Solo Female Vanlife | The Creepiest Experiences I've Had On The Road

[@rebak502]

I was just watching this, and someone started pounding on my front door and yelling "hey." I nearly jumped out of my skin. I looked out of my upstairs window, and it was some stranger standing on my front patio and holding a tablet. He glanced around, walked over to my front window, and then he looked in! He may be legit, but who looks in someone's window if they have a legitimate reason for being there? Then he walked around to the side of my house, where I have an obvious camera. He must have seen the camera bc he immediately left. You are so right. Trust your gut.

[@strangedaysdiaries]

Omg that’s crazy that happened literally as you’re watching this video!!

[@angelabraggs7614]

I feel better at a rest stop

[@angelabraggs7614]

Girl that's creepy if someone look around your home

[@The.Hawaiian.Kingdom]

Yeah that’s sketchy for sure. No one who has a legitimate reason for being there would be so intrusive, they can get fired for looking in your windows and walking around your house, it’s private property, only the electric company can do that, because they’re allowed to look for your meters, but their vehicles are clearly marked and they have a uniform. Sounds like he was scoping the home out to break in one day.

[@RustyX2010]

Did you rack one in the chamber?

[@michellebaughman7557]

I don’t know where you’re staying at, but I can say for sure that in most of the United States with very few exceptions rest stops are actually one of the least safe places for you to be hanging out especially ones that are off the freeway not out in the open Kind of secluded looking very dangerous places For some reason people think that should be a great place to park but a lot of creeps hang out at those places I’m telling you this because I’m a truck driver, have spent a lot of time out on the road. Stopping at truckstops and rest areas Being a single female, you need to take every single precaution possible to protect yourself. Be aware of your situation always wise up and be safe I’m sorry but life is not what it used to be. There are a lot of sketchy people that hang out just waiting for a victim to show up. God bless and keep you safe.❤

[@JJacks920]

Totally agree

[@KittyKat-vb1nd]

Common sense is not so common

[@Maayraa111]

This is really good advice, I think naive can get you harmed. Especially, at 600pm.

[@joshmcown6840]

@@michellebaughman7557 Hello, to introduce myself this is Susie in Florida Stay safe out there; Aug.16,Fri.3:41AM.2024 I'M 71, of course An empty nester, lol. Just bored wanting to experience something new. My children are married also one is widowed. They are busy with there life working. I do have a 3bd. 2bath hm. 2car garage. A mini van 2000 Nissan Quest, I call my van Little red. 🙆ah so just a thought Although need to save 💲 So maybe in 2025 I'd be able to try van camping Again stay safe 🙏🌌🇺🇸🌴🌅Fla.Susie🦉

[@kimdagnillo8246]

You gotta check these douche bags right away, that guy who just stepped into your van, you should have got up and yelled at the same time, “WTF DO YOU THINK YOU’RE DOING” you have got to take some self defense classes , get angry first, save the scared for later

[@KittyKat-vb1nd]

I'll put it this way. They don't play with sistas cause we don't play games. Run up on me and find out.

[@joshmcown6840]

Know back. In the day you could leave doors windows unlocked. Now days lock everything, you even have to lock your auto up even outside your hm. But one night i thought I'm tired of imprisoning in my own home lol so brilliant and brave me decided to leave the door unlocked before going to bed was watching TV; next thing I know this stranger opened my door walked in my house; did scare me but I didn't show Fear as when you show Fear then they think they have you. He this 23/25yr.young thought he was just walking in my home; told him he needed to leave now or I was calling the police. Longer story short he left🤦🙆 Needless to say I don't leave my home unlocked anymore. Although I've been curious about van camping. Ty y'all for reading, stay safe out there. Susie in Florida 🙏🇺🇸🦅7/26Fri./2024

[@Starswake]

Takes practice to not be nice.

[@FredCarpenter-b3t]

I know what this is... it's like when I'm with a group of men and women and the women start talking about how horrible men are and all these bad things they want to do to them and I'm just sitting there, listening, and notice that all the other men have gotten up and moved away from them, so I get up and join the men lest the women take out their aggressions on me. I say, "But I didn't do anything!" to which they reply, "Yes you did, you're a man!"

[@kimdagnillo8246]

@@FredCarpenter-b3t those are idiot females among us, the cliche bitches I like to call them. Cultish , mob mentality.

[@VernaSmith-f1y]

I had sold my daughters home and her husband had to be at his new job in Arizona where my daughter was planning meet up with him in a few days. My daughter said to me,mom would you spend the night with me. I have never been without my husband overnight ever. Of course I stayed. The phone had already been shut off,and I slept on the sofa,the home was an older large home. Most of everything had been packed up. My daughter was a sleep down the hall in their bedroom. She was already asleep. Ithe sofa was under the living room window. There was a large porch with stair leading up to it and the front door. I had just started to fall asleep when I heard their gate open. So I peaked under the blinds and could see a figure of a man ,he was jiggling the doorknob while pushing on the door. I noticed the broom laying on the floor. I picked up the broom and ramed the broom handle up against the door and as loud as I could,yelled "unless you want me to blow you off this porch,he turned and began running,that gate had a small piece of wire that poked out. He got his clothes caught on it.leaving a piece of shirt material. Thank God for the broom and that I scared him.

[@traceyarnaud8433]

Good for you Mama Bear!

