Doesn’t it seem as though a spirit of violence has been unleashed worldwide over the past couple of years?? I am so sorry this happened to you. Prayers.
We are living in difficult times for sure with a whole new level of anger and aggression out there. Hoping that the vast majority who are kind and caring people will prevail. Safe travels x
Hi folks. I am a van lifer here in the U.S. and traveled across the nation from the East Coast to the West Coast. I have been fortunate to have positive experiences in my travels. There were a couple of places I stopped and planned to stay for the night but my "gut feeling" told me to move on. It's unfortunate there are assholes who want to destroy or steal property that belong to others out of jealousy or just to be mean. I am so sorry this happened to you and I fully understand hoe you feel being violated...especially In such a violent and destructive manner. Thank God you and your pets are safe. Don't let these assholes ruin your lives. Karma will repay them for their ignorance and stupidity. Continue to do what you love.
Thanks Alexander for your lovely message. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
I couldn't have said it any better. I am not a van lifer, but I wanted to share a similar message. I hope you can get back to the style of living after a time to reset your trust people again. I wish only the best life can bring to you.
@@Wizardinthewild hopefully this will never happen again but if anything does happen, God forbid, then I'd suggest calling the police before filming. Glad youre ok x
I'm absolutely disgusted that something like this can happen. We have built a bed that goes across our front seats for our grandchildren. It gave me chills just thinking of the possible outcomes of this despicable act. Glad you were both physically OK. Keep safe ,keep doing what your doing .
Hi Paul Sue and Baloo it doesn’t bear thinking about does it? The vandals had no idea who was in the van or whether they would be hurt. We are getting over it gradually. Have managed a few off grids since. ( had a great time on Arran) Obviously we feel more anxious than we did but are hoping it will get easier in time. Thanks for watching ❤️👍
You can take solace in the fact that those dirtbags own nothing, never will & will lead miserable existences. They're probably wasting away in prison. Where they belong.
In the end, our society cannot function without trust. We have to trust that the vast majority of our neighbours 'do unto others as they would have others do unto them'. Without trust, we are doomed. Obviously not "absolute trust" but reasonable trust that others don't wish us harm. It is for that reason that the hooligans who perpetrated this dastardly deed need to be hunted down and severely punished not simply in the hopes of modifying their future behaviour but also as a message to others in the hopes of discouraging such behaviour. All parents of kids still at home should take advantage of this incident to teach their children well.
Rather than letting this make you feel afraid you should feel empowered by it, your worst fear happened and you dealt with it. You dealt with the situation calmly and practically, you didn't collapse into helpless hysterics,got yourselves home and the damage has been fixed. You are strong and capable people and you proved to yourselves that you can deal with a frightening situation and come out intact. There is nothing left to fear now.
Thank you. An interesting view in things. I hadn’t thought about it like that. Very helpful. We were on autopilot somewhat but yes we copped with it 💪 thanks for your support. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
Think of how many times this didn't happen, it may never happen again, but if it does you will both handle it like trooper's , never let others stop you doing what you want (for every bad person, there are millions of good)
Yes. How unprepared they were. You should always rehearse such occurrences. And how do you go to any new place without being fully prepared for crime these days?
Can you put a motion sensor on your exterior lights? And a blinking red light on each side of the van...that will let hoodlums know they are being filmed, add cameras and a way to save events.
Once the windows are broken inside or outside is the same thing. This is the reason tool's are needed for self protection . Older people need better tools.
I happened to be scrolling TH-cam and saw this video. I'm so sorry you both went through this horrible ordeal. How scary. Some people are just evil. You're both innocent and were out having a great time and using your channel to bring joy to so many people. I'm grateful you both are okay. God Bless you and always keep you safe in Jesus Name Amen. May God also bless the people who helped you.
Thanks Ericka. Nice message. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
You're very welcome. I noticed quite a few people happened to see your video. There truly are alot of caring people. You can tell by their encouraging comments. It may take some time for you to get through this traumatic experience. God's protection, grace, peace, love, and healing be upon you both as you move forward.
It’s jealously maybe the are angry kids had it in for you because you have a nice van you have a lovely life but don’t give in Sorry for your experience
The same happened to us on our way through France to Calais. We stopped at a service station in the middle of the night and after an hour my wife woke me as she could hear rustling outside. They tried the doors, the lockers and even when we opened the curtains and shouted they were still there waiting for us to get out. I jumped into the drivers seat and pedalled it over the kerbs and away. When it's just the two of you in the middle of the night it is terrifying. We will only stay on proper sites now and never, ever stop over in a car park or service station. Just glad you're all ok and I think you were very brave getting out in the dark to inspect the damage.
Hi Antony. Your experience sounds terrifying and has clearly affected how you travel now. You know how scary it feels. To be honest we thought a tree had hit the van as the vandals threw 3 bricks at the same time making one horrendous bang. So Graham went out to look. Don’t know how we will feel if we ever go off grid again. Will certainly look carefully at our security and parking strategy! Safe travels x
I've never seen your channel before but it popped up on my feed. I'm so sorry this happened to you. I hope it won't put you off carrying on with your journeys and exploration. You've helpfully reminded me and others to be cautious always, everywhere. I send you my best wishes.
Thanks very much for your message. It’s sad isn’t it 😩. We are looking at CCTV and motion sensor lights. Also we will not park at this type of place again. Thanks for your support it really does help us. Take care yourself. 🐶🐶🚐🙏🧙♂️
12/10/22...THIS HAPPENS EVERYWHERE NOW B/C PPL HAVE NO RESPECT FOR ONE ANOTHER! AND FEWER POLICE + VERY LIBERAL DAs + judges.... GOD BLESS YOU! GLAD YOU WERE NOT HARMED or KILLED or VAN JACKED or ROBBED!
I’m 61. When I was in my 50s I was able to retire. I purchased a camper van and solo toured all round the USA through a Summer and an Autumn. I enjoyed my travels, met some very nice people, saw some incredible sights. But I did experience a few uncomfortable and/or disturbing situations. I just decided the risk wasn’t worth it to me so I got rid of my camper. I’m so sorry this has happened to you. Be safe and contented!
Thanks for your lovely message. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
Agreed but issue has been magnified by greedy Motorway Service Station owners with their 2 hour stop rule..then fines and costly parking charges therefore preventing decent folk from parking for say 6-8 hours overnight with generally increased safety...
Suran wrap in the future for anyone who needs a quick fix for window. It works. Literally wrap around the windows in circular without cutting all the way down. Keeping the tails on the inside. Tightly wrap. Two ply down. You can still see just distorted a little.
Being attacked is horrible and random and senseless. I had a similar experience years ago with my apartment being broken into. Even more upsetting than the items being taken, was the thought of these burglars rummaging through my personal stuff and space. It really shakes your confidence for sure. Thanks for sharing your experience.
In Ausie we have a tape we call it 100mph tape it’s grey and it’s good Back to your camping keep doing it you need to be parked up before it dark and maybe get a dog one that barks
My husband and I were considering investing in a camper, but after seeing all these stories over the past year I don’t think we’re quite well enough to take the risk. I’m sorry this happened but glad you weren’t harmed.
Oh Rebekah, I hope it doesn’t put you off. These things are extremely rare. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
Don't let your dreams be stopped by the risk. That is Luke avoiding driving because there are so many car accidents that happen. Sure there is a risk to encountering filth but van life is very rewarding and the freedom is something I cab only dream of. I plan to build a proper camper van oneday and live in it full time. Choosing the right location is important. Dark areas are a danger. Lit up areas like hardware store car parks will usually be safer.
I'm hearing stories like this more and more - and a lot of them are coming from the UK. I don't know if it's just my limited exposure to such things, but I am not hearing nearly as many stories coming from the US. I'm an ex-pat living in California, and it worries me greatly that England seems to be getting more and more violent. I am so sorry this happened to you. It sounded like they were going for a break in and scarpered when they heard you stir.
Hi. Thanks for taking the time to comment. We don’t really know if there’s a big trend towards this kind of thing in the UK. There are certainly many more campervans on the road here now, so I guess that could be behind any increase. There are also owners of vans who take liberties about where they park and how they leave a place. So maybe a motive there to dissuade people parking up. Pleased it doesn’t appear as bad where you are. Safe travels 😊👍
Sorry you had to go through this. In general, in the UK, vans have always been a target as scumbags try to steal tools. A lot of vanlifers are using converted vans that still look like trade vans, so that might explain a rise. In Europe, many people are against travellers, and they are going to the scary level of setting fire to vans as well as mobile homes. The difference across Europe is the number of sites you can stay on for about 5 euros a night, shower blocks, water, and waste disposal points. When I camp now, I only stop at sites.
This is my first video of yours that came up in my feed. I feel so terrible for what happened to the both of you. If you have loved traveling before this, don't let who ever did this to you take that away from you. Be happy and enjoy each other and make more memories together.
So nice Pam. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
Sorry to hear about your attack! I live in a little condo and last summer someone threw a big rock through my kitchen window and they did it to others in my area. Plus cars get broken into as well. So it doesn't matter if it's your hone on wheels or a sticks and brick, dumb people are everywhere. Please don't let this stop you from living your dream because I think it was just a random act of violence.
Hi Faith. Sorry to hear about what happened to you. It must have been so scary. Thanks too for your kind comments. We really appreciate them. We think it was random vandalism too. They probably didn’t want us in “their” carpark! Hoping it won’t spoil things for us going forward. Safe travels x
You're both so homey and lovely, it's like listening to an Aunt and Uncle telling stories of their adventures. I'm sorry this one was a bad experience, safe travels and thanks for the content.
Thanks Amor. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. Thanks again for commenting. All the best from uncle Graham 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
It can be difficult for the younger gen to understand that as we age we can feel less confident at being able to protect ourselves and our environment. I am glad things worked out. Keep safe out there.
Thank you Karla. I agree with you completely. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
@@elizabethapfelbaum1240 when it was reported to the police they did 2 things. Firstly they confirmed that they couldn’t proceed with investigating the crime as there wasn’t enough evidence. Secondly that they wouldn’t routinely attend for this sort of crime. I hope that helps your understanding. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
Apply some "Vehicle Safety/Security Film" to all side/rear windows. If someone wants to smash a window, it will still shatter but the glass will be held together by the film. Safe travels!
If you can, invest in cameras to insert in your van to take surveillance around your van when your parked and sleeping or even if your away from your van for a period of time. I am glad that the two of you are alright and there is nothing you did to cause this. It's the people that live in this world that do not respect nor value people, places, and property! Continue to thrive and be safe! ❤️🤗🥰
Thanks for your lovely message Terri. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
I really feel for you guys. The place this happened is just up the road from me and it is a lovely area. Take time to get over this and don’t make any rash decisions that you may later regret.
Hi Bobmob. Thanks for watching and commenting. It looked to be a really nice area. Infact we have been back since the vandalism and both agreed we would park there again if this hadn’t happened as there doesn’t seem to be anything wrong with the car park. Here’s the link showing our thoughts after the event when we went back. th-cam.com/video/fmXzGfuxsWA/w-d-xo.htmlsi=-_-GIvE4mldiAW1Z Safe travels 👍😊
This is my first time looking at your channel. I am so sorry this has happened to you. You seem like very wonderful people. The pups 🐶 are just adorable. Please Do Not allow this horrible experience keep you from enjoying yourselves and enjoying the camping experience. You are strong and have dealt with it properly. Stay safe and many prayers 🙏
What a lovely message. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
So sorry you had to go through this. What's scary is that people are buying land to camp on so they can leave city life, yet their storage cabinets, barns, etc. that they set up get broken into. At least you were able to bail and not look back. I can't even fathom why the vandals did this. Seems like anyone who has anything going for them is a potential target.
Yes it can be a bad scene these days if you park in a bad place which we did. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
Oh my!!! My husband and I love van traveling and have one coming up. 😢 He has done it longer than me. Your video still gives me pause. I do love your doggies, and I'm so glad they or yourselves did not get hurt!
