Car Living and Communication

Car living seems a very relevant topic right now, so I’m going to re-visit some of my advice on this topic.

The first thing I want to discuss is communication.   To thrive, and not just survive, while car living- it’s necessary to stay connected.  Each person will have to decide what this means exactly, but here are some thoughts on the general topic of connection and communication while car living:

Car Living & Mail

Mail is, in fact, a very important subject- because our evil government demands a mailing address at almost every turn.   In order to get or keep a drivers license, for example, you must have a mailing address.  The same goes for a bank account should you want one.  And also for getting a cell phone and various other services you may want.

The first and best choice is to use a friend or family member’s mailing address– and only receive vital mail there.   All bills you have should be paid online…  eliminate paper billing and paper statements as much as possible.

Second choice is to get a post office box– though some services and agencies will not ship to a post office box (UPS for example– and certain government agencies).   However, for most purposes, a  post office box will work fine.. either one through the post office or a private post office box through UPS (they will ship to their own store

Car Living & Phone

If you can afford it, a cheap cell phone is by far the best option.   It’s mobile and convenient and a very basic plan is fairly cheap.    If you’ve got the money, an iPhone gives you a lot of options– get the unlimited data plan and then you effectively have a small computer as well as a phone– perfect for paying bills, and emailing out of country friends.

A very cheap option is to get the most basic, cheap plan possible…  and add on unlimited text messaging.  Then use text messaging instead of calling to communicate with friends, arrange meetings, etc.

Car Living & Computers/Internet

The internet is another great communication option for car-living hobopoets.  Internet access is free at most libraries.  If you can’t afford a phone or phone service, use email to connect with friends and others.   You can also blog as a creative outlet.

Of course, if you can afford your own laptop, your options increase.  With a laptop and a little money, you can take advantage of free wireless at many coffee shops.   Spend hours working or playing online, writing, and reading–  all for the price of a coffee.   In San Francisco, many entrepreneurs run surprisingly lucrative and successful businesses from coffee shops and laptops.   They even have a name for these folks:  neo-bedouins.

Imagine, for example, running a tiny jewelry business while car-living.   Make your jewelry in your van or at a park.   Create a website to sell it.   Market the jewelry through a blog, podcast, newsletter, etc.   Receive orders & payments online through PayPal… then ship them out–  all run from a laptop and a wireless connection at a coffee shop (it might even be cheaper to get a monthly wireless service through a cell phone company)!   You wouldn’t need to sell much in order to support such a lifestyle.

Car Living & a Fun Social Life

Car living can be fun because you have so much free time.   There’s a lot you can do with that time– without spending money.   Sports and outdoor activities are some of the best.   Play soccer.  Play ultimate frisbee.  Play softball.   Do yoga at the park.   Free local groups can be found in almost every community.

As you may know, I’m particularly fond of disc golf– it’s a great way to meet people, it’s fun, and it’s free.  Find a course near you at:  www.pdga.com

Music is another great free pursuit that can be social.   The simplest thing is to get a small super-cheap hand drum.   Drum circles can be found all over– and beginners are usually welcome.  This is fun and a great way to meet people and enjoy life.   Of course, guitars and various other portable instruments are also great fun.

Join Clubs While Car Living

Look on meetup.com to find local groups to participate in.   Also look on bulletin boards at coffee shops and colleges…  and look in the newspaper.   Fill your evenings with interesting clubs and hobbies.

See Speakers While Car Living

Speakers are another great way to learn and enjoy your free time.   Some may charge a fee, but many interesting speakers can be heard for free.   Look for announcements from colleges and libraries to find speakers.

As you can see, it’s possible to have a very rich social life while living in a car or van.  It’s also possible to stay in touch with friends and family.  In fact, you may find that your social life expands tremendously– because suddenly you’ll have a lot more free time.  Take advantage of it and enjoy it!