Over sharing has definitely caused an issue with a lot of these places, and some people don't need to be campers if they're not a clean person and keep their areas clean also. It's an unfortunate down side to camping.
Thanks for this segment! It's heartbreaking and ironic that people go to pristine nature spots only to leave their trash behind and destroy the very thing they came to appreciate.
Excellent info Christian! Let me add my 2 cents worth: 1.) Christian has already mentioned this, but it bears repeating. Residental areas whether city, town or very rural -Always prepare your vehicle at another location before going to your parking spot. Just because you have your blackout window coverings up does not mean people know your inside. Your body movements shaking the vehicle will give you away to anyone walking not by you, but anywhere within eyesight or hearing which means looking out there house windows wondering what the strange vehicle is on their street that seems to be bouncing on it's shock absorbers ( if your a couple-that's understandable! 😇). 2.) When you stop for the night - Put your keys in the same location everytime and not left in a pants pocket. When you lay them down place them where they can be picked up as you are moving into the drivers seat. Arrange the keys so that the ignition key is sticking out separate from the others keys so picking them up and getting into the drivers seat is one fast easy motion without fumbling to get the vehicle started. 3.) Park with the vehicle aimed to move quickly without having to reverse to turn out of a parking spot be it campsite or street. 4.) When at a questionable campsite if you choose to stay the night leave nothing outside that you cannot drive off and leave it if you have intruders around the vehicle. 5.) Blackout window coverings using "Reflectex" Nothing says "stealth camping" in a residential area faster then seeing the silver Reflectex in the windows. No matter how dark your window tint is at night an experienced security guard or cop is going to see it through the window tint when their headlights hit your windows! 6.) Leaving windows cracked to prevent the condensation buildup- you can find the plastic "rain shields" that are inserted into the window channels to keep the rain out. These are a godsend not only for the rain, but the average passerby will not see your windows open at the top as they are hidden by the rain shield. Having a skylight air vent is better, but if you haven't got one this idea helps. 7.) Interior lighting - it's going to leak out if it is bright. What I have for stealth camping is dimmable lighting below the window frames mainly just to see things on the deck in my "living room" or read a book in my bed. 8.) I have the idea of installing bright white LEDS lights at or near the doors at eye level that can be flipped on from my bed. The idea is to momentarily blind a curbsucking lowlife scum trying to break open a door. The surprise effect can give precious seconds to get the engine started to drive away. If any of this helps anyone on the road then it was worth the time to write it.
Amazing, thanks for taking the time to include all of this here! So many helpful tips - especially the rain guards. I had those when living in my suv and they really are an essential for stealth camping 👌🏻
@@ChristianSchaffer Your most welcome. Keep on being yourself - you may question yourself, but you're finding the right answers! West of the Mississippi River is the place to be!
In almost two years of stealth camping, I got one ticket (fought it and won) and one knock. I’m still kinda shocked at how many park for the night without preparing at a different location first. They blow it for us careful types. Lots of good solid information here. Thank you.
Face it, it only takes a few to phuq it up for everyone. If this is a shock to you, congrats for being 9 years old. Hope you never grow up and have to face reality.
We camped as kids growing up, my Dad stressed the importance of cleanup in an area we arrived at saying "Always leave a campsite or fishing spot cleaner than when you arrive....' as he helped us pick up trash to haul out. This left a life long lesson we should all strive to do. I was shocked to camp in Kansas, trash was everywhere. I filled a large trash can with garbage that I found all around the edge of a small lake, some aluminum cans had pull top style lids, so they had been there for over thirty years! such a shame. My kids helped me that evening, so they will follow my example. Love your candid videos Christian.
Christian, your situational awareness and trusting your gut are indeed superpowers. I worked the overnight shift for many years. We had a saying, “Nothing good happens after midnight”. I’ve tried to teach my kids, especially my daughters, that creeps prefer two things; darkness and no witnesses. I’ve also tried to teach them not to live in fear. Like most things, balance is key. Love that you’re living the life you desire, sharing the beauty of that life with others, while also being honest/authentic about the risks. Stay the course. With close to 300k subs, you’re clearly doing a lot right. Thanks for all you do. Here’s the dad in me coming out….when in doubt, move on!!!
As a person who sleeps in their vehicle on road trips very often, I have realized Planet Fitness parking lots are great if your a member. They are open 24 hours so no one cares if your parked there. Also you can shower and use the bathroom at any point. Never had an issue and they are safer than Walmart parking lots.
As a full time Vanlifer, Planet Fitness has been a staple for us for years. And many are now refusing us, just as she mentions here and for the same reasons she mentions. You might want to prepare before you head out for your next vacation. We full-timers are running out of resources. She is not making any of this up. Planet Fitness. Walmart…. She could have gone down the list. Same/Same. Things have changed. Full timers know. Please plan accordingly.
@@alexpraksti6132 I also have a hatchback - it's great to camp in! Vans are now being scrutinized in parking lots much more than before. "Van Camping" is even being considered in new city ordinances as a prohibited activity. Car camping is the way to go for almost no suspicion. Good job Alex!
Hey Christian - I liked this episode. I am an old lady (about to be 69 in August) and am about a year out from selling most of what I own, including the house, and hitting the road. There is so, so much planning to do to enter this lifestyle, but I've dreamed of going on the road for years, and I refuse to die while staring at the same four walls. I currently have a Honda CRV, and have been scoping out some of the BLM and Forest Service sites in my area. I live in mid-western Oregon, and it's so beautiful that I'll likely hang out here most of the time and then take random trips to visit friends, attend events, etc. My sister lives about 20 minutes away from me on five acres, and I can park there occasionally and use her address as my home base (so lucky). I may dabble in TH-cam videos, thinking that there may be other old ladies who would find them useful. I'm looking at having a Ford Transit High Roof Extended base with AWD built out by Drifter. It will be expensive, but will have everything my dog, my cat, and I will need. I plan on 5-10 years on the road, or until I'm ready for the old folks' home. I appreciate your willingness to share your experiences, remind us to care for the planet, and to pay attention to our women's intuition. Thanks a bunch, and maybe I'll see you on the trail some day!
I completely understand how you can get spooked by the sorts of late night encounters you described. I'm a guy, and I'm big enough and confident enough that nobody has ever tried to start trouble with me. But I've been tent camping a few times when people in trucks will pull up near my tent in the middle of the night and just sit there with their headlights shining on my tent. That freaks me out and there is no way to go back to sleep after that.
That should tell us something about these people. They are seeing if there is anyone they can potentially abduct, is my best guess. My brother(in Kalispell, MT) and myself in Missoula, MT....have had vehicles with tinted windows pull up and sit nearby our vehicle. Friends and I decided to follow the person or people for a while and they sped way up eventually. I was apparently dealing with a criminal or criminals who didn't want me knowing where they were at or what they were up to. I feel pretty certain these people are looking to see if there is any vulnerable person they can abduct. Or goofballs just messing with people's heads.
As someone who is slowly planning vanlife, I greatly appreciated this video. Where and not to park is a concern, which I realize I will have to discover as you said things can change year to year. I will find some spaces to park, show others I am respectful of nature and others around me and ask for good advice.
I think Christian' connects well here, because she is so on-point with her minimal lifestyle. it means she has clear answers to her own questions - a lesson learned.
thanks Christian. I only lived in my car for about 6 months and it was in between many house/pet sitting gigs, but I got two knocks on my car during that time. one was on the blue ridge parkway in NC, which I knew was technically not allowed, but so many people were doing it and I was told by someone at an outdoors store that it was fine and not a big issue. but the cop came around late in the morning and told me there was no camping on the parkway. the other time was at a trailhead in new mexico, and it was because my car was parked in the wrong direction. i turned it around and the cop wished me a goodnight and moved on. it is definitely easier to find places to park overnight out west.
Thank you for being a steward for nature and doing your part to spread awareness and help protect vulnerable ecosystems from the effects of over tourism. I've seen so many places get destroyed where I live and it makes me so sad. More social media influencers need to be responsible and stop sharing specific locations for views. They're driving so much traffic and these places just can't handle it.
I love your take on keeping our land beautiful. It's simple but so many people don't take it seriously. It really angers me sometimes, but keep the positivity going. Christian you are a gem. Love your videos.
People be people, you know? It is really awful, and I think those of with a conscious just have to carry for those of us who don't. It is depressing, but what can you do? Negative littering for the win.
ive seen some hospitals that are just a flat fee to park, doesnt matter how long youre there...and depending on the specific lot no one questions a vehicle there for days even
Good advise on a number of topics. The end advise to be mindful and respectful can not be overstated. It's way to easy to be inconsiderate. When possible leave the camp spot cleaner than you found it. If most of us did that, there would be nothing left to clean up. Thanks for posting this!
This video is brimming - nay...OVERFLOWING - with road life wisdom, spoken from experience by someone celebrating her five year roadiversary this month. "Vanniversary?" So much good info...so much insight and so clearly-presented. This is high quality content, and beautiful as always. Thanks Christian!
Dear Christian, this video is a class for someone that is looking to start this journey. I had similar experiences in my previous job when I pickup and delivery motorcycles around the country. Some deliveries was on the Colorado mountains and in my case I wasn’t allowed to park my truck and enclosed trailer, permits only for RV’s and camper trailers. Thank you again for share your experience in this beautiful and challenging journey! Keep safe, positive and good energies and bear hug from your fan here.