Hello and thanks for your kind comment. All we can say, is carry on doing what you love. We did find it hard to get past this at first, and we are grateful that none of us were hurt. But we are getting back to parking up in the wild. Hope you get to enjoy some of our later videos as they show how we are moving on from this and the steps we’ve taken to feel safe. Look after yourselves too. 😊👍🚐
Sorry to hear what happened guys :(. It’s the very first video I’ve seen of yours and it came with that terrible incident. I hope you two are holding up strong 💪 those who are responsible are nothing more then scum bags making others lives miserable. Stay strong, chin up don’t let these fools get you down, take care - John
Thanks very much John. I hope it doesn’t put you off our video’s. We are looking at CCTV and motion sensor lights. Also we will not park at this type of place again. Thanks for your support it really does help us. Take care yourself. 🐶🐶🚐🙏🧙♂️
@@funkysouldancer1 well thanks for that. I hope you enjoy watching the back catalogue. I think we have improved over the time we have been doing it. 🙏🐶🐶🧙♂️🚐
We have been living in our motorhome for almost two years. If we could afford a home we would consider that now. But we can't. In the last two years we have seen a massive increase in van life and off grid camping. We have also seen increased aversion and hostility too by people and councils. I read one councillor calling us a scourge that contribute nothing and pay for nothing! This fuels peoples mis- understandings. We have been, because we are working there, on a camp site since Feb and this month we have off so we are now having nights off grid. We have noticed a much increased hostility to our parking off grid.We do have four cameras fitted but still every park up that we always used before has become less safe. Six, or nine months ago we could guarantee we were the only people parked up, now we vie with two or three others. We have been hassled by locals young and elderly. I understand why locals are getting annoyed in part. There are too many vans looking to park for free. We cannot afford camp sites ordinarily with living in it but this increase in van life and the hatred of it by communities is putting us all at risk. As for comfort insurance you were lucky. They wont even insure us if we park on the road!! So I am glad you got something out of them! They made my blood boil! I am sorry you went through this but I am hearing more and more incidents and it seems we are wanted off the road. They want their freedoms but don't want others to have theirs. You are right to be cautious now. Its not for the faint of heart this life style.
Hi Lizzy. Sorry to hear that parking has become harder for you. It’s sad if your lifestyle is causing so much more stress than it did before. And Through no fault of your own. We’ve noticed that we are seldom alone even when we park at this time of year. Scotland seems better than some other places. We always make a point of spending money in the local community when we park up by way of a thank you. Let’s hope that it all calms down again. Not holding our breath. Safe travels xx
If you look at whats been going on in the last few years, we've all been encouraged to hate each other by both the govt and the news media, all split into small groups by silly differences, we argue amongst ourselves and never look at the root cause of the issues we all share, and now energy prices are going mental and the cost of living has gone through the roof, is it coincidence or planned?
@@Wizardinthewild Scotland sounds a bettre bet for the moment then. When you get problems you may need to inform the local police, local councils and I would contact the local MP and further to that you may want to let the Government know about the issues you face by letter.
I don't see why anyone should care if you've found a way to live cheaper and not stealing or exploiting anyone. I do think a reason a lot of hostility has become more common is that bad people are also living in vans, cars, tents RVs and throw trash around, steal, etc. Some people who camp have also learned the passive aggressive trick of being bad neighbors so people move off and leave them to have a place to themselves.
@@collinsfriend1 You make a good point, one that leads me to a more depressing thought....... It's practically illegal to live off grid in this country, you couldn't just disappear onto a patch of land and generate your own electricity (for example), why is this? well I think if they let enough people do it, then others might follow, and the system of govt that we live with NEEDS compliance, it needs us to buy homes, pay our utility bills, pay our council tax etc.
Thank you Ruby. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
Screens on your windows guys. Plus no offence, but you come across as too nice and easy targets for thugs. 😮 please take extra precautions, the world has gone where we felt safe. And they complained about Enid Blyton being inappropriate. 😢😢😢. Safe travels, Louise Australia 🇦🇺.
That must gave been terrifying to have that happen, especially late at night! I live in America and this kind of thing happens all the time here. Many people have also vanished or been murdered while camping as well. Stay safe!
OMG that sounds horrendous. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
Just found you all. I see this occurred 3 months ago, happy to hear no one was injured. Some people cannot let other people be happy and are just miserable human beings. Listening to your voice shake, broke my heart. Bless you both. Seems you found some beautiful souls along the way to soften the blow a bit. Good you both have each other as well.
Thank you Amy. It was a shocker at the time. Sone people accused us of staging it. Don’t think we are that good at acting. 😩. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
So sorry this happened to you both! It is surely understandable that you are unsettled. I hope you heal from this soon and are able to enjoy life again. So unfair that others can wish strangers harm these days. My best wishes from New York State in the US. You did nothing wrong-they did!
Thank you so so much for your lovely message all the way from New York State. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
Hi Folks. Just heard about you from a "Life is too short" video comment. Good to meet you fellow adventurers! So sorry to hear of your attack. We are of a similar age and travel in our campervan in New Zealand. We used to wild camp most nights but had a couple of bad experiences that has changed our park up choices. We have heard dodgy sounding vehicles cruise by us, in the small hours once too often. One night at about 2am we heard gunshots not too far away ..and phoned the police. We now spend most nights in less risky places, like Motorcamps, NZMCA parks and Popular DOC campgrounds. We still do wild camp sometimes.. but it is now more worrying than before. This is so disappointing for us because we love camping wild and getting close to nature in NZ. The sad reality is, that a just a very few immature damaged people spoil this beautiful world for the rest of us. We are not sure if we should take these experiences as a warning and be more cautious.. or be brave and not let a very few limit us so much. We empathize with you and look forward to watching more of your videos! Cheers, Cliff.
Hi Cliff. Really pleased you got to hear about us via Life is too Short. They are great adventurers. You pose a question that we we are also asking ourselves. Do we continue doing what we most love ( with a degree of anxiety) or do we play it safe and park on camp sites? Since the incident with the van we have done a combination of things. Pub stops, camp sites, aires and off grid. We think we will also do a combination going forward. In areas we don’t know we will probably use sites. In places where we feel safe, like Scotland we will probably go off grid. It would be sad not to do the thing we most love ( being off grid) but feel that we must now proceed with caution and take a balanced view if we can. Have just completed another trip to Arran. So there will be more films from there in the future. So pleased you are enjoying the vlogs. Safe travels 👍😊
So sorry about your disruption of your feeling of safety. It goes to show that one is not safe ANYWHERE! I was burglarized in my own home and don’t really feel safe anywhere. All the best to you whatever you decide to do.
Pam that’s awful. Makes this crime seem far less significant 😩. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
Pleased you are both safe and Merlin is on the mend with his windows fixed and plan to sort the dent out. I’m sure it’s just a case of wrong place, wrong time rather than anything premeditated against yourselves personally. A mindless act of criminal damage for no reason. I sincerely hope you both find a path back to happiness in camping in Merlin, one step at a time and can in time heal the non-physical damage it’s caused you. You both must have been shattered but definitely the right thing to head off. Great that folks have helped too in getting you home and that Comfort have been great. Look after yourselves and I’m sure you will get your happy smiles back again soon. All our love, David & Rachel ❤
Thank you. Think you are right about wrong place, wrong time. Really not much we could do differently about where we parked up. ( other than not going off- grid anymore anywhere) it may change what we do. But it’s early days. Love to the 3 of you 🐶
Sadly a sign of the times and it will only get worse. Devastating for you both, I don’t think wild camping is worth the risk anymore, invest in the lighting etc as you obviously will, and when the shock subsides make a plan. I think long dark nights are for campsites, but only you can decide. Take care xx
Both of you need to be so kind to yourselves, surround yourself with close friends and family that love you. If necessary seek a good therapist to help you through this terrible ordeal. I can only imagine how difficult this must be. Take care.
Thanks so much Jamie. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
What an awful thing to happen to such a lovely couple. I sincerely hope that you both get over it very soon. Don't let them win. Please consider coming to France in Merlin where you'll experience wonderful welcoming Aires de Camping Car in safety.
Sounds really tempting right now I can tell you! We often hear how good France is for camping. We are hoping to make it to Europe at some point in the future. Fingers crossed. 🤞Safe travels x
Glad you're okay and no one was hurt other than tthe damage to your van. Thankfully you were relatively close to home. I just saw a video from the other day where another person had their van attacked while he was asleep. The company who his insurance company told him to contact for the repair had to order the replacement window so they fitted with a piece of thick plexiglass which made it safe for them to legally drive and use their camper van because you couldn't tell it wasn't a regular car window. It made me think that it might be wise to have thinner pieces of plexiglass cut to fit each window on the inside of the van which would prevent the glass from breaking or at least keep any glass from getting inside the van if something ever broke the window again. You could attach weather stripping on the edge of each piece of plexiglass to make it secure while in place. I would attach tabs on the bottom edge that would help you remove it when necessary I would add some security cameras around the outside of the van that have the ability to film/let you see with night vision 360 degrees around the van. I have heard of some that are triggered by motion sensors. Another safety tip is to have more lights mounted to the outside of the van similar to the one above the sliding door which you can turn on with the press of a button or are triggered by motion sensors just like the cameras because it will not only scare off the person or people who are trying to break in or damage the van and possibly record what they look like and what their vehicle looked like and even better a license plate number which would help the police track them down. If you don't have a security system on your van I would highly suggest you have one installed asap. All of these things would help you to feel safe again. Many of the vehicle security systems trigger the car horn or another sound to go off whenever it system is triggered. You can also trigger it to go off by pressing a button on your key fob which would also help scare off whoever is trying to break in or damage the van. Other things to think about keeping in the van or with you while out exploring are: A tazzer, an air gun (fog horn) pepper spray and or bear spray. Always park facing the exit for wherever you are parked so that you can drive off immediately if needed because you never know what they might do if confronted. My parents took of us children camping each summer. It didn't matter if you were a newborn (the youngest baby was around 2 months old the first time they went camping. As the years went on eventually there were7 children and a dog in the family van. My parents had a tent trailer that had a queen sized bed on top of the trailer and they had a zip on extension room where the children slept on camping cots that you could stack like bunkbeds and we each had a sleeping bag. The baby slept in a portable crib and the next youngest slept on a cot in the room with our parents to make it easier to care for them if needed during the night. There were 2 large locking storage compartments on each side of the trailer which allowed them to pack everything we would need on our month long camping trips. Dad had reconfigured a boat refrigerator so that it could run off of an extremely large extra battery he added to the family vehicle that charged it while the car was on and it would run the refrigerator for up to a week without the car running. Eventually Dad upgraded to a popup camper trailer that slept 8 and had a fresh water tank, A sink, stove, heater, fan, small dorm size refrigerator and more. The sides on the bottom were metal covered with a fiberglass skin and the top was fiberglass panels that folded in and laid flat underneath the roof when packed up. There were 2 Queen beds that slid out on either end and had supports that got inserted into some slots under the bed and on the end of the trailer. It had many windows that had bug screens to allow fresh air in and kept out any bad weather. Because we camped in bear country we didn't eat or cook any food in the camper. Which was fine because we had a really good setup for cooking and cleaning up by the picnic table and campfire/grill. We had a series of canopies that we setup which kept us dry should it rain or any other bad weather situations. We could easily move from the tent or camper to the picnic table and our camp kitchen without getting wet and muddy which was amazing with the number of people on the various trips. Very different time from now. We created some amazing memories that we still talk about when we get together.
Aw bless you for taking the time to write this reply ❤️. Your camping experiences sound absolutely incredible! You really thought your adventures through so carefully and what lovely memories to treasure forever. As we are in the uk many of the things you use to defend yourself are illegal here. But we do now have cameras with bright lights on. We leave the van facing the exit and ready to drive and we do have a pretty decent alarm system. Luckily no bears here so it’s safe to cook in our camper 😉Sure we will get back to normal in time. Safe travels to you 😊👍🧙♀️
I have just recently watched your vlog when your window was broken, I don't want you to worry and keep going about the window, it may never happen again you just have to get on with your life. When you ride a bike and you fall off you have to get straight back on it and ride it, please don't let this spoil your van enjoyment get back out there and don't let the vandals win it can happen anywhere to anyone.
