AVOID THE KNOCK! How to Stealth Camp in an RV!

[@CarolynsRVLife]

*Get your Carolyn’s RV Life 2022 Adventure Calendar* www.carolynsrvlife.com/carolyns-rv-life-2022-calendar-sale/ Check out these videos about some of my RV Stealth Camping Adventures: Did I get Kicked Out in California? kzbin.info/www/bejne/enjKd3WInbSEg8U Free Stealth Camping near San Francisco: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gYu8lKN_oqt6hqM Stealth camping near Denver: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gZWvm3Zje99lqdE

[@loriw2661]

As a 60 year old, female solo camper, this was an excellent video. Very, very important!!! HI SADIE!!!!!!!!! 🐾🐾❤️🐾🐾

[@CarolynsRVLife]

Glad it was helpful Lori! Thanks for watching!

[@deb7518]

Great, sane advice! Hi, Sadie!! (Sadie says "Why is mom talking to that box again?")

[@mslowkeyttoyou9844]

Loved the tips! I want to add something you taught from Matilda is to have the nose of your vehicle facing your exit and know the directions to safety. My husband leaned over in the video and said "is that you?" LOL 😆 I consider it a compliment ☺

[@CarolynsRVLife]

Yes, great tip to add! Thanks for tuning in!

[@meredithheath5272]

Yes, great reminder!

[@andreasmith8735]

Never assume is right! When I go to bed I put my clothes in the same spot, my keys, and my knapsack right beside me. I have a dog as well, she hears everything. Awesome video! I am really looking forward to your next video. Thank you for these life saving tips Carolyn.

[@louisguthrie7286]

Thank you Carolyn for overcoming adversity. You continue to inspire me to go on. You are great. Stay Beautiful and safe.

[@mariondiemert430]

There is nothing ever wrong with being too careful. Hugs to you and Sadie and thank you for the tips. Hoping to be able to use them sometime soon.

[@CarolynsRVLife]

You're welcome Marion! Thanks for tuning in!

[@lisawood8207]

Great video. I had that happen last night, getting dark and tired and can't find a spot for the night (1st 2 didn't feel right), and started making mistakes. So my *excuse* on the ready is that I got too tired to keep driving. Less details offered the better, but good advice to have travel details considered.

[@chrisblevins755]

Just a little tip, I'm not sure if you've mentioned this before. I live in the Northeast Tennessee area. We have hundreds of national forest logging roads in the tri state area, TN, VA, and NC. In this area, especially around the appalachian trail, those roads are long. You can park at the gates of closed logging roads over night without issue. I don't recommend staying for a week, but one or even two nights at a time won't cause any problems. And if you really feel unsure, you can call the rangers office to get verbal permission. But it's not necessary. I've done this a number of times when we've gone backpacking. In the southeast there are very few places to park for the night, especially where you won't risk being asked to leave. Logging roads go through cycles around here for open use for vehicles. The gates are usually closed, but that just means closed to vehicles. You can legally park at the gates, and access the public land on foot. I don't recommend camp fires at the gate, they're only allowed so many feet from the roads for backcountry camping.

[@CarolynsRVLife]

Great tip. Thanks 😊

[@craigandlisao9736]

I’d love to hear her bark when stranger danger happens. I know our Hana is such a lover, but if you hear her bark and you don’t know what she looks like or know her,,,,you’d be scared. Thanks for the great (as always) tips. Makes sense to get into the driver seat,,, or just gifto. ❤️

[@LaoSoftware]

When my dog senses danger, he'll be stiff as a board. He ears perk up and his tails stop wagging. His fur will stand up on the back of his neck. I start to panic cuz he senses danger.

[@nomadicfoodie6286]

This video came up as I am stealthing … I had all your points covered! My “excuse” is that I was going to stay with a friend but her AirBnB didn’t allow my vehicle size. Also I am in a ford transit, that still looks like a work van so am parked with other commercial vehicles. Hopefully I don’t get a knock!

[@CarolynsRVLife]

Yeah, it's a lot easier in a van and especially a transit. Good luck!

[@smiley9872]

Have a peaceful night.

