Have you ever wished you could just travel? Not worry about the finances of it, or where to stay, or even where to go? Do you wish there was a way you could just go?
Well, I’m glad I can be the one to deliver the good news.
And it’s not just good news- it’s tried and true, which in my book makes it great news! Enough with the build up- Let’s get into it!
If you have a vehicle, you can go wherever you want. You can take a trip to the lake, the beach, the mountains, or wherever your heart desires. As long as it’s on a piece of land and there are roads connecting you to your destination, you can go wherever you want.
And, your car isn’t just good for taking you places. It can also be your home while you’re on the road. Now, hear me out.
I’m sure you’re having either one of two reactions to this:
- Umm, not what I was expecting… but I’ll hear you out
- Yes! Tell me more!
Regardless of your initial thoughts, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of how to travel for free (or close to it)
Let’s talk money: How is this possible?
Other than gas money, there really aren’t any necessary expenses. If you want to pack water and food before you leave, and you’re just doing an overnight (or two) at the beach, you won’t need much. Bringing a portable charger means you won’t need to stop anywhere for a charge up and you won’t need to drain your car battery for any impromptu late night Netflix marathons. Even if you didn’t want to pack anything to eat, you can certainly eat a couple of cheap meals on the road.
So, where do I sleep?
Well, in your car- but I know that’s not what you meant. Where do you park your car? I personally find that parking in Walmart parking lots are almost always the safest bet. They’re usually well-lit, have security cameras, and have overnight workers at the store, so your car won’t be the only one in the parking lot. My advice is to just ask a store associate if it’s alright for you to overnight park in their parking lot, and if they say that’s fine, park near a more private area of the parking lot. If there are medians, or trees, or both, try to park nearby! These offer a little bit more separation and privacy than spots in the middle of nothing. Plus, you won’t be the first one to do this! There are several YouTube videos of people explaining how they camp in their car, and it often includes a Walmart parking lot!
How do I keep my privacy?
This is a cheap fix- go to your local Lowe’s or Home Depot and buy a roll of reflective insulation (this is the same stuff that comes precut for you to put in your windshield when it’s sunny outside) and a couple large cardboard boxes. Cut out the cardboard boxes to fit your windows, and cut the insulation to the same size as the cardboard cutouts. Secure the two together, and you instantly have sturdy, insulating, privacy covers for your windows.
How do I stay safe?
This is a valid concern, and your gut knows best! If you get into an area that doesn’t feel great, it’s completely up to you where to go next. That’s the beauty of this! You’re not held down to just one location. Other safety tips are to tell people where you end up for the night, choose a well-lit area with security cameras, and keep you phone charged and pepper spray on hand. Another tip is to keep your keys close by, so if you need to set off your alarm, or turn on your car quickly, you have the ability to do so.
If you want to know more, stay tuned on my instagram @anolivewrites to come along with me on all of my future adventures!
An Olive Writes 