Stealth overnight camping
Stealth Camping is the act of secretly camping in unestablished locations, with the goal of going undetected.
Cities offer unique experiences and campgrounds can be pricey. Stealth camping allows you to experience the city's energy while saving money on accommodations.
Minivans have the benefit of blending in well, so they already have that Urban Camouflage. But here are some additional things you can do to turn your minivan into a city chameleon.
Window coverings: Blackout curtains or covers are a must. Tinted windows help, but if a flashlight shines in, you’re busted. I cover my windshield and have a curtain behind the front seats, but I don’t cover the front driver and passenger windows. To me, this makes you look suspicious. Who covers those windows in a normal situation? No one, so don’t cover them if you are trying to be stealth.
Park strategically: Look for well-lit areas with decent foot traffic. Industrial zones or quiet neighborhoods near apartment buildings can also work well. I prefer hotel and hospital parking lots. You don’t look suspicious there with out of state plates. If the light or noise is bothersome where you are parked, wear a sleeping mask or use earplugs. You will also want a space that is relatively level.
Ditch the decals: Avoid decals or stickers that scream "camper van!” You want your van to look like a soccer mom van, not a nomadic travel van.
Don’t camp out: Contrary to the term Stealth Camping, you are not really camping. Afterall, you won’t be stealth if you look like you are camping! Don’t take out your camp chairs or other camping gear. If you need to cook inside your van while being stealth there are options. You can use a rice cooker or a rapid boil bottle to make something that just needs hot water added. You could also opt for something that doesn’t need cooking during the time you are stealth.
When living discreetly in the city, discretion is key. Once you've found your spot, remember, the essence of stealth camping is invisibility. You want to merge with your environment as if you were always meant to be there.
Here are some golden rules for city nights:
* Arrive late and leave early: Aim to park after dark and depart before dawn to minimize visibility. This is not always necessary but use your best judgment. Obviously, if it is too hot outside to close up your van, you are not going to be comfortable. I tend to park in an end space where I can leave a window open with my window screen up. It’s not obvious and since it faces away from where anyone would be walking, I stay stealth.
* Look for signs: No overnight camping is the same as no overnight parking. Don’t try to push the limits when you are trying to stay stealth.
* Tell someone your location: for safety purposes, it's best to inform someone of your location. If an emergency occurs someone will know your location.
* Minimize noise and light: Use headphones to avoid attracting noise attention. Also be mindful of any light from your phone or other devices. Even with your windows covered up, any light will find the slightest gap.
* Have a way to use the Bathroom in your van: Once you’re parked and set for the night, you don’t want to have to leave to use the bathroom. Portable, collapsible toilets are great for this.
* Above all, listen to your intuition. It’s the compass that steers you toward safety and away from unseen troubles. If a spot doesn’t feel right, trust that feeling.
City stealth camping is an exciting way to explore urban landscapes on a budget. By following these tips, you can transform your minivan into an urban nomad haven and experience the city in a whole new way.