[@angiewebb7538]

I think that as long as it looks commercial people assume it is. Stay safe friendlies,

[@AngelBaby11117]

May I share my story? I spent the day at a beach, signs saying "No parking from midnight to 5am". I intended to leave before midnight to stay over at a rest stop. I fell asleep watching a movie only to be woken by POUNDING on the side of my van. Of course I knew it was an officer. I got in the driver's seat and rolled the window down about 3 inches. He told me I had to leave by midnight or I would get a ticket. After he left I checked the time and it was 11pm! Next time something like that happens I will not open the window, there are some crazy leo! I realize now it was a good thing he woke me up so I did not get a ticket but when it happened I was really ticked off by his pounding. I refrained from expressing my disdain.

[@waitaminute2015]

You can even just crack the window to hear, or pass papers through. Some of them are bullies.

[@amstergal]

Carolyn, I just watched a show that called to my attention, DO NOT roll down the window. As happened in the program, the attacker thrust his arm through the open window and slammed the driver against the head rest with a knife at her throat. I know we have to when it''s the law and even that can be uncertain!

[@waitaminute2015]

There's no reason to unroll the window more than a crack even if it's cops. You can still comply passing papers through the crack .

[@lynneteorten2890]

I agree about not lowering the window even if it appears to be law enforcement. You can just say you’re driving to a lighted location. With that, you should be aware of the next gas station on your journey. It will be allowed because it’s plausible. Thanks for all of your safety tips!

[@meredithheath5272]

That's scary! Good tip!!

[@freyaaurorawilding]

Great stealth tips! I've stealth parked for years (even in crazy places where people wouldn't think you could). We're both in class c 's which makes it that much more of a challenge. My favorite thing you said was to keep everything packed and ready to move in a second. (And I always sleep with my keys right next to me when I'm stealthing).

[@kaeirenaslp9154]

Sadie is your baby- of course we love seeing her! You’ve raised a very smart and beautiful dog.

[@rhondatraywick3724]

Sadie’s coat shines like new money, reflects her health and care! Good tips! Safe travels! 😎

[@stevischermi6409]

Carolyn I'm 82 and live in my van with two inherited shepherds. I don't think I have to answer law enforcement as to my whereabouts or come from questions. I'm in the van three years this time. Government doesn't need to know where I'm going or where I've been. I stay between two towns. Can't afford a regular residence. Local cops know the van is a camper and I have a very easy license plate. They don't bother me. They know who I am.

[@CarolynsRVLife]

Thanks for watching! Stay safe Stevi!

[@stevischermi6409]

@@CarolynsRVLife okey dokey ☺️

[@HoneyandMe]

Great tips, Carolyn! I follow most of these tips already. So far, only 1 'knock' while staying at a Cabela's that turns out didn't have the 'right' to allow us to stay over. Yes, we got permission from the store, but the security came by about 2 am and kicked us out.

[@UncleMo2]

👍 I always enjoy hearing the story. As well as, seeing how the repair was done. Short updates on how the repair has held up over time would also be interesting/helpful. Safe & Happy Travels :)

[@CarolynsRVLife]

That's the plan! Thanks!

[@LaoSoftware]

@@CarolynsRVLife We love your stories. We learn a lot from your experiences.

[@tsergy1627]

I think its great that you are evolving. You absolutely know what you're doing. Stay well!🥰

[@CarolynsRVLife]

Thank you so much!

[@patriciaunger2177]

Hi Carolyn, what great advise about knowing your limitations. While traveling on a long road trip, I drove too long and was so exhausted and needed to find a place to park for the night. I pushed myself beyond my limited and I was so exhausted, we finally got the OK to park behind a gas station for the night. I never did that again, I was better prepared and stopped earlier in the day and that really helped my stress level and made traveling more enjoyable. Be safe out there🚌🛣🌞

[@CarolynsRVLife]

Always good to stop before you reach your breaking point. Thanks for watching Patricia!

[@mimipacheco722]

I sleep with a plastic slinky type of wristband with key on my wrist. I also put a hair elastic over the key and wrist to keep from dangling and bothering me while I sleep. Works perfect for me.

[@carolyntolliver1146]

You suggested The Gift of Fear by Gavin de Becker recently - I got it from the library and am learning a lot about keeping myself safe and listening to my intuition. Thank you.

[@CarolynsRVLife]

Thanks great Carolyn! Glad it is a help to you. Thanks for watching and sharing with me!

