Living in a Van Stealth Vanlife

Many nomads are still working, and because most jobs are in cities, there are a whole bunch of us Stealth Parking in cities. Most of us dread the “The Knock” in the middle of the night from a cop telling us to move on-but how can we avoid it? Fortunately there is a great deal you can do to avoid the issue and in todays video we meet Jarrod Tucci who had been Stealth Parking in some of the most anti-nomad cities in California and has managed to never get the Knock on the door. He shares his secret tips and trick about the best ways to stealth park in places where it’s very difficult.
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Thanks for watching!

[@lostdarkside]

Slept in my SUV back in college .. one night a cop came up and put the light on my vehicle while I was trying to sleep. I opened the door , showed him my ID, told him I was a student and my situation. He was cool and told the other patrol units I was there and not to bother me. Scary as hell when it happened though lol

[@charlaville7658]

It would leave you shaken up. I have seen police going along entire streets in small country towns here in Australia with their high powered torches looking into everyone's car on the street and banging on the side even though it was clear nobody was sleeping in any of them and that was BEFORE Australia's homelessness crisis hit

[@kennyledet186]

There is more than one way to live life. It shouldn't be illegal or looked down upon to live a different lifestyle, as long as you dont harm others.

[@beardvsmess3657]

Well said 😀👍

[@sarahclark9923]

@Barack Obama that would fall under the category of “hurting others”. Yes. So not OK.

[@sebas8225]

Unfortunately the biggots will think differently

[@1sthawkfeathers547]

Stealth is the operative word.

[@HalkerVeil]

The next part of that is what is included in the term "harm others". Because everyone can view anything as harmful to someone.

[@gypsybelle4757]

Bob and Jarrod together?? I don’t know about y’all, but I am taking notes! These two gentlemen are a Huge Wealth of knowledge in the nomad world. Van Life Jedis.

[@k.leinpondmire8096]

I lived in Key West (which is VERY strict about people living in vehicles) in my van for over a month by finding houses during the day that were being remodeled and parking in front of them at night. I moved to a new spot after 10 pm every night and made sure I was gone by 6 the next morning. Never had a problem.

[@dianerincon3196]

I live in a second floor apartment in LA, North Hollywood area. Even though I suspect a van which parks in front of the building is being lived in, I see no need to complain about it. We’re all trying to make our way through this life, and he doesn’t cause any problems.

[@redsundragon]

Thank you for your attitude. We live in a world full of self-righteus , judgemental people. Lets all live in peace

[@mysteryandmeaning297]

See people always know your there.

[@debbiedebbie9473]

Thank you for letting them stay there. They just want to be settled and feel safe.

[@coraleez]

Live and let live 😊 and the old golden rule, do unto others as you would have done to you…never know, the dwelling roles could be be reversed at some point in one’s life and it could be you, or your family member out there just trying to find a spot to rest their heads.

[@denisecatlett7203]

It’s all about not causing problems and being respectful.

[@tony64t]

The best line on this video " just don't go inside, and use their complementary breakfast! " 😉😉👌 💓

[@christynelong5357]

Im a security guard Ive had to perform the dreadded door knock Its a private lot and after 11pm no one except me is allowed to park there I felt bad but because im a van dweller i was able to direct him a few blocks down to where hes allowed to park Felt bad but the other lot was our patrol as well and its public so i let him know when i would be patrolling and that he was allowed to park there all night

[@petrosbechet4356]

That was rather kind of u. U did your job and still showed sympathy for others.

[@twalatka]

I have advanced degrees and have a good job. I have experienced some very traumatic events and injured some major dept. Housing costs have increased stratosphericly. This has led to me moving into my Jeep. I prepped for 7 months and have now been live in it for a week. I am in Utah, and am figuring it out each day.

[@debbiedebbie9473]

Incurred major debt. Took a minute to figure out the typo. I hope you're doing well.

[@kalebproductions9316]

I used to park in a dark area of a hotel parking close to a 24 hour fitness which I was a member of and did that every night for months. I had a PO box and a cell phone. I was never bothered. I did however have two Nalgen bottles, one round and one square, one to drink out of and one to answer nature's call. They were different shapes so I could tell the difference in the dark without turning a light on at night.

[@debbiedebbie9473]

Did car doors slamming and people talking wake you up all night near a hotel ?

[@lindadowling8484]

He keeps a hardhat, clipboard and orange vest on dash at night parking among other white work vans. What a babe. Bob has the best guests in this reality series.

[@PatronSaintofKnives]

An old friend of mine lived in a converted refrigerator truck. Well insulated, skylights for natural light, peepholes along the side with covers. Parked in industrial areas. Kept his motorcycle at the back door with a swing out winch. No one ever bothered him.