@@Regis019Beck well shoot we are thinking about getting a similar set up to move in, specifically a toy hauler trailer. I’m really worried there won’t be too many places I can get it to to park. But there are two of us. It will not be stealth. But there seems to be no way to people with a lot of stuff, Bikes, kayaks, Music equipment, can live in a stealth vehicle.
I agree with EVERYTHING you said, Christian! I travel mainly in France, as well as in the 8 countries around. Getting away from built-up areas, getting off busy roads, not encroaching on private property, being discreet, respecting places and regulations, trusting your instincts... and it's going well. I just shared, 5 days ago, my morning coffee with 3 gendarmes on patrol on the Franco-Spanish border ! Best wishes !
Thank you for opening up so much in these past two videos. 💚 I completely agree with you and so respect why you wouldn't want to share camp site locations. You give enough information for us to do the rest of the research on our own 😊
I am so happy to hear you trust your gut when setting up camp for the night. One of my wife's biggest challenges has always been to trust her instinct. The worst part is her instinct 99.999% of the time is correct. There are too many bad people in this world looking to destroy beauty for someone like you to not trust your instinct. Thank you for your videos, your words of advice and encouragement. You are an inspiring woman.
Christian, another great episode, with so much good information! The last two videos should be on a playlist for any would-be van lifers. I have to say though, this one sounds pretty discouraging. How sad that remote camping areas have become so popular, disruptive and trashed that they’re getting closed. Maybe the van life thing will lose its appeal one day, and only people who really care about nature’s beauty and serenity will be able to enjoy the freedom again. Thanks sharing your travels and your experience.
Oh Christian, what a blessing you are I'm a 78-year young new widow who has been watching you since 2020 the idea of purchasing a van of some type and working to save money by hitting the road My my hubby at 50 years decided to move to heaven before me I did a no-build build with our Honda Odyssey, did a four night-five day stealth parking, in Lincoln City. I felt so smart. Two funny things of my alarm going off when wanted to get out and after scramble d to throw my legs over the front seat and screwed down into my driver's seat only to have the alarm go off once I was in place to turn the key on and turn it off! The next morning because I had left the van unlocked because I was in a safe place so the alarm wouldn't go off but now the van door STILL wouldn't open.!... Reason? It was January or February... On the Coast and weather went down to the 20,s because it had rained night before... Yep... I was frozen in solid! So had to wait till I warmed the van up. Yet, cuz of my acrobatic training two nights before with the horn going off I now knew how to do it easier and Zippo fluid back into the driver's seat It made for some fun memories but I have asked myself am I getting too old for this type of adventure. And so this video gave me some more food for thought. I'm still leaning hard into just downsizing whole bunch more and going to try it for six months during the summer. But I would like some thoughts about issues in your van where you really can't stand up or getting a one with a pop-up roof so that I can stand up and I'll be a little bit easier on me I'm seeing more more videos of seniors and ones that are actually being able to save money by being on the road I have a feeling though that its government's going to start cracking down because of all the Lost taxes from homeowners and rentersmore than there are millions of campgrounds and I after being raised camping tend to enjoy the privacy of being out in the woods are on the beach hearing the quietness and be able have time with the Lord and hear His bird chorus sing songs in the night Thanks for your candidacy I too have had a couple of knocks or a right spotlight Shone in my face when I pulled in 10 church parking lot and the police officer was just making sure I was safe or is that I realized it really wasn't safe to park where I was. And the other was when I had pulled over off the side of the highway driving over mountain pass just because I was too tired to keep driving and police officer basically was making sure I was safe and said that it was okay for me to get a couple hours rest. So I've had nothing but positive with police officers which is really sad because the way our country has changed and the lack of respect to those that risk their lives every day Thank you so much I feel like it was a good thing that God had you pop up in the middle of my day keep up the good work and I'll be praying for safety for you as well 🌹✨💤
I lived in a van before google maps and camping apps. Of course we used a road atlas, but also certain hard to find books like the Guide to Free Campgrounds, Hot Springs and Pools, and we had to obtain and read topography maps too. We also sometimes had to go into forest service stations and talk with the rangers. All of your nature footage makes me super nostalgic for my time on the road.
@@ChristianSchaffer It's true. It was hard to see so many places get camping regulations that didn't have them before too. For example there used to be some great stops along the 101 that don't allow overnight camping anymore.... but back then it was ok.
Wow, glad I clicked on this video, I'm 11 months out of getting out of military, building a van in the free time, but you are better, smarter than Wikipedia with such a easy and thoughtful english to listen to and you van looks so beautiful and you are dazling as well. Saving this video for future when figuring stuff out on my own will fail me :) ✌️
I totally agree with you. I prefer to live with the Earth as apposed to just live ON the earth. 200 million years, the whole Earth belonged to us, no 'Borders', no 'Keep Out', no 'Trespassing'. I know it was a struggle, but I'm up for that. Loved this video immensely, not for the content alone, but for what the lifestyle represents. What you said "It's really important that we are respectful of the places we pass through and park for the night" is a wonderful statement on our brief life on this fantastic planet. I will place this on all my company literature..loved it.
Keep your favorite spots yours alone. You share so much and give general locations which is enough. Your videos are wonderful and you give such good advice to anyone traveling. Be safe and thank you for share such beautiful scenery.
Wow, legit mind blown. This has to be by far one of the best and most informative/educational videos I've ever watched about the lifestyle. Thank you for sharing! As someone who will slowly be attempting the lifestyle much like yourself with an SUV first, found this super helpful.
Great video Christian:) I'm with you on never staying in paid campgrounds, I think I've paid for camping 3 times the past 12 years lol! I feel like I should be able to sleep on the earth for free if I'm in a vehicle and self-contained. When I'm staying in areas where I might get "the knock", I make sure to arrive close to dark or after dark and be gone by first light. Cya out there!
These just reminds me that there has to be a lot of planning and thought to do it effectively and less stress. People think that one you have a van youre set, not really because one has to oversee other things. This video has provided more clarity, that you so much sis.
I love the part about preparing to sleep in one place then driving to park for the night. I did the same back packing so I wouldn’t cook and sleep in the same spot; it kept animals away!
This is genius. Also a great spot for a meal with a view and a rock to sit on isn't the same as a sheltered, unobtrusive flat space to sleep in. Thank you. You just turned a lightbulb on for me.
I'm not used to giving money to creators, this is the first time actually, but I wanted to buy you a coffee to thank you for taking your time to answer my stupid questions. In addition I learned from a comment that it was your birthday a few days ago, and so we are of the same astrological sign. Last thing, I love the fact that you never ask to press the thumb's up button, which I do all the more gladly. Happy birthday :)
Hi Christian - It’s hard to imagine a time when I wouldn’t be a fan of your work, and it’s safe to say I’m as far from the limits of my imagination as I ever have been! So good job! I suspected, but didn’t realize how new the van phenomenon was. Among my takeaways from this week’s edition (and last week’s for that matter), was the kind of commitment required of those who pursue the van lifestyle. It might be surprising to know, there are probably a few of us out there who are fans of yours because you are someone who lives your dreams: period! You just happen to do it from your van!
After viewing one of your videos, I always think you must be absolutely one of the nicest, kindest and most intelligent young women!!! Thank you for sharing your life😊.
When peep put Reflectix ect on front windows it is so OBVIOUS! I HANG Black curtain behind front seats and DONT Cover front windows! And as u said, get up Early and LEAVE! And if u go to Walmart, go to Bathroom and BUY SOMETHING!
Such a great video, covering one of the most important parts of vanlife. So important to be respectful of where you park. Unfortunately in New Zealand the explosion of living and touring in vehicles has caused huge trash and overcrowding issues, and it is now illegal in most parts of the country to freedom camp unless you are in a CSC (certified self contained) vehicle - meaning bed, toilet, sink, wastewater and freshwater tanks, sufficient for three days. Hopefully the more we can educate people, the less we need to regulate!
Thank you for this I really enjoyed it, especially the storytelling at the end. I will leave now with a solemn promise to never dump a pee bottle in front of anyone’s house or indeed anywhere at all 😁
Seeing the trashed area you found is so heartbreaking and I hate that people who profess to care about nature do this. Thanks for sharing so many great tips!
Great video. I see some people suggest putting a high visibility vest on the sest back and a clip board with 'papers' on the dashboard. This apparently helps the 'stealth' look.
Very informative segment, cheers for that! Re: stealthy-overnight-parking, I have safely done so in my overt overlanding 4x4 near employee parking areas at big box stores that have overnight crews area eg: Home Depot, Lowes, Walmart, etc. Depending on the locality, some of the larger Cabela's and Bass Pro Shops allow overnight parking, call ahead and politely ask. Cracker Barrels are my least favorite spots but I am grateful they are around. I have overnight-parked in Flying J locations in a pinch but rarely slept well. There are just so many more options generally, west of the Mississippi. In states like Montana and Utah, many locals have their own weekend rigs, so respectfully overnight parking in residential areas in Bozeman or Salt Lake City you can easily blend in, especially in younger demographic (hipster) neighborhoods.
I'm about to take delivery of my converted Sprinter 144. Thanks for this wonderful insight into what is for me - like many I guess - the most intimidating part of vanlife ... finding suitable overnight parking. (For now I will not do full-time but keep options open).