[@daisythomas8354]

You go mama!!! Protecting yourself and your daughter!! Love to hear it❤

[@jodiegordon5559]

I was about to say "why couldn't you sleep with your daughter?!" But then, you wouldn't have been at the door to scare that guy off! You saved both your daughter and yourself! Thank you mama! I don't have any family anymore. I miss my mum the most! Xx

[@MegaBpop]

I hope your daughter has installed cameras and an alarm. Never know if that guy will be back. Also get a dog!

[@VernaSmith-f1y]

@MegaBpop She joined her husband in Arizona. The home was sold.

[@randizzleforshizzle9957]

I feel like it should be a known thing not to ask women if they live alone or are alone. Like it's creepy, at what day and age has it not been creepy? A few years ago I lived in a place downtown. It was an old house split into apartments. I had the back studio. I pulled into the driveway which was in the alley. And I was just playing on my phone for a little bit. I didn't notice a guy pulled up behind me in the alley and kind of blocked my truck in. He came up to my window and started asking me questions about my neighbors across the alley. I said I don't know because I didn't know them. Then he started asking me if I lived in the house that I was at. I said yeah. Then he asked if I was married and I said yeah. Then he asked if he was in the house and I said yeah. He creeped me out and I can't remember what else he asked me. He asked if I was scared. And by that point I definitely was. So I leaned down to get my stun gun. I was trying not to make it noticeable but I think he could tell I was grabbing for something and he ran back to his truck. After he took off I called my bf freaking out. While I was on the phone with him I saw the vehicle circle back around, so I hurried up and left because I didn't want to be stuck in my driveway again. I drove around till my bf got there and I packed a bag and stayed at his house for a few days. I got a gun after that. Idk what the guy was up to. Maybe he meant nothing, maybe he just had bad communication skills. Idk. I just feel like those are questions you don't ask a stranger.

[@strangedaysdiaries]

Okay wow that is terrifying! So sorry this happened to you! So glad you were okay. It doesn’t sound like that guy had good intentions at all wow :(

[@cfour7672]

Yeah. Don't tell a stranger anything

[@tdhawk167]

No, it wasn't because he had no skills...he was looking for a victim. You did the right thing staying at your bf

[@beverlymelton5701]

When strangers ask you weirdly intrusive questions just answer with "Why?" Your personal life is no one' s business. Believe me it will throw ppl off because now they you know they've overstepped propriety. Creepy!

[@Liberal.Linda.]

​@@beverlymelton5701 🎯 I ask, "Why do you want to know?" I try to never give answers, but only answer with questions. Took me DECADES to learn that and I still slip up sometimes. Its hard to unlearn the "be nice!" lessons society teaches us women from birth - to be accommodating and pliable and agreeable with whatever others want of us, want to know about us, or want us to do. Society makes us sitting ducks and I HATE IT.🤬

[@waffelsmellgood]

I was on a road trip with my husband. We were traveling in separate vehicles. I was in our Tesla charging the car in some southern state in a small city. There was this creepy guy hanging out of the hotel the charging station was next to. I was on the phone with my husband telling him about the man because he kept looking at me. And the he moseyed on over and my beloved giant German shepherd sleeping in the backseat popped her head up. The guy turned right back around to the hotel. He thought I was by myself.

[@donnadixon8065]

Please stop being nonchalant when you're in your van. Even if it SEEMS like a safe neighborhood, area, etc, don' t leave your doors open or yourself exposed to whatever.

[@KittyKat-vb1nd]

I'm always amazed he w clueless these women are and they're not living in Denmark but the violent mental hospital of the US and seem to have no awareness.

[@MelodyJuneInPa]

When I used to travel alone in my 20's and 30's in just a SUV doing a normal road trip not living in my vehicle, the only place I had creeps come up to and one follow me for miles trying to run me off the road was all in rest areas. Highway rest areas are dangerous. That said, I kept traveling and just got personal defensive weapons a cell phone and a CB radio since the time he tried to run me off the road was in an area with no cell service. With a CB you can alert truckers in the area who are usually ready to help and can relay with other truckers to get a call to the police. Staying safe while traveling in freedom.

[@GLING17]

For sure! My daughter was traveling alone back to her dorm one time and stopped at a rest stop. Some creepy guys were trying to scope her out and get close, I'm sure with bad intentions. She got back to her car safely but was afraid to pull out or they might have chased her and ran her off the road. Thank goodness a conservation officer pulled in and those creeps took off! Such a scary thing!

[@joshmcown6840]

Ah great idea. A CB radio; breaker Breaker 1/9 lol,Susie Q here In Fla. Y'all stay safe out there. Maybe one day i may try this. Now🤦71🙆🙏🇺🇸🦅 7/26 Fri.2024

[@POV18]

CB radio apps exist which are great for travelers!!!

[@katkohlerschwartz7386]

It never ceases to amaze me how bold men are.

[@gutsandgrittv5076]

There are many good men who protect women. I thank God for those men!

[@jdee8407]

They are bold because they know the cop wont to anything for breaking into a car. Its like that in SF and Oakland, other cities are starting to be the same. Those same politicians want to make the whole country like that.

[@FredCarpenter-b3t]

Got penis envy?

[@annem7806]

Quit being nice, be assertive. Wear a brass whistle to blow 3x short for danger. Women need to GTF over being nice. Clearly, loudly say step away from my door. Have key fob w you to set off your car alarm. You call the city public works dept w truck # & what he did while on the clock. Again, set off auto alarm like he triggered it by pulling on the doors.

