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The Ultimate Guide to Stealth Camping in a Van in 2024

• Last Updated: November 17, 2023

Wondering what you need to know to be successful stealth camping in a van? We’ll cover all the basics so you can stealth camp like a champ!

When you live in a van full-time , camping will eventually require bending the rules and sneaking a night’s sleep. Stealth camping your way through major cities or minor pit stops will save you hundreds of dollars and could seat you in the heart of the action. Or it could leave you twenty miles away at the nearest Costco. 

Many municipalities that don’t explicitly outlaw overnight parking still won’t take kindly to a loud campervan taking up residential or business spaces. Even if you’re just heading out for the weekend, you may be forced to lay low for a night or two on your way to your final destination. 

We’ve got the best tips for stealth camping and finding free overnight parking out there for you today. This guide will cover it all – from building your van with stealth camping in mind to stealth camping tips once the sun is setting.

Follow along, learn the ropes, and you’ll never be too far from a great night’s sleep. 

Table of Contents

Why Stealth Camp?

Leave no trace, don’t overstay your welcome, absolutely no activity outside the van, corporations , rest stops and gas stations, residential streets, harbors and boat ramps, national forests, meet the community, # vanlife apps, read local signs, actually, it starts with the right van, blend in by sticking out (“wealth camping”), be totally self-contained , manage the lighting, don’t hook anything to the outside (yes, that means stickers), show up before sunset, sleep and go, exit from the front, stay inside, be ready for takeoff, trust your instincts, what is stealth camping in a van.

Any van is a stealth camper van if you spend the night where you’re not supposed to. Typically the idea of stealth camping is when you park overnight in a neighborhood or side street where you will blend in with other parked cars.

First the good news: While it often involves some private property, stealth camping doesn’t have to mean breaking the law. Most van-lifers define stealth camping as sleeping outside of designated camping or boondocking areas without drawing any attention to yourself. 

Whether that means leaving the van parked on the side of city streets, in a quiet corner of residential areas or in the parking lot of an industrial park, the concept remains the same. The goal is to get a great night’s sleep without bothering the neighbors. 

Stealth camping is an art form, equal parts guts, preparedness and a splash of luck. Some van lifers spend entire months stealth camping and taking advantage of gym memberships to live in expensive cities. While others hear the dreaded knock right as they’re drifting off to sleep. 

Nobody is expecting you to make your van completely disappear. Sometimes the best stealth camping spots require hiding in plain sight. It’s more about laying low, not drawing unnecessary attention to your rig and, most importantly, respecting the locals. 

The usual answer is affordability. There is no such thing as paid stealth camping. Every spot you sneak into will be free. Crowded campsites are charging $30+ a night for sometimes nothing more than a piece of concrete.

And with so many people RVing, finding a formal place to camp is becoming more and more difficult. In retaliation, more campers than ever are turning to car camping in hotel parking lots or whichever dark corner fits their rig. 

Stealth camping is good for more than just your wallet. Van dwellers are seeing a slowly shrinking map of true freedom camping. Try finding a free dispersed camping spot free in the Eastern United States on the Fourth of July weekend. 

Learning these tips and tricks for stealth camping will have every city within reach, leaving a light on for you for decades to come. The difference between a night unperturbed and being disturbed can be slim, and it only takes one trash bag full of wet wipes from a disrespectful van dweller to shut down a corner.

So let’s take a closer look at the protocols.  

Unspoken Rules of Stealth Camping

Rules and regulations can oftentimes feel cumbersome. Some of the most beautiful coastal and mountain routes are often the most regulated, and police officers are starting to learn every trick in the book. As much as we hate to hear it, all these rules are a direct response to unruly van campers who have ruined a spot for the rest of us.

The more we break the rules, the harder it will be to enjoy stealth van living and van life in general. So take a few minutes to understand your side of the bargain – before we get banned from more truck stops and grocery stores.

To keep as many spots open and unregulated for overnight parking as we can, every van lifer should incorporate some tactics of stealth camping into their everyday van life routine no matter where you’re boondocking. 

Well, one tactic in particular: leave no trace . 

It should go without saying that a rule for every van dweller when it comes to camping is to ensure that once you leave a spot nobody can tell that you were ever there. Leaving no trace should be the number one goal of every night spent away from the confines of an immobile roof. 

Nothing gets the “No overnight street parking” signs out faster than a stealth camper leaving trash. 

There are 7 steps of the program that are relevant on every single night you spend in your van: 

• Plan Ahead and Prepare 
• Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
• Dispose of Waste Properly
• Leave What you Find
• Minimize Camper Impacts
• Respect Wildlife
• Be Considerate of Others

Leave no Trace should be a crucial three-word phrase in any traveler’s mind at all times, whether you’re camping in a van in a busy city or miles out in the middle of the wilderness.

Depending on the details of your parking lots, there are a few implied lengths of your stay. Any stealth camping at a business where overnight parking is allowed, you are expected to be out before noon the following day.

You should also consider making a quick trip inside the proprietor’s store to make purchases that support their business. Residential camping is a bit looser, but you should still be gone by the light of the third day on the same street.

Most neighborhoods and businesses won’t mind looking the other way on someone trying to get a good night’s sleep inside their van. But setting up camping chairs, cooking outside, or playing music is an easy way to make enemies. 

Even if you’re stealth camping spot is in a business that will allow overnight parking, setting anything up outside of your van is a quick way to ruin it for everyone. 

Best Places To Stealth Camp

Now that you know the unspoken rules of stealth camping let’s put them into action. Remember that no matter where you go, try not to draw attention to yourself, and leave early.  

Places like Walmart , Canadian Tire, Bass Pro Shops, Cracker Barrels, and many truck stops have official overnight parking policies in place. That takes most of the ‘stealth’ out of the equation. But these spots are as free as can be, so they’re often a no-brainer on your way to a final destination. 

There is no easier way to guarantee a great night’s sleep than chatting with the store manager to make sure your chosen location can allow overnight parking.

You would think that every rest stop in the country allows overnight parking. But the rules vary state by state. Make sure you understand the laws where you are before you set up shop in broad daylight. 

Truck stops and gas stations along major highways may let you rest your head a while. But be sure to fill up with gas while you’re there and inquire inside.

How good of a character judge are you? There is no set method for picking out streets that won’t mind overnight parking. But the proper residential neighborhoods won’t bat an eyelash over a Class B camper parked on the side of the road for a few days. You can always arrive late leave early and enjoy a great free spot to park overnight.

Stealth campers often look for roads with ample street parking and find a parking spot that only faces houses on one side. The more cars the merrier as it is easier to blend in this way.

Easy to blend in, and if you’re a member, these spots come with free showers, a security guard, and plenty of other parked cars to hide behind. Depending on whether you plan to stay within a certain geography or travel across the entire continent, some gym memberships will be more beneficial than others.

City parks can be hit or miss. At this point, most small towns across the country have some sort of regulations against sleeping in city parks. Still, if you find a welcoming village, you’ll have a stealth camping spot that rivals any campsite. 

If you’re trying to figure out the legality of a specific city park, work backward. If there is no sign explicitly prohibiting stopping overnight, you’re in the clear.

The only exception to this rule is city parks near schools. Avoid RV parking anywhere near a school building at all costs.

Fishermen work odd hours, which can work in your favor. This can be better for a basic camper van or a cargo van that blends in better. And these parking lots are always open and fishers don’t mind sharing the cement as long as you keep it down.

Just make sure you’re gone by Sunday. It’s best to ask permission before setting up shop here and don’t take advantage of the congregation’s hospitality. That means don’t overstay your welcome.

While this is technically dispersed camping or boondocking, any guide on where to park your van should mention national forest land. You may have noticed there is no free place to sleep inside of any national parks, but forests are different.

Here, the government encourages freedom camping and in some states will allow you to camp wherever you want within forest grounds.

How To Find Stealth Camping

Take these tips into mind and get your cars parked with plenty of patience. No matter where you’re pulling in you should budget some time to look things over and feel comfortable in your new space. It won’t always click the first time.

There’s no technique better than word-of-mouth for finding a few hidden gems. The van life community is known for being incredibly welcoming and unafraid to share a wealth of information.

City stealth camping will vary significantly from town to town. No matter where you are, the best-kept secrets are probably found offline. 

Folks in their van generally tend to be more helpful than the average citizen. They may not mind it if you respectfully start a conversation and ask for some tips, especially if you show them your rig. 

Talk to your friends who have been there before or local online message boards before you get somewhere, and they will at least give you a good place to start your search. If you’re totally unsure of your surroundings, it can help to look for other vans parked doing the same thing. 

A great way to differentiate cargo vans from stealth van life is to look for a stuffed roof rack, solar panels, or any fans.

Internet applications like iOverlander , FreeRoam and freecampsites.net have thousands of spots marked off worldwide. These applications all rely on user input to develop a database of all sorts of stealth camping and R.V. living information.

Other cars who have taken the very same route in the past are bound to have reported a few options. Van lifers love to let people know about a new secret spot.

Check for updated reviews and comments from within the last year to ensure that you’re not heading into a trap. Commenters will frequently update listings with the latest closures, and the maps are constantly changing. Chances are a spot that hasn’t been reported on in several years has either shut down or is impossible to find. 

There is an app for everything you could need while boondocking. From water to showers to great stealth camping spots, you’ll be sure to find the closest places to your destination. 

Every inch of the country has been marked, labeled and fought over. So expect to see a fair share of “no overnight camping” signs with varying degrees of how they are enforced.

Apartment complexes can seem like goldmines, but landlords are quick to tow, so tread lightly. Once you hit private property all bets are off.

Every municipality may have different rules and regulations than its neighbors, so pay attention to signs anytime you enter a new city. Any county that has made overnight parking illegal will be sure to let you know as you drive in. 

If you can’t seem to run into many van dwellers, and can’t find any tips for stealth camping or parking lot reviews online, maybe that’s a hint. Being in a town for a week and seeing no one else living out of a van is a good indicator you need to leave that town ASAP.

Prepare Your Van During The Van Build Process

Just like every aspect of the van life, stealth camping starts at home. So if you plan to do a lot of stealth camping, building the right van is the first best step you can make to blend in anywhere.

Before you drive your conversion vans home from the lot, you’ll already have made the most critical decision of the stealth camping process. That is, which campervan is best for blending in while still providing a livable space?

The three most popular van styles – Mercedes Sprinter, Ford Transit, and Dodge ProMaster – all share the same chassis and color as a typical work van and they strike an outstanding balance between stealth and standing room. 

Nowadays, there are only two types of sprinters on the road: ones with the Amazon logo on them or stealth campers, and it’s tough to fool anyone with a Sprinter van with a roof fan anymore. Hardcore stealth vans will have low roofs to thoroughly blend in, but that comes at a severe loss of interior space. 

Pick your van based on standard cargo vehicles and choose a simple white exterior color scheme. You’ll be on your way to sleeping wherever you decide to stop for the night. 

Stereotypes rule the day. The van you’re driving will impact your chances of stealth camping. A cheeky technique frequently employed by stealth campers who take comfort seriously is hiding in plain sight with a classic Class B R.V. 

You can’t judge a book by its cover, and you certainly shouldn’t assume based on the model year, but the truth is harsh. Pull up in a 2004 Chevy Express covered in rust, and the neighbors will be more inclined to call the cops. But pull up in a well-maintained vintage Westfalia, and the neighbors will ask for a tour. 

We’re not saying that you have to have a $100,000+ van before you can plan on stealth camping. Just know that we live in a day and time when if you look like you might pose a threat, it is assumed that you will be one.

We jokingly call this concept “wealth camping.” Because the newer and/or nicer vans are less likely to trigger a call to the police than an older, more rugged one.

You can open up whole new worlds for your adventure by taking a bit of extra time during your build to map out a septic system. Anything as simple as a composting toilet or as complex as a blackwater system will get the job done and reduce trips outside. 

All it takes is one midnight trip to the bathroom to blow your cover. So make sure you build your van out in a way that you can cook, wash the dishes, and use the restroom without having to open any doors. 

Take a few good solid looks at your campervan from the outside on a clear night. Any small gap between your curtains and the window has the potential to blow your cover. So make sure you’ve got a shade for every single window in your rig. 

Even with the right curtain game, bright white lights will leak through your barrier. Bring along a simple set of dimmable LCD string or fairy lights to have a dim option at night. 

In addition to interior curtains, you might want to think about tinted windows. This simple upgrade has the added benefit of helping keep the sun’s rays out of your interior space. Tinted windows will also act as a theft deterrent preventing could-be criminals from seeing inside.

The more flashy bits and pieces to your exterior, the more heads will turn as they walk by, which is the opposite intention of stealth camping. Keeping your exterior as ambiguous as possible will help push forward the work truck illusion most modern Class B campers strive for. 

No one will believe a straightforward contractor’s van has made it to 25 state parks and 15 scenic overlooks. So don’t stuff your windows full of stickers marking your trip. Save these for your water bottle. 

On the Road

The work doesn’t stop once you leave the driveway. These steps will help you keep a low profile once you’ve made it to your stealth camping destination. 

There are a few different schools of stealth camping thought. Some risk-takers like to show up to their target sleeping spot late at night to reduce the risk of being noticed. But there is a more cautious approach. 

Especially for your first few nights, ideally, you’ll have dinner done and your van ready for bed before the sun goes down. The fewer lights and movement you need at night, the better, as they become much more apparent. 

Once you get the hang of stealth camping, you can bend the rules a bit and show up late with confidence. But it is still a good idea to have everything set up before sunset. The later it gets, the more desperate you are to find a place and turn the engine off, which is the wrong mentality while stealth camping.

It’s also easier to miss a few details at night, such as a sign that explicitly prohibits overnight sleeping.

Don’t hang around waiting for someone to tell you to leave. You haven’t successfully stealth camped until you’ve pulled out of your spot without being noticed. So plan on taking your breakfast to go and getting out of dodge as soon as you can. 

While your van is parked at your stealth camping spot, try to avoid opening up the back or side door whenever possible. No contractor constantly steps out of the back section of their van.

Opening up those big sliding doors gives everyone on the street a full-sized view of your interior. Instead, only use the front doors for entrance and exit, so all the people notice is standard car stuff.

Stealth Camping Safety Tips 

It’s not always easy to fall asleep while stealth camping. There are a few more variables at play than you may be used to. The last section of our guide will explore ways to feel peace of mind while parked behind a department store. 

There are several good reasons not to be wandering around your camper’s exterior in the middle of the night. As well as helping you to remain stealthy, staying inside your van is the safest way to stealth camp. 

As long as you’re self-contained, you won’t need to get out of your van for any reason.

Don’t leave knick-knacks lying around and a bag of rice open on the counter. Ideally, you’ll be waking up in the morning, checking the traffic, and swinging around into the driver’s seat.

The fewer steps between you and the open road, the better. If something happens and you do have to take off in the middle of the night, you won’t want to mess with your leveling blocks before you gun it. 

It’s normal to get a bit jumpy when pulling into a spot you’re unsure about, especially after dark. Still, it’s not normal to spend the night nervously staring out the window. The van life involves plenty of listening to our intuition, and a (hopefully unopened) can of bear spray.

If you pull into your spot and it all feels off, don’t stick around and try to force it. Chances are, nothing will happen. But if your gut is telling you to move on, you may as well start the engine. 

You’ll quickly learn to spot a few telltale signs that will reassure you about the safety of a particular location and a few signs you need to move on. 

While it’s important to listen to your instincts, it’s also essential to prepare for a bit of failure. The only way to learn it all for yourself is trial and error, and a few knocks are all part of the game.

Use this guide to set you on a path toward free nights under the stars, and don’t let one bad experience scare you off from stealth camping permanently. 

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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Stealth Camping: The Complete Guide To Stealth Van Living In The City And Working Full Time

• Last Updated: April 27, 2024
• 25 minutes read

Van life has been a growing phenomenon in recent years, particularly as advancements in technology, the prevalence of WiFi, and a growing list of relevant applications and services for vanlifers have become more available.

About half of the people who participate in vanlife do so full-time, and find ways to make a living and live cheaply while on the road.

For those that live on the road full-time to others that travel in a van for a shorter period of a few months, stealth camping is a great way to overnight for free in cities and towns across the globe.

We’ve often been asked, ‘What exactly is stealth car camping?’ From phrases like ‘stealth van living’, there’s a lot of terminology to contend with whether you’re a Living in a van full time or just starting out.

If you’re looking for information on how to travel to cities in your RV, Van, Trailer and STEALTH CAMP successfully, you’ve come to the right place.

Here’s In this post, we’re going to answer everything you need to know about stealth camping, including what it is, stealth van living tips, picking the right stealth camper van, finding a good stealthcamping location and, most importantly, whether it is legal or not!

What is Stealth Camping?

Stealth camping really is exactly what it sounds to be; camping overnight in your SUV, vans or truck camper in an area that is not designated for camping. Stealth camping can be overnighting on a residential or city street, or sleeping in your car after parking off-road on public land.

In the central U.S. and other remote areas of the country, you can camp for free on BLM (Bureau of Land Management) land or in the national forests, and about 50% of vanlifers use this option for camping.

But what if you want to see the amazing cities this country has to explore? Around 14% of vanlifers sleep for the night on city streets and parking lots, while 7% find a parking spot in residential neighborhoods.

For the hardcore stealth campers out there, the only camping that counts as ‘stealth’ is the kind in urban areas where you’re not technically supposed to sleep in your car.

Public land that has been designated for free camping “doesn’t count”, and neither does the Walmart parking lot where the store manager gave you the thumbs up.

However, the tips and suggestions in this guide would apply for approved vanlife camping as well as the more extreme stealth camping situations where you’ve parked on a street in the middle of a city. 

When is it a Good Idea to Stealth Camp in Your RV?

Stealth camping is an excellent way to overnight in new places for free (or extremely cheap). If you have the courage to try it, it can be a very good way to travel and save money. It is only a good idea to stealth camp in urban settings if you have the right stealth camper van, though.

Some forms of remote or wilderness stealth camping are better with a tent, but you should probably avoid sleeping in a tent in urban environments because you’ll likely appear to be homeless.

Generally speaking, it’s a good idea to stealth camp in a city when you can find legal parking in a safe, well-lit spot, and you’re passionate about traveling.

If you have a taste for adventure and you’re willing to try unorthodox methods of seeing the world, stealth camping may be an excellent way for you to travel.

When is it a Bad Idea to Stealth Camp?

If you don’t own or can’t afford a van or car capable of stealth camping in the city without being conspicuous, stealth camping is probably a bad idea.

Again, you may be able to find some spots to stealth camp in urban areas in your tent, but you may get into trouble with the police or homeless individuals who are living on the streets.

Stealth camping is also a bad idea if it brings chaos into the rest of your life, such as disrupting your work or making it hard to meet your obligations to your family.

For digital nomads and solo or couple travelers without kids, however, stealth camping can work very well as a way to see the country while on a minimalist budget.

Is Stealth Camping Illegal?

Stealth camping is not necessarily illegal. However, you should always check state laws to make sure that sleeping in your car is not illegal in the state in which you’re planning to stealth camp. You should also avoid areas where signs prohibiting overnight parking are posted, since you’ll either be asked to move by security or police patrols, or you may even find yourself with a parking citation or even a boot when you wake up in the morning.

At worst, your vehicle may be towed while you’re sleeping inside.

Never park in areas where “Private Property” or “No Trespassing” signs are posted, since you cannot feign ignorance if you get caught and you probably WILL get caught.

Can I Get a DUI if I Drink in My Vehicle Before Sleeping?

In many states, you can get a DUI if you’ve been drinking before settling down for the night to camp, but there are a couple of things you can do to to mitigate this risk:

Sleep in the back of your car, not the driver’s seat 

For a police officer who is concerned that you might be under the influence, it’s all about the appearance of intent to drive while intoxicated.

If you sleep in the back and take measures to make it harder for you to drive, your chances of avoiding a DUI will be stronger.

Some ideas include moving the driver’s seat forward so that you couldn’t just climb forward to drive away, and put things on it to further obstruct your driving abilities.

Don’t leave the keys in the ignition

This follows the appearance of intent to drive idea, and keys in the ignition looks pretty strongly like you’re planning to drive. Instead, keep them in a secure spot but not necessarily on your person.

Sometimes you can still be charged with a DUI for sleeping in the back of your parked car after drinking, even if you clearly had no intent to drive.

Since this is the case in all fifty states, it’s best to find a local DUI attorney to argue your case if you get charged with a DUI.

Which is Better, Stealth Camping or Campgrounds?

While campgrounds often have facilities such as restrooms, showers and sometimes coin-op laundry, there’s always a nightly fee for overnighting in these establishments.

Alternatively, stealth camping is usually completely free, provided you don’t get caught and stuck with a fine or jail time.

Stealth camping can also be done almost anywhere, from busy cities to remote land. Campgrounds are typically few and far between in the heart of cities, which are popular destinations for vanlifers who want to travel the country on a budget.

The experience of stealth camping can be a bit of a rush, even if you don’t get caught.

You can find interesting and often beautiful campsites for one night only, and although you shouldn’t stay for the daylight hours, these locations can offer a nice view when you first wake up in the morning.

You also won’t get bored with your camping spot if you’re staying in a different one every single night.

However, some vanlifers may get fatigued with the constant shuffle and uncertainty that comes with stealth camping night after night, and may want to break it up with a couple of nights’ stay at an established campground to change things up and have a break.

How To Stealth Camp

Successful stealth camping isn’t really something you can do without a little bit of research, the proper vehicle and gear, but luckily, this guide should have everything you need to sleep stealthily in your car, van or RV in the city.

Choosing the Right Vehicle for Stealth Camping

As you might expect, it’s pretty hard to be stealthy if you’re overlanding in a converted Greyhound bus or even an RV. Vans, SUVs, and even small buses are far more covert for stealth camping.

To keep your vehicle in optimal condition for parking overnight without suspicion, you should skip the stickers, decals and other identifying details because the goal is to be as unnoticeable as possible.

Power and ventilation are essentials of vanlifing, but for stealth camping purposes, you should outfit your rig with low-profile fixtures to remain unnoticed. 

A plain white utility van is an optimal stealth camping vehicle because it would have enough space for a bathroom, bed and living space, without being so large as to be an obvious camper.

Passenger vans and SUVs can also make good stealth campers, however, they are smaller and may not have enough room for a bathroom set up.

You should also do your best to keep your vehicle clean and orderly, inside and out. A clean vehicle doesn’t raise much suspicion.

Even if someone thinks you might be sleeping inside, a van with a tidy exterior won’t make them feel nearly as uncomfortable as a beat-up car that looks like someone is living in it.

If you get caught, a tidy interior communicates the same stability to the police or a security patrol, and you’re more likely to get a slap on the wrist instead of a fine or jail time.

Pack Your Must-Have Stealth Camping Gear

In addition to the right vehicle, you should equip your urban stealth camper with some essential gear so that you can be the most inconspicuous as you overnight in the city:

Blinders or dark curtains for all windows (Reflectix should be avoided unless it’s covered in a dark fabric, since it’s shiny and reflects light)

Fan or sunroof for good airflow and reduced condensation – add screens if you’ll be in an area with mosquitos or other bugs

Dim light source that you can use very briefly in a pinch

Defensive tool such as a whistle, taser or pepper spray (to use if someone tries to break into your vehicle while you’re sleeping inside)

Designated water bottle or closed container for urinating inside your vehicle in an emergency, if you don’t have a bathroom or composting toilet (empty it in a public restroom)

Safety Tips for Stealth Camping

Safety is important whether you’re stealth camping out in the wilderness or in the heart of a city, but urban stealth camping can carry additional safety risks.

A bear isn’t going to be able to break into your vehicle, but a person could. Be sure to follow these tips to stay safe when you park for the night in the city:

Be aware of your surroundings

Scope out your parking spot in daylight before you stay there, if you can, then come back later (after dark) when you’re ready to sleep.

Note how busy the nearby roads are, whether there are lots of people walking around, and if there’s a lot of trash or other signs of less-than-ideal goings-on.

Park Your Van or Car in well-lit areas

Although you’re trying to fly under the radar, the last thing you want is for someone to try to break into your stealth van while you’re sleeping inside..

By choosing parking lots or city streets that have good lighting, you can increase your safety and still camp stealth – as long as you have dark curtains or privacy panels to hide that you’re inside.

Pro tip: If your windows are tinted, street lights will reflect off of them to hide the fact that you’re sleeping inside the vehicle even more than they would on a dark street.

Have an exit

As tempting as it may be to huddle up inside your vehicle and go right to sleep, you should always make sure you have an exit, and ideally, more than one.

Don’t block all of the doors so that you’re trapped in your vehicle. If the police or security comes knocking, you’ll want to present a tidy living space.

And if a burglar attempts to gain access or a tow truck starts hooking up your car, you will want to be able to get on the move again quickly.

Keep your keys within reach

Although you shouldn’t keep your keys on your person if you’ve been drinking before going to sleep to avoid getting a DUI if you’re caught by the police, you should always have them handy.

