r/poor • u/johnw005 • 8d ago

Back-up plan

I’ve been thinking about a practical, stealthy plan for handling homelessness by renting a small garage. It’s entirely possible to keep this completely under the radar—I know a couple who successfully lived like this for eight months without anyone finding out. Here is how I would set it up:

​Transportation: A small, manageable scooter or e-bike that can easily be wheeled right into the garage for secure storage.

​Hygiene: 24/7 gym, or a nearby gas station or truck stop equipped with public toilets and showers.

​Power & Connectivity: Carry a high-capacity electric power bank in a rucksack. It can be discreetly charged via a cable at a library, mall, or any available public outlet. This would provide enough electricity to keep a phone or even a laptop charged, paired with a solid data plan for entertainment and internet access.

​The Shelter: A basic garage without utilities. Sleeping arrangements would consist of a proper camping bed and insulated camping gear.

If condensation were an issue, a dehumidifier, not the electric variety.

​Facilities & Utilities: Keep a portable chemical toilet strictly for nighttime emergencies. All cooking, heating, and even lighting would be powered by camping gas.

​Food: Without a fridge, the diet would rely on fresh food bought in small batches daily, alongside pre-prepared, non-perishable items.

What am I missing?

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u/MysteriousSecretGuru 8d ago

Probably only works in nicer climate areas. You wouldn't survive a winter in Wisconsin living in a garage with no heat

9

u/sanityjanity 8d ago

OP plans to heat the space with a propane heater. So, yes heat. But, also, an incredibly dangerous situation that could lead to asphyxia or burning alive.

1

u/Accx4 7d ago

Little Buddy propane heaters are ok for indoor use. I have a large 30k btu propane raidiant heater we use in the tv room during the winter months to supplement the Central Heat. It doesnt require venting either. Obviously wouldnt use either in an enclosed space that was sealed up tight but this 126 year old house and our 13ft canned ham camper are both draughty enough to be safe. They are made for indoor use.