Comments on: Extreme Frugality: Living Out of Your Car http://www.consumerismcommentary.com/2007/02/27/extreme-frugality-living-out-of-your-car/ A premiere personal finance blog, established 2003. Within, Flexo discusses his own experiences with money, and he and other authors comment on a wide range of personal finance topics. Fri, 19 Mar 2010 20:18:49 +0000 http://wordpress.org/?v=2.9.1 hourly 1 By: artiehttp://www.consumerismcommentary.com/2007/02/27/extreme-frugality-living-out-of-your-car/#comment-204437 artie Fri, 05 Mar 2010 22:35:58 +0000 http://www.consumerismcommentary.com/2007/02/27/extreme-frugality-living-out-of-your-car/#comment-204437 please any info on camp sites in ( so. e. arizona ) needed= cost,= time stay= limits=what ever =thanks heaps= greatest site ive ever read about this subject so far=every one keep on= we dont have much freedom left == please any info on camp sites in ( so. e. arizona ) needed= cost,= time stay= limits=what ever =thanks heaps= greatest site ive ever read about this subject so far=every one keep on= we dont have much freedom left ==

]]> By: DAVEhttp://www.consumerismcommentary.com/2007/02/27/extreme-frugality-living-out-of-your-car/#comment-201115 DAVE Mon, 28 Dec 2009 22:41:26 +0000 http://www.consumerismcommentary.com/2007/02/27/extreme-frugality-living-out-of-your-car/#comment-201115 Can you provide more information on this? I am new to the subject. My personal blog http://www.iblogme.com/criminalrecords/ . Can you provide more information on this? I am new to the subject. My personal blog http://www.iblogme.com/criminalrecords/
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]]> By: Danhttp://www.consumerismcommentary.com/2007/02/27/extreme-frugality-living-out-of-your-car/#comment-200855 Dan Mon, 21 Dec 2009 01:37:41 +0000 http://www.consumerismcommentary.com/2007/02/27/extreme-frugality-living-out-of-your-car/#comment-200855 I've always found that parking in an apartment complex is a relatively safe place to park overnight, and I've never been hassled by anyone, police or otherwise.Many of the apartment complexes around this particular area are gated and have keypads at the entrance, which makes it an even more feasible place to stay overnight. You can either follow a car through the gate, or rush through an open exit gate after a car leaves.I've managed to find out the keycodes to ~200 gated communities around the Houston Area (talking to management during the day, speaking with people who live there, or are out by the pool, etc). I recorded them all, and I have them organized in my laptop.Being a smooth talker can help you find out stuff like that. Social engineering works wonders when it comes to surviving like we do. I’ve always found that parking in an apartment complex is a relatively safe place to park overnight, and I’ve never been hassled by anyone, police or otherwise.

Many of the apartment complexes around this particular area are gated and have keypads at the entrance, which makes it an even more feasible place to stay overnight. You can either follow a car through the gate, or rush through an open exit gate after a car leaves.

I’ve managed to find out the keycodes to ~200 gated communities around the Houston Area (talking to management during the day, speaking with people who live there, or are out by the pool, etc). I recorded them all, and I have them organized in my laptop.

Being a smooth talker can help you find out stuff like that. Social engineering works wonders when it comes to surviving like we do.

]]> By: Merchttp://www.consumerismcommentary.com/2007/02/27/extreme-frugality-living-out-of-your-car/#comment-200115 Merc Wed, 18 Nov 2009 02:37:23 +0000 http://www.consumerismcommentary.com/2007/02/27/extreme-frugality-living-out-of-your-car/#comment-200115 alicia, do not live in your car in the winter and especially in colorado. It Sucks! Also, be careful about leaving your bike on your car, it might get stolen.PS. I tried using a thermal survival blanket that somebody on this site suggested that I use, but condensation collects on it and makes everything wet and the cold still gets in. alicia, do not live in your car in the winter and especially in colorado. It Sucks! Also, be careful about leaving your bike on your car, it might get stolen.

PS. I tried using a thermal survival blanket that somebody on this site suggested that I use, but condensation collects on it and makes everything wet and the cold still gets in.

