Solo Travel Safety Tips & Security Items for Van Life with a Dog

Van life does not have to be scary if you are SMART and PREPARED for anything that may get thrown your way. Here's what I do to protect myself, my van, and Rue while living full time on the road!
1:41 Safety tips for solo travelers
3:57 Keeping my dog safe in the van
7:11 Indoor van security items
11:24 Outdoor van security items
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Affiliate links to items mentioned in this video:
- Garmin Messenger: amzn.to/47Hfike
- ZeroBreeze Portable AC: amzn.to/45FXVhU
- AutoVox Outdoor Cameras: amzn.to/45KssLD
- SimpliSafe Security System: amzn.to/44umWeS
- The Wanderful window covers: shop.thewanderful.co/?ref=nom...
- Waggle Pet Monitor (60% off): bit.ly/3wPC2ks
- Steering Wheel Lock: amzn.to/3PcXRQn
- Additional locks (many options): amzn.to/3KXPvL8 | amzn.to/3KXnL9i | amzn.to/47IO1y1 | amzn.to/44unn90
- Motion lights: amzn.to/3KTesaw
- Harvest Hosts (15% off): www.harvest-hosts.com/Q6M3HD/...
Forgot to mention:
- Jump Starter: amzn.to/3oXIORj
- Air compressor
- First Aid Kit
- Smoke detector
- Fire extinguisher
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#vanlife #solotravel #solofemaletraveler

[@lindasteller]

Hey Sarah, one thing I think I will add to my van when it's built is security film on the windows. I occasionally watch another couple currently traveling in a van in South America, and they had someone try to break into their van during the night when they were sleeping in a parking lot. I can't remember what the man used, but it was some heavy object and he smashed at the window several times, thinking no one was inside. The window totally shattered, but did not cave in because of the security film on it. They were able to have the window replaced the next day and added the film again. Just an extra layer of protection! I'm making progress on clearing out the sticks and bricks so I can get into a Drifter Van. Happy travels!

[@dianadery5037]

I saw that video too. That film really worked.

[@opinionatedartist]

Yes great idea, we are going to add those too!

[@watcher9997]

If there is a bad accident and they need to break the window, the security film could be a problem.

[@vgh332]

@@watcher9997that makes me wonder if the glass is ever under great force and pressure like the vehicle crashing, flipping, or punctured by materials that firemen have, i wonder if it will then give. Im sure the companies that make this have some knowledge Id hope. If all fails, there are multiple doors throughout the van

[@lilyLily1824]

It’s 3M. I’m getting that for my van build!

[@cltinturkey]

Congratulations on your smart security and safety additions! I was worried about your pup, but it seems she has many fail safes. Here's a small tip from recent crimes in my neighborhood. Thieves were using a pinging device to open cars with key fobs. This means the owner had locked the car, put the fob in their house, and gone to sleep. Thieves used an electronic device outside to ping off the inside fob device, and then they could easily (without trace) open the car doors. Many people lost money, documents and other valuables from their cars, while all said "we locked the car, I'm sure". Police finally figured it out. The cheapest and easiest solution is to wrap your fob in a piece of aluminum foil while you're inside. It can easily be removed, while it blocks any electronic waves. Some people stick the fob inside a coffee can to block the waves, but the tinfoil is effective and costs less than 10 cents. It can be reused until the foil tears. Stay safe!

[@audreyd1003]

Thanks, for the heads up and the solution as well!

[@billiekennedy131]

Sarah, you are one smart lady. Also one more protection you have is God. Always include Him. Stay safe. 🙏🌹

[@delisaseale5881]

Good for you taking extra precautions to stay safe and sharing them with the community. I sometimes see van tours on here on KZbin where a single women puts a name on the outside of their van that indicates they’re a female van traveler. So unwise.

