The truth about van life is that it is hard. It's a challenge to anybody involved. Here are a few things that I've learned since I started on this journey. 

Lesson 1: Walmart will be your primary stop if you wish to save money on accommodations. With a van, it's easy to park and just go right to sleep. you can do it with an rv to but of course it's a bigger rig to have to maneuver. Luckily they have big lots so it's not too much of an issue to get around. Walmart is also safer than most locations I've stayed at due to the brightness of the lights and the fact that you are constantly surrounded by people. You just have to make sure you don't make it obvious you are "camping" or you could get kicked out. 

Lesson2: Always have water. This ties into Lesson 1. I have approximately 15 gallons of water throughout the van. This doesn't include whatever is in the cooler. All this water is helpful for not only my survival but also Lylahs. If you run out of water or if you can't find somewhere to fill up water containers due to the WINTER time closing those options Walmart has an area you can fill that container. It is .30 a gallon but at least there is a backup if you can find somewhere with that resource. 

Lesson 3: Back in the day Planet Fitness used to be a terrible option for showers. I remember them charging $20 just to go in to use equipment or to shower (or both if you needed it) and that was looney of them. They used to be highly recommended by anybody that I saw online that did this lifestyle. Now I can say that they are on my radar as well. I went into a planet fitness to work out and they only charge $5 for a shower and to work out which is wonderful since I did need to do both. So if there is one in the area I would recommend them for a shower/workout session If needed. 

Lesson 4: Be aware. This can be used in many ways. to me, it doesn't matter about gender all that matters is if you are aware of your surroundings and listen to your gut. Even with Lylah, I am always aware of where I am and who I am around. If I pass someone on a trail I always look back to make sure I'm not being followed and keep lylah near me as they pass. It seems weird to check behind you but you never know what people are capable of and if it comes to you or them I would hope you would choose yourself. 

These lessons have been something I've been thinking about and keeping in mind as I go on this journey. There's so much more to come but those I feel are some good ones to pass along. 

Stay safe and thanks for following us on this journey as well as supporting us.