Living in a Van | I Can't Find a Place to Sleep 😩

[@MelindaMc]

In the 50 and 60's there were messages on TV saying don't drive tired instead pull over to the side of the road and rest to avoid an accidents.

[@TomHeid1]

One of the places I used to park in were bar parking lots. It was common for cars to be left over night in those lots so I was never messed with.

[@noturningback2023]

Good idea, except ppl who are drunk might be more inclined to try to break into a van. I like Cracker Barrel the best.

[@smartazz61]

That's a really good idea. I grew up in the 60s/70s. It would be normal for me to think I was too buzzed up the drive. I'd just pull over in any parking lot really, pull a blanket and pillow out of the trunk and crash. I got a knock once or twice, to the cop I pulled over cause I had too much, and they'd say, "good idea, take care." How things have changed. For the worse.

[@audrealambert9583]

Good idea just scope out any sign telling you there's a towing company that comes around to check the lot after 4am🙏💖🗽

[@rebeccarpwebb4132]

And there's Loves truck stops all over

[@BLUERAVENWANDERER]

Thanks never thought of this.

[@johnalarcon5006]

If you're ever around Los Angeles and need a place to crash in your car I have a big driveway and bathroom that you can use toilet shower ect , I know you are a good person that i can trust around my family !

[@marklennox2151]

I don't do residential. I'm in casino lot right now footloose and fancy free. Find your spots and keep them to yourself.

[@joanreid1319]

I love that you showed the whole process of finding a place to park. That is one thing I am not confident in yet. Also liked your commentary as you searched. Thanks for posting!

[@susanmaguire9009]

Also depends what you are driving. I’m in a minivan. I’m tucked in by 5 and leave when I want to. Streets next to apartments or condos. Look for signs though.

[@noturningback2023]

@@susanmaguire9009 Also fences around the corner from houses in residential areas work too. I found that though Walmarts have signs up saying no overnight parking, it's OK to park there.

[@colleenkerr6996]

@@noturningback2023 I live in Cleveland Oh and our Walmart allows people to sleep in the lot. Our lot is freaken huge so trucks, van life and people traveling for holidays always park in this one section that that no customers park because it's a long walk to the store entrance. We also have a lady who is homeless and lives in her RV. She practically lives in the Walmart parking lot. Never moves but u never really see her, and she don't throw trash everywhere. Our Walmart is right off the freeway so we get tons of truckers

[@lisamillerbuchert9447]

@@colleenkerr6996 some twnshps don’t allow parking. Ours has signs no pkg. ever since Covid we don’t have 24 hr Walmarts so the police will definitely check out any vehicle with a no pkg sign. They’d probably fine you.

[@matthewkeating6970]

Park before dark. Try a depo ups or fed ex they are in most towns and fill up at 5am-9pm so you blend in.

[@michelle7352]

If you have empty gallon jugs, you can fill with triple filtered water at the machine in front of store where those giant jugs are. It's just $.39 per gallon. Cheaper than any pre bottled water.

[@noturningback2023]

At 2:50, it looked like Boulder Flatirons in the distance (?). I like Cracker Barrel best to park in. Also good ol' Walmart. Or 24-hour Planet Fitness parking lots too.

[@patriciawashington8780]

when y’all have a hard time finding a car park try the hospital because they have cars parked over night often

[@shiningstar2903]

Anyone tried rural hospital lots? Usually, parking is free and few EMS sirens. In a pinch, city hospital parking max per 24 hours is 14.25 in Alberta.

[@BLUERAVENWANDERER]

Thank you for showing the real real about vanlife. I feel your struggle girl just need a safe place to park.

[@kathylenn9153]

I am so sorry you are having such trouble finding a place to rest. Over my 77 yrs of camping I have learned to plan in advance to get off the road no later than 4 PM each day. This always allows me time to unwind & enjoy the end of the day. Many travelers will wait until dark then try to find a place which causes anxiety levels to rise beyond measure. Why spoil a good day by failing to plan. Fuel fill ups should always commence when tank is half full. Waiting until nearly empty is never a good thing. Keeping food supplies at their maximum is also a good thing . Once I had a major breakdown requiring towing and being unable to get any where from a Friday p.m to the next Tuesday waiting on a part. I learned then, as I was immobile in my van, the importance of ample water and food supplies was a necessities, rather than going without in a remote situation. My mom used to say " failing to plan or plan to fail" sadly lessons learn the hard way are never a good thing

[@BLUERAVENWANDERER]

@@kathylenn9153 thank you so much for all the good advice , its been a learning experience but in the end I'm realizing its a lifestyle that I'm not only getting used to but actually liking it.

