How I Park and Sleep for FREE Everywhere

[@morganjazz]

That’s my partner and I in the black bunkadelic van ;)

[@ProjectStarLIGHTS]

Are either of you going to make van life vids?

[@OutdoorsEmbrace]

Hey Morgan! I'm going to sub to your channel now!

[@carlosdossantos3502]

ur van looks like shit 😂

[@OutdoorsEmbrace]

They just didn't have it clean before hand! Haha. It's a good van though.

[@OutdoorsEmbrace]

They don't have videos about van life. I have a build video for my van though. Start to finish

[@passage2enBleu]

I spent more than three months in my van travelling around the country painting landscape scenes. When people see an artist pull out his easel and paints, they go into friendly mode. I never had problems staying in small towns when the people knew what I was up to.

[@joaop3268]

hey bro, what type of paint did you use? I am asking that because I had this idea of travelling a van, and making some paints with OIL PAINTING, but oil painting is not healthy in closed places like a van where the air doesn't circulate

[@non6129]

@@joaop3268 also the van can get too hot so risky

[@loriwhalen2321]

Love this! Very cool.

[@passage2enBleu]

@@joaop3268 Very late reply, sorry. I use oil paint and made a box that the canvas boards slid into and closed off to keep fumes at bay. Also slept with my head near the window that was open enough to let in some fresh air. Definitely avoid turps. There are fast drying mediums that are close to odorless, but odorless doesn't mean non toxic. Important to have stringent cleanup protocol, as a little spillage can be disasterous.

[@forestgirl4071]

I got kicked out in my minivan twice from hotels. I used to snore loudly, and I suspect that is what alerted people. Now I have a CPAP machine, and I am quiet as a log.

[@GTVAlfaMan]

Make a magnetic sign saying “Diaper Cleaning Service” or “Sewage & Sceptic Tank Cleaning”. NOBODY will want to break into your van.

[@PipoZePoulp]

"Biomass, we recycle red tape into its true form"

[@GTVAlfaMan]

PipoZePoulp I don’t get what you’re trying to say.

[@PipoZePoulp]

@@GTVAlfaMan there was a small company that took all your shredded paperwork and turn it into compost. Making paperwork useful for once.

[@deafmusician2]

"The Pooper Scooper.....Your sh*t is my bread and butter"

[@bluerabbit1236]

Buick Mackane Yeah do that and get kicked out everywhere for parking your toxic waste you idiot. Nobody wants shit on wheels on their parking lot moron.

[@scottmeyers7297]

I have the best of both worlds. I have a Ford Aerostar Cargo van. Fits anywhere and nobody takes a second look at it. The high vis vest on the passenger seat helps out a lot.

[@Corkfish1]

I have to say there is something compelling about this lifestyle.

[@patrickbush9526]

My stealth parking is so advanced I can't find my van

[@dickflinghammer7643]

I have to say your comment will be remembered as great in a stealth sort of way. If I receive no reply I'll assume your in level 5 stealth mode😜

[@wrcummings]

@Patrick Bush, Hit the key fob.

[@beckyelliott2871]

Have you checked out the Wal-Mart Parking lot?

[@blackbear3438]

My stealth parking so advance, I can't find parking... I'm still driving just go around to find it... Where is it?

[@lostsol7777]

😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@CosmickGold]

New to full-time van life, I was worried about where to park without nighttime knocks or worse, as I travel northwest across the USA. So I searched KZbin for "VanLife parking". Your video popped up right away and gave me GREAT answers. So now I have a plan and am worry-free. THANK YOU!!

[@loriwhalen2321]

Have fun and stay safe.

[@Victor1Charlie]

In Boise, ID., they'll search your van, take your money, tow it away, make you pay for towing, and throw you in jail for the weekend. Same in Seaside Oregon. Know the state laws before you stealth park b/c some states outlaw it even in businesses that may allow it.

[@Mac-po1sr]

Old Pro tip. Put a sticker on the back that says "If this van's a rocking don't come a knocking"

[@tylerbailey4500]

Gotta say thank you for your videos. I'm selling a sailboat in the Tampa Florida area and moving to vanlife because of work problems and these have tips definitely make me feel better about the change. Keep it up!

[@NLee777]

Love my minivan. It’s Cozy and I have everything I need. I always cover my windows with black covers even when I go into the store. My back windows have limo tinting.

[@oBseSsIoNPC]

I love the whole work van disguise. It actually gives you the ability to use the outside for storage. Such as ladders, tools, fire extinguisher, hiding the solar panel. Even the roof vent makes sense on work vehicles. Gotta use the hi vis vest and hard hat trick, that is amazing. Until you find yourself with 5 vans at Walmart doing the same thing, haha.

