I stayed in the Squamish Walmart for a week (nights only) the end of August with another vanlifer. Every night there were 50 vans. They all were gone during the day. What bothered us was the obvious van garbage including construction materials, old food and large cardboard boxes as well as all the other usual garbage. We spent several hours twice cleaning this up. I am also very concerned about losing that Walmart!

@Raminakai

Жыл бұрын

Sound like there is a need for free dumping areas where people could dispose of it legally. More and more places are limiting available cans and places to dispose of trash. One place that makes accommodations is Pilot. They always have cans for travel trash. Thanks.

@valnpaulvanorden

Жыл бұрын

@@Raminakai that's a campground...

@biggchill8176

Жыл бұрын

@@Raminakai no excuse to throw trash on the ground I’m sorry

@vickilssrb4405

Жыл бұрын

@@valnpaulvanorden Pilot is a fuel station /truck stop that allows overnight cars also. I actually just stayed in one a couple weeks ago. Felt very comfortable, very clean, great people. My go-to spot is usually a Love's, but it's nice to have another great choice also. ✌💙🚗🏕

@nolalove8909

Жыл бұрын

@@valnpaulvanorden campgrounds arent the only options regarding trashcans. Come on! Its a trashcan she is suggesting.

This is exactly on point. It does not matter if people camp overnight or discreetly for a couple of days, it is the garbage and self of entitlement that brings attention to their lack of respect for the surroundings. I live near Hope and this concern is evident up the Skagit, along the number one and along the rivers. It is not about people, there is no excuse for any garbage left behind. Ytube has also discussed this topic, a few do create problems for many. Thanks Emi.

@buttface9434

Жыл бұрын

also, its kind of funny when people are not local to an area and they look down on other transplants. a few more years and there will be hundred of people living at that walmart.

I am glad you talked about the people living there as a last resort, but also the need to be respectful of the property and opportunity to park there. It is difficult to find safe places to sleep overnight in my area (Delaware) because people have severely abused the privilege by leaving mounds of trash, defecating in the parking lot and not moving their vehicles for long periods of time. They have ruined things for everyone. But this is also a sign that things are changing in our world, and not for the good.

@kandelinaanderson817

Жыл бұрын

I'm parked at Walmart and I'm constantly picking up garbage around here because people leave there garbage all over and this is going to reck it for everyone else. This is a privilege to be able to park here.

@lindaberl3712

Жыл бұрын

@@kandelinaanderson817 💖

When I started my nomad life there were few people on the road and in the backcountry but with so many youtube channels showing the amazing lifestyle, it has brought thousands of people to the road. As the world economies fall apart it will bring more out. Having a piece of land to sit our rigs on might be the answer.

@rouxchat6033

Жыл бұрын

I'm seeing a noticeable increase in elderly homeless here in Oregon. Rentals, if one can find one, are outrageously expensive. I see elderly people more and more and it is obvious they are not on the streets by choice.

@catskill49murphy27

Жыл бұрын

That's what I did however due diligence is critical..Just because you own land doesn't mean you can do what you want with it.

@LadyGreyAgeingDisGracefully

Жыл бұрын

Yeah, maybe they could call it an RV park. Maybe they could charge a small rent and provide power, water and amenities.

@Lunarstruck1

Жыл бұрын

That's my goal, to create a kind of co op or buy land and start an Long Term cheaper RV park. People need this so badly.

@LadyGreyAgeingDisGracefully

Жыл бұрын

@@Lunarstruck1 I apologise if my sarcasm was too subtle. I’ll do better next time.

In Grants Pass, Oregon the Walmart no longer permits overnight parking. They used to but people abused it and completely trashed their parking lot. Now they pay a security service to monitor the parking lot day and night. It started small and became overwhelming very quickly.

@Baked13

Жыл бұрын

... why would you stay at Wallys went you're surrounded by national forest land ?