[@nelsonamoreno6841]

Yes , safe place is very important

[@LiveFree123]

Seriously, I always look forward to seeing your videos. ❤

[@travelsnacks]

Aww thank you 😊

[@doofusadventures4486]

I spend the day at Morro Rock and the night at Home Depot in SLO. There’s a pullover spot on Hwy 1 just south of San Simeon.

[@travelsnacks]

Great info. Thanks for sharing!

[@CarrieMtn]

Walking into the See’s candy made me smile. I lived for 10 years in NoCal and it brought back memories- I think we have a few in Colorado- but it’s not the same.

[@Erin60147]

My husband and I just left from two nights in Cayucos. Great area!

[@travelsnacks]

Sounds like a great place!

[@judygilleland9384]

Hospital parking lots that have emergency rooms. I noticed when my relative had surgery there were cars there 24/7 patients and staff coming and going.

[@travelsnacks]

Yes! I've parked in Hospital parking lots a couple times.

[@rosemarie6545]

I was relieved when you found a parking spot! Glad you were cautious.

[@travelsnacks]

Thank you and yes, even though it took longer I was glad I found a spot where I was comfortable.

[@pameladenton2869]

I bought 3 cheesy bean and rice burritos for my lunch the next 3 days. They microwave well. Three meals for under $5.

[@lynnnunezwhitlock1073]

I use “White noise for babies “ album.. has FAN NOISE .. blocked out even generators..

[@n.m.3981]

Hey Allison, just saw a video channel (butterfly tracks) with 30 tips and gadgets shared at a meetup of senior ladies living the van/camper life. You might enjoy some of the tips. Love your videos. Praying for you, be well

[@beverlybalius9303]

I don’t know why Car Parks are not created like they have all over Europe and Canada.. they are designated Overnight parking… not like a camper park that you pay for,, they are free areas you just pull into and park for the night.

[@Birdbike719]

Interesting video. I understand that feeling of not wanting to get out to run errands. Your video just made me tired from all the stops. LOL Love the seals.

[@AliAnn-330]

I'm so homesick! MB is my stomping grounds and I haven't been back since my dad passed away 10 years ago. When I left I didn't know it would be the last time I would be going home. I planned on taking a road/car camping trip 7n 2020. Yeah, that didn't happen! But Summer of 2023 it will!

[@64MAGA24]

I’ve parked in morro bay, downtown numerous times. Just go to where apartments are and no signs that say “no parking overnight” and I left early in the morning. Stayed for a week. Always n different spots. Good luck.

[@twosistersandacocktail3284]

Aww your so sweet! Thank you for the love ❤️ ❤

[@travelsnacks]

Any time! Love ya 🥰

[@rosannw9357]

We absolutely LOVE Morro Bay...it is our favorite get away and only a few hours away from home. I recognize many of the spots you drove by. Really enjoy the seals barking. I think down by the marina across from the state park they DO allow overnight parking because of all the boat owners. I prefer Peet's ground coffee to Starbucks brand, have you tried that? My favorite thing at Taco Bell is the Crunchwrap Supreme. Enjoyed the video...hope you get your tooth fixed ASAP!

[@TXGranny2]

Fyi TX has Upside too for when you come to visit your son over the holidays

[@MrRKWRIGHT]

The best Taco Bell menu item for eating while driving is the wholly intact Crunchwrap Supreme, as long as you don't unfold it in order to add hot sauce before starting to eat it. If you absolutely must have it with hot sauce, tear open the aluminum pack, slide it under one of the folds and squeeze and then gently smoosh the Supreme with the palm of your hand. . Your dominant hand on the wheel, with a Crunchwrap Supreme in the other, rolling down the road - now that's freedom.

[@QueenBaha]

🌸💗thanks for showing everyone what its REALLY like, GAWSH I enjoy this channel🤭💗🌸

[@travelsnacks]

Thanks for watching!

[@LOTStreets]

I have never had that problem and I even do urban stealth camping

[@hollyfisher8811]

YUM😋~I absolutely love See's Candies since my Sweet Mama was an addict to their treats🍫:) Will definitely be trying that maple one since it is my very FAV flavor!! Trying to find sleep spots would be the most challenging part of being on the road, especially when wiped-out exhausted😓, is finding an allowed & safe place to finally rest!! Thanks for sharing all the parts, including frustrating, of van life...

[@michellecastaneda4104]

Two thing not easy on the road, finding a place to park and sleep and making new friends

[@travelsnacks]

So true!

