20 Safety tips for solo females doing van life in 2024

[@rebacrow5604]

You did a great thing when u did this video. I don’t camp but I sure took your advice as a ❤78 year old lady. Thank you

[@gloriouslifeonwheels3621]

Bo Reba, I am so glad to know you found this video valuable 😊

[@cathyphillips679]

When I am camped and have a campfire, I always put 2 chairs around the fire. I hang a men's flannel shirt on the back of one of the chairs as well as a coffee cup in the cup holder of the chair. I do travel with a dog as well.

[@gloriouslifeonwheels3621]

Great tips!

[@SurfingFLA]

Also, when standing outside, yell into the van, "Honey, what do you want for supper?"

[@willothewispl]

I have done this just leaving my apartment at times. Even coming into my apt, when I had a neighbor or neighbors that made me feel uncomfortable. I have picked up my phone and said ok I wilk see you in a minute. So they think someone is meeting me also.

[@bobbiegentilquore9496]

I’m not a van user , but I do enjoy videos. Your words are full of wisdom

[@gloriouslifeonwheels3621]

❤❤❤

[@soggynomadpress]

From my late Mom: If you are attacked &/or someone is trying to drag you someplace, yell FIRE. Many people will look away, not look at all, not wanting to get involved in situations. They may think it is a domestic or... However, everyone has a vested interest in their property and their bodies not burning up. When you yell FIRE people look! The more witnesses the better.

[@beautifuldreamer3991]

Absolutely!!!!!

[@sandrasandoval8111]

Absolutely agree with you. I have a few relatives in law enforcement, and they gave me that advice to Scream As Loud I Could the word FIRE. ... HELP OMG FIRE, FIRE, HELP FIRE .... HOPEFULLY SOMEONE WITH COURAGE AND A HEART WILL HELP OR CALL FOR HELP .

[@gloriouslifeonwheels3621]

Hopefully I'll never be in that situation but if I am I will remember that. Thanks

[@gloriouslifeonwheels3621]

Good advice.

[@bryanmathew2079]

i'~Think That's What They Said@Truck Driving SchooL

[@DenaInWyo]

I often think your "gut" is your subconscious picking up on something that you aren't consciously seeing right away. Always, always listen. Thanks for your tips!

[@jessies6502]

Talking about gut feelings. I lived in MT for many years, and had a favorite trail that I loved to day-hike. It was gorgeous, through some foothills, easy and beautiful. Until the day I went there, and had just started my hike, maybe 500 yds in. The feeling that came over me was horror-movie sinister, like nothing I'd ever felt before. I was actually startled; it was a beautiful, fresh morning, nothing appeared to be different than usual, but there was something. I immediately turned around and went back to my car, my head on a swivel the entire time. I didn't see anything, but I was sure glad when I got in my car and locked the door! To this day, I have no idea what it was, but I think I dodged some real trouble of some kind.

[@gloriouslifeonwheels3621]

You will never know but be assured you didn't get that feeling for nothing. Angels were speaking to you that day!! That is what I meant about not arguing with yourself because you don't see evidence to support your gut feeling. Just turn around and leave like you did!

[@willothewispl]

Absolutely I have been in that situation. I don’t think twice, just get away from there. Might have been nothing, but better safe than sorry.

[@LiseWrigley]

Spidy senses. 👍

[@LiseWrigley]

Might have been a cougar.

[@sherrylucynski8665]

Bigfoot

[@birdgirl2182]

Thank you for the tips in this video. You suggested ideas that I wouldn't have thought of, so I'm grateful!

[@MaryLaRue-k8e]

I've traveled alone a lot. My job had me driving lonely and sometimes dirt roads as much as two hours from home or office. I and 98% of my coworkers carried enhanced protection. Even before that, when my children were growing up I did the same. As an older lady and often driving hundreds of miles a day and boondocking at times I still carry EP plus a big dog. Even a small dog is a good alarm system and most bad people don't want anything to do with a potentially mean dog. They don't like the attention a barking dog causes either. A dog is a good consideration and gives company as you travel, too. Plus security for your vehicle while you are shopping. Keeping in contact with God and listening to the warnings He gives, that gut feeling, & others, too, is critical.

[@EffieG-ez9tf]

So what kind of EP did you carry?

[@JenniferBowen-ys3ti]

Yes and a dog will give its life for you. It's OK. The dog can give you time to get away. Don't go back for your dog until you know it's clear. We raised and trained attack dogs for families and pd. The dog serves a purpose and I think some can forget that.

[@stormdavies250]

Wow so many good ideas! This won’t sound like much but when I stay at rest areas I put on a podcast with a male host so people can hear a muffled male voice from inside the car.

