spend the winter. Then next summer we are heading for eastern Canada. After we are finished there we will head down to the US for 4 months for the winter and hopefully make it to a meet up with the Hanks. Safe travels Hanks!

[@HappilyEverHanks]

We have more rally dates posting soon! It will be in our weekly email 🤗 - So glad to hear you are doing better and ready to see some great places!

[@Elizabeth-rq1vi]

Going to Western Canada for winter? Weird 🤣. Unless it’s really west & you mean the Lower Mainland or Vancouver Island. We’d winter there but definitely not near the Rockies! (I live in Calgary)

[@janeforever]

We stopped RVing due to hubby's stage 4 cancer that we've been fighting for 2+yr now. Glad your fight was successful & you're out on the road once more. May you stay cancer free. Here's hoping we can follow in your tire tracks🤞.

[@phyllischancey1114]

We have officially been on the road 2 weeks tomorrow. We have used Harvest Host from WV to Livingston, TX to domicile. We stayed at the Escapees Park in TX. Then Livingston, TX to Lyons, GA Harvest Host and our first Boondockers Welcome in Alabama. The sweetest couple ever! The little Main St. of Prattville, AL has those quaint little shops that have something for everyone. We have more than paid for our membership with all these stays 💞

[@HappilyEverHanks]

That is so great to hear! Y'all are rocking this lifestyle already!

[@garytakos6628]

Great Info! I'm a 30 year otr trucker. Hate trucks stops exactly for the noise issue. And Walmarts because of so many NASTY truckers these days throwing trash and other nasty things outa their trucks we aren't welcome there in many places. Will retire in the next year, and doing what you're doing full time. So the info is much appreciated! Thanks! Be safe, and cautious every night no matter where you are.

[@moore_2_explore]

Good recommendations all!! We have LOVED Boondockers Welcome so much…totally worth the cost. Also fairgrounds, city/county parks and National Forests. As always you guys make us smile and seeing Dex with that turkey was icing on the cake!😉

[@HappilyEverHanks]

Love hearing this 🤗 Ya'll mean so much! Stay safe out there friends!

[@Valkman007]

Love you kids and your Channel. I met you two at the Myrtle Beach Grand Design Rally last month. We have been rolling cross contry and camping for about 22 years and still find out new and interesting things from you two. I used to work for a Traveling Nurse Company in Omaha, so very familiar with what you do. Take care and have FUN !

[@HappilyEverHanks]

So glad we got to meet!! Thanks for all your support 🤗

[@wrongway5758]

Thanks for all the information My wife and I are Canadian and May 1st We are going full time. Have been watching you guys a couple of years now while thinking about everything that has to be done before we go, you have been taking some of the anxiety away for me. Onward and upward, ThanksHanks The Morrisons

[@HappilyEverHanks]

Glad you are getting some good information! Best of luck with everything!

[@ArtistonaHarleyD]

We just purchased our first toy hauler and are excited to hit the road with the trailer ...and the bikes! Thanks for sharing all these great ideas! The apps are an awesome start for these newbies to the RVing world! See you on the road, Cheers! 🥂Pete & Bonnie 🇨🇦

[@claytonmatt4334]

You shouldn't cook on aluminum foil, or any aluminum for that matter. Stuff is toxic and leeches into your food. Just lookin out for ya buddy. Great video always looking for ideas on where to stop for a day.

[@backlash370]

Thanks for doing what you can to respect truckers. Key word in your video, respect.

[@paulao7022]

We all need to be respectful of each other!

[@davemcnew6591]

This is the best tv video I’ve seen. Not long winded, lots of very useful information, and you guys are fun to watch.

[@theaveadventurers]

Love this! New to the channel, but we are so happy we found it. Helpful for us as RVers but also as beginner KZbinrs. Hope to see you on the road!

[@MsJRod2012]

OMG, you guys took away a lot of my fears, since I am planning to buy an RV /truck, live in it full-time solo on the West Coast, and travel to a list of national parks, mostly in the US Western areas! I have already been researching so I've heard about the paid sites for boondockers. Thank you so much!!!!

