Finding a Place to Sleep is Half the Battle
Where to sleep tonight? It is the question every van lifer asks daily. Fortunately, there is a growing ecosystem of apps dedicated to helping nomads find their next spot. Here are the best ones.
Free Apps
1. iOverlander
Community-driven camping database with over 60,000 locations worldwide. Excellent for international van lifers and off-the-beaten-path spots. Free with no ads.
2. Campendium
Our favorite free camping app. Focuses on free and cheap campsites, with honest user reviews. Filters by price, hookups, and site type.
3. FreeRoam
Aggregates data from multiple sources including BLM land, National Forests, and user submissions. Great map interface.
4. Google Maps
Do not overlook the basics. Search "rest area" or "Walmart parking lot" and you will often find overnight parking spots. Check local ordinances first.
Paid Apps Worth the Money
The Dyrt PRO ($35.99/year)
The most comprehensive camping database available. Offline maps are the killer feature for areas without cell service. Worth every penny if you camp regularly.
Harvest Hosts ($99/year)
Park overnight for free at wineries, breweries, farms, and museums. Overnight stays require a membership but generally no hookup fee. Perfect for self-contained vans.
Safety Tip
Always check recent reviews before committing to a spot. Conditions can change — a review from two years ago may not reflect current reality.