[@gloriouslifeonwheels3621]

Any tip is helpful. Thank you

[@sheilahoness-dd9ws]

I have never let my gas tank go below 1/2 or1/4 something my father always told me as a young girl. Im 77now.

[@martna1]

Not a nomad but I never let mine get below 3/4. I'm 72.

[@maalikserebryakov]

@@martna1well that’s dumb, the extra fuel will weigh your car down. Never let it go above 80 and never let it go below 40

[@libbygardner3021]

We used to do that for winter safety in MN, and I’m religious about it now.

[@sjordan7085]

Still a young woman!

[@moondancer334]

@@maalikserebryakov Weigh your car down? How much do you think a few more gallons of gas weigh?

[@LittleMissPaisley59]

Lock your doors as soon as you get into your vehicle.

[@carolkokx9638]

Great advice

[@kimberlyc84]

Also get in the habit of locking them when you put it in park. I hadn't realized my doors auto unlock when I put it in park. Why not just leave it so I can unlock it when I AM ready, but that's the way cars are now, I guess🤷‍♀️

[@EffieG-ez9tf]

@@kimberlyc84 Most cars operate with computers now, so maybe your local dealership can reprogram the door locks to just stay locked when you put the car in Park. Just an idea…. Also, try Googling the subject to see what other people do. Let us know what you find, too. I’m sure other people must have the same preference as you. What brand is your car?

[@KittyKat-vb1nd]

​@@carolkokx9638That should be known

[@nancyseiler2844]

You are an enormous service to this community. Not just nomads, but those of us who are wanna be nomads - campers. Thank you for your service!

[@gloriouslifeonwheels3621]

Thank you for voicing such appreciation and encouragement ❤

[@thecreativecountrycrafter]

God bless you! You are still protecting and serving! Lord keep you safe in your travels!

[@barbarabuford5795]

These tips are for Everyone, Van Life or not! TAKE HEED, Sound Advice. Thanks. 👏♥️👍

[@barbarabuford5795]

P.S. Wrote ALL the tips down! ✌️👌

[@mariesonoma]

Especially nowadays

[@kat4animals004]

Absolutely! Always be observant . No matter what you're doing.

[@RobinGoesCamping]

If you sleep with your keys, you use your alarm on your fob

[@Out_GalliVANtin]

Yes! I have my keys hanging by my bed, and have kept in mind that if I ever hear something suspicious during the night, hit the panic button!

[@patriciaburke2401]

Thanks for the advice! Another good idea I heard was to put an old pair of men’s boots outside by your door. Good Will may have some for a good price, or, ask someone to give you theirs instead of trashing them. Take care & safe travels.

[@EffieG-ez9tf]

Maybe we could meet up some day and swap a pair of old boots for a man’s hat & shirt. Then hang them onto a hangar and somehow attach that to the passenger’s front seat. It will look like you aren’t traveling alone.

[@annholland5176]

I would also say if you wear glasses put them in the same place every night. Close at hand

[@kat4animals004]

Good one!!!

[@AnnMitt]

I appreciate that you refer to your previous occupation as "peace" officer. I have tremendous respect for law enforcement.

[@gloriouslifeonwheels3621]

Thank you

[@EfficientRVer]

It could have also meant she was a marriage counselor.

[@tryingndoing]

Thank you for your service!

[@bryanmathew2079]

Yes Support 4 ☆ Law.

[@streetsmartintelligent]

​@@EfficientRVer Well has anyone asked what her exact profession was in the law??

[@orawancarlile6192]

Thanks, these all are great tips with some common sense. Beware of your surroundings and trust your gut feeling.

[@MarvinHking]

I guess one is never answer any questions from a black man? I have followed this channel to see if I wanted to try this ask many questions, not one answered.

[@monikalenz2559]

Carol you are The Best! As an over 70 solo occasional traveler with a tiny trailer, I think about all these safety issues all the time. This is only the 3rd of your videos I've watched and I wondered how you knew so much about safety until you said you had been a peace officer. Now I'm a subscriber!❤

[@gloriouslifeonwheels3621]

Welcome to Glow Monika. Come in iver ajd join us for Glow Lives every Satu4day at 3pm pst, 6pm est.

[@muzerhythm2242]

Great tips for everyday life not just nomad life. Glad my dad taught me what they used to call "street smarts" to stay safe, especially back when I first turned 16.