[@audreyd1003]

I appreciate all the safety technology (your Garmin could be a lifesaver too). Certainly having your dear companion, Rue. may cause thieves, etc., to think twice. Everything you've layered within and outside are well thought out safety measures. And, I would say the smartest thing is taking self-defense. I remember when I was younger and living in Chicago I came home one night after a meeting, I looked through the windows of the foyer not seeing anyone I walked in. Moments later someone had grabbed me from behind around the neck. I had a few seconds of realizing what was happening. But, because a few weeks prior I participated in a self-defense class - I was able to take action. Immediately, I did the 2 things they recommended: 1) take 2 of my fingers, reach back, and try to poke at their eyes. Bullseye! And, almost simultaneously, take the heel of your foot and stamp as hard as you can on the instep of their foot. My attacker screamed in pain (the eyes) and ran out. The police later found him hiding in the basement storage area of the apartment building. They said his intention was to rob me. It might not always work ... but it made the difference for me that night!!

[@NomadicSarah]

Woah, what an empowering story!!!! You go, girl!!!! 👏

[@audreyd1003]

@@NomadicSarah Thank you!

[@johnlanger2175]

For non lethal self defense I use bear claws, plastic for shredding meat. Does visible surface damage and the blood takes the fight out of them. They belong in kitchen but keep inside driver door for carjackers. Use on face, forehead, with as much force as you like. Less than ten bucks a pair, any store. I use matte black to match interior. Thery are most effective as well as bear spray, 10 percent not 5 in normal pepper spray. This stuff requires little strength, and is not recognized as a weapon.

[@garyjoaquin]

Thank for an outstanding, comprehensive, and thoughtful overview of security. Even brick and mortar homeowners like me can learn a lot from your example.

[@chuckfranklin3375]

Wow wish I had started this 25 years ago, This one post alone has enlightened me on so many different levels that I can't thank you enough. You go girl, you live life on your own terms and that right there is amazing.

[@NomadicSarah]

I'm so glad this was helpful! You are so welcome!!

[@kimkeever3692]

You are a safety master! I once saw a former "burgler" interviewed who admitted that when casing properties, the biggest deterrent is a dog! So, leaving "Rue signs" (a good reason to leave nose smears on the windows) is certainly a great idea!

[@smokey6885]

YOUR SITUATION AWARENESS AND RUE ARE PROBABLY YOUR GREATEST DEFENSE. YOU ARE PREPARED. AS SOMEONE 😂WHO DOES A LOT OF REMOTE CAMPING IN A CARGO CAMPER, I HAVE ENCOUNTERED ANIMALS, 2 &4 LEGGED, OUTSIDE THAT MADE ME UNCOMFORTABLE, MOST INSTANTS HITTING DOOR LOCK BUTTON ON KEY FOB WITH THE LIGHT FLASHING AND THE BEEP SCARED THE ANIMALS OFF, ONLY ONCE I HAD TO HIT THE PANIC BUTTON, THEY DEPARTED POST HAST. I HAVE OUTSIDE CAMERAS ALSO, I ENJOY WATCHING DEER AND OTHER WILD LIFE AT NIGHT. I HAVE FOUR DRIVEWAY WARNING DEVICES AND MOTION LIGHTS MAGNETIC ATTACHED ON THE FOUR SIDES, I KEEP THE SOUND ON LOW. LIKE YOU, I’M NOT SCARED, I JUST LIKE BEING AWARE AND PREPARED. SEE YOU DOWN THE ROAD.

[@johnj4264]

Sarah! I so hope you and Rue NEVER end up in a dangerous situation, but your amazing planning and foresight is so impressive and added insurance, if you will. I'm sure your family rests better knowing you are so aware of your surroundings and have so many safety tools in place. Love all the gadgets, too! Go Sarah and Rue, go!

[@htoddgriffin4787]

I've been all over the world........by myself. I've started multiple successful businesses..........by myself. I get the same questions from my friends about how I do it, and I honestly don't know how they do their thing, which usually involves sitting behind a desk 50 weeks a year, waiting patiently for their two week vacation back at the same beach they go to every year. Life is short and I'm going to have fun 50 weeks a year.

[@NomadicSarah]

AMEN!!! 🙌

[@michellecastaneda4104]

I do van life 100% a lone too. I feel safer on the road than I do at home. I think it's because if there is any problems I can just leave. I don't share where I am too much. I let them know what town I"m around but thats about it. I love it so much.