Hang the key ring from a carabiner or hook that’s near your exit so that you don’t have to go hunting for your keys if you get a knock on the door or you want to dart away in the wee hours of the morning.

Rotate parking spots

Both for inconspicuousness as well as safety, you should never stealth camp in the same spot twice in a row.

If you’re planning to be in a city for a couple of weeks, scope out several different options for overnighting, and rotate through them.

If you get caught at one of them, cross it off your list and don’t return. This is also important to prevent would-be burglars from having the time to case your car and rob you.

Don’t leave your vehicle unattended for long periods

When you’re camped in a city, you may be tempted to park your overnighter rig in a park or somewhere for free, then leave it all day while you explore the city on foot or by public transportation or Uber.

However, this can be unwise in an urban environment where car prowlers are more common and experienced.

You might come back to find your ‘home’ ransacked and valuable gear or equipment missing.

Never leave valuables in your vehicle

It should go without saying, but some vanlifers get comfortable and forget that car prowlers and thieves are always on the hunt for an easy grab.

Never leave laptops, tablets, wallets, cameras and other valuable items on view in your car, and you should try to avoid leaving them in your vehicle at all.

If you must leave them behind to explore the city, don’t put valuables all in one spot and make sure they’re not visible from any windows.

You might consider using some or all of your privacy curtains or window covers to help keep things covered.

Super Tips for Stealth Camping You Need To Know

There are a few things every stealth camper must do to be successfully unnoticeable when sleeping in their vehicle in urban environments.  So, here are our stealth camping tips you should know before leaving:

• Cover every window, always
• Spend as little time awake in your stealthily-parked vehicle as possible
• Leave as early as possible, even just to move a couple of blocks (before 6 a.m. is best, but definitely by 8 a.m.)
• Pack it in, pack it out, and always leave the area cleaner than you found it
• If you get caught, it’s best to play dumb, and always be polite, cooperative and offer to move

How To Find A Stealth Camping Spot When Living The Van Life

We’ll list a few free applications and websites that you can use to find free camping a little bit later in this post, but there are a few steps you can follow for finding a good stealth camping spot.

Use Google Maps or another maps application on satellite view to scope out some potential options. 

You probably won’t be able to tell if there are gates or signs, but street view may give you more insight. After you have some options, it’s time to check them out.

Always scout out the area ahead of time, preferably in daylight

When it’s dark and you’re tired, you may miss important signs such as dangerous animal tracks or waste, “No Trespassing” signs, or heavily-trafficked trails that may become busy with runners or dog-walkers in the early daylight hours. 

You can return after dark, but it’s best not to start your night in the spot while the sun is still up as it increases your chances of getting caught.

Ask the locals 

If you’re camping in the heart of a city and you’re not sure about rules with parking spaces that are designated for residents only, ask! You might even be invited for extras like a shower, free food, or even a bed inside for the night.

Worst case, they say “no” and you have to find another spot, or the person may have some ideas for where you can park overnight for free and sleep undisturbed.

Note that Residents-Only spaces DO exist in some cities (such as Key West), and you will probably get a parking citation or towed if you park in a residents-only space.

Some vanlifers recommend asking the police if you see one nearby, but others caution against this since it’s not in the cop’s best interest to have you sleeping in your car in his or her beat.

Don’t park until after dark

After scoping out your options for stealth camping and finding your ideal spot, leave to find dinner and activities to keep you occupied until bedtime.

Many parks stay open until 10 p.m., and you can safely park and get some work done or watch Netflix until you’re ready to go to sleep.

Your stealth camping spot should be well-lit for safety, but you will want to keep the lights off inside your vehicle to avoid detection.

Don’t get your heart set on a camp spot

since you should definitely move if your campsite feels unsafe or it begins to feel like you’ll be caught.

Go to one of the other spots you had scoped out, head to a nearby Walmart, or drive out of town to the nearest rest stop. It’ll be late, you’ll be tired and it’s a pain, but you’re better safe than sorry.

Check Stealth Camping Apps & Websites

One method of finding safe and pleasant stealth camping spots is to use available apps and websites to try spots that other stealth campers have stayed at.

It can be a nice break from scanning Google Maps to hunt down a new location if you can just camp at a tried-and-true spot that other campers have rated.

Some of the most popular applications and websites for finding stealth camping sites are:

iOverlander 

You don’t even need to have an account or be logged in to use this website and app, which has a map of free and paid camping options near your location.

You can set the filter for the type of places you’re looking for, amenities you need (such as restrooms or showers), and places that have been rated by other campers more recently. 

While iOverlander tends to have more free camping options, another great application and website for finding stealth camping is Campendium.

You can search by category (RV Park, public land, overnight parking, etc.), price and whether they have hookups.

Campendium reviewers also tend to post more pictures and note whether they had cell reception and with which carrier, so that you can get more detail about potential camping spots.

FreeCampsites.net

Although it’s a little older than the other two sites in terms of design, this can be a benefit when using freecampsites.net because there can be far more options for sites and there may be more reviews about the specific site you’re considering.

The site also has icons that show different recreational activities you can do while at or near the campsite, if you’re looking for some outdoorsy things to occupy your time.

Another map-based app with lots of filters to refine your search is FreeRoam, which unlike the other sites, also notes weather averages and forecasts for the area you’re looking at camping in.

You can search by campground type, price, cell signal for your carrier, weather, availability, elevation, nearby facilities, and features and amenities.

In some areas, FreeRoam doesn’t have a lot of free overnight parking options, though, so you might be better off using iOverlander or FreeCampsites.net.

Boondockers Welcome

There’s a $50 annual fee to use Boondockers Welcome, but it might be worth it, especially if you have a larger rig or one that doesn’t work well for stealth situations.

The website acts kind of like an Airbnb for boondockers, connecting you with hosts who have land or designated camping spots on their property that they open up to overlanders and vanlifers.

However, you have to reserve your spot and plan ahead to camp, which may be a drawback to some.

Still, it beats camping in an unsafe spot in a city or paying $20 per night or more at a campground, and you’ll probably meet some cool new people along the way.

Best Places To Sleep On The Road While Stealth Camping

1: free overnight parking at 24-hour businesses.

Most vanlifers know that lots of Walmart store locations across the country allow free overnight parking in their lots. They offer a great way for urban stealth camping.

Several other businesses that are open 24 hours a day also let RVers and vanlifers park for free, including:

2: Sporting Goods Stores

Hunting and sporting goods stores such as Cabela’s are often very friendly to travelers sleeping in their RV or converted van, and some Cabela’s locations even have a designated area in their parking lot for RVs and campers.

Always check with the store manager to make sure it’s okay to overnight there, unless there are signs expressly communicating that sleeping in your vehicle is allowed.

3: Auto Parts and Hardware Stores

Some hardware stores and auto parts locations are fine with vanlifers parking in their lot overnight for free.

It’s polite to arrive during business hours (even if you leave and come back after hours to camp) to ask a manager if you can park there overnight.

They may ask you to leave by the time they open, and if they’re open 24-hours they might even let you use their restroom facilities (or showers).

As mentioned above, many Walmart locations (although not all – be sure to ask!) will allow you to park your stealth camping vehicles and sleep in your vehicle overnight.

There’s a bathroom just inside, security cameras for safety, and easy access to any groceries or other items you may need.

Since casinos and gaming resorts tend to run all night or late into the night, you can often park for free in their lots. Many of them have designated truck and RV areas.

Some may require you to get a parking pass (usually free) from the security station, so be sure to ask.

There may also be other requirements such as purchasing food or shopping, or spending a minimum amount of time playing in order to park for free overnight.

While you might be able to get away with parking overnight without doing this, it’s best to check so that you don’t get towed or receive a knock on the door by one of their security officers in the wee hours.

6: Rest Areas and Truck Stops

Rest areas and truck stops (such as Pilot or Love’s) are designed for catching a few zzz’s while on the road.

Many have nighttime security to help you rest easier, and almost all have restrooms and vending machines. Some even have showers or free coffee.

At Love’s Travel Stops, you can even get a hot shower in clean facilities with towels and even shampoo or soap, but there’s a fee of $12 per person unless you have a Love’s card (showers are only free with minimum mileage of gas purchased at a Love’s in a month’s time).

Things to Avoid in a Stealth Camping Spot

When scoping out an urban stealth camping spot, there are a few types of places and areas in the city that you are better off avoiding.

Whether for your own safety, the risk of getting stuck, or to avoid breaking the law and getting yourself in trouble, these are the ‘don’ts’ of stealth camping spots:

Don’t camp in a spot if “Private Property” or “No Trespassing” signs are posted. If you notice purple paint on trees or fence posts, this is another way people can mark private land and it will stand up in court if you are arrested for trespassing.

Don’t park in front of or next to people’s homes, businesses or near abandoned buildings or locations where children are present during the day (i.e. schools, day care centers or playgrounds).

Don’t camp next to busy roads or busy running or walking trails, since it will look more suspicious and you’re more likely to get caught.

Don’t camp at the end of a dirt road or alongside a river, canal or aquifer, especially if rain is in the forecast. You could get stuck in the mud when you try to leave the next day, or you may wake up to find your vehicle surrounded by water.

Don’t park for the night on the other side of a gate or fence, since it could be locked or closed come morning.

Don’t park near a railway line if you can help it, since late night trains will probably come by and result in a terrible night’s sleep.

Don’t camp in the same spot two nights in a row, and if you’re going to be in a city for several days or longer, rotate through a good list of a few stealth camping spots.

Tips for Working Full Time While Stealth Camping

In addition to seeing beautiful cities around the U.S., stealth camping in the city can offer a unique experience for digital nomads and vanlifers who work remotely from the road.

Here are some tips that are specific to working full time while you stealth camp in a city:

Choose the right place to work

Libraries and coffee shops are best, since they likely have WiFi and you can stay for hours at a time without much (if any) cost.

Most cities have an abundance of Starbucks locations these days, and these cafes usually have good WiFi and don’t mind if you park yourself for a few hours as long as you buy a coffee or snack.

Don’t work out of your car in the same place you plan to overnight. Work during the day from your chosen ‘office’ of the day, and head to your campsite once the place closes or after dark.

Assess your WiFi situation

Digital nomads and remote workers almost always need consistent access to WiFi to work, but not all locations have free WiFi that you can use from your vehicle.

In a pinch, you can tether to your cell phone with your laptop, but doing this every day can quickly use up your data plan.

Even if you have an unlimited plan, your carrier will likely throttle your data after a specified threshold, so be aware of what that threshold is and what it means (throttling, extra fees, etc.) if you pass it.

You might consider getting Google Fi or a mobile hotspot to make sure you’re online whenever you need to be.

Make sure your vehicle is comfortable to work in

You probably don’t want to spend much time working in your car, but in a pinch, you might need to.

Don’t cram your car so full of stuff that you don’t have an area where you can sit and work comfortably, and consider designing a small workspace within your vehicle so that you won’t be distracted if you have to park at a rest stop to get a few hours of work done.

Find a place for a free or cheap shower for your meetings

You don’t want to look homeless for that important meeting or video call! Community and rec centers, public pools, and even some parks or campgrounds will let you shower for free or just a couple of dollars.

Set a schedule, and stick to it!

The life of a digital nomad or remote worker can be difficult, but staying organized and sticking to a schedule can help you stay on track.

It’s okay if something comes up that messes up your plan for the day, but if you follow your schedule as much as possible, you’re more likely to be successful at the digital nomad lifestyle.

Summarizing the Stealth Camping Experience

Stealth camping can be a fun and memorable experience for overlanding travelers.

Not only are your living expenses drastically less than if you were living in a house or apartment, you have more freedom and opportunity to explore and see the world!

You probably won’t ever find yourself bored, since you’ll be sleeping and living in a new place almost every day.

While you may have some challenges along the way, the lifestyle can be very rewarding and exciting.

In addition to seeing some amazing places and going to cities you may never have had the chance to visit before, you’ll see a different side of those destinations than you would have if you stayed in a hotel.

There are so many people to meet and things to do, and overlanding while stealth camping at night gives you a lot more room to make the most of vanlife.

It can be scary to park on the street in an unfamiliar city, but if you do it right and follow the tips and steps in this guide, you’ll be well on your way to successful stealth camping experiences.

Stealth car camping: How can I stealth car camp?

Stealth car camping is a way of camping in your car without drawing attention to yourself or breaking any laws. It can be a fun and cheap way to travel and explore new places, but it also requires some planning and precautions.

Here are some tips for stealth car camping:

• Choose a legal and safe location: Stealth car camping differs from trespassing or squatting.
• Blend in with your surroundings: The key to stealth car camping is not to stand out or attract attention.
• Prepare your car for sleeping: Make your car as comfortable and cozy as possible.
• Be discreet and respectful: Stealth car camping is not an excuse to be noisy, messy, or rude. 
• Have a backup plan: Stealth car camping is not always predictable or guaranteed. 

Stealth camper van: What are some of the best stealth camper vans?

Stealth camper vans are ideal for city living or traveling, as they allow you to park and sleep almost anywhere without drawing attention or breaking the law.

Some of the best stealth camper vans are:

• Mercedes-Benz Sprinter
• Dodge Ram ProMaster
• Ford Transit
• Chevrolet Express/GMC Savana
• Medium Duty Box Truck

Stealth van: What are some of the best stealth vans for camping?

Some of the best stealth vans for camping are:

• Ford Econoline
• Chevy Astro
• Toyota Sienna
• Honda Odyssey
• Chrysler Pacifica
• Dodge Grand Caravan

Urban stealth camping: How can I urban stealth camp?

Have you heard of urban stealth camping? It’s the art of camping incognito in a city or urban area without attracting attention or violating any laws.

You can opt to stealth camp in a tent, a vehicle, or even on a bicycle. Urban stealth camping is a great way to explore a city on a budget, save money, and enjoy a unique perspective of urban life.

 Here are some tips for urban stealth camping:

• Choose a legal and safe location
• Blend in with your surroundings
• Prepare your tent or vehicle for sleeping
• Be discreet and respectful
• Have a backup plan

Stealth camping vehicles: What are some of the best vehicles for stealth camping?

Some of the best vehicles for stealth camping are:

• Sprinter van
• Conversion van

Best stealth van: What is the best stealth van for camping?

The best stealth van for camping depends on your personal preferences, budget, and needs. However, some general criteria for a good stealth van are:

• It should look like a normal cargo or work vehicle, not a camper van.
• It should have minimal or no windows, logos, stickers, or decorations.
• It should have enough space and height for a comfortable living area.
• It should have good gas mileage, reliability, and maneuverability.

Based on these criteria, some of the best stealth vans for camping are:

Best stealth camper: What is the best stealth camper for camping?

Some of the best stealth campers for camping are:

• Stealth camper vans
• Stealth camper trailers
• Stealth camping tents

About Author / Aaron Richardson

Aaron Richardson is an expert RVer and the co-founder of RVing Know How. Aaron, along with his wife Evelyn, has been living and traveling in their Keystone Fuzion RV since 2017. Their adventures span across the country and beyond, including memorable RVing experiences in Mexico. Aaron's passion for the outdoors and RVing shines through in his writings, where he shares a blend of travel stories, practical tips, and insights to enhance the RV lifestyle.

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Ultimate Stealth Van Camping Guide [2024 Update]

DO YOU WANT TO BE A PRO AT STEALTH VAN CAMPING?

Hi fellow Van Lifers! If you’re reading this, you have probably tried the art of stealth van camping. Let me tell you, it might be scary at first, but once you get the hang of it, it is much easier than you might initially think.

In this guide, I’m going to share my personal experiences and my best insider tips to help you find the best locations, blend in, be safe, and become a stealth van camping pro!

Is Stealth Van Camping Illegal?

Stealth van camping is a legal activity, but it’s important to be aware that it’s prohibited in certain areas. It is still easy to camp in these prohibited areas without any issues, but you have to be stealthy! In most locations, it’s completely legal to park your van and spend the night. The restrictions are often more prevalent in urban areas.

The art of stealth van camping is to blend in, not draw attention to yourself as a camper, and treat the area with respect. By staying informed and choosing your camping spots wisely, you can ensure your van camping adventures are both enjoyable and compliant with local regulations. Let go into more detail below.

Find The Best Spots For Stealth Van Camping

Whether in the bustling city or the tranquil countryside, finding that ideal location can turn an ordinary trip into an extraordinary adventure. Let’s explore some tips and tools to help you locate the best stealth van camping spots, ensuring your journey is as safe and enjoyable as possible.

Places To Stealth Camp in the City

City camping offers a unique challenge. The goal is to find safe spots where you won’t be disturbed. In reality, this can be anywhere in safe areas without parking restrictions. Here are some of my go to options:

• Legal Street Parking : Look for areas where street parking is legal and unregulated, especially where other vehicles are parked overnight.
• Residential Areas : Residential neighborhoods are always a good option. Be extra respectful here!
• Industrial Areas : These areas are often less busy at night and on weekends, making them ideal for stealth camping.
• Side Streets : Less trafficked than main roads, side streets can offer a discreet place to park for the night.
• Hotel Parking Lots : Often overlooked, these can be ideal, especially if the lot is large and busy. Just be discreet and park away from the main entrances.
• Walmart & Other Big-Box Stores : Many of these stores are known for being camper-friendly, but always check for signs indicating parking policies.
• 24-Hour Businesses : Establishments like gyms or diners that are open all night provide good cover for stealth camping.
• Truck Stops : These are a classic option for many travelers, offering amenities and a place where overnight parking is normal.
• Parks and Industrial Parks : These areas can be quiet at night, but be sure to check for any posted restrictions on parking.

Places To Stealth Camp in Rural Areas

Rural areas offer more scenic and peaceful spots for stealth van camping. Look for unobtrusive pull-offs or unused land but always respect private property. Here is what I look for:

• Free Campgrounds: My first option is to always check for free campgrounds in the area. Sometimes you get lucky!
• National Forests and BLM Land : Many of these public lands allow free dispersed camping, offering both solitude and natural beauty.
• Farmers’ Markets or Roadside Pullouts : These can be great for an overnight stay, but it’s always best to ask for permission if it’s private property.
• Near Hiking Trailheads : Often less frequented at night, these spots can be perfect for a quiet stay.
• Gravel Roads or Unused Logging Paths : These less-traveled paths can lead to secluded areas ideal for camping.
• By Lakes or Rivers : Not only scenic, but these spots can also offer a tranquil camping experience.

Apps to Help You Find Free Stealth Van Camping Locations

Technology is your friend here. There are many apps like Allstays and Campendium that help you find free stealth van camping spots whether you are in the city or rural area. They’re user-driven, so you’re getting real experiences and advice.

Check out my list of the best apps that helped me find the best free stealth van camping locations: 13 Must-Have Van Life Parking Apps

Other Methods to Find Stealth Van Camping Locations

Tapping into local knowledge is a fantastic way to uncover stealth van camping spots. Engaging with locals at coffee shops, gas stations, or stores can provide unique insights into safe and legal places to park overnight.

Additionally, online forums and social media groups dedicated to van life are invaluable resources, brimming with shared experiences and tips from fellow travelers. For more formal guidance, visitor centers and tourist information booths can offer advice on local parking regulations and suggest camper-friendly areas.

How to Blend In While Stealth Van Camping?

Blending in is the cornerstone of successful stealth van camping. It’s all about being inconspicuous, ensuring that you don’t get that dreded knock on your door in the middle of the night. Here are my best tips to help you achieve that:

• Disguise Your Van’s Exterior : Transform the exterior of your van to look more like an ordinary vehicle rather than a camper. Opt for neutral colors and minimal decals. The less your van screams “I’m a camper,” the easier it will be to blend into any environment, whether urban or rural.
• Park Smartly : When you choose a spot to park, do so in a way that doesn’t attract attention. This means avoiding parking in the same spot for too long, arriving late in the evening, and leaving early in the morning.
• Keep a Low Profile : Avoid activities that make it obvious you’re camping. This includes setting up chairs, cooking outside, or hanging laundry. Everything you do should be contained within your van.
• Control Light and Noise : Be mindful of the light and noise coming from your van. Use blackout curtains to prevent light from spilling out and keep the volume of any music or conversation low.
• Keep Your Space Clean : A cluttered van can draw unwanted attention. Keep the exterior of your van clean and free of camping gear or debris.
• Be Respectful of Your Surroundings : This includes not only the physical space but also the local residents. Being a good neighbor is key to blending in. If you’re stealth camping in a residential area, be especially mindful of noise and space.

What to Do if Someone Knocks on Your Van?

Although unlikely, encountering a knock on your van, especially at night, can be a bit unnerving. If it’s not the police and you’re feeling unsafe or unsure about the situation, it’s important to prioritize your safety. In such cases, it’s best not to open the door. Simply drive away to a safer location. The advantage of van life is your mobility – use it to your benefit. Your van is not just a place to sleep, it’s also your means of escape if needed.

How to talk to the police while stealth van camping?

In the event that it’s the police knocking, your approach should be cooperative and respectful. Stay calm and polite when you answer. Be honest about your situation – explain that you’re traveling and stopped to rest. Keep your identification handy, as you may be asked to show it. It’s important to know your rights, but also remember that the officer is doing their job.

If you’re parked legally and not causing any disturbances, be honest and respectful and you will most likely only receive a warning. The key is to handle the situation with a level head and clear communication.

Remember, the police are there to keep you safe.

How to Stay Safe While Stealth Van Camping?

Safety is a top priority when it comes to stealth van camping. Being in unfamiliar places, often alone, necessitates a proactive approach to your security. Here are some tips to help you stay safe:

• Choose Safe Locations : Research and select areas known for their safety. Avoid high-crime locations and trust your instincts about the safety of a place.
• Secure Your Van with a Good Lock : Invest in high-quality locks for your van. Strong locks are a fundamental barrier against unauthorized entry.
• Secure Your Van with an Alarm : An alarm system will deter potential intruders and alert you to any security breaches.
• Have Access to the Driver Seat from Inside the Van : In case you need to make a quick getaway, ensure you can easily move from your living area to the driver’s seat.
• Travel with a Dog : Dogs can be great companions and also serve as a deterrent to unwanted visitors.
• Trust Your Gut : Always listen to your intuition. If a situation or location feels unsafe, don’t hesitate to leave immediately.

Best Overall Tips For Stealth Van Camping

Stay Organized : A well-organized van not only makes your life easier but also keeps your van looking inconspicuous from the outside.

Keep a Clean Exterior : A clean and well-maintained van attracts less attention and blends in better with regular vehicles.

Use Reflective Window Covers : These not only provide privacy but also help in temperature regulation inside the van.

Avoid Light Pollution : Keep interior lights off as much as possible at night, or use curtains to block any light from escaping.

Follow Local Laws and Ordinances : Always be aware of and adhere to local parking laws and regulations to avoid unwanted attention from authorities.

Respect the Environment and Locals : Whether you’re in a city or out in nature, being respectful of your surroundings and local residents is key.

Have a Backup Plan : Always have an alternative location in mind in case your chosen spot turns out to be unsuitable or feels unsafe.

Enjoy the Experience : Remember, stealth van camping is not just about where you stay, but the adventures and memories you create along the way.

Check out my specific guide for Van Life in California

Join Vanlife Social Media Groups to Get Location-Specific Tips!

Tapping into the collective wisdom of vanlife social media groups is a game-changer for anyone into stealth van camping. These online communities are hubs where members share invaluable location-specific tips, making them an essential resource.

Finding and Engaging in These Groups

Platforms like Facebook and Instagram are rich with groups and hashtags related to vanlife and stealth van camping. Reddit has active communities like r/vandwellers, where daily discussions are filled with tips and personal stories. Additionally, online forums dedicated to van life or camping are great places to delve into detailed discussions. Keep an eye out for vanlife meetups or events advertised in these groups too – they’re fantastic opportunities for in-person learning and networking.

FAQs: Stealth Van Camping

Is stealth van camping dangerous.

Like any form of travel or camping, stealth van camping comes with its risks, but it’s not inherently dangerous. The key to safety lies in being prepared, staying aware of your surroundings, and using common sense. Choosing safe locations to park, securing your van properly, and trusting your instincts go a long way in ensuring a safe experience. Remember, much of the risk can be mitigated with careful planning and a cautious approach.

What is the difference between boondocking and stealth camping?

Boondocking refers to camping in remote, often off-grid locations without any amenities or hookups. It’s typically done in rural areas, national forests, or on public lands. Stealth camping, on the other hand, involves parking and sleeping in your van in a way that goes unnoticed, often in urban or populated areas. The main goal of stealth camping is to blend in with your surroundings to avoid drawing attention.

How to find showers while stealth van Camping

Finding showers while on the road requires a bit of resourcefulness. Options include gym memberships at national chains that offer shower facilities, using public showers at beaches or campgrounds, or even portable solar showers that can be used in remote locations. Truck stops and rest areas often have shower facilities as well.