]]> By: aliciahttp://www.consumerismcommentary.com/2007/02/27/extreme-frugality-living-out-of-your-car/#comment-200106 alicia Tue, 17 Nov 2009 21:55:44 +0000 http://www.consumerismcommentary.com/2007/02/27/extreme-frugality-living-out-of-your-car/#comment-200106 I am a freshman at a community college and im so tired of florida.Im ready to move and travel around.follow the seasons lol.Im thinking of getting a van and paying off my insurancefor 6 months so I don't have that monthly bill to worry about.make my way to colorado and get a storage & po box. I plan on putting a bike rack on the back and using my bike as daily transport,when possible,to save on gas.my moms a single mom and almost 55.she wants to move to this old folks retirement place but they won't let her cuz I live with her.I don't want to keep her unhappy plus I loved colorado the winter I spent there...anyways im rambling..will my plan work?? Sound good to start off?? I am a freshman at a community college and im so tired of florida.Im ready to move and travel around.follow the seasons lol.Im thinking of getting a van and paying off my insurancefor 6 months so I don’t have that monthly bill to worry about.make my way to colorado and get a storage & po box. I plan on putting a bike rack on the back and using my bike as daily transport,when possible,to save on gas.my moms a single mom and almost 55.she wants to move to this old folks retirement place but they won’t let her cuz I live with her.I don’t want to keep her unhappy plus I loved colorado the winter I spent there…anyways im rambling..will my plan work?? Sound good to start off??

]]> By: james1987http://www.consumerismcommentary.com/2007/02/27/extreme-frugality-living-out-of-your-car/#comment-199781 james1987 Wed, 04 Nov 2009 05:19:28 +0000 http://www.consumerismcommentary.com/2007/02/27/extreme-frugality-living-out-of-your-car/#comment-199781 Dan, Im a College Student in Colorado, I want to live in my car through the winter, i have a gym membership on campus and think this would be a great way to save money, any advice? Dan, Im a College Student in Colorado, I want to live in my car through the winter, i have a gym membership on campus and think this would be a great way to save money, any advice?

]]> By: rebeccaryanhttp://www.consumerismcommentary.com/2007/02/27/extreme-frugality-living-out-of-your-car/#comment-199740 rebeccaryan Sun, 01 Nov 2009 20:34:37 +0000 http://www.consumerismcommentary.com/2007/02/27/extreme-frugality-living-out-of-your-car/#comment-199740 Hi guys! <br>Going on month number two of this adventure. I was thinking of getting a tent heater but I am afraid in my small sedan I could get overwhelmed by fumes. Any advice? Had a set back I accidentally set my car alarm off one night. And I am not sure but I think someone called security. They never questioned me because I was on the way out when they headed in this complex. They did turn around and follow me until I exited. I have been too nervous to return and I have been sleeping at my work parking area. I still need a different place though any<br>ideas? It would be hard to explain if I get caught at work. <br><br>Thanks,<br>Rebecca<br><br><br><br><br><br><br>Thanks<br>Rebecca Hi guys!
Going on month number two of this adventure. I was thinking of getting a tent heater but I am afraid in my small sedan I could get overwhelmed by fumes. Any advice? Had a set back I accidentally set my car alarm off one night. And I am not sure but I think someone called security. They never questioned me because I was on the way out when they headed in this complex. They did turn around and follow me until I exited. I have been too nervous to return and I have been sleeping at my work parking area. I still need a different place though any
ideas? It would be hard to explain if I get caught at work.

Thanks,
Rebecca

Thanks
Rebecca

]]> By: Acajudihttp://www.consumerismcommentary.com/2007/02/27/extreme-frugality-living-out-of-your-car/#comment-199598 Acajudi Sun, 25 Oct 2009 03:00:46 +0000 http://www.consumerismcommentary.com/2007/02/27/extreme-frugality-living-out-of-your-car/#comment-199598 People in the same financial condition should join forces. Do not rip each other off, and rent a studio apartment, and be quiet, and have a place to sleep. The monsters ripping us off stick together to harm us. I have always paid a high percentage of my income to live in the safest place, that I could find. I tried roommates, but they were did honest, so I rather work multiple jobs and overtime, then to trust another crook. I am older now, so I still pay a high rent, but I am happy and at peace, and I still work. If I lose my job, then I will apply for a senior citizen apartment, that will limit my rent to 30% of my gross income. America could do better, for Denmark and other countries make their citizens #1, and if unemployed, you get 90% of your salary for four years. They have hardly any homeless. Wake up America, and take care of your own, by STOP outsourcing jobs, and making the rich richer!! Just how much money, do you GREEDY PIGS NEED? A Brinks will not follow your hearse! People in the same financial condition should join forces. Do not rip each other off, and rent a studio apartment, and be quiet, and have a place to sleep. The monsters ripping us off stick together to harm us. I have always paid a high percentage of my income to live in the safest place, that I could find. I tried roommates, but they were did honest, so I rather work multiple jobs and overtime, then to trust another crook. I am older now, so I still pay a high rent, but I am happy and at peace, and I still work. If I lose my job, then I will apply for a senior citizen apartment, that will limit my rent to 30% of my gross income. America could do better, for Denmark and other countries make their citizens #1, and if unemployed, you get 90% of your salary for four years. They have hardly any homeless. Wake up America, and take care of your own, by STOP outsourcing jobs, and making the rich richer!! Just how much money, do you GREEDY PIGS NEED? A Brinks will not follow your hearse!