[@HappilyEverHanks]

Our pleasure!

[@sedg03]

Be very.careful western national parks. Many of our wilderness areas have murders... be xtra careful.

[@stevenmonson5149]

A word of advice ,if asked by national park officer DON'T say i am fulltime living in RV, say : I AM ONLY CAMPING!!! It will save you from jail and fines...... Good luck 🤞

[@rock2946]

​@@stevenmonson5149 Second this. Never tell officials that you live full time in an RV

[@aquady]

​@@stevenmonson5149 I'm curious, what could the charge be for someone living in an RV full time?

[@loriw2661]

I had to stop at 12:00 and laugh when you said “When you reach 30” like that’s old. Lmao!! Trust me, this 61 year old (62 in June) would LOVE to be 30 (even 39) again!! Great video!! Say hi to the Dex Man!🐾❤️🐾

[@larryk3986]

Yeah, over the hill at 30!! I have older shoes! 😉

[@HappilyEverHanks]

🤣 You guys are too awesome! We love ya'll!!!

[@racheldodds8837]

I laughed too because my 50 year old husband is totally the grumpy old man when it comes to noise. He's as mature as a 15 year old most times but grumpy old man comes out a lot with night time noise!! 🤣

[@RevCeleste]

This 72 yr old would love to be 60 again lol. It's all relative, right? : )

[@051TEFFY]

We've done a lot of truck stops with a 34" motor home and we always back in and park at the back of the space so our rear bedroom is the greatest distance from the front of the truck, this makes it a little bit quieter. Church parking lots are also a great place to spend the night (Saturday night excluded).

[@trucking325]

Please don't stay at truck stops!

[@clarencecourtney8433]

Hi Kyle and Renee, I really enjoy your channel. City parks & fairgrounds are great. Around 4:48 one of the fairgrounds looked like Adams County, Washington in Ritzville. One of the best weeks in our Alaska journey . Wonderful campground hosts!

[@HappilyEverHanks]

That is right! We really like that place!

[@jeremywilson2735]

Thanks for the great info. And as a retired trucker I appreciate your respect for us, and I always showed back respect for rvs . There’s room for us all out here on the road. And thanks for letting others know not to use slide outs at truck stops or rest stops, not everyone knows this. Happy safe travels y’all. I’m a new follower to your channel….

[@HappilyEverHanks]

Hi Jeremy. Thank you for your wonderful comment. You made our day reading this. We appreciate all your support and look forward to hearing from you again. Stay safe!

[@HelloWorldRobnLisa]

Thanks again for this video!! I stayed at the Brown County Fairgrounds in De Pere's WI the first night after I picked up our "new-to-us" Itasca. Had no idea that fairgrounds would be such a good one or two day stop. I also stayed at two Rest Area's for solid 6 hour sleep stop's on my way back to Philly. So, first 1,400 mile trip was awesome and cost me a total of $32.00 in "site fees". Whole new world now, appreciate the information.

[@perrymahnke886]

When I leave the cold Wisconsin winters & travel through Texas, I've stopped at a Buc-ee's & talked to the manager about spending the night. As a rule I get permission as long as I'm not still there after 6:30 AM. If I do get up during the night & use Buc-ee's facilities, I also buy something even if it's to restock my camper. By the way, I have a pickup with a 24' trailer & I always park as far away from the building as possible.

[@scottmeacham1738]

Another informative and entertaining video! We start our first "camping season" in May this year at Morrow Mountain State Park NC. Thanks for sharing this video with us!

[@HappilyEverHanks]

So exciting! Have a great time!

[@scottmeacham1738]

@@HappilyEverHanks thank you! 2 weeks!

[@tiffanyhine1526]

Picked up our Camper cross country (Michigan to Colorado) for the first time EVER and had no idea where to stay! Watched your video and it blew my mind!!! #THANKSHANKS Didn't feel safe staying at Wal-Mart so was very pleased for you to tell these newbies we weren't the only ones! Ended up pulling over at Cracker Barrel and loved it! Made us get up early, had a wonderful breakfast, and back on the road! We would have never known this, great tip!