How to use a toilet in my van?

Using a toilet in your van involves either installing a built-in system or using a portable solution. Built-in toilets are more comfortable but require more space and maintenance. Portable toilets, on the other hand, offer flexibility and are easier to manage. They range from simple bucket-style designs to more advanced chemical toilets. Whichever option you choose, it’s important to consider issues like odor control, waste disposal, and privacy.

What is the best van for stealth van camping?

Selecting the right van for stealth van camping often comes down to a balance between comfort and inconspicuousness. The Ford Transit and Mercedes Sprinter are popular choices, known for their reliability and ample space for customization. For those preferring a more compact option, the Ram Promaster City offers good maneuverability, particularly in urban settings. The Chevrolet Express is another great option, with its reliable performance and nondescript appearance, making it ideal for blending in. Ultimately, the best van is one that aligns with your personal needs, budget, and the type of stealth camping you plan to do.

Conclusion: Stealth Van Camping

Stealth van camping is more than just a way to travel; it’s a unique lifestyle that embodies freedom, adventure, and simplicity. As we’ve explored in this guide, successful stealth camping is about blending in, respecting your surroundings, and being prepared. Whether you’re nestled in a cityscape or parked discreetly in a rural haven, the experiences and memories you gather along the way are invaluable.

Embracing the stealth van camping lifestyle means joining a community of like-minded adventurers who value experiences over possessions. The key is to be respectful, stay safe, and enjoy the journey. So, pack up your van, hit the road, and immerse yourself in the adventure that is stealth van camping – your next great story is just around the corner.

If you live in California, you might be interested in: 25 Best Campgrounds in California Best Beach Camping in Northern California 10 BEST Campgrounds in Joshua Tree National Park

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A Vanlifers Guide to Stealth Camping (+ 10 Places I Sleep In Cities)

This post may contain affiliate links. This just means I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you for helping them promote their product or service. I don’t endorse any services I don’t personally use or recommend.

Paying for campsites sucks. & it sucks even more after you’ve painstakingly sacrificed the time, effort, & money to build your very own DIY conversion van. So we, just like many other vanlifers, opt instead for stealth camping. After driving cross-country (many times) we’ve perfected sneaky camping and come up with tons of tips to guarantee you’ll be able to find a free place to park at night. 

Whether you call it boondocking, dispersed camping, or stealth camping it all means the same thing. Free, sometimes bordering on illegal, car camping.  & believe it or not, you can find free van parking in every city in America and on all the rural highways in between. Here’s our complete guide to finding those stealth camping spots for yourself. 

How to Prep Your Van for Stealth Camping 

There are a lot of things you can do during and after your vanbuild that will help you blend in and not draw a lot of attention to yourself.

Pick the right vehicle

Sprinters, Ford Transits, & conversion vans are going to be the most practical when it comes to stealth camping. They are always street parked and nobody looks twice. It’s the more unique vehicles like school buses, ambulances, sprinters, or RV-style conversions that will make stealth camping difficult.

If you’ve already bought your school bus you’re not completely out of luck. These tips will still be plenty helpful to you but just know that your vehicle is going to draw a lot more attention than say …a 1990’s conversion van.

Opt for fewer windows

I think the ideal layout is one large side window. Maybe two small ones on a pair of back doors. Initially, most vanlifers think they want lots of natural light, but with all that sunshine comes the awkward tasks of trying to change or bathe discreetly. More often than not you’ll find you cover all those windows you thought you wanted.

Have window covers

Ideally, every window in your van should have a covering of some kind. The goal is to prevent anyone from seeing inside while you’re sleeping or just hanging out inside.

We made reflectix window covers for all the windows except our driver & passenger door. If you haven’t yet begun your van build, I recommend checking out how much converting our van cost us in full .

Add blackout curtains between the cabin and living space 

Before we started traveling in our van full time I didn’t think this was a necessity. But believe me, it is. Especially if you don’t make covers for your driver & passenger doors, you’ll want that additional layer of privacy.

Blackout curtains will help to reduce any light people might see around your front windshield while your in the van at night & help you stay hidden.

Consider decoys

A yellow construction hat, clipboard, or orange vest tossed over the dashboard will instantly make your camper van look like a work truck. No further investigation needed. This is especially handy with Sprinters, Ford Transits, or other cargo vans.

Have a pee bottle

The trickiest part about stealth camping in the city is finding bathrooms. I’ll go into that a little bit later but for now, just consider that sometimes late at night you may have to pee. & if you’re not comfortable popping a squat on the asphalt at 3 AM — then consider a pee bottle. & maybe one of those “Go-Girl” pee funnels.

Guys, as with many things in life, this is a lot simpler for you.  I never promised vanlife was glamorous.

Tips for Stealth Camping in the City 

This is where your stealth camping skills are put to the test. Cities are hard. Most parking is paid & expensive and as a visitor to the city, it can be difficult to know which areas are safe for overnight parking. Because let’s face it, there is nothing worse than driving around for hours looking for a place to sleep. Actually, receiving the middle of the night knock on the window might be worse.

Recently, I used my sneaky skills to sleep comfortably & for free just 10 minutes from downtown Chicago over the weekend.

Sleeping in your car illegally isn’t exactly living the dream, but lots of vanlife isn’t glamorous. & sometimes (often) this is the only way to go in major U.S. cities. Here’s how to make it work.  

Park with your windowless side facing the street

Or the side with fewer windows. Window covers work wonders, but sometimes people will undoubtedly wonder what it is that you’re covering up. Police or other law enforcement can also get tipped off by window covers if you’re sleeping somewhere you shouldn’t be.

Show up After Dark & Leave Early 

The cardinal rule of stealth camping. Show up late & leave early. Whether you’re in the city, a national park, or in the middle of nowhere– this rule will help you get away with a lot.

When we road-tripped down the west coast through the North Cascades National Park & Yosemite we stayed in campgrounds for free every night. We showed up at around 9 or 10 PM & hit the road at 6 or 7 AM while the campgrounds were unhosted.

Seek out signs for street cleaning

Obviously, avoid this during street cleaning. But show up immediately after street cleaning has finished and you’re guaranteed to have an empty street with loads of legal street parking.

Park near trees or some kind of cover

It’s always good to have a little bit of cover & not be in such an exposed area. & when you have to pee at night…it’s easier to hide in.

Find well-lit areas 

This is a safety issue. Your instincts will tell you to find a dark corner to hide in but this could backfire. Car prowling and burglary often occur in these dark alleys. Something as simple as a single street light can make all the difference in deterring intruders.

Change location every night 

It doesn’t have to be a drastic change of location, just find a different parking spot. In most cities, you can legally keep your car for in one spot 72 hours, but if people notice you…you could be testing your luck.

I wouldn’t stay on the same street or in the same neighborhood for longer than a week.

Find other cars 

If your van is the only car in the area at night you’re bound to draw some attention. Ideally, you want to melt into a parking lot full of cars and blend in. But at least find a spot with a few other vehicles scattered about.

Safety Tip : Sleep with your head away from the street. That way if a car crashes into your camper in the dead of night, you’ll walk away with much less severe injuries.

10 Places that Often Work For Stealth Camping

There are my top 10 go-to spots to seek out when you reach a new or unfamiliar city.

1. Legal Street Parking

Many cities across America have street parking. Often that street parking is only “paid parking” until a certain time. 6 or 8 PM usually. After that, it’s fair game for a free overnight spot. Just be sure to leave before it becomes paid parking again in the morning.

2. Hotel parking lots 

These are our go-to spots. Quality Inn, Holiday Inn, Best Western– any large chain hotel will do. The trick is they can’t have enclosed parking or any parking passes. If you show up late in the evening you can usually sneak right in.

3. Big-Box Stores

Walmart is the typical go-to. Unfortunately, in large cities where homelessness or crime is a problem, many Walmarts don’t allow overnight camping anymore. If you’re just staying for a single night it’s unlikely anyone will contact you.

Home Depot & Lowes have turned out to be more accepting of overnight guests.

They are a nation-wide store & allow overnight parking at every location (if it’s just for a single night).

5. 24-hours businesses

Gyms and Laundromats have been my favorite. Since they are open all night there is bound to be other cars in the lot.

6. Strip Malls & Mall Parking Lots 

Huge parking lots with minimal policing. Every once in a blue moon we consider a large well-lit strip mall lot & we’ve never had any problems.

7. Truck Stops 

They are meant for evening stopovers after all. Even better sometimes they have showers and water refill stations. You’ll get all your auto services in one. However, some truck drivers aren’t a big fan of vanlifers using their facilities.

8. Bars & Breweries in Small Towns

Often we find ourselves sampling the local brews until late in the evening. & sometimes these large breweries will have equally large parking lots. Many bars in small towns won’t think anything of a car left in the lot overnight.

9. Parks and Industrial Parks 

We love a good park. Not only is it a legal place to park but you can also spend your morning cooking outside, working out, and enjoying a green space. Sometimes they have designated parking lots and sometimes just street parking. Either way, it’s an area that will be deserted at night.

An extra tip for your comfort: Try to find a flat parking space. This way your bed will be level while your sleeping & you won’t run the risk of rolling right off your mattress.

10. Residential Areas

Should you stealth camp in residential areas .

This is a hot-debate among van dwellers. Personally…I say absolutely. I would say we park in residential neighborhoods about 50% of the time. In fact, in Florida, it was one of the easiest places to park overnight .

Tips for Camping in Residential Areas

• Feel out the neighborhood ahead of time. You’ll have problems in both wealthy & unsavory neighborhoods. Rich people don’t want vanlifers cluttering up their street & residents of bad neighborhoods are often suspicious of people parking in front of their house.
• Try to avoid parking directly in front of a house. Especially if people are awake.
• Look for apartment complexes . No one bats an eye at extra cars parked near them.

How to Find Bathrooms & Showers While Stealth Camping in the City

This is vitally important. Here’s where you’ll find a restroom pitstop when the bushes just won’t do.

• Gas Stations.
• Grocery Stores. This one is always a sure thing.
• Rest stops.

This is one of my least favorite parts of vanlife. & although we made some mistakes while building our van , the one thing I wish we could change is our shower system.

It’s outdoor & flimsy & really really sucks to use in cold weather. But most van showers are like this. This means that in addition to finding restrooms along the way we also spend a significant amount of time looking for places to have a steamy hot (indoor) shower.

How to Score a Hot Shower

• Get a gym membership. Just a cheap basic one at a national gym will do the trick.
• Truck Stops.
• National Park Campgrounds. & sometimes other campgrounds if you’re lucky.
• Check around on Ioverlander . It’s a great app for vanlifers & it has the option to search for shower facilities. I’ll talk about this app more later.

Places to Avoid When Looking for Stealth Camping 

Not all camp spots are created equal. Obviously. Here are the red flags you should avoid when picking the perfect stealth camping spot.

Anywhere near train tracks

Trains run all hours of the night. You WILL be woken up at 2, 4, & 6 AM but the train rumbling along the tracks blaring its horn. Just try to avoid them when you can.

Rich Neighborhoods & Sketchy Neighborhoods

As I mentioned above in the “residential camping” section. Both neighborhoods are likely to be suspicious of an unknown van-type vehicle pulling in late at night.

Other than that just use your best judgment. You probably don’t want to park on Main Street if it’s filled with bars and bound to be busy at all hours of the night. You also probably don’t want to park in the Home Depot lot if it happens to be where all the homeless people are hanging out. Just assess the situation and use your best judgment.

Stealth Camping in the Wilderness

Stealth camping in the wilderness or rural America is WAY easier than in major cities. You can pretty much park anywhere your van can fit if you follow the “Arrive Late & Leave Early” policy.

But here are some apps that can help you find legal boondocking spots in the great outdoors.

Apps & Websites to Help Find Free Camping 

Download these apps before your next road trip.

This app is the definitive guide to all campsites in the US. Every campground, free or paid, is on this app so you can browse and see what is available in your area.

Allstays Camp & RV

Great app for helping you to find RV hookups, campsites, & other general camping services.

Ioverlander

I love this app because you can search for not only campsites but water, showers, Wifi, & so much more. It’s a community effort too, so it’s kept up to date by other vanlifers along the way.

Boondockerswelcome.com

Kinda like couchsurfing.com, but for vanlifers. Basically, these lovely hosts are willing to share their driveway or property with an overnight guest at no charge.

Every state has BLM land. Utah has some of the most scenic and conveniently located BLM land suitable for all vanlifers. Federal land that is unused and free for the sleeping. It’s often also called dispersed camping. It’s free but has no amenities. Just wilderness.

Wilderness Stealth Camping Tips

Say your driving through a state park or just some highway in the middle of nowhere, nighttime falls and you’re looking for a place to set up camp. Here’s what I recommend.

• Try not to sleep near major roadways. The fewer cars that pass through the better.
• Look for dispersed campsites. Many state parks have them. I first used these barebones sites when I hiked High Rock Lookout near Mt. Rainer & many times after.
• Don’t park right before or after a sharp turn in the road in case someone takes the corner too fast in the middle of the night.

What about National Parks?

That’s the dream, right? Waking up, throwing open your double doors to the phenomenal views of one of the great wonders of the USA. Tunnel View at Yosemite , Old Faithful at Yellowstone, or Crater Lake in Oregon. Wellllll… it’s definitely against National Park laws. But being 100% honest we’ve slept at all three.

If you’re willing to bend the law here are some things you should know.

• Leave early and arrive late. The obvious benefit of sleeping in the park is that you arrive before everyone else. So get up early & get yourself that headstart.
• Sleep in Lodge parking lots. This works really well in Yellowstone & Grand Teton.
• In smaller national parks like the Badlands, you don’t even need to be sneaky. No one particularly cares where you sleep. Glacier National Park, on the other hand, set up in the wrong place & you’ll get the knock for sure.
• Use trailhead parking lots that have backcountry campsites. Backpackers leave their car and sleep in the wilderness so you’ll have the added cover of other vehicles. Just be sure that the park doesn’t require backcountry car permits.

Now you’re a free parking expert & you’re ready to hit the streets. Using these tips, I’ve been able to stealth camp in every city in America from NYC to Chicago to Seattle and everything in between.

Feel free to reach out at [email protected] or comment below if you have any questions about stealth camping or just vanlife in general.

Best Way to see the National Parks? Van Life.

Okay. I might be biased. But van life has changed the road trip game. It’s made it cheaper. More comfortable & helped me to travel more off-the-beaten-path. & that’s just a few benefits of the van life . But van life isn’t always as glamorous as it’s made out to be. & if you’re on the fence you should test out van/RV travel before you invest in your own rig.

My favorite RV rental company is RVShare. They have rentals all over the U.S. & are a very affordable option. Another perk…they are locally owned RVs which means they are cozier than a generic rental and you’re supporting small businesses.

Renting a Van More Your Style??

Lucky for you Travellers Autobarn has budget-friendly super comfortable van rentals that are fully equipped for any adventure. If you’re thinking a van build might be in your future, I always recommend test-driving van life before you invest the big bucks. This is my favorite van rental company for the price in the USA.

Be sure to save this post for later when you’ll need it!!

Further Reading...

The Ultimate American Foodie Road Trip (Map Included)

The Unglamorous Reality of Vanlife (All the Dirty Details)

The Ultimate North Cascades National Park Itinerary (Map Included)

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What Did Our Van Conversion Really Cost? Less Than You Might Think. (+Budget Build Tips)

Badlands & beyond: the ultimate south dakota road trip (map included), beyond_the_bucketlist.

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Vanning in Plain Sight: A High-Quality Stealth Camper Van Build

Published on September 13th, 2022 by Jamie Leo

New Company Specializes in Luxury, Stealth Camper Vans

Stealth camping is a concept that is very well known in the nomadic community, and most van lifers have likely tried it at some point in their travels. For people who are just getting into van life, it can be an intimidating topic if you’re not sure where to start. When I started my own van life experience, the thought of stealth camping was nerve-wracking – I wasn’t sure what rules to follow or what factors might make for a passable stealth camper van.

Luckily, there’s a new van-building company that specializes in stealth camper van builds (so you don’t even have to think about it), and they have some tips for current van lifers on how to successfully stealth camp!

What is Vanning in Plain Sight?

Vanning in Plain Sight is a new van-building company that focuses on the idea of stealthy, luxury vehicles. The name refers to how private and covert these vans are, allowing van lifers to fly under the radar wherever they go.

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Who is behind the idea.

The idea for the business was conceived by partners Jenny and Terry Smith. As van lifers themselves, they got the idea after living in their own stealth camper van conversion full-time from 2018 through 2020. Their admiration for stealth camping grew, and they soon felt inspired to bring this type of van living to more people.  

“We built an entire business around the notion that stealth van life is the best form of van life.” – Jenny Smith

They spent their two years on the road working out the kinks of their own camper van and learning all they needed to know about van life and stealth camping. Once they were certain they were ready to take the next step, they sold their van and began their new journey of building exceptional stealth camper vans.

What Are Stealth Camper Van Builds Like?

There are many van building companies out there, so you might be wondering how these van builds differ from others. Let’s take a look at a few ways these van builds stand out from the industry standard!

The level of stealth these vans have is the central focus of this business. In order to keep the vans inconspicuous, they have a cab partition, low-profile solar panels, and no windows.

Jenny and Terry point out that curtains, raised solar systems, and wrap-around windows are typically clear indicators that someone is living inside, so refraining from those aspects considerably helps you avoid detection.

The way your vehicle looks from the outside can determine whether or not your stealth camping experience will be successful, and that’s exactly what Vanning in Plain Sight sought to avoid when designing their sneaky builds!

Although the vans may be humble on the outside, Terry and Jenny’s goal was to make stepping inside their vans feel like stepping into a hotel room. While living in their own camper van, they worked for various luxury hotels, so they know exactly how to make their vans feel less like a van and more like a resort.

These vans are designed for ultimate comfort and convenience with high-end cabinetry, a full shower, and climate control. They have carefully crafted their builds for utmost accommodation and ease, ensuring that the owners of the van will have a relaxing experience.

One of the greatest aspects of these stealth camper vans is that they are completely off-grid, giving you even more flexibility with where you want to camp.

While buyers can decide the specific features they are looking for in their vans, Jenny and Terry’s past builds have come equipped with a full kitchen, water filtration system, plumbing, and a solar battery system. This allows you to spend extended periods of time in the backcountry (or wherever you choose) without needing to worry about finding an established campsite for hookups!

Why Stealth Camp?

You may be wondering why this business focuses on stealth camping. As van life grows in popularity, camping areas are becoming saturated with nomads, making it harder to find a spot to sleep for the night. Stealth camper vans open up more opportunities for places to camp out, so you don’t necessarily need to worry about finding a designated camping area every night.

“A properly stealthy van can give you a completely different vanlife experience bringing even more freedom and flexibility than other more traditional vans. Take advantage of the ability to hide ‘van in plain sight’ and see and experience all the amazing towns and cities of this country rent-free!” – Jenny Smith

Tips for Stealth Camping

If you already have a camper van and are looking to try stealth camping for the first time, Jenny has a few tips to follow:

• A cab-partition privacy curtain doesn’t cut it. 
• Ditch the wrap-around windows. 
• Get crazy with the interior and stay humble on the outside. 
• Fly (drive) under the radar when you pull into a new town. Behave as stealthy as your van.

How Can You Get One of Their Stealth Camper Vans?

Want to get your hands on one of these luxurious stealth camper vans? You’re in luck! Vanning in Plain Sight vans are made to order, so you can visit their website and get a free quote right now for the exact type of van you’re looking for.

What’s the Cost?

The vans range in price depending on the specific elements that you prefer, including the type of van, year, mileage, appliances, and more. These fully converted vans can range anywhere between $160,000 to $190,000, though the lower end of the price range still has all of the top-of-the-line components you need!

When Can You Get a Stealth Camper Van?

As of this month, the Vanning in Plain Sight team has grown! Jenny and Terry have now partnered with another builder, Christian Blando, so they’ll be able to handle a higher demand for their amazing vans. Their turnaround time is faster than ever, so now is the perfect opportunity to explore what their vans have to offer!

One of my favorite parts of van life is how everyone does it in their own way. It’s incredible to see what other nomads are doing, and we are so amazed by Jenny and Terry’s unique approach to their own van living and their new business! If you’re in the market for a luxurious, stealth camper van, be sure to check out their website ! You can also stay up to date on their Instagram account @vanninginplainsight

If you’re interested in learning more about stealth camping in general, check out my ultimate guide to stealth camping! Stay safe and stealthy out there!

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Stealth Camping: Tips & Strategies for Urban Vanlife

By Author Jake Junda

Posted on Last updated: August 28, 2023

Categories Vanlife Guides

Stealth Camping in the context of Vanlife means sleeping in your vehicle without getting noticed.

The basic motivation for stealth camping is to park for free in areas that may or may not strictly allow overnight camping. Generally, it’s done on street parking or parking lots that allow overnight parking, but don’t allow overnight camping.

Is That Legal?

The short answer, is not really.

The longer answer—–is it depends on where you are parked and what the laws are.

But generally, in most urban areas even if overnight parking is allowed, that doesn’t mean that you are allowed to sleep in your vehicle.

And if you are allowed to camp there, then there really isn’t a need for stealth anyway. So that’s why stealth camping mostly pertains to places where you aren’t allowed to sleep in vehicles.

Why Stealth Camping?

Well, most people stealth camp as a means to stay close to towns and cities, for work or other obligations.

Some people are stealth camping by choice, while others may have fallen on hard times and are forced to live out of a vehicle. For people living in cities with skyrocketing rent costs, stealth camping may be a reasonable alternative.

And for travelers, stealth camping can be just a fill-in solution as they make their way between destinations.

But whatever your motivations for stealth camping are, here is a guide to help you with all the facets of successful stealth camping.

This guide will help choose the right vehicle for a perfect stealth camper van.

Then we cover how to find the best overnight parking for stealth camping.

And lastly, we cover the best practices and tips to stay safe.

This post may contain affiliate links. Disclosure policy .

Choosing and Modifying a Vehicle For Stealth Camping

The best base vehicles for stealth camping are cargo vans and box trucks. But passenger vehicles, like trucks, SUVs, and minivans can also be suitable for stealth camping with proper modifications.

The key to stealth camping is to blend in and avoid attention. The more forgettable, the better, especially if you are stealth camping in the same area often.

Things to avoid: flashy paint jobs, stickers, decals, logos, bike racks, vent fans, or any other memorable exterior features.

Visible vent fans, solar panels, bike racks, generators, ladders, or any other common external campervan mods are highly discouraged.

And at this point, most people are familiar with campervans. So even your average person can recognize even a decent attempt at a stealth campervan.

This is the fundamental flaw of stealth camping rigs, in my opinion.

How can you design a comfortable campervan that is also stealthy?

Inevitably, you will make certain compromises in the name of stealthiness. So you should really only design your campervan for stealth if you a certain it’s the lifestyle for you.

Cargo Vans & Box Trucks

Cargo vans and box trucks are ideal because they have few windows and blend in well in an urban setting.

It’s great if your vehicle looks like a plain work vehicle, because it won’t look out of place parked on the street, especially in an industrial area.

But one big misconception is that it would be a good idea to put a fake logo on your vehicle like “Mike’s Plumbing Co”. You don’t want to do this for two reasons.

Reason 1: It makes your vehicle memorable and easy to identify.

Reason 2: Work tools/equipment are a big target for thieves.

Many van break-ins I hear about are vans that look like they may have tools/equipment inside.

Usually, thieves are just looking for an easy smash and grab. But once they find out someone is inside, they flee.

Passenger Vans, Conversion Vans, and Passenger Vehicles

Passenger vans, conversion vans, and other passenger vehicles can work for stealth camping, but the strategy is a little different.

Instead of trying to hide the fact that it’s a campervan, you just try to keep a low profile and convince people that you aren’t sleeping inside.

The challenge here, of course, is that these kinds of vehicles have more windows.

Window Coverings Are Essential For Stealth Camping

You have to cover any and all windows. If someone can see inside then you are more likely to draw attention.

Dark-colored fabric is the best thing to completely “black out” your windows at night. And even though Reflectix is the standard for campervan window covers, it’s very shiny and not great for stealth.

But if you still want the ability of reflective window covers, the best thing to do is make reversible window covers with Reflectix on one side and black fabric on the other.

And to keep your window covers in place, we highly recommend these oversized magnets (they really hold things in place). I don’t recommend gluing velcro or any other adhesives because they tend to fail because of the heat around the windows.

Tinted windows are also highly recommended, but they’re not sufficient on their own.

If you can successfully cover every last inch of your windows, then it allows you to be a little more liberal with light inside your campervan at night. Otherwise, even the tiniest crack of light is easily spotted.

Campervan Ventilation

Humidity build-up and climate control are one of the biggest challenges of vehicle dwelling, which is why I have an entire article dedicated to Campervan Ventilation .

Nearly everyone agrees that a vent fan is one of the most essential campervan additions.