[@lolasaxby1399]

Love it! I love that you look like yourself again too. Good to see you so positive.

[@dalekundtz760]

Great video Carolyn. Thanks for your suggestions. Keep them coming as even if they are some repeats, they are helpful. As far as sleeping in your clothes, I sleep in my sweat pants and a cotton T-shirt. I also have a bark bone... lol. Mom gave it to me for Christmas one year. Sounds like a St. Bernard. Be safe, stay healthy and give Sadie a hug for me.

[@ReclinerBabe]

Hey Caroline...know why you have 134K subscribers and 1,800 viewers? It's because you ARE a storyteller....and a good one at that. I, for sure, will never need to know how to fix an RV refridge door so I just press forward until the story i have enjoyed picks up. If the new plan works for you than fine....otherwise, let the naysayers look up Google. Nearly everyone who has an RV has a device to "Google up". Cant please everyone everytime! As for me....just want to say thanks for years of interesting stories. *Recliner Babe*

[@CarolynsRVLife]

You're welcome! Glad you have enjoyed my stories. Thanks for watching!

[@katkohler]

Just an observation : Excuses vs Reasons The truth is a reason. Good stuff, Carolyn!

[@CarolynsRVLife]

Yeah, I realized in editing I could have said that better. thanks for watching

[@ronnyfoulk1858]

Point your RV 'toward the wind' And thank you, I so enjoy your opinions, company, and adventures online.

[@hopefranklin9155]

Carolyn, You are always so helpful. That is such a great ideal on pulling the how to fix from the rest of your vid. Happy that it is bringing more people onto your channel. Myself I love watching your vids start to finish. Very entertaining and interesting. Great tips as well. No complaints from me.🌞 💯🐕🐾❤

[@CarolynsRVLife]

Awe, thanks so much Hope!

[@josefinaescribano6214]

Ihave learned so much from you, not just how to ,but life lessons.BLESS YOU!

[@BeingLifted]

I'm so glad you will still tell us your stories! (... to listen to from my home base place ... )

[@kimjhpl1524]

Food for thought! I appreciate your experience stealth camping. Great tips.

[@dixxebell]

Once I had a case of vertigo...I had to stop...so I pulled into a state park there was no one in the guard shack,,,and I pulled into a spot and took a 3 hr nap and woke up OK...so then I went to the office and tried to get the site I was in and she told me it was reserved...it was not marked but I guess they were arriving at 1 or whatever, so I was happy to get a safe place to pull over till it passed..

[@joesrvhome]

Love my calendar! perfect size and pics! Great idea on the how to videos...I watch everything of yours anyway...it's your videos!

[@CarolynsRVLife]

Glad you like your calendar! Thanks for watching!

[@sueyates3555]

I am very thankful that you share your tips with what happens to your RV with with everyone. Sure your video may take long but you show us how to fix it, how much it was and that we could possibly fix that ourself and save money. I'm glad when a dog barks it lets people know that something isn't right. You never can be too sure when someone comes by your campsite glad you left the area you were at.

[@veeemit9719]

I appreciate you being candid.

[@lisarogers4034]

Great video! Very good stealth camping tips for grown a** adults lol 😁 This was for sure a help to me.

[@roadtriplover.]

Each of your suggestions are spot-on. Thank you for re-highlighting and I don’t understand why anyone would think you’ve taking an “entitled” position. Diligence, honesty and safety are always important!!

[@leslieobrien4690]

No I can hardly wait to see Sunday night’s video!

[@sharonsteele8915]

Thank you Carolyn for all the wonderful tips.. hi Sadie.. 💗🤗.. safe travels to the both of you...

[@CarolynsRVLife]

You're welcome Sharon! Thanks for watching!

[@ritasmoot1823]

Awesome video! Thanks for doing such an awesome job educating us!

[@crzypdldy]

Have you ever parked in a church parking lot, or called that church and asked to park for the night? I notice there’s never a no parking sign. I have magnet signs on my doors saying “Peaceful Journey. Hospice volunteer”.

[@lorihendricks8617]

Oh Carolyn! I truly enjoy watching your videos. I am always thrilled and excited when I get a notification of a new video of yours. Keep up the good work. Say hi and give that cute sadie a hug. 🤗 💗

[@allisondreyer4699]

I think your stories are entertaining and informative at the same time! I love it!!!