[@maalikserebryakov]

😂😂😂😂 you think you’re street smARt after your dad’s Course ? Hahahahaahah women moment

[@lisaray9404]

Thank you so much for this priceless video! I was watching some other KZbinrs (males) do their van life/stealth camping and thought it would be fun. THEN I thought, wait, I'm female and if I wanted to go on an excursion alone, can I do so safely. After watching your video AND knowing you are a peace officer, I find your advice very, very helpful. Thank you again. Take care and be safe in your travels. 😊💖🙏🏻

[@gloriouslifeonwheels3621]

I am so happy to hear that this video was helpful. Stealth camping can be a very fun activity even alone. But as a woman extra safety precautions are essential.

[@bethyoung4030]

Great tips. I’d add never park near a van or a cargo van. Ever! If one parks by you when you are in a store, enter your vehicle from the opposite side farthest from the van.

[@gloriouslifeonwheels3621]

Good point. There have been situations in which someone slid out from a van and cut women's ankles.

[@MaryLaRue-k8e]

Or they were grabbed and pulled into the van.

[@EffieG-ez9tf]

@@Bernimv Why not? What does you having a cargo van have to do with it?

[@Bernimv]

@EffieG-ez9tf What does me having a cargo van have to do with the conversion you ask. The text said, "Never park near a van or cargo van. Ever!" Then it being mentioned "great point." To answer your question as to why I said,"...so no one will bother me." Meaning their right, one has to watch their 6, and I do. But I do live in a cargo van, meaning they'll avoid me because they judge my van for evil cause it's a "cargo van" to be the bad person and avoid me so you see, No-one will park next to me because they'll think I'm the bad one... So, they won't bother me, and I'll be safe because they'll avoid me.

[@Bernimv]

@@EffieG-ez9tf 🚐🌻🇵🇷🏝🌞🌊🌺🌴🪴🌿🌚🏞⛰️🏜🏕🤗

[@princessluvvsg1967]

I definitely would carry and place air horn throughout my vehicle too to draw attention to me or my vehicle

[@gloriouslifeonwheels3621]

I bet that would throw off a would be criminal🤣

[@Debrasvantasticjourney]

THIS IS A MUST WATCH! As a solo female traveler I truly appreciate this video. Although I know these things it is important to be reminded. Some things that came to mind: 1. Be careful who you talk to and what you say. Be aware of who may be listening. 2. REALLY LOOK ATOUND ANY POTENTIAL OVERNIGHT SPOT! I like to sit there a while and observe. 3. If you have to put anything in the front of your vehicle try to put it on the floor and cover with a black towel. 4. Check your tires OFTEN. That is what the truckers do. 5. Always have cash. I hide at least $100 in case I get robbed or lose my wallet. Again, thank you so much for this. Well done!

[@gloriouslifeonwheels3621]

You make some great points. It is really important to be careful about what you share with others as you are so right. You never know who is listening. If I do another safety video I will also add to be mindful of people who seem to be overly.interested in you....where you're from, where you're going, who you're meeting,. Or even people who seem to be watching you for no apparent reason. Just being mindful of your surroundings and those in it.

[@DeeDee-he1cc]

Excellent tips Carol I have used most of these when traveling alone but learned some new ones too. I no longer travel at night nor vear off onto lonely roads alone to see the sights. The world has really changed in the last few years and I no longer feel safe traveling long distances and camping alone. The old saying holds true there really is safety in numbers.

[@gloriouslifeonwheels3621]

Things really have changed and we must change with the times in order to stay safe.

[@bookbakery]

I have not started, and I wondered if the dangers I know about have changed Van/RV life and if it is even safe to start. I have a loud dog. I mean, she is really loud. She loves being at home. And if there is any noise, she will bark so much that the decibel app on my phone shows a warning because her bark is at 80 decibels.

[@bookbakery]

@@gloriouslifeonwheels3621 , I used to drive back and forth to a big city for doctor's appointments. My husband worked, so he could not always go with me. Sometimes I drove home at night. He bought me what looks like a real man who is 6'2" tall. I put sunglasses on it during the daytime and sometimes at night. It looks like regular glasses, and the eyes are very blue. It is fully clothed in clean and nice casual clothes. I put it in the front seat with me. That was about 20 years ago. It looks as real as the day he bought it. When my grandchildren were little, I had to hide it because it scared them too much to leave it out.

[@lorinelsen-allen1379]

Your best advice yet Carol!! Thank god you had a call box when you broke down…unfortunately, not every State has call boxes ❤ From this fan with 30 years working in the criminal justice system. Listen to your gut instincts!! Best advice

[@bonniestillwater56]

Love your Tips, and I completely agree with them. I especially encourage people not to wear headphones or earphones out in public, especially when seemingly alone, which prevents you from being able to hear any sounds around you. Also when people bury their faces in their phones when they are in an area/situation they are somewhat vulnerable and not paying attention to their surroundings, I think is really not a good idea.