Because without a vent fan, you are left with just opening the windows and possibly using an interior fan to at least get the air moving. And do you really want to have your windows cracked open if you’re stealth camping in urban areas?

Most vent fans are designed to be roof-mounted, and when the rain shield is up, it’s an obvious sign that the vehicle is designed for living.

Solar Panels are another dead giveaway for a wannabe stealth camper van. Or you might be saying, what about low-profile solar panels?

Some flexible ones like this are nearly paper-thin and can be adhered straight onto the roof. Or a common technique is to

Well that’s great, but what about any two-story buildings? If we are indeed talking about urban stealth camping, then anyone above the first floor can see your roof.  And most streets are slanted for drainage, so your vehicle will often be parked on an angle, exposing your roof more.

But I digress……

The truth is that you don’t need absolute PERFECT stealth to get away with stealth camping.  Because after all, it’s not illegal to park a campervan on the street, it’s only the act of sleeping inside that can actually make it illegal.

And if you can blend just enough to avoid upsetting people, then often that is good enough.

So with that said, here are some general guidelines for designing a campervan with stealth camping in mind.

Vent Fans For Stealth

If you want a roof vent fan, then get one that matches the color of your vehicle and you remove any brand logos or stickers, then you can keep a relatively low profile.

For functionality, we personally recommend the MaxxFan 5100K because it comes with a built-in rain shield, and is available in black and white ( full MaxxFan review here ).

But for the absolute lowest profile vent fan (when closed) go with the Fan-Tastic Fan .

Or to take it further I have read about some DIY solutions that design a floor vent fan . However, you still probably want at least an outlet vent near the ceiling to expel hot air.

Also, keep in mind that Vent Fans (especially on a high setting) make tons of noise. In weather over about 75 Degrees, I personally can’t sleep without running our vent fan on high. So it may not matter how well your vent fan is hidden if people can hear it.

Interior Fans paired with Window Visors

Instead of a roof fan, you can get 1 or 2 interior fans and then just crack the windows. To hide the crack in your windows, deflect rain, and also deter theft add some window vent shades .

DC-DC Charger (Alternator Charging)

A decent way to keep your batteries charged up is alternator charging for vanlife . This uses a battery isolator or DC-DC charger to charge your house batteries while driving.

But you need to drive consistently (several hours per day) to truly live off the electricity created this way. Which is typically at odds with the lifestyle of urban vanlife.

Solar Panels For Stealth Camping

So if you still insist on having solar, then there are two good strategies.

Either use thin flexible solar panels that can be installed with a low profile. But keep in mind that solar panels work more efficiently when they have an air gap underneath. So mounting them directly to the roof will result in a decrease in performance and longevity. A compromise you might just have to make.

The other good solution is to install a roof rack to mount your solar panels that also obscures the view of your roof from the sides.

Access To The Front Cab From Inside

Make sure you can go between the driver’s seat and the back of the van without going outside. This allows you the opportunity to just drive away from sketchy situations.

However, you may install a hard partition (wall) for additional security.  But just make sure that it includes a lockable door.

Street Parking Is Slanted

The last tip isn’t really about stealth, but rather comfort. Most streets are slanted for drainage.

In the US, where we park on the right side of the street, the passenger side dips lower than the driver side, and you can’t exactly set up leveling blocks if you are stealth camping.

So, if you plan on doing mostly street parking, and your bed is width-wise then plan to sleep with your head on the driver’s side. Even a small slant downwards can result in too much blood running to your head at night. (But seriously, this is a minor consideration if you only sometimes plan on street parking!)

Where to Park For Stealth Camping

Stealth camping is generally associated with urban areas, but it can also include small and medium towns.

The best places for stealth camping are ones where nobody will have a problem with you (legal or not)

These usually consist of strategic street parking or business parking lots.

To find good stealth parking space we use a combination of apps like iOverlander, Allstays, and Spot Angels.

Industrial Parks

Industrial areas are a good place for cargo vans and box trucks because there are often other similar vehicles to blend with.

And there usually aren’t any nosy residents who are going to call the cops. However, they are often less safe areas and may have regular patrol by cops or private security.

Neighborhoods

Residential neighborhoods that allow street parking can be a good place for more obvious campervans or passenger vehicles to stealth camp.

The idea here is that you aren’t necessarily trying to hide the fact that it’s a campervan, but rather just blending in more as a civilian vehicle. Or it might give off the vibe of just a vanlifer visiting someone who lives there.

Try not to park right in front of someone’s house if you can help it.

There are a whole host of businesses that allow varying degrees of overnight parking and camping. So these don’t always qualify as strictly stealth camping, because you may be allowed to be there. But nevertheless, a lot of the same guidelines still apply.

The most common businesses that sometimes allow overnight parking are Walmart, Cabelas, Cracker Barrel, Casinos, and Truck Stops.

All of these companies have some formal guidelines in place to allow overnight parking.  But it varies from location to location, so be sure to look for signs and when in doubt the most foolproof method is to call the store manager.

And for the most part, these stores are expecting that you will buy something from them in exchange for a “free” place to stay. So don’t be a freeloader.

Other Overnight Parking Space Options

Then some other places that can work for stealth camping are 24-hour stores or businesses that often have a rotation of overnight parkers. So for example gyms, auto shops, hotels, churches, breweries, public parks, train stations, rest stops, and park’n’rides.  

While you may not technically be allowed to camp overnight, you may be able to get away with it for a night.

However, I would advise that you refrain from regularly using these options for stealth camping.  Because oftentimes you are abusing the privilege by using the parking for something outside the spirit of the rules. This gives the vanlife community a bad name.

How To Avoid Detection When Stealth Camping

These are the golden rules of stealth camping.

Arrive Late & Leave Early

If you show up to your parking spot after dark and leave early in the morning, then there is just a smaller window of time to get “busted”. 

There are simply fewer opportunities for people to see you or care. Either businesses are closed, or residents are asleep.

Get Ready For Bed Elsewhere

Get ready for stealth mode before parking for the night. Cook dinner and get ready for bed at a different location before driving to where you want to sleep. Make sure any and all window covers are in place and you’re ready to park and quickly transition to your bed.

That means even brushing your teeth before moving to your final spot.

Limit Lights and Movement

Once you are parked, try to limit the amount of light and movement you create.

It goes without saying that any light coming from inside the vehicle is a dead giveaway. A headlamp with a red light mode can help you be a little bit more stealthy, or at least having lights with a dimmer.

And try to limit your movements, because any time you move around your vehicle will rock a little bit and could alert suspicion.

Know Where You Blend In

If your vehicle looks like a plain white work vehicle, then you will have an easier time blending in city streets or industrial areas. However, if you park in a neighborhood, then residents might view your vehicle as “out of place”. A plain white van has a stigma for being sketchy, and more likely to result in a call to the police.

Conversely, an obvious campervan looks out of place in a city or industrial park. However, that same campervan in residential areas might just look like a neighbor’s friend passing through. So just be mindful of where your kind of vehicle blends in best.

Keep A Clean Appearance

You’d be surprised how much appearance can help you avoid confrontation. This goes for yourself and your vehicle.

Keep your van clean and presentable, but not flashy.  People are more likely to get upset with an old rusty eyesore than a clean-looking vehicle.

A run-down camper is associated with homelessness, and people are much more sensitive to the homeless moving into their neighborhood than just a traveler passing through.

Don’t Set Up Camp

Don’t set up any personal belongings outside your vehicle. You don’t want to give any clues that someone lives in the vehicle.

Plus, camping in public is another thing that conflates vanlife with the stigmas of homelessness.

Don’t Dump Trash or Relieve Yourself Outside

Going to the bathroom outside your vehicle is absolutely the worst thing you can do as a stealth camper. It obviously can blow your cover, but even worse, it drags the reputation of the vanlife community in sh*t.

There’s no faster way to upset the general public and create anti-vanlife legislation. So stealth campers should ALWAYS have a bathroom solution inside their vehicle . 

At the very least you should have something for peeing, whether it be a bottle, bucket, cassette toilet, or composting toilet .

Adhere To All Parking Rules

Make sure you abide by all the parking signs.

It doesn’t matter how stealthy you are if you weren’t even allowed to park in the first place.  An app that we have used in cities to find specific parking rules is called Spot Angels .

And obviously, avoid any private property where you aren’t invited.

Rotate Spots Often

If you are stealth camping in one area for an extended period of time, then be sure to rotate the spots where you park.

You might consider picking a certain radius around where you work and then find 7-10 decent spots that you can rotate between to help diffuse suspicion. And the longer you stay, the more spots you need to add into your rotation.

Find Your Own Spots!

Finding your own spots for free camping, is a skill that you can improve over time.  Like most people, we enjoy the convenience of popular apps like iOverlander for finding parking.

The problem is when too many people are using the app, then it concentrates stealth campers in the same spots over and over.

So without your knowledge, there may have been vans parked in your exact spot for 5 nights before you arrived. The local residents don’t care that it wasn’t you, all they know is that there are campervans parked there every night.

So try to be different and explore less popular areas.

For example, iOverlander requires users to mark a specific spot when adding an entry. However, it may be that the entire neighborhood has free street parking. So, in that case, don’t always park exactly on the pin drop if the whole neighborhood is fair game. Just imagine that you are the poor guy who has the iOverlander pin dropped right in front of his house.

Trust Your Gut

Trust your gut if you have a bad feeling about parking somewhere.  If it doesn’t feel right, don’t park there. This can help protect you from dangerous situations, or unwanted encounters.

Buy something (If It’s Expected)

If you are staying in the parking lot of a business that allows free parking then, by all means, return the favor by patronizing the business. If businesses don’t get something in return, they will revoke the privilege.

What To Do If You Get “The Knock”

Sometimes you do everything right, but you still get a knock on the door in the middle of the night. It’s most likely a police officer or security guard who is going to ticket you or ask you to leave. But it’s good to still be cautious about unexpected encounters.

Identify the person knocking.  Most police officers will verbally identify themselves, but you should still visually confirm that it’s a cop before opening the door.

Listen and cooperate with the cop or security guard. Don’t argue, even if you think you’re allowed to park there. If they ask you to move, then do it, but make sure it’s verbally communicated. You don’t want to be mistaken for fleeing the scene prematurely. And you may kindly ask if they know a better place for you to park overnight.

If for some reason you are positive that the knock is not from a cop or security guard, then DO NOT open the door. You have no obligation to talk to unauthorized strangers. I would get into the driver’s seat and drive away ASAP. But again, you should be absolutely certain that you are not fleeing from a cop, because that’s a felony.

Stealth Camping Safety Tips

There are a few common-sense guidelines for keeping yourself safe when stealth camping.

Always keep your doors locked and keys in an accessible place.

Be Aware Of Your Surroundings

Just use common sense and try to avoid neighborhoods or situations that don’t feel right.

Plan An Exit Strategy

Take note of possible exits and cars parked in front or behind you so that if you need to drive away quickly, you are ready.

Don’t Be Flashy

Keep a low profile, and don’t advertise any valuables.

Self Defense

In the rare circumstance that you run into a thief or other miscreant, how will you protect yourself?  It’s good to be prepared for the possibility of a violent confrontation, but I wouldn’t obsess over it.

The best thing to do is drive away. The person in question is likely on foot, so you should have no problem evading them in a vehicle. This avoids the confrontation altogether, and will remove the possibility of repercussions of a violent confrontation.

This is why for stealth campers, it’s good to keep the living area connected to the front cab. That way you can hop into the driver’s seat without going outside the vehicle.

The effectiveness of guns for self-defense is hard to argue with. However, there are several logistical issues that make firearms a tricky choice for vanlife.

If you travel to different states and jurisdictions, then the rules may vary, and it’s a logistical headache to make sure that you continue to operate within the law.

A taser is a great non-lethal self defense weapon. You just need to make sure you keep it charged or properly powered up.

Pepper Spray

Pepper spray is a good non-lethal self-defense option.  But you really should have gel pepper spray because it has less chance of hurting the user. The typical spray types can cause friendly fire at short range. And even worse is bear spray, which is designed to shoot over 30ft.

The best type of melee weapon that I would recommend is a knife. They are ideal for close combat because they don’t require any wind-up like a baseball bat. You just won’t be able to get a proper swing in such a small space.

Don’t Ruin It For Others

It’s very important to protect the public perception of the vanlife community. And since stealth camping sometimes toes the line of legality, it’s critical that all van lifers behave respectfully. It only takes one person to ruin it for everyone else.

As a community, we are very much at the mercy of public opinion. If people don’t want us around, they will legislate us off their property in a heartbeat. And once van dwelling becomes increasingly outlawed and restricted, we will be forced to live even farther at the margins of society.

And once rules or legislation have been passed, vanlife community is likely far too disjointed and nomadic to overturn rulings in the normal political process.

Is Stealth Camping Right for You?

While stealth camping may seem like a tempting possibility. It’s really only suitable for certain people and situations.

There are obviously big sacrifices in lifestyle and comfort for those who embrace stealth camping. So you need to decide if it’s even worth it for you.

While effective stealth camping can greatly expand your options for overnight parking, it definitely comes with some negatives. As I mentioned above, you may have to sacrifice some campervan features to maintain stealth. For example, no bike racks, external storage, large solar panels, etc.

And there’s also the lifestyle sacrifices. You can’t come and go freely from your van.

And we personally hate having to “hide” at night, and always be a little on edge.

You will have to decide if stealth camping often is worth the sacrifice for you.

Most vanlifers fall into one of two categories; nature-oriented travelers, or more sedentary urban van dwellers.

The former probably prefers to be at an official campsite, campground, or boondocking site.  Thus, stealth camping will be much less of a consideration.

But the latter category may do stealth camping nearly every night. So for more urban-oriented van dwellers, stealth considerations will be a factor in their van build.

But don’t worry, it’s not strictly “black and white”.

Emily and I fall into the first category because our main passion is being out in nature. So stealth was not a big consideration with our van build. Our van is certainly not stealthy with an “@tworoamingsouls” sticker, a giant cargo box, and a solar panel that looks like a giant spoiler.

However, we still occasionally “stealth camp”.  Our van is pretty obviously a campervan, but by following all the other guidelines (arrive late & leave early, be quiet and respectful, clean van, etc) we are still able to stealth camp in certain situations.

But if you intend on stealth camping often, then you should try to follow all the tips and methods listed above. Any steps to improve your stealthiness will be beneficial. But don’t stress too much about having the most perfect stealth camper, because sometimes “good enough” is well, good enough.

And again, parking selection is more important than vehicle stealthiness.

If you are wondering what alternative there is to stealth camping, we highly recommend boondocking or primitive camping on public lands. Or we use another camping service called Harvest Hosts and Boondockers Welcome to find more places for overnight parking.

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10 Best Stealth Campers To Live In Off Grid

Stealth campers offer a way around one of the most pervasive challenges facing van-lifers : parking. Simply put, many neighborhoods and businesses don’t want people obviously camping out in public spaces; they may run you and your gorgeous-but-obvious Volkswagen Bus Camper off after a few nights.

But what if they had no idea about your alternative lifestyle ? Stealth campers essentially camouflage your tiny home in the guise of a humble fleet vehicle. It’s all about maintaining a low profile, and today we’ll be showing you how to do it in style and comfort.

We’ve put together a list of ten of the best examples of sneaky rolling homes on the internet for you to get some ideas for your own build . You’ll be dodging overpriced campgrounds and enjoying city camping in no time!

1. The Black Panther

Margaret, aka @curlyhaircamping , has a self converted off grid home that is undoubtedly one of the stealthiest stealth campers out there. From the outside there is almost nothing to give the game away; there are no windows, no colourful decals, and no cool-but-distinct two-tone paint jobs nor hand-drawn forest wonderlands.

The nato green colour of Margaret’s van may be a slight give away if she was city camping. However, as she spends 99% of her time camping in the wilderness, the dark green paintwork actually means the van can blend into its surroundings.

Instead of housing things on the side of her vehicle, Margaret has everything that she needs on the roof of her van: Solar panels for electricity, plus skylights for letting air and light into the main living space. She chose to convert a Sprinter van , which is the perfect choice as they are commonly used as work vans or people carriers.

Being the stealthiest of stealth campers doesn’t mean that you have to compromise on the interior either. Margaret’s rolling tiny home is both stylish and functional, acting as both her humble abode and office all rolled into one.

This conversion features a spacious kitchen with a sink, fridge, preparation area and a two-ring burner; a fixed double bed; a desk for working at; and ample space to store everything that she needs for an impromptu adventure, including two bikes. Creating a space to store bikes inside your van means that you don’t need a bike carrier on the back of your vehicle–keeping the telltale outside fixtures and fittings to a bare minimum.

Check out Margaret’s adventures on Instagram @curlyhaircamping to get more stealthy inspiration!

2. The Green Machine

Next on our list of the top stealth campers is another nato green Sprinter Camper Van , brought to us by off-grid-aficionados Helen and Jelly. Unlike the last van, this Sprinter conversion utilises the same blacked-out windows that you might find in a minibus.

Not only do they match the dark colour scheme, they have a privacy screen to stop peeping toms seeing into the living space beyond. If this wasn’t enough, the windows are also bulletproof. Yes, you heard right– bulletproof ! Thieves will definitely have a hard time breaking through this kind of armoured glass, which is on par with that of the Tesla Truck Camper .

This camper van isn’t just stealthy; it’s also the most independent off-grid adventure bus I’ve ever seen! Thanks to its large roof-mounted solar panel and built-in water filtration system, Helen and Jelly can make use of the natural elements rather than fighting them.

Step inside their van, and you’ll find all the comforts of home–and then some. The list includes a large under-counter fridge; an oven with a three-ring burner; a large sink basin; a large sofa-style seating area; a composting toilet and standing shower; and double bed with under-bed storage for their all-important mountain bikes.

If you want to check out Helen and Jelly’s van, you can see more on their van tour filmed by The Indie Projects. 

3. The Work Van

With an Instagram handle of @stealthcampervan , we thought it would be rude not to include this Sprinter conversion on our list of the top stealth campers out there on the roads.

And yes, that’s three Sprinters in a row. Vanlifers choose these for their conversions since they’re super reliable, and spare parts are easy to find anywhere in the world.

This particular vehicle spent its former days as a highway work van; it’s even still got the bright red and yellow striped hazard markings and the red flashing light on the roof. Talk about urban camouflage! It looks 100% official, and will appear as though it’s meant to be on duty wherever it lands.

The rest of the van retains its original white, with nothing to give the game away. No windows have been added to the sidewalls; just a skylight in the roof. While it’s hard to see from the roadside, it still lets plenty of light into the van.

Inside, the van provides plenty of comfort, with a large bench seat which folds out into a bed; a full kitchenette complete with a sink, fridge, two-ring burner, and plenty of storage space; a shower and toilet; plus room to store a bike in the back.

But couldn’t you just look through the windshield to see the internal suite? No way! The living area is completely separated from the driving cabin by a bulkhead. This wall has a small window with blackout curtains for total privacy.

Without a doubt, this is one of the sneakiest sprinter campervan conversions on the roads and could probably get away with parking pretty much anywhere. Check it out at @stealthcampervan on Instagram. 

4. The Shiny New Motor

Next on our ultimate compendium of stealth campers is Quin’s van from @everchanginghorizon . This van is another Mercedes Sprinter (I promise that there are some other vans on this list!)

This one’s kept its factory silver colour, allowing the camper to blend in with all the other vehicles in the parking lot. It has all of its original doors and windows, and looks for all the world like a (shiny, new) standard work van.

Three windows plus an added skylight in the roof give this camper a beautifully light interior. The white cupboards and walls further complement this airy aesthetic. Of course, the window tinting plus blackout curtain divider work together to keep this tiny home in stealth mode.

Overall, this is a pretty spectacular conversion and includes a sink, two ring hob, pull out chest fridge/freezer, overhead and under-bed storage, a flip-up table, and a toilet hidden under the fixed double bed. Check out more of this stealth camper’s features at @everchanginghorizon on Instagram. 

5. The Tool Shed

Next on our list of the top stealth campers is @whitecampervan , a VW T5 (and most definitely NOT a Sprinter van). This van is much smaller than the previous four vehicles, which helps to make it even more stealthy and inconspicuous. After all, the less space your van takes up, the less attention you’re going to draw from passers-by or pesky parking wardens.

This van has kept its original white exterior colour and only has the van’s original windows – one in the side door and one in the back door. Most people would expect this van to be crammed full of builder’s tools or plumbing supplies. Instead, it’s a fully kitted-out travelling home, with all of the van life essentials needed to make life on the road more comfortable!

Although compact, this van has everything you could possibly need for a long weekend away or a stint of off grid living in the woods. The interior is beautifully thought-out, with plenty of storage space around and beneath the fixed double bed; a flip-up table to go with the revolving front seats; and an under-counter fridge. Sure, the outdoor kitchen is a bit of a give-away that this is a camper van–but if you need to be really stealthy, you could always just have a sandwich or a can of soup!

Check out more pictures @whitecampervan on Instagram. 

6. The Pro Stealth Master

The thing that I love most about stealth campers is that you never know what you’re going to see when you open the sliding door and take a look inside. (Okay, that had a Forest Gump feel about it, but I think you get what I’m trying to say.)

This conversion by Brandon @bucksd is proof that stealth camping doesn’t mean you have to compromise with poor interior design. Just because there are no side windows, doesn’t mean you’ve got to feel like you’re living in the trenches. When properly converted, there’s no reason why stealth campers shouldn’t have all the comforts of home!

Brandon’s conversion is light, airy, cosy, and incredibly tidy (kudos on the cleanliness!) It’s a sophisticated space hidden inside of a completely inconspicuous van. Everything inside has its proper place, with special coverings to hide them when they’re not in use, too!

As an aside: if the Mercedes Sprinter is our go-to choice for stealth camper conversions here in Britain, then the Ram Promaster would be its equal in every way over the pond. It’s literally used for everything in the States–including Amazon deliveries–in no small part due to its reliable motor and wealth of available stock and aftermarket parts. Great to see it being used for a stylish and stealthy travelling home!

Head over to @bucksd to check out more pics and to follow Brandon’s adventures.

7. The Toasty Ninja

Okay, you might be wondering how a van with a chimney has made it into our list of the top stealth campers. Let me share a personal experience: I had a chimney poking out the top of my van for a couple of years, and almost everyone assumed it was an aircon unit, or else a fancy radio antenna.

Now, Matt from @vanlifetv.uk has since taken the wood-burning stove out of his van. Nevertheless, the metal chimney twinned with the metallic paint job make for an inconspicuous picture. You’d definitely have to do a double-take if you were driving past, by which time you’d be too far away to notice that this was a camper.

The inside of Matt’s camper was and still is very rustic looking. I love the use of wood throughout the build and the choice of stains gives a country cabin feel that always resonates well with outdoor lovers.

As a climber, Matt needs a lot of space for gear storage; he also wanted a travelling house for sleeping over at his favourite climbing spots. It’s at once practical and hospitable, with a dual burner, sink, bed, toilet, storage for all of his cooking accessories ; plus tonnes of pictures and trinkets to make this converted van feel like home. Stealth campers might be blank and bleak on the outside, but inside they’re full of intrigue, colour, and adventure.

Head over to @vanlifetv.uk to follow Matt’s adventures!

8. The Family Car

As stealth campers go, this family minivan conversion takes top prize for being the most unsuspecting camper on this list.

You might not be able to stand up in it, and you certainly wouldn’t be able to have your friends round to play a board game. But what you can do is get the best parking spots at the very front of the beach; and you’ll never have to worry about underground parking height barriers ever again!

The sink and food preparation area can be used both in and outside the camper. Similarly, a useful swing-out table lends itself to dining, gaming, or whatever else your heart desires. The bed is large enough to sleep two people and there is plenty of storage to keep adventure gear packed up and ready to go all year round!

This would be the perfect option for someone who needs to appear smart at meetings, but who is also too tight to pay for hotels while out on the road. If you’re a professional vanlifer who still needs to look like a professional human, then this is the camper for you.

Head over to our full-length article on this affordable camper for more details!

9. The Little Nipper

The VW Caddy Camper is one of the most underrated stealth campers of all time. In stealth mode, this van looks just like the kind of thing you would see a handyman pull up outside of your house in; crammed full of odd bits of wood and more hand tools than you’ve ever seen in a lifetime.

While it might be small, the VW Caddy is the perfect option for budding weekend warrior types who want something small and speedy to take away on a quick break to the country. With a pop-top roof added into the mix, you can even make enough space to sit up comfortably and relax with a good book or a movie.

Another outdoor adventure conversion, this cosy camper built by @sam_likes_to_travel is both practical and homely. It’s got a cool pallet wood vibe that instantly makes me think of a cosy shed house in the middle of a forest glade.

The bed folds out into the main walkway, almost doubling in size, and there’s still tonnes of space for kitchen essentials such as a hob and gas canister combo. Living in a tiny house doesn’t have to feel cramped if it’s done right, and this is a great example of how stealth campers can hold so much while still looking small and inconspicuous.