[@dougbas3980]

We have paid $36 to $70 for a night just traveling thru. We need to re-think that! This was so useful, thanks.

[@brentross9233]

We've had great luck with US National Recreation areas. They're usually free or discounted with our National Park pass. Stayed in some great ones in Washington and Idaho area for $7

[@loren3160]

I boondock in my car😁. Lots of ladies my age 71 do this because of our budget. Walmart is loud but I sleep like a baby 😂. At the beach several places to park but some riff raff but best climate ever!! Rest areas by the beach is crowded but beautiful ❤️. Had a RV at a thousand trails but some people love to steal your stuff! Sold it and am in a tiny home now for a while. Medical reasons. Glad you guys are enjoying yourselves 👌

[@sherryllynnjones7077]

🙏❤️🙏

[@jakeolsen2764]

I just spent 8 days and 4 states on the road and not one single Walmart even had the option for an over night stay. I only tried/needed 1 night that i did not have a spot booked but looked at several Walmart lots and all had a sign that said no over night camping/parking. So i drove 665 miles in Oregon, Nevada and a lot of Utah that day and got to a spot in the National forest that was much better anyways. And thank you for the good advice, Your videos and you 2 are great and fun to watch.

[@Mamabear76]

We are under contract selling our house and have bought our RV that will be delivered at the end of May!! We have 3 little kids under 7 and we are so excited. My husband and I watch you guys for all this good information. #thankshanks

[@HappilyEverHanks]

Thanks for all your support Jessica! You have great adventures coming up!

[@amypletcher4411]

Thanks for these tips and discounts!! I don't think we are going anywhere this year but it is nice to know if we go on a long trip to stay overnight for the night before we get to our main location. It is probably premature to order a boom dockers welcome or a Harvest Host plan if we are only weekend warriors or week long vacation family or is it? Plus u said the price goes up and ur locked into that discount price, hopefully. I got a good Sam membership last year in June thinking we would get to use it the rest of the summer and beginning of the next year but it looks like we aren't.

[@HappilyEverHanks]

Thank you Amy!! Yes, this will lock you into that specific price 😊 Best to you Amy, have a wonderful weekend!

[@esthermcgough3995]

love you too. I so enjoy your pure joy you show about life. I wish I had that in me.

[@tonyfredo2086]

You all are so much fun, thank you.

[@njb1814]

Hi Guys! I just found this video/channel, and thank you for some good information! We are "thinking" about doing this when my husband retires, so all the information I can get will be useful. I never knew that there were so many places to stay, so thank you for that! How exciting it must be for the two of you, to be able to do this! That's wonderful! Thank you again for all the great information!❤

[@HappilyEverHanks]

Welcome! Thanks so much 🤗

[@victoriapaschke367]

I drove from MI to CA and back on a sort of Route 66 trip this past fall. I stayed at a number of truck stops including several Love's that had camping sites. I wish I could have planned my driving time better to reserve my site a few days ahead, but it was my first really long trip. Of all the truck stops I went through, Love's is by far the most accommodating. I always made sure I was respectful of the truck drivers (since the father of my children is one, and he might run me off the road if I wasn't...LOL) and I found that I felt very safe for the most part.

[@HappilyEverHanks]

Hi Victoria! Wow, what a drive! You must have seen so many incredible things along the way. Yes, Love's has been really accommodating in allowing the truckers to have their own space compared to the RVers out on the road. Thank you for watching our videos, we appreciate your support 😊

[@pnwpaths2925]

Do you have enough room for your slide outs?

[@michellegarry1872]

Tractor Supply. I had no idea and wouldn’t have thought of it. I absolutely love “window shopping” at TSC. They have some cool stuff. I used to have horses hence my love affair with farm supply stores. Thanks for the great ideas! 💚

[@HappilyEverHanks]

We could spend a lot of time in there too! Thanks for watching!

