How to Live on the Street

While living on the street is not always a choice, it doesn't have to be a nightmare. Many people actually choose to live a nomadic lifestyle, free of material possessions and the demands of modern living. If you live on the street and want to improve your quality of life, a few tips can help.

Instructions

• 1

  Keep your pack as light as possible. Sleeping gear is a must, and should be as small as possible. Down filled sleeping bags, which are light weight and can pack small, are a great choice. Carry only the essentials and consider renting a small locker in a bus station or at the local YMCA where you can store extra clothes, your bedding and other items when you are not using them.

• 2

  Invest in a YMCA membership. While this may seem like an unnecessary expense, it can be a great way to get regular showers and can even offer you an occasional place to sleep and relax.

• 3

  Carry baking soda in your pack. Baking soda is an essential item when living on the street, as it can be rubbed on your body after a sponge bath to reduce body odor and can even be used as a toothpaste.

• 4

  Sleep as much during the day as possible, as sleeping at night is not only cold and dangerous, it can also bring unwanted attention from police. Finding a comfortable spot in the grass in a local park or even catching some Z's at the beach is inconspicuous and convenient.

• 5

  Visit restaurants, delis and bakeries in the evening hours when they are cleaning up and getting ready to close. Often these places will provide you with work washing dishes or cleaning up in exchange for food or a few dollars. Make sure that you are clean and smelling fresh when you go, to increase your chances for work. With time, you will become familiar with the best places and can create a friendly relationship with the employees.

• 6

  Go to homeless shelters when you need a meal, a warm place, a friendly face or medical attention. While these locations may not be able to offer you the exact thing that you need, they are a great resource and will often offer ideas or a helping hand when needed.