]]> By: CLShttp://www.consumerismcommentary.com/2007/02/27/extreme-frugality-living-out-of-your-car/#comment-199597 CLS Sun, 25 Oct 2009 02:42:23 +0000 http://www.consumerismcommentary.com/2007/02/27/extreme-frugality-living-out-of-your-car/#comment-199597 Thanks Bob Johnson. Well, the good thing is that I am eligible for another 13 weeks of unemployment so I hope I find something decent that pays me more the unemployment soon.I found a sweet spot to park in a shopping center where they have a 24 hour fitness gym, starbucks with Wi-Fi, supermarkent and everything else I need on a daily basis. A couple of nights ago I noticed there was a new security guard taking his job a little too seriously. He was looking in to a car with flashlights because the car was parked far away from the rest. I got a little worried but thought he wouldn't bother me. The next day I hear a knock on my window, I answered yes...and he says, you can't sleep here anymore and walked away to his security car. I said okay and started my car to leave. I saw that he left me a violation ticket on my window. It was more of a warning ticket because it didn't have an amount to pay. I went to a Walmart I heard has overnight parking for the RV's that night, but there were no RV's. The next day I called 311 which is the non emergency 911 and I told them my situation and how I wanted to know if there was a safe area where I can park and not be harrassed by the police that can give me a $500. ticket. They apologized and said they had no answer for me. They wished me luck.Santa Barbara has a parking lot for their residents who have fallen to hard times. They have to be there by 10AM and out by 6AM. They go through a screening process to check that they are not crazy or on bad drugs. They are working on opening up in Ventura and in Venice beach. I want to know how I can start something like that in the town I live in. Does anyone know how we can start these kind of lots? Times are really bad right now. Our country is going down the drain fast. There are no good jobs anymore to help us live a average decent life. This is what Capitalist greed has done to us. Thanks Bob Johnson. Well, the good thing is that I am eligible for another 13 weeks of unemployment so I hope I find something decent that pays me more the unemployment soon.

I found a sweet spot to park in a shopping center where they have a 24 hour fitness gym, starbucks with Wi-Fi, supermarkent and everything else I need on a daily basis. A couple of nights ago I noticed there was a new security guard taking his job a little too seriously. He was looking in to a car with flashlights because the car was parked far away from the rest. I got a little worried but thought he wouldn’t bother me. The next day I hear a knock on my window, I answered yes…and he says, you can’t sleep here anymore and walked away to his security car. I said okay and started my car to leave. I saw that he left me a violation ticket on my window. It was more of a warning ticket because it didn’t have an amount to pay. I went to a Walmart I heard has overnight parking for the RV’s that night, but there were no RV’s. The next day I called 311 which is the non emergency 911 and I told them my situation and how I wanted to know if there was a safe area where I can park and not be harrassed by the police that can give me a $500. ticket. They apologized and said they had no answer for me. They wished me luck.

Santa Barbara has a parking lot for their residents who have fallen to hard times. They have to be there by 10AM and out by 6AM. They go through a screening process to check that they are not crazy or on bad drugs. They are working on opening up in Ventura and in Venice beach. I want to know how I can start something like that in the town I live in. Does anyone know how we can start these kind of lots? Times are really bad right now. Our country is going down the drain fast. There are no good jobs anymore to help us live a average decent life. This is what Capitalist greed has done to us.

