solo female VANLIFE: safety tips + vanlife horror stories

[@ChrisW228]

I wouldn’t worry about broken plates or anything else if I felt that uncomfortable somewhere.

[@mommygarcia9137]

I know right ! Just drive off !

[@flipzout100]

Walking in nature it can be helpful to carry a whistle, like a ref’s whistle. Compact, light, and loud.

[@debpartin8737]

Even skunks will split with noise

[@torriebrown9607]

Thank you for sharing.

[@BushcraftFamily]

We are gifted with freedom, but with that freedom comes the reality of the unknown and the responsibility to be aware of our surroundings and on guard against those who would do us harm

[@sarahyak_]

So true 🙌🏼

[@lorirugato6463]

I highly recommend cameras all around your van so you can see inside who or what is near you. Stay safe 🙏 your a beautiful soul ❤

[@sarahyak_]

Thank you!

[@kraigkline4375]

You might want to pick up bear spray that has horseradish in it as well as peppers... It the strongest stuff you can get. Also like with the ammonia, before spraying the bear spray quickly check wind direction, so you dont gas yourself. Its hard to get away from a bear if you cant breath :)

[@sarahyak_]

Hahaha oh great tip! 😂😂 definitely something good to keep in mind

[@carolinemaja2199]

Hopefully ther's enough time and awareness to windcheck- wich seams essential!

[@Earthlog]

Fire starter! (Dryer lint packed in an old pill bottle). One of those small air horns. (Three blasts says "HELP!") A survival blanket (Hypothermia is a killer!). You already have the #1 item, the proper attitude! #2 could be a Garmin inReach Mini, a somewhat expensive (Initial cost plus service fee) but reliable "HELP!" option.

[@sarahyak_]

Wow this is the most helpful comment ever 😂 thank you

[@ClaireMai92]

Yes! + a sharp pocket knife to make wood shavings or free yourself out of many things. They also make handy foldable wood cutting saw to make a proper fire.

[@ljoelmchanley3676]

@@sarahyak_ Cotton balls saturated in petroleum jelly in a ziplock bag is a cheap fire starter...lots of videos on best way to prepare them.

[@brigidmccarthy5800]

@@ljoelmchanley3676 thanks that's good for camping out I'm not really great at starting fires I'm new at it

[@JimToscano1]

New to your channel. Wife and I are about to start our part time van life in the next year or so. I am a retired police officer. Every single thing you said here makes good sense: helping folks this way is very cool. I teach personal security and self defense. This is the lesson plan in nutshell. Thank you.

[@sarahyak_]

Thanks Jim! I’m glad you enjoyed and good luck with your future travels

[@rogenaqshairy3097]

1- cameras outside 2- multiple guns 3- self defense classes 4- protection system aram 5- protection system locked 6- GPS tracking number 7- listen to your instinct 8- don't drove any intention 9- don't share location 10- park in save place 11- don't drive at night 12- put keys near to you 13- eat well sleep well 14- don't drop fitness 15- filled your gas before stopped

[@ahineya6146]

Gas before stop is more genius then we think! 🙏 Bless you for this!

[@ahineya6146]

but guns are debatable because if i'm not actually mentaly ready to use it (i like i wouldnt live fine after harming person even if its horny junky) - then you just become victim packet with weapon to harm me more. 2. Some of "scared off by You this way" have More strong memory about You. like not just "weird girl who is not easy to scam-mess around with", but "The one who was ready to harm them and some of them Want kind of revenge" and next time they usually come With help of somebody with "real guns+skills for it" or (usually) - just in bigger number of people. And that is unplesant to deal with. (usually fine. But it xould go to "mild fine" like having a deal sort of "guys here are all my money and take my phone and/or" i'm out of your town, i promise". I have a special kit of stuff for such "barg, or if somebody break in" - a drawer which looks like "here are all my valuables - old iPad, broken chargers - all things that actually should go to the garbage, but if somebody will find that Stush, thay hopefully will not looking more for phones etc. I had teenage axpereance around "harmfull bandits" - in their heads to get in the van is A Must even if you not intend to take anything.