[@jeffa6780]

My girlfriend and I traveled the nomadic lifestyle from 1980 to 2006 going to art shows and seeing different parts of the country. I can't imagine doing that today. Out of all those years we only had one knock-at-the-door and three serious confrontations. Not bad for 26 years. We started with a camper on a pickup truck and ended up with a 14' truck pulling a 32' trailer. Never had a wreck but saw plenty of them. We could write an unbelievable book about our traveling experiences. Since you are listening to Audible, our method back then was, "Books on Tape". Some nights we would lie in the dark and listen to old-time radio shows on cassettes. A classic is Orson Wells', "War of the Worlds". Yep, we had a lot of fun!

[@shirleyrudenko8745]

That's great man. As a trucker, I want to retire to the rv Valhalla with whenever I want side work taking loads 400 miles out and back, then continue my nomadic life in grand canyon one month to the bitter root mountain range the next! Live life better than you could plan and trust God to take to his celestial shores...

[@greenvillegreer247]

@Richard Head I bet you spent most your life not living life.

[@Graysett]

Do you have any tips on parking in more urban environments while taking up that much space? 46' of space isn't anything to sneeze at, it's the one factor preventing me from committing to trying to live out of a vehicle longer than a sprinter van or something.

[@store4books]

I'm curious what pulled you off the road if you'd like to share, and what was it like going from being a nomad for 26 years to renting or a house or whatever?

[@brucesmith9144]

It is said everyone has at least one book in them. You really should consider writing a book about your experiences.

[@christopherrasmussen8718]

Small towns while traveling, call the desk number of the local PD. Ask them where you can park for the night. More than once I was told to park in the PD lot. They got you under their thumb and its safe. .

[@RM-lk1so]

Really? No way? Omg? They need room for thier own parking. No? Wow

[@wade5941]

Sounds like a plan to me.

[@wade5941]

@@christopherrasmussen8718 Makes sense. I generally sleep better in my pickup or van anyway, even when it's cold out. 4 hours of sleep and ready to hit the road anyway. Not worth the $80 bucks or so. Rather spend the money on breakfast at Waffle House if one is available. Usually find a gym for a workout and shower when the need arises.

[@somebodyoncetoldme4428]

Wow this is so frickin helpful. I plan on living in an rv or van and I've had a bit of anxiety figuring out places to park overnight. Thanks!

[@christopherrasmussen8718]

@@somebodyoncetoldme4428 lots of apps to help too

[@a787fxr]

Get a night shift job. At night you can park at work and during the day you sleep parked next to the "No overnight parking" sign. !:- )

[@hotpinksunset999]

Yep. Already acquired my night job.

[@kentuckylucky3739]

How I lived in the keys...and west coast Fla..night job then pulled to the beach and slept..

[@jenniferwilt8041]

Very smart

[@kennethtruelsen834]

@ Ki

[@danielcook4176]

Wouldn't day sleeping be too hot, or no?

[@WesternAustraliaNowAndThen]

The hypocrisy involved with authorities moving people on just because their vehicle is stopped over night is the thing that gets me. We can sit from dawn to dusk doing whatever we like in our motorhome. We can cook, sleep, shower, anything. Then for some unknown reason once darkness falls everything changes and we are somehow evil people who must be moved on. It is all total BS.

[@En8el]

that's why my strategy was to rent a non-livein space and reverse my sleeping schedule to spend the day sleeping and the nights in my non-livein space. Worked great because I was never in the RV at night when most people are sleeping.

[@mesfromusa]

@@En8el Excuse me, but what's a "non-livein space"? Thanks.

[@greer8288]

It's probably just to cover themselves. If they give you permission to sleep there and something happens to you it's a lawsuit

[@WesternAustraliaNowAndThen]

@bali song Too old now, I need my comfort :)

[@WesternAustraliaNowAndThen]

@@greer8288 I can't see the difference between having permission to be there during the day and being there at night. I suspect it is simply to try and force people into over-priced caravan parks.

[@privateexposure7384]

At the truck stop you could pick up a book on all the locations of rest area's , and truck stops in every state. Great showers, laundry, eateries, and no hassle parking. ( ask a driver if he would sell you a shower voucher ) Most drivers will give you a voucher.

[@marthahackett8967]

We have used Home Depot during the day when we were planning to drive during the night. Never had a knock on the door we parked in a quiet area and were always safe and well rested for our night drive.

[@FiendTheatre]

so if you sleep during the day and travel at night, what do you do at night once you reach your destination?

[@janet1744]

😂

[@000one]

in Florida, the best hassle free place is at one of the many rest stops on I95 and I 75. Met a guy who moves from rest stop to rest stop never staying more than one overnight at each. Warm water, vending machines, bathrooms. All legal. BUT as always, you have to be very wise and safe. Always keep your doors locked and have and practice a plan. it takes a lot of guts to try anything in Florida because everyone knows we all pack heat. Also, you can use a restaurant servicing sign. They always work at night when the businesses are closed. He also told me that the thing that is hurting everyone who stealth parks, is the few that trash and disturb and make it obvious what their doing. They are making it nearly impossible for the others who are good respectful citizens.