[@Lt184]

I ❤ you have thought very intensive on your security, though that club is truly a waste of money and a joke they are very easily over come. You should look into a kill switch for your van as well and some 3m security film on your windows, the film wont stop a motivated individual BUT what it does do is gives your plenty of warning/response time. Honestly security stickers, audio alarms and such mostly are for your own state of mind, like the old saying is locks, signs and such only keep honest folks honest. Those that mean your harm or want your things will not be deterred. And as you said it your best offense is use your common sense, learn NOT to ignore your inner voice, and those things that will slow them down giving you time to awaken and respond are the best, and be proficient with what ever choice of personal safety devices you choose…! Keep enjoying life and cant wait to see more of your travels / fun.

[@priceisright3004]

This is definitely the best safety measures I have seen implemented in a van home. Great job 👏

[@be.kind.to.animals]

Great video. Soooo glad that Rou has adjusted. 😊

[@jackrolfson312]

Out of all the security that you have, rue is the best one that you will ever have! Always look forward to your videos , Please stay healthy and safe until the next one.

[@Jules73572]

Great information, you got everything pretty much safe & secure. Thank you for sharing, your videos are beautiful!! Safe travels, God Bless 🙏🏻🇺🇸🏠

[@daisysiason8973]

Your van is so safe and I like it . That's the reality safety comes first and I agree with you.

[@watcher9997]

Wow it is a shame that the AC won't cool the van. Having all those hoses all over the van would drive me crazy. You're a good dog Mom.

[@tdiddle8950]

Settled people have a pretty much irrational fear about travel and adventure. It boils down to the fear of the unknown. I full-time traveled on foot or on a bicycle for over five years. I traveled in some pretty remote areas. Plus, I've done a lot of research and contemplation about security. People would ask me if I wasn't afraid of snakes (#1), bears, and pumas. I've never seen a puma, but I wish to. I always respond that the mosquito is by far the most fearsome animal in the woods. So, considering that I'm interested in fear as a philosophical issue, a couple of years ago, I wanted to understand the US mentality concerning terrorism on US soil. I decided to do a formal (in my way) research project of it. I decided to contrast the statistical probability of someone dying on US soil from a terrorist attack vs. the probability of being struck by lightening. Lo and behold, I found that people are significantly more at risk of lightening strike than terrorism in the US. And, I accounted for both Muslim and domestic terrorism. Therefore, I deemed that the fear that people in the US have of being in a terrorist attack is largely unfounded unless those people also spend a lot of time fearing lightening strikes. Fear of adventure and traveling is the same. Problems may occur, but in contrast, commuting every day on congested highways is also dangerous.

[@dwoodygura]

Really like your channel. I too am a medical imaging technologist. Proud of how you for taking all the safety measures. Rue is a love. Question: are you able to actually park the van at the medical facility during the day while you work? Guess you arrange that as part of your assignment planning.

[@judithcatlett8518]

I’m really glad to hear of all your safety precautions.

[@HeRo-qd6tk]

Great ideas ❤

[@lilivicordero8077]

Awesome video ❤stay safe

[@judya8044]

Great vlog thk u for all the info

[@turnbullstravels735]

Great advice…thank you!

[@roserocker62]

Hi Sarah . OUTSTANDING video full of tips on security for the solo female . Thank you for sharing all your knowledge . You surely are a huge help for those that are planning on venturing out solo. Thank you so much brave one. Be safe . 💞

[@TraderChick]

I was waiting to hear how she was doing!!!!!! So glad she’s more comfortable!! 🐶

[@tomassanesson902]

Awesome video

[@theonly1film]

welcome back with another great video i hope you have a great weekend stay safe

[@harriethunter8910]

Loved the video. Warm greetings from Australia.

[@sharonmansfield3053]

Great tips and I’m so happy Rue has adjusted. She is a beautiful girl!

[@aaronriedel5372]

Good video!

[@Doc1985]

Sarah, this is an excellent video! Your planning and experience really shows in your explanation and clarification of the functions and general equipment used for pretection and security.

[@dianepines9014]

New to your channel! Thanks for the great ideas!

[@carolechenowith900]

I go by myself most places as no one to do stuff with At 46 I flew to Australia...first time on a plane and they terrified me but did it anyway. Stayed with people I met on the net and also in a backpackers hotel when I went to Sydney from Melbourne. I say just do it otherwise you may never be able to do anything. I'm 70 in 2 days and now I may just live in a van too as I'll never own my small farm even though I've been here 30 yrs this year. Had to buy my x bf out after 8 yrs then more recently took care of my mom with dementia yard and had to modify the loan. I had 15 yrs to go in 2016. Now it won't be paid for til I'm 109. Didn't know they were going to add 30 yrs to the 15 I owed.