Thanks Trevor. A sensible approach. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
Thank you. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
So sorry to hear of your bad experience. Glad you are ok. My Wife and I no longer wild camp as we have heard of other incidents like yours. We try to find cl s and sites near beauty spots and old railway walks. The camper stays on site and we get peace of mind when we return. There is also security at night.We still think the small loss of freedom is a small price to pay for safety.Try to holiday differently and you may find that you like it that way.Enjoy yourselves in future.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts. We hadn’t heard of any cases of this until now. Totally get the peace of mind by being on a site. We have only recently ( past 2 years) gone off grid. We had a caravan and MH before and always stayed on sites. Think we may be doing more of that in future though it’s hard to know for sure right now. Safe travels x
@@warren9815 thanks Warren. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
@@warren9815 We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
Yes indeed. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
@@Wizardinthewild I can imagine how scary that was, I was driving with my car and little dog from Ireland ⛴️ ferry to France and then to Germany. I slept in the car at big places like the petrol stations on the motorway. Luckily nobody did scar me but I would have freaked out certainly. Good luck for the future 🙏👍
This was clearly horrific. You are very blessed to have each other. I drove a 28 foot camper van for a couple years in England and Ireland...sometimes alone with a little dog, and sometimes with my young teenage sons I had to battle fear a lot and in the end I sold it. Am tempted at 65 to buy again but these scary moments really give pause for thought ♡
Hi Angie. Your adventures in your camper with your little dog and children sound incredible. and how amazing that you did it even though you were scared. ❤️ there are quite a few solo travellers out there. Some stick to sites which may be a bit safer. What happened to us is mercifully quite rare. Really hope you can go for it if it’s what you dream about. Maybe get a bigger dog to share your travels with? Safe travels x
@@Wizardinthewild i now have an Irish Red Setter who barks loudly but would likely lick an intruder to death I was camping alone in a field by a lake for a week to do some writing and de stress I noticed I had been being observed by some shady looking characters I prayed with all my heart to God when I could not sleep one night for fear I felt a still, small voice say Look out of the window I saw I literally saw an angel probably 22 foot tall standing guard And God reminded me again, Fear Not ♡
Thanks again Desiree. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
I live in France and the UK is a different world to me. You could not pay me to take my camping car there, Sorry. Come to France what you save on camp site fees it will pay for the crossing. All the best to you guys. thank you for sharing.
That’s not a bad shout actually. It is something we have been thinking about. We were of the opinion there is much to see in the uk which is true. This location was just a transit stop. Which we wish we hadn’t used. Thanks fir your message. 🐶🐶🚐🙏🧙♂️
Susan. Adrenaline did that. Not my wisest move. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
Love to you. I think this was a random act of vandalism. No fault of yours at all. I just hope you can find a way of getting back the joy your adventures were giving you. You are still in shock, take some time and stay safe xxxx
Thank you very much Libalyff. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
If you give up, the thugs have won! It is healing to talk about bad experiences. Take time to recover and then, hit the road. My prayers are with you. Please keep the channel going. You are lovely people.
Thanks Henna. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
I am so sorry y'all had to go through something like that. But please don't let someone else's stupidity stop you from doing what you love. God bless and may you have safe travels.
Hi Bridgette. Thank you for your lovely comment. Perhaps you may like to check out our other vlogs after the attack to see how we have got on and measures taken to try and prevent this happening again. 👍❤️😊🚐
I'm so sorry you had this experience and that it shook your sense of personal safety. I can see how you'd be in a state of shock for a bit as it sinks in that it really did happen and the reality of what could have happened. It was very likely it was mis-directed teenagers out looking for trouble. I hope you're able to regain your sense of safety so you can keep traveling. Do by all means leave a review on that car park so others know not to park there. Thank you for sharing your experience. I wish you peace and renewed hope.
Thanks very much Susan. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
My first time watching! So sorry to hear! …omg! This has been a good education for me, as a widow, and contemplating van life! Thank you! Real eye opener, as there are angry, desperate souls rampant, everywhere, more so then ever! Be safe! Love your doggies!
@@Wizardinthewild no worries…you did not put me off! I already realized driving a van these days alone, is not a good idea! I am in the U.S. ….So stay safe! Best to be not too much off the grid …unless in a large parking area? 🌿🙏
I carry winter window film that heat shrinks onto a window or windshield for a very tight fit. We have huge theft of catalytic converters here in the US. Take them while we sleep. Lately vans and campers themselves are way up. So sorry this happened to you.
What a horrible thing to happen. As Daivid said below, wrong place, wrong time and not your fault in any way. These things just take time and hopefully in time this week will be a distant memory in amongst all the other lovely trips. Thank you for being strong enough to share this. Stay strong.
Hi Chris. Thanks for your kind comment. Really hope you are right. It does change things. But really hope we can eventually get back out there and enjoy our camper as we once did. X
You did nothing wrong. In fact, it sounds like a perfect trip. It’s just, there’s evil people out there. I have PTSD too, the result of an evil person that I dealt with in the military. I’m so happy that you two are fine and your doggies are fine. My home is my safe place. I don’t go out very often. I hope you can find a way. Still enjoy your times out on the road. Your van is beautiful. Take care, and I will be praying for all four of you.
Thank you Sue. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
Has never happened to us in 20years BUT we always stay on sites ....Mostly the 2 majors. I have friends who wild camp and have never had problems but I always felt safe sleeping and leaving the van on a site. This is horrible we all love our vans and seeing them attacked for no reason is very unsettling.
Thanks Walkabout. I think this sort of attack is mercifully quite rare. It’s been helpful hearing that the wider area where we stayed has its issues even though the car park looked ok. If we ever go off grid again it will be in very remote places where vandals can’t be bothered to go. Safe travels x
Having just found your youtube channel, i was very saddened to hear of the problems you had. I wish you both well, and hope that you can continue wild camping eventually. Its so sad what some people do to others. All the best and take good care.
Hi Craig. Thanks for your comments. We are not exactly sure what we are going to do but we will start with safer things and see how we go. Maybe pub stops or CL’s. Thanks so much for your support 🐶🐶🧙♂️🚐🙏
We have pulled our caravan in all but one state in the USA mainland and touch wood never had a problem like you had. Keep your chin up and safe journey.
Thanks George. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
Sorry to hear about your experience . Overnight near a public road not too remote from built up area has to be more risky than a designated campsite or a remote spot in the wilds .
Thanks very much. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
Martin thank you for your lovely message. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
What a beautiful genuine loving couple . Just glad you both and the dogs are OK. Karma will come to those scummy idiots. Safe travels hope to meet you on the road one day 😊😊
Hi Malcolm. Thank you for watching and commenting❤️ we felt very lucky that it was only the van that got damaged. It could have been much worse. It’s taken a bit of getting over, but we made the decision that we wouldn’t let it stop us. Safe travels ❤️👍😊
Graham & Ellie, I am so pleased your both safe and Merlin is being repaired. Mindless arseholes who I'm sure we would all like 5 minutes with. I totally understand how you feel, several years ago we were woken up by a loud bang and security lights coming on, it was the police chasing a car thief across our garden which took us ages to recover from and nothing like what you have experienced. I sincerely hope this doesn't stop you enjoying Merlin, probably worth sleeping in him on the drive for a bit then progress to CL's and build your confidence up. I would also write the local papers with photographs; I'm sure Altringham will have a free rag that will be willing to help and who knows you might just catch the Bastards. Stay safe, lots of love. Cheers K.
Hi Karlos. Thanks for your kind comments and some sound advice there. Sleeping on the drive sounds like a great idea. We have CCTV on the house, so will feel quite a bit safer. It will be like lockdown van life revisited 😉. Also quite like the idea of writing to the papers. We contacted Manchester police, but not much for them to go on unfortunately. Just hope it doesn’t happen to anyone else. These things are very scary. The van can be fixed, we can try to be logical in our thoughts, but the trauma it leaves behind is quite different. Any sudden or unexpected noise is making us quite jumpy ! Take care x
Oh my, I’m so sorry this happened to you. It’s very helpful to talk it out like you’re doing. For now, fix the van, install motion sensors/lights on the outside, and give yourself time to heal. Good luck putting this behind you. Greetings from California, USA.
Hi Janet in California. Thank you. It’s a balancing act between talking it out and getting past it. We’ve ordered some extra security. So made a start. 👍safe travels x
My parents got gassed via the air vent. The intruders then forced the door and robbed them while they were unconscious, they lost money, cards, documents and were unwell from gassing. That night other campers were also robbed via the same methods. My parents survived the other campers didn't survive the gassing. You can take all the safe precautions but camping does remain a risk, no doubt campers are vulnerable. Your camper van can be mended, your both shaken but your together and not hurt. Take all the safe precautions it's all you can do in the future if your to continue. x
Oh Gillian that’s so awful. What a sad, sad story and dreadful that those poor people should be murdered in that way too. Pleased your parents survived🙏. Nothing is 100 safe. Life is a risk. You’ve explained that well. We have ordered cameras/ lights. Hoping that will help us to stay safe 🤞safe travels x
Quite understand why you are dubious Colin. We always used sites until we got Merlin. Then got quite taken with the freedom of being able to park up ( legally) in beautiful places. Don’t know if we will ever feel the same again …
Thanks very much. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
I’m so sorry you have both had this horrible thing happened to you…. Couple of suggestions when wild camping (don’t give up), I think camping in or near cities can be iffy, housing estates are often situated on the outskirts , perhaps book sites in advance. You know the answers yourselves, maybe alarm, cameras and other safety equipment, try not to arrive after dark and be kind to yourselves this was not your fault. Please don’t give up, this will take a while to get over, you are in shock,. you two lovely people are strong, we know you will conquer your worries with some small changes. All the very best.
Yeah you are right. This location was just a transit stop. Camping near cities will be a no no in the future. Thanks fir your support and hopefully we will get back to it in sone firm or other. 🙏🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️
I'm relatively new to motorhomes , but i've been a trucker for 39 years . I've never stopped near anything that even vaguely resembles anything like a town , let alone a city . As a trucker , my driving hours are limited by law , so faced with this prospect , i would always plan around that , choosing motorway services if need be . Though i no longer cab rat now , i did tramp for years , all over the country , and with a variety of different cargo's , never had any issues , though i knew of other drivers who did . There always was a certain amount of animosity directed at caravans , but my feeling is now , this has changed . I first noticed it , following the Brexit referendum , and it has been progressively growing since . People seem to have changed , become less tolerant , they drive like lunatics , road rage abounds , and heaven forbid you should happen to drive something unusual that holds them up . Motorhome , and caravaners are on holiday , their general attitude is what's the rush . The problem is they are holding other people up , who are not on holiday , and they forget that , so really it's an own goal . Tv programs such as top gear , latched onto this , and worked it for ratings , and the result is what we have now . With my motorhome , i'm more guarded where i stop . I have used motorway services , but when i wild , it really is wild . I drive the thing like my heavy , often having traffic , hold me up , but i'm still tarred with the same brush . So what of the future , well that's already well in hand . Through means beyond my control , the original use for my motorhome has changed , ultimately meaning it will be used less . Green issues mean running it , will cost more in the future , forcing my original retirement plans to change , so now with the finance almost in place , a change of track is imminent .
@@mickey1299 only just spotted this reply. Sorry it’s taken so long! You make some very good points and have had a lot of experience too. Usually our off grid Parkups are much more remote. Unfortunately this time things conspired against us timing wise and we didn’t have quite the same options as usual. The good reviews for the site didn’t help either as lulled us into a false sense of security. We’ve had caravans and also been annoyed by caravans when stuck behind them. Graham always tries to let traffic past when necessary or keeps up with the flow. Trouble is, people make judgements don’t they? Even if you’re the sensible one. Hope you enjoy your retirement when you have put your plans into action. Safe travels x
My heart goes out for you both really sad hope you can find away past this we was thinking of doing off grid as we are newbies to motorhomeing certainly makes you think twice just glad you both and dogs are ok
Thank you Ian. We have subsequently started Wildcamping again. That attack was last November and we are moving on from it. We are about to publish our latest trip of visiting the Isle of Arran again where we do further wild camps. Thanks again for your kind message Ian. 🐶🐶🙏🚐🧙♂️
What a tragic thing to hear, and only yesterday came upon another video of a couple, with their kids having their camper being disturbed at 1am in Falkirk, Scotland by youths knocking on the side, very scary, but interesting how both these events happening in the UK.