]]> By: eddieswansonhttp://www.consumerismcommentary.com/2007/02/27/extreme-frugality-living-out-of-your-car/#comment-199596 eddieswanson Sun, 25 Oct 2009 01:58:08 +0000 http://www.consumerismcommentary.com/2007/02/27/extreme-frugality-living-out-of-your-car/#comment-199596 I used to have an Astro Chevrolet van, I would only sleep in it after work. You see I would sleep 30 minutes or 45 minutes, before getting to the gym. I read somewhere in a magazine an article stating that, Americans are very sleep deprived. Due to long hours of work, poor eating habits, diseases and/or disorders the average American needs another half hour of sleep during the day. I tried to sleep at work during the lunchhour,but I couldn't realy enjoy. You see I put a nice thick,padded sleeping bag in my truck, a pillow, and blanket. I felt so full of energy during that short nap. Mhhhjjjfff,, It felt so rewarding like when I was in kindergarden and I would sleep on the floor. Remember just clean up your body at work before getting to your van and get good quality earplugs. Take in mind that their are people with fancy bed matresses who have a hard time to sleep. In Mexico people sleep a siesta during their work hours, in some cities. I used to have an Astro Chevrolet van, I would only sleep in it after work. You see I would sleep 30 minutes or 45 minutes, before getting to the gym. I read somewhere in a magazine an article stating that, Americans are very sleep deprived. Due to long hours of work, poor eating habits, diseases and/or disorders the average American needs another half hour of sleep during the day. I tried to sleep at work during the lunchhour,but I couldn’t realy enjoy. You see I put a nice thick,padded sleeping bag in my truck, a pillow, and blanket. I felt so full of energy during that short nap. Mhhhjjjfff,, It felt so rewarding like when I was in kindergarden and I would sleep on the floor. Remember just clean up your body at work before getting to your van and get good quality earplugs. Take in mind that their are people with fancy bed matresses who have a hard time to sleep. In Mexico people sleep a siesta during their work hours, in some cities.

]]> By: Acajudihttp://www.consumerismcommentary.com/2007/02/27/extreme-frugality-living-out-of-your-car/#comment-199595 Acajudi Sun, 25 Oct 2009 01:39:19 +0000 http://www.consumerismcommentary.com/2007/02/27/extreme-frugality-living-out-of-your-car/#comment-199595 I just read where the airlines are sending planes to El Salvador to be maintained. THEY HAVE OUTSOURCED EVERYTHING FOLKS! People need good jobs, that reflect the cost of living today! I am 67 today, and when I was in my 20's my salary reflected my low rent, and my employer gave me free insurance after 30 days. I am not happy with Medicare!!! I am blessed that I work 30 hours per week for 10 months out of the year. I am glad I am not a young person today, watching my country hire anyone from anywhere, as long as they are not native born and legal Americans. We have so much in this country, if people were not so selfish and greedy. I pray the hottest part of HELL is reserved for the so call leaders, who sell out their people.Stay away from the swine flu vaccine. Body bags were sent with the vaccine to the Aborigines in Australia. Check it out!God: We need you. Help us to help ourselves. Get the greedy ones out of our pockets! I just read where the airlines are sending planes to El Salvador to be maintained. THEY HAVE OUTSOURCED EVERYTHING FOLKS! People need good jobs, that reflect the cost of living today! I am 67 today, and when I was in my 20’s my salary reflected my low rent, and my employer gave me free insurance after 30 days. I am not happy with Medicare!!! I am blessed that I work 30 hours per week for 10 months out of the year. I am glad I am not a young person today, watching my country hire anyone from anywhere, as long as they are not native born and legal Americans. We have so much in this country, if people were not so selfish and greedy. I pray the hottest part of HELL is reserved for the so call leaders, who sell out their people.

Stay away from the swine flu vaccine. Body bags were sent with the vaccine to the Aborigines in Australia. Check it out!

God: We need you. Help us to help ourselves. Get the greedy ones out of our pockets!

]]> By: Bob Johnsonhttp://www.consumerismcommentary.com/2007/02/27/extreme-frugality-living-out-of-your-car/#comment-199584 Bob Johnson Sat, 24 Oct 2009 04:09:56 +0000 http://www.consumerismcommentary.com/2007/02/27/extreme-frugality-living-out-of-your-car/#comment-199584 MercPDX, Thanks! :0) Just takes time I guess. MercPDX,
Thanks! :0) Just takes time I guess.

]]> By: Bob Johnsonhttp://www.consumerismcommentary.com/2007/02/27/extreme-frugality-living-out-of-your-car/#comment-199582 Bob Johnson Sat, 24 Oct 2009 04:04:58 +0000 http://www.consumerismcommentary.com/2007/02/27/extreme-frugality-living-out-of-your-car/#comment-199582 I would have told them what was really up and asked if you could use the main parking lot at the police station. They knew what was really up. They don't give tickets in situations like this. And they ran your tag before they even spoke to you. You sweetened their night a little and they usually just ask that you move on. I'm a little scared for you. I hope you get a job and things work out. I would have told them what was really up and asked if you could use the main parking lot at the police station. They knew what was really up. They don’t give tickets in situations like this. And they ran your tag before they even spoke to you. You sweetened their night a little and they usually just ask that you move on.
I’m a little scared for you. I hope you get a job and things work out.