[@Xiallaci]

@@ahineya6146 about that bandit thing. Imo it's a good safety measure that once you've been attacked to drive off either way.

[@aurinkobay7118]

learn Xena warcry and get a shakram and learn backflips

[@IceCeeTV]

Thank you, Sarah. Informative as usual. You helped a lot of hikers, campers and even viewers like me. Keep safe.

[@kendracooper6248]

people have probably already said in the comments this but i think a compass is an important thing to bring on a hike!

[@stephanieali6083]

I think you are a smart young lady and I pray that you continue to stay safe

[@sarahyak_]

Thank you!

[@margiesvanmori]

scary! I'm moving into my van this year and I am so psyched but definitely have worries about safety. This is so helpful! Thanks for the advice

[@ThePopcorngirl123]

all of these tips are amazing and honestly should be used for anyone traveling in unfamiliar places. my only suggestion is to avoid any undue anxiety and stress, if you're constantly thinking about being put in dangerous situations, you're bound to end up in an unsafe situation/ wrong place, wrong time. plus you might confuse your gut feeling for paranoia or vise versa and unknowingly make a situation worse. A clear/positive mind will help with your instincts and guide you to where you're trying to go. Trust in your ability to be your own guide.

[@Snarge22]

One time I got caught out too late (Daylight savings time switched to Standard time) on a good trail but it was heavily treed. It got so dark I couldn't see the trail. Then I remembered from my old snowmobile days to look up and pay attention to the gaps in the trees. If the terrain is heavily treed you can see the trail by the continuous gap in the trees. While this won't work in drier climates, it can be helpful when the trees are thick. But walk carefully as there are random "short" gaps in trees along the trail that aren't the trail. Thanks for the note on bringing a lighter, fully charged phone, flashlight, whistle, and maybe a few snacks and water, etc. Seems a day pack of fanny pack with these items would work well for solo excursions.

[@suzannesherman2393]

I hear wasp spray shoots far and it can be used with humans in place of pepper spray because you don't have to be close to the person.

[@sarahyak_]

Thanks for the tip!

[@destinymiller6792]

Look at that little Chrystal shelf 🥺 the van decor is just *chefs kiss*

[@sarahyak_]

Haha aww thank you 💓

[@sierramisc]

Thank you for this! I just started traveling solo in my van and had a attempted break in while I was sleeping a few nights ago. Thankfully the alarm scared them off, but I'm definitely going to add more pazazz

[@harriethunter8910]

G'day Sarah Greetings from Australia. What a remarkable young woman you are. Love the van and thanks for taking us along for the ride. God bless you

[@sarahyak_]

Thank you so much!

[@brigidmccarthy5800]

Its something I'm thinking of doing camping in a van I'm a little nervous but you have some great ideas thanks stay safe

[@bijou_in_vr5663]

Yo I love your videos so much I can't wait to start my van life journey.

[@lilyhoneybee4676]

I am with u there I really wanna travel and see nature and be around nature because I feel more at peace and I wanna feel free. I wanna travel the world and get to experience it.

[@sarahyak_]

Yay 💓 good luck!

[@frequencyfairy1338]

Omg sameeee

[@Nanno00]

Wasp spray is a good one because you don’t have to get close and it won’t as easily come back on you like pepper spray will. It’s more aim controlled versus spray dispersed. Plus (supposedly), they have to go to an ER for an antidote which will identify them.

[@lakesuperiorgirl17]

I keep wasp spray by my bed

[@annechung3441]

You are a smart & brave girl!

[@Mbsfpvchannel]

I have a stun gun that also doubles as a flashlight, it comes in different colors so it doesn't always look like you're carrying a weapon. It charges with a usb charger. It's under 15.00 at amazon, brand is Vipertek.

[@Mbsfpvchannel]

make sure they are legal to use, one city near me they are illegal; but of course I'd tell you I'd have a pistol on me at all times

[@brianarnoldsmeiring7225]

Thanks for this wonderful video and the safety tips. I have been camping in Southern Africa for many years and have never had any major issues but have always had the basic safety things with me. Have fun. Stay safe.

[@sarahyak_]

💓 thank yoy

[@carolinemaja2199]

Basic safety things..like what?