Hi Janet. Thanks for watching. Very sad and scary when these things happen. Must have been so worrying with children in the van Thankfully we are getting back to normal. We’ve done a few vlogs showing how we’ve improved our security since this happened if you are interested. Safe travels 😊👍
@@Wizardinthewild Thanks for reply and will watch further as sounds reassuring. Hopefully I am going to start campervan life soon, but I am alone (middle aged female) and wonder if I can find some nice farmer who can allow me to park a while as I am hoping to move to Wales from West Sussex and think camper van would help me transition before buying a property.
This is my first time visiting with you folks. Random unprovoked senseless violence is bound to frighten anyone. It angers me that this happened to you. You seem like such lovely people. I'll be curious to see what you decide going forward. In the meantime, God bless.
Thank you for your kind message Jim. We are about to start our second Isle of Arran series where we do wild camp. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
How awful totally shocking that people have done this. Really hope you can pick yourselves up when you are ready as i know how much you enjoy your trips. Thinking of you ❤ xx
Thank you Jenni. Really appreciate your kind comments. We are ok physically thank goodness and the van can be repaired. May take us a bit longer to feel safe. But we will get there xx
So sorry that you’ve both gone through this, it’s awful. This is why we have not managed to wildcamp yet, I wouldn’t sleep as I’m a worrier at the best of times. Hope it doesn’t put you off doing what you enjoy.
Thanks Kevin. I think we will also be worriers now. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
I’m sorry you experienced this. People just have no moral code. Unkindness, theft, selfishness…..it’s so awful. Get an alarm system, you can set off to scare people away. Hugs to you both.
Thank you. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
Watching from New Zealand. This problem is everywhere, even here not just in the UK. You are good people and didn't do anything wrong, don't blame yourselves for making a decision to park there for the night. Who would be expecting anything like that to happen, no one would. Do not let this one incident deter you from doing what you both enjoy doing. I would just be a bit more selective in where i parked up in future. We feel for you. Bob n Lina. NZ.
Thanks so much Bob and Lina. Good to hear from you. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
Tina it was an awful drive home 😩. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
So sorry for you both. Hearing your story made my blood boil. Its great how you both handled a horrible situation. Stay strong and best of luck to you.
Thank Ross. It wasn’t easy at the time. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
This is the first video of yours ive ever watched and I am so sorry you went through that. I am not a Brit but I have heard things about manchester perhaps it wasn't the wild camping choice but just the city area you were in. I hope this doesnt stop you from doing what you love take your time to heal from it and continue on. I mean honestly anything can happen anywhere at anytime it doesnt have to be an isolated place or at night if someone really wants to harm others or scare others they will do it anywhere anytime. Unfortunately thats just the state of this world now.
Thanks so much for your supportive message. Yeah I think our mistake was the area. We will be more careful in future. Semi Rural car parks like that will not be on our menu anymore. Messages like yours are helping us so thanks very much. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
You are both lovely people I am so sorry Be cautious. Think it through, and whatever you decide, dont let those evil people take away your joy. You have a right to enjoy your life, whatever you decide.Lots of love.
Thanks fir your kind message Michelle. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
The chances of this happing is so remote, what’s even more impossible is this happening again! I wish you both my warm wishes and hope you’s find comfort in enjoying your future adventures in safety…Warm wishes from Ben
Thanks very much Ben. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
What a terrible thing you’ve experienced. It’s very brave of you to relive it on the vlog for other vanners and interested people. Glad you are all physically ok. Thinking and praying for you as you deal with the horrible consequences to yourselves and Merlin. Trust time and the love you will receive from viewers will help you xx
Hi Stephen. You and everyone else have been so supportive. Thank you! It really does restore our faith in humanity. Your kindness is really appreciated. We felt it was very important to share this. If it helps just one other person to keep safe on their travels, then it will have been worth it. We will get there x
Thanks for your kind words Carol. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
I hope that you will get to do more travels as I have just disordered your channel with this video. I am glad you are all safe and I hope you will always be safe. Random acts of violence can happen anywhere because of people's decisions to do wrong. Know where you are at and do what you can to be safe. Please don't let these guys win. It may take you a bit to even go on a trip, but I do believe that you should.
Hi Beth we do plan to get back out there with added security. Off grid May take a little longer though. Hope you enjoy the channel and thanks for watching. Safe travels x
I am so shocked at what you have both been through, a very scary moment no doubt. I hope you make the right decision for both of you regarding the future, and I would love to see you continue your travels. There are some evil people out there who try to intimidate us and rule our lives. But life is for living! please make the most of it. Take care. Bazza
Thanks so much for your kind words Bazza. We certainly did feel intimidated! But you are right. We can’t let people like them destroy what is so precious . Our freedom. Otherwise they win don’t they?
Thank you Clare. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
That’s the truth Edward. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
Thanks Elaine. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
This is shocking! My heart goes out to both of you, you are such a lovely couple, and motor homes are expensive. I hope this never happens again. Don’t let those yobs spoil your adventures. There’s a video online about a man who slept in his van and someone smashed his window grabbed his work bag and drove off. He is a long distance lorry driver. To cut to the point. He had to work and when he returned his friend had fitted a temp perspex window for him until he could get a replacement. It might be a good idea to carry some perspex replacement windows just incase it happens again. We gave up caravanning because after covid we noticed that a lot more people were not sticking to the rules. Parks were becoming rowdy with a lot of partying and heavy drinking and kids running riot. If we complained we were treated like we were the problem. I miss our caravan so don’t let this put you off. It doesn’t help that parks are becoming very expensive. It might be a good idea to install CTV so that you can at least see outside your motorhome and capture any incidents. All the best to both of you and your furry babies.❤
Hi, Thank you so much for watching and for taking the time to write such a lovely comment ❤️. We heard about that lorry driver too. Must have been terrifying. So sad to hear that you have given up your caravan. To be fair, we have found evidence of the same thing post-Covid. Prices have gone up a lot on sites (all year round), they can be very noisy/busy, and there are far more people out there who don’t know how to treat the countryside. Just hope it’s a phase that comes to an end. Finger’s crossed 🤞 We are continuing with our adventures and hope that you can follow them as they include what we have done to keep safer after the vandalism to Merlin. Our current Outer Hebrides trip has done much to restore our faith in humankind. ❤️ Happy New Year to you! ❤️👍😊🚐🥳
It is awful that people cannot just live their lives and nobody bother them, so sad this happened. I swear people are turning into evil sociopaths by the day, the world is getting crazier, good luck, take care and God Bless❤️❤️🙏🙏✝️🌹
Sadly Marion I think you are right. Messages like this are helping us. I suspect that in future we will be more careful about where we park. Also looking at motion sensor lights and CCTV. Thanks again. Take care 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
Thanks very much Kathy. It wasn’t our best day ! We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
Thank you Katrina. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
Thanks David. Glad you found our channel but sorry to shock you 😩. Messages such as yours are definitely helping us. We are overwhelmed by the support we have had by lovely people like you. It does help us. 🙏. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️ xx
Hi Haydock. What a lovely, kind message ❤️ Thank you for watching. Hope you will stick with us and see how we are doing now. You can’t let things like this stop you from doing what you love can you? Safe travels 😊👍🙏x
So sorry to hear about your incident. There are some mindless people out there, most of their actions come from jealousy. Don’t let these people stop what you love doing. Give it some time. I wish you both well. Barry
Thank you Barry. We are overwhelmed by the absolutely wonderful messages. It is helping for sure and slowly we are beginning to feel better about. Can almost feel we may have the strength to carry in in some form. So thank you 🙏. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️xx
Hi Julie. Thank you for your support for our channel. It’s this kind of support that really helps us. Especially when faced with a challenge such as this! Must admit that at the time we wondered if it was all worth it. Hope you enjoy some of our (much happier) vlogs 😊x
Doesn’t it seem as though a spirit of violence has been unleashed worldwide over the past couple of years?? I am so sorry this happened to you. Prayers.
We are living in difficult times for sure with a whole new level of anger and aggression out there. Hoping that the vast majority who are kind and caring people will prevail. Safe travels x
Here in the States, the violence seems state-sanctioned to some extent.
there is a book out there called the biology of aggresion, written for nato, practiced on you
Yes
@@utubewillyman Let's cut to the chase ... the liberal run sh* holes bave become very dangerous cesspools.
Hi folks. I am a van lifer here in the U.S. and traveled across the nation from the East Coast to the West Coast. I have been fortunate to have positive experiences in my travels. There were a couple of places I stopped and planned to stay for the night but my "gut feeling" told me to move on. It's unfortunate there are assholes who want to destroy or steal property that belong to others out of jealousy or just to be mean. I am so sorry this happened to you and I fully understand hoe you feel being violated...especially In such a violent and destructive manner. Thank God you and your pets are safe. Don't let these assholes ruin your lives. Karma will repay them for their ignorance and stupidity. Continue to do what you love.
Thanks Alexander for your lovely message. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
I couldn't have said it any better. I am not a van lifer, but I wanted to share a similar message. I hope you can get back to the style of living after a time to reset your trust people again. I wish only the best life can bring to you.
@@Wizardinthewild hopefully this will never happen again but if anything does happen, God forbid, then I'd suggest calling the police before filming. Glad youre ok x
@@janetenold4803 thanks so much Janet. 🐶🐶🧙♂️🙏👍🚐
I'm absolutely disgusted that something like this can happen.
We have built a bed that goes across our front seats for our grandchildren. It gave me chills just thinking of the possible outcomes of this despicable act.
Glad you were both physically OK.
Keep safe ,keep doing what your doing .
Hi Paul Sue and Baloo it doesn’t bear thinking about does it? The vandals had no idea who was in the van or whether they would be hurt. We are getting over it gradually. Have managed a few off grids since. ( had a great time on Arran) Obviously we feel more anxious than we did but are hoping it will get easier in time. Thanks for watching ❤️👍
You can take solace in the fact that those dirtbags own nothing, never will & will lead miserable existences. They're probably wasting away in prison. Where they belong.
Thank goodness they did not wait for you to get out & attacked you….
In the end, our society cannot function without trust. We have to trust that the vast majority of our neighbours 'do unto others as they would have others do unto them'. Without trust, we are doomed. Obviously not "absolute trust" but reasonable trust that others don't wish us harm. It is for that reason that the hooligans who perpetrated this dastardly deed need to be hunted down and severely punished not simply in the hopes of modifying their future behaviour but also as a message to others in the hopes of discouraging such behaviour. All parents of kids still at home should take advantage of this incident to teach their children well.
I dont think i would want my grandchildren sleeping in that position. Maybe ok on a proper site. Easy pickings. 😢
Rather than letting this make you feel afraid you should feel empowered by it, your worst fear happened and you dealt with it. You dealt with the situation calmly and practically, you didn't collapse into helpless hysterics,got yourselves home and the damage has been fixed. You are strong and capable people and you proved to yourselves that you can deal with a frightening situation and come out intact. There is nothing left to fear now.
Thank you. An interesting view in things. I hadn’t thought about it like that. Very helpful. We were on autopilot somewhat but yes we copped with it 💪 thanks for your support.
🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
So why is my comment not showing up? Did it offend you
@@kenj.8897 not sure KenJ. We haven’t deleted or held any comment from you. When did you post it approximately?
Think of how many times this didn't happen, it may never happen again, but if it does you will both handle it like trooper's , never let others stop you doing what you want (for every bad person, there are millions of good)
@@parsnip7349 thank you. Very true. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
It was kinda of dangerous going outside to check out what happened. There could have been someone hiding out ready to attack. So glad your both safe.
