WALMART IS OVER for RVers! Safety & Availability are DISAPPEARING. 

I am a fairly new car camper. I usually just need to stay a night on the way to visit my son in Florida. I have stayed in four different rest areas in four different states. They all had safe lighting and 24-hour restrooms. A couple of them had security on duty. There is noise but not mayhem. I have been very pleased so far.

Several years ago was the last time I stopped at a Wal-Mart. My dog woke me up in the middle of the night, someone was trying to open my outside hatches. Big shock, I had already swapped out all the locks for Abus, there was no way they were getting in. I highly recommend swapping out the standard locks everyone has a key to for a quality lock. Abus and Medeco would be my top picks. Doc

It’s amazing anyone leaves their house with all the danger driven fear being put out there. My 4 daughters and I traveled 3 years full time in an RV and never had an issue. I’m a single mom and have been traveling all over by myself and with my kids for 2 decades and have no plans of stopping. I also save the rest stops for our semis.

From a truck driver, thank you. It is so hard to work 14 hours a day and trying to get enough sleep. It's so hard at night to get parking. Even if there's several spots open there's 20 warehouses down the road kicking drivers out after they unload. them. Your so tired, and know your clocks about out and you can legally be in trouble, then you have to back in the tinniest spot with the biggest truck. It's difficult. They don't give us any breaks.

Our Walmart allowed you to stay for one night at a time . Now you can leave and come back . Our Walmart is Rural and is safe .

Give Walmart a break! They've been very generous about parking for ages and if the could wave a magic wand to get rid of all the problems, they would. They don't want the skells and felons either.

I stayed at a Walmart for two weeks once. I burned out the transmission in my truck and it took some time to get it repaired. The Walmart employee told me to be quiet and I would have no problems. It was great.

tune in next week for another harvest hosts commercial

FYI, Harvest Host and its affiliates require that guests travel in self-contained RVs. Types of RVs include motorhomes, campervans, travel trailers, fifth-wheel trailers, popup campers and truck campers, so long as they are self-contained. However, NO tents, minivans, cars, or pick-up trucks will be allowed to join as guests. Important: All camping vehicles must be fully self-contained. Your RV must have an interior toilet and built-in holding tanks or bladders for waste water. Porta-potties that remain inside the vehicle at all times are acceptable, but must be dumped off-site at an appropriate facility. The dumping of gray water on Host properties is prohibited. So, even if you are self-contained in your minivan or car, you are not allowed to participate.

I don’t even want to shop at Walmart in the daytime 😂

Thank you for saying to not take truck parking spots in truck stops. As a trucker, it is hard enough to find parking. We operate under federal laws that dictate how long we can drive, so when we look for parking, it is NOT an option. It is very annoying at best to see an RV in a spot I or another truck driver need. RVs have SO MANY OTHER OPTIONS for parking. Do not take the few spaces trucks have. Honestly, I wish you had not mentioned Trucker Path.

FYI IF YOU ARE GONNA TRAVEL IN MN: Walmart... there aren't any Walmarts that allow you to park overnight... mostly bcz of locals ordinances. Managers have said, "OK with us, but you take the risk with law enforcement." Also, there is only 1 Cracker Barrel in the state, below Mpls, and they still allow overnights. Rely on rest areas in this state.

I read Sam Walton's (founder of Walmart) autobiography years ago, and he talked about how after they first started Walmart, they used to ride around in his RV scouting out spots for new Walmart stores. They would often get kicked out of empty parking lots when they stopped for the night and it made him really mad. So that is the source of the original policy allowing RVs overnight at Walmart. Of course, as you mentioned, new local ordinances that put a crimp on that more recently.

I was disappointed to learn our closest Walmart has posted a sign saying “No overnight parking”. I don’t blame them because I know there is heavy drug activity nearby, and violence often breaks out. It is safer to not stay there.

I have looked into Harvest Hosts, but have decided against it. As someone else mentioned, the vehicle has to be self contained and have some sort of holding tanks. I'm planning on being in likely a Class C, so that's not an issue. For me, paying for the membership, then expected to spend a minimum of $30 to stay. I have heard stories of places giving bad reviews for campers because they didn't spend enough. Well, if it's a place that doesn't have things to purchase that I would use, I wouldn't spend $30 there. I don't drink, so wineries are out, and I'm mobility impaired, so some museums or similar places aren't always handicap accessible. By the time you figure in time, costs, and extra travel, it would be no different than staying in (some) RV parks, and at least there you can have hook-ups. The more I hear about Harvest Hosts from people who aren't sponsored by them, the worse it sounds. Same with Thousand Trails.

