Recently, one of our RV Lifestyle group members on Facebook reached out to our members. Christy recently talked to another RVer about staying overnight at Walmart parking lots versus rest areas. She said that she feels more secure at rest areas since most have surveillance cameras and occasionally security personnel.

Her acquaintance said that she feels safer parking overnight in Walmart parking lots. She posed this question to the rest of our members: 

"What do all prefer when traveling?" she asked, and received hundreds of responses. 

I will give you the gist of their replies below and provide resources and advice to help you determine where you should stay.

Safety is one of the biggest concerns of "lot docking" or overnighting in a parking lot or rest area. Is it safe to park overnight at Walmart? What about rest stops? How can you be as safe as possible?

To answer the question directly, the safety of each depends on its location. I know that's a frustratingly vague answer, but it's the truth. A Walmart in a nice neighborhood is likely safer than a rest area in a bad area, and vice versa.

Jennifer and I have happily stayed at Walmarts and rest areas and felt safe. Although, there have been times when we pulled in and pulled right back out because we didn't feel safe. The key is to pay attention to your surroundings and trust your instincts.