Everything is not always what it seems
If camping outdoors is what you have decided on as a way to sleep, please understand this is also a way of life. There are pros, cons, and rules you must follow to survive. The first rule is “Don’t do what you see other homeless people do“. At first glance, you see a lot of homeless people camping on the sidewalks. Don’t do that. For one, you shouldn’t just crash in someone’s camp without asking, no matter where it is. Easy way to get hurt. Secondly, most encampments that crash so close to society are usually dangerous. Unless you’re into the drug scene, you should just stay away. Find somewhere that’s discreet and away from everyone. Most of your problems being homeless are going to come from other homeless people. It’s best to carve out your own territory away from others. A lot of encampments have heavy drug use. You may not have a problem with other’s drug use, but you will have a problem with tweakers. Addicts and non-users do not mix.
Finding Your Camp Spot
Finding a good camping spot takes a little trial and error, but you’ll figure it out by using a lot of common sense. Try to find somewhere that’s out of site and out of mind. The fewer people see you the better. When you do settle on a camp, make sure your camp is always clean. The number one reason camps get swept is because of unsanitary conditions. No garbage should be around. No urinating, or defecating. It should not smell like it either. You may not be able to smell it in the air because you’re used to it. But others can. Use a piss bottle for your number ones, and a plastic bag for your deuces. Pack it up when you leave, and place it in a dumpster. Cleanliness and discretion will allow you to keep a camp for longer periods of time.
Try to stick to the rule of only leaving your camp once a day at most. Out of sight, out of mind remember. If people don’t see you, they’re not thinking about you. How are you going to eat? If you have to go to food lines and shelters to eat, go to the feeds that serve one a week. They usually have food that you can take with you at the end of the feed. If you’re cooking you’re own food, have as many things delivered to you as possible. You can use delivery apps for groceries and supplies. Use a business when it’s closed to get your deliveries. Use Amazon Lockers for as many things as possible. Their lockers are usually closer to you than a trip to Walmart or a grocery store. The more time you spend away from your camp, the more you leave yourself open to theft. How are you going to get water? You’re going to use a lot of water. A gallon a day on hot summer days. Always have a minimum three-day supply of food and water at camp. A seven-day supply would be best.
Your Basic Needs
You need four basic pieces of camping gear all year round if you’re going to be camping outside. You’ll need a backpack, sleeping bag, tent. and and sleeping pad. If you are not in a stationary camp, every piece of your basic gear should fit in your pack in case you have to move. Depending on what part of the country you’re camping in, your Summer and Fall gear will be your lightest load. Winter and Spring will be your heaviest. The next four parts of this post will explain each piece of gear mentioned, and why they are so important.
