You’re on your big adventure and you lose or break your gear on day one of your 15-day expedition or you're jumping into Airstreaming full-time which means you don't necessarily have a static shipping address, now what? Here are a few solutions to get packages shipped to nearby locations while you're out and about.
Amazon Hub (Locker & Counter)
Pick up your packages from a location near where you're staying with one of several hundred Amazon pickup locations. Simply type in your current location or enable location services and Amazon will provide a convenient pickup spot. They offer Amazon Locker and Amazon Counter. Learn more about Amazon Hub here >
UPS, USPS, and FedEx Packaging Holding Services
You can have your packages mailed to brick and mortar locations for each of the major U.S. shipping services.
- Bring your ID when picking up a package
- Call ahead to ensure the location offers this service
- Check the store hours to avoid arriving to a locked door
- Read up on specific 'hold a package' services offered by:
Campground Pickups
If you're headed to a campground or already set up, there's a chance they'll accept packages that you can easily pick up. Be sure to coordinate with the campground manager to inquire about the availability of the service and for the best shipping address.
A quick Google search provides their phone number, hours of operation, physical address, a link to their website, and sometimes an option to message them directly.
Local Delivery from Retail Stores
Grocery shopping has evolved with most brick and mortar locations offering local delivery, and sometimes free delivery depending on if you subscribe to their services or place an order over a specific dollar amount. Choose the store nearest you, double check they have the item in their inventory, and boom — it shows up in no time directly to your Airstream. You can also explore services such as Instacart to get what you need from local stores.
Retail giants like Wal-Mart and Target offer same day delivery in a lot of locations and they carry just about everything you'll need, including food, clothing, bedding, and outdoor gear. Be sure to provide detailed delivery instructions for the driver.
Don't forget about curbside pick-up at these retail locations! While it may not fit the bill for getting items delivered directly to your door, the convenience of placing an order and picking it up shortly after provides a seamless way to plan ahead and save time.
Third-Party Options
Booking a delivery through TaskRabbit or other third-party company is dependent on it being available in your current area, but it could come in handy if you can't get to a retail location, Amazon locker, or shipping store.
Friends and Family
Utilize your network of family and friends across the state, region, or country. They'll likely be happy to help and will be pleased to see you. Planning and good communication is key.
You may also be moochdocking (staying on a friend or family's property for free) which means that you have a residential address to ship to and can get your items delivered without fuss.