[@forestgirl4071]

And those ladders and tools stored on the outside will be targets for thieves.

[@TheMrrappel]

@@forestgirl4071 I keep a broken one up on my roof rack, that way even if someone get away with that pos it's worthless, and they might even get karma if the want to use it for themselves

[@questy44]

You should paint the sides of your solar panel rack silver so it looks more like a roof rack.

[@billevansimagineer6339]

Just great! You're really one of the best, least neurotic, and plain-speaking tipsters/van lifers. The bit at the end about the POLICE is priceless! I drive a '95 white VW Eurovan camper which is kinda-sorta stealthy to most people because, as you said, white vans are ubiquitous and kind of invisible to people, like fixtures on the street. Often one of the first and most reliable things I do is talk to the police. They're just regular people like you and are often envious of your adventure and your freedom. ALSO, I do want to speak up for the really small towns, especially the ones with only one or two traffic lights, usually along the state highways which I enjoy the most. You really need to have a little skill at sensing the "vibe" of a place, but I have often, quite often, been told by people - "Sure, just park in that big lot next to the Co-op."

[@crazymotionride]

You can also put ladders etc on the roof to block the vent and solar panels from view. Also makes it look even more like a work van.

[@motivate-today]

Great video! I found that the stealth cargo van was best, and often parked in apartment block parking area, all-night truck stops, near beaches and sometimes even right outside police stations in towns where free camping was forbidden! The best was outside an ambassador's house (we asked the staff) where the ambassador was away on holiday - the price was allowing the staff to inspect the interior and ask questions. In the morning, we were served a full English breakfast using their best cutlery and crockery!

[@OutdoorsEmbrace]

Wow! Nice! I've heard about the police stations being a good parking spot! I never tried it and only wanted to include what I've done myself in the video.

[@harley6182]

"Why would the Geek Squad be in nature" lol

[@sirrodrog]

Ahahah i farted

[@blackfragments2193]

Wow I read this as he said it

[@youarehere1251]

Park ranger needs technical help too.

[@jjmack8233]

Just made friends with a van dweller. He works 3 to 11 shift. Stops at waffle house after work, has gotten to know the night shift people well enough he sleeps in their lots sometimes. He mentioned planet fitness as his favorite. He has some pretty good stories as he works a few months here, moves on and a few months there.

[@4GodsPeople]

Thank you for the Great advice... I too have chosen this less stress and more enjoyable lifestyle... I Love traveling. I started with Living in my White mini Van when I escaped a abusive Marriage and now I have a small cargo trailer that I pull with it ... Did a build in my cargo and in my Van...The Cargo is Great storage and I can enjoy sleeping in it when I’m in safe areas such as a friends place etc ... but if I’m at places like Walmart, planet fitness I still sleep in my Van.... It’s a concern to me that I could be asleep at night in the Cargo and someone break into my Van and pull off with me asleep ..... but the Cargo makes for Great storage and Great daily living 💖.... Looking for A small piece of Land to buy now... for a safe home base

[@OutdoorsEmbrace]

Leave a comment and I'll give you a cookie! Let me know what you think!!!

[@minivanlinda1762]

I subscribed...please deliver my cookie to Charleston, SC 😊🍪

[@WillN2Go1]

National Forest parking/camping is called Dispersed Camping. You have to keep a certain distance away from any body of water or stream, and campfires can be an issue--just learn the Dispersed Camping rules and follow them. It's an amazing opportunity. Also any parking area at a trail head, near fishing spots, etc... are okay. Basically anywhere someone (like me with my kayak) might show up at 4 am. County parks, state parks, normally not allowed are usually also okay. I wanted to bunk up off I-5 in California--there was nothing. I finally just pulled over in a parking area to a county park. Along any interstate "No Services This Exit" means the exit, pull over anywhere--no problem. This is almost all of Utah. Rule number 1: Never be a nuisance (I don't know if urinating through tubing to behind your back tire is a good idea), always be a good neighbor where ever you are. Great tip about the police. What you said fits my experience with cops. Expect to have to move-- because someone called them, and that person is peeking through the curtains watching. Best 'revenge' is to have a great exchange with the officers, leave smiling and thanking the officers. And if you're in transit and can't find anywhere... then pull over. If the police show up, tell them you were getting sleeping and needed to sleep. I don't van-life as much as I like to dirt bag camp, but I'm learning that initially what seems an intractable problem of finding a place to camp with experience gets better and better. And while I'm being such a busy body.... If you ever get the nods, you will think it was just a nod-- a split second. A study 30 years ago that was in the National Geographic asked test subjects immediately after they had a 'nod' how long? Not one participant said more than 2 seconds-- some of them were asleep for ten minutes. When you nod, there's no way to know how long you were 'out'. My practice is first nod I find a place to pull over ASAP and sleep. My experience is that 45 minutes of sleep is usually enough to give me several more hours of wide awake driving. Often if I'm just nodded off in my driver seat I'll wake up in 45 minutes-- if I crawl in my warm sleeping bag in back? Well, Thanksgiving morning I slept in past 8, woke up surrounded by fresh snow....

