Consumerism Commentary - Latest Comments in Extreme Frugality: Living Out of Your Car

Re: Extreme Frugality: Living Out of Your Car

Eric — Thu, 09 Sep 2010 15:14:28 -0000

I have three words for all you guys and gals who sleep in their vehicles - if you want privacy both in the day and night:-

TINT YOUR RIDE....

I have been sleeping in my car for more than one year, at first i didn't have any tint on my windows and i was forced to use several dark cloths to cover my windows at night...if you sleep in your car you will end up having lots of stuff in your car....laptops, blankets, etc....thieves only steal what they can see....so i decided to tint my windows....

i paid $75 for my tint.....and the minute i got into my car I was in a whole new world...i could see outside but they could not see me. the first tint i put on my windows was so dark and illegal [5% VLT], i had to row down my windows at night when i was driving. i managed to drive for several months without getting a ticket but i had to drive to 2000 miles to seattle WA. and back again, so i removed the tint in the front and put 35% tint, in the front windows. you can get a ticket if your tint is too dark.

Today I would never sleep in my car without tinted windows...even with tint you will still need windshield sunshades and several pieces of dark cloth if you want absolute privacy.

Re: Extreme Frugality: Living Out of Your Car

shawn — Thu, 03 Jun 2010 02:38:09 -0000

Great site. I enjoy car living in my 1988 corsica 2.8fi v6. Its great. And a great place to park is beside a lake. Or in summer time just go camping. Without the tent or with. Whatever is best for you. If the cops came. I will just say. I'm parked here so I can start early on my fishing. Good luck to everyone. God bless. Shawn from edmonton Alberta.

Re: Extreme Frugality: Living Out of Your Car

Mark — Mon, 17 May 2010 19:09:17 -0000

This is true. Just keep the keys in your pocket. Then it will seem that you were not wanting to drive while intoxicated, you were just sleeping. You can't be charged with DUI.

Re: Extreme Frugality: Living Out of Your Car

Bob Johnson — Wed, 05 May 2010 17:46:18 -0000

Always keep the keys OUT of the ignition if you are intoxicated. You can't be charged with anything. The police are mostly liberal when it comes to these circumstances. But there's always that ONE who's having a bad day and will take it all out on you. Just be honest----let's face it, the economy sucks and you will unlikely become the first car-liver he/she comes across on patrol.
No one here is homeless either. Your vehicle is your home. It's like an efficiency on wheels.

Re: Extreme Frugality: Living Out of Your Car

Dreamer — Tue, 04 May 2010 23:46:27 -0000

Hey everyone... Gonna make the plunge, start living out of the covered bed of a pick up truck. completely invisible to passersby. yay. my question is, what kinds of penalties are there for living out of your car? if the cops catch you and it's obvious you are living out of your car, what kinds of monetary fines are there? can they repo your vehicle? i'm sure it varies from city to city, i'm just wondering if the money saved on rent outweighs the potential and possibly recurring fines. thanks in advance to all who reply.

Re: Extreme Frugality: Living Out of Your Car

CLS — Sat, 03 Apr 2010 23:22:31 -0000

You're funny 184 Anaheim_Ducks_Hockey. Thanks for the invitation, but I have to gracefully decline. I do have a long story behind all this but I really don't want to get in to it. It's so funny that you mention I should rent from an older married couple. I did, that was the last place I rented. They were in their early 50's and she was a clepto. I didn't realize it until I moved out and realized all my brand new clothing was gone once I got to my new place. Every pretty thing I wore she made a fuzz over how much she liked and wanted to borrow and at the ended she ended up stealing it from me.

I did this to save money. Everything happened at the same time including a $500. camera ticket in the mail for a classic California Roll and after hearing all the doom and gloom in the news about the economy I thought this would be the best I could do. I'm not scared. I'm okay. I can't believe more than a year has gone by too. It went really fast and I learned a lot on how to live this lifestyle as comfortable as possible. I didn't save money though, but I have been paying the car and keeping a healthy lifestye.

My car still looks new and clean. I see that yours is newer. There is a new breed of car sleepers out there that aren't on skid row, we are just trying to make it in this terrible economy One of the people that I recognize parking where I park has a brand new infinity and he watches movies late at night. It's a new world. Please don't worry about me. I'm a strong girl.