[@georgiannrose867]

We were in a pinch trying to fill propane in class A and they do that! Never even thought about staying there, thanks!

[@TinyGoHomes]

Thank you both. Lots of information on the subject I’m currently working on. Had too get out the old pen and pad for this. God bless you on your travels 🙏🫡🇨🇦

[@mjust7884]

Love all your suggestions - we have a large Trucker Camper with 2 slides and have stayed at many of the places you suggested.... although Walmart has been our most go to place so far only because we didn't know about all these great options but we will definitely check them out on our next adventure... WHICH BTW will be coming up sooner rather than later. We are going to trade our sticks and bricks for the RV Life and we can't wait. Looking forward to maybe crossing paths one day... in the mean time stay safe and keep those videos coming!

[@HappilyEverHanks]

So happy for you guys! We'll see you out here!

[@chriswoods4079]

Great list . City’s usually have a warehouse district and I’ve stayed in those areas overnight.

[@outbackwack368]

Great list. I've had great experiences at State Parks. Oliver Lee in NM near White Sands was $110 for a week with nice sites right in the hills, great mountain views, hiking, hookups, showers and a dump station! A Bargain! For dirt roads I always detach and drive the Jeep out to assess the roads for RV friendliness. The problem I have with Harvest Hosts is that you pay for a membership and then are expected to patronize the business. We don't drink. Might as well stay at a campground for cheaper... Thanks!

[@lucianestridge7964]

Okay, I have chosen you to be my main source of information in doing my research in getting started with full time on road living. I love your content. I am a soon retiring fedex truck driver and my wife is a 30+ year RN. I have picked out my fithwheel rig and preparing to sell my house and car and trading in my truck for a diesel pusher. All of your content has answered so many questions for us. I am 60 but look about 40.(had to though that in lol) anyway thankyou for all you do. Keep it coming.

[@HappilyEverHanks]

That is incredible, Lucian! Thank you so much for your support and for watching, we are glad that our content has been helpful for you! Safe travels!

[@elusiveeskimo3013]

Good list with added informative information, well done. For a quick overnight sleep stop almost anywhere I've found churches to be a very good option. I always park around back, stay quiet, and don't set anything outside. Driving a white 33 foot long Limo Bus conversion, with nothing added to it's outside, it's appearance still says Bus. So I look like I belong there, blend right in. For anyone who needs to Stealth Camp overnight, blending in, looking like you belong there, is key to avoiding The Knock. And wherever you park, please be respectful of your surroundings. Or we may all loose the ability to be there. One thing I normally don't hear mentioned of, when choosing overnight and camping sites, is what happens if you break down there. Many motor-homes and bus conversions require a Big Rig size tow truck. They are very long, wide, and heavy; require a lot of room to maneuver. When my bus broke down earlier this year, it was where roads were narrow and turns tight. The truck managed to get to where I was, hook up to the back of my bus. Then I sat in the driver's seat of the bus, steering it much like the guy at the back of a really long fire truck in the city does. Only he's facing forward, I was using mirrors all the way. Add that since the diesel engine wouldn't start, I had no power steering to help me make the turns. It was a very slow and nerve racking experience to get back to a main road. During which I realized that some of the places I had camped in the past, this tow truck would not have been able to get me out of. So "Tow Truck Accessibility" is now on my "Check List" of campsite Requirements. And here I'll add a special "Thank You" to "Coach Net" who stood by me throughout this challenging experience. Made the arrangements for, and covered all costs of, this very expensive recovery.

[@computerfixer06]

Great info! We usually just do weekends away from home right now but good to know if we start going farther! First trip of the season this weekend!

[@HappilyEverHanks]

WAHOO!!! Love hearing this Aaron!!