While I haven't done a lot of van camping yet, I have never had anyone knock or tell me I couldn't park overnight. You are quite a resourceful young lady and I applaud what you are doing. Hugs from Texas!
This is a great video. I think you hit the nail on the head with the respectful part. We get a number of overnight parkers across the street from us. A few have been pretty stealthy and some leave trash. Just recently found the channel. Have enjoyed the videos.
As always, such a great video! As someone who is about to embark on a similar journey as a solo woman doing vanlife - my biggest anxiety is where to sleep. Also, I am so disheartened by the amount about people who simply don't know how to respect the places they stay. Thank you for shedding light on this - I don't want this life style ruined because of the bad apples. Anyway - thanks for sharing! 💖
Wow! This is the most balanced and levelheaded information on van life and I’ve watched a LOt of TH-cam lol. I completely understand how nature is amazing to appreciate until people, people ruin everything. Thank you for sharing.
I watch your vlogs and I come to the conclusion that you are a very responsible, reasonable and cultured person, which is not so often the case for a person of your age. A pleasure to watch and listen to you. Good luck on your journey and live life on your own terms.👍😀
@@ChristianSchaffer My words were only about my impressions of you, but in the following statement you cannot generalize the rest at your age and I see different behaviors on other vlogs, because I am far from judging others and it is not in my character; do not judge others, live and let others live, but if someone likes my character, I express it. Thank you for your answer and I look forward to further travels.😃
I am with you Christian. I wish ioverlander was never invented. I do my backcountry vanlife in BC and most of my favorite spots that I enjoyed alone are now over run with people and garbage. I spend so much time packing out garbage now. Makes me very sad. Part of the adventure of boondocking is finding a spot just by venturing into the backcountry. No maps needed. Loved the video. Great tips for people starting out. Happy travels!
You gotta be careful, young lady. One disadvantage of camping remotely is that no one sees anything where no one is around. I've been stealth car camping for about 4 years now, 2 to 3 week trips every few months, and I go where my car "blends" in, so as to not stand out, where there are many other vehicles parked overnight, so that's certainly not out in the sticks. I prefer tourist beach areas because tons of people park at hotels near beautiful beaches and security cameras are common. I think it's safer than down some dirt road all alone at night, and I'm a military dude with survival training! I put up my window shades, work on my computer, maybe eat a bit, then get a good nights sleep. I've traveled all over America and believe safety should be the number one priority - now more than ever. Take care!
Yeah, safety first! That goes for anyone who decides to poke around my van in the sticks, too. Like you said, no one sees anything when no one is around 🤓
A tool I have found very helpful in the process of finding a great place to camp is my mountain bike. When there's an area with lots of places to camp it's hard to stop at all the open sites to check them out. The bike makes that easy and also makes it easy to stop and talk to other campers.
Another excellent "inside baseball" video! You're doing the right thing by not sharing specific locations while still sharing the methodology you use to find a good spot. Looking forward to your future uploads!
Love the conservation efforts and morals that went into making this video. Couldn't agree more about your stance on sharing locations and the crowding issue that has littered otherwise pristine locations. It isn't fair for the local families. Thanks for sharing and being real
I have a sticks and bricks home in SoCal but have been traveling the country the last few years in my van. This is the most accurate video I’ve seen on TH-cam that explains and illustrates what the day-to-day basics are when it comes to finding and choosing a place to sleep/camp. As she explained, it can be somewhat challenging and stressful when you first start. It takes some trial and error to feel comfortable enough that you can enjoy the many wonders of traveling without stressing over where you will spend the night. I would suggest most peeps steer clear of Walmart and choose a Cracker Barrel (mostly in the South), or REI, Cabela’s, Bass Pro Shop, even Home Depot or a gym that is open 24hours over Walmart. Thank you Christian, this is a very informative and helpful video.
Great job. Site selection has definitely changed for me over the last two years. Sadly, Walmart is rapidly becoming a hard no for overnighting. This is especially true in the popular states out west. I used to be able to use Costco but not anymore. iOverlander is NOT an option anymore. My rule of thumb - the closer you are to a larger / popular city the more likely I will not be able to stay there. It’s craZy, but some of the folks on this similar journey suck at being human beings. Many people have told me why they do not like van lifers. The stories justify the actions taken. For me, I find a site far away from anything. Arrive later in the evening ready to sleep. I make sure there is zero light projected from my van. To date, I have yet gotten the knock in the city or proximity to a city. Sadly, I was staying at a Walmart one night and a real RV pulled in for the evening. Before the night was over the generator was running, the sides were out and people had their chairs out watching TV. It seems the better stewards we are the less impact we have on communities.
I will forever be mystified by people that literally set up camping chairs in Walmart parking lots. I suppose if I was a board member and/or a large share holder of the company itself…maybe then I would have the nerve to do it? 😅
I so appreciate you sharing the one thing I feel is the most important, leaving the wild better than you found it. I grew up in CA, going backpacking and rarely seeing anyone. Those same places are now not only over camped but are literally dumping grounds. My last visit home, I spent most of the time cleaning up my USED to be favorite spot. So again, thank you for speaking on this.
I really hope that by talking about it more, we can hopefully reverse the trend and inspire people to care. I have to believe that some people just don’t know any better, or don’t think about the impact of their actions 😕
Love the change to talk/chat videos and art awesomeness as separate. I certainly will watch both. This will make watching the art videos more relaxing immersive i expect, which I’m looking forward to. It is so great that it means we hear from you for a chat more often. Thanks for being here!
Howdy, greetings from Europe. Being a van lifer for 5 years I can only concur with everything you say in this video. Thank you for putting the van life challenges into words in this fine way! You Rock🙂🚍👍 Cheers, Ulrik
I don't think I want to ever live in a van. I can may be just go for a 2-3 days trip in a van for the experience of it. But I love your awesome videos. I don't care if you don't give out the names of the places because I love finding places on my own, I just truly value your photography and the exquisite beauty of nature that you show...
Excellent content & a wonderfully helpful overview! My wife and I just spent the month of May in our Recon (NV200 platform). We are loving the adventures and learning as we go. Thank you!
I love hearing about your experiences. I’m on the east coast. Once I’m done exploring the beauty here I’ll head west. You’re right,we don’t have the free boondocking lands, but the state and national parks rock. They often don’t have hookups so you don’t get the awful parking lot big rig vibe. And the beauty… I’m on assateague island right now, surrounded by sand, ocean and wild horses roaming free!
@@ChristianSchaffer Right when I was about to leave this family of 7 horses -- mom, baby , dad, and 4 horses from a previous relationship came grazing through the camp, stopping right next to the van. It was mindbending !! I took a ton of footage but didn't edit yet. I'm gonna apply to be camp host there next year.
Thats excellent...I,m 75,solo female...nomad...4 years in my 18ft.. Skoolie...I,m camphosting...8,000ft in the natl forest...out side,Durango,for 5 months..with wages .did it last year too...super fun job....and I,m the only host...but get two days off. I also do agricultural jobs...big $$$...like yoh,only have paid twice..in four years....because of bad winter storm...I also stealth at churches...daycare centers..a temple..synagog....during covid.....they were All closed....Your videos are extremely helpful,Thnx
admire anyone who can live any kind of alternative lifestyle but everytime I travel I am always so happy I have 4 walls to come home too and have those things that make me feel grounded... I would love to do a 3, 6 months or even a year...but I don't think I could do it without a end date. you rock!
Thanks so much for a great, informative video! I totally agree with you protecting your locations. This is my biggest fear as I hope to hit the road in a few months…finding safe places to sleep. So thanks again for the taking the time to help!
christian, for how beautiful and serious your videos usually are, you really have a great sense of humor. the muzak overdub bit with the question marks (30 x $40) made me laugh so hard. i had rewind, watch (and laugh) again. :) also, thanks for covering the safety part - i have always wondered about that, and wow, you have had some scary situations. i can't even imagine what that would feel like in the moment.
I can see why it’s a tough choice on whether to share specific locations, but I think you really struck the balance well here; give people the tools so they can find their own places, without actually telling them where to go. Excellent 👌🏼
My wife and I only periodically "camp" in our fairly comfortable travel trailer. We stay at KOAs or similar. There are so many people who are now on the road experiencing "nature" that it is common that there are a lot who don't have a clue about taking care of they nature they crave, nor do they care about those like you. But RV dealers are cashing in on the dream. Stay safe in your travels and thank you for the videos.
Thanks for another timely video, Christian. I'm planning to do a fair amount of travelling in the coming months with my van. Places to sleep overnight is my biggest source of anxiety.
That is so true , the anxiety will disappear after a night or so. I am probably a different van lifer ,I do expedited cargo transportation,yeah ,I live in van ,but have to cover a lot of ground to be at specific place ,but when I have time to sleep more than 4 hrs ,I always choose wild and quite places out of city , when I started ,i slept in truck stops ,but after realizing the noice and constant movement, no more. The only thing I can suggest ,get a Pilot truck stop professional driver fuel card ,it's free and every fill up they give free shower, Planet Fitness is good ,but sometimes need a shower where Gym is not around ,the first time I slept in AZ wilderness in dessert,I heard a lot of hyenas laughing and other animals ,but wasn't scare of them,more like imagine that some cartel could hunt me down for body parts lol , but again , some people get robbed in city center , so after a while it's just gets like what's the worst happen ? If it's gonna happen it will happen regardless if you locked inside your apartment,or alone in dessert or mountains , I kinda just let it go after a while ,Safe travels ,and see you down in the road 😊
I'm glad you mentioned industrial areas although a few traveling times ago I was living in a 2000 Buick century and a car with two hispanic men pulled up besides me, the passenger got out and tried opening my driver side door. Luckily I slept in the front seat (it reclined way back) and I startled him.