[@susanstebila8707]

Stay on the trail always 🙏🙋‍♀️

[@NonyaDamnbusiness]

What we call "survival kits" today were called "possibles bags" by early settlers. Basically a good knife, firestarter kit, drinking cup, snare wire, twine/paracord, poncho liner, small flat-pack stove, water filter straw, and a poncho along with some Cliff bars should cover most situations. You always want to adapt it to the environment and climate around you, i.e. add a pocket fisherman if around lakes and rivers/streams, extra socks if in snowy/cold environs, etc. and always, always wear a filled camelbak before setting out on anything. While a phone is good, also consider a small EPIRB as the prices on those have really come down over time. The EPIRB will work *everywhere* regardless of cell towers. I have a small ruck I wear whenever I go out hiking that contains everything I need to survive for at least a weekend if caught out by weather or other event and I keep a charged sat phone in a waterproof bag.

[@bluey1062]

I was told to make sure you take really realistic self defense classes so you're comfortable using whatever weapon you choose (or could find on hand). Also, be aware of the fact that your enemy could possibly use your weapon against you, so you'll need to prepare for that possibility.

[@CLSearles]

You go girl and please stay safe 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽💪🏾💪🏾💪🏾💪🏾👍👍👍👍😊

[@sarahyak_]

Thank you!!

[@RedSonya.]

I love and appreciate this video. Thank you.

[@dunhill1]

I personally carry Numchuks, Throwing Stars, and have a crossbow. Consider these.

[@debpartin8737]

But most people think a van is driven by a man And I wear my mother's wedding ring

[@sarahyak_]

Oh wow that’s a great tip! Thanks

[@roam2beborn323]

Amen girl, stay safe and smart, peace

[@Nico-gk3zl]

geez... america is so intense!

[@thomaskrenn3808]

You are realy a cool person with great personality.

[@nataliajust]

Thanks!❤

[@sophixsound8941]

a very interesting video. Many people don't talk about that, so thank you so much! :)

[@sarahyak_]

Thanks 💓

[@susanstebila8707]

I did all that best thing to do is not let them get in your energy field to begin with you don’t want anyone that close and you’re very light and when they do drugs have super powers

[@user-hz7kv6js6l]

Thanks for sharing your experiences and your tips.

[@Joy_esprida]

that's why you gotta stay strapped especially being a solo female van lifer. you can always use a blank bullet as a warning shot.. personally I would have protective items in all entrance, exits and under pillow if I did van life myself. From experience I've been robbed by 4 guys while walking home alone.. so I can imagine how worse it can be in sketchy areas that don't have their own police

[@happyday868]

Next time don't take a chance. Always have a big bag around and shove everything in. It doesn't matter if things fall off. You just slowly drive away. Don't face them. Choose your Battle. You don't give them any chance. Always park , ready to bail out.

[@sarahyak_]

Thank you! That’s a good tip

[@builtontherockhomestead9390]

I live west of Kerrville, TX in the Texas boonies, in a house. Wild animals always need to kept in mind. I have been woken up by dog going ballistic. I can tell by her behavior if a wild animal is outside. I always put her on a tether at night. I have let her out only to hear a rattlesnake by the stairs. Thankfully I got her back inside without either of us getting bit. I saw the snake, it was a Diamondback rattlesnake. I have also heard a bear at night. I've lost a goat to a Mountain Lion, heard coyotes, even seen a bobcat. People assume animals are not an issue in cities, but wild hogs do kill people in cities. Seen a video of a bear chasing someone into their neighborhood house, Ring camera caught it. No matter where you are be aware of dangerous animals.

[@Dodgeowner]

Just found you, Sarah. Thank you very much for your honesty and safety tips. You advice is good for any longer distance traveler, even those that stay in hotels. I have come across countless interviews of van life women on that “big channel” and these ladies show zero concern about the possible dangers, almost minimizing them. I know better, just had to find someone like you to speak on the subject. Glad I found you.

[@isabellacambell407]

That is Soo true, thanks for the tips.

[@sarahyak_]

Thanks 😌

[@mooooooooonnn8656]

Can you do a tattoo tour where you tell us the meaning behind you tattoos ??? Love the channel this video was just what I needed as a solo female also living in a van.