[@cerin59]

spoken like someone who's never been a woman dealing with entitled psycho men, SOME OF WHOM, will instantly escalate 5 notches if a woman isn't NICE ENOUGH TO THEM. ME? I'm assertive, I don't take shit. And I've also seen how your advice just doesn't really fit the reality of many situations where a woman must decide EXTREMELY NUANCED guesses at her best chance for survival. Yes, sure, have some more assertive convo stoppers, but it's NOT AS SIMPLE AS YOU MAKE OUT. Believe it or not, but if you were a woman living in anywhere in the South especially, you'd quickly discover how VIOLENT men can get JUST from not having their asses kissed. It's entirely a different thing to almost suggest women don't even weight these things and just 'stop being nice and be assertive'. Ahole people are like wildlife. There's no point in being 'assertive' with a bear in your path, you effing leave. That's the way to understand the reality of most situations women experience.

[@missionaries7575]

So right

[@KittyKat-vb1nd]

These women live in the US of all places but act as if it's Switzerland

[@KittyKat-vb1nd]

​@user-wh5ir4fo4rI am a Caribbean woman. We don't have that problem. I will tell you off with a quickness.

[@Liberal.Linda.]

​@user-wh5ir4fo4r Because our patriachal society has trained us from birth to be agreeable, pliable, and "nice" - to not make anyone angry - to be victims. I freaking HATE IT. It's why most women are #TeamBear.

[@GLING17]

As a single female, beware rest stops and avoid them! My daughter had a creepy experience at one when she was driving back to her dorm one time. Thank goodness she got away unharmed but not everyone does. Stay safe and thank you for telling us about your creepy experiences!

[@danielhall-wl4ql]

rest stops are truly hunting grounds

[@Johnniebhoy83]

Rest stops in my country are pretty safe and everyone just minds their own business, but in larger countries like America or Australia they do seem to attract weirdos who approach you, I have heard some horror stories.

[@jenniferwutt4284]

Rest stops are notorious for sex trafficking. Many women have disappeared at rest stops. Glad you were hypervigilant and safe.

[@007nadineL]

Well... what happened? Jfc

[@traceyarnaud8433]

@@jenniferwutt4284I just read a book on how dangerous the rest stops in the US are. I have always used them when I traveled but I also have always had a large dog and needed to walk him. I never had an incident, but I’m sure the dog helped!

[@lisadaniels7873]

What you described with the Escalade has been covered on the news as one way that Humna Traffickers actually kidnaps women. They do exactly what you described - all the way to the open doors. They find a vulnerable female and (if they can get to her) manhandle her into the waiting vehicle!

[@sponzie1]

To think I thought America was safe,my goodness! Here in Africa even the police are afraid

[@Maria-t1e]

No rest stop for me 😮. Unless I'm with someone. I live in my van and I'd rather drive an hour or two until I find a better place to spend the night 😮

[@beverlybalius9303]

Dont stay in the woods alone. Its too isolated and too easy for others to get close

[@missionaries7575]

A KZbinr I recently watched said someone knocked loudly on her van middle of the night and middle of the woods

[@KittyKat-vb1nd]

​@@missionaries7575Common sense is not so common

[@CS-uc2oh]

Stop fearmongering. Millions do it every year. The issue is staying in and near cities and towns.

[@Whoisshe7575]

​@@CS-uc2ohall I'll say is when I was 12, my best friend's aunt who would solo hike the Appalachian Trail solo came back from a trip. Back then no one really had digital cameras yet, but disposables were out by then. She developed the film from the trip she took and one of the photos was a picture of her asleep in her tent

[@rottenfuckyou111]

​@@Whoisshe7575 what the actual fuck that is extremely insanely disturbing

[@shirleydelehanty3466]

Predators will scout you out to see if there is a male in the van. No woman is as strong as a man. I would suggest you get an electronic voice changer, so if you hear noises, you can yell in a male voice. I also suggest pepper spray which you can keep in your hand. Also think of bear spray. It's pepper spray that comes out like a cannon.

[@TA_33]

The voice changer is an incredibly good idea.

[@phoebevanderhorst7760]

So is a g u n.

[@cerin59]

great ideas, but it's just not true that all men are stronger than all women. preposterous. There are plenty of women who are stronger than plenty of men.

[@RustyX2010]

Or a Laser pointer, that'll freak anyone out!

[@jenniferruth812]

The voice changer is such a good tip!

[@KaltrinaDemiri]

I was parked at a place eating Panda Express once and I had a guy pull up into a spot near me and ask me if I was single and if I wanted to hook up with him. Guys can be really scary esp when you're a solo female traveling by yourself or parked at an area where it's just you. Anyway, stay safe girly.

[@marylee5293]

Oh my goodness, that's so scary and gross at the same time

[@gtron7692]

Thanks for sharing the scary stories. It's infuriating how some men think they have the right to invade a woman's space.

[@TA_33]

I love the way they think they have a chance just because a woman is single. Like it's not a choice.

[@lucybridle2375]

My sister and I had à scary experience very similar to the guy who asked if you were single. Two big men asking us to go with them. We were having a coffee and ignored them. They got so angry and calling us stuck up bitches. After that we felt trapped there BC we thought they might wait for us in the lot. Thankfully a cop walked in and we followef them out to our cat and got ba CV k on the highway. We weren't camping just on a long drive to Montreal from Toronto It was so scary.

[@FredCarpenter-b3t]

How are we supposed to invade a woman's space if we don't invade a woman's space and women won't invade our space because they expect men to make the first move? Try using real logic instead of chick logic.