Woo hoo for the Oregon rest stop shout out you gave us down here hahaha! (Although totally agree... undeveloped sites are worth the effort and the 'stillness' is worth it's weight in gold). Safe travels as always Christian :-)
Thank you for sharing all of this info!! I'm in my second week on the road in my SUV, currently exploring Washington, and while I did extensive research on stuff like this before leaving, it's still nice to hear from someone who's been at this for years. I very much appreciate it. Honestly, regardless of topic, any video is also a nice reminder that I'm not the only solo woman around my age out on the road. Like I know that there are others, but I've never actually come across them when traveling. I haven't exactly felt lonely yet (on this journey so far or on other trips I've taken), but I have felt rather alone in this endeavor, if that makes sense? Anyway, thank you for sharing content in general; it makes me feel a tiny bit less crazy for being out here on my own.
Excellent video. Your comments and tips were extremely valuable. I have a truck camper, (so I am NEVER stealth), but your information gave me more confidence in finding places to stay. So far ( my first season), I have 100% relied on campgrounds, Walmart-type places and renting a site in a trailer park for a month in Florida. Mostly NOT what I wanted with this adventure, but I’ve been too scared to deviate. Sigh!
You offer such good advice. Experence matters and learning from you will make a difference. Travel is all about being prepared and being aware of you surroundings.
Interesting! I totally understand why you are reticent to share spots. Plus let me say I am hugely disappointed in my fellow humans for trashing places and being disrespectful. It ruins it for everyone. Good video!
Just discovered your channel. Presently converting my Toyota 4Runner into a overlander. I sold a casita rv trying to minimize my equipment footprint. Plan traveling the country in search of that one photograph. The info on where you park and how you approach that thought process has been so valuable. Your equipment selection is also so fascinating despite the extra room you have.
This was great--thank you, Christian! Lots of great ideas and experience-borne advice. It was comforting to hear all the safety precautions you take and to know that you listen to your gut (that will never fail you)! I love to listen to your experiences/adventures on the road while still being able to see snippets of the gorgeous footage you have taken along the way. Your videos always bring me great peace. Thank you for that, Christian. May God always bless and keep you safe, happy, and at peace on your journeys. Happy Trails! 😊❤~Russ
Wonderful video. Prompted me to recall more vividly my own adventures learning to stealth park, wild camp, etc. Especially the early times... and some things / knowledge that I've accidentally taken for granted. That said, it's been a few years for me, and this was a good reminder / warning that things have changed along these lines since the onset of the pandemic. e.i. some cherished places from yesteryear may have more company in the vicinity. Thank you!
As always, it's my most joyful moment watching your new vlog. It's just like long waited holidays coming true. Hope you can update your vlogs more often ❤
First time watching, loved the video. A couple of comments on places to stay. I travel in a 40ft motorhome and tow a car trailer and I have never been told I couldn't stay in a Walmart parking lot. But then again, I don't travel in big cities or on interstates. Lately I have been finding that there are a lot of Home Depots that will let you stay the night and some of them will let you stay multiple nights. I do prefer to wild camp but as you can imagine not as easy for me. Thanks for your insight.
Yeah! A vid from Christian. Happy Mom's day to the Moms out there. Been some crazy locations out there but when you see the view you wake up to sometimes it brings joy to your heart and inspiration to your mind. I agree - campgrounds are LOUD places and sometimes people are pretty inconsiderate. Thanks for the video!
Totally agree. Internet has over run the west. 20 years ago you had to actually read not surf. Because is hard no one took the time. Also No one was anywhere because they had to actually read and research or just go out and explore. Unfortunately the genie is now out of the bottle.
All great advice, Christian. I have been on the road for two years. I received one $52 parking ticket in San Diego...only because I neglected to read a nearby sign. So walk around the area and read the posted signs. Use your gut feeling in all areas of parking overnight. In residential areas I'll look for long fences and park. I stay in cities mostly because I love to restaurant hop trying different cuisines. Talking to other "vehicle dwellers" will build up your reference book on safe places to park. I use Planet Fitness to work out and shower. Not all 24 hour PF gyms allow overnight parking (like here in Washington state). Great video!
This was a good and very informative video. For the life of me, though, I cannot fathom why people think it is ok to trash an area and even to put graffiti on the rocks (let alone anything!). I have a lot of respect for the way you protect the places where to stay and I agree with you completely! Also, I understand your reluctance, but if you ever come east, I live near the Great Smoky Mountains and would love to hear what you think about my neighborhood.
Thank you, your clips are refreshing, honest, smart, concise. Comparable in many ways with living on a boat. Have to learn to love it or simply won't last. Shower in the van as simple as a gallon of water with a hole poked in the top and a tarp. Standing in a tarp with the sides up and pouring out the tarp after rinsing and drying. Got tired of going to the gym for a shower as the world is a gym already. I share lots of similar experiences and perspectives as you. I drove rideshare late nights through the pandemic, trailer camped the western states extensively with family growing up, started suv/tarp camping more last year and lived on boats alone for many years.
Great advice, like always. I am still in the process of collecting all the info I can get regarding overnight stays during my Norway trip with my dog. Obviously the rules there are quite different in the sense of being much more camper friendly, however even in the "Camping-Heaven" nordic countries, the so-called "everyman's right" everyone has the right camp anywhere in nature for at least a day, but - what many people don't know - this does NOT officially include camper vans. So, same principle - it still has to be decided by common sense and consideration of the circumstances when making "the overnight decision". Of course, when you want to be filming in nature during the best hours - dusk and dawn - you are so grateful if you can overnight right at the spot...so, I'll just have to try my best to "blend in".
What a great video! I just helped my 23 year old daughter get her first van (2018 Ram ProMaster) and she picked it up this past weekend. Her lease runs out at the end of the month so she’s getting ready to jump into this lifestyle head on. As a dad I’m a bit concerned about what’s in store for her, but this video gave me a bit of piece of mind and I shared it with her hoping she’ll get some good tips. Thanks for taking the time to educate the new comers! Really enjoyed the video ❤
Been thinking about road life for a while and your channel is a great resource. I think I'm going to start making moves in that direction. I appreciate that you talk about the good and the bad. Going to take a week or 2 sometime this year or next to give it a dry run out west and see if it's for me.
Over sharing has definitely caused an issue with a lot of these places, and some people don't need to be campers if they're not a clean person and keep their areas clean also. It's an unfortunate down side to camping.
Thanks for this segment! It's heartbreaking and ironic that people go to pristine nature spots only to leave their trash behind and destroy the very thing they came to appreciate.
You must be talking about those from Massachusetts that drive north to bring trash and mayhem to my state.
Welcome to NH now go home
Wow, you're really surprised that people of pieces of shit?
Such are drug addicts and drunkerds and scumbags, kinda like what’s in our Nations capital right now
My Father from Missouri called them Hillbillies.
Your van is beautiful! No one should leave trash behind. It's disgraceful.
Excellent info Christian! Let me add my 2 cents worth:
1.) Christian has already mentioned this, but it bears repeating. Residental areas whether city, town or very rural -Always prepare your vehicle at another location before going to your parking spot. Just because you have your blackout window coverings up does not mean people know your inside. Your body movements shaking the vehicle will give you away to anyone walking not by you, but anywhere within eyesight or hearing which means looking out there house windows wondering what the strange vehicle is on their street that seems to be bouncing on it's shock absorbers ( if your a couple-that's understandable! 😇).
2.) When you stop for the night - Put your keys in the same location everytime and not left in a pants pocket. When you lay them down place them where they can be picked up as you are moving into the drivers seat. Arrange the keys so that the ignition key is sticking out separate from the others keys so picking them up and getting into the drivers seat is one fast easy motion without fumbling to get the vehicle started.
3.) Park with the vehicle aimed to move quickly without having to reverse to turn out of a parking spot be it campsite or street.
4.) When at a questionable campsite if you choose to stay the night leave nothing outside that you cannot drive off and leave it if you have intruders around the vehicle.
5.) Blackout window coverings using "Reflectex" Nothing says "stealth camping" in a residential area faster then seeing the silver Reflectex in the windows. No matter how dark your window tint is at night an experienced security guard or cop is going to see it through the window tint when their headlights hit your windows!
6.) Leaving windows cracked to prevent the condensation buildup- you can find the plastic "rain shields" that are inserted into the window channels to keep the rain out. These are a godsend not only for the rain, but the average passerby will not see your windows open at the top as they are hidden by the rain shield. Having a skylight air vent is better, but if you haven't got one this idea helps.
7.) Interior lighting - it's going to leak out if it is bright. What I have for stealth camping is dimmable lighting below the window frames mainly just to see things on the deck in my "living room" or read a book in my bed.
8.) I have the idea of installing bright white LEDS lights at or near the doors at eye level that can be flipped on from my bed. The idea is to momentarily blind a curbsucking lowlife scum trying to break open a door. The surprise effect can give precious seconds to get the engine started to drive away.