Take care

Re: Extreme Frugality: Living Out of Your Car

Anaheim_Ducks_Hockey — Fri, 02 Apr 2010 04:30:01 -0000

December 29, 2008 at 7:27 pm

Yes cls, That is the date you first started to post. I have read all your posts and I know you've had a hard time. I;m moving for similar reasons. My neighborhood is crime ridden and my friend/landlord, ripped me off for 460.00. I am moving in a few days and I might park in a friends driveway or do the hotel parking thing. I do have a job, it's just not enough. I don't take drugs and I do not look like a "homeless person". I wish we could rent/share an apartment..haha, since you and I are in so. cal. That was a joke, I'm not a stalker lol.

Well, since everyone saye what knid of car their sleeping in, I guess I'll share mine. 2009 Chrysler Sebring, nice ride but interior is sorta small for me, being 6'1 in height.

I cannot believe you've been doing this for over a year...wow! Thankfully, I will only need a month or two. I wont ask about your family situation, cause I know how dysfunctional families can be. Mine is, and my parents are muti-millionaires. I gues I'm the black sheep, who didn't go to college and I broke their hearts and they basically dis-owned me. I've always worked, and worked hard. It seems a shame that you being a young female, is out on the street. If you were my sis or daughter, hell no.
I'm doing this to get ahead a little.
Like Bob said in a previous post, I'm worried about you. Rent a room, it's the cheapest way to go. You can find a good situation, just look. Try living in a married couples house. Maybe try living with older roommates, in their 40's/50's. I know a studio is better but a room is cheap and easy. Just find some good people. Take care CLS.

p.s I'm in Corona if you know where thats at. Yes, the crappy inland empire lol. If you want to talk to someone nice, who's not a weirdo, then email me and I will give you my cell number. No, I'm not trying to hit on you, just would like to talk, sometimes talking to other people helps. ATJL72@YAHOO.COM

p.p.s. If you're ever over this way, I'd be happy to buy you an early breakfast, or an late dinner, before we scout our places to park! :)

Re: Extreme Frugality: Living Out of Your Car

CLS — Fri, 02 Apr 2010 00:23:01 -0000

Hi 87 Anaheim_Ducks_Hockey,

I don't know how far back you started reading this blog, I started writing a couple of months before I took the plunge in February 2009, and I explain how due to my past terrible roommate experiences I made my decision to sleep in my car instead of paying someone that's going to rob me.

Re: Extreme Frugality: Living Out of Your Car

Anaheim_Ducks_Hockey — Thu, 01 Apr 2010 06:41:26 -0000

CLS,

I appreciate you telling me, I know it's hard. I think most people woiuld need a van if they have a pryer of doing it for mor than a month or two. I know I would. My car will have to do, I only need a month or so. I have no one to stay with but I think I can park in a friends driveway. Otherwise it's hotels and truckstops or wherever. Hang in there and get a room for rent, they're cheaper. Then you can find an apartment. Most everyone would love to rent to a female vs. a male living in their home. I wish you and everyone else, all the best!

Re: Extreme Frugality: Living Out of Your Car

CLS — Wed, 31 Mar 2010 22:52:20 -0000

Hi 189 Anaheim_Ducks_Hockey
I don't know what would be best when it comes to the cops. I would think that the only way they would know you're lying is if you've been spotted sleeping in the same spot for a while and then you tell them it just happened because you were tired. The one time I had the dreadful nightmare of having the cops pounding with flashlights in my car, I was sleeping in an industrial area and I know it was a big truck that pulled up behind me and saw me so he called them. I told them I had an argument with my boyfriend and left. They asked for my license and registration and I told them I didn't know I was doing anything wrong and I would go home now. The 2 questions they asked were if I was having sex in the back seat of the car and then they asked if I had home. I answered no and yes. I apologized and said I'm going home then and left. The way they were pounding on my glass stayed stuck in my head for months. It was terrifying.

The parking situation is a big problem if you want to be frugal and save money on rent by sleeping in your car. The other thing is how comfortable are you going to be sleeping in your car? I'm a petite girl and I'm a little too big for comfort but somehow I've managed. I've been doing this since February 2009 and it's starting to get old. As soon as I can, when I get hired full time on this temp to hire part-time job I now have, I plan to rent a studio apartment somewhere.

There are no truck stops around where I stay, but I remember hearing on the news that because of the bad economy they are going to start closing them down. The story that Jaime told up above is scary.

I wish you all the best!

Re: Extreme Frugality: Living Out of Your Car

Jaime — Wed, 31 Mar 2010 11:35:41 -0000

Ahh, this question. When I was on the road, I looked into truck stops as a safe haven for sleep without the dreaded knock of the cop. Unfortunately, I came upon a truck-driver forum, all about Lot Lizards, that made me change my mind fast.