[@tdhawk167]

Yes to bear spray and pepper spray, But- Wasp spray works well, too. And has the advantage of spraying out 20 ft

[@wesleyBringsOtter]

Greetings younglady, Im an old Native I live on the smallest rez in South Dakota. Im retired and darn it a health issue has me pinned down at home for the winter. Thankfully I have 4 black labs for company. Wow CA??? Im sorry I couldnt sleep a night there, lol. You be careful out there!! take care and best wishes. Ohan Mitakuyaoyasin (we are all related)

[@ceIIardoor]

What a sweet comment ❤

[@Stacey0909]

💝🙏💕

[@letsrock1729]

When that guy pretty much stepped right into your van, things could have gone so very wrong in a matter of seconds. If he'd been so inclined, he could have jumped inside the van with you and slammed the door shut behind him before you'd even had time to react. Please be careful. A couple of seconds really is all it takes.

[@donnajohnson9324]

I have travelled by myself for a few years, I am an older woman, and I found when I don't have a good guard dog, I seem to find creepy men I now have a gurd dog and they leave me alone 😂 love my dog ❤

[@TheresaPreston]

Note to self: get German shepherd if I want to van life

[@lydiacherrington-en6pr]

Perfect will be getting a dog when I start my bus life haha

[@susane9514]

You should have taken the license plate number on that Escalade and called it to 911. Your action may save someone’s life. If you see something, say something.

[@gracieg7601]

Hi I’m new to your channel. I’m an old widow and have been single for 23 yrs since I lost the love of my life. I lease a house from friin Texas and I’m not in the best of health. I now wish I had thought of buying a van after I sold my house. I could have had fun traveling while my health was still good. I am not in the best of health because of a back injury when I was in my 20s. I love the stories of van life and going all over. I used to travel allot and I had creepy stories about thst. You know I was a fairly young widow.

[@HisMirC]

As long as we have Jesus as our personally accepted Lord and Saviour and walk with Him, we can get through. Much love Gracie ❤

[@cerin59]

@@HisMirC right, so anyone else with other beliefs can just burn in hell for all you care. People like you.... never fail to amaze me how they can't just 'be Christlike' but insist on hanging over others' heads some dictate OR ELSE. You BARELY did a softened version of that. Shame on you. I don't think Jesus would go around doing IDOLATRY at people. Do you even hear yourself? What kind of Christ would ask people to be his tenants, his sharecroppers, his servants? BEST OF LUCK FINDING A TRUER OR AT LEAST NON OFFENSIVE RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD

[@Liberal.Linda.]

​@@HisMirC And lots of times when we DON'T have that, we will get through just fine.

[@stacyneel9721]

@@Liberal.Linda.without Jesus you have No peace. With Jesus you will know real peace ✌️ and be at peace. The Holy Spirit He sends those who believe in Him to guide and comfort.

[@Lindarianmusic]

Great video, Strange Days Diary: About the time, the guy pulled up and motioned for me to roll my window down, would have been about the time I put the van in gear and left.-Happy trails.😀

[@PulpParadise]

Exactly!

[@KittyKat-vb1nd]

You have common sense.

[@Johnniebhoy83]

Sometimes they'll take that as a sign to follow you down the road, depending on their intentions, as others have said above. It's creepy-assed.

[@jamieism]

One time while staying overnight in a rural overnight parking lot, I woke up around 2am to go to the bathroom. My bathroom is in the very back of my skoolie and as you’re sitting you can look through the back windows (which have reflective film). There was a guy sitting there in a car, HEADLIGHTS ON, around 6 feet from the back of the bus, staring at me. I watched him for half an hour, totally creeped out. I tried to sleep but couldn’t. He stayed there at least two more hours and then left super early in the morning 🥴 I didn’t leave, but I definitely texted multiple people my location and videos and photos of the car and its license plate.

[@strangedaysdiaries]

Omgggg that is terrifying! So glad nothing happened!

[@KittyKat-vb1nd]

You got lucky. Maybe it's my Caribbean upbringing but we don't chance danger

[@KittyKat-vb1nd]

​@@strangedaysdiaries I am always baffled why Americans are so unaware of danger and you all live in the most violent country in the Western world ! I'm Trini and grew up in England and we do not play games. Run up on me and you going to find out real quick.

[@ES-qu1jd]

I would've called the police.

[@SouthpawPatty]

I love the forest. My biggest fear sleeping in the forest is that a tree might fall on me in my sleep. I live in the Southern part of Oregon though. Most of the creepy people down here are in town. They're not in the woods. Portland and the Northern part of the state is very creepy though. I avoid going up there.

[@ChrisYEmpath]

i want to visit Portland, as I hear it's beautiful.. How are the people there creepy? What dothey do to get that title?

[@straytenwhitenormell7759]

NEVER roll down your window when a stranger approaches! Pull out and leave!!!

[@FredCarpenter-b3t]

"Pull out and leave" That's what I do if her husband arrives home unexpectedly.

[@TravelingGamer_]

Lol of course Google would recommend me the creeper video. Nice to get introduced to your channel, stay safe and happy travels 🤙🏾

[@tdhawk167]

Never roll down your window. You could have been pepper sprayed, or worse. Just pull away

[@Stacey0909]

🎯

[@cherrysnap134]

thank u, love the way you tell stories!! stay safe

[@Uthgardloki]

im in a 1992 chevy astro myself, started living in my van in december of last year. started in wv, been in maryland, virginia, tennasee, arkansas, oklahoma, about to hit arkansas again, and then head to the gulf. be safe out there. most truck stops have free overnight parking, and most rest stops you can rest for 8-10 hours . things ive picked up so far.

[@tylerjones2695]

What part of WV did you lv from in Dec?