Follow Sam’s adventures over on Instagram !

10. The School Run

Last but by no means least, we have the Citroen Berlingo: A tried, tested, and approved conversion vehicle used by lovers of stealth campers everywhere. What at first glance might look like a family vehicle trained in the art of traversing the perils of the school run is actually a fully converted camper with a bed, shelf-storage, outdoor cooking area, and more besides!

This conversion built by Anna @littlestcampervan proves the age-old saying that good things come in small packages. And the best thing is that self-conversions in little vehicles tend to be very kind on your wallet too!

With a couple of blackout blinds drawn and the rear boot down, this vehicle could seamlessly blend into city life without anyone even batting an eyelid. Not only is it small and easy to park, but it also has an interior that’s incredibly well thought out and makes the most of the available space.

Nice work Anna! You can follow her adventures over on Instagram .

How To Build A Stealth Camper, In Short

So, if you want to build a stealth camper and couldn’t be bothered reading the rest of the article, then here are several common themes to follow:

• Low-key exterior colour to blend into your surroundings. 
• No or original side windows, preferably blacked out. 
• A bulkhead wall or inconspicuous curtain to hide the living space from the cab.
• No adventure gear such as bikes or surfboards on the exterior of your van.
• Keep stickers and decals to a bare minimum, and if you’re going to use a chimney, make it a small one!

If you follow these handy points, then you should be well on the way to creating your own tiny home to rival any of the examples in our list of the best stealth campers. Good luck, and let us know your plans over on Facebook , Instagram or Twitter . 

Are you vanlifer or weekend warrior? Join our  Facebook Group  and connect with our ever-growing community! Are cosy wooden cabins more your thing? Head over to our sister site, Cabin Clan for some woodland vibes and off-grid inspiration!

More Content From The Van Clan Team!

• Here are 8 reasons why you should travel in a van this Summer!
• Find out why micro campers are becoming so popular
• Check out the best camper trailers that money can buy!

Please note that all comments will be checked by our team before being approved.

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Stealth Camper Vans: 5 Best Options for Off-Grid Living

Introduction

For those seeking a nomadic and off-grid lifestyle, stealth camper vans provide the perfect solution. These inconspicuous vehicles not only offer the freedom of living on the road but also the ability to blend in seamlessly with urban and rural environments. In this guide, we’ll introduce you to the five best stealth camper vans, equipped with the essentials for off-grid living while keeping a low profile.

1. Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Van

The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is a popular choice for stealth camper van conversions. Its unassuming appearance allows you to park in urban areas without drawing attention. The van’s interior can be customized to include a kitchen, bed, and storage.

2. Ford Transit Van

The Ford Transit van is another versatile option for stealth camper van conversions. With various roof heights and wheelbase lengths, you can find the perfect Transit model for your off-grid lifestyle. These vans can be outfitted with a full range of amenities, from a compact kitchen to a comfortable sleeping area.

3. Ram ProMaster

The Ram ProMaster is known for its boxy and utilitarian design, making it an excellent choice for stealth camper van conversions. Its front-wheel-drive system offers a lower floor height, creating more headroom inside. You can easily set up a cozy living space, including a bed, kitchen, and bathroom.

4. Nissan NV Cargo Van

The Nissan NV Cargo van is often overlooked but offers great potential for stealth camper van conversions. Its exterior appearance doesn’t immediately suggest that it’s a living space. With a well-thought-out interior design, you can create a comfortable and discreet off-grid home on wheels.

5. Dodge Sprinter

The Dodge Sprinter, which is no longer in production but can still be found on the used market, is a popular choice for stealth camper van enthusiasts. Its boxy shape and reliable performance make it an excellent platform for off-grid living. You can easily install all the necessary amenities for a cozy mobile home.

Essentials for Off-Grid Living in Stealth Camper Vans

• Solar Power: Install solar panels on the van’s roof to harness the sun’s energy and power your appliances and devices.
• Water System: Create a water system with a sink, a fresh water tank, and a greywater tank for cooking and cleaning.
• Insulation: Proper insulation helps regulate the temperature inside the van, keeping you comfortable in various weather conditions.
• Kitchen Setup: A compact kitchen area with a stove, refrigerator, and storage is essential for preparing meals on the road.
• Bathroom Facilities: Consider a portable toilet or a wet bath to ensure you have restroom facilities wherever you go.
• Bedding: A comfortable bed that doubles as seating during the day is a must for a good night’s sleep.
• Storage: Efficient storage solutions are crucial to keep your belongings organized and maximize living space.
• Security Measures: Implement security features like window coverings and locks to protect your privacy.
• Stealth Design: Maintain an unassuming exterior appearance to blend in while parked in urban areas.

Stealth camper vans offer the perfect balance between mobility, comfort, and off-grid living. Whether you’re exploring the city, national parks, or remote wilderness, these vans enable you to live your nomadic dreams without sacrificing essential amenities. With the right van and thoughtful customization, you can experience the ultimate freedom of life on the road.

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Stealth Camping: A Complete Guide + 31 Tips For Your Next Trip

Last Updated on March 23, 2021 by Urbex Underground

Does camping on abandoned rooftops, cemeteries, or private beaches sound fun to you? If so, stealth camping might be right up your ally. In this article, we’ll teach you how to stealth camp the right way so you’re ready for your next covert adventure.

*Some products we mention in this article we are affiliates for. If you purchase through this link we may earn a small commission at no expense to you.*

The Anarchist’s Guide To Exploration

If you’re looking to dive deeper into the world of urban exploration, this book is for you. Learn how to uncover more abandoned places and the techniques used to capture their beauty.

What is stealth camping?

Stealth camping is the act of secretly camping in a location while remaining completely undetected without leaving a trace. The thrill of stealth camping comes from the level of freedom you experience when you can make virtually anywhere your campsite. Sometimes stealth camping is referred to as urban camping, scamping, guerrilla camping, wild camping, or free camping.

Using stealth camping techniques you can spend the night tucked away in the treeline instead of an expensive hotel. Or have the opportunity to travel across the country for very little money. Some people stealth camp in their cars or trucks and are spending the night in a new places all the time.

When using a car or truck, stealth camping can be an excellent way to travel the country on a budget without spending money on campground fees, motels, or rental cabins.

When covertly camping you’ll often find you need specific stealth camping gear that’s different from what you’d take when camping normally. Some people even make special stealth camping modifications to their vehicles in order to blend in better and be more comfortable.

If you want to see stealth camping in action, check out YouTuber Steve Wallis. This guy is the Canadian Bob Ross of stealth camping, and I thoroughly enjoy watching him find new challenging locations to camp from.

Is stealth camping illegal?

Depending on where you choose to camp will deem if you’re considered trespassing or not. Camping out in an abandoned building may be considered trespassing, while stealth camping in your van in a Walmart parking lot is perfectly legal.

Laws fill vary depending on where you are. For instance, there is no nationwide law in the United States against sleeping in your car, however in Minneapolis you can be fined if caught sleeping in your vehicle.

According to the the National Law Center on Homelessness & Poverty bans on sleeping or camping in public is becoming more popular across the country. From 2011 to 2014 city-wide camping bans increased 60%, mandating fines up to $1000 and even jail time.

While most of these laws are in major cities it can be tough to know exactly where stealth camping is legal or not. Large cities like Palo Alto are cracking down on public camping and sleeping in vehicles due to a sharp rise in homelessness.

It’s clear these laws seem highly ineffective, but getting caught at the wrong place at the wrong time can still carry a hefty fine.

This is why picking your location, and choosing the right stealth camping gear is critical to a successful night. While these laws may be in place, don’t let them discourage you. With the proper planning you can make sure you’re on the right side of the law, and at the very least avoiding detection.

We are not lawyers by the way, just fun-loving travelers. ?

Where To Find Stealth Camping Locations

The best places to stealth camp are off the beaten path, don’t get much traffic, and are away from prying eyes. Some of the best places to stealth camp are national parks, rooftops, beaches, cemeteries, abandoned buildings, and lakes.

If you’re not sleeping out of a vehicle you have a lot more flexibility and places to tuck yourself away in. A van might be cozy, but its still more noticeable than a tarp and a tree hammock. And of course, a van is a lot less noticeable than a full sized RV.

Use Google Maps to scout out a location from above, check for dense foliage you cab=n use for cover, paved roads that might get traffic, and parking spots for your vehicle if needed. Check for old industry along rivers, or dense untamed foliage along railroad tracks, just don’t camp too close to the tracks itself.

Try to avoid:

• Hunting grounds.
• Well lit areas.
• Roads, trails, and footpaths.
• Residential property.
• Storm drains.
• Dry riverbeds. (these areas can frequently flood)
• Unsafe rooftops and structures.
• Rough neighborhoods.

The beauty of stealth camping is you can camp where ever you want. Near a waterfall, in an abandoned building, off the side of a freeway, on a small island in the middle of the river. It’s about what you want to experience, and how much risk you’re willing to take on.

Stealth Camping Gear

Your stealth camping gear will vary depending on if you’re camping outside, or inside a van.

Overall you want your gear to be portable , durable , stealthy and affordable . The less you can back on your back the less suspicious you’ll look while moving to your campsite and the quicker you’ll be able to change locations.

Here’s a list of stealth camping gear you’ll want to make sure you have:

• Low-profile backpack (20-26 liters)
• Camouflaged bivy or hammock tent
• Slings for hammock tent
• Headlamp with red light mode
• Breathable lightweight sleeping bag
• Wool sleeping bag liner (for colder nights)
• Inflatable lightweight pillow
• Flashlight with red light mode
• Dyneema Fiber Hex Tarp (Keeps rain out and UV protection for hammocks)
• Water purifier
• Portable firestarter
• Titanium cup (for food and water)
• Folding trench shovel (Good for concealing small fires, and natures call)
• Mini first aid kit
• Ultralight folding stove
• Lightweight folding utensils
• Folding tree saw (Quieter than chopping wood)
• Spare paracord (Great for repairs and spare tiedowns)
• Collapsible water bottle (Good for when you find a clean source of water)
• Mini water purifier
• Folding pocket knife
• Pepper spray
• Folding machete

Having the right gear is important, so we dedicated an entire page to the best stealth camping gear for a more detailed review of the gear listed.

If you’re stealth camping from a van, check out our stealth van gear review for your ride.

Where To Sleep When Stealth Camping

When camping outside picking the right place to sleep it crucial, not only for remaining undetected, but also staying safe. Pick areas that are close to where you want to be, but not alongside any established path. Underneath a bridge might seem like a good place for stealth camping at first, but you’d be surprised how much traffic the under side of bridges get.

Fisherman tend to walk along the river and usually under bridges, same thing goes for park rangers. Bridges often shelter the homeless year round, and there are plenty of better places for you to setup camp.

In most cases you’ll want to be elevated and off of the ground. This keeps you warm and dry if you get rained on. Durable lightweight hammocks are my favorite places to sleep while stealth camping. Simply find an area between two trees, or two columns, and attach your hammock to either side. The great thing about a hammock tent is that’s lightweight, so you don’t have to fuss with a bunch of stakes, poles, and ties-offs.

Another added benefit to sleeping in a hammock tent is flexibility. With the right insulating blankets hammock tents can hold in heat incredibly well, making it a viable setup for winter explorations. If you do plan on stealth camping in the winter, try to have grey or white colored gear to better blend in.

Alternatively bivy style tents are lightweight and low profile for those who aren’t a fan of hammocks. Bivy tents can be setup in just a few minutes, and are a cozy way to keep a small footprint while stealth camping. You’ll often see bivy tents at remote research camps or out in safaris where weight management is crucial, and blending in seamlessly with the environment is a must.

Since bivy style tents are used on the ground, you’ll need a sleeping mat most cases, and have to be camping on level ground.

Tip: Hammocks don’t have to be high off the ground. Hammocks positioned lower offer more concealment and less silhouetting.

If you’re on foot, you’ll have to get creative for stealth camping locations before the sun goes down.

Here are some great stealth camping locations :

• Behind a haybale
• In a large cemetery
• The woods of a golf course
• A private beach
• A baseball dugout
• Behind a hotel, 24-hour gym, or Walmart
• Off season campgrounds
• Amphitheaters during off season

Setting Up Camp

The best time to setup camp is right before dusk. With sun setting you’ll have enough light to get everything ready for darkness, without shining your flashlight around in the middle of the night.

Having a headlamp with a dimmable light and red light option is a great hands-free way to setup your tent or hammock before bed. Try to avoid having a campfire at night. Yes, it can be tempting but if stealth is your number one priority skip it, and use a butane heater to cook your food. Alternatively if you’re only spending a night or two, dense protein bars are filling and don’t require a fire.

If you must have a fire do it at dawn or dusk. Dig a hole and conceal it on three sides and only burn dry sticks and kindling for small fire. This will help keep odor and light to a minimum and avoid any unwanted attention. If you need wood, consider using a reliable folding saw rather than an axe. I’ve noticed axes make more noise than sawing away at smaller trees for wood.

A better alternative is to either cook with butane , or a camping stove with firestarter tablets . The tablets are my personal favorite alternative to a fire, as they give off very little light and produce no odor or smoke. Each tablet lasts about 10-15 minutes, more than enough to get your water to a boil. Butane is more reliable but weights a bit more.

If you’re weary of people or animals entering your camp at night, consider setting some noise traps before bed. A simple string and cans be set as an early warning system and usually gives you enough time to get upright and ready for whatever is in the area. I’d also recommend carrying pepper spray or bear spray to help defend your camp from unwanted predators.

With that said it’s always good to have some things prepacked to leave in the early morning. This includes tools, trash, and any food you may still have leftover. A key part of stealth camping is returning the land back to it’s original condition. Make sure you cover any clearings you have made and to of course take any trash with your when you leave.

Stealth Camping in a Van

For people who want to stealth camp in their vehicles, places like Walmart that offer overnight parking 24/7 can be good places to scout out when traveling long distances.

Stealth camping in hotel parking lots can also be a great option, you’ll have access to vending machines inside, laundry services, and maybe even a free breakfast. ?

Some great places to park when stealth camping are:

• Hotel parking lots
• 24 hours stores like Walmart or Costco
• Truck stops
• National parks – ( Sometimes reservations are needed but this is often free )
• Casinos – (Often free, sometimes for a small fee. They want you to gamble!)
• Churches – (Getting permission first is usually best)
• Cracker Barrel – (They allow RV parking as well)
• Any land owned by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM)
• Any land owned by the Wildlife Management Areas (WMA)
• National Grasslands

Tip: Keep an eye out for where truckers park overnight. Oftentimes if they can park on a property, so can you.

Avoid parking on residential streets or places where there are no other cars around. Your van might blend in during working hours, but after everyone goes home you might stick out like a sore thumb.

Make sure your vehicle isn’t blocking any pathways, driveways, or garage doors and make note of any parking restriction signs in the area.

Avoid parking in:

• Private property
• Rough neighborhoods
• Residential areas
• City streets
• The same place for too long

Scope out the area ahead of time, you’ll want to get a feel for the neighborhood during daylight hours, but also watch if the environment changes as it gets dark.

Consider only spending a night or two in one spot to avoid attention. Assuming you are traveling around to different spots this shouldn’t be too hard for many who stealth camp in a vehicle.

While it can be beautiful to park and spend the night in a forest, many parks are patrolled and you’ll quickly be discovered during closing time. Consider camping outside for stealthier approaches.

Best Van for Stealth Camping

The best van for stealth camping are medium sized vans with either no back windows, or tinted windows. Avoid having “van life” stickers, flashy features, and items like bikes or surfboards mounted on the van.

At the same time you’ll want to avoid looking like the “creepy white van guy”, so white utility vans aren’t always the best option either. If you choose to go with a utility van, keep the vans outside appearance clean, and be extra cautious how your vehicle can be perceived when seen in the same area repeatedly.

Below are some of the best vans for stealth camping:

• Ford Transit
• Ram ProMaster
• Dodge Sprinter

Volkswagens and converted school buses may look fun, but draw way too much attention when stealth camping. If you’re broadcasting your van life lifestyle thieves will know you have way more valuables inside than a normal vehicle. Not good.

The Transit , ProMaster , and Sprinter all have their own different cargo sizes and wheel base. The larger your van camping space, the longer the wheelbase, and the longer the wheelbase the less maneuverable the vehicle becomes. Longer wheelbases mean wider turns and usually more difficulty going off road, especially up steeper hills.

All three brands have three different sizes of their vans. Small Wheelbase (SWB) , Long Wheelbase (LWB) , and Long Wheelbase Extended Bed (LWB-EB) . Most stealth camper vans that are used recreationally can stick with SWB or LWB vans. With extended bed vans you get more room, but become a lot more bulky, and stand out more on the road and when camping.

You’ll have to consider if you want to have a shower or toilet onboard, how comfortable you are with driving larger vehicles, and how much you want your van to stick out when parked covertly.

If you’re shopping around for stealth camper vans, use the chart below to compare the different versions of vans:

How to Stealth Camp in a Car

Stealth camping in a car is possible, but not nearly as comfortable or organized as a van would be. In most cars you won’t be able to lay completely flat so sleeping is a serious challenge for anyone around the six foot height range.

Some crossover vehicles like the Subaru Impreza could be modified to sleep in when putting down the rear seats. You would have just enough room to lay down and that’s about it. A big issue is being able to lay flat on top of the folded seats, as well as staying comfortable with changing temperatures and limited airflow.

In stealth camper vans many people build a simple wooden flat baseboard for their bed. This could be done for a car, but it would be a lot more challenging and take up much needed room that cars are already lacking in the first place.

YouTuber BeatTheBush actually has a super clever video on stealth camping in a car. Basically he converted his 4 door sedan into a stealth camping car by hiding his sleeping area with some Amazon boxes marked as ‘donation’. Check it out below.

30 Stealth Camping Tips

Below are some general tips you can use when trying to camp stealthily. These are for both stealth campers sleeping outside, as well as those camping inside of vehicles.

If you have any of your own tips, be sure to leave them in the comments below!

• Do your research first . Know where you’ll camp, what the law is, what the weather will be, and how you plan to enter and exit your campsite quietly. If you’re in a van know where you’ll park, and have a backup spot planned if you have to suddenly leave.
• Have the right stealth camping gear . Camping away from others means you have to rely on yourself. Make sure you have the proper gear, and an emergency first aid kit along with a form of communication if things go south.
• Try to enter and exit between dusk and dawn . Use the fleeting light to your advantage so you can setup camp. By the time you’re done you’ll be under the cover of darkness. You don’t want to get stuck in the pitch dark without your camp ready.
• Have an escape plan . If someone spots you and you need to go fast, have a route in mind that you’ll take. If a bear or wild dog attacks, know where you self defense tools are and where you’ll exit to.
• Avoid using light at night . This means no fires if possible. If you choose to have a fire, have it contained and surrounded on all sides to conceal the light. If you must use a flashlight use a red flashlight.
• Use gear that blends into your surroundings . These are normally dark greens, browns, and sometimes grey colors. Wear clothing that blends in as well. Deep navy blue is best at night, while solid black actually makes you stand out more.
• Watch for trail cams and other security . Keep your eyes peeled for trail cams, security patrols, and security cameras. You obviously want to avoid these.
• Avoid camping along already established trails . Joggers, hikers, or property owners might be able to spot you along their normal route. As a rule of thumb, the harder it is for you to get to a campsite, the stealthier it will be.
• Avoid silhouetting against the night sky . Make sure you and your camp does not stand out against the background or the skyline. If you’re camping somewhere elevated like a hilltop this can be more challenging to conceal.
• Pack light so you can move quick . In the event you have to leave camp quickly you won’t have time to break down a large tent. Pack essentials, and audit your stealth camping gear often to see if there’s anything you can cut.
• Avoid camping near flood zones . Check the weather before you leave and makes sure you’re not in a flood zone, or down the way from a overflow sewer. A flash flood in a dry riverbed or flushing of hydrants could leave you soaked, and possibly even drowned.
• Keep your numbers low . Generally the more people you have with you, the more likely you are getting spotted.
• If you get caught, have a story . If you’re caught, be prepared to peacefully leave. If you’re camping somewhere strange, consider having a story as to why you’re there in the first place.
• Keep fires small, and underground . By digging a pit and keeping the fire small, you avoid unnecessary suspicion. Position the fire under thick branches to dissipate the smoke, and use only dry sticks and kindling for fuel. The best time for a fire is during the haze of sunrise and sunset.
• Use what others leave behind . Not only does this clean up the environment, but it can help reduce what you bring into the site. For instance, old cinder blocks can be transformed into low-profile makeshift stoves.
• Make sure your stealth camp van has proper airflow . Many custom vans come with their own ventilation fan installs that circulate air up and out. This can help protect from carbon monoxide and propane gas leaks. Having a CO2 monitor installed is also necessary.
• Hide valuables in your stealth camper van . Break ins do happen. In addition to keeping your van locked and alarmed when away, consider installing some hidden compartments during your build. These can hold a spare key, passports, credit cards, or emergency money.
• Save money planning your meals . It can be tempting to eat out a lot while on the road. Having an energy efficient fridge for your vehicle and a portable stove helps you avoid that temptation, while eating well on the move.
• No shower? No problem . For extended trips, not all stealth camper vans have showers built in. A little known trick is to subscribe for a 24 Hour Fitness membership and use their showers along the way. There are 400+ 24 Hour Fitness gyms that span across 17 states in the US, and countless other gym chains you can choose from as well.
• Know your number when it comes to power . If you have lights consider using LED, and know exactly how much electricity each appliance uses.
• Avoid flashy looking stealth camping vans. The goal is to blend in. Ideally you’d rather look like a work van from the outside, than a sleek brand new Sprinter.
• Use blackout curtains to stop light leakage . A can lighting up at night can draw unwanted attention, and overhead lights can keep you awake. Good vehicle blackout curtains are a must, and usually can attach with magnets or Velcro.
• Cook food and drain water before parking for the night. Smoke from the overhead fan can alert others, especially if you’re parking overnight in the cold. Water often leaks under vans, which could attract attention depending on where you are.
• Always exit from the front of your van. Not only does it look strange if you’re leaving from the back, but it gives people the idea you’re spending a bit too much time in your vehicle.
• Practice good van safety measures . If you receive a knock on your van, ask who it is. If it is the police, move to the front of the vehicle and speak with them. If you’re not sure if it really is the police, ask them to read their badge number. They should be able to do this quickly and accurately. Never exit from the side of your van in these situations.
• Keep your front seats clear . If you do need to leave in a hurry, you don’t want to be slowed down by junk in your front seat.
• Know your local wildlife . If you’re outdoors, be familiar with the types of threats you may encounter and how to navigate them. Bears, scorpions, and skunks can seriously mess up a good nights rest. Plan for these encounters as you travel to new locations.
• Know the local language. For those traveling abroad, know a bit of the language. A simple, “Excuse me” or “I’m sorry” can get you out of potential trouble.
• If you’re on a bike, stash it . Bikes are reflective, and oftentimes a target for thieves. Consider locking up your bike near camp, and using a dark green cover that blends in with your environment. Since you won’t be able to bring the bike inside a tent, you can cover it with either it’s own cover, or with a tarp that is pitched at an angle.
• Be aware of hunting seasons. While you should make sure you’re not stealth camping on hunting grounds, you might find yourself in an area where you’re not sure. Know when hunting seasons start and try to avoid areas you think might be used for public or private hunting. You don’t want holes in your tent, or you!
• Access your camp from a distance. One you’re setup, see how visible you are from the nearest trail or road. This will give you a good idea of just how concealed your camp is. Leave a light on in your camp and see just how visible it is from afar. This will also you device how much light you’ll be using at night, and if you’ll be able to covertly have a fire.

They both rely on stealth and mean the same thing. Camping in urban environments usually requires a level of stealth to remain undetected, while camping on a private beach may not be ‘urban’ but still require you to camp covertly.

Yes, Costco and Walmart allow vans as well as RVs to park overnight. Park towards the back to leave room for shoppers.

If your vehicle is insulated than yes. If not, most vehicles lose heat quickly. Staying inside your car can be warmer especially if there are harsh winds outside.

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Stealth Camping

10 best vans for stealth camping adventures.

Discover the top 10 vans for stealth camping adventures, each offering unique features that will elevate your camping experience – but what makes them truly stand out?

When it comes to stealth camping, finding the perfect van can mean the difference between blending in effortlessly or standing out in a crowd. The selection of vans we've curated offers a mix of functionality, discretion, and customization potential that caters to the needs of stealth campers.

From the sleek Mercedes-Benz Sprinter to the unassuming Nissan NV Cargo, each van on this list brings something unique to the table, promising a comfortable and under-the-radar camping experience. But what truly sets these vans apart in the world of stealth camping?

