this post was submitted on 14 Dec 2025
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I think van livers have different needs to street sleepers. And I also don't know what people's circumstances are, only that they aren't sleeping in a house. Tho there are two caravans at the park. Does that count as a dwelling?
I donât know, you might have to ask them directly what is needed. It really depends on the vans setup and what they can access.
My ideas?
spoiler
Tissues are really useful as is sanny if theyâre using park public toilets (like in the night) that might run out of paper or soap or not supply it. Or if theyâre digging sneaky toilet holes. Baby wipes clean both hands and bums as well as pits so a pack of those is always good value.Maybe some cheap flip flops for the public shower visits if the place doesnât give those. Hair ties. Sunscreen. Hat. Laundry bag or dry bag. Nail scissors or clippers. Paracetamol.
Some caravans have a water storage tank that lets you pump it out into the sink, but I donât know if they have a tap nearby in the park to fill it or if theyâd be comfortable drinking it. Also some public taps get disabled by removing the handle. Some bottled water and disposable cups/bowls/utensils may or may not be welcome? A bucket?
Storable snacks. Slim Jims, peanut butter(?), nuts, chips, muesli bars, generic brand Up and Go drinks or juice boxes. Biscuits and crackers. Cheese sticks if they keep. Things that are shelf stable and donât need prep, utensils or cleanup.
Electrolyte powder so they can put some in a plastic bottle and fill it up from the nearest working tap. Vitamin C tablets or multivitamins. Sturdy washable or peelable fresh fruit like apples, bananas or oranges.
Disinfectant wipes or baby wipes for caravan interior cleanup. Garbage bags. Some Salvos sell laundry detergent sheets that are easier to carry in small amounts to laundromats, or maybe whatever equivalent of Tide Pods.
No idea if they have power, they very likely donât. Maybe a few power packs and cables for their phones if they have them. These can possibly run hand warmers or tiny fans for some comfort. Iâd suggest solar powered power banks but annoyingly they arenât very good. The solar powered lantern from Kmart seems alright though.
Foil shields for the windows if the van gets very hot or cold. Sheets to provide curtains for privacy.
Socks and jocks of the appropriate size might be welcome, maybe crop bras if applicable, or even some seasonal clothing.
Maybe thereâs something in there that might be of use.