[@Uthgardloki]

@@tylerjones2695 kanawha county. I'm back in wv for a couple months, medical necessity sadly,

[@cellestiall1]

I have quite a few scary solo female van life stories also one happened just a month ago but after 8 years of living in my vehicle I still love it !! Stay smart stay safe !

[@jipsiemune]

I do not live in a van and have experienced creepy events time and time again so yes you are correct in following the gutt feeling and always being aware cautious and ready to deal with the creepy moment's that WILL happen no matter where , how , or what you live 🕊️

[@ChristianCarnivore333]

Lol! That's a Tupperware mug, my parents who are in their 70's now, they had those in their camper bus in the 80's.

[@strangedaysdiaries]

I’d looove a whole collection because it’s literally the only mug that fits in my cup holder in the van haha! I love it!

[@Unknown5925-]

I used to sell Tupperware years ago. Now I go and hunt for them 😅. Wish I would have kept mine!!

[@livingmybestestlife]

You're really nice. I use to be really nice too but that crap got old. Now I have prepared phrases I use to end conversations: "Well, it's been nice talking to you but I have a call to make. Take care." "Thank you but no. Take care." "Well, I have a 1,000 things to do. See you around." "Sorry, I need to finish this project I'm doing. Take care." "Ugh. My anxiety is starting to peak. I'm going to let you go now. Take care. " After that, I use the broken record or I turn and leave. The broken record is just repeating the same thing over and over again, without adding anything the person can grab hold to. "No, I have to go. Take care." "Excuse me, I need to leave. Bye." It's also ok to say "I'm feeling a little crowded, can you give me some space or would you mind backing up some? Thanks." And my southern behind says all this with a smile in a firm tone a southern grandmother uses when she's told you for the last time and it's about to get ugly. It has worked 100% of the time and no one - man or woman - takes me hostage with their need to talk now.

[@strangedaysdiaries]

This is actually amazing advice, thank you!

[@KittyKat-vb1nd]

​@@strangedaysdiariesThat's too much. Just say get out of my face. Done.

[@Liberal.Linda.]

​@@KittyKat-vb1nd No, it's not. "Get out of my face" can and will make some jerks aggressive, then you have to deal with that. The other gives them way less to argue with. If they won't after you try to be nice, then yeah, amp it up. But trying calm and neutral but factual first is the best way.

[@Johnniebhoy83]

This is perfect and I'm glad you've perfected it. Great way to end unwanted conversations or one-way convos, even when you're approached by someone who you know means no harm at all. Even convos can be draining. We have a duty to ourselves to replenish our souls and if that includes cutting short a conversation, leaving an event or just heading home early from a day out with friends, so be it.

[@michelesammartano5897]

You are still very nice.

[@davidemm829]

I'm vanlifer, guy, I would never ever ask a female if she was single or pull up next to female, esp younger..noooo way..I get it, I have empathy..

[@davidemm829]

Glad I'm not female doing this vanlife, I have decent insight about me, tight boundaries and would never ever make anyone uncomfortable cause I know my own distance, verbal, behavioral boundaries..that often sociopathic behavior

[@davidemm829]

Very good vid..ty 😀

[@phuckindrummer5537]

Ask a male friend to yell into your cell phone audio recorder (" what the fuck do you want?) And ("get the fuck away from me now!") Once you have the two recordings, play them when needed. Loudly! Peace

[@loisaustin6200]

Then you have to worry about making the jerks mad and then no telling what they might do to get even. Might just make a bad situation even worse.

[@tundrawomansays694]

@@loisaustin6200And it may also save your azz.

[@karenlowes7802]

The minute that creepy dude was trying your door, you could've just leaned on your horn.

[@beverlybalius9303]

Wise up girl,,, you never answer personal questions,,, that shows weakness. You flat TELL THEM,,,, YOU DONT ANSWER STUPID QUESTIONS.

[@jennw6354]

I would not answer a man hostility like that unless I had to. If they are a true predator, it could trigger what they don't like about women, or women rejecting them. For me personally in such encounters, I try to not seem like I'm not stuck-up or disrespect them, as getting caught alone with a man who can over-power you physically in a alone place is dangerous. Be polite, and let them know I'm either involved or have chosen to be celibate. If they persist, I will tell them how God wouldn't want me to do this or that. They generally disengage and go on their way.

[@_Majoras]

@@jennw6354 as a guy i can confirm the god excuse works

[@PreppyPoly]

Gosh that’s disgusting that women have to even experience it and come up with such excuses!!! I am appalled, but you all are right.

[@t.k3025]

You don’t have to answer at all.

[@sallywilliams421]

Ask them questions ..keep asking until they leave

[@TillyToyTV]

Also don’t know if the Astro van has it but hitting the panic button on your key or honking the horn is a great way to scare off crooks/draw attention non-verbally, I don’t like to use my voice since it’s obviously female and outs me as a woman alone

[@darntootin2006]

The scariest people that I've encountered while camping are drunks and meth heads.

[@TA_33]

Plenty of both in Oregon as well and creeps and freaks.

[@carricos86]

I agree! Meth heads are sketchy asf and dangerous! You never know what they're going to do

[@debbieb5400]

They are unpredictable.