[@clarkleakins879]

Sleeping in your vehicle: Add a device to each door, on the inside, which can latch/lock/prevent the door from opening. IF the glass is broken, bad person can quickly reach in and open/pull up the lock pin and enter. Simple dead bolt, or trunk hasp, can provide this security. Another method, use a heavy strap/cable through the door armrest, across to the other door armrest. Surely you get the idea. Have a knowledgeable handy friend help with the idea and install. Keep it simple, and not in plain sight, so that YOU can exit quickly in an emergency.

[@gloriouslifeonwheels3621]

Thanks for thr great ideas

[@margaretmartin3143]

Do u have a link for it? I'm not finding them. Also, have u heard of that safety tint?

[@marthahackett8967]

You give good advice especially for seniors. I always remember. I can no longer run fast I am easy to size up as a good target for criminals because I have mobility problems but refuse to let it stop me from the lifestyle I love. In parking lots I sleep under the light because it's less likely to be robbed in a well lit area. Because my window covers fit perfectly the light doesn't bother me. If I am going into a area that I don't know and it's going to get dark soon I sleep at a truck stop welcome center or someplace like Walmart. Then the next day I have daylight to check out the area. On dark rainy days I do the same things. And I always trust my gut.

[@gloriouslifeonwheels3621]

Sounds like you are already using wise precautions👍

[@GwenDeeful]

Great tips for everyone. Love the yell FIRE tip from one of your viewers. The best tip from you Listen to your gut.

[@raysun2be]

Great tips Carol, and I think can be applied for anyone for their personal safety. #1 is especially important for us seniors as we are more prone to sudden health issues and accidents. I agree on the self defense items, whether it be a spray or something else, practice and make sure you know how to use it without fumbling around. Hopefully you never have to use it, but if you do, you don't have the time to read instructions or figure out how to use it. Thanks for an informative video that can keep nomads safe out there.

[@CatBalou38]

Always know where you're at. When you pull off the highway check the exit number and the number of the road and or Street you're pulling on to. That way if you have to call 911 they can easily find you. Usually the first thing they say is where is your emergency. Blind views says to hang out a dog leash on your door or something. I remember that from a live stream. Excellent video thank you for posting

[@gloriouslifeonwheels3621]

Excellent point about knowing exactly where you are located in case you have to call for help!!

[@EffieG-ez9tf]

One lady on KZbin who camps in her van mentioned this method for a little extra security: Any time she is camped alone, she first loops each seatbelt near a door through the door handle and then snaps it into the seatbelt lock. Anyone who tries to get inside by breaking open the door won’t succeed. And during the day when driving, she just keeps them locked in that way-except for the driver’s door of course. Pretty smart cookie.

[@cathyjay2569]

You are a very wise woman! Also, you look so beautiful today, Carol! Gorgeous! Thank you for your very helpful advice.❤TN Nana

[@willothewispl]

I even remind my son of these things, he travels alone a lot. I always keep an eye out for cars following me when I pull out of a place, especially in the evening, if I am out after dark. Which I try not to be out after dark by myself anymore. I have always remembered what someone said to me a long time ago, that sometimes nothing good happens outside after it gets dark. Make your life in the daylight hours, especially out of the home if you are alone a lot. When I was younger I did not always heed this advice, but now that I am older I always do. I have had younger people watch me in the oddest way a few times, that gave me a really creepy feeling. Now most younger people I have come across are very kind to me, but there have been a few that were not, and let me know it. You just never know.

[@gloriouslifeonwheels3621]

It definitely pays to be cautious.

[@kevindesai7227]

Great suggestions!!! The world is getting crazier....be safe everyone ❣️❣️

[@EfficientRVer]