If any of this helps anyone on the road then it was worth the time to write it.
Amazing, thanks for taking the time to include all of this here! So many helpful tips - especially the rain guards. I had those when living in my suv and they really are an essential for stealth camping 👌🏻
@@ChristianSchaffer Your most welcome. Keep on being yourself - you may question yourself, but you're finding the right answers! West of the Mississippi River is the place to be!
❤😊
thank you. great advice
Great tips!
In almost two years of stealth camping, I got one ticket (fought it and won) and one knock. I’m still kinda shocked at how many park for the night without preparing at a different location first. They blow it for us careful types. Lots of good solid information here. Thank you.
Love that you fought the ticket and won 💪🏻
Face it, it only takes a few to phuq it up for everyone. If this is a shock to you, congrats for being 9 years old. Hope you never grow up and have to face reality.
We camped as kids growing up, my Dad stressed the importance of cleanup in an area we arrived at saying "Always leave a campsite or fishing spot cleaner than when you arrive....' as he helped us pick up trash to haul out. This left a life long lesson we should all strive to do. I was shocked to camp in Kansas, trash was everywhere. I filled a large trash can with garbage that I found all around the edge of a small lake, some aluminum cans had pull top style lids, so they had been there for over thirty years! such a shame. My kids helped me that evening, so they will follow my example. Love your candid videos Christian.
Leading by example 🙏🏻 Thank you
look around America...those "good old days" are long gone.
Good job, Kat!
I grew up like always leave a place nicer, as you found it, leave something nice to the next person / visitor.
Christian, your situational awareness and trusting your gut are indeed superpowers. I worked the overnight shift for many years. We had a saying, “Nothing good happens after midnight”. I’ve tried to teach my kids, especially my daughters, that creeps prefer two things; darkness and no witnesses. I’ve also tried to teach them not to live in fear. Like most things, balance is key. Love that you’re living the life you desire, sharing the beauty of that life with others, while also being honest/authentic about the risks. Stay the course. With close to 300k subs, you’re clearly doing a lot right. Thanks for all you do. Here’s the dad in me coming out….when in doubt, move on!!!
As a person who sleeps in their vehicle on road trips very often, I have realized Planet Fitness parking lots are great if your a member. They are open 24 hours so no one cares if your parked there. Also you can shower and use the bathroom at any point. Never had an issue and they are safer than Walmart parking lots.
As a full time Vanlifer, Planet Fitness has been a staple for us for years.
And many are now refusing us, just as she mentions here and for the same reasons she mentions.
You might want to prepare before you head out for your next vacation.
We full-timers are running out of resources. She is not making any of this up.
Planet Fitness. Walmart….
She could have gone down the list.
Same/Same.
Things have changed. Full timers know.
Please plan accordingly.
@@elizabethm7552 to be fair, I have a hatchback, so I'm not really conspicuous. I just look like a person who is parked there
@@alexpraksti6132 I also have a hatchback - it's great to camp in! Vans are now being scrutinized in parking lots much more than before. "Van Camping" is even being considered in new city ordinances as a prohibited activity. Car camping is the way to go for almost no suspicion. Good job Alex!
@@travelguy1564 Well I know in California if you ditch the van and just live on the street the state will pay you over $1000 a month.
@@scottrose8417turn off Faux News and quit talking out of your ass.
Hey Christian - I liked this episode. I am an old lady (about to be 69 in August) and am about a year out from selling most of what I own, including the house, and hitting the road. There is so, so much planning to do to enter this lifestyle, but I've dreamed of going on the road for years, and I refuse to die while staring at the same four walls. I currently have a Honda CRV, and have been scoping out some of the BLM and Forest Service sites in my area. I live in mid-western Oregon, and it's so beautiful that I'll likely hang out here most of the time and then take random trips to visit friends, attend events, etc. My sister lives about 20 minutes away from me on five acres, and I can park there occasionally and use her address as my home base (so lucky). I may dabble in TH-cam videos, thinking that there may be other old ladies who would find them useful. I'm looking at having a Ford Transit High Roof Extended base with AWD built out by Drifter. It will be expensive, but will have everything my dog, my cat, and I will need. I plan on 5-10 years on the road, or until I'm ready for the old folks' home. I appreciate your willingness to share your experiences, remind us to care for the planet, and to pay attention to our women's intuition. Thanks a bunch, and maybe I'll see you on the trail some day!
Hey, a year's over - any updates? :)
God Bless You, may your journey be wonderful
So cool! How are you doing now?
I completely understand how you can get spooked by the sorts of late night encounters you described. I'm a guy, and I'm big enough and confident enough that nobody has ever tried to start trouble with me. But I've been tent camping a few times when people in trucks will pull up near my tent in the middle of the night and just sit there with their headlights shining on my tent. That freaks me out and there is no way to go back to sleep after that.
That's just weird, something very very wrong with people that do that.
That should tell us something about these people. They are seeing if there is anyone they can potentially abduct, is my best guess. My brother(in Kalispell, MT) and myself in Missoula, MT....have had vehicles with tinted windows pull up and sit nearby our vehicle. Friends and I decided to follow the person or people for a while and they sped way up eventually. I was apparently dealing with a criminal or criminals who didn't want me knowing where they were at or what they were up to. I feel pretty certain these people are looking to see if there is any vulnerable person they can abduct. Or goofballs just messing with people's heads.
😮
You’re a gem, Christian! Thanks for NOT giving out your campsites. People love to ruin everything. If only everyone was as respectful as you.
As someone who is slowly planning vanlife, I greatly appreciated this video. Where and not to park is a concern, which I realize I will have to discover as you said things can change year to year. I will find some spaces to park, show others I am respectful of nature and others around me and ask for good advice.
glad you found it helpful 🙌🏻
Exactly!
Me too slowly planning my vanlife journey.
Thank you so, so much. Am excited.
Don’t forget to pack a gun before you go out on the road . It’s just for safety purposes
I think Christian' connects well here, because she is so on-point with her minimal lifestyle. it means she has clear answers to her own questions - a lesson learned.
thanks Christian. I only lived in my car for about 6 months and it was in between many house/pet sitting gigs, but I got two knocks on my car during that time. one was on the blue ridge parkway in NC, which I knew was technically not allowed, but so many people were doing it and I was told by someone at an outdoors store that it was fine and not a big issue. but the cop came around late in the morning and told me there was no camping on the parkway. the other time was at a trailhead in new mexico, and it was because my car was parked in the wrong direction. i turned it around and the cop wished me a goodnight and moved on. it is definitely easier to find places to park overnight out west.
Off the topic... I love the ever constant smile on your face.
Thank you for being a steward for nature and doing your part to spread awareness and help protect vulnerable ecosystems from the effects of over tourism. I've seen so many places get destroyed where I live and it makes me so sad. More social media influencers need to be responsible and stop sharing specific locations for views. They're driving so much traffic and these places just can't handle it.
Ugh, I totally feel you. I don't understand trashing nature.
I love your take on keeping our land beautiful. It's simple but so many people don't take it seriously. It really angers me sometimes, but keep the positivity going. Christian you are a gem. Love your videos.
🙏🏻🙏🏻
People be people, you know? It is really awful, and I think those of with a conscious just have to carry for those of us who don't. It is depressing, but what can you do? Negative littering for the win.
Well duh buddy I’ve never been with any hott women like her that disrespects others and their property, now them with me is entirely another story
Hospitals are great over night parking areas. Nobody questions a vehicle being there for 8-12 hours
ive seen some hospitals that are just a flat fee to park, doesnt matter how long youre there...and depending on the specific lot no one questions a vehicle there for days even
But very expensive.
Good advise on a number of topics. The end advise to be mindful and respectful can not be overstated. It's way to easy to be inconsiderate. When possible leave the camp spot cleaner than you found it. If most of us did that, there would be nothing left to clean up. Thanks for posting this!
I’m hopeful ☺️🙌🏻
This video is brimming - nay...OVERFLOWING - with road life wisdom, spoken from experience by someone celebrating her five year roadiversary this month. "Vanniversary?" So much good info...so much insight and so clearly-presented. This is high quality content, and beautiful as always. Thanks Christian!
Never EVER answer the door…………….NEVER!!!!!!!
Dear Christian, this video is a class for someone that is looking to start this journey.
I had similar experiences in my previous job when I pickup and delivery motorcycles around the country. Some deliveries was on the Colorado mountains and in my case I wasn’t allowed to park my truck and enclosed trailer, permits only for RV’s and camper trailers.
Thank you again for share your experience in this beautiful and challenging journey!
Keep safe, positive and good energies and bear hug from your fan here.
I bet you’ve seen some beautiful views out there! And props to you for managing a trailer around those mountain roads, I can’t even imagine
@@ChristianSchaffer yeah, no margin for errors towing a 26’ enclosed trailer with a RAM 2500, but one of the most beautiful roads around.
@@Regis019Beck well shoot we are thinking about getting a similar set up to move in, specifically a toy hauler trailer. I’m really worried there won’t be too many places I can get it to to park. But there are two of us. It will not be stealth. But there seems to be no way to people with a lot of stuff, Bikes, kayaks, Music equipment, can live in a stealth vehicle.