I think a lot of people ended up at Walmart because it didn't cost anything for an easy, quick overnight. Most of the alternatives mentioned must be paid yearly🤷‍♀️. I’ve subscribed and loved your channel for years. I understand that you have to pay the bills but the many Harvest Host plugs are a little much.

Robin, you are one amazing woman. From day one that I began watching your channel, you have provided top notched information for the traveling community. And, you are very trustworthy. I appreciate you and hope you have a wonderful, restful, fun, holiday season!! ♥️🙏🏼♥️

Lived in the cab of my Ford Ranger for 2 years, in a WalMart parking lot in Alabama. They hired local law enforcement to stay on site most nights. The one or two homeless junkies that would stop by my truck to visit, would always ask permission, and thank me for speaking with them, rather than ignoring them. With local state park campgrounds charging $30+ per night, it always amazed me that people in nice RVs would stay for 1 or more nights, then drive away, leaving bags of trash where they had parked, in a lot with 8 or 10 trash cans they could have used.

Cracker Barrel is our favorite place to stay. We traveled round trip Gila Bend to Raleigh, NC and back. We spent a total of $2.50! That was our fee at a National Forest. Pretty proud of that! We were traveling in a Casita. We made No reservation…and didn’t have to buy into any apps or memberships. If we can do it so can you!

I'm confused. The substitutes for Walmart are all paid subscriptions. Hundreds of dollars is no substitute for free.

People... Truckstops are VERY VALUABLE for trucks!!! There is NOT enough parking for the number of trucks, today. DON'T PARK RV's IN TRUCKSTOPS!!

Im not a fan of HH because 1) it's a paid service even if you dont pay the direct business so not interested in always having to take the time to shop or patronize the business on a quick overnight stop. And 2) most HH are not convenient to our travels. BW also not interested mainly due to locations and safety - Truck stops are out for us but state rest stops are for all travelers. If it doesn't say JUST TRUCKERS, there are RV designated spots at most. No guilt here but those are rare circumstances for us. We plan trips with stops and destinations in mind. Boondocking is great with a group.

You can’t simply say all WalMart parking lots have these issues and are dangerous. You just have to use common sense and be ware of where you are. Walmart in Yuma foothills is not like a Walmart in LA or Chicago.

This video sounds like a giant commercial.

Love Truck Stops are building RV parks next to their truck stops

CASINOS! Most have security and are welcoming. Plus a reasonable priced breakfast!

Guys, I want to add, I'm going Blind & I really need your help to get my land ready for Nomads!! I'll take the car campers, minivans & homemade truck campers, but I need to build a solid waste composting station in the back of my property!! I can haul water from Prescott AZ & my land is near the Prescott National Forest, so it's a perfect place in Central Arizona to camp for those who have no other place to stay!! HELP PLEASE!! PLEASE STOP WITH THE 👍 THUMBS-UP's, I really do need HELP, NOT WISHFUL THINKERS!!!

Love the hair style. 😊

I just read of a Harvest Host site (South Carolina) that was at a Drive-In. Required $15 for a double feature movie🤗.

I used to watch many RV and van-living YT channels...since about 2 years ago, I only watch Robyn (besides CheapRVliving, of course)...and this is why. Valuable information and she's the nicest person. Doesn't matter but she also has tried on several different hair styles/cuts...she looks gorgeous in the current one, IMHO. Thanks, Robyn!

We love Harvest Host and Boondockers Welcome but Robin...you need to explore the Vanlife. Our 19 foot self contained van can pretty much park anywhere. No RV markings. Makes travel so easy.

One long commercial

Could you make a video about safety precautions for camper trailers. Such as do you use a wheel lock on the camper when parked overnight or when you leave camp in the day?

I was at a walmart and woke up to blue flashing lights... cops were making an arrest right outside my window! Dinner AND a show! I love walmart, i feel safe, it's free, and everything I want to shop for is right there. The nearby rest area is sketchy and I wouldn't stay there.

Well I looked it up and got my answer: PROHIBITED: Tents, such as ground tents or car rooftop tents; sleeping in cars, trucks, or minivans; overlanding in jeeps, bikes, or atvs. SO I will NOT be joining, bummer.

Hola from Guaymas Mexico, Byrdie. I appreciate your resources and the time you invest researching great alternatives and options to enjoy RV nomading to the fullest. I particularly like your wrap-up summary and graphic. On my 'home' to my Mexican house I enjoyed Harvest Hosts with fabulous success. The hosts were all accommodating and welcoming. As a golfer I appreciate the add-on for golfers. Happy Sunday. ⛳

Recently stayed at a Lowes. Called ahead and they approved. We had a sketchy Walmart night earlier this year, couple loud young kids parked 3 feet from our truck.

