Sleep Rough

Filed in archive Budget Accommodations on September 23, 2007

Camping is one of the obvious accommodation choices for those who are traveling on a budget. But if and when you do go camping, you must keep in mind that you have to carry with you the necessary camping equipment which you might need; and, in most places, you can only camp in certain places for a fee.

It would be more convenient (not to mention, cheap!) if budget travelers could just sleep rough. And in some countries, this is actually possible.

[source: wikitravel]

In Norway, Sweden and Finland, people have the right to access. It means that people have the right to camp freely in the woods and in the mountains. If you see private property nearby, just walk away for around 150 meters where you are sure that you are not inconveniencing anyone and you can safely stay there and sleep.

In Japan, sleeping rough or sleeping outside is referred to as nojuku (野宿). Many young Japanese actually practice this when they travel in their own country. Most of them practice this in urban areas such as train stations, road service stations or anywhere else they could find where public baths (sento) or saunas are nearby.

Of course, before you do decide to sleep rough, there are still a few things which you should consider:

• The Weather. I am sure you'd understand if I tell you that it would not be a good idea to do this in the winter.


• The areas crime rate. You wouldn't want to wake up with all your belongings gone, would you?


• I suggest that you try it with a traveling companion or a travel group, as well. It would be a lot safer.