[@coffeetime777]

Glad you checked out the local grocers in the area. They are pretty good on having stuff in stock. Have fun travels. Also ask locals about camping areas.

[@shoreyalys6394]

If you ever come to AZ, we will totally entertain you for a few days! You had me at See’s candy!

[@travelsnacks]

Can't go wrong with See's!

[@kirstenjones5331]

Ohhh. See’s candies. I miss their Bordeaux bars!

[@JeffeysMom]

I got stuck in Houston Tx last weekend, no problem finding place Fri n Sat but even after getting permission I got chased out at 130 sun night/Mon morning😢 ugh! I am a disabled senior in a wheelchair so it takes a bit more than just jumping in the driver seat and leaving😢

[@coryjefferson6477]

Sorry you experienced this. Houston is my home town. Glad to hear you passed through. Wish I could have helped out.

[@JeffeysMom]

@@coryjefferson6477 Thankyou very much!

[@finaldestinationnowhere8373]

Best place I have found to park near Morro Bay is up by penny rock near the reservoir. I've stayed there several times passing through and never had a problem. The only downside is no cell phone signal for Verizon up there.

[@joeyjennings9548]

ive lived the sleep rollercoaster life. i dont think we are ever alone anymore. being on both sides its hard to find a sleep safe spot and having a home now i cant say i want some stranger parking on my property. but as life goes & world is it could be me out there again? in town and around now theres lots of homeless camps in many wooded areas.... they come out pace back & forth holding a sign at different intersections. backpacks & bikes.. sure should be a place everyone can have place to be..

[@flowers3036]

That is just lovely wow there are still kind people out there!

[@doofusadventures4486]

Brown Butter Bakery in Cayucos. Yum!

[@travelsnacks]

Ohh sounds great 😊

[@abridalmaven]

I love soft taco supreme with no tomatoes ( causes inflammation).

[@marysue7165]

I love Sees Candies. I like their suckers best. I wish I had one near where I live

[@travelsnacks]

Oh yes there suckers are delicious!

[@kuj106]

I had a similar experience finding parking in LA when I went for some concerts. I ended up parking in front of apartments as well. I would park in the morning after spaces would open up and stay parked there all day since I would be out and about. Then at night I would leave or stay nd leave the morning after.

[@beverlystewart6018]

I think the exhaustion is the worst part of being homeless in my car

[@ThatGirlLib]

Some people just make it chaotic and difficult.

[@fabulouspinkmk10]

I too found your sharing the real life process for looking for a spare to Park captivating. I remember my husband and going on vacation with my sister and my brother in law, in their RV. We also had a challenge finding a place to over night park in Morro Bay. We ended up on some road, with another parked vehicle. It took us over an hour, but we did it. Winding down after that took sometime. Your a patient woman, you really are👍

[@iwilson6651]

In San Diego you’re best bet Is mission bay (except 2-4am) the oceanside/aliso creek park and rides and the industrial areas in north county.

[@DebbiAnn2]

I have been told that Cracker Barrel welcomes overnight parking whether it be an RV or a van!

[@travelsnacks]

Yes that's true! I wish there were more of them.

[@Lakiea79]

When you are riding around and around like this just find a Walmart and park there....I'm exhausted just watching I slept in my car and I would always try to think ahead where I'm gonna sleep for the night.

[@dawnr714]

Haha I wonder what the seals were saying? 😄😄

[@freyaaurorawilding]

We have got to talk 🙂 We spent one month boondocking in Morro Bay! It was so amazing! And nobody bothered us. It was so cool seeing you drive on the streets we know pretty well. If you want to go back, we'll share our fav spots.

[@mikebrady1767]

Sweet dreams. I have faced similar decisions looking for a place to park and sleep without drawing attention to myself before. Usually nobody notices you if you’re quiet, curtains drawn and lights out. Dead end streets are usually okay as most people don’t go there.

[@ruthgrover3335]

I have had a place to sleep and my 4 years age. Find a car dealers at closed. But your truck next to the trucks for sale. Move early in the morning before staff comes in. One I did a great place but there was a police on the road watching the drivers. He see me drive here and he drive in front of the vehicle. I jump out and said, “I but you wonder why a drove in here. My Aunts birthday today but she is old and I waiting later in the morning” p. The policeman said, “Lock your doors.” It was great and a story that is true!

[@michaelhernandez3041]

In some cities there are police sub stations around the periphery of the city and they are all located with huge parking lots and after seeing I wonder would they begrudge someone 1 night somewhere safe.