[@OutdoorsEmbrace]

Wow! Thanks for all of that!

[@jclaytoncabral5106]

I live in my 1986 Toyota 4Runner on two separate occasions while stocking grocery shelves at night. I joined a gym with 24 hour access for showers and parked in my own work parking lot or parking lots of other major stores like CVS and guest parking spots at apartment complexes. My rear windows were dark tinted, I could slide cardboard in between the roll bar and windows so someone couldn't see in with a flash light. I hung a black sheet just behind the front seats. I used two big mouth Arizona ice tea bottles for urinals. After putting the back seats down, you can fit a full size mattress in there, I used a -5° sleeping bag. It was a piece of cake, get up in the morning. Take a leak, crawl into the driver's seat and be gone.

[@breth8159]

Great stuff 👍😁 I have found that in a true work van you can park among the semi trucks just make sure you leave them plenty of room to maneuver . 🍀📢 also when you park someplace you're going to stay it's good to sit in the front seat and pretend to write up some sort of a invoice

[@bakernicholas123]

I love this. I have a 4 runner that I sleep in sometimes overnight. It’s so peaceful. I want this life.

[@deafmusician2]

I like the idea, but I get sick alot from my bone disease/meds. It's alot like morning sickness that doesn't go away without a certain "greenery". Being confined in an RV whilst miserably sick or having to travel with MMJ and "security items" worries me greatly.

[@bethlarge945]

I am going to have to go to van life in Denver in a couple months. Going to look for a van this week. Thank you ,learned a lot for a 60 yr young, 23 yrs sober woman! Best video out there for help!

[@nomaderic]

I just left denver. If you down there and having a hard time finding parking let me know. I even know a spot you can park every single day with no worries

[@ldygzlle1291]

I park my chinook Baja wherever I want- makes their parking lot look better Ha! Kidding aside, here’s a couple more… boat docks, fishing access sites, casinos and one nobody knows- Oreillys Auto Parts. They are all about customer service and have always said yes when asked. Always ask, and make a purchase like an air freshener or a bottle of something. I just spent 4 days parked up at one. Happy travels!

[@shadybrady3209]

Wow what a great video, very informative, anybody who's a vanlifer or is interested in starting needs to watch this. Thanks for all the tips and tricks!

[@OutdoorsEmbrace]

Yay! Thanks for the feedback!

[@mb4lunch]

I park mine down by the river most nights.

[@timothyskoglund6743]

Thrice married!?

[@DocktorVideo]

Put a sticker on the Van saying Salvation Army or Good Will and possibly you might find gifts outside in the morning. Lol

[@sorenkair]

that's bordering on immoral 😂

[@shaneross7428]

I just found your channel. I really enjoyed that thanks. I just bought a super clean 2004 350 12 passenger van yesterday. I'm going to take the back seats out and see what works for my tastes. I'll just start out with an elevated bed in the back and possibly a dresser and TV and go from there. I'm looking forward to seeing your other videos.

[@12vLife]

a van with no windows is just smart! windows are overrated for van life. Getting to your sleep location late and leaving early always! For urban sleep parking I rarely get out of the van once parked to sleep. I worry about thieves much more than security guards or police, so I like to park in front of security cameras, but I don't think anybody would try to break into my van if they thought I was in there so I shade the entire front in black - but just in case I've got a siren and sharpened shovel. I've stayed at a bar's parking lot for some really good reasons. The best thing about van life is never having to drive back anywhere .

[@OutdoorsEmbrace]

Damn! I forgot to put that in the video: to park in front of security cameras!

[@jsEMCsquared]

vent air down under the vehicle using quiet fans.

[@kirstic1996]

It is probably safer without windows but if you get up in the morning and actually make your breakfast in there or cooking in the evening, it is nice to have some natural light though, especially when you full-time live in it :3

[@jashannon]

Hot in summer without ventilation. I'm going to have somebody install one of those remote control fan vents on the roof.