Nancy. Yeah adrenaline does do that. Wasn’t my best move. Luckily the bullying cowards were well up the road in their car. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
Yes. How unprepared they were. You should always rehearse such occurrences. And how do you go to any new place without being fully prepared for crime these days?
Can you put a motion sensor on your exterior lights? And a blinking red light on each side of the van...that will let hoodlums know they are being filmed, add cameras and a way to save events.
Once the windows are broken inside or outside is the same thing. This is the reason tool's are needed for self protection . Older people need better tools.
@@c.m.303 Defeating the bleeding obvious, mush. Think, before ya open ya trap !!
I happened to be scrolling TH-cam and saw this video. I'm so sorry you both went through this horrible ordeal. How scary. Some people are just evil. You're both innocent and were out having a great time and using your channel to bring joy to so many people.
I'm grateful you both are okay. God Bless you and always keep you safe in Jesus Name Amen. May God also bless the people who helped you.
Thanks Ericka. Nice message. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
You're very welcome.
I noticed quite a few people happened to see your video. There truly are alot of caring people. You can tell by their encouraging comments.
It may take some time for you to get through this traumatic experience. God's protection, grace, peace, love, and healing be upon you both as you move forward.
Such a pity .you lose your trust in human nature sometimes seems to be no peace anywhere Thank God for good people ❤
It’s jealously maybe the are angry kids had it in for you because you have a nice van you have a lovely life but don’t give in Sorry for your experience
The same happened to us on our way through France to Calais. We stopped at a service station in the middle of the night and after an hour my wife woke me as she could hear rustling outside. They tried the doors, the lockers and even when we opened the curtains and shouted they were still there waiting for us to get out. I jumped into the drivers seat and pedalled it over the kerbs and away. When it's just the two of you in the middle of the night it is terrifying. We will only stay on proper sites now and never, ever stop over in a car park or service station. Just glad you're all ok and I think you were very brave getting out in the dark to inspect the damage.
Hi Antony. Your experience sounds terrifying and has clearly affected how you travel now. You know how scary it feels. To be honest we thought a tree had hit the van as the vandals threw 3 bricks at the same time making one horrendous bang. So Graham went out to look. Don’t know how we will feel if we ever go off grid again. Will certainly look carefully at our security and parking strategy! Safe travels x
I know it's not legal in some countries but I carry a handgun... Refuse to be a victim!
Oh, my. Please, folks be careful. Very scary. God bless you, all who travel.
NEVER GO Anywhere WITHOUT a gun. If they broke in what would you have done? At least you would have had a fighting Chance
I am glad you guys are okay and got away safely. I hope that you will always be safe on your travels.
I've never seen your channel before but it popped up on my feed. I'm so sorry this happened to you. I hope it won't put you off carrying on with your journeys and exploration. You've helpfully reminded me and others to be cautious always, everywhere. I send you my best wishes.
Thanks very much for your message. It’s sad isn’t it 😩. We are looking at CCTV and motion sensor lights. Also we will not park at this type of place again. Thanks for your support it really does help us. Take care yourself. 🐶🐶🚐🙏🧙♂️
@@Wizardinthewild I have not watched you before either. You popped up on my post also. I will go back and look at some of your better days.
@@gracierose3076 thank you so much for your support. Brilliant that you want to follow our happier days too It means the world ❤️🙏
12/10/22...THIS HAPPENS EVERYWHERE NOW B/C PPL HAVE NO RESPECT FOR ONE ANOTHER!
AND FEWER POLICE + VERY LIBERAL DAs + judges....
GOD BLESS YOU! GLAD YOU WERE NOT HARMED or KILLED or VAN JACKED or ROBBED!
I’m 61. When I was in my 50s I was able to retire. I purchased a camper van and solo toured all round the USA through a Summer and an Autumn. I enjoyed my travels, met some very nice people, saw some incredible sights. But I did experience a few uncomfortable and/or disturbing situations. I just decided the risk wasn’t worth it to me so I got rid of my camper.
I’m so sorry this has happened to you. Be safe and contented!
Thanks for your lovely message. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
Glad your ok, we never wild camp now, we just can’t sleep anymore. The campsite fees and regulations are well worth it in our opinion.
Beginning to look that way to us as well Bob. Thanks for your thoughts🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
Agreed but issue has been magnified by greedy Motorway Service Station owners with their 2 hour stop rule..then fines and costly parking charges therefore preventing decent folk from parking for say 6-8 hours overnight with generally increased safety...
Suran wrap in the future for anyone who needs a quick fix for window. It works. Literally wrap around the windows in circular without cutting all the way down. Keeping the tails on the inside. Tightly wrap. Two ply down. You can still see just distorted a little.
Hi Melissa thank you so much ❤️guess what we carry with us now! It’s not just for sandwiches 😉safe travels x😊❤️
Being attacked is horrible and random and senseless. I had a similar experience years ago with my apartment being broken into. Even more upsetting than the items being taken, was the thought of these burglars rummaging through my personal stuff and space. It really shakes your confidence for sure. Thanks for sharing your experience.
That’s terrible Lana. So sorry to hear that. Awful story. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
Yes, this type of thing can happen anywhere.
In Ausie we have a tape we call it 100mph tape it’s grey and it’s good
Back to your camping keep doing it you need to be parked up before it dark and maybe get a dog one that barks
My husband and I were considering investing in a camper, but after seeing all these stories over the past year I don’t think we’re quite well enough to take the risk. I’m sorry this happened but glad you weren’t harmed.
Oh Rebekah, I hope it doesn’t put you off. These things are extremely rare. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
Don't let your dreams be stopped by the risk. That is Luke avoiding driving because there are so many car accidents that happen. Sure there is a risk to encountering filth but van life is very rewarding and the freedom is something I cab only dream of. I plan to build a proper camper van oneday and live in it full time. Choosing the right location is important. Dark areas are a danger. Lit up areas like hardware store car parks will usually be safer.
I have traveled by motorhome for 35 plus years.
My only unease has been in the UK, never disturb.
Oh please.ive been on the road alone for 30 years.stay home
Don’t let this keep you from your plans.
I'm hearing stories like this more and more - and a lot of them are coming from the UK. I don't know if it's just my limited exposure to such things, but I am not hearing nearly as many stories coming from the US. I'm an ex-pat living in California, and it worries me greatly that England seems to be getting more and more violent. I am so sorry this happened to you. It sounded like they were going for a break in and scarpered when they heard you stir.
Hi. Thanks for taking the time to comment. We don’t really know if there’s a big trend towards this kind of thing in the UK. There are certainly many more campervans on the road here now, so I guess that could be behind any increase. There are also owners of vans who take liberties about where they park and how they leave a place. So maybe a motive there to dissuade people parking up. Pleased it doesn’t appear as bad where you are. Safe travels 😊👍
American thieves have to consider the possibility they may get shot...
Sorry you had to go through this. In general, in the UK, vans have always been a target as scumbags try to steal tools. A lot of vanlifers are using converted vans that still look like trade vans, so that might explain a rise. In Europe, many people are against travellers, and they are going to the scary level of setting fire to vans as well as mobile homes. The difference across Europe is the number of sites you can stay on for about 5 euros a night, shower blocks, water, and waste disposal points. When I camp now, I only stop at sites.
Well the uk is getting worse … so it is no suprise to me..
We haven’t guns in the uk,so bullying is endemic…youd end up with a hole in the head in the US..
This is my first video of yours that came up in my feed. I feel so terrible for what happened to the both of you. If you have loved traveling before this, don't let who ever did this to you take that away from you. Be happy and enjoy each other and make more memories together.
So nice Pam. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
Sorry to hear about your attack! I live in a little condo and last summer someone threw a big rock through my kitchen window and they did it to others in my area. Plus cars get broken into as well. So it doesn't matter if it's your hone on wheels or a sticks and brick, dumb people are everywhere. Please don't let this stop you from living your dream because I think it was just a random act of violence.
Hi Faith. Sorry to hear about what happened to you. It must have been so scary. Thanks too for your kind comments. We really appreciate them. We think it was random vandalism too. They probably didn’t want us in “their” carpark! Hoping it won’t spoil things for us going forward. Safe travels x
@@Couplescience thanks kathleen
You're both so homey and lovely, it's like listening to an Aunt and Uncle telling stories of their adventures. I'm sorry this one was a bad experience, safe travels and thanks for the content.
Thanks Amor. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. Thanks again for commenting. All the best from uncle Graham 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
It can be difficult for the younger gen to understand that as we age we can feel less confident at being able to protect ourselves and our environment. I am glad things worked out. Keep safe out there.
Thank you Karla. I agree with you completely. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
I don’t understand why the police weren’t called?
@@elizabethapfelbaum1240 when it was reported to the police they did 2 things. Firstly they confirmed that they couldn’t proceed with investigating the crime as there wasn’t enough evidence. Secondly that they wouldn’t routinely attend for this sort of crime. I hope that helps your understanding. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
Don t really see what age has got to do with it x
@@coolkitty2075 ...and that comment just proves the original point exactly.
Apply some "Vehicle Safety/Security Film" to all side/rear windows. If someone wants to smash a window, it will still shatter but the glass will be held together by the film. Safe travels!
Thanks for watching and commenting Marek ❤️. Good advice👍We have certainly learned quite a bit from this experience. Take care 😊👍❤️
If you can, invest in cameras to insert in your van to take surveillance around your van when your parked and sleeping or even if your away from your van for a period of time. I am glad that the two of you are alright and there is nothing you did to cause this. It's the people that live in this world that do not respect nor value people, places, and property! Continue to thrive and be safe! ❤️🤗🥰
Thanks for your lovely message Terri. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
I really feel for you guys.
The place this happened is just up the road from me and it is a lovely area.
Take time to get over this and don’t make any rash decisions that you may later regret.
Hi Bobmob. Thanks for watching and commenting. It looked to be a really nice area. Infact we have been back since the vandalism and both agreed we would park there again if this hadn’t happened as there doesn’t seem to be anything wrong with the car park.
Here’s the link showing our thoughts after the event when we went back.
th-cam.com/video/fmXzGfuxsWA/w-d-xo.htmlsi=-_-GIvE4mldiAW1Z
Safe travels 👍😊
This is my first time looking at your channel. I am so sorry this has happened to you. You seem like very wonderful people. The pups 🐶 are just adorable. Please Do Not allow this horrible experience keep you from enjoying yourselves and enjoying the camping experience. You are strong and have dealt with it properly. Stay safe and many prayers 🙏
What a lovely message. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
So sorry you had to go through this. What's scary is that people are buying land to camp on so they can leave city life, yet their storage cabinets, barns, etc. that they set up get broken into. At least you were able to bail and not look back. I can't even fathom why the vandals did this. Seems like anyone who has anything going for them is a potential target.
Yes it can be a bad scene these days if you park in a bad place which we did. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
Oh my!!! My husband and I love van traveling and have one coming up. 😢 He has done it longer than me. Your video still gives me pause. I do love your doggies, and I'm so glad they or yourselves did not get hurt!