I think I'll add one, and disagree with one at least slightly. 22. Thoroughly test out how you lock your vehicle, and realize that an accurate test of it absolutely requires a second person. If you have keyless entry, or push button start, be especially careful. DO NOT assume that how the car locks work is the same when you enter a rear door or even the passenger door, as when you enter via the driver door. Sometimes the way around an unexpected way the car locking system works, is to use the mechanical key to lock the driver's door, while leaving a rear door open to get in and lock yourself in. But even then, sometimes that disables the fob lock/unlock function, or the keyless entry, or not. You simply can't know until you test it out every which way. In some cars, after you enter a rear door, the front doors unlock. Also thoroughly test what ways to unlock and get out work or don't work. Some rear doors act like the child lock is on, when it is not, if you entered and locked the car some particular way. This is true in my car. The only way I can get out, after locking it how I have to, is to reach either of the front door unlock buttons or handles. So, I had to remove a head rest to let myself easily reach it, or to dive into the front seat if needed. Despite spending an hour figuring out my locks and locking procedures for several different ways of getting into the back of the car, and for cases where the car is running, and cases where the car is off, I think there were times when actually, if someone walked up to the driver's door and touched the door handle while I was sleeping, the car would have unlocked! You need to test it every which way, and write down a separate procedure for each combination of sleeping in front vs back, crawling front to back vs going via the doors, locking with the button vs the key vs the fob, having the car on vs off while you sleep, and anything else you might do differently sometimes. Even a fob which becomes disabled after you lock a running car with the physical key, might still be allowing someone to unlock the car while you're inside sleeping simply by using the door handle. You might have to keep your fobs in a Faraday bag or a closed tin can in some scenarios, to disable the handle-touch unlocking. In a way, an old-fashioned car with completely manual locks and windows, is safer, because it is very obvious as to what locks and unlocks the car. 9. Regarding parking face out, that has some pluses, but also some real minuses. Either way, someone can block you in. If you really need to bash your way out with the car, it is much better to do so in reverse. If you watch a demolition derby, you'll see that smashing another vehicle with the front of your car quickly disables your car, while smashing with the rear of your vehicle, does not. Also, assuming someone is in the blocking vehicle, or between your vehicle and theirs, if you are facing out, they can see exactly what you're doing, and they can try intimidating you with a weapon as you decide whether to drive at them or not. If you are backing out, and have a curtain behind your front seats, they might not even notice when you got into the driver's seat, and if they walk around to the front of your car to try intimidating or attacking you, you have separated them from their own car, which is a good thing. You have more options to drive forward to attack them, versus drive backwards to smash their car, create a commotion, and hopefully get away with your own radiator, headlights, and driver's door still intact. Facing out lets you see what is going on a bit better as you try to escape. If that's a concern, get a backup camera. When your reverse lights come on, it will light them up pretty well, too. They won't be standing in front of you trying to convince you not to run them over, they will be scurrying out of the way. Parking facing in actually gives you the better chance of disabling their vehicle more than you disable your own, if it comes down to a battle of vehicles. It also keeps them from seeing whether you are armed. Walking up to the driver's end of a car with a possibly armed driver, is dangerous business for them, from their viewpoint. No different from a traffic stop, in that sense. But even more dangerous to them, because they've given you reason to fear for your safety, unlike in a traffic stop, where a jury wouldn't take kindly to a driver attacking an officer and trying to call it self defense. In the case of someone blocking in a solo female to hassle, rob, or attack her, the opposite would be true. Nobody would convict your for doing anything you choose to defend yourself, or to get out of there.

[@gloriouslifeonwheels3621]

I agree.locks can be tricky. I think the second point really depends on the situation. I can see how backing into someone blocking you might move.th4m, it.might not. But if I jeed to grt away from someone outside of a vehicle trying to get in and I want make a quick escape, I definitely want to be facing out. Let's just hope neither situati9n happens and if it does we have "enhanced protection" to assist.

[@kimdagnillo8246]

My equalizer will be coming with me when I travel out west .

[@rosamquimiro2746]

Yes, really good advise, thank you

[@ekdaufin1485]

True about women all over the world Flo!

[@pattiskitchengardenandmore]

Thanks for the safety tips that can be helpful for everyone.

[@gloriouslifeonwheels3621]

I sure hope so😊

[@jstratten5326]

Excellent video🌼Just subscribed☺

[@opinionatedartist]

I would add a car alarm with a panic button. Our van came with an alarm but not a panic button. We added one that can be triggered from inside the vehicle as well as from 40-50 feet away by pushing a button. This gives us additional piece of mind because we could use it if we felt like someone was trying to break into the van ( before they actually do) or if I am camping alone and doing stuff outside the van. Our is from Viper and costed around $300 installed.

[@gloriouslifeonwheels3621]

That is a very good udea.

[@misfit7610]

❤ Fantastic tips, thank you!

[@pamettmayer2391]

You alway dress and your appearance unblemished. Stunning

[@WaywardAbode]

Thank you for looking out for us. ❤

[@gloriouslifeonwheels3621]

Always😊

[@Free2b.Z]

Thank you for these tips on staying safe while traveling.🙏🏾

[@gloriouslifeonwheels3621]

Glad they are helpful.

[@dianeabell5782]

I took notes!! So many of these tips are common sense, but common sense sometimes get forgotten in the heat of a moment. This certainly makes for a great pre-travel checklist for me, who is a part-time traveler. Thank you!!!❤

[@vanlife_dreamer]

Great tips! Great to see you still in your van!

[@shericontrary2535]

carry a fake wallet and fake phone to give up if robbed, bark like a dog from inside van, don't walk between cars in parking lots

[@celestepalm6949]

Good ones! There's pre-recorded scary dog barks & growls that make the b*stards think twice.