All really good suggestions and information, with your usual thoroughness! Best wishes.🙋🏻‍♀️

It's a win win when discreet RV'ers stay overnight at WalMart all the way in the back where there are very few vehicles parked. But don't take up more than one spot unless your vehicle does not fit in standard parking space. Also, don't leave any trace when you leave. Lastly, give some business for WalMart so that it makes everyone happy. But, there are few that always spoils it for everyone. WalMart is very gracious to allow overnight stay for travelers. Please reciprocate that favor.

Thanks Robin. I'm taking notes! It's going to be a while before we can get back on the road, but we'll be more prepared thanks to this information you've shared.

Glad to see your back

Thank you! I’m over Walmart also and Cracker Barrel in some states are becoming the same. HH is great. And Letchworth is beautiful also with Watkins Glen. Thanks for posting Solo Streaming Sister!!

It was fun getting to meet you at Walt’s RV Park back in August. I enjoy watching your informative videos! Keep up the good work!

Happy Sunday, Robin! Thanks for the video.

After a trip to Long Island in August……I sold my campervan 83 yr old but still enjoy watching your videos…..

My daughter went from Delaware , across the top of the country, to Port Townsend Washington last October, and stayed at some of the most amazing Harvest Host location's. The most memorable was a horse farm in Montana. The owner brought her up to the ranch house and cooked up a big Cowboy steak dinner. Lavender and Alpaca farms. Winery and brew pub's. She hangs out with the KIFT group on the West Coast. Thank you for explaining this to newbies!

Thank you, Robin for this helpful and informative video. I don’t know if there are Cracker Barrel Restaurants where you travel, but they are awesome! Nearly all of them have special areas in the back for overnight RVers. They are my number 1 option in Addition to some of the ones you mention. Happy travels!

The problem with harvest host is they are extremely limited towards full size RVs.

Wal Mart lots are for full time residence living; there are people that have lived there for years. You can buy drugs and sex, and steal food and booze without leaving. Panhandling shoppers provides income for recreation. Residents don't like 'overnighters' TIP: Always park upwind of full time residents. They are easily identified because they often don't have wheels, tires or axles. Sometimes they don't have doors or windows either. After a year or three the odor [no sanitation, water, or power] is quite pungent and the swarms of bottleneck flies can be annoying. So to quote Sam Walton "Come for a night, stay for a life." It's THE way to live in South Florida, especially if you are broke and wasted and can't afford to pay $2500/mo for rent. A Miami Native--71 years.

This lady is a good salesman for Harvest Host . She must be making a ton of money bashing Walmart and selling Harvest Host . 😮

Yay! Congratulations on reaching 300k any time now!

Oh Robin, I’m so sorry to hear about The Boy! Im so sorry for your loss. You gave him a wonderful life traveling with you. I’ll miss seeing him in your videos. ❤

Thank you!! Great information every time.

How did you get the trucker path app. When I opened the app I needed to be a trucker and put in my number to use it. Do you have to have a CDL

Oh no! I'm sorry to hear about Big Boy's passing! My condolences to you.

Great stuff!!! This will help SO much on my next trip in March.

Trucker Path came with me from my trucking days. Probably why it's my first choice when I have to get somewhere via interstates. When I'm wondering it's more stealth mode stuff in my van. I often use your tip about those streets between apartments and light industrial/office sites.

I saw someone trying to "camp" at a local Target store in a shabby looking RV. Needless to say, they weren't there long. That Target is next to the highway exits where panhandlers stand all day. Not all of them are truly homeless, they just make more there than having a job.

Never heard of Trucker Path...you always have something new. Thanks so much.

Robyn thank you so much for all you do! I am soaking up as much as I can. I so am looking forward to my freedom days. I hope to be on the road in just over a year.

The one issue I’ve had with Harvest Hosts is that I simply can’t predict the timing of my arrival. Given most hosts no longer permit same day reservation, I’ve struggled to actually find hosts that will permit me to stay. I have really loved the host locations I’ve visited, but that was when more of them permitted same day reservations. Something I’ve noticed is that where there’s a Walmart, there’s almost always a CrackerBarrel, and for whatever reason, even if the Walmart wont permit overnights, the CB does. Hmmmm? I do still stay in some Walmarts, but truck stops are excellent for overnights, but I totally agree and consider that truckers get priority.