[@brunoboaz7656]

One trick I have used more than once is to park in a hospital parking lot near the emergency room but not too close. Good for a one night stay. Hospital security tends to be lax on things happening outside the building.

[@angleav5226]

Just don’t drink , I got arrested in a hospital parking lot having a drink in my car. Like Ron white I didn’t wanna be drunk in public lol

[@catrashoo]

I did once a month ago , it worked fine.

[@tuckerbugeater]

@@angleav5226 A van is you home. You can drink in your home.

[@NoteFromSELF]

That's real hospitality. (Ba dum dum.)

[@a64738]

I am at hospital camping lot right now because I have an appointment, and only 30min after I parked here someone came knocking at the door... It is totally legal to stay here and often patients park here with campervans. But still sill the knocked and I do not know why because they walked away so fast I had not time to respond. Same happened when I parked for 30 min outside the city center 50m outside the no camping zone totally legal... Normally people do not go knocking on peoples doors here in Norway, here people normally keep their social distancing....

[@j.r.walden9937]

Signing up to 24 hour fitness gym for parking, bathroom, and shower privileges was gold.

[@jackiegilmar6617]

Closed during pandemic

[@slothyologyaguideintoathen8087]

@@jackiegilmar6617 you’re a buzz

[@bobsmith962]

It really helps.

[@emdee7744]

@@jackiegilmar6617 EXACTLY!!!! Facilities everywhere closed, gas stations, convenience stores, gyms, etc. It was and remains ridiculous. One state closed the only rest area for 60 miles on a particular highway that is highly traveled.

[@dennisbennett3219]

Yea I so agree gold

[@modzilla74]

I must say that until I actually lived in a van, I was ignorant to the amount of ppl living in a van. Living it opens your eyes to it. imo

[@Froddofromtheshire]

Ive owned 3 e250s. Lived in 2 of them. Im now looking at minivans. Kinda tired of the 12 mpg crap. One of them has the 300 straight 6 and it gets about 16 freeway. A minivan would cut my gas bill in half and be much more stealthy, especially in Utah, lol.

[@1x93cm]

I know right!

[@petrosbechet4356]

Some casino parking lots are free and security will rarely bother you. Also, most Lowes Hardware parking lots are pretty much open to boon-dockers, especially whenever third-party merchandisers are parked there overnight as well.

[@Dreamysunshine23]

Glad that there's so much support from other van lifers with each other! Love it! I follow so many and I mostly see a loving and supportive lifestyle.🥰

[@Bra-a-ains]

I have had no problems in Southern Californa. Apartment complexes is where I always stay. They have a lot of big ones which have many parking spaces. I never get out of my van when I park. I get ready in a store parking lot, drive to an apartment complex, lay down and sleep, get up in the morning and drive away.

[@2dazetake]

I remember moving from Southern California to the woods in the north east, couldn't sleep for the first couple nights because I could hear myself breathing 🤣👍

[@googleuser868]

Hospital parking lot. Always nice clean restrooms indoors and many nice chairs to rest and watch TV while you wait for "some body" in surgery. Only now a days you may have to wait outside and settle for free wifi.

[@annsuematthews]

Signage is an absolutely great idea to being stealth. I’m not doing the van life. But what a great plan!!👍🏽

[@yhnbgt365]

My mother had a neighbor who traveled 200 miles between two different work sites, his suggestions are that hospital parking lots near the emergency room driveway. It may get noisy once or twice a night, but it is a high traffic area and seeing a strange car is the normal for that location.

[@tammyburke9453]

definitely been "knocked" by security in the hospital parking lots!

[@gregfroehlich4442]

tammy burke my in-laws did that with a 32’ class A. My father in-law had health issues. If asked, she said she wanted to be close the hospital in case of a health emergency. That way they didn’t get lost looking for a hospital. Security was always very helpful. Of course they were in there 70’s. Her other favorite was Indian casinos, but that was for another reason.

[@bevcrusher4177]

Hospital parking is paid by the hour in my country. Usually around $10 an hour. No parking allowed in surrounding streets. Not an option at all.

[@clairelivefreeordie2551]

@@bevcrusher4177 what country?

[@hayleyh.6989]

@@gregfroehlich4442 My hospital allows0 parking overnight near ER underground, too. But, during day, that parking area is for patients or those with a permit (doctors/surgeons/execs). I worked 3rd shift so I didn't have to park 2 blocks away where day/2nd shift are made to park.

[@rollandjoeseph]

This guy obviously has street smarts, great tips stealth living in a van in the city, once again another great video bob!

[@justinstaley6859]

One of the best guest interviews I've watched. A wealth of info.

[@electroman6913]

The next time I complain about how small my house is. I'll have to remember the people living in vans.

