Can You Sleep In Your Van At Public Parking Lots?
Living in a van gives you a freedom and mobility that many people don’t have the luxury of. However, parking challenges are very often a major hurdle in the nomadic lifestyle. Not only can it be a struggle to find a spot to sleep in on any given night, but in many places it’s completely illegal to do so in public parking lots.
If you’re considering living in your van or already live in your van, the question of if you can park and sleep in public parking lots is an important one to ask. It’s something that you must consider before you go out on the road. The answer may vary depending on where you travel.
The Laws Around Sleeping In Your Van In Public Parking Lots
Generally speaking, in most jurisdictions parking overnight in public parking lots is prohibited. Exact laws vary from area to area, so do your research before you park. Most often it’s enough to just call the local police station and ask if you are allowed to park overnight in the area.
You’ll also most likely need to stay aware of any signs in the lot which might restrict overnight parking. Many public parking lots explicitly prohibit overnight parking, even if the law in your area doesn’t.
Alternative Options To Public Parking Lots
If you can’t legally or conveniently park in public lots, you have a few other options. Most places offer designated places to park overnight, typically in designated rest stops. You can also look into camping grounds, RV parks, and hostels. Another great option is to find friends or family that are okay with you staying with them.
You can also try to find a nearby private property owner who'd be willing to let you park in their lot for free (or a small fee). This last one can be tricky since they are sometimes hard to find, and might not be open to the idea of letting you park on their property.
Tips For Sleeping In Public Parking Lots When Necessary
Even if it’s illegal to sleep in your van in the public parking lot in your town, you might be forced to do so at some point. In this case, there are a few tips you can follow in order to stay safe. For one, try to park in well lit public spaces with a lot of activity whenever possible. This reduces the chances of being harassed or bothered in the night.
It’s also a good idea to park in strategically hidden spots in the parking lot. This helps you not draw too much attention to the fact that you are staying in the van overnight. This is another way to avoid uncomfortable situations.
The Bottom Line On Sleeping In Public Parking Lots
Sleeping in public parking lots can be a challenge when living in a van. It’s important to do your research and to stay aware of local laws. If it’s prohibited in your area, it’s best to find other options. However, if it comes to it and you end up having to stay in public spots, make sure to stay safe and hidden as much as you can.