]]> By: MercPDXhttp://www.consumerismcommentary.com/2007/02/27/extreme-frugality-living-out-of-your-car/#comment-199581 MercPDX Sat, 24 Oct 2009 03:13:56 +0000 http://www.consumerismcommentary.com/2007/02/27/extreme-frugality-living-out-of-your-car/#comment-199581 Hang in there Bob. There is no magic wand when it comes to this stuff. At least it didnt get any worse. The good news is that Economists are optimistic about growth. Its not going to happen over night but we are destined to recover. Hang in there Bob. There is no magic wand when it comes to this stuff. At least it didnt get any worse. The good news is that Economists are optimistic about growth. Its not going to happen over night but we are destined to recover.

]]> By: Bob Johnsonhttp://www.consumerismcommentary.com/2007/02/27/extreme-frugality-living-out-of-your-car/#comment-199580 Bob Johnson Sat, 24 Oct 2009 01:44:06 +0000 http://www.consumerismcommentary.com/2007/02/27/extreme-frugality-living-out-of-your-car/#comment-199580 Acajudi, Greed is a big part of it. I was making 10.00 per hour back in 2000. Today I'm making 10.50 per hour (50 cent difference in ten years). It's very clear that by year 2030 I'll be making 12.00 per hour. I'm a certified volunteer firefighter, but that's not going anywhere "careerwise". I have way too much schooling to be a $10.50 per hour security guard. Enough of my complaints, but I just wish the recession would end. My brother was recently laid off from a $75,000 per year HR director. This president we have was elected to try and fix the economy----whatever happened with that? He was off to a good start and just let it go. Acajudi,
Greed is a big part of it. I was making 10.00 per hour back in 2000. Today I’m making 10.50 per hour (50 cent difference in ten years). It’s very clear that by year 2030 I’ll be making 12.00 per hour.
I’m a certified volunteer firefighter, but that’s not going anywhere “careerwise”. I have way too much schooling to be a $10.50 per hour security guard. Enough of my complaints, but
I just wish the recession would end. My brother was recently laid off from a $75,000 per year HR director. This president we have was elected to try and fix the economy—-whatever happened with that? He was off to a good start and just let it go.

]]> By: snowcathttp://www.consumerismcommentary.com/2007/02/27/extreme-frugality-living-out-of-your-car/#comment-199143 snowcat Mon, 12 Oct 2009 16:02:18 +0000 http://www.consumerismcommentary.com/2007/02/27/extreme-frugality-living-out-of-your-car/#comment-199143 At the very least, get a couple of those $1.00 emergency mylar "blankets" you can find at Wal-Mart in the camping/hunting section. They may not feel like a plush electric blanket, but it won't take for you to realize they aren't so bad, they hold in a TON of body heat, and you'll wonder how you ever tried to stay warm without them. Tape one up (like a pouch) to stick your feet in, and use one as a normal blanket. Add your other blankets over that.........I did find a Red Cross sanctioned survival mini-heater - again, probably Wal-Mart or similar - which plugs into the cigarette lighter and does a simple pre-heat without having to wait for the car to warm up, etc. Probably around $20.Best wishes........stay warm everyone! At the very least, get a couple of those $1.00 emergency mylar “blankets” you can find at Wal-Mart in the camping/hunting section. They may not feel like a plush electric blanket, but it won’t take for you to realize they aren’t so bad, they hold in a TON of body heat, and you’ll wonder how you ever tried to stay warm without them.
Tape one up (like a pouch) to stick your feet in, and use one as a normal blanket. Add your other blankets over that………

I did find a Red Cross sanctioned survival mini-heater – again, probably Wal-Mart or similar – which plugs into the cigarette lighter and does a simple pre-heat without having to wait for the car to warm up, etc. Probably around $20.

Best wishes……..stay warm everyone!