[@RM-lk1so]

Right on. But remember. Its also liberating. I just helped my boss move. It took him and his wife a week or more He has SO MUCH SHIT. he was bitching the whole time. He was giving some stuff away. I was like no thanks. Im an essentialist. Not trying to gather more "Stuff" . One reason the Van ligenos so great. We own LESS CRAP. we find it liberating. The value of freedom of not being tied to crap. When i shop a Always ask myself. Do i NEED IT. OR DO I WANT IT. and....does it make me money. Is it an asset. Does it have value. Does it make my life more productive. I love the boondocking life. Keep on keeping on all. Peace

[@beblissnow5947]

& women over 60 in our cars... No fault...no substance abuses. Gentrification took my business & 20 yr apartment. Had to liquidate everything.

[@beblissnow5947]

& I just found out many places don't allow you to live on your own land in your vehicle - whatever kind it is ( if you can get some). HUD doesn't give mortgages for under $65k. & some places don't allow "homesteading" off grid. You Have to be on the septic & power grid (zoning) must be residential. SO WHAT EXACTLY ARE WE SUPPOSED to do !?!?

[@shelbythe2ds526]

For some its a choice.

[@k.leinpondmire8096]

I have bumper stickers on all sides of my van that say, "I Love My German Shepherd". While this IS true, it also lets people know that there could be a protective dog in the van. Do NOT put a "Beware of Dog" sign on your van (or your house if you have one) because if your dog bites someone, your sign can be used as evidence that you knew your dog was dangerous.

[@LucysVanAndale]

Love Jarrod, I follow him on his yt channel. He's a wealth of information as well and knows so many van dwellers. He does van tours to show how others live Van Life. Thanks for a great vlog Bob. You are the best!

[@blessedwithchallenges9917]

I've had 3 times (in years I've done this) the cops knocked at night. I'm in a Toyota Motorhome. All three times I went out of my way to let them know first: I'm not a threat, second: I'm respectful to their authority, third: I'm not here permanently and I have a destination I'm headed to, fourth: I have a job and am not an addict. Each time they were decent to me and gave me directions to a safe place to park for the night.

[@blessedwithchallenges9917]

@Barack Obama 1986 Toyota Dolphin.

[@wade5941]

Have never "lived" in my Dodge caravan, but when traveling I sleep in my van most of the time. I generally park in hotel parking lots. Gotta say I understand, with the right setup, the appeal of living in your van full time. As I get older and realize the benefit of living with less "stuff" the appeal grows.

[@geeohgeeitsme]

I've personally known two people who have had their vans broken into in hotel parking lots. One of the front desk people was telling one of them how most of their customers during the week are contractors and since they had a cargo van that looked like a work van, his guess would be that one of the guests busted in assuming they could steal some tools and supplies because well.. not the first time it had happened.

[@wade5941]

@@geeohgeeitsme I'm not surprised. I have never had a problem.

[@B.H.56]

Every time I stay in a motel they ask for my plate number. Must be a reason.

[@RobandMarvy]

We now boondock in our white cargo van. But starting in March when I walk across America, we will be stealth camping a lot through the towns I will walk through. My wife Marvy will drive the van everyday ahead of me walking.

[@dennisriblett4622]

25 years ago I lived for a Summer in an old Dodge Tradesman , Some of my best times ever . Now I own a House and all the trappings ,And just bought a base model 1999 Ford E-250 to set up to travel ...I am spending part of this winter on the Road down South ....And am looking forward to the Freedom ....PS ..Back in the Day I would follow Hospital signs to the Emergency Parking lot ,They are used to people crashing in their cars and most have guards that keep thieves at Bay . I was asked a few times if I needed assistance ,But was never asked to leave

[@RestaurantSeatingDesigner]

I am so glad you had the pleasure to him. I follow his channel as well. He comes up with the best ideas and helps with all the hard questions I never thought to ask, same like you. Your channel it what got me dreaming of this life and your guidance was so needed. I thank you so much for your KZbin channel and I never miss any of your posts.

[@bingsballyhoo711]

Congrats on living your dream. I can tell you are de-stressed! Thank you for the info. Even those of us who boondock wind up sleeping in the city sometimes.

[@lindap.p.1337]

Jarrod is a very sensible guy. I hope he finds success.

[@TwentytenS4B8]

You have to watch apartment complexes and where you park around them. ( Parking on the street is most of the time okay, but check parking regs.) Most require a permit and have tow companies actively patrolling their lots and if you are not displaying their permit, they will tow you. The same thing with a lot of the nicer hotels. I've traveled extensively so I know that the nicer ones will give you a permit to display in the windshield and the same thing applies. A tow company will roll through the parking lot and check for these permits ( Or employees will walk through the parking lot because they have a list of guests and who's staying there. ) and tow you and will not think twice about it. Perfect camping areas are highway rest stops and truck stops. At least there, you know you won't be pestered. Just don't make a habit of staying in the same place multiple nights. Do some recon and select several favorable sites and rotate them each night.