[@lifefordummies]

Not all men like "dolled" up women. I would find a hippie looking girl pumping gas in her cosey clothing attractive, but I don't think id be confident enough to shoot my shot while doing a garbage run. But I get it, in his head he is confident because he is unionized and has a good solid career... I work construction, and chuckle to myself when someone is new at being in charge and get to wear the white hard hat. Instantly the hat becomes a flex. Suddenly they are wearing their hard hat on break, going into stores with it on. When they are not wearing it, it is always visible like on their dashboard. :P

[@silverkiss37]

Me as a solo female van lifer: Gun. Cane Corso. NEVER rest stops. Wyze cameras. I live in Washington and have spent much time in Oregon. More than likely hunters in the forests at 2 am in either state. I actually live in the forest in a fifth wheel on property but I'm right outside of the Gifford Pinchot National forest and everyone up here hunts... Or goes to Oregon to hunt lol. Please never stay at rest stops in Oregon or Washington. Even if you stay inside, there are too many people targeted at rest stops. I used to live in my car and I stayed at a rest stop once for maybe four hours in broad daylight and had some weirdo watching me and trying to talk to me and he wouldn't leave me alone. Criminals know what to look for. They know when someone is living in their van just from what they see from the outside. Most are desperate enough to take risks. I'm glad you're safe. It wouldn't hurt to have a dog with a big bark lol.

[@strangedaysdiaries]

Thank you so much for your insight! You’re right that criminals KNOW a livaboard even if I don’t get out of the car.

[@silverkiss37]

@@strangedaysdiaries 💜

[@VirgoKat]

​@strangedaysdiaries I would have recordings of German Shepherd growling, barking etc, stay safe. Love n light from Western Australia 🦘

[@silverkiss37]

@@VirgoKat 😂😂 That's a great idea!! They wouldn't know the difference!

[@weekendnomad5038]

ER / hospital parking lots. No one will bother you. I used to fall asleep on my steering wheel after work no one bothered me 😂

[@danielhall-wl4ql]

my buddy was dead out in parking lot some lady opened the door and hit him with Narcan dose in the nose , funny stuff it was

[@Stacey0909]

​@@danielhall-wl4ql Death is funny to you?!?

[@BlackDragonStudios1]

Doesn't surprise me ur creepiest experience happened in Oakland the city has really become tormented by crime over the years.😊

[@traceyarnaud8433]

As women we were taught (okay, I’m 66 but not that much has changed) to be polite and accommodating. Rude in a situation like that is fine. I learned not to engage at all: no rolling down window, no chatting and no chance for him to decide you are his type! The occasional “good guy” who’s asking an honest question is way too rare.

[@hugsabbykissesloz5271]

Thank you for the great pointers! Try to purchase a bullhorn ($5 at Five and Below) they are great to deter in case a creeper decides to open your doors again.

[@strangedaysdiaries]

Actually this is such a good idea, thank you!

[@GrantTravels23]

Odds are pretty good the flashlights were some form of law enforcement. Most likely sheriff or game wardens. But always, always park facing out and put your car 🔑s in the same spot every single night no matter what. I highly recommend "carrying" and if nothing else at least carry weapons of opportunity, EA: bear spray, baseball batt, tire iron which are necessary items that can be turned into weapons if need be. All phones have to be able to connect to 911, (active phone service or not) so always carry an extra (old) phone kept charged & ready.

[@geegee9991]

You need to learn it's okay to speak up and say firmly, 'Get your foot out of my van. Leave me alone now.' Being polite is not going to get rid of any creep.

[@phuckindrummer5537]

I can guarantee you that those boys were not Jahova witness type innocent individuals, they were there to do bad things to innocent people, and then cry like babies once they have been arrested.

[@ChrisW228]

Which boys? I happened to see your comment early on but then no other stories obviously matched the comment, so now I’m just super curious. :)

[@Remianen]

Subscriber 96! Woo! Ground floor like Bitcoin in 2012! I would imagine things can get really hairy, given the nature of solo vanlife. You pretty much HAVE to keep your head on a swivel, which can be exhausting.

[@julianedeasis2628]

A. Bloody hand print?? Call the police give the license plate number & description. We have to stop being smiley and cutsie there are nuts jobs out there that aren't planning on playing nice with you.

[@helenpoulos6701]

Always lock your windows and doors. Stay safe and enjoy yourself

[@Sarah-xw2ff]

A lot of people say blowing an air horn should scare away many unpleasant people an animals. It's just so loud, no one will stay and bother you.

[@beverlymelton5701]

Yell at them. Women are trained to be nice and answer the questions. Do answer and dont be friendly when ppl overstep their boundaries whether it is male or female.

[@brettklingerman14]

just stumbed on this vidio. you seem so fun im in!! sorry bout creepy but u made it so fun. i always dreamed of van life!!rock on im in

[@Arkteckx]

Love that you’re doing YOU and enjoying yourself doing it! 😊 Absolutely worth the subscription to hear more about your adventures. If you’re ever over west by Vegas, it’s a little wild here, lol. 😂

[@1stJohn3.9-10]

It's sad, bec any women who is simply trying to drive from point A to point B can be approached by creeps.

[@jashannon]

I'm male and it happened 2 times to me in a stealth nv200 cargo van. I shouted expletives. One ran then drove away, that one was rummaging through my glove box as i had the passenger window open. The other walked then drove off so was probably a professional crook. You can't assume they are rapists unless they can see through the windows. In another city here in Southern California, I got a ticket overnight for having a "curtain over my window." Which when you think about it is dangerous for women for them to have that law. It's because they don't want homeless people living in their cars -- it's a nimby thing. If you shout they don't know if you have a gun so they will go away. If someone knocks, even police, remain quiet as if no one is inside. Because a friend would call you first. As it's illegal to sleep in a car in most cities. If the car is legally parked, the cop can't do anything. Unless cite a ticket for covered windows. $30 isn't a budget breaker. Incidentally, if you tell the cop you are too tired to drive, they have been checkmated if their body cam is recording. Unless you say it multiple times over different nights in the same month of course. Because driving when sleepy is more dangerous than driving drunk, and they should have been trained on that. Unless they want to lose their job if they force you to leave and you get in an accident.