I agree with EVERYTHING you said, Christian! I travel mainly in France, as well as in the 8 countries around. Getting away from built-up areas, getting off busy roads, not encroaching on private property, being discreet, respecting places and regulations, trusting your instincts... and it's going well. I just shared, 5 days ago, my morning coffee with 3 gendarmes on patrol on the Franco-Spanish border ! Best wishes !
Thank you for opening up so much in these past two videos. 💚 I completely agree with you and so respect why you wouldn't want to share camp site locations. You give enough information for us to do the rest of the research on our own 😊
Thanks Lidia 🤍
@@TheGreyLineMatters Troll
Great value of info. Casinos are usually a good spot for overnight parking when in a big city if you have to stay.
I am so happy to hear you trust your gut when setting up camp for the night. One of my wife's biggest challenges has always been to trust her instinct. The worst part is her instinct 99.999% of the time is correct. There are too many bad people in this world looking to destroy beauty for someone like you to not trust your instinct. Thank you for your videos, your words of advice and encouragement. You are an inspiring woman.
I like to think my instincts have grown quite strong since moving onto the road. Sometimes they’re inconvenient, but they’ve always served me well
@@ChristianSchaffer I’m happy to hear that. You are an incredible artist and I love watching your videos.
Christian, another great episode, with so much good information! The last two videos should be on a playlist for any would-be van lifers. I have to say though, this one sounds pretty discouraging. How sad that remote camping areas have become so popular, disruptive and trashed that they’re getting closed. Maybe the van life thing will lose its appeal one day, and only people who really care about nature’s beauty and serenity will be able to enjoy the freedom again. Thanks sharing your travels and your experience.
Oh Christian, what a blessing you are
I'm a 78-year young new widow who has been watching you since 2020 the idea of purchasing a van of some type and working to save money by hitting the road
My my hubby at 50 years decided to move to heaven before me I did a no-build build with our Honda Odyssey, did a four night-five day stealth parking, in Lincoln City. I felt so smart.
Two funny things of my alarm going off when wanted to get out and after scramble d to throw my legs over the front seat and screwed down into my driver's seat only to have the alarm go off once I was in place to turn the key on and turn it off!
The next morning because I had left the van unlocked because I was in a safe place so the alarm wouldn't go off but now the van door STILL wouldn't open.!... Reason?
It was January or February... On the Coast and weather went down to the 20,s because it had rained night before... Yep...
I was frozen in solid!
So had to wait till I warmed the van up.
Yet, cuz of my acrobatic training two nights before with the horn going off I now knew how to do it easier and Zippo fluid back into the driver's seat
It made for some fun memories but I have asked myself am I getting too old for this type of adventure.
And so this video gave me some more food for thought.
I'm still leaning hard into just downsizing whole bunch more and going to try it for six months during the summer. But I would like some thoughts about issues in your van where you really can't stand up or getting a one with a pop-up roof so that I can stand up and I'll be a little bit easier on me I'm seeing more more videos of seniors and ones that are actually being able to save money by being on the road I have a feeling though that its government's going to start cracking down because of all the Lost taxes from homeowners and rentersmore than there are millions of campgrounds and I after being raised camping tend to enjoy the privacy of being out in the woods are on the beach hearing the quietness and be able have time with the Lord and hear His bird chorus sing songs in the night
Thanks for your candidacy I too have had a couple of knocks or a right spotlight Shone in my face when I pulled in 10 church parking lot and the police officer was just making sure I was safe or is that I realized it really wasn't safe to park where I was. And the other was when I had pulled over off the side of the highway driving over mountain pass just because I was too tired to keep driving and police officer basically was making sure I was safe and said that it was okay for me to get a couple hours rest. So I've had nothing but positive with police officers which is really sad because the way our country has changed and the lack of respect to those that risk their lives every day
Thank you so much I feel like it was a good thing that God had you pop up in the middle of my day keep up the good work and I'll be praying for safety for you as well
🌹✨💤
I lived in a van before google maps and camping apps. Of course we used a road atlas, but also certain hard to find books like the Guide to Free Campgrounds, Hot Springs and Pools, and we had to obtain and read topography maps too. We also sometimes had to go into forest service stations and talk with the rangers. All of your nature footage makes me super nostalgic for my time on the road.
I bet those were some golden days…fewer people and wild places
@@ChristianSchaffer It's true. It was hard to see so many places get camping regulations that didn't have them before too. For example there used to be some great stops along the 101 that don't allow overnight camping anymore.... but back then it was ok.
Wow, glad I clicked on this video, I'm 11 months out of getting out of military, building a van in the free time, but you are better, smarter than Wikipedia with such a easy and thoughtful english to listen to and you van looks so beautiful and you are dazling as well. Saving this video for future when figuring stuff out on my own will fail me :) ✌️
I totally agree with you. I prefer to live with the Earth as apposed to just live ON the earth. 200 million years, the whole Earth belonged to us, no 'Borders', no 'Keep Out', no 'Trespassing'. I know it was a struggle, but I'm up for that. Loved this video immensely, not for the content alone, but for what the lifestyle represents.
What you said "It's really important that we are respectful of the places we pass through and park for the night" is a wonderful statement on our brief life on this fantastic planet. I will place this on all my company literature..loved it.
Keep your favorite spots yours alone. You share so much and give general locations which is enough. Your videos are wonderful and you give such good advice to anyone traveling. Be safe and thank you for share such beautiful scenery.
Wow, legit mind blown. This has to be by far one of the best and most informative/educational videos I've ever watched about the lifestyle. Thank you for sharing! As someone who will slowly be attempting the lifestyle much like yourself with an SUV first, found this super helpful.
So happy you found it helpful, thanks for watching ☺️🤍
Great video Christian:) I'm with you on never staying in paid campgrounds, I think I've paid for camping 3 times the past 12 years lol! I feel like I should be able to sleep on the earth for free if I'm in a vehicle and self-contained. When I'm staying in areas where I might get "the knock", I make sure to arrive close to dark or after dark and be gone by first light. Cya out there!
Three times! That’s impressive ☺️🙌🏻
These just reminds me that there has to be a lot of planning and thought to do it effectively and less stress. People think that one you have a van youre set, not really because one has to oversee other things. This video has provided more clarity, that you so much sis.
I love the part about preparing to sleep in one place then driving to park for the night. I did the same back packing so I wouldn’t cook and sleep in the same spot; it kept animals away!
This is genius. Also a great spot for a meal with a view and a rock to sit on isn't the same as a sheltered, unobtrusive flat space to sleep in. Thank you. You just turned a lightbulb on for me.
I'm not used to giving money to creators, this is the first time actually, but I wanted to buy you a coffee to thank you for taking your time to answer my stupid questions. In addition I learned from a comment that it was your birthday a few days ago, and so we are of the same astrological sign. Last thing, I love the fact that you never ask to press the thumb's up button, which I do all the more gladly. Happy birthday :)
I am honored, thank you 🥹🙏🏻 and happy birthday, fellow taurus!
Hi Christian - It’s hard to imagine a time when I wouldn’t be a fan of your work, and it’s safe to say I’m as far from the limits of my imagination as I ever have been! So good job! I suspected, but didn’t realize how new the van phenomenon was. Among my takeaways from this week’s edition (and last week’s for that matter), was the kind of commitment required of those who pursue the van lifestyle. It might be surprising to know, there are probably a few of us out there who are fans of yours because you are someone who lives your dreams: period! You just happen to do it from your van!
Thank you, Len 🥲🙏🏻
She’s great and I love her tips and podcasts => but she has traveling house now…..not shaming her => just noting that it’s quite different.
After viewing one of your videos, I always think you must be absolutely one of the nicest, kindest and most intelligent young women!!! Thank you for sharing your life😊.
When peep put Reflectix ect on front windows it is so OBVIOUS! I HANG Black curtain behind front seats and DONT Cover front windows! And as u said, get up Early and LEAVE! And if u go to Walmart, go to Bathroom and BUY SOMETHING!
Such a great video, covering one of the most important parts of vanlife. So important to be respectful of where you park. Unfortunately in New Zealand the explosion of living and touring in vehicles has caused huge trash and overcrowding issues, and it is now illegal in most parts of the country to freedom camp unless you are in a CSC (certified self contained) vehicle - meaning bed, toilet, sink, wastewater and freshwater tanks, sufficient for three days. Hopefully the more we can educate people, the less we need to regulate!
Thank you for this I really enjoyed it, especially the storytelling at the end. I will leave now with a solemn promise to never dump a pee bottle in front of anyone’s house or indeed anywhere at all 😁
😂😂 well then my work here is done
Seeing the trashed area you found is so heartbreaking and I hate that people who profess to care about nature do this. Thanks for sharing so many great tips!
When I finally join y’all on the road. I’m going to want a list of those trashed places. part of my van life goal will be cleaning up those places
That's a great goal
I love that 🙌🏻
Awhhh I LOVE THIS. We need more of this. You are a good soul.
Great video. I see some people suggest putting a high visibility vest on the sest back and a clip board with 'papers' on the dashboard. This apparently helps the 'stealth' look.
Very informative segment, cheers for that! Re: stealthy-overnight-parking, I have safely done so in my overt overlanding 4x4 near employee parking areas at big box stores that have overnight crews area eg: Home Depot, Lowes, Walmart, etc. Depending on the locality, some of the larger Cabela's and Bass Pro Shops allow overnight parking, call ahead and politely ask. Cracker Barrels are my least favorite spots but I am grateful they are around. I have overnight-parked in Flying J locations in a pinch but rarely slept well. There are just so many more options generally, west of the Mississippi. In states like Montana and Utah, many locals have their own weekend rigs, so respectfully overnight parking in residential areas in Bozeman or Salt Lake City you can easily blend in, especially in younger demographic (hipster) neighborhoods.