[@kimberlee2469]

Wow, what an informative video! I found your channel today and so happy i did!

[@Fogelmiser]

Rue sitting directly in front of the AC blower is me this summer!❤️

[@deea3586]

Sarah!!! Just subscribed! I love your videos and adventures with sweet Rue! I’ve always wanted to do what you are doing but afraid due to safety as a solo traveler so this was really informative. It’s really inspiring and motivating!

[@helenaheller8073]

You are a very smart young lady. Good luck on your adventures

[@pianogirl3870]

One of your most helpful videos and such a great topic!

[@grayfox9911]

Good tips! Rue is such a pretty girl!!

[@vgh332]

This is all so great Sarah!!! I will keep all of this in mind for my build out

[@edrumsas5420]

Great video. Great info. Be safe and aware. Trust your gut and those instincts

[@trevdevadventures]

Awesome thanks for sharing. 🔥🆙

[@kevinburke6446]

VERY IMPORTANT VIDEO. Wise words. Thank you.

[@jerryflynn9414]

Sarah, another great video. Stay safe. Back in Tampa we are dealing with hurricane Idalia now.

[@ruebennomura9143]

The best tip for van and your dog too like it

[@alanrobisonPD1960]

Love your channel Sarah, love the rig as well. Keep the videos coming, you present them so well just like a professional. This is Alan, GREETINGS from Riverside in Southern California.

[@brandyramos9372]

Thank you for your suggestion❤

[@thomasnie8151]

So happy to see a new vid from you! Dear Sarah, thank you so much for your great advices. How is Rue doing? She looks so gorgeous ❤❤❤

[@dallaswillard3155]

Wow seems like you have more than enough safety measures. Good for you . Love your information very helpful Thanks

[@dennisbravo2612]

Wow that's impressive I love your security measures you're tough lady

[@grayeagleswolves]

Hi Sarah Let me say first and for most Ty for my Solar Its great and 2nd the Video is great I love all the tips you gave every one of them are the best you did a great job to explain everything so NO one should be afraid Especially with Rue

[@tdiddle8950]

Going international is a typical thing with US travelers who start out on KZbin. As a travel and adventure nut, I follow lots of related YT channels, and one thing that I've seen is that there is a correlation between travelers getting out there, YT channel growth, and a broadening of horizons. I've watched YT travel hosts travel more and more broadly as they go along, and I've seen that they have an uncanny way of migrating to various travel systems per their need. What I mean by this is upgrading their RV and boat systems fairly frequently (considering how expensive such a thing is). ...I also follow people who cruise the world with their boats.

[@nadines7175]

Absolutely excellent video! I’ve just started watching you and I am so impressed by you and how much thought and care you put into everything and your pup (proud mamma of 3 Yorkies). I’m not sure how old you are, but I am probably old enough to be your mom, albeit a very young mom, lol. I am looking to build out a van so that I can travel up north to visit family more and then also have more freedom while I work remote to see more of the US (husband isn’t so fond of me doing it without him but supportive since he doesn’t work remote). I have done a lot of KZbin watching and I just found you and I’ve already learned extra things from your videos so thank you and I hope to be able to be confident and adventurous like you when I grow up. 😉 Have a super day!

[@bonnieson4989]

Stay safe out there! Like to see more adventures with u and Rue! So many successful channels where young women like yourself arent scared to travel on their own.

[@CM-zu3wo]

New sub here! Great video! I raised Huskies for 20 years, I have Samoyeds now! Loving your videos!

[@sunflower-wb3ug]

She is so pretty and brave!❤

[@dianagal7476]

Hi from Hungary:)you are such a smart and considerate person,love your videos really nice to watch them and listen to your calming voice,thank you for it! Keep up and lots of love to you and your pup!

