Oh, the things you can find, if you don't stay behind.
10 Tips To Stealth Camping
Whether you are traversing the world in a car or living full-time from a van, adequate sleep is essential to your successful daylight, exploring moments. Logging hundreds of miles sometimes make it necessary to pull off for rest at places you may have never considered before. We have all heard of overnighting at Walmart parking lots and truck stops, but what if you needed to spend the night along a city street? The key is to find somewhere that feels safe and not busy, or there will be no chance of peaceful slumber.
#1 Low Key
The first tip is not to draw attention to yourself. When Stealth Camping, it’s vital to blend in and look like all of the other parked cars. Keeping music turned down and limiting any loud conversation is probably best.
Keeping the interior lights dimmed and the curtains shut (if you have them) is another best practice. This tip is especially important the later you pull in to a place.
#2 Follow The Signs
Although this seems obvious, pay attention to parking, private property and no trespassing signs as you pull into a place, especially after dark. This small act will save you from being woken up to security or the police asking you to leave. Most Casinos open 24 hours and a reliable place to overnight, but not so much when a hotel is attached. One way to fix this is to be sure you’re actually in the Casino parking lot; another is to ask the attendant at the hotel desk if it’s alright. You might get the green light, but either way, you’ll know for sure by asking.
Also, don’t cause alarm by parents or well-meaning passers-by and stay clear of anywhere where children hang out. Nobody likes the look of a van parked near a school or park.
#3 Escape Route
As you park, make an escape route, should you need it. Always park with a quick exit in mind if there would happen to be any trouble. For example, back into parking spaces and never park behind gates because it would be a total bummer if you woke to find yourself locked in with the junkyard dog!
#4 Get Up and Moving Early
If you are parked on the street, moving your vehicle before people start their day keeps you from being noticed. Find somewhere a little more scenic and private to have coffee, breakfast and prepare for the day ahead. Look for a park or spot along the ocean or a river, perhaps.
#5 Be Aware of Your Surroundings
As you decide where you’ll stop for the night, take time to scan for things that might disrupt your sleep. Train tracks, truck entrances, construction zones all can be loud and disruptive. Look to be sure the spot isn’t blocking other streets or driveways too. A blaring horn demanding you move will definitely squelch your Z’s.
#6 One Time Only, Please
If you are staying in the same area or city for more than a couple of days, be sure to avoid raising suspicion by the locals or neighborhood residents and only staying at the same place once. Take time as you are exploring during the daylight to find alternatives for additional nights.
#7 Park Safe
If you aren’t sure about the neighborhood or part of town, it’s always best to park in places where you will feel safe. Find a police station, hospital, church or 24-hour gas station to park near.
#8 Blend In
Blend in with other cars and parking where you don’t stand out. Parking in the shadows will help you be less noticed, but it could also look a little creepy. Use your best judgment based on what else is happing in the area—keeping outside activities to a minimum as well. Brush your teeth and make dinner before settling into your spot for the night.
#9 Find A Flat Location
Blend in with other cars and parking where you don’t stand out. Parking in the shadows will help you be less noticed, but it could also look a little creepy. Use your best judgment based on what else is happing in the area—keeping outside activities to a minimum as well. Brush your teeth and make dinner before settling into your spot for the night.
#10 Prepare Ahead Of Time
It isn’t always possible, but the outcome will be better; if you have a place in mind to park overnight before you roll into an area. Nothing is worse than driving around in the dark, trying to read signs and get a sense of safety. There is a balance, though; it’s best not to arrive and park too early to avoid hiding in your vehicle longer than needed.
#11 Bonus Tip
Even if it’s a public street, we are still guests in our overnight spot. Please, be kind and leave without a trace.
Stealth Camping isn’t the last option, but it is a great way to save money and make miles after hours, driving in less traffic and outside of your exploring moments. And, who knows, you may need this information sometime while traveling!
These are just a few examples. Please let me know in the comments below if you found this article helpful.
Kirsti Out Wandering
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I am an influencer of optimism, positivity & love. My mantra, “Be where my feet are,” nothing more, nothing less. To me, it means living in the moment with curiosity, creativity, courage & compassion. You’ll find resources and stories primarily about subjects like travel, van living, exploring, yoga, and photography on these pages. By acting on my dreams and sharing my experiences, I hope you’ll be inspired to say YES, and live your happiest, best life. |
Follow along! Kirsti Out Wandering aspires to illustrate well-being in mind, body & spirit, giving unconditional love to self and others, and pursuing all of the wild possibilities life serves up while living full-time from a sprinter van.
She offers weekly inspiration and a monthly roundup filled with stories and tips on travel, exploring, van living, self-care, photography and being human.