]]> By: MercPDXhttp://www.consumerismcommentary.com/2007/02/27/extreme-frugality-living-out-of-your-car/#comment-199120 MercPDX Sun, 11 Oct 2009 19:48:59 +0000 http://www.consumerismcommentary.com/2007/02/27/extreme-frugality-living-out-of-your-car/#comment-199120 Exactly Acajudi. One of the reasons that i am out here is because i got into some serious debt because i could not afford healthinsurance. It has been half a year now. Having a cellphone, laptop, and gym membership have kept me sane.( Luckily i was able to get a credit card to help me get these things). Looking for work...its been difficult out there. Two months ago it was the heat that was a problem, now it is the cold. Winter is coming... Hopefully our nations healthcare will be reformed and this kind of situation can be avoided. Exactly Acajudi. One of the reasons that i am out here is because i got into some serious debt because i could not afford healthinsurance.
It has been half a year now. Having a cellphone, laptop, and gym membership have kept me sane.( Luckily i was able to get a credit card to help me get these things). Looking for work…its been difficult out there. Two months ago it was the heat that was a problem, now it is the cold. Winter is coming…
Hopefully our nations healthcare will be reformed and this kind of situation can be avoided.

]]> By: Acajudihttp://www.consumerismcommentary.com/2007/02/27/extreme-frugality-living-out-of-your-car/#comment-199117 Acajudi Sun, 11 Oct 2009 17:05:33 +0000 http://www.consumerismcommentary.com/2007/02/27/extreme-frugality-living-out-of-your-car/#comment-199117 It is a shame that some of us have to live in cars. Many people hae multiple homes, which they can only live in one at at time. Greed is the reason we have to suffer, and one day God will end it all, for the betterment of the people being ripped off now, in many ways! It is a shame that some of us have to live in cars. Many people hae multiple homes, which they can only live in one at at time. Greed is the reason we have to suffer, and one day God will end it all, for the betterment of the people being ripped off now, in many ways!

]]> By: Rebecca Ryanhttp://www.consumerismcommentary.com/2007/02/27/extreme-frugality-living-out-of-your-car/#comment-199116 Rebecca Ryan Sun, 11 Oct 2009 16:31:01 +0000 http://www.consumerismcommentary.com/2007/02/27/extreme-frugality-living-out-of-your-car/#comment-199116 I have got this down to a science now. I got a storage unit to put my stuff in. I put my laptop on the floor of the passenger seat. I have a small sedan. At bedtime I put two fluffy pillows ontop of the laptop case. I recline the seat back and sleep in it upsidedown! My legs are a bit elevated but I used to sleep this way anyway to rest my sore legs. I do go to sleep early like around 8pm because I work at 7AM. I find the darkness to be my friend. At 8pm I can move my bedding from the trunk to the back seat I have tinted windows so know one can see whats in there. Also I can get my clothes together for the next day work uniform and clothes for after work. these I also keep in three small boxes in the trunk. One for clean undies, sock and bras. the second is for work clothes and the third is for regular clothes. My trunk is pretty full. I wake at around 4AM to got to the gym and workout then shower and off to work.I joined a volunteer organization that has a thrift store. I can work there whenever I want. I would never have gotten so involved in community activites if this situation hadn't occured. I would go home a get lazy! Interesting?Also I go to libraries a lot. It will get colder soon so I realize right now things are kind of easy. Its hard for me to stay up late on weekends because I got up so early so I do hangout with friends but I am usually the first to leave.One more cool thing I found this great laundry mat. While my clothes are washing I take everything out of my car to reorganize it again it keeps me sane.I realize most people would find this desperate but I really feel like i am getting away with something! Sort of silly I suppose. My goal is to pay off a $5600 debt. I am able to put $!000 o month on it so its going ok. I shouldn't have to do it for too long. But I am starting to question the value of having my own place. I mean once you sign the mortgage papers you don't really own it until its paid off. You only really signed to have the right to pay for it! And then life becomes so limited? I have got this down to a science now. I got a storage unit to put my stuff in. I put my laptop on the floor of the passenger seat. I have a small sedan. At bedtime I put two fluffy pillows ontop of the laptop case. I recline the seat back and sleep in it upsidedown! My legs are a bit elevated but I used to sleep this way anyway to rest my sore legs. I do go to sleep early like around 8pm because I work at 7AM. I find the darkness to be my friend. At 8pm I can move my bedding from the trunk to the back seat I have tinted windows so know one can see whats in there. Also I can get my clothes together for the next day work uniform and clothes for after work. these I also keep in three small boxes in the trunk. One for clean undies, sock and bras. the second is for work clothes and the third is for regular clothes. My trunk is pretty full. I wake at around 4AM to got to the gym and workout then shower and off to work.

I joined a volunteer organization that has a thrift store. I can work there whenever I want. I would never have gotten so involved in community activites if this situation hadn’t occured. I would go home a get lazy! Interesting?

