Are you a Vanlifer? If yes, then you must have thought of stealth camping, true?
In this blog, we are going to talk all about stealth camping. Also, we are going to let you know some useful tips that you must follow while stealth camping.
What Is Stealth Camping?
Stealth camping is a kind of camping that is done in urban areas where prolonged camping is not allowed. As there is no particular campsite, there are various legal places where you can park your stealth van overnight without catching anyone’s attention.
The most common stealth camping locations are city streets and residential areas.
In other words, stealth camping is a term that is used basically to describe RVers who want a comfortable and safe place to spend their night without catching anyone’s attention.
But why do people do stealth camping? What are its advantages? Let’s find out!
What Are The Advantages of Stealth Camping?
There are plenty of benefits of stealth camping. Undoubtedly, it is the best and most enjoyable experience that you can receive. But if you’re someone who doesn’t like to stay alone and wish to meet new people, then my friend, stealth camping is not for you!
Well, stealth camping has its advantages. They are:
1. Cost Effective:
Normal camping is expensive but stealth camping saves a lot of money. The reservations of campgrounds and all that other expenses are more in normal camping. But in stealth camping, there is no such extra expense.
It surely keeps the wallet happy.
2. Convenient
Stealth camping is the most convenient camping that you can do. All you need to do is find a good and legal place to spend your night. And then, nothing can be more hassle-free, efficient, and convenient than stealth camping.
3. Adventure
Undoubtedly, stealth camping is the most adventurous.
It provides such an amazing experience which you would have never got otherwise.
So, whether you are looking for a wild spot or a remote area, then stealth camping is a brilliant way to do so.
Most importantly, it is perfect for you, if you enjoy solitude and love to connect with nature!
Is Stealth Camping Legal?
Well, it depends! It is legal in certain cases.
Most of the cities and towns have imposed a ban on overnight parking in some areas. In all such areas, stealth camping is not legal.
Whereas, in some areas where overnight parking is allowed, stealth camping is legal at those places.
However, it is recommended to check the local rules and regulations before stealth camping. If a certain location has the sign “No overnight parking”, then it is very obvious that stealth camping is not legal there.
But, in areas where there is no such ban or imposition, stealth camping is allowed and it is legal.
Moreover, if you’re parking your stealth van overnight in the parking lot. Then it is advisable to take permission from the business owner before doing so.
Some Useful Tips for Stealth Camping
If you are planning it, then these are some useful tips for you. Make sure to follow them to make your it experience better than ever!
1. Choose The Right Vehicle
Choosing a perfect vehicle is very important as stealth camping is dependent totally on the stealth van. The smaller your vehicle, the easier it would be to stealth camp.
The reason behind that is, large RVs are easy to get noticed, and parking them is also tough. That’s why, always choose a small vehicle when planning for stealth camping.
2. Change Parking Spots
If you park in the same spot, chances are you will get noticed. That’s why you must keep changing your parking spot.
So, if you are planning to stealth camp in a city, then it is advisable to park at different locations.
And unfortunately, if you get caught at any location, then do not return to that place again. This way you can stay safe from burglars and robbers as well.
3. Don’t Set-Up A Camp
Stealth camping is hidden camping, that’s why do not set up any camp. Because camps are easily visible. So, don’t set up anything outside your stealth van.
The whole purpose of stealth camping is to not gain attention, and setting up a camp will draw everyone’s attention toward you. And your mission of stealth camping will be successful.
4. Arrive Late and Leave Early
This is the best trick that you can use when stealth camping. Try to arrive as late as possible to the location and make sure to leave as early as possible in the morning.
Moreover, when you are in the park, that is the best time to go to bed. Close all the windows and shut all the lights and sleep peacefully. Also, make sure that nothing comes out of the windows or doors, keep them closed.
5. Leave No Trace
You should never leave any traces behind when you are in a stealth camp, as you might get noticed if you do so.
So, it is very important to leave no trace behind. Also, make sure to remember all this:
- Do not ignite any fire when stealth camping because the ashes will remain and you’ll be easy to trace.
- Make sure to leave the camp location as it is, in the same state you found it. Do not dispose of any garbage or do anything that might be helpful to trace you.
- Take full care of the environment and wildlife of the campsite.
