What are some of the first things to do after moving into a van

[Iggy]

I read on other forums how some people do gas-jugging (begging for gas money) everywhere they go. They are professional beggars. It makes me not want to help out anyone because there is no way to know if they really need help. Besides I live on $500 a month which doesn't allow a lot of donating.
I have an emergency fund for vehicle repairs and toilet paper.

 

[HarmonicaBruce]

I read on other forums how some people do gas-jugging (begging for gas money) everywhere they go. They are professional beggars.

What other forums, if you don't mind me asking?

 

[Iggy]

Squat the Planet (often), reddit (occasionally), and a couple private ones on Facebook.

 

[flying kurbmaster]

I suggest you move into your van in the summer if you don't live in a temperate climate, if that is possible, fill your pantry with nice food, find a safe place to park up, for the first little bit, this could be a friends yard, nice wilderness campspot or in a familiar area possibly with access to friends. Keep in touch with your world slowly ease into it. Don't change too many other things at first. Good luck

 

[Bobcat]

I like the idea of staying local and working a full-time job. I'll be living in the van, getting a feel for the lifestyle, but have friends and family just around the corner all while making a good income. Thanks, Spirituallifetime!

 

[VanLifeCrisis]

thats what i do, just beware getting sucked in...before you know it you been there years stewing. if you stay in one spot, expect that everyone local including the cops will know you live in your van. try to be the nice harmless guy who works but is down on his luck, rather than the aloof creepy guy who slinks around the parking lots, if you get my meaning?

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around here, people really understand the 'away from home worker' if your job falls into any job that typically someone might work away from home(usually any labor trade), you are golden. "i live over THERE, but while working i do this HERE during the week while working. saves on motels and gas."

 

[masterplumber]

Regarding giving while out on the street... I have a simple rule. I never give cash, as I don't want to enable someone's harmful habit, and I don't want to resent someone who is a professional beggar. I will however give what I have or go buy anyone food. I figure even drunks and drug addicts need to eat so they can hopefully live long enough to overcome their addictions. And as for everyone else - it's just plain old hospitable. This way my conscious is clear as I never have to worry that I didn't help someone who is really in need because I'd been burned in the past by helping someone who just wanted to take advantage.