[@12vLife]

@@jashannon I installed a MaxAir Vent without the remote and flipped the leads so it's a fan (not a vent) and then I cut a hole on the other side under my solar panel for the air to escape otherwise too much pressure. I am able to sleep in the van during the Miami summer and well this time of year is just perfect.

[@showthyselfapproved1st]

I appreciate the couples verbal support AND yours thank you!

[@believe8263]

Any decent size hotel's parking lot works great. The same cars will be there for days on end so they never notice.

[@conversationswithadrianne]

I love flying J's and stops like them. Always felt safe when they were packed even though they're loud.

[@forestgirl4071]

The advantage of a mini-van is you can open the rear quarter panel windows for air, and tint the rest really dark, or use reflectix or the like. Cargo vans are targets for thieves, because they think tools are inside. And they are harder to park, due to their size. Mini-vans can park anywhere undetected. Being in the business, I am more suspicious someone is living in a van when I see a cargo van.

[@rinamorgan8795]

Fellow diver here, getting into van life for the same reasons. Thank you for the great ideas! I definitely would have never even thought about the parking brake trick as I'm from a super flat part of Texas. 😅

[@JohnGalt1960]

I'm two years living in a minivan.....not far from itchetucknee springs area.....i enjoy paddling the Suwannee River......no diving though just a little snorkeling.

[@jashannon]

My rig is very low budget so for dresser drawers I just use my two suitcases which are pretty big suitcases they are attached to the wall and ceiling and they sit uprught next to my mattress and I can just reach in and grab shirts out of one and blue jeans out of the other and then I keep my socks and underwear in a backpack that is also suspended on the other side. Their zipper pockets come in handy also for wallet, beanie and gloves (I haven't yet insulated my van), earbuds and tablet and phone, etc.

[@xidegel4494]

I live near a Planet Fitness in Austin Texas. I've seen folks living in vans, trucks, and cars. It's a good and safe place to stay overnight or as long as you want. 1100 W Anderson Ln Austin, TX 78757 So if you're traveling in Texas and want to visit or stay in Austin, this is a good location to stay. Cheers from Austin Texas 🤠

[@sexyladyakb]

Xi Degel literally going to Austin in a few weeks so kkkewwwwllll

[@lhr_arms]

homeless people monitor their body therefore go to a fitness club 👍

[@jashannon]

In Cali we have a chain of retail stores called The Container Store and you can find the perfectly sized pull out plastic drawers for your rig which is a cheap way to have drawers and also I found something that is intended to hang shoes on the side of a door like a closet door but it works great for stashing all kinds of things I actually have two of those of different sizes hanging from my ceiling. And everything that I hang I hang off cheap carabiners that are clipped onto metal wire which I run across the sides of the top of my van through the ribs it makes it really easy to be able to clip things into those carabiners that are hanging off the metal wires if you do a low-budget rig like mine.

[@petmom74]

Thanks so much. I especially liked the idea of of applying the emergency brake at night. I do this anyway because I'm paranoid and like things locked to feel safe. I didn't realize doing so also keeps any inside movement showing on the outside. Good tip.

[@OutdoorsEmbrace]

Sweet! Thanks for the comment! I only noticed mine was moving when my friend got inside and I was still on the outside!

[@petmom74]

I also always lower my MaxxAir Vent Fan before I park. I'm happy that I got 2 out of 13 all on my own! LOL

[@spleerfloof]

Not ANY inside movement, just front to back movement. Your van can still rock side to side.

[@petmom74]

@@spleerfloof yes, mine still does for sure. I can feel it when my basset/beagle mix gets up and starts rubbing on anything and everything like a bear! So annoying! LOL

[@OutdoorsEmbrace]

@@spleerfloof yes, but the most movement happens front to back. It's so little it's harder to see the side to side.

[@Michael9-23-15]

Lots of channels about this subject, but you're doing a much better job. I obviously subscribed.

[@pbj9270]

Some upscale towns actually ticket work vans with signage if they are parked on the streets overnight. Get magnetic signage you can take off when not needed.

[@vangazmicvoyage5077]

It is illegal in some states to put a commercial company name on a van without contact information such as phone number, address, url, or email AND a commercial license plate.You cannot fool the police and it could cost you dearly.

[@Jeremy-lh3lg]

Cleaner van logo sounds like a good idea to me, lots of stores have midnight cleaners so it won’t look odd, though tbh I’d want to be in nature as much as possible if I was van living

[@forestgirl4071]

Except being in nature means being far away from services like showers and wifi.