I'm about to take delivery of my converted Sprinter 144.
Thanks for this wonderful insight into what is for me - like many I guess - the most intimidating part of vanlife ... finding suitable overnight parking.
(For now I will not do full-time but keep options open).
While I haven't done a lot of van camping yet, I have never had anyone knock or tell me I couldn't park overnight. You are quite a resourceful young lady and I applaud what you are doing. Hugs from Texas!
This is a great video. I think you hit the nail on the head with the respectful part. We get a number of overnight parkers across the street from us. A few have been pretty stealthy and some leave trash. Just recently found the channel. Have enjoyed the videos.
As always, such a great video! As someone who is about to embark on a similar journey as a solo woman doing vanlife - my biggest anxiety is where to sleep. Also, I am so disheartened by the amount about people who simply don't know how to respect the places they stay. Thank you for shedding light on this - I don't want this life style ruined because of the bad apples. Anyway - thanks for sharing! 💖
Wow! This is the most balanced and levelheaded information on van life and I’ve watched a LOt of TH-cam lol. I completely understand how nature is amazing to appreciate until people, people ruin everything. Thank you for sharing.
I watch your vlogs and I come to the conclusion that you are a very responsible, reasonable and cultured person, which is not so often the case for a person of your age. A pleasure to watch and listen to you. Good luck on your journey and live life on your own terms.👍😀
Well thank you, but I would say the same for many people my age 🤓
@@ChristianSchaffer My words were only about my impressions of you, but in the following statement you cannot generalize the rest at your age and I see different behaviors on other vlogs, because I am far from judging others and it is not in my character; do not judge others, live and let others live, but if someone likes my character, I express it. Thank you for your answer and I look forward to further travels.😃
I am with you Christian. I wish ioverlander was never invented. I do my backcountry vanlife in BC and most of my favorite spots that I enjoyed alone are now over run with people and garbage. I spend so much time packing out garbage now. Makes me very sad. Part of the adventure of boondocking is finding a spot just by venturing into the backcountry. No maps needed. Loved the video. Great tips for people starting out. Happy travels!
You gotta be careful, young lady. One disadvantage of camping remotely is that no one sees anything where no one is around. I've been stealth car camping for about 4 years now, 2 to 3 week trips every few months, and I go where my car "blends" in, so as to not stand out, where there are many other vehicles parked overnight, so that's certainly not out in the sticks. I prefer tourist beach areas because tons of people park at hotels near beautiful beaches and security cameras are common. I think it's safer than down some dirt road all alone at night, and I'm a military dude with survival training! I put up my window shades, work on my computer, maybe eat a bit, then get a good nights sleep. I've traveled all over America and believe safety should be the number one priority - now more than ever. Take care!
Yeah, safety first! That goes for anyone who decides to poke around my van in the sticks, too. Like you said, no one sees anything when no one is around 🤓
Umm that's why they make guns!
@@THERESISTANCE762 It is best to avoid having a shootout........somebody might get hurt! Avoiding the danger is always a good idea.
Nico💓💞🥰😘😗
A tool I have found very helpful in the process of finding a great place to camp is my mountain bike. When there's an area with lots of places to camp it's hard to stop at all the open sites to check them out. The bike makes that easy and also makes it easy to stop and talk to other campers.
Another excellent "inside baseball" video! You're doing the right thing by not sharing specific locations while still sharing the methodology you use to find a good spot. Looking forward to your future uploads!
Love the conservation efforts and morals that went into making this video. Couldn't agree more about your stance on sharing locations and the crowding issue that has littered otherwise pristine locations. It isn't fair for the local families. Thanks for sharing and being real
I have a sticks and bricks home in SoCal but have been traveling the country the last few years in my van. This is the most accurate video I’ve seen on TH-cam that explains and illustrates what the day-to-day basics are when it comes to finding and choosing a place to sleep/camp. As she explained, it can be somewhat challenging and stressful when you first start. It takes some trial and error to feel comfortable enough that you can enjoy the many wonders of traveling without stressing over where you will spend the night. I would suggest most peeps steer clear of Walmart and choose a Cracker Barrel (mostly in the South), or REI, Cabela’s, Bass Pro Shop, even Home Depot or a gym that is open 24hours over Walmart. Thank you Christian, this is a very informative and helpful video.
Great job. Site selection has definitely changed for me over the last two years. Sadly, Walmart is rapidly becoming a hard no for overnighting. This is especially true in the popular states out west. I used to be able to use Costco but not anymore. iOverlander is NOT an option anymore.
My rule of thumb - the closer you are to a larger / popular city the more likely I will not be able to stay there.
It’s craZy, but some of the folks on this similar journey suck at being human beings. Many people have told me why they do not like van lifers. The stories justify the actions taken.
For me, I find a site far away from anything. Arrive later in the evening ready to sleep. I make sure there is zero light projected from my van. To date, I have yet gotten the knock in the city or proximity to a city.
Sadly, I was staying at a Walmart one night and a real RV pulled in for the evening. Before the night was over the generator was running, the sides were out and people had their chairs out watching TV.
It seems the better stewards we are the less impact we have on communities.
I will forever be mystified by people that literally set up camping chairs in Walmart parking lots. I suppose if I was a board member and/or a large share holder of the company itself…maybe then I would have the nerve to do it? 😅
Thank You, This video's timing is perfect for me, I am starting my new adventure in my van, tomorrow. I take what you say to heart, again, Thank You!
Thank you, probably the best, thoughtful, practical, intelligent advice on TH-cam.
I am about to regain my sanity and commence the lifestyle.👌
I so appreciate you sharing the one thing I feel is the most important, leaving the wild better than you found it. I grew up in CA, going backpacking and rarely seeing anyone. Those same places are now not only over camped but are literally dumping grounds. My last visit home, I spent most of the time cleaning up my USED to be favorite spot. So again, thank you for speaking on this.
I really hope that by talking about it more, we can hopefully reverse the trend and inspire people to care. I have to believe that some people just don’t know any better, or don’t think about the impact of their actions 😕
Love the change to talk/chat videos and art awesomeness as separate. I certainly will watch both. This will make watching the art videos more relaxing immersive i expect, which I’m looking forward to. It is so great that it means we hear from you for a chat more often. Thanks for being here!
Howdy, greetings from Europe. Being a van lifer for 5 years I can only concur with everything you say in this video. Thank you for putting the van life challenges
into words in this fine way! You Rock🙂🚍👍
Cheers,
Ulrik
I don't think I want to ever live in a van. I can may be just go for a 2-3 days trip in a van for the experience of it. But I love your awesome videos. I don't care if you don't give out the names of the places because I love finding places on my own, I just truly value your photography and the exquisite beauty of nature that you show...
🤍🙏🏻
I love the fact that you are generous with your experiences yet secretive about the gems you've discovered.
🙏🏻🙏🏻
Excellent content & a wonderfully helpful overview! My wife and I just spent the month of May in our Recon (NV200 platform). We are loving the adventures and learning as we go. Thank you!
I love hearing about your experiences. I’m on the east coast. Once I’m done exploring the beauty here I’ll head west. You’re right,we don’t have the free boondocking lands, but the state and national parks rock. They often don’t have hookups so you don’t get the awful parking lot big rig vibe. And the beauty… I’m on assateague island right now, surrounded by sand, ocean and wild horses roaming free!
Wow that sounds magical ☺️
@@ChristianSchaffer Right when I was about to leave this family of 7 horses -- mom, baby , dad, and 4 horses from a previous relationship came grazing through the camp, stopping right next to the van. It was mindbending !! I took a ton of footage but didn't edit yet. I'm gonna apply to be camp host there next year.
@@LolaandPooch oh wow! 🤍
Thats excellent...I,m 75,solo female...nomad...4 years in my 18ft.. Skoolie...I,m camphosting...8,000ft in the natl forest...out side,Durango,for 5 months..with wages
.did it last year too...super fun job....and I,m the only host...but get two days off. I also do agricultural jobs...big $$$...like yoh,only have paid twice..in four years....because of bad winter storm...I also stealth at churches...daycare centers..a temple..synagog....during covid.....they were All closed....Your videos are extremely helpful,Thnx
admire anyone who can live any kind of alternative lifestyle but everytime I travel I am always so happy I have 4 walls to come home too and have those things that make me feel grounded... I would love to do a 3, 6 months or even a year...but I don't think I could do it without a end date. you rock!
Thanks so much for a great, informative video! I totally agree with you protecting your locations. This is my biggest fear as I hope to hit the road in a few months…finding safe places to sleep. So thanks again for the taking the time to help!
Once you get through those first few nights, things feel a lot less scary 🤍
Yes! Yes! Yes!
You are spot on Christian!
christian, for how beautiful and serious your videos usually are, you really have a great sense of humor. the muzak overdub bit with the question marks (30 x $40) made me laugh so hard. i had rewind, watch (and laugh) again. :)
also, thanks for covering the safety part - i have always wondered about that, and wow, you have had some scary situations. i can't even imagine what that would feel like in the moment.
haha it’s not often I do math so I had to think extra hard on that one 😂😂
Steve, you never disappoint!