Hello and thanks for your kind comment. All we can say, is carry on doing what you love. We did find it hard to get past this at first, and we are grateful that none of us were hurt. But we are getting back to parking up in the wild. Hope you get to enjoy some of our later videos as they show how we are moving on from this and the steps we’ve taken to feel safe. Look after yourselves too. 😊👍🚐
Sorry to hear what happened guys :(. It’s the very first video I’ve seen of yours and it came with that terrible incident. I hope you two are holding up strong 💪 those who are responsible are nothing more then scum bags making others lives miserable. Stay strong, chin up don’t let these fools get you down, take care - John
Thanks very much John. I hope it doesn’t put you off our video’s. We are looking at CCTV and motion sensor lights. Also we will not park at this type of place again. Thanks for your support it really does help us. Take care yourself. 🐶🐶🚐🙏🧙♂️
@@Wizardinthewild What the cowards did was increase your subscriptions..I just subscribed 🌺
@@funkysouldancer1 well thanks for that. I hope you enjoy watching the back catalogue. I think we have improved over the time we have been doing it. 🙏🐶🐶🧙♂️🚐
We have been living in our motorhome for almost two years. If we could afford a home we would consider that now. But we can't. In the last two years we have seen a massive increase in van life and off grid camping. We have also seen increased aversion and hostility too by people and councils. I read one councillor calling us a scourge that contribute nothing and pay for nothing! This fuels peoples mis- understandings. We have been, because we are working there, on a camp site since Feb and this month we have off so we are now having nights off grid. We have noticed a much increased hostility to our parking off grid.We do have four cameras fitted but still every park up that we always used before has become less safe. Six, or nine months ago we could guarantee we were the only people parked up, now we vie with two or three others. We have been hassled by locals young and elderly. I understand why locals are getting annoyed in part. There are too many vans looking to park for free. We cannot afford camp sites ordinarily with living in it but this increase in van life and the hatred of it by communities is putting us all at risk. As for comfort insurance you were lucky. They wont even insure us if we park on the road!! So I am glad you got something out of them! They made my blood boil! I am sorry you went through this but I am hearing more and more incidents and it seems we are wanted off the road. They want their freedoms but don't want others to have theirs. You are right to be cautious now. Its not for the faint of heart this life style.
Hi Lizzy. Sorry to hear that parking has become harder for you. It’s sad if your lifestyle is causing so much more stress than it did before. And Through no fault of your own. We’ve noticed that we are seldom alone even when we park at this time of year. Scotland seems better than some other places. We always make a point of spending money in the local community when we park up by way of a thank you. Let’s hope that it all calms down again. Not holding our breath. Safe travels xx
If you look at whats been going on in the last few years, we've all been encouraged to hate each other by both the govt and the news media, all split into small groups by silly differences, we argue amongst ourselves and never look at the root cause of the issues we all share, and now energy prices are going mental and the cost of living has gone through the roof, is it coincidence or planned?
@@Wizardinthewild Scotland sounds a bettre bet for the moment then. When you get problems you may need to inform the local police, local councils and I would contact the local MP and further to that you may want to let the Government know about the issues you face by letter.
I don't see why anyone should care if you've found a way to live cheaper and not stealing or exploiting anyone. I do think a reason a lot of hostility has become more common is that bad people are also living in vans, cars, tents RVs and throw trash around, steal, etc. Some people who camp have also learned the passive aggressive trick of being bad neighbors so people move off and leave them to have a place to themselves.
@@collinsfriend1 You make a good point, one that leads me to a more depressing thought....... It's practically illegal to live off grid in this country, you couldn't just disappear onto a patch of land and generate your own electricity (for example), why is this? well I think if they let enough people do it, then others might follow, and the system of govt that we live with NEEDS compliance, it needs us to buy homes, pay our utility bills, pay our council tax etc.
I’m so sorry this happened. There are some really mean people in our world. Don’t let this discourage you from your adventures.
Thank you Ruby. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
Screens on your windows guys. Plus no offence, but you come across as too nice and easy targets for thugs. 😮 please take extra precautions, the world has gone where we felt safe. And they complained about Enid Blyton being inappropriate. 😢😢😢. Safe travels, Louise Australia 🇦🇺.
That must gave been terrifying to have that happen, especially late at night! I live in America and this kind of thing happens all the time here. Many people have also vanished or been murdered while camping as well. Stay safe!
OMG that sounds horrendous. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
Just found you all. I see this occurred 3 months ago, happy to hear no one was injured. Some people cannot let other people be happy and are just miserable human beings. Listening to your voice shake, broke my heart. Bless you both. Seems you found some beautiful souls along the way to soften the blow a bit. Good you both have each other as well.
Thank you Amy. It was a shocker at the time. Sone people accused us of staging it. Don’t think we are that good at acting. 😩. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
So sorry this happened to you both! It is surely understandable that you are unsettled. I hope you heal from this soon and are able to enjoy life again. So unfair that others can wish strangers harm these days. My best wishes from New York State in the US. You did nothing wrong-they did!
Thank you so so much for your lovely message all the way from New York State. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
Hi Folks. Just heard about you from a "Life is too short" video comment. Good to meet you fellow adventurers! So sorry to hear of your attack. We are of a similar age and travel in our campervan in New Zealand. We used to wild camp most nights but had a couple of bad experiences that has changed our park up choices. We have heard dodgy sounding vehicles cruise by us, in the small hours once too often. One night at about 2am we heard gunshots not too far away ..and phoned the police. We now spend most nights in less risky places, like Motorcamps, NZMCA parks and Popular DOC campgrounds. We still do wild camp sometimes.. but it is now more worrying than before. This is so disappointing for us because we love camping wild and getting close to nature in NZ. The sad reality is, that a just a very few immature damaged people spoil this beautiful world for the rest of us. We are not sure if we should take these experiences as a warning and be more cautious.. or be brave and not let a very few limit us so much. We empathize with you and look forward to watching more of your videos! Cheers, Cliff.
Hi Cliff. Really pleased you got to hear about us via Life is too Short. They are great adventurers. You pose a question that we we are also asking ourselves. Do we continue doing what we most love ( with a degree of anxiety) or do we play it safe and park on camp sites? Since the incident with the van we have done a combination of things. Pub stops, camp sites, aires and off grid. We think we will also do a combination going forward. In areas we don’t know we will probably use sites. In places where we feel safe, like Scotland we will probably go off grid. It would be sad not to do the thing we most love ( being off grid) but feel that we must now proceed with caution and take a balanced view if we can. Have just completed another trip to Arran. So there will be more films from there in the future. So pleased you are enjoying the vlogs. Safe travels 👍😊
So sorry about your disruption of your feeling of safety. It goes to show that one is not safe ANYWHERE!
I was burglarized in my own home and don’t really feel safe anywhere.
All the best to you whatever you decide to do.
Pam that’s awful. Makes this crime seem far less significant 😩. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
I'm getting asb atm and window smashed in my house so not nice..
Soo much violence and crime atm
Pleased you are both safe and Merlin is on the mend with his windows fixed and plan to sort the dent out. I’m sure it’s just a case of wrong place, wrong time rather than anything premeditated against yourselves personally. A mindless act of criminal damage for no reason. I sincerely hope you both find a path back to happiness in camping in Merlin, one step at a time and can in time heal the non-physical damage it’s caused you. You both must have been shattered but definitely the right thing to head off. Great that folks have helped too in getting you home and that Comfort have been great. Look after yourselves and I’m sure you will get your happy smiles back again soon. All our love, David & Rachel ❤
Thank you. Think you are right about wrong place, wrong time. Really not much we could do differently about where we parked up. ( other than not going off- grid anymore anywhere) it may change what we do. But it’s early days. Love to the 3 of you 🐶
Sadly a sign of the times and it will only get worse. Devastating for you both, I don’t think wild camping is worth the risk anymore, invest in the lighting etc as you obviously will, and when the shock subsides make a plan. I think long dark nights are for campsites, but only you can decide. Take care xx
I think you are right. Lights all round and modify where we Stay. Not going to use car parks like that again. Thanks for your support 🐶🐶🧙♂️🚐🙏
Both of you need to be so kind to yourselves, surround yourself with close friends and family that love you. If necessary seek a good therapist to help you through this terrible ordeal. I can only imagine how difficult this must be. Take care.
Thanks so much Jamie. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
What an awful thing to happen to such a lovely couple.
I sincerely hope that you both get over it very soon. Don't let them win.
Please consider coming to France in Merlin where you'll experience wonderful welcoming Aires de Camping Car in safety.
Sounds really tempting right now I can tell you! We often hear how good France is for camping. We are hoping to make it to Europe at some point in the future. Fingers crossed. 🤞Safe travels x
Glad you're okay and no one was hurt other than tthe damage to your van. Thankfully you were relatively close to home. I just saw a video from the other day where another person had their van attacked while he was asleep. The company who his insurance company told him to contact for the repair had to order the replacement window so they fitted with a piece of thick plexiglass which made it safe for them to legally drive and use their camper van because you couldn't tell it wasn't a regular car window. It made me think that it might be wise to have thinner pieces of plexiglass cut to fit each window on the inside of the van which would prevent the glass from breaking or at least keep any glass from getting inside the van if something ever broke the window again. You could attach weather stripping on the edge of each piece of plexiglass to make it secure while in place. I would attach tabs on the bottom edge that would help you remove it when necessary I would add some security cameras around the outside of the van that have the ability to film/let you see with night vision 360 degrees around the van. I have heard of some that are triggered by motion sensors. Another safety tip is to have more lights mounted to the outside of the van similar to the one above the sliding door which you can turn on with the press of a button or are triggered by motion sensors just like the cameras because it will not only scare off the person or people who are trying to break in or damage the van and possibly record what they look like and what their vehicle looked like and even better a license plate number which would help the police track them down. If you don't have a security system on your van I would highly suggest you have one installed asap. All of these things would help you to feel safe again. Many of the vehicle security systems trigger the car horn or another sound to go off whenever it system is triggered. You can also trigger it to go off by pressing a button on your key fob which would also help scare off whoever is trying to break in or damage the van. Other things to think about keeping in the van or with you while out exploring are: A tazzer, an air gun (fog horn) pepper spray and or bear spray. Always park facing the exit for wherever you are parked so that you can drive off immediately if needed because you never know what they might do if confronted. My parents took of us children camping each summer. It didn't matter if you were a newborn (the youngest baby was around 2 months old the first time they went camping. As the years went on eventually there were7 children and a dog in the family van. My parents had a tent trailer that had a queen sized bed on top of the trailer and they had a zip on extension room where the children slept on camping cots that you could stack like bunkbeds and we each had a sleeping bag. The baby slept in a portable crib and the next youngest slept on a cot in the room with our parents to make it easier to care for them if needed during the night. There were 2 large locking storage compartments on each side of the trailer which allowed them to pack everything we would need on our month long camping trips. Dad had reconfigured a boat refrigerator so that it could run off of an extremely large extra battery he added to the family vehicle that charged it while the car was on and it would run the refrigerator for up to a week without the car running. Eventually Dad upgraded to a popup camper trailer that slept 8 and had a fresh water tank, A sink, stove, heater, fan, small dorm size refrigerator and more. The sides on the bottom were metal covered with a fiberglass skin and the top was fiberglass panels that folded in and laid flat underneath the roof when packed up. There were 2 Queen beds that slid out on either end and had supports that got inserted into some slots under the bed and on the end of the trailer. It had many windows that had bug screens to allow fresh air in and kept out any bad weather. Because we camped in bear country we didn't eat or cook any food in the camper. Which was fine because we had a really good setup for cooking and cleaning up by the picnic table and campfire/grill. We had a series of canopies that we setup which kept us dry should it rain or any other bad weather situations. We could easily move from the tent or camper to the picnic table and our camp kitchen without getting wet and muddy which was amazing with the number of people on the various trips. Very different time from now. We created some amazing memories that we still talk about when we get together.
Aw bless you for taking the time to write this reply ❤️. Your camping experiences sound absolutely incredible! You really thought your adventures through so carefully and what lovely memories to treasure forever. As we are in the uk many of the things you use to defend yourself are illegal here. But we do now have cameras with bright lights on. We leave the van facing the exit and ready to drive and we do have a pretty decent alarm system. Luckily no bears here so it’s safe to cook in our camper 😉Sure we will get back to normal in time. Safe travels to you 😊👍🧙♀️
I have just recently watched your vlog when your window was broken, I don't want you to worry and keep going about the window, it may never happen again you just have to get on with your life. When you ride a bike and you fall off you have to get straight back on it and ride it, please don't let this spoil your van enjoyment get back out there and don't let the vandals win it can happen anywhere to anyone.
Thanks Trevor. A sensible approach. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
So sorry that happened! It's hard to understand why people do that to others. Glad you both are fine. Hang in there and let us know what happens next.