[@EfficientRVer]

As a fan of Caddy Shack, I remember the line "bark like a dog". Gotta love Bill Murray! There was a Prius camper who kept a large stuffed-animal dog in his passenger seat as a security measure. Yes, I sad he. I'm not sure how intimidating a stuffed animal is, nor a person barking to imitate a dog. Once someone realizes it's fake, it just confirms to them that you think you're vulnerable, and then they will quickly agree with you about that, and take advantage. Dogs these days, will get your vehicle broken into by dog thieves, more often than the dog would successfully defend their owner. By probably a factor of 100x more often, if talking about an actual attack. They do make a small difference in deterring someone from choosing you as a target. But they also are like a ball and chain on you, plus a perfect tracking device for where you'll be in the next few hours. Anyone watching you, knows that wherever the dog is, you will return there pretty soon. And that you will make bad decisions in order to protect the beloved dog, far more often than the dog will successfully protect you. If they considered the dog a threat to their plans for you, the dog would be out of the way before you return. But it's more likely they'll keep the dog around, to keep you worried about whether the dog will be harmed, to have some leverage to control you.

[@streetsmartintelligent]

​@@celestepalm6949 Yeah they don't sound real...

[@LiseWrigley]

Not needed in Canada. I've never known anyone here who has been robbed.

[@kat4animals004]

Great idea!!!

[@marilyngilberts2775]

Thank you Carol for those sensible tips for traveling!

[@jazziered142]

I use the black curtain trick too, if I have something up front on the floor at night that I want hidden, I have a black curtain that I throw over it. It just kind of disappears, as people walk by they can't see it.

[@greenmile7666]

Always keep some kind Snacks food with you when traveling, have a good Flashlight, not the cheap one from the dollar store. and at least care one gallon of water especially in hot weather. Bottled water is the best if your in a small vehicle.check your spare make sure it's above the recommended pressure if it says 4o psi then put 50 psi .everyone often forget to check their spare tire.Not all tow vehicle have a air compressor.

[@Birdzy100]

THIS Is THE Most Important video of yours I have Ever seen! THANKS!!!!

[@gloriouslifeonwheels3621]

Thank you so much. It really is critical for ladies to take this seriously!!

[@jfelton53]

I truly appreciated your advice on safety and coming from a police experience I will definately practice these techniques ! I also appreciated (I just found you 2 days ago) the "consider these things" on whether the nomad life is for everyone. I'm 71 and thinking about making a BIG change while I'm still able! Thanks and maybe I'll see you down the road ;-)

[@gloriouslifeonwheels3621]

I have been blessed to be able.to.keep my home and travel extensively in my van. For me that is the best of both workds. I grt to go out on thrle road.but when I'm tir4d come back home to familiar surroundings and rest.upnfor my next trip. I strongly urge anyone considering fulltime to try it out first if possible to see if you are suited for the nomad lifestyle.

[@1drummer111]

Thank you. Excellent advice. Hope more women are safe because of your advice. Thank you again keep up the good job.

[@tryingndoing]

Wow! Your tips are excellent and as one comment said that she wrote them down, I shall do likewise. Also folks, read the comments. There are a ton of good tips from seasoned travelers. Be safe. Blessings!

[@gloriouslifeonwheels3621]

I was truly heartened to see all the great tips viewers wrote in!!

[@theresaackerson7853]

You covered a lot of ground today and thanks! From a 40+ years road warrior.

[@gloriouslifeonwheels3621]

Took some time but I really wanted to offer something of value.

[@sheilahoness-dd9ws]

Hi Carol, hope you are having a good day and weekend. Thank you for your help and information

[@florasonners1635]

You are making miracles happen for others.

[@Fab50VanLife]

Lady Bugout talked about “5 things I wont talk about” Wise Words to add as well.

[@KARW37]

Where can we find that video?

[@monicalifornia_]

@@KARW37 search Lady Bugout 5 things I don’t tell you and why.

[@carolequery7950]

God bless you, Carol, and thanks for the tips. Love your hats!!.

[@gloriouslifeonwheels3621]

Thank you😊

[@dfros1957]

Great video, so much helpful information. Thank you very much. 😊❤

[@gloriouslifeonwheels3621]

You are very welcome😊

[@RuthAnnnMorris]

The only other thing I would do is get the film on your windows so glass can’t be shattered. There also stickers for the window that says the vehicle is monitored by CCTV cameras. I’d go one step further and get those little CCTV cameras so you can look around outside with your cellphone. You can even get them so you can talk with whoever is out there. I’d get a pre-recorded man’s voice just to say whatever you want!