[@sarahyak_]

Ooh great idea! Yes I will, thanks 💓

[@ajduo6431]

yes pls! ❤🙌

[@aileenperez2174]

You should do a video on safety while hiking. Great video!

[@jhemnes1]

I agree with the get a gun suggestions. I have a concealed carry permit and it is recognized in most states. The states it's not I just stay out of.

[@MJ-my9sg]

Ladies always always keep bear spray on your person. It works in every situation.

[@dmann1209]

I am a big 2A person and have to say you need to carry a firearm with you. You are a smart person so firearm training is without question. I am not telling you to be afraid, but in everyone of your situations a firearm would have made you or your friends safer. I cringed when you told your hiking mishap....off trail and alone. Perfect ambush area for a mountain lion, cougar ,wolves or pervert.. You are a KZbin personality and attractive, keep your guard up and try to be two levels up on any threat human or animal. Be safe and thanks for sharing.

[@sarahyak_]

Thank you so much for the tips!! 😌

[@Jomo1438]

Another vote for a dog. although I understand that if you are working, you would have to leave them alone, or with a trusted friend. When I am alone in my house, in the suburbs, I get scared, so you are brave!

[@1lifewanderlust]

What’s the name or kind of tracker you use? TIA!

[@pandaskyler]

Girl I gotta know, how did you end up finding your way back on the trail you got lost on?

[@sarahyak_]

Oh haha oops I totally left that out 😂 I was literally having a borderline panic attack looking every which way for footprints and couldn’t find anything and then I decided to climb up this sandy hill and I was like nah there’s not gonna be anything up here but it was something I hadn’t tried. And when I got to the top there were footprints and it turns out that was the trail! It was super lucky and definitely a wake up call haha

[@pandaskyler]

@@sarahyak_ Glad you made it back safely!

[@chandi015d7]

I travel solo in my van n carry pepper spray when i walk, hike solo. N in the van i have a taser. I don't arrive anywhere at night easier to scope out the area in daylight. I dont have stickers on my van either. Lol i think my rbf fends off most though!!

[@sarahyak_]

Thank you! Those are great tips

[@carolinemaja2199]

Rbf???

[@scottbonacci408]

Amazing video as always thanks for sharing hope u had a good Thanksgiving and be safe u are looking amazing

[@darrellhayward6673]

For of good shit sis of me thinking being aware of your surroundings is the best advice of me can think of the best way to help with this awareness is a dog they can sense danger even when there asleep Ty for sharing Be safe out there sis peace love n light sis 🌱🌳❤3

[@dwhite9186]

Hello Sarah To continue if I may. Just some ideas to ponder. Secure van doors from the inside Just an idea, but it would have to be strong. You could also double them up on the back door and sliding door . Not feasible for front doors unless you did some modifications. Defender safety latch kzbin.info/www/bejne/novQZISseZt3msU And/or Strong chain secured to one door or floor with a quick release on other door or floor. i.e. back door - chain door to door or floor to door secured with hardened steel or grade 8 hardware. This could work for all your doors. One the sliding door the angle would have to be right. I like the chain idea and may use that in my van. I just have to figure out a good quick release. Seat belt straps with locking buckles. Cut out of junk cars at junkyard. Secure as you would the chain. Straps could be cut by invader if too much slack. Ratchet straps to eye bolts as you would use chain above. Invader could cut strap if too slack. I like the chain and/or seatbelt as they are very strong. And can be used on the front doors as well. Just some ideas but remember, if someone is prying open your back door or side door they will be using a pry bar. It will destroy basic hardware. My back door has an indentation where someone attempted (tested the door) to pry it open. They were unsuccessful. Minor indentation but obvious on the intent. There are many more ways to secure the doors. Use your imagination. Safe travels, Peace and Blessings

[@sarahyak_]

Thanks for the tips!

[@HeyItsMaori]

Thank you for the tips. I want to take a self defense class just to keep me safe in life.