6. Stay In Well Lit Places
For the sake of safety, avoid dark places and places where there is no source of light. You will think of camping in a dark corner to avoid getting caught. But believe us when we say, avoid dark places.
Dark places are not safe, you might get burgled if you do so. Also, there is the threat of insects, and overall dark places are not safe. So, find a place that has even a small light.
7. Be Aware Of Your Surroundings
It is not that easy, you have to be fully aware of your surroundings. Make sure to park your stealth van in a place where there is less crowd and avoid blocking the road with your van.
Also, make sure that you don’t park at places where you might get disturbed in the middle of the night, like parking near train tracks.
8. Consider The Environment
Considering the environment is very important. Try to protect and respect your environment at the time of stealth camping. That means, avoiding littering, and keeping the noise levels as low as possible.
Also, try to avoid all the other activities that might catch your attention.
9. Be Ready To Run Away
You can get a knock on the door anytime, also an emergency can arrive anytime. So, make sure that you are always ready to start your vehicle and run away.
Before sleeping, ensure that everything is in its place and well organized. If you do not do so, then chances are you might get caught. This will lead to many problems.
So, always stay ready to run away! The best thing about stealth vans is that you can drive and run anytime. So, try to be ready always!
What Are Some Red Flags At Stealth Camping?
There are some things that you should avoid when stealth camping. Because they can bring difficulties and trouble to you.Â
So, here are some red flags that you must avoid if you are stealth camping.
1. Making Noise
If you do not want to get caught and catch anyone’s attention, then the best thing is to not make any noise. Try to make as little noise as possible, do not honk the horns or test your vehicle. Also, try playing music at a low pace.
Keep what we suggested in mind to avoid getting caught!
2. Avoiding Laws and Regulations
If you’re avoiding/ignoring the rules and regulations that you need to follow, then my friend, you’re doing it wrong! Rules, laws, and regulations and meant to be followed. By not following them, you can only dig your own grave.
Also, don’t get surprised if you get a knock on your door, if you don’t follow the rules.
So, to avoid unnecessary knocks, research the location and try to adhere to the rules of that particular location. Suppose, if a location prohibits parking in an area, then do not park! Not following rules means inviting troubles! Choice is yours!
3. Leaving The Windows Open
If you are leaving your windows open, then you’re inviting some guests that can cause trouble to you! Yes, you heard it right, leaving windows open is a big threat to you. Anyone can sneak in your windows, animals can enter or any terrible thing can happen.
So, try to use window covers and ensure that they are fully covered.
4. Staying In The Same Location For A Long Time
If you are stealth camping at a location for a long time, then you are doing it wrong. Camping in the same place for a long time can catch anyone’s attention and you might get caught.
So, avoid parking in the same place again and again and for a long time.
What Are The Things That You Should Pack For Stealth Camping?
Some things are must-haves when you are stealth camping. Here is a list of all those items that you must keep while packing for it. They are:
- Mirror
- Flashlight
- Satellite phone
- Whistle
- Heavy-duty needle and thread
- Medicines for pain, fever, vomiting, diarrhea, etc.
- Band-aids
- Torch including a head torch.
- Eye drops
- Tweezers, scissors
- Antiseptic creams
- Water purifier
- Poop bags
- Sterile wipes
- Snakebit kit
- Emergency blanket
- Duct tape
- Lip balm, lotion
- Pocket knife and a lot more.
Conclusion
That’s the end of the article on “Things You Should Know About Stealth Camping”. We have tried our best to make you aware of everything about it. For that, we have jotted down everything from what is stealth camping, its benefits, tips to follow to everything else.
Still, if you have doubts, then feel free to contact us. We are here for you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Stealth Camping Illegal?
We can’t accurately say whether stealth camping is legal or illegal. But we can only say that it depends on the situation. If overnight parking is prohibited in some areas and you have still parked your van there, then it’s illegal.
However, it is legal in some places.
2. What To Pack For Stealth Camping?
There are certain things that you must have when you are stealth camping. They are as follows- sleeping bag, tent, sleeping mat, food, stove, torch, pillow, poop bags, and all the necessary items.
3. Is Stealth Camping Inexpensive?
Yes, totally! It is inexpensive as you don’t have to spend your amount on anything. All you need is a stealth van and you are good to go.
