HOW TO STEALTH CAMP IN URBAN AREAS

Stealth Camping Tips

This is a good way to save money when your traveling and just want to get some sleep

Basically it means that you park your vehicle someplace where it will blend in and you sleep there.

If you Google “Vandwelling” or “Stealth Camping” you can find many sites devoted to this type of lifestyle.

Some states are more tolerant of urban campers than others and it helps to know the regulations for wherever you plan to try this.

For instance, if you were in a state that allowed overnight parking in their rest areas you could just go park there, for the rest of the night.

Or you could find a truck stop or Walmart.

Important tips I’ve learned from searching some of the websites and personal experience 

1) Be sure that your vehicle blends in. If you’re driving a beat up old van and park on a street with lots of nice cars— you’re going to draw attention. If you have suitcases bungee corded to your roof rack— you’re going to be noticed. If you get in and out of your van lots of times or turn the lights on, inside, or use your laptop or television with large screen you might get unwanted attention.

2) When you’re ready to sleep for the night, drive to your spot, keep the lights out and got right to bed. Don’t put your tent on the back of your van or your window screen over the passenger window. You want your vehicle to look just like everyone else’s. Provide yourself with whatever ventilation you can without compromising your safety.

3) A plastic 5 gallon bucket with some kitty liter will take care of middle-of-the-night bathroom requirements. I like to park near a 24hr place, like a gas station, diner, and use their bathroom, if needed.

4) Don’t sleep nude, If law enforcement officer/security gaurd knocks on your window with his baton it would be nice if you were wearing something that allowed you to jump straight into the driver’s seat allowing you to get out of there.

5) Curtains on the windows are pretty much a requirement. Black out curtain for the back seperating the cab/front seats works best. Reflextix cut to the shape of each window and affixed with velcro works great or cut to fit. 

The most important thing to remember is BE SAFE! If a place doesn't feel safe, if your gut tells you this is not a good place, move and find a better place.

Happy Trails, there is so many beautiful places to see.