[@richardcramer1604]

The gym trick reminded me of my 1st house, I was young and could barely afford the mortgage, so when my hot water heater died on me it was a couple of months before I could afford a new one. So for 3 months I went to the gym before work to get a hot shower. P.S.- I've never being in better shape than when I had to do without hot water. LOL

[@carlonewill]

Invest in a car 2nd alarm with no sensitivity. (Just audio and fobs) when sleeping or inside the van. Activate it so the alarm lights are blinking. If someone try’s to break in hit the alarm or make it chirp. You can still have your original functioning alarm.

[@annelisabethcom]

The asthma thing. IF he was living in a moldy apartment before, and the van is not moldy (and hopefully will stay clear) that would do it right there.

[@kennethtrimmer6707]

Yes - when he said that I thought:. "Less "stuff" - less dust!"

[@hayleyh.6989]

My apt is very moldy from pipes bursting last year. I am sick a lot since and it smells like mold.

[@jannwebb]

Toured The Ghost at Tinyfest Northwest. Beautiful! Also Jarrod was great on the panel discussions

[@mountainman4410]

Jarrod! Two of my favorite you tubers getting together! Awesome!

[@PACstove]

It's not stealth camping, but i have an ex ODOT vehicle so im sometimes seen as a utillity or even a security guard truck. Also, i can pull over and collect dead fall fire wood around the city and no one thinks twice. If i see some scrap metal or usable lumber along the highway, i can pull over an load it up. People think im officially cleaning up debris.

[@sergiovalenti7255]

Love it that he’s pursuing his stand up comedy dream. 🤪✌️ Good luck, Jarrod! 👍

[@tcs831usa]

Oh

[@Captain_MonsterFart]

I wonder what he's doing now? not many shows these days.

[@Tim1968-l9l]

This guy is a goldmine of info !

[@thomaswalz3515]

I lived in my '78 E-150 for 2 years in PA... the 1st year was a huge adventure. From the beginning, I found a great spot in an old suburban area, right next to a privacy fence that went right up to the curb. I was never hassled. I am a light sleeper and need to as much quiet as possible... I had 2 knocks elsewhere... mostly because I parked in the wrong places. Somebody probably called... but most places where I would blend in were noisy. My van is old, and isn't particularly pretty, and its green... and I thought about signs, but never followed through. I really like the hard hat and vest... brilliant. I got through winters ok... plugging an electric blanket into an inverter connected to the aux battery. I could endure temps in the teens, no problem. The second year began to become tougher. My job was giving me less hours and money was tight. I also played music, had all my gear in the van... and those jobs were drying up. I was stressing, not sleeping well, and eventually began getting sick for days at a time. I also missed plumbing... Eventually renting a room with kitchen privileges... I de-stressed within days. If I should be forced to do it again... there are a few things I'd do differently... Tossi is doing great... would love to see how his van is equipped.

[@mariettakelly6465]

The only thing nice in Vegas is that a vehicle gets a tow notice stuck to the window to give the owner a chance to move. Always have a charged battery.

[@steveroper8886]

I sure could have used Jarrod's advice back in the day when I was living in a van. Thanks for the excellent video!

[@smokeandmirrors6167]

Been living in a pop up for over a year now and loving every second of this adventure and I truly owe it all to you!

[@WildWestGal]

Great video interview! Nice, intelligent, well-spoken young man with a lot of common sense. Will check out his channel and website. Thanks, Bob.

[@elaina27777]

yep. I thoght the same

[@artparty222murphy9]

Will check you out 👻 ghost!

[@gordonphillips7229]

Agreed, as proved when he didn't refer to curtains as drapes. Greetings from Britain!

[@WildWestGal]

@@gordonphillips7229 Cheers from Oregon!

[@aframesq]

Two of the Greatest Nomads that ever lived.....

[@jamesdoughty8086]

Truckstops are also a good place to stay, especially for a fair number of days... when u use a spot at one, try to find a corner spot to minimize the risk of a newbie driver backing into you, and also do not back all the way in, park in the middle of the spot... its a sweet spot for vision... its not too far up allowing trucks to back around you more easily, and youre not too far back to not be seen by a tired driver looking to back in too quickly...

[@bensonsspeedshop1191]

Another Great Brother Bob Video!You Go, Jarrod T!

[@denamurphy5819]

I have a white camper van. Her name is Vanna White!

[@besmeier]

You get to sleep with Vanna White? nice!

[@jamierupert7563]

That's cute. 😂😂

[@tiggernordberg7015]

That's awesome hahaha. I had a white cargo van before I got my conversion. I freaking ADORE my van conversion. The cops take down my license plates all the time and I'm not doing anything icky. I have been search a couple times but of course nothing came of it but some loss of time. I can't stand to be seen inside so my windows have white perforated vinyl that I learned off of Bob channel.