Key Takeaways

• Ford Transit, Ram ProMaster, Nissan NV Cargo, and Dodge Sprinter offer versatile and discreet options for stealth camping.
• Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Ford Transit provide spacious interiors with customization potential for off-grid living.
• Dodge Ram Promaster and Nissan NV Cargo blend functionality with stealthy designs for urban camping.
• Chevrolet Express and Ram ProMaster City offer affordable and reliable choices for stealth camping adventures.

Top Stealth Camping Vans Overview

When embarking on stealth camping adventures, it's crucial to choose a van that offers both functionality and discretion. Among the top stealth camper vans available, the Ford Transit stands out for its versatility, with different models offering a range of features and amenities to suit various camping needs.

The Ram ProMaster, with its boxy design, is a practical choice for stealth camper van conversions, providing ample space for customization while maintaining a low-profile appearance.

The Nissan NV Cargo Van strikes a good balance between being discreet and functional, making it a reliable option for stealth camping adventures. Even though the Dodge Sprinter has been discontinued, its reputation for reliability makes it a solid choice for those looking to convert it into a stealth camper van.

Each of these vans offers customizable options to cater to different camping styles and preferences, making them practical choices for stealth camping enthusiasts seeking a blend of functionality and discretion.

Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van stands out as a top choice for stealth camping enthusiasts seeking a spacious and customizable option for their adventures. With its reputation for reliability and durability, the Sprinter serves as an excellent base for camper van conversions, offering a solid foundation for creating a personalized camping setup. One of the standout features of the Sprinter is its generous headroom, providing ample space for comfortable living and movement inside the van.

For those looking to explore off-the-beaten-path locations, the Sprinter's available 4×4 models offer the capability to navigate various terrains, expanding the possibilities for camping destinations. Additionally, the sleek design and inconspicuous appearance of the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter enhance its stealth capabilities, making it ideal for urban camping where blending in is essential. Whether you're customizing the interior for extended trips or seeking versatility for different camping environments, the Sprinter's combination of space, customization options, and stealth features make it a top contender in the world of camper vans.

Ford Transit

A popular choice among stealth camping enthusiasts, the Ford Transit offers a spacious interior and versatile layout options for customized camping experiences. The Ford Transit's adaptability shines through its various roof heights and wheelbase lengths, allowing for personalized setups tailored to individual needs in the van life community.

Renowned for its reliability, this van is a dependable companion for long-term stealth camping adventures, ensuring peace of mind on the road. Its unobtrusive exterior design seamlessly integrates into urban environments, making it an ideal choice for discreet camping excursions.

Inside, efficient storage solutions and a comfortable living space make the Ford Transit well-suited for extended off-grid living experiences. Whether you're seeking a reliable vehicle for urban stealth camping or preparing for off-grid exploration, the Ford Transit provides a solid foundation for your van life journey.

Dodge Ram Promaster

When considering the Dodge Ram Promaster for stealth camping, we look at its boxy design that optimizes interior space. This feature is key for creating a practical layout that suits our living and storage requirements.

The Promaster's discreet exterior appearance also allows us to blend in seamlessly in urban settings while enjoying our camping adventures.

Top Features: Dodge Ram Promaster

Boasting a spacious and versatile interior layout, the Dodge Ram Promaster stands out as a prime choice for stealth camping enthusiasts seeking a blend of comfort and functionality. Here are some of the top features that make the Dodge Ram Promaster ideal for stealth camper van conversions:

• Boxy Design : The Promaster's boxy design maximizes interior space, providing ample room for customization.
• Versatile Platform : This van offers a versatile platform that allows for the installation of essential amenities such as a bed, storage solutions, and kitchen setups.
• Urban Environments : With its discreet appearance, the Promaster blends well in urban settings, perfect for stealth camping adventures.
• Off-Grid Living : The reliable performance and durability of the Dodge Ram Promaster make it a top choice for off-grid living experiences, ensuring comfort and functionality on the road.

Pricing Options

The pricing options for the Dodge Ram Promaster cater to a range of budgets, making it accessible to both cost-conscious buyers and those seeking more luxurious conversions. For those interested in a new base model, prices typically start around $30,000, offering a good balance between affordability and features.

Alternatively, used Dodge Ram Promaster vans can be a budget-friendly option, with prices ranging from $20,000 to $25,000 for models in good condition. If you're looking to add luxury amenities or customized conversions to your van, be prepared to invest between $40,000 and $100,000, depending on your preferences.

The Dodge Ram Promaster's flexibility in pricing makes it a popular choice for stealth camping enthusiasts looking for a van that suits their needs without breaking the bank.

Nissan NV Cargo

When considering stealth camping options, the Nissan NV Cargo van stands out for its spacious interior layout and efficient storage solutions.

With ample space for customization, such as adding a bed and kitchen setup, this van can accommodate various camping needs.

Its boxy design not only maximizes interior space but also allows for discreet camping in urban settings.

Spacious Interior Layout

With its generous interior dimensions and versatile layout, the Nissan NV Cargo van offers ample space for creating a comfortable and functional living environment perfect for stealth camping conversions. When considering the spacious interior of the Nissan NV Cargo van, here are some key features to keep in mind:

• Customization : The van provides ample room for designing personalized living spaces.
• Urban Blend : Its discreet exterior design allows for seamless integration into urban environments while providing a cozy interior.
• Boxy Shape : The boxy shape of the Nissan NV Cargo maximizes interior space, allowing for essential amenities in a stealth camper setup.
• Functionality : Known for its functionality and versatility, this van is a top choice for stealth camping adventures.

Efficient Storage Solutions

Exploring efficient storage solutions in the Nissan NV Cargo van reveals a multitude of customizable options catering to the organization and accessibility of camping gear and supplies for stealth camping adventures. The van boasts customizable shelving and cargo tie-down points, maximizing interior space for storage.

Its high roof option creates additional vertical storage space for larger items, while interior customization options allow for strategic organization to optimize living space. The Nissan NV Cargo's discreet appearance and functional storage features make it ideal for off-grid living and urban stealth camping.

With a focus on practicality and convenience, this van offers a smart solution for those seeking efficient storage solutions in a vehicle tailored for adventurous journeys.

Chevrolet Express

The versatility of the Chevrolet Express cargo van makes it a sought-after choice for stealth camping enthusiasts seeking practicality and discretion in their outdoor adventures. Here are some key points to consider:

• Affordability : The Chevrolet Express is a cost-effective option for those looking to venture into stealth camping without breaking the bank.
• Blank Canvas Interior : Its spacious and undecorated interior serves as a perfect blank canvas for customization into a comfortable stealth camper with all the essential amenities.
• Urban Areas : The inconspicuous design of the Chevrolet Express allows for seamless blending in urban environments, enhancing the stealth camping experience.
• Reliable Performance : With a reputation for reliability and durability, the Chevrolet Express offers peace of mind during long stealth camping adventures.

For stealth campers looking to explore the great outdoors without drawing unwanted attention, the Chevrolet Express provides a practical and reliable solution at an affordable price point.

Ram ProMaster City

When considering the Ram ProMaster City for stealth camping adventures, we find that its compact stealth design allows for inconspicuous overnight stays in urban areas.

The versatile interior layout of the ProMaster City provides ample space for essential camping amenities while maintaining a low profile.

Additionally, its efficient fuel consumption makes it a practical choice for city exploration without drawing unnecessary attention.

Compact Stealth Design

Compact stealth design defines the Ram ProMaster City, a van renowned for its ability to seamlessly blend into urban environments for discreet camping experiences. When considering the Ram ProMaster City for your stealth camping adventures, here are some key features to keep in mind:

• Inconspicuous Appearance: The van's compact size and sleek design allow it to go unnoticed in city settings.
• Sufficient Space: Despite its smaller footprint, the Ram ProMaster City provides ample room for essential amenities in a stealth camper setup.
• Maneuverability: Easy navigation in tight urban spaces enables discreet parking and camping in crowded areas.
• Practicality: The combination of compact design and practical features makes the Ram ProMaster City an excellent choice for urban camping enthusiasts seeking a stealthy camper van.

Versatile Interior Layout

For maximizing comfort and functionality in your Ram ProMaster City, exploring its versatile interior layout is key to creating a customized living space for your stealth camping adventures.

The van's compact design lends itself well to urban stealth camping, while still offering ample room for essential amenities. Its tall roof not only provides standing room inside but also allows for the inclusion of a bed, storage solutions, a kitchen setup, and even bathroom facilities for off-grid living.

The efficient use of space in the ProMaster City ensures that every inch is utilized effectively, making it a practical choice for stealth campers looking to optimize their living quarters without sacrificing comfort or functionality.

Efficient Fuel Consumption

With a 2.4L Tigershark MultiAir 2 engine, the Ram ProMaster City excels in efficient fuel consumption, making it a practical choice for cost-effective travel. The ProMaster City offers a competitive EPA estimated 21 city/28 highway MPG, ideal for stealth campers seeking fuel efficiency on urban adventures.

Its compact size allows for easy maneuvering in tight city spaces, enhancing its appeal for urban stealth camping. Equipped with a 9-speed automatic transmission, this van delivers smooth performance while maximizing fuel efficiency.

The ProMaster City's fuel-efficient design ensures longer journeys on a single tank of gas, making it a reliable companion for those looking to explore while keeping costs in check.

The GMC Savana stands out as a top choice for stealth camping enthusiasts seeking a versatile and inconspicuous camper van option. Its simple exterior design allows it to blend seamlessly into urban environments, providing a discreet camping experience. The GMC Savana offers ample space for camper van conversions, making it easy to install essential amenities and efficient storage solutions for off-grid living. This van's reliable performance and sturdy build make it well-suited for extended travel adventures off the beaten path. Additionally, the GMC Savana's affordability and widespread availability make it a practical option for individuals looking to embark on stealth camping adventures without a significant financial investment.

Ford Transit Connect

Stealth camping enthusiasts seeking a compact and efficient camper van option often turn to the Ford Transit Connect for its urban-friendly design and practical amenities. The Ford Transit Connect is a versatile van that excels in inner-city settings, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious campers looking to blend in seamlessly while exploring urban areas. Here are four key features that make the Ford Transit Connect an ideal vehicle for stealth camping adventures:

• Compact Design: The Ford Transit Connect's small size allows for easy maneuvering through crowded city streets and tight parking spaces.
• Fuel-Efficient: With its economical fuel consumption, the Transit Connect is perfect for extended urban explorations without breaking the bank.
• Inconspicuous Appearance: Its unassuming exterior helps campers maintain a low profile, ideal for staying under the radar in urban environments.
• Versatile Interior: Despite its compact size, the Transit Connect offers ample interior space for essential camping amenities like sleeping arrangements, storage, and a basic kitchen setup.

Toyota Sienna

Compact and versatile, the Toyota Sienna emerges as a top choice for stealth camping enthusiasts seeking a reliable and inconspicuous camper van option. Its compact size and inconspicuous appearance make it ideal for blending in while on the road, allowing for discreet urban camping.

Known for its reliability and fuel efficiency, the Toyota Sienna is well-suited for long-term stealth camping adventures, providing a comfortable living space for those leading a nomadic lifestyle. With clever layout and organization, this van can accommodate basic amenities like a bed and storage, offering practicality and comfort in a stealthy package.

The Toyota Sienna's versatility and affordability further enhance its appeal, making it a popular choice among stealth campers looking to explore without drawing unwanted attention. Whether cruising through cities or camping off the beaten path, the Toyota Sienna proves to be a dependable companion for those embracing the nomadic spirit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best vehicle for stealth camping.

When seeking the best vehicle for stealth camping, we prioritize blending in with our surroundings.

Opting for a low-profile design and inconspicuous exterior color helps maintain a low profile. Avoiding external signs or logos reduces unwanted attention, while limited visible gear storage enhances stealth.

Tinted windows or curtains provide privacy and further aid in staying under the radar during our camping adventures.

Is Stealth Camping in a Van Illegal?

Stealth camping in a van is a practice that requires caution and adherence to local laws. It's essential to research the legality of this activity in each area you plan to visit.

Violating these laws can lead to fines, vehicle impoundment, or legal trouble. To stay out of trouble, respect local regulations, and consider designated camping spots or obtaining necessary permits.

Always prioritize safety and compliance to enjoy your van adventures without any legal hassles.

What Is the Best Van to Use for Camping?

When choosing a van for camping, consider factors like space, features, and reliability. Look for a model that suits your needs and preferences.

Research popular options such as Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, Ford Transit, Ram ProMaster, Nissan NV Cargo, and even the Dodge Sprinter if you can find one. Each van offers unique benefits, so weigh them carefully before making a decision.

Personalize your camping experience with the right van choice.

What's the Best Van to Turn Into a Camper?

When it comes to turning a van into a camper, the best choice depends on your specific needs and preferences. Factors to consider include the van's size, layout, and features that align with your camping style.

Researching different van models like the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, Ford Transit, Ram ProMaster, Nissan NV Cargo, and Dodge Sprinter can help you determine which one is the ideal candidate for your camper conversion project.

In conclusion, these top 10 vans for stealth camping are absolute game-changers for urban adventurers looking to fly under the radar while living off-grid in style.

With their versatile designs and customizable features, these vans offer the perfect blend of comfort and inconspicuousness for a truly epic camping experience.

So, pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready for the ultimate stealth camping adventure of a lifetime!

Jason is the author of Laienhaft, a blog for all things outdoor and camping. If you’re looking for the best tent to take on your next camping trip, or need some advice on how to get started with recreational camping, Jason has you covered. He’s also an expert on survival skills – if you’re ever lost in the wilderness, he’s the guy you want to find!

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What's the point of stealth camping.

Curious about stealth camping?

Stealth camping provides an opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts to immerse themselves in nature without the constraints of traditional campsites. It allows for a sense of freedom and exploration, as campers can seek out secluded and off-the-beaten-path locations to set up camp. This unconventional approach to camping can be a rewarding experience for those looking to disconnect from the busyness of everyday life and connect with the natural world on a deeper level.

For those interested in a more spontaneous and adventurous camping experience, stealth camping offers a unique way to discover hidden gems in nature while also saving on accommodation costs. The thrill of finding a secret spot to pitch a tent and spend the night adds an element of excitement to the outdoor experience. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the idea of stealth camping, there are plenty of benefits to be gained from venturing off the grid and embracing the unknown .

• Cost-effective way to camp in unique, secluded spots.
• Experience solitude, mindfulness, and bond with nature.
• Thrilling adventure in uncharted territories with unexpected discoveries.
• Enjoy privacy, relaxation, and wildlife encounters.
• Break free from constraints, connect intimately with raw wilderness.

Benefits of Stealth Camping

Stealth camping not only offers a cost-effective camping alternative but also allows us the freedom to choose unique and secluded locations for our outdoor adventures. By avoiding traditional campsites, we can save money on accommodation fees and instead immerse ourselves in the beauty of remote areas. The thrill of finding hidden spots for camping adds a sense of adventure and exploration to our trips, whether in the wilderness or urban settings.

One of the significant advantages of stealth camping is the flexibility it provides in our travel plans. Without the need to reserve campsites in advance, we can adjust our itinerary on the go and embrace spontaneity. This flexibility opens up opportunities for unexpected discoveries and experiences that traditional camping mightn't offer.

Engaging in stealth camping also allows us to hone our outdoor skills. From finding suitable camp spots to setting up camp discreetly, each aspect requires a level of expertise that contributes to our growth as outdoor enthusiasts. Moreover, the seclusion of stealth camping fosters a deep connection to nature , enhancing our appreciation for the environment and our place within it.

Connection With Nature

Immersing ourselves in nature through stealth camping fosters a profound connection with the environment, enriching our outdoor experiences. Here are five ways in which connecting with nature through stealth camping enhances our overall well-being and appreciation for the natural world:

• Solitude and Tranquility : Away from the hustle and bustle of daily life, stealth camping offers a peaceful retreat into the serenity of nature.
• Mindfulness and Appreciation : By immersing ourselves in the beauty of the outdoors, we cultivate a deeper sense of mindfulness and gratitude for the world around us.
• Stress Reduction and Mental Well-being : Disconnecting from technology and embracing the simplicity of nature can significantly reduce stress levels and improve our mental well-being.
• Natural Beauty : The awe-inspiring landscapes and diverse ecosystems encountered during stealth camping awaken our senses to the sheer beauty of the natural world.
• Bonding with Nature : Through stealth camping, we forge a stronger connection with the environment, fostering a deep bond that lingers even after we return to our daily lives.

Thrill of the Unknown

As we venture into the realm of stealth camping, the allure of the unknown beckons, promising exhilarating experiences and unexpected discoveries awaiting us in uncharted territories. The adrenaline rush and sense of adventure that come with choosing unfamiliar and hidden spots for camping add a thrilling dimension to our outdoor escapades. Each new location holds the potential for unique discoveries , fueling our sense of exploration and mystery as we navigate through nature's hidden gems.

The element of surprise plays a significant role in stealth camping, leading to memorable experiences that linger long after the trip ends. Embracing the unknown not only provides a rush of excitement but also fosters self-reliance as we adapt to unforeseen circumstances in the wild. This connection with nature on a deeper level enhances our appreciation for the environment and our place within it, creating a profound and lasting bond with the great outdoors.

Solitude and Privacy

Seeking seclusion amidst the tranquility of nature, we find solace and privacy in the art of stealth camping. Here are some key aspects to consider when embracing solitude and privacy in the wilderness:

• Introspection : Stealth camping provides the perfect environment for deep self-reflection and contemplation.
• Wildlife Encounters : Being in a secluded setting allows for unique interactions with wildlife, offering a deeper connection to nature.
• Relaxation : The peaceful surroundings of stealth camping create a serene atmosphere for unwinding and rejuvenating the mind.
• Mindfulness : Immersed in natural surroundings, campers can practice mindfulness, focusing on the present moment and their connection to the environment.
• Escape from Daily Life : Privacy in stealth camping enables individuals to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, providing a much-needed break to recharge.

In essence, solitude and privacy in stealth camping offer a rare opportunity to disconnect, unwind, and find harmony in the simplicity of nature.

Breaking Free From Constraints

Breaking away from the confines of traditional camping norms, stealth camping offers individuals the freedom to explore remote and unconventional locations with a sense of independence and adventure . By engaging in stealth camping, campers can save money on accommodation expenses and have the flexibility to choose their own secluded spots , away from the hustle and bustle of crowded campsites. This practice fosters self-reliance and resourcefulness as campers must rely on their skills to find suitable locations while maintaining a low profile.

Stealth camping provides a unique opportunity to connect with nature in a more intimate setting , immersing oneself in the natural environment without the distractions of modern life. The adventure of finding hidden spots to set up camp adds an element of thrill and excitement to the camping experience, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a break from the constraints of traditional camping areas. Embracing stealth camping allows individuals to break free from the limitations of conventional campsites and truly experience the wilderness in its raw, untouched form .

Is Stealth Camping Just Trespassing?

Stealth camping can involve trespassing if not done responsibly. Understanding local laws is crucial to avoid legal issues. We must respect landowners' rights by choosing legal camping spots. Research and mindfulness are key for a successful camping experience.

What Are the Rules of Stealth Camping?

Rules of stealth camping vary by location. We must research local regulations, signs, and guidelines. Choose safe spots to avoid legal troubles. Practicing leave no trace principles is vital. Awareness is key for a successful experience.

What Is the Point of Car Camping?

Car camping offers convenience, comfort, and flexibility. It allows us to easily access various destinations by car, eliminating the need for tent setup. Families, solo travelers, and road trip enthusiasts find it to be a budget-friendly outdoor option.

What Is the Difference Between Boondocking and Stealth Camping?

Boondocking involves camping in remote areas with self-contained vehicles, focusing on self-sufficiency. Stealth camping, done discreetly in varied vehicles or on foot, emphasizes remaining hidden. Both offer unique experiences away from traditional campgrounds, with boondocking emphasizing off-grid living.

As we lay beneath a blanket of stars, the sounds of nature surrounding us, we realize the true beauty of stealth camping . The thrill of the unknown, the solitude and privacy, the connection with nature – all reasons why we break free from constraints and immerse ourselves in the wilderness.

It's in these moments that we feel truly alive, surrounded by nothing but the vast expanse of the great outdoors. Stealth camping isn't just a hobby, but a way of life .

Stealthy Tent Camping: A Guide to Discreet Outdoor Adventures

Sneak into the wilderness with stealthy tent camping tips for blending in and staying hidden – discover how to master the art of discreet outdoor adventures!

When it comes to stealthy tent camping, our guide emphasizes essential gear like a low-profile tent and dark-colored backpack for blending in seamlessly. Choosing a private and secluded campsite with natural cover is crucial, as is utilizing earth tones and keeping noise levels down to maintain a low profile.

Blending into the natural surroundings and adhering to Leave No Trace principles are also key components of successful discreet outdoor adventures. Master these tips for an unforgettable experience in the wilderness.

• Choose low-profile gear in natural colors for blending in.
• Camp in secluded areas away from popular spots.
• Minimize noise and use camouflage clothing for discretion.
• Follow Leave No Trace principles for sustainability and respect.
• Utilize natural cover and keep a low profile to avoid detection.

Essential Stealth Camping Gear

When embarking on a stealth camping adventure, having the right gear is crucial for a successful and comfortable experience. A low-profile tent is essential for a stealthy setup, allowing you to blend into your surroundings and avoid drawing unwanted attention. Opt for a dark-colored backpack or duffel bag to further camouflage your gear in the wilderness.

Ensuring a good night's rest is key, so choose a sleeping bag suitable for the expected temperature to keep you warm and cozy throughout the night. A quality sleeping pad not only provides insulation from the cold ground but also offers cushioning on uneven terrain for a more comfortable sleep. An inflatable pillow is a wise addition to your gear, as it adds that extra touch of comfort without taking up much space in your pack.

Choosing the Right Campsite

To ensure a stealthy camping experience , identifying the right campsite plays a critical role in maintaining a low profile and minimizing the risk of detection. When selecting a campsite for discreet camping, prioritize private and secluded areas that offer natural cover to blend in with the surroundings.

Look for spots with minimal foot traffic and limited visibility to avoid drawing unwanted attention. Consider camping near water sources for convenience while remaining discreet. Opt for locations away from popular trails and common camping areas to enhance privacy.

It's essential to choose a flat and level campsite that allows for a suitable tent setup without causing environmental damage. By carefully selecting a campsite that meets these criteria, you can enjoy a stealthy outdoor adventure while respecting nature and minimizing your impact on the environment.

Blending Into Natural Surroundings

We can enhance our stealth camping experience by seamlessly blending into the natural surroundings using a low-profile tent in natural colors such as green or brown. Opting for a tent that matches the environment helps avoid standing out and drawing attention.

When selecting a campsite, aim for a secluded area away from popular trails and high-traffic spots to ensure privacy and minimize visibility. Utilize natural materials like branches, leaves, and rocks to camouflage your tent and gear, making them less noticeable from a distance.

It's crucial to avoid using bright lights or creating loud noises that could attract unwanted attention, disrupting the peaceful environment you seek. Additionally, be mindful of scents by refraining from strong-smelling food or personal care products that might lure wildlife or other campers to your location.

Maintaining a Low Profile

For a stealthy camping experience, maintaining a low profile is essential to avoid drawing unwanted attention to your campsite. When selecting camping gear, opt for colors that blend into the surroundings, like earth tones or dark shades, to minimize your impact and avoid standing out.

It's crucial to set up your tent in secluded areas away from popular trails and campsites to ensure privacy and discretion while urban stealth camping. Keep noise levels to a minimum and avoid using bright lights that can attract attention.

Camouflage clothing and gear can also help you blend in with the environment and avoid drawing unwanted eyes towards your campsite. Remember to tidy up your campsite and use natural materials like branches and foliage to further conceal your presence.

Leave No Trace Principles

When stealth camping, adhering to Leave No Trace principles is paramount for minimizing your environmental impact and ensuring the preservation of natural spaces. To minimize noise and respect the tranquility of your natural surroundings, practice responsible outdoor ethics by following these tips. Dispose of waste properly by carrying out all trash, including food scraps, and using designated waste disposal areas when available. Leave natural items untouched; avoid picking flowers, disturbing rocks, or damaging trees.

Respect wildlife habitats by observing animals from a safe distance and not feeding them. By incorporating Leave No Trace guidelines into your stealth camping routine, you can help preserve nature's beauty and ensure the wilderness's integrity for future outdoor adventurers. These sustainable camping practices not only reduce your ecological footprint but also contribute to a more responsible and enjoyable outdoor experience.

Embrace Leave No Trace principles as a fundamental part of your stealth camping adventures to promote wilderness sustainability and maintain the natural harmony of the environments you explore.

Is Stealth Camping Illegal in Usa?

Stealth camping legality in the USA varies; understanding local rules is crucial. Violating regulations can lead to fines or removal. Researching laws beforehand helps us avoid legal issues, ensuring responsible and informed camping practices.

Stealth camping isn't just trespassing; it's about strategic, low-impact outdoor stays. By respecting laws, nature, and others, we can enjoy secluded adventures responsibly. With proper planning and awareness of regulations, we can camp discreetly.

