Homeless and Jobless Settling Into RV Parks

The latest news on the RV front is the number of jobless and homeless families that are moving into RVs to save money. They can buy a used travel trailer for minimum investment and have a roof over their heads, then stay in a nice RV park with amenities for much less than it would cost to rent or buy an apartment or home—even one in a distressed neighborhood.

Most of these families don’t use their trailers for travel; instead they leave them permanently parked on a site. However, one has to wonder if more and more of them will hit the open road in search of jobs, or head south for a more habitable place to spend the winter? This won’t be a new phenomenon since for decades, construction workers have found RVs a convenient way to live and travel, and many have taken their families along. This year, though, there are many more families trying to survive in RVs, and it remains to be seen whether the economy will turn around before they become desperate enough to head out on the highway in search of a job.

As many snowbirds head south to warmer climates this fall, they may find that there are few or no vacancies. Reservations may be required to return to your favorite winter park. However, since many snowbird parks are restricted to 55 and older, those commercial parks will probably remain available to snowbirds. Still, membership parks such as Thousand Trails and numerous others may find their sites filled with families desperate for a place to spend the winter economically. And many of the homeless may discover BLM Land camping, which is virtually free. Either way, the impact will certainly be felt by many RVers. If you are planning to travel this winter, phone ahead so that you don't end up without a place to call home for the season.

Free Camping in Alaska

Planning to take your RV to Alaska next summer? The Anchorage School District provides free parking for self-contained RVs at school grounds and city parks during the summer through a Camper Host Program. They believe that with RVs present on the premises, vandalism can be prevented. You’ll have to give a 30-day commitment if you want to participate. 30/50 amp service is provided at most schools, plus water and sewer service once a week, which is free. For more information, contact Melody Haakenson at 947-742-7800 or email haakenson_melody@asdk12.org.