[@joygrahamtravis1789]

Loved this, smart advice. Thank you Carolyn!

[@CarolynsRVLife]

You're welcome Joy! Thanks for watching!

[@sharonspivey781]

Thanks for the info, as always. I enjoy being informed of the Nomad Life ( tips on every facet that you aquire of stealth camping is wonderful.) Your indepth details are so appreciated. Take Care, you and Sadie, keep on keeping on !! Shay's Ways

[@CarolynsRVLife]

Thank you Sharon!

[@flaeuro]

I got today your calendar …. Great photos…thank you 🙌👏☀️

[@CarolynsRVLife]

Yay! Glad you like it Deny! Thanks for the support!

[@sleepycalico]

Great tips. Thanks. A pair of sweat pants works well for sleeping pants.

[@kathleenbueter1272]

Great blog Carolyn You gave some awesome advice. Thank you

[@Pinetree282]

I’m sure others have commented and think I learned this from you! 1. ALWAYS park so you can just drive off. No backing up, turning around, etc. Otherwise excellent video!! Listed multiple great points I would not have thought of.

[@bettybrigance6784]

Thanks Carolyn for this one.....you girls look great...take care and keep going

[@larajackson7506]

Thank you for your protection and information!! Sadie is so good! Love you all be safe and well! See yall next time! Much love and prayers to you both! 😊❤👐

[@thizizliz]

Oh wow, good tips whether someone is living in the vehicle or on vacation. Although I would guess that if your rig is a quarter million dollar shiney & new one, anyone questioning your right to be there will be less troublesome than to folks in a regular rig. Just a guess. Sleeping in something that you don't mind strangers seeing you in or driving in is smart. So is setting things up so you can be ready to roll quickly also makes good sense. But hey, you are not hung over so your Grey cells were functional! Good idea making a 'how to " Playlist. I play things like that for white noise sometimes. The other day I woke up halfway through one of those 48 minute commercials. Safe travels Carolyn.

[@stephaniedavis7033]

ordered as gifts, have some Bdays coming up and what a better way to show / support a better life traveled freely by strong Women! blessings n sunshine always!

[@Erika-Coach]

Very informative video. Thanks for the thumbs up of do/don’t.

[@glennabrooks5294]

Enjoyed the video and the tips. Reminds me of when I was traveling in my motorhome in Wyoming. Stopped at a truck parking exit off the freeway and parked at the end of the parking lot. As I was sleeping the trucks one by one parked around me. I had put out my chocks on the wheels and when I heard the trucks I got scared and wanted to move. I looked out the window and saw that the truck next to me was very close. Was I to wait for him to leave? I didn't know what to do. Finally, at 4am I opened my door and my steps went out. I gathered my chocks and drove out of there. I can totally understand, Carolyn, why it's not a good idea to leave anything out. thanks for your video.

[@Maddiehere89]

Happy and Safe travels Carolyn! Thx for the hints and helpful tips.

[@CarolynsRVLife]

You're welcome! Thanks for watching!

[@bernardvandenberg9648]

Not only single traveling women have to watch out, men too. Years ago I parked my truck camper in a small, beautiful and peaceful public car park near the beach on the Atlantic coast of Portugal. At one o'clock in the morning someone knocked on the door. I wasn't in bed with all my clothes - it was high summer. I quickly put something on and opened the door a little bit with a knife in one hand behind my back. It soon became clear to me: I was standing at a gay meeting point! I was upset and didn't feel safe anymore. It was not possible to leave. Then I would have to drive on the beach at night. I stayed awake all night for safety reasons. My girl friend in the Netherlands who I told about it could laugh about it. Not me!!

[@shellyscott6447]

Good points on stealth camping thank you! p.s. Hate sleeping in clothes!!!! but makes sense

[@thomasbailey8299]

You can really sense the years of experience viewing this video! I do the same with my keys and being ready to drive away, even though I am in the woods, but I leave more out and more comfortable in the woods, but yeah if I'm close to the city always ready to roll, but I never traveled like you, except when I was younger and only in the western states. I've been camping in area's I know the past 20 years, in Washington State

[@barbjonesmn]

I LOVE my calendar! Thank you Carolyn.👍

[@CarolynsRVLife]

Yay! So glad you love your calendar!