[@gloriouslifeonwheels3621]

Thr more security measures the better for sure.

[@pursleydl2009]

Very good advise. Most of them are common sense. One more is. If a large van is parked on your driver side but no one exits and especially if you're parked away from a public traffic area. Insert key and drive away or park closer to the business entrance if your going inside, like after parking overnight and want to go inside for coffee or use the br. ALSO, keep a large pair of mens size hiking boots to be seen in the floor of passenger side or put out at your second chair at your campsite.

[@pianogirl3870]

Very valuable content.....shows your care for others....hugs!

[@gloriouslifeonwheels3621]

Thank you for recognizing that🥰

[@sponzie1]

Such a great lady that I respect so much❤❤❤

[@sherrymuzykazekestravels6793]

These are awesome tips Gloria!!!!!

[@gloriagoolsby7827]

Thanks for the tips I not a van life but these tips for everyday life thanks kindly God bless you 🙏

[@gloriouslifeonwheels3621]

You as well😇

[@sharonl7493]

Thanks for all the tips😊

[@helenholmstrom5623]

Gloria I have watched many of your outstanding on my TV. I can't make a comment from my TV youtube. I want to thank you for your excellent practical advice for gals thinking about doing van life! ❤ PS, I love your hats too

[@skapunkoialternativeliving6522]

Most women like men who do do Van life do have a Van. I always recommend highly. Do not cover the front windows if your Van has the apartition. Just use the petition to block the cabin from the back. Because by covering the cabin windows, it's obvious that someone in there and they know that someone's in there, so leave that open so it looks and gives you impression the Van is empty.

[@beautifuldreamer3991]

I don't want to give them a free pass to rob my van

[@skapunkoialternativeliving6522]

@@beautifuldreamer3991 Absolutely not I agree.

[@ginatulip8679]

I heard a van lifer say he leaves a reflective vest and a clip board in the front seat, and parks with other vans in commercial areas. Just covers the back windows.

[@skapunkoialternativeliving6522]

@@ginatulip8679 That couldn't work as well. That's a good idea too again. You give me impressions of commercial vehicle which means no one would bother. You, they know that you're in there. Most people won't bother you anyway, but that was certain Adrian's person will try and mess with you or knock the window on run type of thing or play games so you want to avoid all that nonsense?

[@joyce7892]

A month ago, I woke up to a flat tire. I was 5 miles west of Parker 100 ft. From the highway. My roadside assistance could not get anyone to come out...no one. I learned that day, one can't even rely on roadside assistance... because if no one wants to do it, they won't. It could have been a dead battery...they still would not have come. Crazy!

[@ms.suzylucy6868]

This was a really good video and really, really good advice. It was so good in fact that it kind of scared me! Your video along with some of the comments scared me. I’m very intrigued but I don’t think I could ever do van life unless I had too! Nevertheless, you seem like a really wise lady and it seems like you sure know how to stay safe. Thanks for the great tips!

[@shari_rates]

Good advice in general. Thanks for these sound reminders.

[@jazziered142]

There's also Garmin inreach, that you can carry with you for an emergency. Part of the problem is it is spendy.

[@sunshine3914]

My bf used to travel quite a bit across the US, hauling antiques for 50 years, he said the best insurance was to buy a new van battery every year, whether you needed a new one or not. I’m much more frugal because I’ve had an expensive Die Hard that lasted well over a decade (I don’t believe they make em like that anymore). The one I’m using now is 4, & I plane to have it checked out by the auto parts store, before investing in a new one.

[@gloriouslifeonwheels3621]

They definitely don't make them like the old Die Hards!!

[@zeediamondsimon4342]

Great advice. People that talk about common sense need to realize that common sense ain’t common 😒.

[@marthabradas8873]

All great advice, thank you for sharing these valuable tips. The world is what it is...always good to be as prepared as possible!

[@SheDevilAdventures]

Great safety tips! Just thinking about being on the road alone gives me anxiety. Thanks for sharing.

[@kimsargeant8126]

Regarding walkie talkies, please be aware that they can lose a charge quickly. Keep them charged as well as your phone.

[@skapunkoialternativeliving6522]

You absolutely write Laura with my KZbin channel. My videos are made 34 days in advance. Most people get my videos 5 days in advance by time. They hunt me down or try to. I'm done gone from that location. You're absolutely right, Laura. Because online, especially if you on Facebook they can track you. KZbin is a bit harder to track you down but Facebook. They can track you down and even when you're making videos on the road. I tell people don't have your camera. Show the signs on the highway. Because that will give people an idea where you are. When I make videos my camera slow down so it's fixed on me or close to the ground. This way, I'm driving on the highway. No science will show on my camera, which means you don't know where my location is.