[@darrensice1550]

One of the best thing you could buy for safety if you go hiking is a strong green laser light that has a been length of 10 miles because if people are out looking for you they are definitely going to see the laser beam just don’t leave it on the whole time turn it on for a minute and off then three quick on off then three slower on off and then three quick on off as this is Morse code SOS and police and search parties know this signal and if there’s a helicopter flying around near you point the laser in front of the helicopter they will definitely see it just don’t point it at the helicopter because pilots can receive damage to their eye sight and anyone scares you banging on your vehicle buy a really good torch that can reach about 150-300 feet in front of you and make sure they have a strobe so you shine it straight at the person in the face and they will lose sight for enough time you can start your car and get away

[@colleencook2619]

I know this has nothing to do with this video but, my cat keeps looking at my ceiling and the corners of my rooms on the ceiling and it’s weird, I read somewhere cats, and creatures in general can see spirits. Also in my bathroom there is a doorway to spirits because there is two mirrors facing one another. Long story short I think there are ghosts/spirits in my room! Sometimes when my light is on it flashes a bit and then stops. I think it’s a lightbulb deal but anyone have any conclusions/answers for me?

[@KAYKAY-tf3jz]

If you want them to leave you have to permanently cast them out in the name ofJESUS and they’ll leave but that’s if you want them to leave if u think their there might take a while sometimes less

[@colleencook2619]

Nothing completely paranormal has happened sooo, and I believe in a way they are not negative spirits. But ft so i’m going to get the sage, and hang a cross in my room because i am a christian and have one I got from being confirmed.

[@colleencook2619]

@@KAYKAY-tf3jz Thank you though🙏🙏(i can’t tell if this is a clap or prayer sign...I think of it as a prayer in this case lol)

[@seviregis7441]

Hiking alone or just with another girl can be more dangerous than being in your van. Best to go in a group where everyone has protection. Stay safe. Don’t even trust a “nice guy” you don’t know.

[@lutherthompson1714]

pepper spray is a GOOD for all kinds of event's

[@kurtcraig3421]

cant wait for more adventures

[@sarahyak_]

Thanks!

[@ftkinsella]

I was out one time and this guy showed up. I trusted him but my stomach said no way. I got this terrible feeling and then I farted. Hahahahaha Take Care young lady. Cheers!!!

[@mikvea3294]

should i take krav maga?

[@jillyfish72]

Yep! I want to too now 🙃

[@debpartin8737]

I have spray foam that sticks to skin and sprays 14 to 16 feet

[@KittyKat-vb1nd]

It's an open air mental ward. Do many truly unhinged people living there. Scary

[@tay6410]

Police don't really make towns safer....

[@aznravenflame]

Towns are small pocket of society/community. Police makes society safer. By extension they make towns safer.

[@tay6410]

@@aznravenflame i grew up in a racist small town. Trust. Cops in small towns tend to be v corrupt.

[@aznravenflame]

​@@tay6410 Yup, but if they dont make towns safer, do you think the town will be better off without their sheriff departments?

[@andreabrowne2171]

always be u

[@Lilxoxo777]

please do a video on all your clothes they are so cute!!!!

[@sarahyak_]

Thank you so much! I’m filming that soon :)

[@susanstebila8707]

U You should take a survival course you can learn that and Camping classes very valuable

[@sarahyak_]

Ooh I would love to!

[@katfore9585]

Hi, I had a quick question what do you hookup your electric stovetop to? Is it through your solar?

[@larrycates7655]

The don't tell location is your best defense, because their is always stalkers .

[@carolh9935]

What were they writing on your van?

[@jillyfish72]

Same thought

[@sarahyak_]

Not sure, it was hard to read and in Spanish!

[@carolinemaja2199]

Wash me

[@jjview1796]

Hi Sarah, a 3-5 pd fire extinguisher is also a good idea. Love your vids & adventures ))

[@sarahyak_]

Thanks for the tip! I already have one 😌

[@TheTruthteller9147]

Great video!, safety #1!

[@sarahyak_]

Thank you!

[@openspace9637]

What kind of notes did they leave on your van ?

[@sarahyak_]

It was hard to read and it was in Spanish so I’m not sure!