@rouxchat6033

Жыл бұрын

@@Baked13 Did I say I stay there? I've lived in OR for years and know the wilderness areas to stay. I'm simply reporting on what I've seen in the town where my family lives. Also, those trashing it and the rest of the area are homeless. Not those choosing a nomatic life by choice or vacationing but those drawn here from other areas because this area's government is so lenient and drugs are so available. They've taken over city parks, as well. They stay in town and trash everything around them. Many drugged out of their gourds. Walmart used to be an overnight rest for those traveling through to other locations but are tired and just want rest and to shop before continuing on the next day. Not those taking up permanent residence in the Walmart parking lot dumping garbage and trash everywhere and lining parking lot exits begging for money. If you offer them work for pay, they laugh in your face. Then they leave their rotted out, filthy RVs for Walmart to pay to remove. If you haven't witnessed this firsthand, then you are clueless and your remark is pointless.

Bass Pro Shops had been letting people stay overnight in their lots but they are reconsidering that owing to the RVers who use the lot as a base camp. They leave the RV and take off in their Toad to sight see and explore and return at night to sleep and do it again tomorrow...One of my homes in Florida is in a waterfront community where all of our parks have boat ramps and our R.E. taxes reflect this benefit. The parking lots are designed to accommodate vehicles with boat trailers however all the parking spots were being taken up by people living in RV's, School buses and camper vans and the boaters had no place to park their trucks and trailers. I'm sure, and my heart goes out to those people, that some weren't living in their vehicle by choice but they weren't helping their cause by effectively denying the people who pay for those parks and boat launch facilities the opportunity to use them. There's a middle ground here somewhere but it won't happen overnight and the people who need compromise the most need to police themselves or it will be ruined for everyone.

I remember back on 2016 when I first came across van life , what intrigued me the most was the sense of community, nomadic people coming together an being of service to one another, it's sad that their are people who are disrespectful an making it it hard for others

Thank you for the common sense, decency, and most of all, the kindness in this post, Emi. ♥

It's a shame when people are disrespectful, some are disgusting and mess things up for every one. This isn't only a problem in Walmart parking lots, it's a problem at rest areas, truck stops, emergency parking areas, it's a long list. Many people suffer for those that do this. It's sad but true.

they are shutting more and more places for people to stay in the past few months especially in our area; people are setting up tents down by the lake and river as well and staying . It is sad that our economy and government is giving people no options as there are no places to rent and nobody can afford the rent if they do find a place. Please stay safe and warm ; hugs

It's true, I live in my car with my dogs and every place I park at I always make sure there's no trash around me. But unfortunately you always come across people who just don't care and ruin it for everyone else. I'm homeless and I can keep running my car up and down the road to find a spot to sleep at.

@gretatheotherone4686

Жыл бұрын

Me too, same here🙏❤️

@theartisticnomad15

Жыл бұрын

Me as well.

@carlapogson7024

Жыл бұрын

Keep safe ❤❤❤

@canishalashaeQueenDom

Жыл бұрын

@@gretatheotherone4686 Same

@annawofford559

Жыл бұрын

so sorry

Thank you for making this video. You are helping to spread the word to many, who can influence the few, to stop them from ruining things. Many blessings. ❤️

Yes it is sad. It's becoming a problem everywhere. And it's not just VanLife popularity. Inflation, rent prices, food prices, gas prices....people have no more options......a perfect storm. I wish we could see an end in sight. But I am afraid it's just going to get worse. The worse it gets, more and more locations are going to ban camping. Then where will people go? Very Sad 😣

We people who are trying to 'stay put' due to low funds thank you, Emi, from the bottom of our hearts. The cost of a half-decent 1 brm in the Okanagan BC city I'm at would cost me my entire monthly income. I am serious: Living rough/outside my vehicle would be a killer for me. I say let's spread love and respect, not hate and garbage! ❤️🙏❤️🙏Emi

@SignedOff402

Жыл бұрын

I am in the same situation. I have been trying to keep my 14 year old minivan from breaking down. I am a Canadian in Florida.

This is becoming more and more of an issue because of selfish, disrespectful van lifers who feel that rules don't apply to them. They're dismissive attitudes hurt those of us who do follow the rules. It's super disappointing. Same thing has been happening at the location I stay at on & off in Coquitlam (You know the one I'm talking about, Emi). I spoke to City Workers who tend to that area and they said people are dumping their sani-tanks into the storm drains, and leaving human feces (yes, you heard me...human poop) and garbage behind. It's disgusting how some van/vehicle dwellers behave. It gives every one of us a bad name.

@caymanchristopher7014

Жыл бұрын

Wal Mart in Florida said they would have 5 OD’s per night among the van lifers. The pharmacy started carrying NARCAN until they finally closed the lots.