[@theneverendinghighway]

Something I did, though it's not free is I joined the Lodge of Elks in my hometown. It costs $125 a year. The thing is they allow their members to leave their cars in the parking lots after a night of drinking. They also promote RV traveling. And, once you join the Elks in your hometown, you have the privilege to visit every single Lodge in the country. They have bathrooms all day until they close (usually 2AM) and many of them have showers you can use. They have a bar (if you drink) and pretty cheap full menu restaurant inside. And, if you have to much to drink, you don't have to worry about driving as you can go right to your bed in the parking lot and sleep it off right there.

[@Gamingeek14]

You can also use Trucker Path to find truck stops, Walmart, Parking, and hotels

[@r12rtpilot]

I usually ask the hotel desk for a parking pass. It works nearly all the time...Great video!

[@willinthearea6318]

I just started sleeping in my van, ford E250 extended and someone unlocked my side door without a key.....The thief probably picked the lock without making noise, opened the door and saw me sleeping inside and decided to leave instead of killing me lol They can pick the lock easily with those cargo vans....They can pick the lock in seconds! I'm now trying to figure out how to put a lock from the inside. I also recommend removing the starter fuse so people can't steal it.

[@maplesden6768]

whoa!!! thanks for the tips

[@Bluetongue.]

A simple small deadbolt rivoted inside will stop the door opening.

[@LordofStormsEnd]

Steering wheel stoppers are good too

[@texasmade456]

I live in a 2700 sf home! Why the hell am I just loving this!! Damn brother! Do it your way!

[@resultspaid7250]

Maybe mortgage payments, property tax, homeowners insurance, upkeep, utility bills for heating, cooling and electricity to name a few? Some people don't want to be house poor. Imagine that.

[@CedarPinesFieldGrove]

Almost like Planet Fitness was started for van dwellers

[@OutdoorsEmbrace]

Right!

[@xtbrady01x]

I would definitely have a Planet Fitness membership if I was stealth camping. You always got a place to shower, there are Planet Fitnesses everywhere, even a lounge area with wifi to relax a little while.

[@gimmelyod]

That really is a GEM of a tip.

[@AsylumKitten]

Ryan. Myself and Aaron watched this. We both thought this was your best video yet. You seem more relaxed and the commentary is more natural. Ps. ANARCHYYYYY Lol

[@OutdoorsEmbrace]

Yeah! Thank you sister

[@belindaphillips2779]

Alcohol helps

[@RedTed1958]

Wow! You're backgrounds of all the springs from cave country in Florida was very refreshing. Having scuba dove some of these and snorkeled others, makes me really want to revisit some of my old memories. My last fresh water fun was the Rainbow River! Thank you for that! Looking forward to full time! Great video that I'll be saving!

[@plutoplatters]

that's a great one … putting work equipment in the front seat....

[@StarzzyJJASD]

Not really because there are people that will think you have alot off tools inside and will break in to steal them

[@LionheartLivin]

I'm looking into this life and thus far you have been THE BEST most informative Van Lifer I have seen!!!;) Love you slow and steady pace, your easy goingness and you're super thorough, THANK YOU!!!;)

[@OutdoorsEmbrace]

For sure!

[@williamsobolewski1361]

Great work on the video man and you really helped cover a lot of topics that people have questions about and I really like your logic on how you thinking about the color of the vehicle and the logos and all that thank you

[@forestgirl4071]

I parked on a street in my minivan near apartment complexes. At 2 AM one night shirtless person from the nearby homeless encampment tried to break in, but was scared off when I put on the panic alarm. I heard him say "oh sh*t!".

[@101perspective]

I've heard that large hospitals are good for overnight stealth camping also. I know when I went the the emergency room at my local hospital I ended up staying there for 3 days. I asked about my vehicle and they told me not to worry, that I wouldn't get a ticket. They didn't even bother to take my plate number or anything. Sure enough, my vehicle sat there for 3 days straight (solar panel on the roof and everything) and I didn't even get a note on the window. That said, I've never gotten desperate enough for a spot to resort to this. Usually, when I get to a town I hit Walmart, Cracker Barrel, Home Depot, Lowes, and anywhere else that I see semi trucks parking. It is always nice though when you find a town that sets aside parking specifically for those traveling and wanting to sleep in their vehicle. Some of these spots are rather lovely and most usually have bathrooms, trash bins, etc. I stayed at one in Kansas that even had a storm shelter in case of a tornado. A cop even came by to let me know a storm was coming through later that night and where the shelter was located.

[@OutdoorsEmbrace]

Damn, yeah. I'd be worried for 3 days straight just sitting in a hospital lot too! I have heard of hospitals being a good place, but I didn't include them because they are too random. Some hospitals I've been to had paid parking everywhere and others had security that checked license plates. The signs said it at least.