[@IvyManorMuse]

Rattlesnakes are VERY common in Utah. Some things to note: Dogs almost certainly will not survive their bite while most humans will. So get your dogs vaccinated with an anti venom, almost all vets have them. My moms dog got lunged at by one a hike close to our cabin (he was fine), but remember they can only strike at half their body height so just give them a distance of 5-10 feet and they will leave you alone. They are more scared of you than you are of them. It is also illegal to kill Rattlesnakes in Utah as they are a protected species (not that I think Sarah would ever try to do that, this is just general info for everyone). They help keep rodent population down. Be kind and don't fear too much!

[@maryhull3877]

Good stuff!!!!!!!

[@mysurlytrucker7510]

Well put 👏

[@KAYKAY-tf3jz]

You didn’t ask and probably don’t care but that gut feeling is God and God is JESUS thank you and that’s my un asked for 2 cents

[@sarahyak_]

Thank you for sharing! :) glad He had my back

[@amandaalmanza5403]

You should make a video of any paranormal things or stories youve experienced, or just spooky stuff hehe

[@sarahyak_]

Ooh thanks for the recommendation 😇

[@FYAAFNR]

One more safety item, a whistle, so you can be heard at a distance.

[@rj-vj8gr]

I've of truck droves blowing there airs at moose and the moose destroyed the truck.

[@sarahyak_]

Oh gosh...

[@roadsgt97]

Lol why do people think if they mention getting a gun its something kinda crazy im a retired police officer and i have had a types of guns from 10 years old till now from bb guns handguns shotguns and rifles None of my guns were evil they never shot anyone

[@sadidiker]

Great video..😙😙

[@susanstebila8707]

Try bear spray or pepper spray…or shocker

[@susanstebila8707]

Get the longest spray and the high-quality bear spray when you need it you need it be careful out there I wish you would hook up with some man that you guys could team team and travel together men are a great deterrent for problems

[@thinkabout602]

How about a small auxiliary phone charger ? 👌 ✨💚✨

[@barryking5993]

Most humans are good but the Warped ones are the most dangerous animals in the World!

[@VannersHEARTSMakeup]

Native police are police though. (Government official) Majority of them are usually white. Which reservation was this?

[@sarahyak_]

Oh I was told they could only give tickets to the native people?? and all they could do is call non-native police to come from a nearby town. Idk though, I never got pulled over.

[@lunaticplantlover]

There are no bad people, only hurt people. Some are so hurt they look bad even with a magnifying lens. This is my truth. One day I'll share it with you in person if I ever start living my vanlife dream and meet you on idk a beach to watch sunset together eating healthy vegan food, listening to our own music with so many friends and animals and plants and tears of joy

[@sarahyak_]

Thank you for sharing you’re truth 🤍 I would love to meet you one day, you sound lovely

[@VictoriaMaxima]

Sounds like a Ted Bundy pick up line to me- watch out for this one, Sarah.

[@terrywadkins2439]

Great tips even if you're a man because you never know just how crazy that person's going to be or how unbalanced the scenario.

[@jjview1796]

Hi

[@Xiallaci]

I like to take a small axe with me in nature. It's so useful in many situations. And also a full powerbank.

[@fredsmith2299]

Sarah get a cute little puppy ... dogs can hear more than us and are the best door alarm ever ... and if you really want protection get a Rottweiler ....

[@luisnarimatsu2220]

Ok pretty girl, wow you never cease to impress me. We should always hope for the best and prepare for the worse. I love your insight, your love, light and positive thoughts...hugs...143

[@sarahyak_]

Thank you!

[@greatcesarsghost]

He could have just been lost and here u are going beat some poor guy .. easy up 🙂

[@joaquinguillen3731]

You need a large dog and a gun to help protect you when traveling

[@barryking5993]

Get a Pup for your walks

[@jaylalove2ify]

Thank God, Single female Van living, always made me leary! It seems like you guys just live carefree! There are Bonofied Nuts out there, looking for Opportunities! God Bless you ALL!!

[@sarahyak_]

Thank you!

[@BochauiTay]

hi my dear friend!

[@ChrisW228]

“He didn’t say anything at all.” but a sentence later you went back into the van to “tell [your] friends what he said.” Very confused.

[@sarahyak_]

I meant to say *what he did* or *what had happened*