Apparently, some truck stops are in such condition (and location) that these crack-addled "ladies of the night" will open any locked doors and begin their performance without confirmation just to get some cash, or to steal your stuff and resell it for that next hit.

There used to be a truck-driver forum that spoke of the safe vs. the worst stops. Blast that I can't find it now. But I believe it was on this site, and here is a similar query:
http://www.thetruckersrepor...

I <3 Walmart and campgrounds. National & State Forests are a LOT cheaper than National or State Parks, just not as many amenities. Walmarts, if you can nest yourself between a few RVs, aren't the BEST of sleep, but they really help to supplement the budget. Plus, I'll usually go in and buy an item under $10 to support the store - or because I had to pee and didn't want to be seedy. : )

How much a cop pays attention to you varies by local ordinance - The good guys will move you along, the bad ones will harass you AND move you along. In my town, we've had officers give homeless a ride north to the next city, just to get them out of our village.

Re: Extreme Frugality: Living Out of Your Car

Anaheim_Ducks_Hockey — Wed, 31 Mar 2010 06:52:11 -0000

Hi CLS,

I understand re the police. But if you lie, won't they know you're living/sleeping in your car and be more hostile??? Please give me some info.

Do sob stories work or shouls I avoid them and just say I got tired or use another excuse. I thought lying would be worse than try to play the sob story. Like you just need a few weeks or a month and you'll be back off the streets.

As far as hotels, medium size ones work well with out security guards. They have multiple entrances, use one that does'nt go by the front lobby. Park in back, away from street sight. Sleep soundly! You don't want a nice/ritzy place and you don't want a small roach motel.

Re: Extreme Frugality: Living Out of Your Car

Anaheim_Ducks_Hockey — Wed, 31 Mar 2010 06:39:54 -0000

Whoa,

I have done a ton o' reading...has anyone tried Flying J or TA truck stops?

I read they welcome rv's and motorists alike. They have certain areas for the non-truckers to park in over-night. Truck stops are huge, with lots of people so I believe they should be somewhat safe.

Walmarts seem to be cracking down. While truck stops don't come right out and say it's ok, they want our business. If staying overnight, like the truckers do, just be lo-key.

Please give your opinions and stories.

Re: Extreme Frugality: Living Out of Your Car

CLS — Tue, 30 Mar 2010 22:38:49 -0000

Well 184 Anaheim_Ducks_Hockey, you should do what is best for you. The experiences I've had with the police, along with other people close to me has taught me that honesty doesn't get you anywhere with them. They're not here to protect and serve me, they are here to screw me in anyway they can. I don't know, maybe you'll be lucky and really run in to a nice one, but that's very rare nowadays.

As for sleeping in Walmart, the RV's are allowed to park far away from the store so you don't really hear any noise from the customers going in and out of the store. I usually go late anyway so the store is closed by then. The hotel parking lot sounds good, but, I would worry about the clerk spotting you and calling the nice police officer. You'll see and learn. I've changed my routine around many times to make things work better. Good Luck!!!!!!

Re: Extreme Frugality: Living Out of Your Car

Wanderer — Tue, 30 Mar 2010 00:57:45 -0000

Well, I'm disabled living on a fixed income, and I decided to live in my little Ford Focus wagon after my wife kicked me out. I'm actually having a great time traveling around the country, and I plan on living the nomadic lifestyle as long as my health permits.

Re: Extreme Frugality: Living Out of Your Car

Anaheim_Ducks_Hockey — Sun, 28 Mar 2010 03:02:40 -0000

Thank u CLS.

I understand what you are saying. I have thought about this and have decided to try the hotel parking lots. Not many police go through those (at least, not the nicer ones) and I would park in back. As far as dealing with police, I would just tell them, I am temporarily sleeping in my car for a set amount of time. I have to be honest. I don't know how anyone could sleep in a Wamart parking lot, too much noise and activity. Hotel parking seems the most logical, safe, quiet place to be.

During the day, before work, I am allowed to park anywhere, pretty much. You can use public parks.

I really wanted to use state and fed campgrounds (called Prado regional park) but they charge 30.00 just to pinch a tent!!! That is ridiculous. K.O.A is not much better. R.v. parks are exspensive as well. I think it's ridiculous that a person cannot camp or park on public land...which we all pay for in our taxes, for free or a very reasonable fee.

Good luck everyone.