[@deafmusician2]

Most hospitals (especially larger ones) will EXPECT RV's and have a place specifically for them

[@Carlohuber]

actually the first video with real helpful tipps, thanks for the vid! keep it up

[@eyeswideshut2800]

A toxic waste or waste disposal sticker to deter thieves should do the trick and best tip is a safety vest, hard hat and don't be above getting a cone, they'll think you're doing sewer work or something.

[@eyeswideshut2800]

@@DisabledNomads takes all kinds

[@allyyoung3586]

Might not work if you're parked in nature! Lol

[@eyeswideshut2800]

@@allyyoung3586 your always in a toxic waste dump as long as they are spraying the sky and feeding you recycled poo water sooooo.

[@robi5375]

I was blessed to find a white Dodge Grand Caravan that was formerly a Verizon work van, so all the side windows are painted white, and the back is a really dark tint because of the expensive equipment they carried. All the rear seats were already removed and replaced with flat floor paneling, so if you come across this type of work van, I'd say a minivan is fine for stealth van life! I was able to just fit two camping cots side by side so the whole underside is storage, and the van has all kinds of great storage compartments. Obviously I can't do a sink, a fridge, or an oven, but we are minimalists and get creative!

[@hayzmation5354]

He could be a ninja, with stealthy thinking like that ‘,: )

[@OutdoorsEmbrace]

Haha!

[@ekinteko]

@@OutdoorsEmbrace I wonder if you can keep the driver's seat for only driving... but have the side passenger seat to rotate around to be useful in the Cargo Van. Maybe as an alternate seating/laying spot. Or just to do some work on your laptop. Of course, that will mean the front of the car is connected to the rear. Maybe only separated by a gray curtain? Which could be manageable for light leaking, but I think it's going to suck for insulation. Winter time you'll be cranking the heating, draining your Lithium batteries, which will be annoying but otherwise doable. What's going to suck is the Hot climate in summertime. It's much harder to cool the Cargo Van than to heat it up. I'm not sure if it's better to simply seal the two sections apart, gaining the proper insulation, but losing the extra seating and ability to exit out from the front door. What's your ideas on these?

[@sloburnnn]

Thanks for finally showing the rear door on the driver’s side. I always wanted to see the vent. I’m surprised that it isn’t painted white. Always helpful information.

[@OutdoorsEmbrace]

I didn't paint it white because to me it looks like it blends in with the license plate.

[@TheSuccessfulHuman]

Thank you. This really eased my anxiety about stealth van life. I am in Boston and am about to embark on a month with small converted bus.

[@Ann-jh9bn]

Your videos are top notch! I'm so proud of you! I remember giving you tips on Facebook when you first started out. You did it!

[@OutdoorsEmbrace]

Do you remember what your tip was in the beginning? I'd probably remember if you told me. Thank you so much! I have so much fun making these videos!

[@Ann-jh9bn]

@@OutdoorsEmbrace It was help with selling on Amazon.

[@leeeverett8109]

Very well done. One of the better "Vanlife tips" video's I've seen, thus far.

[@plutoplatters]

several lengths of PVC pipe..on the roof rack...... add a vice on the bumper... " instant plumber " !!

[@OutdoorsEmbrace]

Yes! I forgot about this too!

[@Sybaris_Rex]

I've been thinking about doing this for awhile now. I have been saving money to purchase land and despite looking all over the place online, it just doesn't feel right. I want to spend my time actually on the road going to the different properties and getting a feel for the areas before settling down on an actual purchase.

[@BrittBrattBossLady]

It's cheaper to do this. Then, when you so find a cheap house you can just become a landlord.

[@CosgroveNotts]

Put brake on anyway lol. Only in Murica lol It's easy to spot stealth campers. It just the owners that just think they are stealthy

[@OutdoorsEmbrace]

For many people, yes! Like I said in the video, most people I ask think it's a work van. I'd say MOST people have no clue still. Many people online here know, but so many people are so unaware of this lifestyle still. It's just normal for us, but to them it's alien.

[@zioxei]

ikr who doesn't use the hand brake or shift into a gear once parked??

[@OutdoorsEmbrace]

@@zioxei well it is different on a van, so I think less people use it in a truck or van. I'd say most people don't do it. I used to work for a car dealership and drove other peoples cars short distances all the time. Never had one that used it. Also, just in general, I think people mostly use them on hills. Just because we do it ourselves is not a good reason to think everyone does it. People are lazy when it comes to shit they don't care about.

[@zioxei]

@@OutdoorsEmbrace What I don't understand is how people can be so careless not to do one simple quick thing that could potentially save them and others a lot of trouble. I use my hand brake even when the ground seems to be completely level. I can't be sure that my car won't roll off into the car parked next to me or out into the street, possibly causing a collision with a car passing by.