I can see why it’s a tough choice on whether to share specific locations, but I think you really struck the balance well here; give people the tools so they can find their own places, without actually telling them where to go. Excellent 👌🏼
Thanks for taking time to watch ☺️🙏🏻
My wife and I only periodically "camp" in our fairly comfortable travel trailer. We stay at KOAs or similar. There are so many people who are now on the road experiencing "nature" that it is common that there are a lot who don't have a clue about taking care of they nature they crave, nor do they care about those like you. But RV dealers are cashing in on the dream. Stay safe in your travels and thank you for the videos.
Thanks for another timely video, Christian. I'm planning to do a fair amount of travelling in the coming months with my van. Places to sleep overnight is my biggest source of anxiety.
The anxiety subsides pretty quickly, just gotta get through those first few nights 🙌🏻
That is so true , the anxiety will disappear after a night or so. I am probably a different van lifer ,I do expedited cargo transportation,yeah ,I live in van ,but have to cover a lot of ground to be at specific place ,but when I have time to sleep more than 4 hrs ,I always choose wild and quite places out of city , when I started ,i slept in truck stops ,but after realizing the noice and constant movement, no more. The only thing I can suggest ,get a Pilot truck stop professional driver fuel card ,it's free and every fill up they give free shower, Planet Fitness is good ,but sometimes need a shower where Gym is not around ,the first time I slept in AZ wilderness in dessert,I heard a lot of hyenas laughing and other animals ,but wasn't scare of them,more like imagine that some cartel could hunt me down for body parts lol , but again , some people get robbed in city center , so after a while it's just gets like what's the worst happen ? If it's gonna happen it will happen regardless if you locked inside your apartment,or alone in dessert or mountains , I kinda just let it go after a while ,Safe travels ,and see you down in the road 😊
I'm glad you mentioned industrial areas although a few traveling times ago I was living in a 2000 Buick century and a car with two hispanic men pulled up besides me, the passenger got out and tried opening my driver side door. Luckily I slept in the front seat (it reclined way back) and I startled him.
Woo hoo for the Oregon rest stop shout out you gave us down here hahaha! (Although totally agree... undeveloped sites are worth the effort and the 'stillness' is worth it's weight in gold). Safe travels as always Christian :-)
haha Oregon is the place to be 🙌🏻
Thank you for your time sharing your thoughts. Very well thought out video and content! Happy travels…
Thank you for sharing all of this info!! I'm in my second week on the road in my SUV, currently exploring Washington, and while I did extensive research on stuff like this before leaving, it's still nice to hear from someone who's been at this for years. I very much appreciate it. Honestly, regardless of topic, any video is also a nice reminder that I'm not the only solo woman around my age out on the road. Like I know that there are others, but I've never actually come across them when traveling. I haven't exactly felt lonely yet (on this journey so far or on other trips I've taken), but I have felt rather alone in this endeavor, if that makes sense? Anyway, thank you for sharing content in general; it makes me feel a tiny bit less crazy for being out here on my own.
You certainly aren’t alone 🤍 Maybe we’ll cross paths sometime!
Excellent video. Your comments and tips were extremely valuable. I have a truck camper, (so I am NEVER stealth), but your information gave me more confidence in finding places to stay. So far ( my first season), I have 100% relied on campgrounds, Walmart-type places and renting a site in a trailer park for a month in Florida. Mostly NOT what I wanted with this adventure, but I’ve been too scared to deviate. Sigh!
What a great explanation of theory and reality. You are a trooper. All the best.
Thank you Ron 🙌🏻
You offer such good advice. Experence matters and learning from you will make a difference. Travel is all about being prepared and being aware of you surroundings.
Interesting! I totally understand why you are reticent to share spots. Plus let me say I am hugely disappointed in my fellow humans for trashing places and being disrespectful. It ruins it for everyone. Good video!
Just discovered your channel. Presently converting my Toyota 4Runner into a overlander. I sold a casita rv trying to minimize my equipment footprint. Plan traveling the country in search of that one photograph. The info on where you park and how you approach that thought process has been so valuable. Your equipment selection is also so fascinating despite the extra room you have.
This was great--thank you, Christian! Lots of great ideas and experience-borne advice. It was comforting to hear all the safety precautions you take and to know that you listen to your gut (that will never fail you)! I love to listen to your experiences/adventures on the road while still being able to see snippets of the gorgeous footage you have taken along the way. Your videos always bring me great peace. Thank you for that, Christian. May God always bless and keep you safe, happy, and at peace on your journeys. Happy Trails! 😊❤~Russ
Wonderful video. Prompted me to recall more vividly my own adventures learning to stealth park, wild camp, etc. Especially the early times... and some things / knowledge that I've accidentally taken for granted. That said, it's been a few years for me, and this was a good reminder / warning that things have changed along these lines since the onset of the pandemic. e.i. some cherished places from yesteryear may have more company in the vicinity. Thank you!
As always, it's my most joyful moment watching your new vlog. It's just like long waited holidays coming true. Hope you can update your vlogs more often ❤
Working on a travel vlog right now 🥲🙏🏻
First time watching, loved the video. A couple of comments on places to stay. I travel in a 40ft motorhome and tow a car trailer and I have never been told I couldn't stay in a Walmart parking lot. But then again, I don't travel in big cities or on interstates. Lately I have been finding that there are a lot of Home Depots that will let you stay the night and some of them will let you stay multiple nights. I do prefer to wild camp but as you can imagine not as easy for me. Thanks for your insight.
Yeah! A vid from Christian. Happy Mom's day to the Moms out there. Been some crazy locations out there but when you see the view you wake up to sometimes it brings joy to your heart and inspiration to your mind. I agree - campgrounds are LOUD places and sometimes people are pretty inconsiderate. Thanks for the video!
The beautiful views definitely outweigh the rest ☺️
Totally agree. Internet has over run the west. 20 years ago you had to actually read not surf. Because is hard no one took the time. Also No one was anywhere because they had to actually read and research or just go out and explore. Unfortunately the genie is now out of the bottle.
All great advice, Christian. I have been on the road for two years. I received one $52 parking ticket in San Diego...only because I neglected to read a nearby sign. So walk around the area and read the posted signs. Use your gut feeling in all areas of parking overnight. In residential areas I'll look for long fences and park. I stay in cities mostly because I love to restaurant hop trying different cuisines. Talking to other "vehicle dwellers" will build up your reference book on safe places to park. I use Planet Fitness to work out and shower. Not all 24 hour PF gyms allow overnight parking (like here in Washington state). Great video!
I use planet fitness too 🙌🏻
That was incredibly valuable. I admire your balanced views on issues. That's difficult to find these days.
love these recent vids packed with good info and advice, thanks!
Oh....so I'm finally work out the no top-sheet thing, for convenient sleeping angles!! Your work is lovely and varied and increasingly subtle :-)
This was a good and very informative video. For the life of me, though, I cannot fathom why people think it is ok to trash an area and even to put graffiti on the rocks (let alone anything!). I have a lot of respect for the way you protect the places where to stay and I agree with you completely! Also, I understand your reluctance, but if you ever come east, I live near the Great Smoky Mountains and would love to hear what you think about my neighborhood.
I do love the Smokies ☺️🙌🏻
@@ChristianSchaffer Ditto!
Thank you, your clips are refreshing, honest, smart, concise.
Comparable in many ways with living on a boat.
Have to learn to love it or simply won't last.
Shower in the van as simple as a gallon of water with a hole poked in the top and a tarp. Standing in a tarp with the sides up and pouring out the tarp after rinsing and drying.
Got tired of going to the gym for a shower as the world is a gym already.
I share lots of similar experiences and perspectives as you. I drove rideshare late nights through the pandemic, trailer camped the western states extensively with family growing up, started suv/tarp camping more last year and lived on boats alone for many years.
Great advice, like always. I am still in the process of collecting all the info I can get regarding overnight stays during my Norway trip with my dog. Obviously the rules there are quite different in the sense of being much more camper friendly, however even in the "Camping-Heaven" nordic countries, the so-called "everyman's right" everyone has the right camp anywhere in nature for at least a day, but - what many people don't know - this does NOT officially include camper vans. So, same principle - it still has to be decided by common sense and consideration of the circumstances when making "the overnight decision". Of course, when you want to be filming in nature during the best hours - dusk and dawn - you are so grateful if you can overnight right at the spot...so, I'll just have to try my best to "blend in".
What an epic adventure that will be 🙌🏻
What a great video! I just helped my 23 year old daughter get her first van (2018 Ram ProMaster) and she picked it up this past weekend. Her lease runs out at the end of the month so she’s getting ready to jump into this lifestyle head on. As a dad I’m a bit concerned about what’s in store for her, but this video gave me a bit of piece of mind and I shared it with her hoping she’ll get some good tips. Thanks for taking the time to educate the new comers! Really enjoyed the video ❤
Been thinking about road life for a while and your channel is a great resource. I think I'm going to start making moves in that direction. I appreciate that you talk about the good and the bad. Going to take a week or 2 sometime this year or next to give it a dry run out west and see if it's for me.
Woo! Stoked for you ☺️🙌🏻 And really happy to hear these vids are helpful
lots of good info!Thanks for not oversharing for obvious reasons