Thank you. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
So sorry to hear of your bad experience. Glad you are ok. My Wife and I no longer wild camp as we have heard of other incidents like yours. We try to find cl s and sites near beauty spots and old railway walks. The camper stays on site and we get peace of mind when we return. There is also security at night.We still think the small loss of freedom is a small price to pay for safety.Try to holiday differently and you may find that you like it that way.Enjoy yourselves in future.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts. We hadn’t heard of any cases of this until now. Totally get the peace of mind by being on a site. We have only recently ( past 2 years) gone off grid. We had a caravan and MH before and always stayed on sites. Think we may be doing more of that in future though it’s hard to know for sure right now. Safe travels x
Glad you didn’t get injured. I wouldn’t Park anywhere but a large campground because of something like this happening. Be safe!
@@warren9815 thanks Warren. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
@@warren9815 We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
So sorry you had to experience such horrible violence, people are just terrible... . thanks goodness there are still good people amongst us
Yes indeed. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
@@Wizardinthewild I can imagine how scary that was, I was driving with my car and little dog from Ireland ⛴️ ferry to France and then to Germany. I slept in the car at big places like the petrol stations on the motorway. Luckily nobody did scar me but I would have freaked out certainly. Good luck for the future 🙏👍
Las Vegas, Nevada here I am so sorry this happened to you! I hope you are able to continue what you love. 🙏🏼
Hi JHM. Thank you so much. We will get there Safe travels x
This was clearly horrific. You are very blessed to have each other. I drove a 28 foot camper van for a couple years in England and Ireland...sometimes alone with a little dog, and sometimes with my young teenage sons
I had to battle fear a lot and in the end I sold it. Am tempted at 65 to buy again but these scary moments really give pause for thought ♡
Hi Angie. Your adventures in your camper with your little dog and children sound incredible. and how amazing that you did it even though you were scared. ❤️ there are quite a few solo travellers out there. Some stick to sites which may be a bit safer. What happened to us is mercifully quite rare. Really hope you can go for it if it’s what you dream about. Maybe get a bigger dog to share your travels with? Safe travels x
@@Wizardinthewild i now have an Irish Red Setter who barks loudly but would likely lick an intruder to death
I was camping alone in a field by a lake for a week to do some writing and de stress
I noticed I had been being observed by some shady looking characters
I prayed with all my heart to God when I could not sleep one night for fear
I felt a still, small voice say Look out of the window
I saw I literally saw an angel probably 22 foot tall standing guard
And God reminded me again, Fear Not ♡
I pray God gives you wisdom what to do. My Dad and his wife are RV'ers here in the US. I pray you are blessed and safe.
Thanks again Desiree. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
I live in France and the UK is a different world to me. You could not pay me to take my camping car there, Sorry. Come to France what you save on camp site fees it will pay for the crossing. All the best to you guys. thank you for sharing.
That’s not a bad shout actually. It is something we have been thinking about. We were of the opinion there is much to see in the uk which is true. This location was just a transit stop. Which we wish we hadn’t used. Thanks fir your message. 🐶🐶🚐🙏🧙♂️
It can happen anywhere in france too unfortunately. Idiots know no boundaries. Grrrrrr
I’m glad you’re safe. I would have been afraid to step out of van.
Susan. Adrenaline did that. Not my wisest move. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
Love to you. I think this was a random act of vandalism. No fault of yours at all.
I just hope you can find a way of getting back the joy your adventures were giving you. You are still in shock, take some time and stay safe xxxx
Thank you very much Libalyff. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
Pleased that you’re both safe, this is happening far too often this is why I will never wild camp .
Thank you Peter. It’s making us consider what we do for sure. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
If you give up, the thugs have won! It is healing to talk about bad experiences. Take time to recover and then, hit the road. My prayers are with you. Please keep the channel going. You are lovely people.
Thanks Henna. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
I am so sorry y'all had to go through something like that. But please don't let someone else's stupidity stop you from doing what you love. God bless and may you have safe travels.
Hi Bridgette. Thank you for your lovely comment. Perhaps you may like to check out our other vlogs after the attack to see how we have got on and measures taken to try and prevent this happening again. 👍❤️😊🚐
I'm so sorry you had this experience and that it shook your sense of personal safety. I can see how you'd be in a state of shock for a bit as it sinks in that it really did happen and the reality of what could have happened. It was very likely it was mis-directed teenagers out looking for trouble. I hope you're able to regain your sense of safety so you can keep traveling. Do by all means leave a review on that car park so others know not to park there. Thank you for sharing your experience. I wish you peace and renewed hope.
Thanks very much Susan. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
My first time watching! So sorry to hear! …omg! This has been a good education for me, as a widow, and contemplating van life! Thank you! Real eye opener, as there are angry, desperate souls rampant, everywhere, more so then ever! Be safe! Love your doggies!
Sorry if we put you off Susan. Glad you like our doggies. Not particularly good guard dogs though 🐶🐶🧙♂️🙏🚐
@@Wizardinthewild no worries…you did not put me off! I already realized driving a van these days alone, is not a good idea! I am in the U.S. ….So stay safe! Best to be not too much off the grid …unless in a large parking area? 🌿🙏
@@susancarol4735 difficult to say where is safe to be honest. But good luck with your travels and stay safe xx
I carry winter window film that heat shrinks onto a window or windshield for a very tight fit. We have huge theft of catalytic converters here in the US. Take them while we sleep. Lately vans and campers themselves are way up.
So sorry this happened to you.
Hi Kathryn sounds like this sort of crime is everywhere. So sad. Winter film sounds interesting. Safe travels x
What a horrible thing to happen. As Daivid said below, wrong place, wrong time and not your fault in any way. These things just take time and hopefully in time this week will be a distant memory in amongst all the other lovely trips. Thank you for being strong enough to share this. Stay strong.
Hi Chris. Thanks for your kind comment. Really hope you are right. It does change things. But really hope we can eventually get back out there and enjoy our camper as we once did. X
You did nothing wrong. In fact, it sounds like a perfect trip. It’s just, there’s evil people out there. I have PTSD too, the result of an evil person that I dealt with in the military. I’m so happy that you two are fine and your doggies are fine. My home is my safe place. I don’t go out very often. I hope you can find a way. Still enjoy your times out on the road. Your van is beautiful. Take care, and I will be praying for all four of you.
Thank you Sue. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
The sound of something racking is distinctive and quite a deterrent!!
May well work but not allowed in the UK. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🏴
Has never happened to us in 20years BUT we always stay on sites ....Mostly the 2 majors. I have friends who wild camp and have never had problems but I always felt safe sleeping and leaving the van on a site. This is horrible we all love our vans and seeing them attacked for no reason is very unsettling.
Thanks Walkabout. I think this sort of attack is mercifully quite rare. It’s been helpful hearing that the wider area where we stayed has its issues even though the car park looked ok. If we ever go off grid again it will be in very remote places where vandals can’t be bothered to go. Safe travels x
Having just found your youtube channel, i was very saddened to hear of the problems you had. I wish you both well, and hope that you can continue wild camping eventually. Its so sad what some people do to others. All the best and take good care.
Hi Craig. Thanks for your comments. We are not exactly sure what we are going to do but we will start with safer things and see how we go. Maybe pub stops or CL’s. Thanks so much for your support 🐶🐶🧙♂️🚐🙏
We have pulled our caravan in all but one state in the USA mainland and touch wood never had a problem like you had. Keep your chin up and safe journey.
Thanks George. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
Sorry to hear about your experience . Overnight near a public road not too remote from built up area has to be more risky than a designated campsite or a remote spot in the wilds .
Thanks very much. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
Sorry for what happened. Glad you are ok. First clip I see from you, what wonderful people and what a lovely couple you are! Prayers from germany.
Martin thank you for your lovely message. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
What a beautiful genuine loving couple . Just glad you both and the dogs are OK. Karma will come to those scummy idiots. Safe travels hope to meet you on the road one day 😊😊
Hi Malcolm. Thank you for watching and commenting❤️ we felt very lucky that it was only the van that got damaged. It could have been much worse. It’s taken a bit of getting over, but we made the decision that we wouldn’t let it stop us. Safe travels ❤️👍😊
Graham & Ellie, I am so pleased your both safe and Merlin is being repaired. Mindless arseholes who I'm sure we would all like 5 minutes with. I totally understand how you feel, several years ago we were woken up by a loud bang and security lights coming on, it was the police chasing a car thief across our garden which took us ages to recover from and nothing like what you have experienced.
I sincerely hope this doesn't stop you enjoying Merlin, probably worth sleeping in him on the drive for a bit then progress to CL's and build your confidence up. I would also write the local papers with photographs; I'm sure Altringham will have a free rag that will be willing to help and who knows you might just catch the Bastards. Stay safe, lots of love. Cheers K.
Hi Karlos. Thanks for your kind comments and some sound advice there. Sleeping on the drive sounds like a great idea. We have CCTV on the house, so will feel quite a bit safer. It will be like lockdown van life revisited 😉. Also quite like the idea of writing to the papers. We contacted Manchester police, but not much for them to go on unfortunately. Just hope it doesn’t happen to anyone else. These things are very scary. The van can be fixed, we can try to be logical in our thoughts, but the trauma it leaves behind is quite different. Any sudden or unexpected noise is making us quite jumpy ! Take care x
Oh my, I’m so sorry this happened to you. It’s very helpful to talk it out like you’re doing. For now, fix the van, install motion sensors/lights on the outside, and give yourself time to heal. Good luck putting this behind you. Greetings from California, USA.
Hi Janet in California. Thank you. It’s a balancing act between talking it out and getting past it. We’ve ordered some extra security. So made a start. 👍safe travels x
My parents got gassed via the air vent. The intruders then forced the door and robbed them while they were unconscious, they lost money, cards, documents and were unwell from gassing. That night other campers were also robbed via the same methods. My parents survived the other campers didn't survive the gassing. You can take all the safe precautions but camping does remain a risk, no doubt campers are vulnerable. Your camper van can be mended, your both shaken but your together and not hurt. Take all the safe precautions it's all you can do in the future if your to continue. x
Oh Gillian that’s so awful. What a sad, sad story and dreadful that those poor people should be murdered in that way too. Pleased your parents survived🙏. Nothing is 100 safe. Life is a risk. You’ve explained that well. We have ordered cameras/ lights. Hoping that will help us to stay safe 🤞safe travels x
Glad you're both ok. Get some CCTV stickers and put them in clear vision 🌻 don't let them stop you ❤️
That’s a fantastic idea about the stickers! We love(d) going off grid so hope we can get back to it in time. Safe travels x
CCTV stickers donot stop shop lifting or burglary ,certainly will not stop hit and run vandalism . Sorry .
So sorry to hear of your horrendous experience, I am always dubious in car parks , sadly it's a feral Britain today, , all the best
Quite understand why you are dubious Colin. We always used sites until we got Merlin. Then got quite taken with the freedom of being able to park up ( legally) in beautiful places. Don’t know if we will ever feel the same again …
Onwards and upwards
Totally ! 🤞
I hope you recovered from this horrible incident and are still camping
Thanks very much. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
I’m so sorry you have both had this horrible thing happened to you…. Couple of suggestions when wild camping (don’t give up), I think camping in or near cities can be iffy, housing estates are often situated on the outskirts , perhaps book sites in advance. You know the answers yourselves, maybe alarm, cameras and other safety equipment, try not to arrive after dark and be kind to yourselves this was not your fault. Please don’t give up, this will take a while to get over, you are in shock,. you two lovely people are strong, we know you will conquer your worries with some small changes. All the very best.
Yeah you are right. This location was just a transit stop. Camping near cities will be a no no in the future. Thanks fir your support and hopefully we will get back to it in sone firm or other. 🙏🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️
I'm relatively new to motorhomes , but i've been a trucker for 39 years . I've never stopped near anything that even vaguely resembles anything like a town , let alone a city . As a trucker , my driving hours are limited by law , so faced with this prospect , i would always plan around that , choosing motorway services if need be .