@NYCHFAN

Жыл бұрын

Good to see you, I miss your posts! I hope things are going well for you & your girls. How's Holly? ❤️❤️

Always told people that I've known that if they choose to do the van life that it's a wonderful thing full of all sorts of opportunities and experiences but you will run across people who have given up on life they don't care about their surroundings about theirselves nothing they just go day-to-day not giving a damn about nothing and that ruins it for everybody whether they choose van life or not or they end up homeless it's a sad world we live in

Many families are also HOMELESS IN AMERICA 🇺🇸 YES it's very sad 😭

@rainsofhealing

Жыл бұрын

Yes we are having a major epidemic of homelessness for a variety of reasons and most people have no clue how bad it actually is. It’s really serious. It’s not all drug-related as many think, but inability to acquire affordable housing. Also inflation and extreme rising rental prices have a huge impact on it as well. Much like getting sick with serious illnesses, some think homelessness won’t happen to them, or if they just “work hard enough” and DO enough, it won’t happen. Sadly, not in this economy and not in the times we live in.

It’s so sad. Peoples lack of respect and common decency are ruining things for themselves and everyone. A few rotten eggs spoils the whole bunch as they say. It’s actually very frustrating and even angering. Edit: spelling

Be respectful and considerate of your surroundings and others. Excellent public service announcement, Emi.

I agree with you 100%. You don't necessarily need to be stealth, but you DO need to be cool. I always eat, do my chores, that stuff, somewhere else, and don't pull into my overnight spot until 9 or 10pm, or after dark. I'm out by 8am, even if I pull into a different parking lot and go back to bed😆 Once I pull in, however, it's lights out, and you don't see me up front until I'm fully dressed and slip into the drivers seat to start the van. Another rule for being inconspicuous is that I NEVER even step out of the van. I pull out with my garbage and dump it in an appropriate place, always bagged. Trash, all-day "squatting," or spread-out belongings, like chairs and bicycles, just isn't cool. I can see why Wal-Mart and governments make these rules, which then ruin it for others. I think you offer some good advice.

Emi, nice job! You are a woman of few words, and I mean that in a good way! What you said is from the heart and very well spoken! Pay attention everyone! We need to look out for one another! Be kind! I'm sure you can tell a van lifer by choice and a van lifer by necessity! Be aware and care!

I was at a Walmart this summer in Northern Maine. The vanlifers and campers were very respectful. The problem at that one was kids coming in the middle of the night to the undeveloped lot next to us and partying and loud music in speakers until sunrise! I never went back and instead found places that were public parking for the apartments above stores in the town center. We have to be very clever to protect us and others.

With that many spending the night someone will mess it up for all. Here in USA very few Walmart’s allow overnight sleeping anymore.

I was at a Walmart where someone emptied there Black Water Tank in the Parking Lot and they had to call a Hazmat Team to come clean it up, that ended people being able to stay there overnight.

@Shemsa08

Жыл бұрын

Wow that’s insane

@annawofford559

Жыл бұрын

that's nasty and lazy

There are always the people who leave trash and overstay….. and they don’t give a shiiiiii about anyone or anything. Sad but true.

I live in Denver Colorado and the Wal-Marts are slowly closing to overnights parking. We are guests. Some people forget that.

@Bernz66

Жыл бұрын

Just remember that those parking lots are private property….. I think it’s the few inconsiderate people who are ruining it for the majority of considerate people….

Looking for Jeffie and his regular PSA: "People!!! Pick your sheeeet up!!"

People who own their own homes can’t even camp in their own campers in their own yards... we are all loosing our rights.... and the people who are struggling really pay heavily.. Thank you for your compassion.. we all need to consider the result of our actions.

Your always welcomed to stay on my land in North Georgia USA for Free. We're free people in the Southeastern United States. Safe travels and I enjoy your videos Cat lady...✌🇺🇸

You are so right. The 2 Walmarts in Flagstaff, AZ, no longer allow overnight parking due to abuse. I was at a Walmart on Page, AZ in May of this year, and there were over 50 RV’s! Crazy.