[@sciencecompliance235]

Some campers, like he said, look a lot like work vehicles. You might suspect it's a live-in vehicle, but you can't be sure, even if you're looking for it.

[@chrisnunley114]

Awesome video! A wealth of knowledge and tips! I'm about to start my journey soon and this has been very helpful. Subbed. 🙂👍

[@TFrakesTanks]

Great tips man. Thanks for the great content. you actually gave me the inspiration to buy my van 2 weeks ago cant wait to start the build!

[@OutdoorsEmbrace]

Hell yeah! It's amazing! The beginning voyage can be a little rough learning the ropes, but once you're living it it's awesome! I think Ill make a video on this soon.

[@airitwide]

If you have to park during the day I noticed a lot more solar parking overhangs these days. These are in large, buy parking lots and provide shade -- a good place to park all-day if you're traveling at night.

[@jamey48]

As a truck driver, I urge everyone not to park in the truck parking lots. Use the car lot. There is a major shortage of truck parking. But I have seen many van lifers in the car lots. I just bought a van myself. You think I'd be sick of living in a box. You can get showers at truck stops also. But they aren't cheep. 12 to 15 bucks. Cheaper at small no name places. Great video ! Some of the best advice so far.

[@OutdoorsEmbrace]

Yes! I can agree with this!

[@surfsunsand]

"FBI surveillance van" .. no one is going to mess with you.

[@lilithhiddenvillain5086]

Flowers By Irene

[@sorenkair]

that's funny but highly illegal

[@SeattleFocusBlue]

Great advice. I've used a number of these when road traveling - especially multi-state and cross country trips.

[@vernardcarter9838]

Even though yall aren't trucker the truckers path app make it easy to find truck stops, walmarts, restaurants, rest areas, ect

[@tracybenson4598]

Thanks. Great video. Blue tooth ear buds are a great way to watch tv/video or play music.

[@310socal]

4:57 I know in some cities you are not allowed to park work vehicles overnight on residential street and even in some home driveways! But most of the time they will not get bothered because they might be on a light night/early morning call.

[@OutdoorsEmbrace]

Yes! There are definitely exceptions to everything I said in the video! It's stealth, it's risky. I'd say for this, get their late and leave early. I don't do it often, but I have parked where I wasn't supposed multiple times.

[@raybo5742]

i lived this life style for a year from ohio to nashville to florida panhandle and back to ohio.i have used just about all of the tips you covered and they work if you work them.You do a greaat job of bundleing all the tips into one package.The only option that i dont think was mentioned much was public parking garages.i even found one in a upscale area of ohio that had signs posted;overnight parking permited up to 3 nights.How cool is that?They are also good shelter durring adverse wheather.I cant do van life now due to a great job i found durring my 1 year van trip.i hope to do it again someday but untill then,thank you for keeping the dream alive. nomadic myway

[@shootermacgavin1]

Great informative video. Thanks!

[@Salmach808]

We’re here to help each other on being safer and smarter. PVC pipe to house a protective screen for the solar panels and or solar water heater. Remote activation of a 12v servo that pulls the screen in place at night. This will help elemental damage and also people in higher places will not see the panels. The screen can also have whatever image you want or just being the same color as the vehicle for simpler is better. Thank you for the upload I’m looking forward to more videos.

[@Kypotter]

FYI. The Roku app will stream the sound through your phone which allows you to listen to your tv through any tv, laptop or desktop!

[@somedudewithnomustache2908]

Wait what?

[@Kypotter]

You can listen to whatever you watch on tv on your headphones or through your phone with the ROKU app, IF, you have the roku on your tv.

[@somedudewithnomustache2908]

@@Kypotter does it stream sound not coming from the tv itself? Like a listening device

[@Kypotter]

@@somedudewithnomustache2908 yes. Independently of the TV. It mutes the TV and plays it through your phone, plus you can use headphones or any Bluetooth device as you would normally on your phone.

[@endurofly]

The best option for stealth van parking is (white) van without windows. You should mount a rack with side vertical cover to hide roof vents and solar panels. Safe and happy vanning.

[@evingmadeez5008]

THANK YOU... So many"van life' videos showing what's in their van.. but I need to know where is good & safe

[@620john620]

I used to park in apartment building lots. Never bothered once.

[@belindaphillips2779]

Most have gate codes now tho

[@myes344]

@@belindaphillips2779 they are open at day time. Or use the call box and say pizza delivery

[@bluerabbit1236]

M Yes Call who?? Dude you’re a moron.