[@tammicole4841]

Love the butterscotch lollipops! I just received my order yesterday. I buy them by the box! Every other month auto ship! Will try the squares next time! Great video! So inspirational! 😊

[@jackdeth2004]

My oldest just spent the weekend in Morro Bay with her husband. When they came to pick up my granddaughter, she announced that that is where they will retire.

[@oakilahmmed9017]

The more I watch your video, the more I like it, your 🇧🇩 Bangladeshi fans

[@ChristineExplores]

Glad you finally found a place to park! I’m back in Santa Cruz now, so just up the coast from you! Follow your gut instincts! That neighborhood with the steep winding streets would have creeped me out too. 😅

[@salyluz6535]

Chicken power bowl, add onions, extra tomatoes, extra black beans. Actually I much prefer to make this at home and make it with baby spinach, quinoa & brown rice, + whatever other yummy stuff like my own salsa and Greek yogurt! Oh no now I’m getting hungry!! 😯

[@debranielsen2002]

So am I! 😋

[@OhHapppyDaay]

Get Starbux coffee grounds right there in Walmart for a fraction of the Starbux store cost. 🤗 OK get whole bean Starbux at Walmart and grind it to your specifications 😃 Mmmmmm, just think of how scrumptious your home will smell 😋

[@Purpleroses]

You May Need To Look For Places During The Day.

[@veronicafoxx27]

For me at Taco Bell I get the steak quesadillas. Also I know the feeling about parking when I was living in my car. You just get a feeling like it's not safe rtc

[@mcmag888]

Hospitals, state rest areas, travel stop gas stations, KOA’s etc- there are plenty of places if you know where to look.

[@nelsonamoreno6841]

i was living in my car couple nights in i do in the shopping parkings feel more safe because in night no many cars there but the gyms is more better access to everything special shower and badroom !

[@STANDupPhilosopher73]

Just found your channel, you seem pretty cool, look forward to riding along =)

[@juliecastagnaro2868]

Happy that you and your bud could snack together.

[@joylee7274]

I sleep in my car several years ago and I find it most difficult to park to sleep. It's the most challenging thing.

[@travelsnacks]

Most nights are ok, but sometimes it can be so frustrating finding a good spot.

[@joylee7274]

@@travelsnacks I can identify with you. Hope you get to find a good place to park to sleep every night.

[@Shel731]

Bean burrito extra sauce and crunchy taco with tomato easy simple Yummm

[@thatvanlady193]

Most of the time I over think , it's just me being too sleepy & paranoid.

[@overlandjunky5535]

Sleep in wataburger parking lot. They own 24hrs. That's where I sleep when I'm in my van.

[@TheJanet4321]

My kind of person - Mexican food, coffee and chocolate! Some of the finer things in life.😊

[@travelsnacks]

Yes indeed!

[@witteney3334]

What about hotel parking lots? Do they monitor those closely? I’ve heard hospitals are a good place also.

[@dontXtheGunLine]

Yes no issues at er parking,but some hotels have guest give liscence plate and description of the vehicle the came in

[@Raquel6470]

I had two tacos from Taco Bell about two weeks ago. Before that it been 18 years since I last ate there. But when I was a regular, I loved that pizza taco they had. They still have that? Love your videos thanks for sharing

[@rvgrandmacharlotte4604]

Love Taco Bell. On a budget so usually get the cheese, beans and rice burrito or a bean burrito with senior drink (free at my TB).I also love tacos but order fresco to cut calories. Love the Crunchwrap Supreme also - but no sour cream.

[@slewmayhew9515]

You are eating my favorite candy - walnut cream. Walmart is never stocked as they should be. I just try Target instead which I am finding cheaper than Walmart. Stay safe.

[@traceyweeks6897]

My favourite taco Bell is the beef super crunch supreme mmmm I also don't eat it often as it's not good for you but it's yummy

[@travelsnacks]

Niiice! Yeah I try not to eat Taco Bell too much but it calls to me lol

[@thatvanlady193]

I don't have much luck with ioverlander. It sends me to some very strange places . But sometimes I get lucky

[@forest1butterfly]

Cool vibes🤟💯💥

[@hdjksa52]

Have you ever had a situation that you parked in a neighborhood and someone knocked on your van or car in the middle of the night?

[@travelsnacks]

Yes! A couple times. It was pissed off residents or teenagers.

[@salyluz6535]

@@travelsnacks: I know you talked about this once before, but I’m trying to remember what you did. Did you stay quiet til they left?

[@magnaesca165]

@@travelsnacks What were they pissed off about?