It astounds me the number of people who leave trash behind. I was staying at a paid campground this summer that has an explicit rule about cleaning up your campsite when you leave, but when I arrived at my designated spot the empty spot next to me had a bunch of garbage (potato chip bags, pop cans, etc) just scattered around. First thing I did before even setting up my camper was to clean up their mess so I didn't have to look at it. I didn't mention it to the management - I hate to be a "Karen" - but in retrospect I'm thinking maybe I should have so they would be charged a cleanup fee (which they accepted could happen per the agreement they signed) and hopefully be discouraged from ever doing it again.

I believe that’s why they shut down Spanish Banks overnight parking lots in Vancouver BC, too many vans and other rigs all the time and the locals complained,...very sad that option was shut down.

Glad I bought cheap land when I could. I can park in the mountains.

They are going to spoil it for other people in rv’s

Emmie, thank you for this video. You shared a lot of information about van life parking... And how this could be the last resort for some (a lot of) people. Be careful, and again , thank gou!🙏❤

Great video emi

No Emi glad you post this. This needs to be said. Be respectful to the person who doesn't have the means to get a ticket. When you go leave your spot cleaner than you found it.

I totally understand what you are saying...those lacking respect (regardless of their economic status) are going to ruin it for everyone 😔 Thanks for your respectful message 💜

I love the raining drop it’s so nice to sleep in raindrops.😊 you’re right they should clean up after them self!

You are so right Emi people just dont have respect. When we park at Walmart we dont park in the back part of the parking lot we usually park in the front or middle under a light. The light doesnt bother us because our windows are blacked out and we have a blackout curtain behind our front seats. So far in 4 years we only had one knock and that was to tell us that a bad storm was coming so to be safe. We love our life and its sad that some people try and ruin it for others.

Advertise a good overnight location on KZread. Word gets around. Not all follow the unwritten rule of move out early.(go elsewhere for the day) Remember, it's a privilege, not a right. There are tons of places not far out of Squamish to park for the day.(or night)

I can't see why people who are genuinely needing a place to park for the night so they can sleep are put in with the few who leave trash around. Everyone needs a place to sleep, shelter is a basic human need and I really can't see why all carparks can't be used for cars & vans for the night. Stay safe, sleep tight ❤

Thank you for sharing this video! It’s already become such a problem here in the USA that most Walmarts here don’t even allow overnight parking anymore. I actually slept at some of the Loves Travel Centers recently. And even with those, they fill up fast if you don’t arrive and settle in quite early.

@bonniegreatorex72

Жыл бұрын

I don't know if you've already tried this but someone recommended hospitals because nobody's going to hassle anybody in a parking lot they think you're visiting someone.

@jeanineacree6355

Жыл бұрын

Stores like Cracker Barrell, Bass Pro, Truck stops, rest areas. Sportsman wearhouse stores also let people stay overnight.

@ChristineExplores

Жыл бұрын

@@bonniegreatorex72 oh that’s a great idea too! I think I do recall someone mentioning hospitals before too! 🤔

@ChristineExplores

Жыл бұрын

@@jeanineacree6355 Great ideas! 👍👍👍 Although I might be more skeptical at rest areas. 🤔

@thefragranceapothecary7281

Жыл бұрын

@@bonniegreatorex72 I work at two hospitals, the lots are heavily monitored by security and cameras everywhere. They don’t allow camping. Parking, yes. But you can’t be in the vehicle.

You are so kind. If all van lifers and RVers were as conscientious as you are, there would never be an issue with them. Thank you. I hope people listen and act right. But I’m not so sure they care enough to heed the warning.

My beautiful friend I apologize I have been sick good to see you again

Its awesome how compassionate and caring you are about others, the world needs more people who care. Thank you.

Great advice, Emi stay safe.

This is a problem worldwide now. The UK is particularly hostile to "overnight" wild camping. So too is Spain. In the US, it varies. The WalMart closest to us used to allow overnight stays, until people started spreading out, cooking, and illegally dumping their waste. The final straw came when "fights" broke out, between the van lifers, in the parking lot. The individual WalMarts and the store managers have the final say, on whether to allow overnight stays. Many communities view this as a homeless problem, not a life style choice. In part, You Tubers have popularized the lifestyle and increased the numbers of people living in their vans. The apps also played a part. In the UK, some of the Councils have gone onto Park4Night and tell the users that overnight parking is not allowed on some of the listings. I wish that communities worldwide would address the problem in the same way that France has with their Aire de Service.