Thank you so much Robin. I was able to use your discount when signing up for Harvest Hosts. Much appreciated.💚

Walmart was just trying to be kind for just over night sleeping. But people ruin it with staying for a week, putting out their slides it is sad. Cause you can not stay over night in rest areas either anymore.

The incorporated areas in my county have ordinances prohibiting overnight camping at walmart. There was just too much crime and "permanent" campers in their parking lots. I don't shop at the walmart near me in the county because of this. It isn't the nomads, it's the tweakers like in your photos living there. 😢

Very informative!! You're looking great, Robin!

More and more dispersed opportunities are going away. Too many people and too much trash and human waste so land agencies are closing more and more areas. Most RV parks now will not accept vans or buses or anything without an RVIA tag meaning it was originally built as an RV. As more and more people go homeless either by choice or by eviction/foreclosure this will get worse.

Great tips! Thanks

Thanks for your videos. Unfortunately, I did not have a good experience after paying for Harvest Hosts and Boondockers. Yes! I have been traveling in the Western U.S. since March. The times I searched for HH, the overnight locations were way too far from my route, or in the opposite direction from where I was traveling. Also, some could not accommodate my truck and 5th wheel length. Sorry, but it didn't work for me, so it was a waste of money, and a huge disappointment!

Hi Robin! Another place is Cracker Barrels. Some of these do not include mini vans, cars or suvs. Happy and safe travels!

Your info is always helpful, Robin!!!!

Thanks! Some great information! And, all the apps sounded especially helpful. Thanks for all you do. ❤

Thank you for all the information in today’s video.

Excellent info.. Thank you!

Thank you! Shared with my traveling buds.😎🍷

You've become the Mike Lindell for Harvest Hosts.

Great info!! Thank you so much ✌️

Your hair style looks amazing. Love it.

I have never ever stayed in a Walmart and do not wish too. As you mentioned, there were a lot of broken down RVs and I have seen people defecating outside. I live on the central coast and they do not allow overnight in the parking lots here. Signs are posted. My favorite places are outside of nice hotels on the street side or on the street in front of rows and rows of nice condos.

Your research is awesome 👌

Your hair looks awesome

Been following since day one. ❤❤❤still love your videos 😊❤❤. Love the info. If its out there you have it and I know you will always share it. Happy Trails. 😊

Thank you for more information.. I so appreciate it! ❤

harves H is no go for car campers overnight, only people who can afford a big camper.

You always put out great videos…stay safe .🤗🐾🧸

Thank you Robin.

You slipped in a mention of Bass Pro Shops and Cabella's. Do they allow RV parking? I did not know that. Great video. I saved the link. I plan on retiring next year, buy a small RV and travel with my dog. I love your channel and found it just before I drive 8000 miles with my pup last month on a two week vacation. I decided traveling in a small sedan is not practical lol. Keep going! I love your enthusiasm and sunny outlook.

Very helpful thank you 👍🏽

Great resources and your hair looks really cute!

Great post! Thank you.

Great video good information thank you for sharing looking forward to seeing your next episode

Fabulous as usual! ☝️Great info

Thank you❤

Thanks for all theses resources! I agree about Walmart parking, I have recently stayed at a couple Roswell NM… it was fine. I also use Cracker Barrel sometimes too. Happy travels! 😃

Thanks, Robin. Great content.

Hey from Colorado! I travel part time/car camp mostly Boondocking. I have property/flower farm and going to check out possibly being a host. Thanks for all the information Robin!

Thanks for the great information

Im living this nightmare right now! I'm headed north on 65 from Kentucky into Indiana my phone kept alerting TOLL as I crossed into Indiana. I didnt see any toll both. I stopped at the first rest area, and spoke with the lady attendant who told me, your going to get the bill in the mail. And if you ignore it, your driver's license will be locked up till the toll is paid in full. This is crap, i didnt see any signage alerting to TOLL AHEAD. Now i have to baby sit my P.O. BOX. Its just the nerve of it all!!!!! Avoid SR 65 Indiana/Kentucky line area!!!! I remember that lady saying, they have your license plate!!! Im full-time in my class c. Arms crossed, tapping foot, waiting patiently !!!

Very valuable video! ❤❤❤❤😊

We used HH this fall. We stayed at 4 different HH and all the hosts were great. My husband loved it too and he is hard to please sometimes.

Love Letchworth! I first found them on instagram and made them a bucket list and this past April we were up in Albany NY helping our daughter build a fence at her home and finally made it to letchworth. Thank you for any the good info!