Boondocking Etiquette
Susan J
We recently talked about some general boondocking tips, and this post will somewhat tie into that. This time we will look at some tips for blacktop boodocking. This term refers to staying overnight in parking lots. Many people park their RVs overnight in parking lots such as Wal-Mart while they are on their way to their destination. It is important to practice good etiquette to reflect a positive image of the RV-ing community. If blacktop boondocking becomes a problem, then many companies may forbid people from staying in their parking lots. Fortunately, here are some tips to help you have good etiquette when you are blacktop boondocking.
First of all, you should always get permission from the manager or owner of the location you intend to stay at. You should park in an area of the parking lot away from other cars, as you don’t want to be in the way. If you choose to stop at a truck stop that doesn’t have an area for RVs, park to the side or back, away from the trucks.
During your stay, make sure to obey any posted rules in the area. You shouldn’t pull out your awning, chairs, or grill, and you should avoid using your pop outs (if possible). Make sure to only stay one night so that you don’t overstay your welcome. When you leave, be sure to pick up all of your trash, and any trash that was already there. Its always a good idea to leave a site cleaner than when you found it- you don’t want to give the impression that you left a mess behind you. It is good etiquette to buy the property owner or retailer a small gift as a thank you, for letting you stay there.
If you need somewhere to stay another night, or if you need other amenities, you should relocate to a nearby campground if possible. If you are looking to save some money, you can also look into some dry camping locations. This is important because many people have made complaints about RV-ers causing problems or overstaying their welcome while blacktop boondocking at places like Wal-Mart. Practicing good etiquette will help keep this privilege an option when we really need it.