You’ve most likely heard of scattered camping (also known as dry camping or boondocking), but have you heard of stealth camping? It is not the same as scattered camping, but you may do both simultaneously, and you will likely do so most of the time.
Stealth camping is just camping while remaining hidden. You may be in an urban or rural area, in a tent or an RV, in a campsite, or someplace along the street. When it comes to stealth camping, your possibilities are nearly limitless.
That being said, “stealth camping” is usually used to characterize RVers looking for a secure, pleasant area to stay the night without paying an arm and a leg. Because of their size, huge Class A RVs aren’t the best choice for stealth camping, but Class B vans are ideal. Class B campers are significantly simpler to fly under the radar since they resemble a regular delivery van.
Is Stealth Camping Legal?
Stealth camping is legal; however, many people choose a less-than-legal way (which we do not suggest). Signs that state “No Overnight Parking” are important for RVers to notice. If you notice any indication indicating that you cannot park in a specific area, it is preferable to obey the law, unless you want an unwanted tap on your window at 2 a.m. Otherwise, there are several sites where an RV may be lawfully parked overnight.
You need to conduct some research to ensure that there are no limits in whatever city or municipality you find yourself in, as these variances might vary greatly.
When it comes to tent camping, the best suggestion is to become acquainted with BLM property and other dispersed choices. As long as you don’t remain for too long (usually longer than 14 days), you can lawfully camp any place on public property. Of course, you may stealth camp at a conventional campsite as well, but one of the only advantages is that other campers will refrain from engaging with you. That is unless you enter a “gray zone” where the lines of legality are blurred.
Stealth Camping Gear Essentials
When organizing a stealth camping trip, it is essential to recognize the importance of preparedness.
Setting up camp and sleeping in places where permission may or may not be given is known as stealth camping. The sly camper has no intention of causing trouble or breaching the law. While traveling through an area or admiring a local monument, campers want obscurity.
- Solar Generator: A solar generator combines solar panels with a power station that can convert solar energy into electricity and use a limitless supply of renewable energy.
- Sleeping Pad:Used to relax comfortably on the stealth camper van.
- Sleeping Bag:The most important aspect of stealth camping.
- Outdoor Grill:A grill or outdoor burner allows for outdoor cooking.
- Toiletries:These might come in handy while bathing or toileting in the wilderness.
- Spare Clothing:Keep warm and change.
- Light or Flashlight:A valuable tool for usage at night.
- Emergency Kit:A modest first aid kit is usually suggested while stealth camping.
Stealth Camping Tips
Not all travel days go as planned, and campgrounds can fill up quickly, making it difficult to find a parking area to sleep in. Furthermore, nighttime parking rules are becoming more stringent. This usually causes nomads to experiment with covert camping in various locales.
Where to Park for Stealth Camping
According to common wisdom, it is critical to shift your location regularly when stealth camping. The main goal is to avoid attracting unnecessary attention to oneself. Do not park in locations that are clearly posted “no overnight parking.” This is a regulation for clandestine camping. If you ignore these warning signs, you will receive the dreaded “knock” from the cops. There are various parking choices to think about:
- Neighbourhood: Choose a middle-class neighbourhood with a lot of parked cars.
- Hotel Parking Lot: It is simple to conceal stealth camping in hotel parking lots.
- Church Parking Lot: Some churches allow homeless people to sleep in their parking areas.
- 24/7 Restaurants: If you have earplugs and don’t mind the noise of car doors opening and closing, a 24-hour restaurant parking lot is a good spot for stealth camping.
- Hospital Parking Lot: A secure location for stealth camping.
- Truck Stops:Although noisy, truck stops are a safe and convenient location to stay.
One of the most important components of camping in a van is finding a secure place to park. One method for camping in a van while keeping undiscovered and secure is to choose a wise overnight parking spot.
Where to Bath in Stealth Camping
Every night before going to bed, you must find a public restroom to brush your teeth, wash your face, and relieve yourself. If you’re stealth camping, you can use a portable toilet or a pee cup, but you can also check out gyms, marinas, coffee shops, public libraries, truck stops, and campsites.
However, if you want extra services (such as a shower), we recommend stopping at a car repair. Bring your own shampoo, soap, and conditioner.
Just be considerate while stopping at truck stops, and keep in mind that truck drivers must stop numerous times during the night to stay awake!
Where to Cook in Stealth Camping
If you want to live in a car in a city for a long period of time, you must learn how to cook or prepare meals. Consider that you should only cook inside a ventilated vehicle. This might result in carbon monoxide poisoning.
Benefits of Stealth Camping
People who desire solitude, security, and a greater connection to nature will enjoy stealth camping. Because your major objective is to remain unnoticed, you’ll strive hard to limit any contact with other people and will adhere to Leave No Trace guidelines to the best of your abilities. After all, the smaller your environmental impact, the less probable it is that anybody will notice your presence. Aside from those broad advantages, there are a few specific factors that make stealth camping more appealing:
Spend the night near local attractions. Is there anywhere in particular you’d want to go? Instead of staying at a remote campsite, it might be significantly more convenient to spend the night on a local street (if you’re in an RV).
Reservations for campgrounds may be prohibitively expensive, especially if you have an RV that requires connections. Assuming you can survive without running water, power, or sewage, stealth camping can help you save money.
There’s nothing more practical, efficient, and hassle-free than stealth camping once you’ve discovered a legal area to spend the night. By definition, the entire process should be straightforward and tactical, with as few obstacles as possible.
Stealth camping allows you to spend time in places that the ordinary camper would never visit. It’s a wonderful way to explore your surroundings, hang out near local attractions, and experience the excitement of “sneaking around.”
Conclusion
Stealth camping in a camper van might feel like a game or a hardship. It depends heavily on your personality. You may avoid paying rent by living in a van, allowing you to spend more time exploring the city. If you remain watchful, the experience may be beneficial.