[@larryrobertstein7485]

Yes Magna. What kind of person would get up in the middle of the night to investigate a parked vehicle on a public street? Be happy they're there . They might deter a burglar. Or maybe they're just wanting to get a night's sleep .

[@salyluz6535]

@@magnaesca165: Sometimes they don’t like where you are parked, like sometimes they think you should be a resident to park there.

[@michelle7352]

I love Taco Bell. My usual is a black bean instead of meat burrito supreme, or that flat tortilla folded over and grilled. I can never remember the name and have to seek it out on the menu every time. It's like a chalupa wrapped in a flour tortilla. I ask for black beans in place of meat here too.

[@adriennevanquill1263]

I love love Taco Bell!! My regular order is two bean burritos, no onion + sour cream, a beef chalupa, and a crunchy taco, no tomato. Yum!!

[@recordingroadtrips]

Haha, I feel ya. One wouldn't think it's so hard - and I guess it isn't if you don't mind where you sleep. But I've been driving for HOURS before, just looking for a nice place where I don't bother anyone and where I could be sure that no one would bother me (by knocking at the windows early in the morning or such).

[@rachelmisc]

I could be way off here but what about Hotel parking lots - in a pinch? The ones w/ a lot of cars/trucks might work to blend in. No way they can watch every car. You could bug out early. Be safe out there. 👍

[@naturetrails8217]

Taco supreme are my favorite

[@RacieRain]

So many people are living in their vans.

[@monana1711]

I try other things sometimes, but I really like nachos bell grande at Taco Bell. Praying for you.

[@creepycarla4550]

It’s the worst part of vanlife imo. Sometimes I miss not thinking about where I’ll sleep.

[@bevr2164]

We have 2 or 3 Taco Bell's near my city. 30 miles west of St. LOUIS. My favorite is crunchy cheesy gordita. Very filling❣

[@samarhmin3747]

When I can’t find a place to park and sleep last resort is a travel center or rest area….😢

[@TammyGail]

I love the double decker taco's with nacho cheese. Mm good.

[@travelsnacks]

This is my kinda order!! Yum 🤤

[@shannonvibes]

Girl. Get a chessy gordita crunch wrapped with a dorrita taco shell with blk beans no spicy ranch add Creamy Jalapeño thank me later. So good! Mad I only bought one!

[@lagreengavanlife]

I use both of those gas apps too. I really like them. Your van looks so nice Allison. When I paint mine I plan on using the same undercoating paint. Hopefully they have it in GREEN 😅😂.

[@efaisst]

Thanks a bunch for your videos. At Taco Bell it is always 2 Cheesy bean and rice burritos and 2 crunchy tacos. Burritos first, tacos for dessert :)

[@kathleenj1158]

I love Taco Bell's Nacho Bell Grande. It's been a while since I had it, so I don't even know if they have it. I love burritos & tacos, too. ☺

[@travelsnacks]

They do still have it! I love the nachos too.

[@martna1]

How does your fridge work?

[@travelsnacks]

I have an outlet wired to my inverter. So there’s a regular outlet behind the fridge. And it’s powered by solar/battery.

[@thedesertshulamite1967]

Have you ever tried Vanly?

[@kathleennorton7913]

A person can burn up quite a bit of gas looking for a place to sleep. It seems putting up the front window blocks sort of causes you to look like you are sleeping in there. Wouldn't a block between the front and back be more unnoticeable? Could you please make a Playlist of videos having to do with finding places to sleep? I'd watch them. Thank you!😇

[@nisagomez4366]

Exactly. For sleeping I use a blackout curtain behind the front seats. I ignore knocks as long as I am parked legally on the street although that has rarely happened.

[@ericnorthman9410]

Did you get a new van?

[@KellySandra716]

Great Data grabber app for the green deal. (I'm neither here nor there on that) Neways.... We also have that app in NYs where you get money back.

[@jeanmariemissale5663]

I always eat the 5 layer burrito , or three soft tacos

[@jeanmariemissale5663]

If you have a infection in a tooth brush with baking soda peroxide toothpaste a poor peroxide . But also take a piece of fresh garlic . Scrape the garlic and put the juice on your tooth . I had a absause and put a scraped sliver of garlic . The infection was gone and swelling the next day .

[@dewdropn5619]

3 beef crunchy tacos. Yum!

[@legalpuppy8602]

I live in San Antonio. Taco Bell is pretty much a sin here. 😆

[@Galen-864]

LOL! Colorado here, same.

[@travelsnacks]

Oh I bet! 😆