[@computerfixer06]

@@HappilyEverHanks had a good weekend despite some rain, couldn't help thinking about your videos when dumping tanks before we left! 🤣

[@zippy7451]

When our reservations in Carlsbad, NM got messed up (actually my wife forgot to book it 🙂), we decided to try a Harvest Host. We went to Balzano Vineyard just outside of Carlsbad. It had electric and water. Great food, wine and service. We not only had dinner there....but decided to have brunch the next morning since we had a short travel day. Highly recommend it if you are in the area.

[@goinsomewheretogether]

Yeah, we stayed there last September, very nice overnight.

[@HappilyEverHanks]

Oh that is a good one to write down then! Thanks for sharing 🤗

[@merlew357]

Thankyou so much regarding setting a good example with your respect for truckers

[@OpenCarryUSMC]

We rarely pay to stay though we aren’t full time yet. If we need to drop the trailer we will use a park. On a 30 day Oregon to PA to Nee Orleans and back to Oregon we paid for 5 nights because we needed to drop. We generally use: RV Parky IOverlander Dump Sites We almost never pay to dump or fill the fresh water either. We just got home from 3 nights/4 days on the road. 2 nights parked on the Oregon coast at just above the beach on an old piece of US 101 that is one way in/out and we can turn out 40’ (truck and 5ver with sliding hitch) around with a couple of feet to spare. We measured it the first time and had practiced in a large parking lot. Third night in a large dirt pullout alongside a state Highway next to the river. Both allowed us to get level without unhooking or using blocks/jacks. The places are out there and people share on apps like IOverlander. Compendium is decent but we rarely use it. When we go full time we will probably use compendium, harvest hosts, etc. but we plan to use a lot of BLM as our rig is being built for several weeks to a month off grid. 2900W solar 6.5kW inverter 10.24kWh of lithium 200 gal fresh 62 gal black Regular grey 4 sinks 2nd grey for shower & washing machine with a reclamation filtering system. Oh and two A/C mini splits and 29 gal propane

[@chiefhayes2250]

First time seeing all of your episodes. This was an awesome video packed with some great information. Keep up the great work. Have you guys done one on the video equipment you use and your editing software. I would love to see that if it is available.

[@johnn5646]

Love your very comprehensive list and how you presented in such a fun manner! Maybe I missed this but I wanted to touch on the fact that many Walmarts do not allow overnight parking….especially in larger metropolitan areas. Many times this is due to city ordinances but unfortunately sometimes due to disrespectful campers who take advantage of the situation. Love your channel, hope to see you on the road!!

[@HappilyEverHanks]

Thanks for sharing!!

[@kathybarlow9963]

We stay at Walmarts across the country for a quick overnight, and many times, they have a Do Not Stay because of the unsafe area. And if Walmarts close at night, there is no security so those often don’t allow it. I’ll tell you, betters coming to wake you up at 3 am asking for $20 is very annoying, and it’s happened more than once. Walmarts with security often put a stop to panhandling of the rv units. So there are several reasons that a Walmart may not allow overnights. Just be respectful if they do allow you to stay and clean up after your pets, etc.

[@paulao7022]

Some disrespectful people, ruin it for so many others!

[@coop90808]

You guys are awesome. Heading across contra to Wisconsin, from CA in May, and this info will be fantastic. Going to see my grandson graduate from high school. Times are hard right now so I didn’t give much ( you deserve much more) but I sure appreciated the info.. thanks again! 🙏❤️

[@HappilyEverHanks]

We always appreciate your support! Glad you get to see family 🤗

[@jtoepke9763]

Really enjoy your content so much camper friendly information that is not over technical but very useful. Some stuff we did not think of. Thank you

[@HappilyEverHanks]

We appreciate that!

[@jasonkeith3220]

It's probably been mentioned already but Sam's are great. They close early and are generally not busy immediately in the morning. Another plus to Sam's is if your a member you can top off your fuel ( not all Sam's have diesel) and get a few groceries if needed. Nearly all Sam's are located in close proximity to a Interstate.

[@HappilyEverHanks]

That's a great one, thanks Jason!