We distinguish boondocking as remote camping with self-contained vehicles and stealth camping as discreet urban or off-limits camping. Boondocking prioritizes self-sufficiency in natural settings, while stealth camping involves blending in and avoiding detection in varied environments for unique outdoor experiences.

How Do You Get Away With Stealth Camping?

We stay hidden by choosing secluded spots, minimizing noise and light, and using natural camouflage. Our goal is to leave no trace and blend in with the surroundings for a discreet camping experience.

In conclusion, stealthy tent camping requires strategic gear , careful site selection, natural blending , and low-profile behavior . By following these principles and practicing Leave No Trace ethics, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy discreet adventures in the wilderness.

Remember, pack smart, stay hidden, and leave nature untouched for the next stealthy camper to enjoy.

Happy camping!

Stealth Small Car Camping: 7 Tips for a Covert Adventure

Looking for a discreet camping adventure? Learn how to master the art of stealth car camping with these seven essential tips.

When you're up for a covert small car camping adventure , we've got you covered with seven key tips. Start by choosing a microcamper like a Honda Fit or Toyota Prius for versatility and discretion. Strategically park in secluded, low-traffic spots with natural barriers or opt for urban camouflage in industrial zones. Pack compact sleeping gear , hygiene essentials, and blend in with your surroundings using earth-toned gear. For legal peace of mind, consider designated camping sites .

Ready for more tips to ace your covert camping game? Go on…

• Opt for microcampers like Honda Fit or Toyota Prius for compact stealth camping.
• Choose discreet vehicles like Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla for urban blending.
• Prioritize DIY conversions for cozy sleeping arrangements in small cars.
• Utilize strategic parking in areas with natural barriers and minimal foot traffic.
• Select well-lit, secluded spots in industrial zones or hospital lots for nighttime urban camping.

Choosing the Right Vehicle

When embarking on small car camping adventures , selecting the right vehicle is crucial for a comfortable and inconspicuous experience. To hone our stealth camping skills, finding a spot that accommodates our vehicle is key. Microcampers like the Honda Fit or Toyota Prius excel in this aspect due to their compact size and versatility , allowing us to blend in seamlessly with our surroundings. For urban stealth camping in tight spaces, compact cars such as the Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla can be discreet options, enabling us to navigate crowded areas with ease.

In our quest for the perfect camping vehicle, considering a DIY conversion can elevate our experience. Small cars with foldable seats or spacious interiors offer the flexibility needed to create a cozy sleeping area . Additionally, opting for a vehicle with tinted windows or window covers not only enhances privacy but also adds to the overall stealth factor. By prioritizing features like fuel efficiency and reliability, we can ensure a smooth and hassle-free camping adventure in our chosen small car.

Discreet Parking Strategies

When seeking the perfect spot to park for a night of car camping, blending in seamlessly with the surroundings is key to avoid unwanted attention.

We recommend choosing locations with natural barriers like bushes or trees that offer an added layer of privacy.

Also, consider areas with minimal foot traffic or those not regularly monitored to maintain a low profile during your stay.

Nighttime Urban Camouflage

For those seeking to blend seamlessly into the urban night, strategic parking with the windowless side facing the street is key to maintaining a low profile while camping in the city.

When embracing the cover of darkness as stealth campers, it's crucial to arrive late and depart early to reduce the chances of attracting unwanted attention during nighttime urban camping.

Street cleaning signs can serve as allies, offering opportunities for inconspicuous parking near trees that provide additional privacy.

Opting for well-lit areas ensures safety while still preserving the covert nature of your camping spot.

Industrial zones, hospital lots, and the vicinity of 24-hour stores present as ideal locations for discreet urban camping escapades.

Remote Wilderness Retreats

Choosing remote wilderness areas for discreet parking during a wilderness retreat enhances the sense of seclusion and adventure for stealth campers seeking a truly immersive experience. Opting for secluded spots away from main roads and popular trails is crucial in maintaining the covert nature of the camping endeavor. Utilizing natural features like trees or rock formations can aid in concealing the parked vehicle effectively.

It's essential to avoid high-traffic areas and instead select locations with minimal human activity to uphold the stealthy presence while camping. Look for spots with natural barriers or visual obstructions to enhance privacy and security during the wilderness retreat. Embracing these strategies in remote wilderness settings can elevate the overall experience for those seeking a discreet and adventurous escape.

Residential Area Stay

As we explore strategies for discreet parking in residential areas during car camping, seeking spots near apartment buildings or houses with ample yard space becomes a key consideration. When looking to find a good spot to set up camp in a residential area, consider the following:

• Opt for areas with minimal traffic flow and no through roads to maintain a low profile.
• Choose spots near apartment buildings or houses with large yards to blend in seamlessly with the surroundings.
• Look for street parking options that don't have restrictions or time limits for added convenience.

Essential Gear for Covert Camping

Compact sleeping bags are essential for covert camping , allowing for easy concealment and mobility. A lightweight camping stove is crucial for cooking meals without drawing attention to your location. Car window shades provide privacy and help block out light for a discreet setup. A portable camping toilet is essential for bathroom needs while maintaining stealth. LED lanterns or headlamps offer convenient lighting without giving away your location.

Choosing the right gear is vital for a successful covert camping experience. These essentials ensure that you can stay hidden while still enjoying the comforts of camping. The items listed above are designed to help you blend into your surroundings seamlessly, making your adventure both safe and enjoyable.

Safety Measures for Stealth Camping

When engaging in stealth camping, it's crucial to prioritize our safety by implementing nighttime security precautions and strategies that keep us out of sight.

By minimizing visibility and staying under the radar, we can enhance our camping experience and reduce the risk of unwanted attention.

Taking these precautions allows us to enjoy our small car camping adventures with peace of mind .

Nighttime Security Precautions

Implementing nighttime security precautions is crucial for ensuring safety while stealth camping, particularly in secluded areas. While enjoying the freedom of finding free camping spots, it's essential to take measures to stay hidden and secure.

Here are three key nighttime security precautions to consider:

• Use motion-sensor lights: Install them around your vehicle to deter unwanted attention during the night.
• Keep doors locked: Maintain security by locking your car doors and rolling up windows while sleeping.
• Portable door alarm: Consider using one to alert you of any unauthorized entry into your vehicle.

These precautions can help you feel safer and more secure during your stealth camping adventures.

Minimal Visibility Strategies

For enhanced safety during stealth camping excursions, strategically positioning your vehicle in areas with natural cover such as trees or bushes can help minimize visibility and maintain a low profile . Additionally, using window covers or tinted windows can obscure the view into the car, adding an extra layer of stealth. Avoiding well-lit areas and places with high foot traffic is crucial to reduce the chances of being noticed. Keeping interior lights off and noise levels down also aids in staying under the radar. Opt for inconspicuous locations away from homes, businesses, or areas frequented by people for added stealth. Implementing these minimal visibility strategies enhances your overall safety and security while engaging in car camping adventures.

Hygiene Solutions on the Go

Maintaining cleanliness on the go while camping involves essential hygiene solutions and products to ensure comfort and hygiene standards are met. When embarking on a stealth camping adventure, it's crucial to have the right tools at hand. Here are three must-have hygiene solutions for your covert outdoor escapades:

• Portable Camping Toilets : Investing in a portable camping toilet can make all the difference when nature calls in the middle of the night. These compact and discreet options provide a convenient and hygienic way to answer the call of nature while blending in with your surroundings.
• Biodegradable Wet Wipes and Hand Sanitizer : Quick and efficient cleaning is essential when resources are limited. Biodegradable wet wipes and hand sanitizer offer a convenient way to freshen up and maintain hygiene standards without access to traditional facilities.
• Compact Hygiene Kits : Compact hygiene kits containing essentials like a toothbrush, toothpaste, and soap are perfect for staying fresh on the go. These kits are lightweight, easy to pack, and ensure you can maintain your hygiene routines even in the great outdoors.

Blending in With Your Surroundings

Blending seamlessly with the natural surroundings enhances the stealth camping experience, ensuring a discreet and harmonious presence in the wilderness. When selecting camping spots, opt for areas that offer natural camouflage , such as dense forests or areas with thick vegetation.

Earth-toned or dark-colored camping gear helps maintain a low profile , making it less likely to attract unwanted attention. Parking in secluded areas away from public view is crucial for staying unnoticed while stealth camping. Utilize the surrounding terrain features like trees and bushes to conceal your campsite effectively.

Keep noise and light to a minimum to avoid drawing attention to your location. By adapting your camping setup to match the environment, you can maximize your stealth and blend in with nature seamlessly. Being mindful of your surroundings and taking steps to remain inconspicuous will contribute to a successful and covert camping experience.

Navigating Legalities and Regulations

As we navigate the realm of small car camping, understanding and adhering to local laws and regulations regarding overnight stays is paramount to a successful and lawful experience. When it comes to stealth camping in small cars, finding the right locations and staying compliant with the rules can make all the difference.

Here are three essential tips for navigating the legalities and regulations of small car camping:

• Research Designated Areas : Look for state parks or designated camping sites that permit overnight stays in small cars. These areas often have clear guidelines and facilities tailored for car campers.
• Check Permit Requirements : Be aware of any permit requirements or restrictions, especially when camping in urban areas. Some cities may have specific regulations regarding sleeping in vehicles.
• Stay Informed : Keep up to date with any recent changes in regulations or enforcement related to small car stealth camping. Being informed can help you avoid legal issues and ensure a smooth camping experience.

Boondocking involves camping without amenities, emphasizing self-reliance in remote areas. Stealth camping, on the other hand, focuses on staying hidden in any location to avoid detection. Both prioritize low impact and respect for surroundings.

For stealth camping, we recommend compact vehicles like vans or SUVs with tinted windows for discretion. These vehicles offer flexibility and comfort while blending into various environments. Research different models for the best fit.

Are Stealth Campers Illegal?

Stealth campers may toe the line of legality. Research local laws to ensure compliance. Urban areas often restrict overnight parking. Use designated sites or gain permission for a smooth experience. Respect private property boundaries.

What Is the Best Color for Stealth Camping?

For stealth camping, the best color is dark like black, dark gray, or dark green. These colors help blend in with surroundings, keeping us inconspicuous. Bright colors stand out, making our spot noticeable. Choose wisely for a covert adventure.

As we embark on our stealth small car camping adventure , we find ourselves navigating through the night with a sense of excitement and anticipation.

With the right vehicle, gear, and strategies in place, we're prepared to blend in seamlessly with our surroundings and enjoy a covert camping experience .

By staying safe, maintaining hygiene, and being mindful of legalities, we can fully immerse ourselves in the thrill of stealth camping.

Join us on this covert journey and discover the hidden gems that await.

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Stealth Camping 101 Tips for Urban Camping With or Without a Stealth Camper

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What is stealth camping? Stealth camping refers to camping in an urban environment in a discreet manner. These stealth campers are often found on public streets, parking lots, and other accessible spaces. The allure of stealth camping comes from its ability to blend in with everyday environments, allowing for the convenience of camping almost anywhere it is legal to park.

When it comes to camping, one question that comes up frequently is: Do you really need a stealth camper? The short answer is: not necessarily. However, the answer isn’t as simple as that. It depends largely on your specific needs and circumstances.

Stealth Camping

In the video above, I share our experiences with stealth camping along with tips for free camping in urban enviornements. Be sure to check out the comment section of the video for stealth camping experiences from fellow campers.

“The Knock”

A main concern leading people to consider a stealth camper is the fear of “the knock” in the middle of the night. This refers to being asked to move your camper or vehicle, often by law enforcement or security. In eight years of RV travel, with six and a half of those years living full-time on the road, the number these incidents we’ve encountered has been minimal and all related to camping at Walmart . So the fear of the midnight knock might be more intimidating than the reality itself.

Urban Camping

Before we delve into the intricacies of stealth camping, it’s essential to distinguish between the two primary ways it’s practiced. In this post, I will focus on urban stealth camping for scenarios where you’re traveling to a town or city to visit friends and family or see the sights. For these cases, you don’t necessarily need a stealth camper to enjoy urban camping.

However, certain people may find a stealth camper indispensable. This is typically true for those using their camper as a permanent home within a city or for individuals who need to stay under the radar due to specific circumstances or regulations.

Examples that require a stealth camper include employees camping in their workplace’s parking lot or students living in a university parking lot to save on housing costs.

In Walden on Wheels: On the Open Road From Debt to Freedom by Ken Ilgunas , the author tells the story of living in a van on campus parking lots while attending school in order to save money. 

Another case could be homeowners living under HOA (homeowners association) regulations that restrict visible campers from being parked on their property. In this case, the homeowner would need a stealthy camper van, for example, that looks more like a passenger van than a camper van.

Tips for Urban Camping

It’s a common misconception that only stealth campers can park overnight in an urban environment. This belief often discourages those with non-stealth campers from venturing into city settings. However, from experience with various campers — a 30-foot Class A RV towing a Jeep Wrangler , several Class B camper vans , and a lightweight flatbed truck camper , none of which could be considered stealthy — we’ve managed to enjoy urban camping throughout the United States without any issues aside from three times at Walmarts.

Here are our experience based tips on how you can enjoy urban stealth camping: 

1. Use common sense and your judgment. Common sense and good judgment form the foundation of urban camping. If a location seems safe and appropriate for parking, it probably is – just ensure to check for any prohibitive signs or rules.

2. Know the regulations. It’s important to understand the regulations of the area in which you plan to park. This includes restrictions on oversized vehicles, or parking regulations that restrict parking during certain hours.

3. Be considerate of your environment. When camping in an urban setting, it’s crucial to be respectful of the surrounding environment. This means not littering, keeping noise levels down, and avoiding any activities that might attract unnecessary attention.

4. Think about your parking spot. It’s beneficial to be strategic about where you park. For example, parking along a wall on a side street can be less intrusive than parking directly in front of someone’s house.

5. Ask for permission. When planning to park in a business’s parking lot, we always recommend asking permission from the management. This can prevent any potential issues and ensure that you are abiding by the property’s rules. It’s also good to ask when they would like you to leave the following day. Check out our guide on boondocking which includes businesses that allow overnight RV parking.

6. Use your network. Leveraging your personal network can provide valuable insights and recommendations about where to park in unfamiliar cities or towns. We’ve gotten many good recommendations from friends about where to park and what to avoid in new areas. 

7. Have a backup plan. It’s always a good idea to have a contingency plan in place in case you’re asked to move your vehicle in the middle of the night.

8. Consider pets. If you travel with pets , make sure to let them out in a suitable location before you arrive at your parking spot for the night so you don’t have to go in and out of the camper after arrival. The more you can avoid drawing attention by frequently entering and exiting your camper, the less likely you are to get the knock.

9. Check with friends / family on HOAs. If you’re visiting friends or family who live in an HOA, it’s good to ask about their regulations concerning overnight RV parking in advance. If they say it’s not allowed, send them a photo of your camper and have them ask the HOA for permission for you to park while you’re there. Since our Class B camper van only takes up one parking spot, HOAs have given us permission to stay for a night or two.

10. Familiarize yourself with the process. The more you practice urban camping, the more comfortable you’ll get. Over time, you’ll be able to easily spot suitable parking locations and anticipate potential issues.

11. Learn from others. Check out other YouTubers or bloggers who share tips and experiences about urban camping. Their insights can help you navigate your own experiences.

What to do if you get the knock

As I mentioned earlier, we’ve gotten the knock three times, all at Walmart. The first time, the regulations had changed at one we’d stayed at previously and we were asked to leave by security shortly after we arrived. The second time, we’d been given permission to stay however that evening another camper arrived and dumped their garbage all over the parking lot and management told all campers they had to leave or risk being towed. Finally, we were given permission and had stayed the night. The next afternoon, we were told we needed to leave as they wanted RVers to leave in the morning. 

If you get the knock, the first thing to do is to stay calm, put on clothes if needed and then look out of the window. You never know who might be knocking so don’t open the door without verifying who’s there. If the person outside isn’t a police officer, you may want to speak to them from inside the van through an open window. From there, just talk to the person and find out what the issue is. If you need to move, consider your backup plan (if you have one) and you can even ask the person if they have any suggestions given how late it might be. After you’ve moved, think about what it was that caused the person to knock and then look at ways to avoid it in the future. If you’ve gotten the knock, leave us a comment and tell us about what happened. 

In conclusion, whether or not you need a stealth camper for urban camping depends on your unique circumstances. For the majority of leisure travelers, a non-stealth camper can work for camping in urban environments. However, if you’re using the camper as a primary residence in a city or under specific regulations, a stealth camper may be a necessity. Regardless of your choice, it’s important to respect local regulations and strive to be a courteous member of the community wherever you park.

Share your experiences with stealth camping by leaving a comment below.

New to the RV life? Check out our Guide on RVing for Beginners

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1 thought on “stealth camping 101 tips for urban camping with or without a stealth camper”.

Hi We are musicians and park in Walmart’s. In August we got our first knock in 10 years, and the person was a tow truck service hired by Walmart (lights flashing and all). They did not tell us to leave, but rather to move to a lot to the side of the building. We did and there was an RV parked there. We were surprised and alarmed, and had trouble falling to sleep again (argh), which made us tired for our morning music show. Because of the housing crisis there are more people living in vehicles. Some of these people are behaving badly and the stores are less patient. People are setting up their barbeques and chairs, playing loud music, and using the bushes as toilets, etc. So, Everyone, please try to be super-polite, make your vehicle self-contained (able to be in it for a full 24 hours or more), and use the store for the rest room. In fact I always purchase things there even if just things for the future. That is the whole point of Walmart offering their lot. Thank you to The Russo’s for your informative and enjoyable media postings! Best wishes =)

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5 Best Stealth Camper Vans for Living Off-Grid

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A stealth camper van for off-grid living is an amazing way to disconnect and be self-sufficient. But just what is a stealth camper van? And what’s the best choice for one?

A stealth camper van is a Class B motorhome designed to look like a normal cargo van or other work vehicles. You can camp almost anywhere because people don’t suspect them to be camper vans. You can make a self-contained camper van for off-grid living with components like a solar power system, a freshwater tank, and other features. 

So which van should you use for your stealth camper van for off-grid living ? Let’s take a look at the 5 best stealth vans and everything you’ll need to know to live off the grid. 

Here are the five best stealth camper vans for living off-grid or “stealth camping”.

1. Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

• Models: 1500, 2500, 3500, 3500XD, 4500 
• Length: 19.46 ft. – 24.17 ft.
• Engine: 2.0L I4 turbo-gas/ 2.0L I4 turbo-diesel/ 3.6L V6 turbo-diesel
• Fuel: 22 gal gas/ 24.5 gal diesel
• Payload: 3,682 lbs – 6,735 lbs
• Cargo Space: 319 cu ft. – 533 cu. ft.

The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter has long been a gold standard for camper vans – and for a good reason. It sports great gas mileage, gas or diesel engine options, an optional 4×4 drive train, and is a highly reliable van.

RVBlogger News Tip: Per a Mercedes-Benz announcement, the 2023 Sprinter will no longer have the V6 engine option . Instead, you can choose between three different 4-cylinder engines. A gasser and two diesels. One of the diesel engines will have a single turbo, and the other will have dual turbos to increase horsepower and torque. Regardless of the engine, each will now come with a nine-speed transmission (adding 2 more gears) and will be fully all-wheel-drive.  

The Mercedes Sprinter has become one of the best-selling cargo vans in the U.S. It’s used for personal, commercial, and industrial applications. People use it for mobile offices, shuttles, delivery vans, and mobile construction tool sheds, to name a few.

In fact, once you know to look for them, you’ll see Sprinters everywhere. They likely won’t think twice when someone sees your Sprinter stealth camper van. You’ll be hiding in plain sight with these popular camper vans.

2. Dodge Ram ProMaster

• Models: 1500, 2500, 3500
• Length: 16.28 ft. – 20.88 ft
• Engine: 3.6L V6 gas engine
• Fuel: 24 gal 
• Payload: 3,760 lbs – 4,680 lbs
• Cargo Space: 304 cu. ft. – 463 cu. ft.  

Dodge Ram ProMaster is the name used in the US and Canada for the Fiat Ducato. It’s not totally French since the North American ProMaster uses a Chrysler chassis, engine, transmission, and other components. There are a lot of great features that make it a great camper van for off-grid living. 

For one, the ProMaster is the only cargo van that comes standard with front-wheel drive. This has several advantages, including:

• FWD can provide more traction, especially going up hills or in slippery conditions
• This drivetrain style usually has fewer components than other drivetrains, creating a lighter vehicle
• FWD is typically cheaper to maintain

When Mercedes separated from Chrysler in 2007, the American engineers learned a lot from their German counterparts. Fiat’s influence has also made the ProMaster a great van for DIY stealth camper van builds. You’ll find that the frame, floor, and roof construction are specifically designed to hold the structural supports for the various features you want to add to your van build.

3. Ford Transit

• Models: T-150, T-250, T-350, T-350HD DRW
• Length: 18.33 ft – 22 ft.
• Engine: 3.5L PFDI V6 PFDI gas/ 3.5L V6 EcoBoost gas/ 2.0L I4 turbo-diesel (pre-2021)
• Fuel: 25 gal standard, 31 gal optional 
• Payload: 3,060 lbs – 5,110 lbs
• Cargo Space: 246.7 cu. ft. – 487.3 cu. ft.

The Ford Transit is an increasingly popular option as a stealth camper van for off-grid living. 

The Transit is a reliable, high-quality van with many great features. Plus, it has the highest roof available in a cargo van, so it’s a great option if you need extra headroom. Because it’s a Ford, you’ll never have a problem with parts, maintenance, or repairs. 

The Transit is also available with AWD, which is great if you want to do some lighter off-roading. As of 2021, Ford discontinued the 2-liter diesel engine, but you can still find used versions. 

If you look at the traditional RV Industry, you’ll notice that the Class B plus and compact Class C motorhomes use the Ford Transit for heavier models. This should raise a green flag in your mind telling you that the Transit does well with a heavier camper van build. If you plan to load your stealth camper van up with every possible feature, this van may be what you want.

4. Chevrolet Express/GMC Savana

• Models: 2500, 3500
• Length: 18.6 ft. – 20.3 ft.
• Engine: 4.3L V6 gas/ 6.6L V8 gas/ 2.8L I4 Duramax turbo-diesel
• Fuel: 31 gal
• Payload: 2,715lbs – 3,673 lbs
• Space: 218.5 cu. ft. – 255.5 cu. ft.

Although they have different names, the Chevrolet Express and the GMC Savana are the same van. Whatever badge you have on the front, it’s a great choice for a stealth camper van for off-grid living. 

Older Chevrolet Express or GMC Savana vans can be found at great prices. They’re regarded as highly reliable and durable. Plus, parts and maintenance are fairly affordable. Because they’re still enough of them on the road, they won’t draw much attention. They look more like a work vehicle, so they don’t warrant a second look.

The Express/Savana has an American-style body with a lower roof but wider interior space. Unless you install an aftermarket pop-top, you’ll eventually get used to moving around in the “crouching walk” technique. But those few extra inches of width can give you a longer bed, a wider center aisle, and other benefits the European-style vans don’t have. Look what Fern did with her 2006 Chevy Express in the Movie Nomadland .

5. Medium Duty Box Truck

When you think of a stealth camper, you probably think of a full-size cargo van. But have you ever considered a box truck camper ?

Also known as box vans, these are chassis cab trucks (think a pickup without the bed). They have a large rectangular storage area that’s usually separate from the cab. A common example is moving trucks, like those used by UHaul and Penske. Frequently, these are built on the same chassis as popular cargo vans, such as the Ford E-Series chassis. 

Box trucks provide a lot of room, and their straight walls and barebones construction make them easy to convert into a camper. They can also carry an average of 10,000 pounds, so the added weight of your van build won’t be much of an issue. In most states, a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is for vehicles over 26,000 pounds and/or used for commercial reasons.

Because they’re not nearly as common as cargo van conversions, box truck conversions have an easy time blending into the background. Very few people see a box truck and suspect there’s anyone living inside.

• Brands: Chevy, Ford, Freightliner, GMC, Hino, International, Isuzu, Kenworth, Mack, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Peterbilt, Dodge Ram, and Western Star
• Length: typically 10 to 26 feet
• Engine: Manufacturer’s brand or Cummins
• Fuel: typically 20 to 31+ gallons
• Payload: Average capacity is 10,000 lbs.
• Cargo Space: Average of 1,700 cu. ft.

RELATED READING :

1. 20 best van conversion companies by region 2. 5 most fuel efficient campervans 3. 10 best vans for your camper van conversion 4. how much does van life cost per month 5. 25 must-have campervan accessories, 4 features most important camper van for living off-grid.

You’ll need some specific things if you want to build a camper van for off-grid living.

1. Source of Electricity

You’ll need electricity to run lights, a refrigerator , and electronic devices. The simplest way to get electricity is with a gas generator. 