Re: Extreme Frugality: Living Out of Your Car

CLS — Sat, 27 Mar 2010 22:45:53 -0000

Hi 182 Anaheim_Ducks_Hockey,
From first hand experience, I have learned that our justice system is not just. The law is very unfair and they could do what ever they want because they have guns, bars and a court system that backs them up. You could always tell them you were driving home and felt really sleepy so for safety reasons you decided to take a nap because you didn't want to cause an accident. Isn't that what the driving manual recommends? You should be ready to give them a physical domicile address though just to cover yourself. As for looking for an overnight parking spot, I would look up the local Walmarts online, call them and ask if they allow overnight RV parking and park there. Also, now that summer is coming I recommend you find a shady spot to park during the day so that you don't roast at night.

Good Luck!

Re: Extreme Frugality: Living Out of Your Car

Anaheim_Ducks_Hockey — Sat, 27 Mar 2010 07:44:30 -0000

Hey CLS and other so. cali people,

I am in the inland empire area, do you have any tips or good parking spots for my car-living-adventure. I do work but need to get ahead and save some money. I need to know the laws as well. Please tell me they can't take your car if you're fully legal. As for giving you a ticket...REALLY, in todays times? What crappy cop would give a ticket to someone sleeping in their car, who is fully legal and without warrants???

Re: Extreme Frugality: Living Out of Your Car

Anaheim_Ducks_Hockey — Sat, 27 Mar 2010 07:01:43 -0000

OK, I have a question.

How can the police impound your vehicle if you're just taking a nap or sleeping in it temporarily? How is that legal? I am insured, have a valid license and registration. Can someone please answer this who knows the law. I would never let any officer take my vehicle, for just taking a nap or sleeping in it!!! Where is this car-vagrancy law?

Re: Extreme Frugality: Living Out of Your Car

CLS — Fri, 26 Mar 2010 20:34:40 -0000

I'm a female and I've been doing it for a little over a year now. I'm not afraid and lonely like. I feel like a true free spirit. If you would see me you would never suspect, I'm not on skid row so there is a difference. The only problem I have is that everything takes longer because I have to drive from one place to another for something that I could have right at my door if I had a home to live in. I have to drive to my storage to change my clothing, drive to the P.O.Box, drive again to the gym to shower whether I'm going to work out or not and to eat 3 meals a day is another extra mileage, gasoline and time. The good news is that I finally got a decent paying job. It'a only a temp to hire, part-time position but if they hire me permanently it will be a full time 40 hour a week job so I will be able to afford a place to live. The only reason I want to find a home is so I can save time.

Re: Extreme Frugality: Living Out of Your Car

Kimmie — Fri, 26 Mar 2010 15:29:33 -0000

I have been living in my car for five years.I have two incomes and I stress this is not a plausible way to live.If the elements don't kill you then the fear alone and depression will send you over the edge.How have I done it so long.I am a strong-minded human with good health but i personally hate it.You not save money because your vehicle and bills will use up what you have.This a unacceptable for a female so I suggest some other avenue.Please dont do this, you will someday regret it.

Re: Extreme Frugality: Living Out of Your Car

artie — Fri, 05 Mar 2010 17:35:58 -0000

please any info on camp sites in ( so. e. arizona ) needed= cost,= time stay= limits=what ever =thanks heaps= greatest site ive ever read about this subject so far=every one keep on= we dont have much freedom left ==

Re: Extreme Frugality: Living Out of Your Car

DAVE — Mon, 28 Dec 2009 17:41:26 -0000

Can you provide more information on this? I am new to the subject. My personal blog http://www.iblogme.com/crim...
.

Re: Extreme Frugality: Living Out of Your Car

Dan — Sun, 20 Dec 2009 20:37:41 -0000

I've always found that parking in an apartment complex is a relatively safe place to park overnight, and I've never been hassled by anyone, police or otherwise.

Many of the apartment complexes around this particular area are gated and have keypads at the entrance, which makes it an even more feasible place to stay overnight. You can either follow a car through the gate, or rush through an open exit gate after a car leaves.

I've managed to find out the keycodes to ~200 gated communities around the Houston Area (talking to management during the day, speaking with people who live there, or are out by the pool, etc). I recorded them all, and I have them organized in my laptop.

Being a smooth talker can help you find out stuff like that. Social engineering works wonders when it comes to surviving like we do.

Re: Extreme Frugality: Living Out of Your Car

Merc — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 21:37:23 -0000

alicia, do not live in your car in the winter and especially in colorado. It Sucks! Also, be careful about leaving your bike on your car, it might get stolen.

PS. I tried using a thermal survival blanket that somebody on this site suggested that I use, but condensation collects on it and makes everything wet and the cold still gets in.