[@sciencecompliance235]

Unless they have designated parking spots and permits.

[@nomaderic]

Visitors parking. Slide in after 11ish leave when the sun starts to come up. You will never get messed with unless you are parked in the wrong spot

[@johnny1556]

Wow!! man this has been the most information video I have ever seen about living in a van all this info in how to do it. As you travel around the states very useful and I will surely use most of those tips when I get my van started still debating on which size van I would like to use for my adventures. It's better than other bloggers who gives you good information but not as much detail as you have done thank you for a great video. Because I am determined to do this now that I am retired I would like to see other States, now only if I can convince my wife to come along it would be living the dream.

[@OutdoorsEmbrace]

Hell yeah! Thank you so much! I remember I was siting around thinking all the script was done (it wasn't), but then I really sat in silence for a good hour really thinking about the details I go through daily that I should tell people that I've never seen anyone else talk about! I'm so glad you and many others love this video! There will be many more like it in this style!

[@gimmelyod]

Sign Says: " C.O.V.I.D. #19 / Health Monitoring / Reporting " - And they leave you alone.

[@gimmelyod]

"Live Organ Transit" is also a great sign.

[@kasoro5261]

Great video! Love it!

[@palmtemple]

Excellent vid. Do you have links to other vids that contain advise on Security in van living, alarm systems, early warning alert systems , 360 camera set up, and procedures in case of an attack or robbery.? Thanks

[@OutdoorsEmbrace]

Honestly no, Ive thought of doing a 360 camera set up myself. There are gps trackers you can get that tell you if your van is being stolen remotely from your phone. They connect to the OBD2 readers in the van.

[@njnjco]

I'm an expediter, so there is usually a truck stop near where I unload. Not the glamorous van life, but it works.

[@the_luminary]

Lots a great tips! Thanks

[@cheath8705]

I appreciate your suggestion of honesty to the police. I had a couple run ins with cops who caught me behind the school (my understanding is illegal) and asked me any reason I was parked there. I recall reading about vanlife suggestions to come up with a story. I am religious and lying is incompatible to my belief. So my answer was, "I am sleeping." They did ask for DL but what saved me was my badge for the very school I work at. They left me be while two cruisers that once were shining at my van took off. Twice at a different time. Honesty is best policy for me even if it hurts.

[@OutdoorsEmbrace]

Hell yeah! Great story!

[@vonn1334]

Thats dumb

[@goldieswitzerlox]

Bottom line is, it is illegal to be free

[@BeepBeep_773]

People thinking about starting a YT channel should watch this video to learn how it's done. This guy is really good.

[@OutdoorsEmbrace]

Well damn! Thank you! That's the best compliment ever! For real! Thank you!

[@americafirst9684]

America the land of the free 😂😂😂😂

[@ZeusAndKiller]

Honestly it's sad this video has to be made. People have the right to tell you not to park at their business, but if you're not harming anyone or hurting business then I see no problem

[@04dram04]

Yes land of free to kick squatters off of your private property

[@floydlooney6837]

@@ZeusAndKiller Someone else's property, using a space a paying customer might need, there are plenty of reasons.

[@jashannon]

The city owns the streets and the property up to and including the sidewalks. That's why they trim the trees. Homeowners do not own the street parking spaces nor the land after the start of the sidewalk. The reason it's illegal is politics and we don't pay any property tax to the government. When you no longer pay taxes, the matrix no longer dictates your life.

[@a.j.reilly6821]

Magnum Fellatio: No you are.

[@jeffouellette9946]

The high visibility I like that.

[@ramosa999]

In 2000, after my separation from my wife, I had to live out of my custom van. I paid more than half my income for child support, and couldn't afford to get a place. I became a gym member to have a shower and a place to work out, but had to find out many of these things through trial and error. Now I'm buying land and building my own home, so I won't have rent or a mortgage, but I'll never forget those van life days. :O

[@Moriningland]

Wow! Some really great tips here! Never thought to park in a hospital but that would totally work and I had the same thoughts about hotels. Who would think you were sleeping I slept in my Subaru when I’m traveling and dark tint windows works well. Also, be sure to only use the red light on your headlamp if you need to, less easy for someone to spot it. Also I brush my teeth and get ready for bed in an area away from where I speed. So if I’m stealth parking I can just put on my sun visor and climb into the back. I also try to leave before 7

[@james10739]

Why dont you just put FBI surveillance van on the side and name your hotspot the same

[@jashannon]

that would be *real* believable... : )

[@tonycrabtree3416]

The PF/gym membership is the best advice. Oh, and “if the van’s rockin’, DON’T BOTHER KNOCKIN’!”