@rodriguesfa271

Жыл бұрын

I love uk! Im from Portugal. Portugal its very difficult to overnight. Vanlife is a nightmare in some contries.

I’m also worried that being in a vehicle overnight is going to become an issue in so many areas. I have a house where I live when I’m not in my van traveling. There is a small parking lot near my house that is listed on iOverlander. It is in a very residential area on the lake. Every morning now I see more and more campers and vans parked there. So far the police have left it alone but the campers are becoming more disrespectful and leaving garbage or staying in place for 24 hours or more. Every day I look to see if there have been “no overnight parking” signs posted. Eventually it will be restricted. It’s very sad because most people are respectful but there are a few that inevitably blow it for everyone. 😢

Exactly how walmart in Chilliwack closed down for overnighters. Ppl stayed all day and night setting up BBQs then thier garbage. This is the problem for us who just stay the night and leave for the day. Most of us just need a safe place to sleep. Thank you for sharing Emmi! I sure hope those who leave garbage see this video and wake up. :(

I camp in my truck all over the west, to save on hotels while working. I pull up to rest areas , in mountains, in the desert, don’t matter trash everywhere. I keep garbage bags with me to fill up when I have time and energy. It’s horrible , our country is so beautiful let’s cherish it

You have such a beautiful heart, Emi. You are correct. A few bad ones ruin it for everyone. I don't know about now but we took oride in bring a trucker friendly, overnight sleeper friendly store. When I came to work at 10pm and saw more than 5 semittucks in the lot, I knew we were expecting nasty enough weather that they were hoing to close roads.

Love how Kelly wants attention she is spoiled she deserves it and she looking better. Stay safe and stay warm both of you! 🔥🚐🐱

That's the problem now. No respect of others. It's terrible. I am sad too. Many people just don't care. Thank you for making awareness of this problem.

I live in Lancaster California and the desert and dirt roads have lots of vans, cars and motor homes plus tiny tents

Emi, you are correct. If one can’t respect others, the area and environment, they need to become the ones that feel ashamed. Your care for those that are homeless speaks volumes to your kindness and generosity. Your channel becomes their voice. They need to be able to find a cost effective alternative to live and no one should ruin it for them. At times, individuals must think beyond themselves and do what is best for humanity. Leave an area better than when you came to it. Remain as stealth as possible. The list goes on. We need to keep all places open to us. Good job Emi!♥️

That’s what happened to the Sam’s Club near my house. People do that and they abuse it, leaving trash and even some needles on the ground. Then someone attacked the security guard for reminding them that they need to move.

So nice to see Kelly feeling fine,

Your heart is so big Emi. ❤️ thank you for sharing that info. Much love from Iowa in the states. Hugs to Kelly! 🦋❤️🦋

Great video Emi my friend I really hope they don't stop you sleeping / parking there xx

Glad you decided to post! Great advice!

That is a lovely and thoughtful sentiment you put forth there. You're a wonderful person.

Lovely cat lady with her respect and righteousness 😍 Emi is the best van lady Heart ♥️

It is unfortunate that WM have to do this but understandable. We must clean our areas, better than we left it. One bad apple ruins it for the others. If one can't afford the gas to move, donate a couple dollars of gas, so they can get somewhere else they can drive to and stay for a while longer. Good video to remind us!

You said what you have to say. You say it well. Glad you represent us all. Thank you for speaking out🥰

This is a very kind and compassionate point of view, to look out for those who may not have a choice. I’m so grateful to you for posting it. ✌️❤️🐈

Emi, thank you for this video, for sharing this information and for your compassion ❤.

RV parking is eventually going to be banned everywhere because more people are choosing to live in vehicles due to rent being unaffordable.

@GM-jv9jz

Жыл бұрын

Most people are not ' choosing' They dont have any other choice.

Thank you for the important update.

Thanks Emi! With your experience, you know what can help Van Lifers. I hope this helps!

I'm glad you posted this! Everyone needs to be reminded that a few can ruin it for the many! Yes....be respectful!

Emi --- what you shared is so important, so I am glad you shared it. I have a heart for those who have arrived at the "last resort" and the homeless. My husband and I aren't van lifers, but we live in Florida and it is very transient here. So many who are homeless come here because of the warmer climate; however, they forget how hot it can get here. We try our best to help them. We keep water in our car and snacks to hand out when we see them at stoplights asking for money and help. We also plug into some of the rescue missions here that really pour into them. Thank you for sharing your heart on this matter. Give Kelly as a kiss!