[@gutsandgrittv5076]

Also theres been an increase in bi-curious males seeking male victims to fulfill their curiosities. Men need to be careful these days as well.

[@AC-kw4st]

There are far too many creeps out there. I have a concealed carry permit and when I am ready to travel I will have to make sure which states are ok to carry. It just isn’t safe out there!

[@romeseatingandconversation1447]

Hello, let’s get into this video! Blessings 💜

[@romeseatingandconversation1447]

This is great pointers! Thank you

[@donnamontewski103]

I have security bars with mosquito net on my side door in 2011 transit connect and I can lock it from inside. Sleep comfortably or have my dog securely in the van when shopping.

[@denniscoughlin7437]

It only takes that 1% of the time to lose everything! I suggest getting pepper spray or even better mace! Stay safe out there.

[@nicolerain3127]

Nice video! I'm glad you are safe! I wish you the absolute best....blessings!

[@oskaipwn]

It sounds like the garbage truck guy was a good dude. He shot his shot and gave you a respectful compliment and left when you told him you werent interested. It sounds like it was in a public place during the day. I mean it sounds like he followed the textbook on how to approach a woman and not be creepy.

[@strangedaysdiaries]

Totally agree! That’s why I said it’s more of a funny story than creepy but wanted to tell it nonetheless. Gotta love respectful garbage men 💪

[@kathrynbeetham5308]

Actually no, that's not acceptable. A woman should be able to go about her everyday life without being hit on by men. He may have been a "good" guy, but she had no way of knowing that, he could have been a rapist. One in four women are sexually assaulted at some point. If there was a barrel of 100 snakes two of which were poisonous, would you get in the barrel? No. Its not at all acceptable for a man to approach a woman at a gas station, what that is is harassment by a man who feels entitlement. Let's stop normalising this behaviour simply because it's normal in a dysfunctional mysoginistic culture.

[@RusVolvo]

Привет. Жить в машине наверное романтично, но, как мне думается, иметь свой дом или квартиру это тоже прекрасно. Я искренне желаю тебе удачи и добрых эмоций. С большим приветом из Великой России.

[@wendylynch6511]

Good you follow your intuition

[@MamaMailisha]

Thanks for sharing your stories. I am really psyched to know that there's someone like you who's in the SF Bay Area living this lifestyle. I'm working up the courage to take that jump myself. Once my girls go off to college… But one of the things I was thinking as I was watching your video was how annoying it is to have to shoo away so many men all the time. It's so creepy! It's really quite a burden and I love the men who do get it and feel our pain, but there are just waaaayyyyy too many creepy guys out there - on all "scales" of creepy. Yuck! We're so outnumbered, it feels like.

[@JL-mc2dx]

Put speakers on your van ant hook up a button that plays loud gunshots 😂

[@flawedexistence]

Stop being so innocent and nice. Don't hint. Straight out tell people what you mean. And get a firearm and learn how to use it. Be able to protect yourself.

[@orlandobabe]

I'll remember to put bolts on my doors during my construction on my van life.

[@Hiker3339]

Your stories are really concerning. You had yourself in some very vulnerable situations and you were very lucky! I hope you take better care of yourself now.

[@sherried79]

Men can be extremely creepy. I'm much older than you but I can share one experience from a bar. I hate being flirted with in a bar to begin with and this was almost 10 years ago. I was celebrating my daughter's 21st bday with her and a guy sits at our table and he was nice and polite but he wanted my number. I went off in him and I would say he never did that again..lol I'm like look, I am not here to flirt nor would I ever be but this young lady across from.me is my daughter so you are interrupting our celebration and I do not appreciate it at all. Women are not objects and there are better ways to show interest. It's so annoying and that's just the first thing that popped in my head but there are many more and it still happens. Happy trails!

[@strangedaysdiaries]

Omg that’s so creepy! Good for you for standing your ground and showing boundaries!

[@sherried79]

@@strangedaysdiaries yeah, I have no problem doing that at all and it's practically a reflex, but, it can get me in some sticky situations at times. Lol

[@jarrineshaw2144]

Suggestion: 1. Do not travel without some kind of lethal protection. I think that alone would add a level of piece of mind. 2. Go to Goodwill or some 2nd Hand Store and buy a pair of size 10 or bigger men’s boots and place outside just beneath your sliding door preferable on the running board. That would be a big deterrent- the bigger the boot size the better!

[@ChrisW228]

The guy who thought you were cute while pumping gas - some guys really do think that women out there all independent being natural and not giving a fig are really attractive. I would have handled it exactly the same as you did, but I understand why he was interested.

[@ruthrose2555]

I do know a couple of people who always stop and run to wake up when falling asleep when driving. But, you never know!

[@nicoleofnowhere8842]

Wow! Scary stories! Gotta love the thumbnail you did, though. :D

[@strangedaysdiaries]

hehe

[@sashawerner2829]

Yikes!! As an Oregon girly, I am SO sorry so many of your creepy stories take place in Oregon!! 😭Safe and wonderful future travels!

[@FredCarpenter-b3t]

I consider everyone creepy, which is why I stay inside, rarely go anywhere, and when I do, always wear a happy, smiling mask and pretend that everything is "just fine."

[@JJacks920]

I wouldn't stay in rest areas if you can help it. Those are a serial killers hunting grounds. Creepy...