Also I go to libraries a lot. It will get colder soon so I realize right now things are kind of easy. Its hard for me to stay up late on weekends because I got up so early so I do hangout with friends but I am usually the first to leave.

One more cool thing I found this great laundry mat. While my clothes are washing I take everything out of my car to reorganize it again it keeps me sane.

I realize most people would find this desperate but I really feel like i am getting away with something! Sort of silly I suppose. My goal is to pay off a $5600 debt. I am able to put $!000 o month on it so its going ok. I shouldn’t have to do it for too long. But I am starting to question the value of having my own place. I mean once you sign the mortgage papers you don’t really own it until its paid off. You only really signed to have the right to pay for it! And then life becomes so limited?

]]> By: Laurahttp://www.consumerismcommentary.com/2007/02/27/extreme-frugality-living-out-of-your-car/#comment-199045 Laura Fri, 09 Oct 2009 09:18:54 +0000 http://www.consumerismcommentary.com/2007/02/27/extreme-frugality-living-out-of-your-car/#comment-199045 Hi everyone. Well things picked up as I had managed to move out of being a lodger in a bad situation with the person I didn't get on with at all and it wasn't my home as in I was there living in their house. I moved into my own accomodation but it was in a bad area and not a very nice place at all. I am lucky, I have managed to move away into a flat in a better area now and things are picking up. Laura Hi everyone. Well things picked up as I had managed to move out of being a lodger in a bad situation with the person I didn’t get on with at all and it wasn’t my home as in I was there living in their house. I moved into my own accomodation but it was in a bad area and not a very nice place at all. I am lucky, I have managed to move away into a flat in a better area now and things are picking up.
Laura

]]> By: CLShttp://www.consumerismcommentary.com/2007/02/27/extreme-frugality-living-out-of-your-car/#comment-198958 CLS Tue, 06 Oct 2009 03:59:58 +0000 http://www.consumerismcommentary.com/2007/02/27/extreme-frugality-living-out-of-your-car/#comment-198958 I heard in the news today that Mattel has come up with a new addition to the American Doll collection. Her name is Gwen Thompson and she and her mother are homeless and sleeping in a car. She has her story, dad ran off when he lost his job and her mom lost her job too so this poor little girl has no home just a car. She sellls for $95.00 Isn't that something? It's the "Sign of the times"I had a big scare a few nights ago. I parked in a business zone because I don't like parking in a residential area so I won't disturb the neighbors that could call the cops on me. Well, someone saw me and called the cops anyway. They came banging on my windows with flashlights. I sleep with a big black sheet on top of me so people won't notice but since theywere looking in with flashlights they could see a body and even since I ignored them they continued banging with such a force I finally raised my head and they were shocked to see me and they asked me to open the door. Since it was hot, I was wearing little shorts so I climbed overn legs first, and I don't mean to brag but I am fairly attractive and in great 24 hour fitness shape so they were a little flirty with me. They asked what I was doing, I said I was was resting. They asked if I had a home and I said yes. I had a fight with my boyfriend and I left and was just resting. I told them I didn't know I was doing anything wrong. They asked if I was scared of gang activities. I said no, I wasn't aware of this happening in the area. In my head I was thinking how I'm more scared of them because they could give me a ticket and impound my car and ruin my life even more. I apologized for doing something I didn't know was wrong and told them I would go home now. I said good by and drove far away from that place and I will never go back there again.I'm desperately looking for a job. My unemployment runs out November 21st and I will be in big trouble once it stops. All I hear is bad news everyday about the job market and the layoffs and now Mattel is cashing in on the Homeless American Doll. And they tell us that this is the greatest country in the world. I heard in the news today that Mattel has come up with a new addition to the American Doll collection. Her name is Gwen Thompson and she and her mother are homeless and sleeping in a car. She has her story, dad ran off when he lost his job and her mom lost her job too so this poor little girl has no home just a car. She sellls for $95.00 Isn’t that something? It’s the “Sign of the times”

I had a big scare a few nights ago. I parked in a business zone because I don’t like parking in a residential area so I won’t disturb the neighbors that could call the cops on me. Well, someone saw me and called the cops anyway. They came banging on my windows with flashlights. I sleep with a big black sheet on top of me so people won’t notice but since theywere looking in with flashlights they could see a body and even since I ignored them they continued banging with such a force I finally raised my head and they were shocked to see me and they asked me to open the door. Since it was hot, I was wearing little shorts so I climbed overn legs first, and I don’t mean to brag but I am fairly attractive and in great 24 hour fitness shape so they were a little flirty with me. They asked what I was doing, I said I was was resting. They asked if I had a home and I said yes. I had a fight with my boyfriend and I left and was just resting. I told them I didn’t know I was doing anything wrong. They asked if I was scared of gang activities. I said no, I wasn’t aware of this happening in the area. In my head I was thinking how I’m more scared of them because they could give me a ticket and impound my car and ruin my life even more. I apologized for doing something I didn’t know was wrong and told them I would go home now. I said good by and drove far away from that place and I will never go back there again.