[@CaptainJackScrapper]

lol love it!

[@advorlando9855]

Very punny

[@ourjourney6884]

So excited Bob, FINALLY got our future home on wheels. She's a 1990 Chevy G30 Van (only 71k original miles). 🚐👵🐶

[@ourjourney6884]

@Bonnie Holman Facebook Market!

[@WildWestGal]

Happy trails to you!

[@ourjourney6884]

@@WildWestGal Thank you! 😊

[@popatop75]

is it white??? lol

[@fraslavko1]

congrats, enjoy the journey !

[@MovementDrifter]

Been living in a minivan in Sydney Australia, my only door knock was from a security guard to check if I was ok during a storm, I was nice and warm in my van and he got out of his car to check on me, I felt bad!!

[@Captain_MonsterFart]

That's a nice story!

[@matthewgodfrey352]

Here in Tassie one of the council workers told me to stay anywhere I want and just move the van to a different spot each day and Il be golden and now we have free hot showers all over the place as well so Tassie is pretty van life friendly

[@styx62ga95]

@@matthewgodfrey352 Where is Tassie never heard of it?

[@matthewgodfrey352]

@@styx62ga95 tasmania

[@ExplorinDoranRBrown]

There are restrictions on where you can sleep in your car in Los Angeles city. If you search you can find maps that show where you can sleep anytime , where you cannot sleep overnight and where you cannot sleep at all. Most residential areas you cannot at all. A lot of industrial you can whenever. Happy stealth camping!

[@christywilson694]

I'm re-watching this video! So much great information! Jarrod continues to bring great build ideas and tiny living lifestyle advice to his followers! Note his advice on being lawful and courteous in the cities you're overnight parking in!!! So many channels are encouraging people to park in expensive, beach property neighborhoods, and that's ridiculous!

[@TomTomTom87]

great interview - Jarrod is one of my favorite stealth camping channels on youtube....his original van build was amazing

[@NorthernKitty]

I prefer having no windows, but instead install RV type skylights to take advantage of daylight (and for added ventilation), and tiny cameras on each side of the vehicle to be able to see what's going on around me. If you use skylights, it's wise to still have a way to cover them to block light from getting in or out when you need.

[@dianeva5091]

I really enjoyed that interview, I don't even live in a van . Its amazing to me how interesting that interview was 😎✌

[@lindasue8719]

I've been binging for around two months (by way of research), and this was definitely the most clear and informative videos on the subject.

[@vivianhamilton616]

Neither do I, but I'm very much interested, maybe one day I'll try it, and for some reason I can see my youngest son living in one ( he's back home with me now😔)

[@preachersdtr1]

@@vivianhamilton616 I feel ya, Vivian! Similar, here. 😖😒😣

[@blessedbeyond2118]

He is a super sweet guy...really real with his subscribers I love his work he is super good

[@dougms9790]

Knowledge is interesting

[@b2dauphine]

Jarrod, thank you so much for your ideas and suggestions. You're so very kind. Best wishes on your comedy gigs! and all you do!

[@zajournals]

I've wondered about this... If parked legally, with no indication that anyone is in the van at the time, and you hear a knock, why not just ignore it? If you don't respond, they'll assume no one is in there.

[@practicalman45]

It was 40 years ago, mind you, but I lived in my metal pickup truck camper shell (about a foot taller than the old beater pickup cab..) and did stealth in cities and all over the west coast. It had blackout curtains that snapped and velcro on the inside all around. The rear door had a big hasp and padlock on the outside and I would enter and exit through the cab back window (it was a boot connecting the camper and cab that I crawled through). There was a crank up roof vent and I would actually cook in there on a gas camp stove.

[@miman-ck9jv]

Put a for sale sign in the window with a number and a message that says the best time to call is in the afternoon 👍😎

[@kathyyoung1774]

miman 48647 Clever.

[@cathybumgarner3579]

Agreed.clever.

[@laniplesko9893]

Please don’t “Boo”” me ok? I am a neophyte when it comes to “-Living the RV Full Time.”' But since the very first I stumbled across this uTube “Don’t Leave year Daydream.”

[@creativity.studio4967]

Not clever, because LA has ordinances against For Sale signs on parked cars. They also have laws against "commercial " vans being parked overnight on LA streets in residential areas. Lots of problems to be aware of.

[@alisonbarratt3772]

@@laniplesko9893 m

[@killianoffgrid1623]

I lived in my Suburban in Phoenix before and in a couple of weeks I will be living in my newer suburban in Utah. I will be documenting it on my youtube channel as well. I have reflectix on all my side and back windows except for the front row seats, I hang something across the back of those seats to block them off. I have had alot of luck if I pick wisely on my spot to park. I am also a veteran and if you have veteran plates this drastically reduces the chance of getting the knock!