[@Quinn-just4me]

Thanks so much for sharing. You have some great ideas & tips & it makes me a lot more confident about keeping me and my furry wingman safe, cool & happy. Being in Australia, it’s so hot & humid so keeping my furry wingman cool & comfy any time I’m not there is top of the list. Have you had any luck with those cooling mats? Anyway, stay safe & thank you again ❤

[@sandrap3047]

Rue is such a pretty girl! She's the cutest security guard I've ever seen! Great tips! Thanks for sharing!

[@MicheleMakinson]

This was a great help. Thank you for posting this. I have two big dogs traveling with me. I wish my van was a new Drifter Van, I don’t have everything to live off grid in mine. ❤

[@DeltaKnight]

If I ever end up doing this sort of thing, I might definitely look into that Autovox camera you mentioned. I'll have to add it to my Amazon wishlist/to buy list.

[@sjjs444]

I love this for you and Rue! I've had 4 Siberian Huskies. You are doing Rue a fantastic service having her travel with you! Husky's are so naturally curious and being in nature is totally their element. It makes me so happy to see a Husky living their best life! I don't care what anyone says, Husky's do make great guard dogs. No, they're not aggressive/aggressive guarders by nature. They're fantastic at alerting and without a doubt would do anything to protect their human if it came down to it. Safe and happy travels!

[@AustinsADV]

Hey Sarah, it sounds like you have a great security plan. Your van looks very stealth compared to most especially the drivers side. Good call on no stickers. It looks like you got some new wheels, looks great!

[@juliethielmann4408]

I love your van, and I’m glad Roo is doing better. I love your big screen, where and who put that up? We need to get one like that, since we also have a Ford Transit like yours. Enjoy your area that your working now and give Roo a hug for me ❤❤😉

[@pattigalindo7949]

You must be wealthy with the H in your name, My daughter is Sara. You appear smart, Good Luck! I am planning part time life in a B+ with my Beagle BFF. Good advise we are getting from you! Keep it up!!! I am retired, old female. Looking forward to adventures. What you using for refrigeration? My puppy is 12 weeks. Rue is a inspiration! Plan on following your tubes

[@brianfisher9315]

Its nice to be sponsored, good lluck.

[@JeepGurrrl]

You’re a bad ass!!🔥

[@neilarmitage6632]

Pepper spray. Great looking van also 👌

[@SecretWeaponShow]

😊

[@billl8275]

👍

[@scottroberts2893]

It looks like you are heading in the right direction. I am sure trying to find places to park is difficult. Would the hospital that you are working at allow for you to park on their property?

[@mzomy3992]

I used to do travel nursing - do some hospitals allow you to park in their parking lots, say if you did a shift and were too exhausted to drive off?

[@sharonbaker2775]

How do you lock the window where the AC ducts are? It appears that the window could easily be opened from the outside. I’m sure you have thought about it, since you have virtually thought of everything else.

[@edrl9842]

Hey, I'm looking into building a van. Do you not recommend this a/c? Does it give away that it's a van-home when you put the window blinds?

[@Michelle-bw1xg]

So glad Rue is adjusting better to the van! I'm starting to investigate safety as I ride public transit more; safety is important in or out of a van! R.A.D. Systems puts on great self defense courses for women, I paid $10.

[@rmangold]

Curious about that camera that Drifter set up for you. Do you have a link?

[@NomadicSarah]

Sure! amzn.to/45KssLD They currently are only compatible with 2 channels but I was told they will eventually come out with a 4 camera system!

[@rmangold]

Thanks Sarah! Will look into these for sure! Great content! Keep it coming and keep on trucking! (Stole that from Mav LOL)

[@christine9604frisco]

Some van nomads have said they can’t use SimplySafe because they have no permanent address for them to send police to if needed. Has that changed? Or is it a different “tier” of membership?

[@saritaschwedes8393]

also don’t think you have to be “friends” with everyone you see…🌸

[@cltinturkey]

Good point. Vital also is to trust your gut and your instincts. If something feels unsafe, get out and away immediately. Don't be afraid to make a stink, yell, fall to the ground, or do whatever it takes to call attention to the situation and allow you to get away.

[@barbarawalker3620]

🤘🤘👍👍❤💋

[@susangartman5252]

How do you get money to pay for everything ?

[@olbird7647]

She works as a travel radiographer (I think) travelling and working across the US. Also, I think she mentioned that her van build was part financed (i.e took out a loan).