I’m desperately looking for a job. My unemployment runs out November 21st and I will be in big trouble once it stops. All I hear is bad news everyday about the job market and the layoffs and now Mattel is cashing in on the Homeless American Doll. And they tell us that this is the greatest country in the world.

]]> By: Rebecca Ryanhttp://www.consumerismcommentary.com/2007/02/27/extreme-frugality-living-out-of-your-car/#comment-198914 Rebecca Ryan Sun, 04 Oct 2009 16:15:23 +0000 http://www.consumerismcommentary.com/2007/02/27/extreme-frugality-living-out-of-your-car/#comment-198914 I can see your point the article does put him in the spotlight. I am presently doing the same thing and I wouldn't tell a soul. I only have to make it about six months though. This guy is my idol! Just kidding seriously I typed in "living in my car" to make myseld feel better about the situation. And hey i guess I am not alone! I can see your point the article does put him in the spotlight. I am presently doing the same thing and I wouldn’t tell a soul. I only have to make it about six months though. This guy is my idol! Just kidding seriously I typed in “living in my car” to make myseld feel better about the situation. And hey i guess I am not alone!

]]> By: Positivebrohttp://www.consumerismcommentary.com/2007/02/27/extreme-frugality-living-out-of-your-car/#comment-198098 Positivebro Tue, 08 Sep 2009 19:33:38 +0000 http://www.consumerismcommentary.com/2007/02/27/extreme-frugality-living-out-of-your-car/#comment-198098 Hello ER, I am still in my car next to the VA compound. It's going on 7 months. The truth of the matter is that this isn't for everyone. I do long for being back into some form of housing now. I respect all who can do this. Hello ER,
I am still in my car next to the VA compound. It’s going on 7 months. The truth of the matter is that this isn’t for everyone. I do long for being back into some form of housing now. I respect all who can do this.

]]> By: Bob Johnsonhttp://www.consumerismcommentary.com/2007/02/27/extreme-frugality-living-out-of-your-car/#comment-198086 Bob Johnson Tue, 08 Sep 2009 13:29:48 +0000 http://www.consumerismcommentary.com/2007/02/27/extreme-frugality-living-out-of-your-car/#comment-198086 Acajudi, I know. And renters make noise and cause trouble. I moved back in my condo due to the south Florida heat. But once I get my generator and A/C unit I'll be on my way. I saw a nice van the other day for $12,000 Brand new too. If I had a van I'd get the inside fixed up like a bedroom. A 12,000 BTU A/C unit, built in generator and satellite television. Acajudi,
I know. And renters make noise and cause trouble. I moved back in my condo due to the south Florida heat. But once I get my generator and A/C unit I’ll be on my way.
I saw a nice van the other day for $12,000 Brand new too. If I had a van I’d get the inside fixed up like a bedroom. A 12,000 BTU A/C unit, built in generator and satellite television.

]]> By: Bob Johnsonhttp://www.consumerismcommentary.com/2007/02/27/extreme-frugality-living-out-of-your-car/#comment-198084 Bob Johnson Tue, 08 Sep 2009 13:22:54 +0000 http://www.consumerismcommentary.com/2007/02/27/extreme-frugality-living-out-of-your-car/#comment-198084 The Salvation Army in Fort Lauderdale, FL has security and won't let you park overnight unless maybe you ask the manager. I volunteer for a fire department, so it's no problem for me to sleep or hang out. They are a bunch of great people and I'll bet anything that they will let you use their parking lots wherever you are. Won't hurt to ask. Firefighters are very laid back and always there to help. Trust me, I am one. The Salvation Army in Fort Lauderdale, FL has security and won’t let you park overnight unless maybe you ask the manager. I volunteer for a fire department, so it’s no problem for me to sleep or hang out. They are a bunch of great people and I’ll bet anything that they will let you use their parking lots wherever you are. Won’t hurt to ask. Firefighters are very laid back and always there to help. Trust me, I am one.

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