Excellent video and point. Thanks for this logical perspective Emi.

This is so true of many many areas. We, at times, are our own worst enemy. Be respectful, be kind, be thoughtful of others and clean up after yourselves. Great post…thank you.

I work at Walmart in Homestead, Florida. A few years ago, a couple from Oregon(or Washington State)pulled in and parked. It was late that night. The driver explained to me that he and his s/o were on their way to Key West. They were tired and needed to rest. They were a few hours away from their goal. I directed him to a spot where he can park and advised him that he had to leave later on the next morning. Right now, I see at least one or two vans or motor homes in the parking lot. Security directs these folks. The parking lot is changing because of the construction of a new gas station on the premises(also under Walmart).

Totally agree with what is being shared. Here in U.S.A. many boondocking places. Mostly in mid- west but people trash the areas. Pretty soon privileges will be taken away. They want to enjoy nature but don't respect it. Golden Rule: Always leave the area better than when you arrived! Do a good deed everyday. 👏✔️😊👍💙😺😻

Thank you for making this informative video. Hope people heed your warning. There's really no excuse for disrespect someone else's property.

No excuse for throwing trash anywhere ! Living here in a tiny house complex where we have two big dumpsters to put our trash in. Some people throw trash on the ground around these dumpsters !! 😡. No excuse for this. Thanks for reminding people Emi

@annawofford559

Жыл бұрын

lazy not brought up to respect anything

It is sad. I wonder if these thoughtless people who do not live full time, nomadic lifestyle would appreciate it if people came to their home area and dumped trash in their home area? I also wonder if some nomadic lifers have to live that way because they ARE disrespectful and can not get leases anymore for that reason, and they are not nomadic because they appreciate that lifestyle, so they do not care about ruining it for others. Prayers for you! Excellent video. Thank you.

Thanks for talking about this. Your experience gives your opinions credibility.

You’re so sweet and thoughtful, Emi, and what you say is true. People must work and live as a responsible community or else freedom and opportunity will be taken away.

I'm so glad you posted this. It helps us to plan and know what we are up against. I wish there were more public places that were safe for us to park, especially since more people are doing this or having to do this now.

I love seeing u n kitty!

Safe travel and blessings to you and sweet Kelly! 😀

There are a lot of disrespectful people. I used to go to this nice place by a park over night. It was clean with only one or two rigs. Next month i go there and there were about 30 rigs, trash everywhere, and pallets in the middle of the street as a bonfire. Didn't want to be anywhere near that ridiculousness.

Well said. As always.

Sad it's gotten bad with so many living in vehicles economy is very bad. But the majority of walmarts don't allow over nights because ppl were making homeless camps in the parking lots. I even got run off from parking at the hospital.

Totally agree. Chilliwack Walmart closed over night camping because of this. Trailers sprawled out and camping over summer. Sad people feel entitled and take advantage of situation. Thanks for sharing emi.

Great information Emi so useful! Love Kelly she looks so happy! Blessings & stay safe😇.

I ha done this before. I ‘d drive to a motel or a hotel parking lot at night, tip the night desk clerk $20 to park and sleep. I could use the lobby toilet in the morning, too.

This is such a complex issue. Thanks for all your insight!

Yes Emi... keep saying it! Hopefully others will agree & listen to the intent of your message. It's an important one and it's right, please fellow nomads, do the right thing.🙏

A very thoughtful and kind perspective you have 👍

You are a precious soul.

Putting the truly poor at risk is a possibility. We must be conscious of gathering, to behave very well because if they kick us all out, the truly needy will not recover. Thank you for this caution. We are our sisters keeper.

Great video

Thanks for posting this. I traveled through Canada and Alaska recently, and stopped at a lot of Walmarts. I saw this going on there, although I didn’t sleep there. But, it’s good to know for the future. I live in Florida, but I was driving through Squamish a couple of months ago! I thought it looked like a pretty great place. You’ve convinced me of that.

Important video for people to see. Love Kelly kisses ❤

You are so polite. Love ur channel

Homelessness is exploding across North America, it's going to get worse before it gets better .stay safe Emi