Gas generators can provide power on-demand using propane or gasoline. But they have a lot of downsides. They’re loud, heavy, need proper ventilation, and require you to have a sufficient supply of fuel on hand. 

The other option is solar power . This is a lot more involved and can have a high start-up cost. You’ll need to install solar panels, a decent-sized battery bank, and plenty of other equipment to run the whole system. 

There are many upsides if you have the patience, research skills, good with your hands, and have a budget for at least a small solar system kit. Once installed, a solar system is quiet, low maintenance, and creates eco-friendly power. Compared to other power generation sources, solar is slow and only keeps your batteries charged. All of the electronics run off the house batteries.

If you want solar power without the hassle of installation, you can also try a solar generator . These are basically all the parts of a solar system, excluding the panel, in one relatively small package. You have to connect a solar panel or alternative power source, charge the generator, and run everything off of the generator itself. 

2. Large Water Tank

You need water to live, so you’ll want to make sure you have enough for off-grid living. While there are methods that let you collect your own water supply, such as rain barrels, these aren’t really feasible for most van lifers. 

Instead, you’ll need to bring your water supply with you, and you’ll need plenty of it. Having the largest freshwater tank possible and/or even supplementing with extra tanks is a good idea if you want to go off-grid. 

RV water tanks come in many different shapes and sizes. Companies even make water tanks that fit around your camper van’s wheel wells. RV freshwater tanks that fit in stealth camper vans for off-grid living generally have a rectangular shape, so it’s easy to build cabinetry around them.

3. Places to Store & Prepare Food

Everyone’s gotta eat! So you’ll need to consider where you’ll store food and how you’ll prepare it. 

You’ll need an RV refrigerator if you want to store anything besides canned goods and other nonperishables. This can be powered off your camper van’s house batteries, a generator, or propane.

You can use either traditional door RV refrigerators or space-saving chest-style versions. They come in 2-way, 3-way, all-electric, or 12v DC powered. Like RV freshwater tanks, RV fridges can be built around. Need additional surface space, the top of a chest-style fridge on sliders makes a good RV workspace. 

You’ll also need to cook your food. You can always use a campfire to cook in remote locations, but propane and electric stoves are good options. If you use one of these, make sure to account for the LP or electric use. 

4. Waste Management and Hygiene

You’ll need to keep clean as well as store and dispose of waste while off-grid. 

An easy way to keep clean is a portable camping shower. These use a water bag or pump placed in a bucket of water. A shower head gives you enough water for a quick soap-and-rinse experience. Portable camping showers consume little to no electricity. Depending on where you are off-grid, you might need to heat the water on your stove, or some models use solar heat.

Managing your waste is also another consideration. If your camper has a toilet that empties into a black water tank or cassette, you’ll need to know how long you can stay off-grid before finding an RV dump station. In this case, it helps to plan your off-grid RV adventures to include cycling the water holding tanks.

However, waste disposal is much easier if you have a composting toilet . Composting toilets must be dumped at the proper compost dumping locations. The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) instructions on digging a hole are for single use only. When you’re in the middle of nowhere and can’t get to a toilet in time. Paying a fine for illegal dumping isn’t a campfire story you want to share.

If you’re in an urban or suburban area, you can also use gyms for bathing facilities. Rest areas and public parks have trash cans and restroom facilities too. 

What Qualifies as Off the Grid?

What qualifies as “off the grid”? Off-grid living generally refers to living without a connection to public or campground utilities, but it can have slightly different meanings for different people.

“off the grid” refers to the electrical grid in the strictest sense. Living off the grid means you aren’t taking any electricity from municipal power sources. The only power you use is generated by the equipment on your RV.

There are some that go a step further by forgoing all public utilities such as water, gas, and sewer utilities. This could include going without communication services such as telephone and internet. 

Some take living off-grid to the extreme by giving up any utility services. If they can’t carry it with them, they don’t need it. You’ll see this primitive living style of camping in the #TentLife, basic teardrop campers, or some stealth camper vans for living off-grid without plumbing or electrical features. Those with basic van conversions where the third-row bench converts into a bed may live the primitive RV lifestyle.

Of course, those that choose the #VanLife want some modern technology. For most van lifers, off-grid living means having the choice of disconnecting from the world from time to time. 

How Long Can You Live Off-Grid in a Campervan?

How long you can live off the grid in your van depends on various factors. 

For one, how long can your supply of food and water last? How long will that fuel supply last if you’re using a gas generator or anything else requiring fuel?

These will be major deciding factors on how long you can stay off-grid. The simplest answer to “how long can I stay off the grid” is: “until your food, water, and fuel runs out.” For most people, this will be just a week. Maybe two weeks with careful planning, rationing, and large holding tanks.

However, if you’re especially self-sufficient, you may be able to stay off-grid for a month or more. You can keep yourself going by making supply runs to dump stations, grocery stores, fuel stations, and other places throughout your stealth camper van off-grid adventures. Use apps to find the best places to minimize the pit stop times and costs to keep you going.

Maybe even spending a night at a small campground can be advantageous for cycling your tanks, getting a real shower, and giving your generators a break by using shore power. Think about it; a whole night of air conditioning, your favorite movie, a clean body, and pizza delivery. During a weeknight with a camping club discount program, it could be your “glamper” night!

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City Living in a Stealth Camper Van

In a city, there are a few practices you should follow to keep yourself from getting in any trouble for stealth camping .

One of the biggest things is keeping light and noise to a minimum. Avoid keeping your lights on if you can, and consider using red or purple LED lights that aren’t as bright. Blacking out any windows will keep light from showing and provide privacy.

You should also avoid making too much noise. Avoid loud music or TV (consider using headphones) and talk with your best indoor voice. 

Another important thing is to never stay in the same place two nights in a row. Make sure to vary your spot each night and avoid repeating spots. You should also try to arrive after dark and leave early in the morning to reduce the chances of somebody noticing you. 

Good places to park for the night include parking lots in public parks and parking lots at big box stores like Walmart. In fact, at Walmarts and some other stores, you don’t even need to be stealthy.

You’ll also want to learn about the city or county laws regarding sleeping in your vehicle at night. Some of them are cracking down on crime and homelessness within their borders. You may want to avoid these areas and choose the next town over. Also, keep your camper van in good shape. The better its appearance, the less likely the police will come knocking.

A Stealth Camper Van for Off-Grid Living is a Great Way to Get Away From it All

A stealth camper van for off-grid living has a lot of perks. With the self-sufficiency they give you, you can truly unplug and get away from it all. Plus, because a stealth camper looks just like normal cargo vans, you can camp even in big cities. 

To live off the grid, you’ll want a way to generate electricity, sufficient water storage, and a way to store and prepare your food. Unless you have a composting toilet, you’ll want the biggest waste tank possible. 

Properly outfitted, your stealth camper van for off-grid living will give you freedom and independence that’s hard to beat. Now you have all the knowledge you need to pick the right van for you!

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2. 5 best roof racks for van life, 3. best air conditioners for a camper van, 4. best campervan window covers for summer and winter, 5. best campervan rental companies: us and canada, about the author:.

Jennifer and Kendall are avid RVers and part-time van lifers who share their years of experience both as full-time RVers and nomads through writing.

Jenn and Kendall have explored Canada, the USA, and Mexico while RVing and living full-time in all 3 countries.

They have been fortunate to work not only as part of the RVBlogger team but also with RVLife, DIY RV, Camper Report, RV Magazine, Rootless Living, Vanlifers, and more.

They have also shared their RV experience through DashboardDrifters.com and are the founders of RVSpotDrop, a web service for full-time RVers.

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Adventure Tour: Winter Off-Roading in a Soviet Military Van & Caving

• All activities
• Pickup and drop-off from designated meeting points
• Use of helmet
• Private tour
• Round-trip private transfer
• Transport by private vehicle
• Hotel pickup and drop-off (if option not selected)
• Domodedovskaya, Moscow, Russia, 115583 Wait me in the subway near the red-blue information desk
• We can pick you up from any metro or any place at the SOUTH part of Moscw. Theoretically, we can pick you up from the hotel, but it is not recommended because of the traffic jams. If you need it, please, write us to discuss details.
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Not recommended for travelers with back problems
• No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
• Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
• This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• You'll start at Domodedovskaya Or, you can also get picked up See departure details
• Pass by Moscow Metro
• 1 HookahPlace Domodedovo Stop: 6 hours We will drive for 40 minutes to the forest near the Domodedovo town. Then we will be off-roading for 3-5 hours here with taking a break for a BBQ. Then we will drive for 30 minutes to get to the wild catacombs near Novlenskoe town. Read more
• You'll return to the starting point

• Alan B 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Sensational guide We booked Tony from Australia and we could not have had a better guide. Extremely knowledgeable about Moscow, took us to local places, such as the vodka bars, very flexible in arrangements. Highly recommended. Read more Written May 26, 2020
• geertk658 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Very interesting days in Mosow We had two day-trips with Tony. The first day we did a walking and metro-tour of Moscow, the second day we went to Sergiev Posad and a datcha belonging to friends of Tony. Both days were great. We learned a lot about local life and saw places we would never have found if we had done everything by ourselves. Tony is very talkative, has a good sense of humour and speaks excellent English. We have planned to go back to Moscow in the future and for sure we will use Tony's service again then. Read more Written January 18, 2020
• Jacky H 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Another view of Moscow Super interesting from 1st minute until last. We have dicovered a lot of places of hidden Moscow. Our guide was exceptional. Effectively Moscow was completely different during soviet period. That we knew before.... But so deeply different it was not possible to imagine before this tour. Also the bar to drink shot(s) of vodka. Looking like 30 years ago. A great and unforgettable discovery. Read more Written January 3, 2020
• LondonE7 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Private six day Golden Ring tour and further north into Russian wilderness I booked Tony for the six day Golden Ring tour (there is not an option in the tour selections above). Tony was very easy to correspond with beforehand and arranging the visa documents which was a pain from my first Russia trip and has very good English. It met Tony in Moscow after arriving from Kazan. We had the six days penciled in and improvised the trip as we went along depending on interest. At Tony's suggestion we went further north of the traditional Golden Ring at Kostroma into the frontier towns of Galich and Soligalich, which are time capsules and normal road access ends. We then detoured into the wilderness from Chukhloma to the Lesney Terem Astashovo Wood Palace hotel which is a museum hotel. We then hiked thru logging mud trails and crossing a river to get to a second run down Wood Palace where a local still lives and was happy to show us around. There are videos of all our experiences on my youtube channel [departures1]. After rejoining the Golden Ring route from Yaroslavl we finished in Moscow and did a driving tour of the Soviet architecture. I really enjoyed the six day trip and this is the type of adventure if you want something more original and authentic. We spent time visiting abandoned Churches and inside derelict homes that other guides may not take you to so you can be as creative as you like with Tony. We also visited Mosques in northern Russia which I would not have expected. I would highly recommend touring with Tony and planning a great adventure together. Read more Written December 4, 2019
• SoniWarnaWarni 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles An incredible day with Tony! Do you want to have an extraordinary experience in Russia or Moscow? I highly recommend Tony with his amazing UAZ! Tony is super friendly, funny & smart. We really enjoyed travelling one day in forest with delicious bbq forest near the river. It’s a new experience for us and priceless! Keep do your best man! Read more Written November 8, 2019
• Mystery_Play 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Excellent service We wanted to do the golden ring and hence contacted tony, right from the beginning he was very responsive through wats app and catered to all our needs. I would really appreciate his patience as we kept changing our plan every other day but he always catered and adjusted to our plans. He is informative and very friendly, thank you Tony... Read more Written November 7, 2019
• Alan B 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great guide in Moscow I was touch with Tony almost 12 months before going to Moscow and could not rate his service high enough. He was readily available on email or skype, and if not responded very quickly. He is flexible, knowledgeable and very customer focused. We did not finalise anything until we met in the hotel lobby in Moscow and planned our trip for the day. What we enjoyed was not only did we do the touristy things but Tony took us to places, vodka cafes, that we would not have experienced with other guides or groups. He made getting around the Metro easier and allowed us to enjoy the experience. Tony also saved us money by arranging transport to the station when we were leaving Moscow. I would highly reccommend Tony if you are wanted a great Moscow experience. Read more Written November 1, 2019
• GARYE3466 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles TRANS SIBERIAN RAILROAD My wife and I went from BEIJING TO MOSCOW BY RAIL. WE WENT THROUGH CHINA, MONGOLIA AND RUSSIA. A very interesting and informative trip.. After hearing about how bad Siberia was our entire lives it was time to see for ourselves. . Siberia is vast and the eastern part is slightly populated. Seeing the cultures involved in each country we very interesting. Discovery Russia put the trip together and did a very good job. We took five separate trains for seventeen days. We spent five nights on the train and the remaining nights in hotels in various cities along the way. All connections were done without error and we took day tours in several of the cities along the way. It is a unique, educational trip for all travelers to take.. Read more Written September 3, 2019
• 533lawrences 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Off the Beaten Path with Tony We had two great trips with Tony. I wanted to see a Russian Orthodox church in a village about 200 kilometers from Moscow. Tony set up the whole trip. We were able to attend Sunday Mass, got a tour of the church and the village from the priest, and were even invited to the priest’s home for lunch with his family!!!! It was a special day. Later that week we asked Tony to take us to the Food City Farmer’s Market in suburban Moscow. It was great fun to see all the food, trucks and people from all over Russia and former USSR states. We even had brunch in the Uzbekistan Cafe there. Tony is friendly, enthusiastic and knowledgeable about his itineraries. I highly recommend him. Read more Written July 11, 2019
• Dmarb 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great way to see the countryside! Our family of four (with two teens) took a private 2-day tour of Vladimir, Suzdal and Sergiev Posad with Tony and Irina. Touring with them is like visiting a local friend - they are so open and willing to share their thoughts, experiences and perspectives that it made the trip so much more interesting than with most tour guides. It was great to see the Golden Ring towns, but our absolute favorite (and where we stayed overnight) was Suzdal - so charming, we didn’t want to leave. Also recommend staying at Panorama Guest House in Suzdal where the caretaker really makes you feel at home! Day 1, Tony picked us up at the airport and drove to Vladimir, where he showed us the highlights and stopped for lunch. The drive is long, but Tony’s engaging conversation helped to pass the time while getting our first view outside Moscow. Tony was accommodating throughout the day and attentive to our needs. After lunch we continued on to Suzdal, where we spent the night. On day 2, Irina took over (as Tony had previously booked a tour for this day) seamlessly and we really enjoyed getting to know her! She could tell how much we liked Suzdal, so took us to some of her favorite places in town (including an old monastery) and tried to find a specific souvenir my daughter was looking for, asking around at different shops and stalls to locate it. We eventually had to leave Suzdal and drove to Sergiev Posad, during which we had more interesting conversations with Irina about her work, world politics, social issues, etc. After dinner, Irina took us back to our hotel in Moscow. Great experience, recommend it highly! Read more Written July 10, 2019
• RuadhanKing 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Walking tour of Central Moscow Terrific walking tour with Tony - very accommodating with a late change to the start time & on the tour with a sleepy 5 year old! Highly recommended for anyone interested in an introduction to Moscow. Read more Written May 27, 2019
• teraliya 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Real Russia for delicate Moscow girl I've been in three trips with these guys (Pereslavl-Zalessky, Staritsa / Torzhok, Ushakovskiye karyery in the Tula region) - it's rather addictive and makes you want more and more. And I was amazed, how beautiful our country is. We have so many cozy authentic towns. The folks are funny, jokes and humor will accompany you through the whole journey. You can also count on them in every unpredictable situation, problems will be solved and joyful spirit of a voyage won't be hurt. Even if you find yourself at night in the middle of nowhere, the overnight stay will be found. And in such a company it’s not scary to encounter even the harsh Russian service! I also liked that the planned sightseeing program was adjusted along the way, unexpected events naturally fitted into our day - we hung out at the reconstruction festival for half a day, spontaneously got into spacious caves in a beautiful river valley, unexpectedly found a local charismatic guide and learned a lot of interesting things about the provincial life and the difficulties of the Russian intelligentsia. Read more Written May 10, 2019
• saucemaz 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles LImestone Caves Trip I am still struggling to fully explain the unique experience of exploring the disused artificial caves of the bygone limestone mining era. It was not just one of the best things I have done in Moscow, but one of my overall favourite experiences ever!! The trip is not a straightforward amble round some caves, it is a descent into another world with Tony as a knowledgeable and enthusiastic guide who just bubbles over with passion for his subject. You will get some unique pictures and the experience wil stay with you. You will also hear some wild stores about the people that like to frequent the caves and as Tony said the phrase 'what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas' certainly applied deep below the surface at Domodedovo... Read more Written May 1, 2019
• avandevuurst 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great customised tour to get a in-depth understanding of Russians/Russia! End of February we were in Moscow and booked half a day with a guide, Tony. He was recommended to us and we were excited to learn more about Moscow and Russia from a local. Tony himself is well traveled, and speaks English in a clear accent, so he is easy to understand. He was punctual, the information he gave us was very detailed and up to date with current political developments. The tour was completely customised to our liking and it was the highlight of our stay in Moscow. He showed us some hidden gems that we would have not known otherwise, took us with the metro, recommended restaurants during our stay, and treated us to some local delicacies. Tony is a really great host with most importantly a great sense of humour! Because of his great personality and his broad knowledge I highly recommend booking him for a personalised tour. Read more Written March 25, 2019
• jlmoffice3008 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Private Customized Tour of Central Russia and Siberia....INCREDIBLE! This trip was a once in a lifetime experience. Tony was so accommodating throughout the entire planning process and for the duration of the trip. First class service. Tony organized a private trip for me which started in Moscow to Starista, Gorno-Altaysk, Belokuriha and Perm. The Gulag in Perm was incredible and Tony arranging a meeting with a Russian Hound expert was the icing on the cake of a perfect trip! Read more Written August 22, 2018

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Adventure Tour: Winter Off-Roading in a Soviet Military Van & Caving provided by Travel Real Russia

'Urban camping' in this Montana city has spiked 200% as priced-out locals move into cars and RVs

• People living in RVs or cars has surged in Bozeman, Montana, as housing costs have spiked.
• "Urban camping" has made the city's unhoused population more visible.
• Bozeman has the highest rents of any city in Montana, which is dealing with rising housing costs across the state.

So-called urban camping — when people live in RVs or vehicles parked on city streets — has risen rapidly in Bozeman, Montana , where locals are getting priced out by rising housing costs that are impacting many communities in the West .

Bozeman , located in the Rocky Mountains about 80 miles north of Yellowstone National Park, has a population of around 56,000 people. City officials say the number of Bozeman residents living in their RVs or cars spiked by 200% in two years, according to Montana PBS , which cited the city. Since 2020, the overall unhoused population has grown by 50%.

The rise in residents experiencing homelessness comes as housing costs have spiked. The median listing price for a home has gone from $669,000 at the start of 2020 to $1.2 million in 2024, according to city data . Meanwhile, rental costs in Gallatin County , where Bozeman is located, increased nearly 19% from 2019 to 2022 and continued to rise, leaving the county with the highest rents in the state .

"Homelessness has always been on the radar," Bozeman Mayor Terry Cunningham told PBS. "This — with urban camping, RVs, more cars — This is a recent phenomenon."

Though homelessness in the city has been rising since the pandemic, the increase in RVs and campers on city streets made the problem more visible, resulting in tensions over how to address it.

"First, these folks are our residents too," the city website says when discussing how it's addressing urban camping. "Many contribute to the workforce, send their kids to our local schools, and may not appear 'homeless' when you see them at their jobs and in the area."

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Bozeman residents are divided over whether the city has been too lenient in addressing the issue. In some locations, the city has installed dumpsters and trash cans near areas with campers to prevent litter and provide the unhoused with a place to dispose of their garbage.

A group of local business owners sued Bozeman last fall, arguing the city was not doing enough to enforce existing laws that would prevent people from camping on public streets. Business owners say they have dealt with theft, vandalism, and instances of harassment.

Residents have also complained that some people living in their cars are not doing so out of necessity but just to save money on rent, pointing to the presence of new cars and generators on the some of the campers, PBS reported.

Mayor Cunningham told the outlet part of the issue is that the city cannot easily determine why individuals are living in their cars or RVs, and people are not required to disclose that information.

In November, the city implemented an ordinance aimed at limiting urban camping. It prohibits camping at the same location for more than 30 days without getting an extension and also prohibits camping in front of certain places, like businesses and schools.

The result has been like playing musical chairs, people living in their campers told the Bozeman Daily Chronicle, which reported the city has hired three roles to enforce the ordinance.

"They're making it harder to be homeless. It's already hard enough," Steven Ankney, who lives in an RV with family, told the outlet. "I understand they don't want us on the street, but it's going to happen until they get livable places for us, or affordable houses for us, or places that we can live."

The city says it is working on bringing more affordable housing to Bozeman and is working with the nonprofit Human Resource Development Council to build a 24/7 shelter.

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Put-in tours

Original tour agency in moscow and st petersburg..

Onboard a Soviet van!

Welcome to Russia!

We are Sergey and Simon, a Russian and a Frenchman, both  passionate about Moscow, Saint-Petersburg and classic cars. Together, we have created Put-in tours. Our goal is to help you experience Russian culture off the beaten path. Join us onboard our classic Soviet van and let’s get rolling!

In Moscow we offer you a city tour to discover most of the city in an original way as well as a night tour to admire the lights. Our pubcrawl is ideal to explore Moscow’s night-life and have fun. If you are craving to discover Russian culture, come impress your senses during our monastery diner or join our 100% Russian Banya Excursion . The latest will also bring you to Sergiyev Posad and it’s famous monastery!

For the most extreme travellers, our shooting tour will deliver your daily dose of adrenaline whereas our tank excursion will let you ride a real tank and shoot a bazooka.

We also offer help to receive your visa , safe and multilingual airport transfers , as well as organisation services for team-building events or bachelor parties .

All our excursions (but the monastery diner) happen onboard our Soviet military vans and can be covered by our  professionnal photographer or videographer.

In Saint Petersburg

We welcome you in Saint Petersburg onboard our Soviet van to discover the imperial city with our city tour and night tour .

Continue your discovery in style! The adrenaline lovers will like our shooting tour  which brings 3 Russian weapons to the tip of your trigger finger.

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At Put-in tours, we put you in our classic Soviet vans to go explore Moscow, Saint Petersburg and Russian culture off the beaten path. Discover our Moscow city guided tour, visit Moscow by night, join our banya & Sergiyev Posad excursion, visit and dine in one of Moscow's oldest monastery or even Luzhniki stadium, before you party on our famous pubcrawl! Original and atypical tours : Shoot AK47 and a bazooka after riding on a tank with our tank & bazooka excursion ! Extreme tours: Fly a fighter jet in Moscow onboard a L-29 or L-39 aircraft!

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Home Page › Our tours › Towns of the Golden Ring. Trips out of Moscow › Dacha Tour

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Explore Russian Summer Life: Visit Russian Dacha!

People from Northern countries soak up every bit of pleasure out of summertime. Its days are numbered, and we do our best to store up the sunshine for the long, cold months that make up the rest of the year. Russians are among those who take full advantage of the brief, hot weather.

At summer’s peak, many Russians don’t venture far. The reason is dachas , our country houses. August brings the harvest for our small garden plots, but a dacha is much more than just an economic benefit: it embodies a culture dating back to Communist times.

The dachas is a unique phenomenon in the life of anyone who lives in the boundless expanses of the Russian Federation. A small plot – just 0.15 acres – with a few currant bushes, apple trees and a vegetable patch, a little wooden house with no telephone or running water and a discreetly located outhouse. I’d love to how you mine.

How we’ll get there:

I believe that it’ll be fun to experience the Russian suburban train (electrichka), which is very popular in our country. Electrichka is inexpensive and it might even be faster than a car as it doesn’t depend on the traffic. Travelling by commuter train you’ll be able to see ordinary people and possibly talk with them. Sometimes trains offer you such “free entertainment” as listening to numerous vendors and musicians. But local trains might be crowded at certain times of the day so in some cases we’d recommend you to go with us by car.

What we’ll do:

We start the trip with the tour of Dmitrov , an ancient Russian town, founded in 1147 and called Moscow younger brother. It is located 1 hour drive out of Moscow.

Learning how to prepare a Russianlunch:

First you choose the right meat, then the right recipe for the marinade.The fire has to be started and allowed to burn down until it’s almost out, but still smouldering. If you catch it at that moment, then the meat will roast evenly and not burn.

Meanwhile, the fire keeps threatening to go out, compelling family and guests to furiously fan it with pieces of cardboard. We serve sashlik with baked potatoes, pickled vegetables and of course Russian vodka. Lunch is followed by traditional Russian tea drinking .

You’ll be so involved, you won’t even notice when it’s time to go back to the city.

The tour cost is 200 USD.

Tour price is for 2 people but I can accommodate up to 6 people in this tour, however the price will change.

Transportationis extra.

Tour duration: 8 hours

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