[@davidturner3552]

Holly: I'd add one more, back in! You dont want to be turning around in the dark when you need to make tracks. Also good if you're in a forrest and there is a fire.

[@LorE_aka-midwestmemaw8555]

Stealth is out for me, since I have a travel trailer, some of these stories scare me! LOL but seriously. Hi Sadie girl, she's so pretty 🐾🦴💕

[@yourekittenme.]

What about sleeping in sweats or jogging pants (something comfortable that doesn’t look like pajamas)?

[@CarolynsRVLife]

Well for me 'clothes' are yoga pants, and I can't even sleep in those \

[@mimipacheco722]

Maybe sleep in a larger size biker short. I used to do that when I went to work out in the early morning. Not uncomfortable.

[@sky02148]

Thanks for sharing and as always stay safe, safe travels, and God bless love ya Nancy

[@nancyadamson6755]

I love your stories, your such an inspiration to me

[@CarolynsRVLife]

Wow, thank you

[@abigailhowes5944]

This situation could happen to anyone, in not only an RV, but also long distance driving in a car. You might have to pull over and nap because you are exhausted or sick. I have known people who just had to pull over as they were exhausted, and it has been proven exhausted driving us just as bad as drunk driving if not worse. I have had friends who were just driving for a drink stance and had to stop for rest. So your tips are helpful for anyone who drives. So thanks.

[@CarolynsRVLife]

You're welcome Abigail! Thanks for watching!

[@Vickyplaits]

Great advice from someone who knows is invaluable.

[@Carmencita1464]

Great tip 👍🏻. Sadie is well behaved puppy and she loves her mommy 🥰🥰

[@HopeLivesHere721]

Great informative video. Thanks Carolyn.

[@meredithheath5272]

It WAS very entertaining, and informative!!! And, hugs to Sadie!!

[@jerrilynnbicek7996]

Thanks for the good information. Love the stories.

[@CarolynsRVLife]

Glad you like them!

[@lauriekershnershoff2575]

I really like the calendar! Great pictures! It was a good buy!! ❤️

[@CarolynsRVLife]

Thanks so much! 😊

[@lindas8002]

Great advice, Carolyn! Thanks!

[@CarolynsRVLife]

Glad you found it helpful Linda!

[@deb7518]

I know I am reading this a year later, but enjoyed it even though I'm not on the road. Just had an idea/suggestion you might like: How about printing up a Daylog/Road Diary with your photos for your next merchandise item to sell. In addition to being a handy way to note ongoing 'business,' like maintenance, favorite camping/stopping spots or upcoming camping reservations, etc., it might encourage some of your viewers to jot some notes and impressions of places they go. (*It would ALSO be a great thing to have on hand to show law enforcement, should you get "The Knock"...."See, Officer....I've got reservations at the Shady Hollow campground in Salt Lake City tomorrow night. I just got too sleepy to drive straight thru...") Anyway, it might be a great thing to have on hand. Oh, and they could also keep track of expenses in it!

[@RescueDogTreats]

Makes sense, I just camp and am not full time, good info though!

[@crystalwinter2307]

Love you. You are awesome God bless you and Sadie me and my husband and 2 huskys Lola and Yukon are always rv full time living in colorado thank God for my guard doggies. I've been sleeping in my clothes because there is ALWAYS a KNOCK at the door. Thank you for your wisdom and advice✌👍🐕🐕

[@Carol-qi6me]

Yes you are a grown ass woman and a real bad ass to boot! All wonderful tips and I very much appreciate you sharing them. As a woman who grew up in the home of a law-enforcement officer and who was also pretty rebellious I would say that it’s a good idea to know what your rights are and what the laws are in your particular state. If you’re planning on being an area for a certain period of time you might want to get a feel for what the cops are like around there. Sometimes they’re actually helpful and sometimes they’re not. As for the Calendars they are absolutely amazing! Colorful high-quality and make excellent gifts. Stay well stay safe 💜✌🏽

[@CarolynsRVLife]

Thank you Carol! I'm glad you like it!