[@gypsycrossroads]

I can totally feel your pain with reverse driving. When I had my CDL I was following my GPS and it took me down a dirt road to my next delivery. 11 miles down the dirt road and I came to an area that was washed out. Going forward was no longer an option so reverse all 11 miles. My neck was sooooooo sore after that. Looking from mirror to mirror took it's toll. As for Harvest Hosts, We did an Alpaca farm in Kansas. Super cool experience. Great super duper warm socks to buy at their store too! Winery was fun but we spent a bunch of money there between the wine, cheeses and meats.... yum but $$$.

[@HappilyEverHanks]

Ugh, 11 miles sounds awful to drive backwards! We appreciate you sharing your story!

[@RushinTruckin]

You must’ve driven for SWIFT 🤣😂

[@suzbone]

ELEVEN MILES. Just thinking about it took some time off my lifespan! Mad props to you for actually doing it! 👏 👏 👏

[@joyceobeys6818]

We have done that before too! It’s Horrible! Once we were on Hwy 12 in Indian country and they did not warn anyone that they took the road out in the side of a mountain n it was raining n sleeting n if you stopped you would sink into the mud and maybe slide off the mountain. A CBer came on and let everyone know it was 12 or 15 miles ( I don’t remember) you could hear a pin drop. Everyone was holding their breath n someone would get on and say whatever you do don’t stop, keep going but go slow. I never wanted to go that way ever again. I would map around it! And we were just in so many predicaments. I’d be here all day sharing the funny, the hilarious, the tragic comedy, the fun, the tense, the scary n etc…. LOL

[@nyuriheals]

Thank you for this! Watching it a year later and feeling it’s still quite accurate! And totally fell in love with you both when you stuck up your licked finger to the wind❤ SO much love and gratitude hitting the road this week in my 92 dodge van! Woot woot!

[@jamestopeka2236]

Us RV lifters have a free and friendly sprit for the most part , everyone I've met in the 37 states over the last 4 years have been awesome .I always remember the places i stay .

[@rvfamilytribe3489]

Awesome tips. We have stayed in Cracker Barrel and it's was a great experience, also we are member of the Harvest Host and also we have stayed in them and great experience. You guys are awesome.

[@HappilyEverHanks]

Glad it was all good!

[@Masterchief68]

You are absolutely right, Cracker Barrel is a great place to overnight! Great breakfast that you can walk to also! Strictly boondocking though. They have a great fish dinner that Dexter would enjoy!

[@HappilyEverHanks]

Dexter would love the fish dinner for sure 😹

[@bullfrogger1208]

Fires are OK in the national forests but you must get a permit from a ranger station. It's free but you have to have water and a shovel, I believe, and know how to properly put out your fire. They will sometimes dig under your old fire and if they find hot coals, you can get an expensive ticket.

[@oldbird4210]

Great information, thanks Hanks! We'd love to hear more about your nursing work while traveling. Love and pets to Dexter!

[@HappilyEverHanks]

We have been out of the nursing game for almost two years but have great memories to share!

[@stevenhoag69]

I'm setting in my car in Chanute, Ks eating my breakfast before I go into work watching your video and then you mentioned Chanute, KS. Wow what a coincidence and its a small town. Thanks for the info.

[@HappilyEverHanks]

Small world and a nice area!

[@Bubba4168]

Depending on the size of your rig, you can and I have stayed at Pastor Gardens, Dennys , at least one IHOP restaurant and any number of shopping malls. Any place that has a nighttime business makes it easier to stay overnight.

[@lancemousel3457]

Ok

[@bobpurs]

Good info. Definitely some places to stay that I didn’t know or never thought of and good to have in case needed. Thanks for another great video 👍✊🏕

[@HappilyEverHanks]

Glad it was helpful!

[@DanaRoland]

You guys should make a list of these great little city/county parks. You guys rock.

[@donnavernon7023]

Thank you so much for this great information. We are going to Ashville NC/Biltmore next week. Camping next to a river 😀 Love you both Carl and Nene ❣️ I look forward to Thursday.