[@lilliancolon7521]

you mean signage?

[@streetsmartintelligent]

Facebook tracking.... unless you go to your profile SETTINGS & DISABLE TRACKING. You can't be tracked, tell me this is STILL CORRECT?!

[@skapunkoialternativeliving6522]

@@streetsmartintelligent Facts ..

[@jowo119]

Excelent advice. Thank you.

[@MomMom-kc4ee]

These tips are fantastic and I have saved them. I can tell you put so much thought into this and I thank you.❤❤❤

[@gloriouslifeonwheels3621]

I am so glad to hear they were heloful.😊

[@judycollins4919]

Thank you for this video. Great information 😊

[@gloriouslifeonwheels3621]

Glad to hear I accomplished my goal which was to provide information to help solo female travelers and others be safe on the road.

[@FireAxel8]

Thank you so much for this! I’m about to embark on a trip across the county solo and was looking for actual advice on how/what to do. It’s comforting to know I already planned to do much of what you have spoken about but I greatly appreciate the tips for those spots where my knowledge lacks. Thank you again from the bottom of my heart and I hope this reaches all who need it ❤

[@tinalaplaca6638]

Great tips....l noted all of them for sure....thanks Carol and l'll see you on your live podcast later.....

[@celestepalm6949]

That was quite a list of helpful safety tips, Carol! A lot of them I never heard before either. Thanks so much!

[@gloriouslifeonwheels3621]

So glad you found this video helpful

[@catherinehazur7336]

Good extra situational awareness tips from commenters on this video and others as well. Packed with valuable info!!

[@gloriouslifeonwheels3621]

Time to stop being the frogs in a pot of water remaining until we're are cooked!

[@catherinehazur7336]

@@gloriouslifeonwheels3621 well put, Carol!!! Disregard commonsense advice and situational awareness strictly at your own risk. This video racheted up my awareness several notches, so thanks a million. Blessings!!

[@lorinelsen-allen1379]

Elders and females are targeted by thieves and more nefarious characters…thanks for the tips Carol! I was seriously considering driving 14 hours to the Bay Area from my home (I’ve done this a dozen or more times in my life)…and I’m thinking no, not as a 63 yo woman

[@dreamingmusicgal]

All great tip Ms Carol even for ones that aren't van lifers but just traveling to another city or state alone. I'm going to add one... Like yourself you travel with your daughter and sure plenty of others might as well. Get them a whistle and teach them to blow it as close to there assailant as possible in the ear would be idea. Also one of them things you can just pull and it comes apart but that sets off a very high pitch alarm which gives them time to run. And please teach them ways to escape from someone that might try and grab them. IE two finger gab in the eyes or in the growing. Blessings and Love!

[@gloriouslifeonwheels3621]

Thank you for those words of wisdom😊

[@DorothyRamseur]

Thank you for the great tips. 👍

[@cwstyle3]

Hi Carol. Thank you for sharing. All of these tips will keep you safe. 🙏🏼🤗💕

[@gloriouslifeonwheels3621]

You're welcome.

[@calvinmarshall1610]

Great tips thanks for sharing

[@natalielebron5532]

Thank you for the good advice

[@sandyallen1523]

Good tips. Here's one if you are solo camping. If you set up an outside lounge area put at least 2 chairs in it so when people drive by they are thinking you are with someone else. You can put a pair of men's work boots next to one of the chairs. Make them think there is a man around somewhere. I also have a rachet strap that I run from drivers door to the passenger door so no one can crowbar my door. I tie the side doors together, I'm thinking of getting a piece of chain and a carabineer instead of rope. My back doors I haven't figured out how to secure them yet. Maybe you guys might have a clue. They don't have handles that can be tied together

[@gloriouslifeonwheels3621]

I have a friend who screwed in some kind of thing that has a loop on the end. He put one on each door. Then, there is a chain run between the two loops. I wish I had a picture of it. If I can get one I will air a video on it.

[@LynnEvans-mz6vl]

Great tips over round, whether at home, vacation, or on the road.

[@Out_GalliVANtin]

Great tips! Some of these, I’ve already implemented, but others I hadn’t thought about. Thanks for sharing!

[@PlainVanillaGrandmaCarol]

Hi Carol, Wonderful suggestions!

[@lindakleckner215]

Thank you much. You make good points! Take care...God's blessing.

[@laurapalmer3745]

I am not a nomad, but I would suggest if you’re traveling with a pet that you have a potty mat available so you’re not having to walk your pet at night should the occasion occur.

[@gloriouslifeonwheels3621]

That is a good idea. I try to feed my dog early and shut off fluids after a certain point in the evening.