[@angiewebb7538]

Like the idea of splitting the how too videos. I like to hear the stories and then watch the repair. If I am questioning something about the repair it is easy to go back and pull up the repair video and scan for what I need. I keep telling my husband that we have to grab our key and head outside to the truck (which remains hooked up) and jump in and take a chance... I wanted a camper that is drivable from the inside. Much debate about that lol Bear spray would be good just make sure you know how to use it.

[@CarolynsRVLife]

Thank you Angie and thanks for watching!

[@hazellegate9624]

What if your setup is a cargo trailer conversion or a small camper and truck or SUV? You can’t just drive away! You’re stuck. Another tip might be to face your vehicle in the direction of your exit so you don’t have to manoeuvre to turn around to leave.

[@diannateller5675]

I love all your tips and your videos. Great stuff! Btw, is that a lump on Sadies left side? I hope it was just a shadow or trick with the camera. Anyway, you both look great and Sadie sure is a smart, sweet pup

[@dawntrivett8579]

Hi Carolyn I was just watching the video that you posted 1/13/2022 I thought I saw a lump on Sadie’ , it looked like it was on her left side behind the leg but on top of her shoulder, I was just checking with you, I know that you are a good mama to her. Dawn

[@lauragb3677]

Excellent video, your content is always interesting. 👍

[@teresanorman3607]

I love all the info and videos u put out

[@paulao7022]

A cotton T -shirt and a light pair of pajama bottoms, are very comfy to sleep in. Some look like shorts. In the wintertime, I change into sweat pants with a T-shirt.

[@Kimmbberr]

I think that is a fabulous idea about your help videos!!!!

[@edmatlack2187]

Sadie is such a cute young lady & I can identify with this subject matter as I was in a Walmart parking lot and a police type car had his roof lights on, and I opened the door without even thinking. Thankfully I had my German shepherd/chow with me as this "cop" thought he was going to walk right into my motor home as soon as I opened the door. Turned out he was just a security guard but I pulled out and went to a different parking lot instead, anyway, sorry to ramble on, goodnight to you & Sadie...

[@earthboundnomad2213]

I have been knocked nearly every place I parked last summer. All but one were National Parks, one was a pull-off on IOverlander. I always went to the front driver's seat to talk, except once when it was just more convenient to go to the door. All the encounters were pleasant, but I just get nervous anyway. One Sheriff asked why I was so nervous...I had my license run every time. Geez... one Sheriff called me by name, the one at the door, so he had run my tabs, and he didn't ask for ID or anything.

[@earthboundnomad2213]

National Forests, not parks...

[@victoriaheatherly5877]

I loved it Sadie is to cute! Great job.

[@SuperJimid]

Stay in the gray Carolyn we'd like you that way and thanks for the tips about where to park and stealth camping

[@cwhipple5744]

Very helpful tips, thank you so much!🌷

[@kathyadam9932]

Loved this great advise. Hi Sadie. Hugs

[@josephspinelli1069]

Great tips. Thanks for sharing.

[@racheljoanfleming159]

I keep you in my prayers and I trust that your sensibiity will for the most part keep you safe. You use common sense, the best of the 6 senses. God Bless. Dear God, You know Sadie and Carolyn and those closest to their hearts, and You best know their needs. AMEN

[@celestepalm6949]

I always thought stealth camping in a Class C would be a mainly futile exercise. It's easier if you're in a van-type or a truck-type camper. But a Class C or A stick out like a sore thumb no matter where you are (outside a campsite). You pretty much have to hide out of sight.

[@CarolynsRVLife]

Not necessarily. Sometimes you can hide in plain sight. I usually manage to do that.

[@celestepalm6949]

@@CarolynsRVLife Glad you can make it work!

[@magicgemmaster7055]

Does that make sense? So... Yeah!

[@multi_leo]

Definitely very helpful tips, thank you! 🙌

[@kathyfaulk710]

I"ve crossed borders more times than I can mention. (Mostly Canada). I've found that being honest is absolutely the best thing to do. Just answer exactly what is being asked and be honest with all law enforcement. Other than that, I wouldn't trust anyone.

[@CarolynsRVLife]

Great advice Kathy! The truth is always better!

[@lm9753LyndaAnn]

I love the way you think!

[@melodeebourdeau]

It makes perfect sense! love it!

[@Cj-bw3hn]

Get some sleep shorts maybe ? They are cover everything, and they are comfy. Thanks for sharing