[@batvette]

I would argue any sprinter van in a residential area will attract the ire of residents who care less that it may be occupied and more that your large vehicle is taking up their scarce parking. Their height makes them conspicuous

[@garybonz]

It's like pool-hopping when you're a kid. Don't break anything and when the owner says "Hey, get out of my pool !", You say Yes, sir and just go to the next pool.

[@therfdj6787]

"Nobody is going to break into a chemical truck" As someone who used to be in the chemical industry, you might be surprised lol

[@purplebasquiat]

Maybe sewage supplies

[@gabriellenojaim261]

Depends on what kinda "chemicals" you're talking about!

[@fleetvision]

Crime scene cleaner

[@jbetnar]

They want your methylamine

[@melindamyers9869]

They didn’t watch Breaking Bad.

[@CATownsend777]

I miss all the fancy paint jobs of the 70s.

[@clydeb7713]

America. You can live on the street, but you can't live in a secure vehicle because that's illegal!

[@larrygee5090]

Thanks for interviewing Jarrod with his information and experience in stealth parking.

[@eriktruchinskas3747]

From what I've seen so far stick to industrial areas if you dont want to worry much about cops and if you do want to worry park in a rich area (Laguna beach, del mar, etc) and wait for that knock on the window

[@CaptainJackScrapper]

Great interview Bob! No way I can go stealth as I am a monster skoolie, however I watched this til the end and I will sub to his channel. A very articulate young man and he can be rather funny even when he is being serious. thank you...Fair Winds and Smiles.

[@randalalansmith9883]

The risk of the "nondescript cargo van" is that everyone wants to break in for the yummy contractor tools.

[@geeohgeeitsme]

THIS!

[@weldingandfab6484]

My stealth vehicle is a Toyota Tacoma with a construction style camper shell I also have a high viz vest hanging on my passenger seat and a hardhat hahah but I get away with actually NOT having solar what I do is I have a deep cycle car battery that sits in the back of my truck and I ran cables from my primary battery with quick release so I can charge it while I drive because I don't have alot of things that need electricity which helps

[@fredricunderhill204]

Finally, someone who says there is no such thing as complete STEALTH

[@marcalvarez4890]

I slept in my minivan, with black window shades, for years. I never got a knock. White, newish, unmodified minivans are everywhere, so they are invisible. They ARE complete stealth.

[@fredricunderhill204]

@@marcalvarez4890 we agree there are methods to increase stealth. Surrounds, changes of location, curtains, style of vehicle (minivan is fantastic) and more contribute. Keep thinking ahead of the crowd and we will stay free. Thank you for your ideas.

[@wesleysnellgrove]

Walmart parking lots are always full of for sale vehicles, semi trailers with sleeping drivers, RVs, campers, e.t.c. Same goes for Flying J & Pilot Truck Stops, e.t.c.

[@wesleysnellgrove]

Using the parking lots of apartments and hotels are good options as well.

[@wesleysnellgrove]

If you have something that looks like a work/utility van try finding construction sites, new residential zones that are under construction, e.t.c.

[@carnissan6728]

Parking anything other than a big rig in the back parking lot might get you some late night pranks. Those big truck drivers don't like to park next to the vehicles they've been dodging all day on the highway so if you're just a trailer or van or a car, park up front where they have provisioned for you. Plus, those large slots in back are for working drivers who often have waited three, for, six days to sleep.

[@healthieryou7206]

I am also vandwelling in a white 2017 Ram Promaster hightop and I stealth overnight all the time. Parking close to police stations works great in my opinion. Criminals stay away from cop shops and the police are relaxed around their police station knowing that it is a safe area. Small business parking lots also works real well. The business owner is home and does not even know that I am there.Ignorance is bliss. Stay away from residential areas though . You don't want to park on uncle Vinnie's spot,now do you.

[@mariettakelly6465]

Problem with small business parking is tow trucks know who belongs there or not. Usually there are signs about over-nite parking.

[@wadeguidry6675]

My wife and I made my white E250 into a camper. For years we and our 2 German Shepherds were on the road with various carnivals as I have an airbrush t-shirt business. We never had to really stealth camp, but it was a blast. Our favorite places to camp by ourselves was in the mountains near Vail, Colorado. It was beautiful!

[@donnadelahanty9903]

Jeff is a wealth of knowledge. Thx Bob!!!

[@lynnwilliams7875]

I enjoy Jarrod’s posts! So informative

[@topixfromthetropix1674]

Your comment about restrictions on commercial vehicles reminded me of an experience I had. I drove trucks for famous bands. When they were playing in various cities, I would go kayak local whitewater rivers. In Fresno, I wanted to kayak the Kings River but it's in a park that doesn't allow commercial vehicles. I left my trailer in Fresno and went to the park entrance with my kayak strapped to the rear area. The officer told me I couldn't go in because I was a commercial vehicle but after chatting, we decided I was just a RV, since without a trailer, I was just a bedroom on wheels. Kudos to the Kings Canyon Park cops!