[@ConcerningTheTimes]

Never go to rest stops alone; they are creepy & dangerous. I just saw a story about an older couple killed at a Nebraska rest stop by their RV. I'm a guy, and these stories make me nervous. Always carry a little friend. Be safe and God bless.

[@SusanBishop555]

You should have a recording always ready to play of a large dog growling or barking or a big mans deep voice. Or a siren. Or a 12 gauge pump shotgun noise. That usually works. LOL

[@baypressbuzz]

Hi Aja, I just came across your channel, this is the first video I watched and omg girl, ya that is some crazy stuff. I know how scary it is can, heck I have traveled to Ohio by myself from Texas, back and forth over the years and stopping for gas can be scary especially in Dallas lol so when I traveled I always gas up so I can by-pass the DFW and try to fill up along the highway in busy popular areas that has always worked best for me.

[@sandramayes8679]

I think your cup is Tupperware, the lid looks like there trademark style... I'd love to have it!

[@Zanniroxwell]

Omg imagine being stalked late at night at a rest stop in the middle of nowhere ..just because ya had to go.. that's the stuff nightmares are made of!

[@angelabraggs7614]

I will never ever be by myself. The world is crazy with crazy peoples watching

[@flawedexistence]

I am a 61 year old woman who is always alone when I'm not at work. I'm happiest when I'm by myself. You cannot live your life afraid of everything. But you can live your life with the tools and ability to defend yourself. Learn the skills you need to feel safe. Buy the tools and learn how to use them. And live your best life. I refuse to be afraid of life.

[@Debrasvantasticjourney]

I was stealth camping in Wyoming and I woke up the next morning and there were handprints all around my van……all over the windows, door handles, sides and yes, even the windshield. Weird.

[@strangedaysdiaries]

Oh wow 😦 that’s terrifying

[@briannah808]

Travel on, sis, and good luck to you on all your ventures and travels. I love solo travel and camping myself, and AZ is the best place ever because of all the types of forests, terrain and even the deserts are the greatest and TONS of FREE spots in allllll the wonderful places. I just found ya, so IDK if u have been there. I subscribed and liked, too. I wish u well ,and u seem like a fun person to hang with. UMMM just noticed u hace a longboard skateboard over there, ME TOO! lol

[@strangedaysdiaries]

I’m obsessedddd with the desert! Can’t wait to get back out there, especially Arizona! Safe travels to you too!

[@seanhammer6296]

I have 10 acres in the mountains in New Mexico if any van dwellers are out that way and want or need a safe place to chill. I've been a van dweller for 12 years now. Get in touch. Cheers

[@multiverse-rc]

be safe and get a byrna. CARRY ON GREAT CHANNEL great camp channel..

[@beautifuldreamer3991]

Sweetheart, creeps don't take " hints" you have to be direct. Tell them flat out,I'm not interested,I don't like what you are doing. You Will stop and you Will leave now, no you cannot have my number and you will take no for an answer. Not,would you please, it's...you will.

[@heide-raquelfuss5580]

This phrases do not work. In contrary. Do not talk in a van as a woman. You talking back only makes them know you are a woman and alone.

[@JayGee-ti7oe]

Young lady - NEVER tell anyone [ besides family members ] where you are or going. That's the No.1 rule for single van life.

[@Improv16]

Men are so simple. Once i woke up to my dog needing to use the bathroom i had to take him on a leash because we didnt havw a fenced yard ao i got up. (Its daylight af) my hair is a mess eyes swollwn from sleep. Hardly able to open because its so bright out. And i have fur all over my clothes because it was summer and my dog was an amerixan eskimo and i had on black. But that did not stop a man from hitting on me while my dog was taking a 💩

[@mommy6671]

There is a handprint sticker of a bloody hand that looks very real. I'm sorry those things happened to you.

[@tdhawk167]

Yeah, no one walks around a parking lot like that unless they were looking to do no good

[@ThatDiecastGuy69]

statistically a person will meet 35 serial killers in their lifetime and at any given time there are 25-50 serial killers in America. Those fun facts being said be aware, know the laws where you are for self protection and always have a game plan, also never believe you are stronger than whoever is about to be a problem, plan accordingly

[@danlouie352]

Highly doubt your statics. Serial killers are very rare.

[@tammycavender4623]

I have been on this planet for 58 years this year and have never met a serial killer in person. So I say you are wrong.

[@danlouie352]

@@tammycavender4623 looked at the statics. Its .0002645 something. Maybe we just stumbled upon a serial killer in this comment section. He seems to encounter alot of serial killers in his life

[@Galen-864]

😳

[@loisaustin6200]

@@tammycavender4623 I'm 85 and to my knowledge have never met a serial killer, however, I sure have met a truckload of sex maniacs though.

[@ChrisW228]

The one where four people hop out of an Escalade… obviously, you only give the most basic details and I’m filling in MANY blanks in my mind, but my edited picture had me wondering if it was plain clothes cops or even FBI or something looking for a high profile criminal they thought was trying to leave the country or something like that. As your story went on, I realized the people would have been dirty, skanky, in ratty clothes or whatever, but thought my initial mental picture was funny.

[@Postitnews2024]

Good video, and it is an eye opener on some of the strange things out there. Please be safe and alert on your travels, there are some real nut jobs out there.

[@lilyLily1824]

I love your stories. I’m going to be solo van life soon too!

[@louscannon7493]

Rest stops are magnets for all kinds of miscreants...

[@SeanCle]

I can’t believe someone tried my doors ???? It’s Oakland !! and you are lucky he ran