[@niceatrya3477]

We stayed there last year about this time. Awesome place, quick access to downtown, and all the breweries.

[@HappilyEverHanks]

Have a wonderful time Donna!! 🤗

[@thekittycatnetwork]

Biltmore House is amazing!

[@Erin-Thor]

My issue with overnighting at rest stops is noise. Always near a highway, cars and trucks coming and going all night, engines idling, people talking, drinking, etc. I’ve never ever had a good nights sleep at a rest stop. Sure for a pit stop, but otherwise just a big heck no. 😂

[@HappilyEverHanks]

You and me both! It never is a good night sleep at the rest areas... traffic noise tends to keep us from falling into a deep sleep 😅

[@baskervillebee6097]

Careful at cityparks. Some close about midnight to keep down mischief makers, but there will be clear signage. The thing is if you nap in the afternoon and then drive away the traffic will be less.

[@sarahs.6457]

My husband is a OTR trucker and he will turn off his truck when its cool out. But runs the AC when its warm or hot. You can also reserve a parking spot a head of time on the TA app at truck stops.

[@vbjage]

We have had some of our most fun experiences at Harvest hosts. Meeting other Rvers and hanging out has been awesome. Word to the wise, like was mentioned, some/most HH owners request you support them, but some have minimum requirements (min $20 or min 2 bottles of wine, etc...). This is usually noted on the app, but if it is not, it may worth the call to confirm. We added on Boondockers welcome this year and are looking forward to those stays as well! Maybe, just maybe, one day we'll cross paths with y'all and kick it for a night! :)

[@HappilyEverHanks]

Great information!! Thank you for sharing 🤗 Love this! Hope to see ya out there soon!!

[@HappilyEverHanks]

Get pumped for this upcoming RV season! We hope that this provides a little more insight on other options rather than Wally World. Let us know what we missed in the comments below! *Mentioned In This Episode* 🏡 Boondockers Welcome bit.ly/3oxgHpj _Save 10% with our code: HANKS21_ 🗺 RV LIFE Trip Wizard - RV Trip planning & GPS tripwizard.rvlife.com/#60b775d9afa07 _Save 25% with our code: THANKSHANKS_ 🍷 Harvest Hosts harvesthosts.com/host-locations/ _Save 15% with our code: THANKSHANKS_ 🏕 AllStays Pro www.allstays.com/proamember/aff/go/happilyeverhanks

[@haziecouponss5805]

Good video with lots of great resources! Thank you, we went ahead and registered for Boondockers too!

[@RealVanWife]

This is awesome - we are a travelling family in Australia. We want to do the USA I love you have a trailer (we call them caravan) do you have any worries unhooking and leaving the trailer?

[@SummerAdventures]

@@RealVanWife I use a hitch lock if I'm going to leave the trailer.

[@laureldell7377]

Tennessee has passed a new law that makes unauthorized camping a class E FELONY. That will start happening everywhere. I have been warning vehicle dwellers about this for years because I lived that life when you weren't allowed to park ANYWHERE except paid sites and that defeats the purpose. It's only one signature away from a lot of people left with nowhere to go so I wouldn't keep recommending it.

[@SummerAdventures]

@@laureldell7377 one article I read about that law is that it's primarily aimed at homeless people. They also have to give a 24 hour warning prior to any charges. It also seems like the law won't be enforced much...

[@davidgoosen1633]

This is all very helpful once you Wade through all the drama. She makes list because that's how she keeps it together in her brain to make things happen. You're lucky to have her!!!

[@karenhirschkorn2360]

Love how you two kid around... all in fun! Plus lots of good information! Love your channel, had to subscribe. 👍🏼❤️ stay safe!

[@heatherrenton2086]

Walmart is ok occasionally as an overnight spot. Generally I stay at a Walmart on a restock/resupply day, when I have laundry to do, banking, my dog needs a bath, I nee d a shower, I get as much stuff done in a couple half days and an overnight. I was a Boondockers Welcome Host for a time. I loved having guests.