[@carnissan6728]

Dude, don't let DOT catch you with anything strapped to your truck. You don't wanna find out!

[@Lost_AtSea_]

All those tips are fine for California. But here in AZ. It’s a little more complicated. I found the light industrial areas to be my go to. You can’t completely blend in as a car camper, your only hope is; how relaxed the business owners are about it. The key is to move around and never stay on someone’s property. Only streets that allow parking.

[@buellfuel2001]

My exwife used to live under her desk at work. Woke up early, hit the gym and get the shower, go back to work.

[@rayrayrun]

Wow thats kind of crazy to think. What she in a white collar field?

[@buellfuel2001]

@@rayrayrun yes an auditor

[@Captain_MonsterFart]

Now that's depressing. I hope she quite by now.

[@sponzie1]

Wow,what a smart lady

[@Larkinchance]

You are right about a cheap, white, inconspicuous van.. In LA, not a problem but venturing to the wetter areas, initial "Rust Proofing" a must!.. Cheap white vans are real beers cans and rust out 4 or 5 years.

[@villagelightsmith4375]

I always park on a property line so either property owner will be able to assume I'm with the other guy. Lights out, and silent. The first I'm seen in the evening is the 30 seconds when I slip it into Park and shut EVERYthing off. The last they see of me in the morning is the starting of the engine and the moving out to another place. Mine is a hight-top with Wheelchair services listed all over it.

[@sherrymuzykazekestravels6793]

This guy is a wealth of information! Thanks for sharing your tips and secrets.

[@davidapps2605]

I live in my motor home in New Zealand and stay in a bowling club. They like it because its like extra security for them and I can stay for only 5 dollars per night ☺

[@ianhumphry1]

Do they are paying you 5$ night for security plus you get to park there.... good deal. Or.....are you paying them 5$ to keep an eye on their property? That's not such a good deal.

[@davidapps2605]

@@ianhumphry1 I started staying at the bowling club for free but you know . . .some hot shot on the finance board said I should contribute a little bit towards the club so 35 dollars a week out of my 1000 dollars a week wage is really a pittance to pay for a permanent safe spot to be based ☺

[@priceandpride]

@S H why be an asshat? $5 is a fair price to keep the jobless away and help pay for trash or whatever else he may occassionally be using

[@paulao7022]

Why not charge them 5.00 per night, for security purposes?

[@preachersdtr1]

@@paulao7022 Yeah, "No good deed should go unpunished." 🤣 (They were under no obligation to let him stay there, at all. This way, he's not a beggar, nor a sponger; and, besides that, real estate commands a price per square foot. Sounds as though he got a sweet deal!)

[@rogerf7229]

back in the early 80's my white van had been a wonderbread truck. I put all the custom van "clip on" fiberglass stuff. Not creepy. Fender flares, visor, wing, front air dam spoiler. I vanlifed 1997-2000 very cush custom interior like a tree fort on wheels! 2 sunroofs 2 bay windows TV, stereos, bullet lighting. Relaxing lifestyle for SURE

[@thedailycritic]

I also have a white hightop Promaster. I have a hardhat on the dash, invoice in the built-in desk clipboard and a safety vest hanging on the passenger seat. I have a Dalmatian emblem on the passenger door (unintentionally) and even my friends asked me if I was a dog groomer.

[@colleenkaralee2280]

So maybe I can have an artist paint a picture of a swan on the van and call myself a "Swan Keeper" by profession :-) Hey, love this brainstorming :-)

[@jeffs4435]

Hey Bob sorry to be off topic, but just came from a state fair vendor booth that sold solar systems and asked about solar for my RV and before I could say another word he shouted me down that he’s not in the business of helping people live in their cars. I instantly reminded him I said RV for dry camping and he wanted nothing to do with me.

[@macsterling1954]

In a lot of New England towns and cities (and maybe other parts of the country) do not allow overnight parking during the winter.

[@gilpul71]

Been following blogs and channels about van life for over 2 years and lived in my vw bus for just 6 months, But so happy to see you guys both sharing valuable information about living stealth and safe out there. Planning to get a ram 2500 in near future too. cheers

[@richgreenejwrustictoolmanv9954]

I've thought about the fake business removable magnet signs. I have done the apartment complexes. I DID get one knock so far it was from security at a hospital I had been there about a month earlier and he remembered my van but no big deal

[@timewithoutconsequence]

I find hospitals are great spots.

[@fredfredburger1328]

Emergency room parking lots allow overnight.

[@mikelong4428]

I deliver bread in a white box van. I have slept in parking lot of my first delivery. If I get to store early. I've been knocked. I said a delivery for the store. Receiving doesn't open for another 2 hrs