Though i no longer cab rat now , i did tramp for years , all over the country , and with a variety of different cargo's , never had any issues , though i knew of other drivers who did . There always was a certain amount of animosity directed at caravans , but my feeling is now , this has changed . I first noticed it , following the Brexit referendum , and it has been progressively growing since . People seem to have changed , become less tolerant , they drive like lunatics , road rage abounds , and heaven forbid you should happen to drive something unusual that holds them up . Motorhome , and caravaners are on holiday , their general attitude is what's the rush . The problem is they are holding other people up , who are not on holiday , and they forget that , so really it's an own goal . Tv programs such as top gear , latched onto this , and worked it for ratings , and the result is what we have now . With my motorhome , i'm more guarded where i stop . I have used motorway services , but when i wild , it really is wild . I drive the thing like my heavy , often having traffic , hold me up , but i'm still tarred with the same brush .
So what of the future , well that's already well in hand . Through means beyond my control , the original use for my motorhome has changed , ultimately meaning it will be used less . Green issues mean running it , will cost more in the future , forcing my original retirement plans to change , so now with the finance almost in place , a change of track is imminent .
@@mickey1299 only just spotted this reply. Sorry it’s taken so long! You make some very good points and have had a lot of experience too. Usually our off grid Parkups are much more remote. Unfortunately this time things conspired against us timing wise and we didn’t have quite the same options as usual. The good reviews for the site didn’t help either as lulled us into a false sense of security. We’ve had caravans and also been annoyed by caravans when stuck behind them. Graham always tries to let traffic past when necessary or keeps up with the flow. Trouble is, people make judgements don’t they? Even if you’re the sensible one. Hope you enjoy your retirement when you have put your plans into action. Safe travels x
My heart goes out for you both really sad hope you can find away past this we was thinking of doing off grid as we are newbies to motorhomeing certainly makes you think twice just glad you both and dogs are ok
Thank you Ian. We have subsequently started Wildcamping again. That attack was last November and we are moving on from it. We are about to publish our latest trip of visiting the Isle of Arran again where we do further wild camps. Thanks again for your kind message Ian. 🐶🐶🙏🚐🧙♂️
What a tragic thing to hear, and only yesterday came upon another video of a couple, with their kids having their camper being disturbed at 1am in Falkirk, Scotland by youths knocking on the side, very scary, but interesting how both these events happening in the UK.
Hi Janet. Thanks for watching. Very sad and scary when these things happen. Must have been so worrying with children in the van Thankfully we are getting back to normal. We’ve done a few vlogs showing how we’ve improved our security since this happened if you are interested. Safe travels 😊👍
@@Wizardinthewild Thanks for reply and will watch further as sounds reassuring. Hopefully I am going to start campervan life soon, but I am alone (middle aged female) and wonder if I can find some nice farmer who can allow me to park a while as I am hoping to move to Wales from West Sussex and think camper van would help me transition before buying a property.
Well good luck with that Janet. 🙏👍🚐
This is my first time visiting with you folks. Random unprovoked senseless violence is bound to frighten anyone. It angers me that this happened to you. You seem like such lovely people. I'll be curious to see what you decide going forward. In the meantime, God bless.
Thank you for your kind message Jim. We are about to start our second Isle of Arran series where we do wild camp. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
How awful totally shocking that people have done this. Really hope you can pick yourselves up when you are ready as i know how much you enjoy your trips. Thinking of you ❤ xx
Thank you Jenni. Really appreciate your kind comments. We are ok physically thank goodness and the van can be repaired. May take us a bit longer to feel safe. But we will get there xx
I feel so bad this happened to you. I pray for solace for you. God Bless
Thanks Loretta. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
So sorry that you’ve both gone through this, it’s awful. This is why we have not managed to wildcamp yet, I wouldn’t sleep as I’m a worrier at the best of times. Hope it doesn’t put you off doing what you enjoy.
Thanks Kevin. I think we will also be worriers now. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
I’m sorry you experienced this. People just have no moral code. Unkindness, theft, selfishness…..it’s so awful. Get an alarm system, you can set off to scare people away. Hugs to you both.
Thank you. Good advice. We have an alarm for when we leave the van and will now up our game with more cameras etc. safe travels x
Welcome to Tennessee fellas...gas 2.65 in east TN. We have " carpet & drapes " here...( grass & trees ) it's all in what you get used too..be safe..😊
Thank you. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
Watching from New Zealand. This problem is everywhere, even here not just in the UK. You are good people and didn't do anything wrong, don't blame yourselves for making a decision to park there for the night. Who would be expecting anything like that to happen, no one would. Do not let this one incident deter you from doing what you both enjoy doing. I would just be a bit more selective in where i parked up in future. We feel for you. Bob n Lina. NZ.
Thanks so much Bob and Lina. Good to hear from you. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
Sorry you had to experience this. Don’t let it put you off, you have already proven you can overcome challenges life throws at you xx
Thanks Tracey. You are right. Think it will take a bit of time though x
Oh my gosh it RAINED your whole drive home Glad no one was hurt and you have insurance.
Tina it was an awful drive home 😩. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
So sorry for you both. Hearing your story made my blood boil. Its great how you both handled a horrible situation. Stay strong and best of luck to you.
Thank Ross. It wasn’t easy at the time. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
This is the first video of yours ive ever watched and I am so sorry you went through that. I am not a Brit but I have heard things about manchester perhaps it wasn't the wild camping choice but just the city area you were in. I hope this doesnt stop you from doing what you love take your time to heal from it and continue on. I mean honestly anything can happen anywhere at anytime it doesnt have to be an isolated place or at night if someone really wants to harm others or scare others they will do it anywhere anytime. Unfortunately thats just the state of this world now.
Thanks so much for your supportive message. Yeah I think our mistake was the area. We will be more careful in future. Semi Rural car parks like that will not be on our menu anymore. Messages like yours are helping us so thanks very much. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
@@Wizardinthewild you're welcome! Stay safe ❤
You are both lovely people
I am so sorry
Be cautious. Think it through, and whatever you decide, dont let those evil people take away your joy. You have a right to enjoy your life, whatever you decide.Lots of love.
Thanks fir your kind message Michelle. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
The chances of this happing is so remote, what’s even more impossible is this happening again! I wish you both my warm wishes and hope you’s find comfort in enjoying your future adventures in safety…Warm wishes from Ben
Thanks very much Ben. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
Stay safe
What a terrible thing you’ve experienced. It’s very brave of you to relive it on the vlog for other vanners and interested people. Glad you are all physically ok. Thinking and praying for you as you deal with the horrible consequences to yourselves and Merlin.
Trust time and the love you will receive from viewers will help you xx
Hi Stephen. You and everyone else have been so supportive. Thank you! It really does restore our faith in humanity. Your kindness is really appreciated. We felt it was very important to share this. If it helps just one other person to keep safe on their travels, then it will have been worth it. We will get there x
It's happening to the boating comunity on the canals around Cheshire
Sorry you went thru that. It's a beautiful van. Try to be positive pray for inner peace. GOD BLESS
Thanks for your kind words Carol. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
I hope that you will get to do more travels as I have just disordered your channel with this video. I am glad you are all safe and I hope you will always be safe. Random acts of violence can happen anywhere because of people's decisions to do wrong. Know where you are at and do what you can to be safe. Please don't let these guys win. It may take you a bit to even go on a trip, but I do believe that you should.
Hi Beth we do plan to get back out there with added security. Off grid May take a little longer though. Hope you enjoy the channel and thanks for watching. Safe travels x
I am so shocked at what you have both been through, a very scary moment no doubt. I hope you make the right decision for both of you regarding the future, and I would love to see you continue your travels. There are some evil people out there who try to intimidate us and rule our lives. But life is for living! please make the most of it. Take care. Bazza
Thanks so much for your kind words Bazza. We certainly did feel intimidated! But you are right. We can’t let people like them destroy what is so precious . Our freedom. Otherwise they win don’t they?
It's so scary been the subject of asb and window smashing. It's horrible...
How scary 😨 and how horrendous what happened to you 😞
Thank you Clare. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
So sorry you went through that, Lord knows it could have been much worse. Thankfully you are both okay. Stay well.
That’s the truth Edward. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
So happy that you're all ok. You might want to set up cameras and motion sensor lights all around the van to help with your security. Blessings always
Thanks Elaine. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
This is shocking! My heart goes out to both of you, you are such a lovely couple, and motor homes are expensive. I hope this never happens again. Don’t let those yobs spoil your adventures. There’s a video online about a man who slept in his van and someone smashed his window grabbed his work bag and drove off. He is a long distance lorry driver. To cut to the point. He had to work and when he returned his friend had fitted a temp perspex window for him until he could get a replacement. It might be a good idea to carry some perspex replacement windows just incase it happens again. We gave up caravanning because after covid we noticed that a lot more people were not sticking to the rules. Parks were becoming rowdy with a lot of partying and heavy drinking and kids running riot. If we complained we were treated like we were the problem. I miss our caravan so don’t let this put you off. It doesn’t help that parks are becoming very expensive. It might be a good idea to install CTV so that you can at least see outside your motorhome and capture any incidents. All the best to both of you and your furry babies.❤
Hi, Thank you so much for watching and for taking the time to write such a lovely comment ❤️. We heard about that lorry driver too. Must have been terrifying.
So sad to hear that you have given up your caravan. To be fair, we have found evidence of the same thing post-Covid. Prices have gone up a lot on sites (all year round), they can be very noisy/busy, and there are far more people out there who don’t know how to treat the countryside. Just hope it’s a phase that comes to an end. Finger’s crossed 🤞
We are continuing with our adventures and hope that you can follow them as they include what we have done to keep safer after the vandalism to Merlin.
Our current Outer Hebrides trip has done much to restore our faith in humankind. ❤️
Happy New Year to you! ❤️👍😊🚐🥳
Bless both of you ❤
It is awful that people cannot just live their lives and nobody bother them, so sad this happened. I swear people are turning into evil sociopaths by the day, the world is getting crazier, good luck, take care and God Bless❤️❤️🙏🙏✝️🌹
Sadly Marion I think you are right. Messages like this are helping us. I suspect that in future we will be more careful about where we park. Also looking at motion sensor lights and CCTV. Thanks again. Take care 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
This must have been awful for you both,what has gone wrong with the world 😢 thank goodness there are still some good people around to help
Thanks very much Kathy. It wasn’t our best day ! We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
Add some outside motion lights to your van if possible. That might help. Praying for you both.
Thank you Katrina. We appreciate you taking the time to comment. 👍. Comments like this are helping to make us feel better. We will no doubt modify where we camp in the future. We will also make modifications to Merlin to help protect us better. We are putting out updates on our TH-cam channel Wizard in the Wild if you want to know the latest. Thanks again for commenting. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️🙏
I am sorry to hear of your bad experience, I hope it doesnt put you off totally. All the very best to you both.
Thanks Nick. Think it will be a matter of working out what is our new normal in the van x
Just come across your channel...totally shocked and devastated for you both ...hope your confidence in wild camping restores
Thanks David. Glad you found our channel but sorry to shock you 😩. Messages such as yours are definitely helping us. We are overwhelmed by the support we have had by lovely people like you. It does help us. 🙏. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️ xx
God bless you both . Please don't let it spoil your pleasure. Such a lovely couple. I feel for you both, and send you love. xx
Hi Haydock. What a lovely, kind message ❤️ Thank you for watching. Hope you will stick with us and see how we are doing now. You can’t let things like this stop you from doing what you love can you? Safe travels 😊👍🙏x
@@Wizardinthewild ❤️❤️
So sorry to hear about your incident. There are some mindless people out there, most of their actions come from jealousy. Don’t let these people stop what you love doing. Give it some time. I wish you both well. Barry
Thank you Barry. We are overwhelmed by the absolutely wonderful messages. It is helping for sure and slowly we are beginning to feel better about. Can almost feel we may have the strength to carry in in some form. So thank you 🙏. 🐶🐶🚐🧙♂️xx
So sorry for the difficulties. I am new here and subscribing in order to support you two. Best wishes for feeling better soon.
Hi Julie. Thank you for your support for our channel. It’s this kind of support that really helps us. Especially when faced with a challenge such as this! Must admit that at the time we wondered if it was all worth it. Hope you enjoy some of our (much happier) vlogs 😊x