Time to Sleep (Part 1)

   Now that we've covered the bare minimum you'll want to have handy, let's look at that sleeping bag. In particular, let's look at where you'll be using it. I hate to be the bearer of bad news here, but unless you've got a bunch of money to spend on motels every night, most of your options aren't technically "legal" in the US (I can't speak for other countries' laws). You're not likely to run into much trouble, but it's something to be aware of. (Note: everything illegal after here is strictly hypothetical*, I'm not suggesting anyone break the law**)
   The easiest choice is usually to camp somewhere out of the way. Honestly, I'd rather sleep out under the stars most nights anyway. It doesn't matter how you travel, this option is always open. Picking a spot to camp is going to be its own article, but at least try to find somewhere a little secluded. Try not to sleep where half the town will notice you; the more people notice you, the more likely someone is to call the cops (who will usually tell you to move along, but may give you a ticket for "Illegal Camping"). If it's likely to rain, and you don't have any shelter with you (next article), the ledge found underneath many bridges and overpasses is good, as long as it's not too visible.
   Squatting an abandoned building. Unless the weather really sucks, this can be more trouble than it's worth. You're less likely to get noticed by most people, but if you are found, things can go downhill quick. Property owners can get violent, cops are way more likely to charge you with something (trespassing, B&E, burglary). Aside from those worries though, it's a good way to get some much needed privacy and quiet. It's also fun to explore, even if it's just a condemned old house. Obviously safety is something to keep in mind the whole time. There are other pages online with way more info on the topic.
   Couches, floors, etc. Occasionally, you'll have friends or family in town who will invite you stay with them. Sometimes, if you're hitch-hiking, your rides will offer to let you crash at their place. There's also couchsurfing (google it); I have no experience with it, but plenty of people swear by it.
   There are probably other options that I haven't covered, but these are the most common. I would love to go into more detail, and I'll try to add links to sites with useful info. If you have any questions, comments or ideas, leave a message in the comment section.


* - not hypothetical at all.
** - Bullshit, that's exactly what I'm suggesting when the law happens to be ridiculous.