Stealth Camping in the City | We’re the Russos Camper Van Life S1:E13

[@Weretherussos]

Watch Episode 14: goo.gl/ZUnUa6 Van Life FAQ -> weretherussos.com/camper-van-life-faq/

[@TheGrowGeek]

we've done it a bunch of times, we use Google Maps - street view to scope out potential streets before hand save us driving around looking for a spot this has worked out well for us over the years and saved us a bunch of money

[@Nunyabizn3ss]

Good idea to set up for bed away from your parking site, get there late, leave early get set for the day somewhere else.

[@smitrome6271]

Yes ,No

[@MultiRabe]

Yes! I did it it the 90's, when it wasn't so "chic?" to do it! Never got that knock on the door tho, bec I was always so uber careful about the locations I chose! I envy you three right now lol!

[@DevonMcGettrick]

My wife and I have a converted Ford E350 cargo van and we LOVE stealth camping!!

[@WideWorldofTrains]

Your Dog is the real winner here, he gets to be with you guys 24/7 and thats every Dogs dream

[@Tedterranova]

That time lapse at 6:30 was amazing. It looked like water, not clouds going over the mountains. Also, nice shot of the camper reflecting in that building's window as you passed. Clever and creative way to get a shot like that.

[@Weretherussos]

Thanks Ted!

[@CrusaderforChrist-Channel]

We're the Russos-Hi Russos! Can I ask how long is your van in feet?

[@cjolley9431]

I am an American living in Kuwait, and just started watching your show this week. It is great and I enjoy the mix of technical information and the sights of your adventure. Thank you for sharing!

[@kendclife7913]

I'm impressed by your boondocking abilities. So many other RV KZbinrs were not able to do that. Your newer van and it's clean non-camper looks, really helps a lot. This is how I imagined some of your adventures to be. Thanks again for sharing!

[@Weretherussos]

+RV Ken Living Free you're welcome Ken!

[@MovingForwardAdventures]

That something so cool about the scene where you guys are in the parking lot cooking and enjoying your meal while there is all that hustle and bus tle going on around you. Love it!! 2 nights ago there was no room for us a rest area wish we could say that was the only time that has happened lol. Take care guys and safe travels!!

[@ronhowes7948]

Leo greeting the other dog brought back memories. When our youngest daughter, Sarah, was about 4, friends came over and brought their dog. Our dog and their dog proceeded to check each other out, causing some embarrassment. Sarah jumped right in to explain things to the adults: " They're just saying hello .. People shake hands! "

[@Weretherussos]

lol...that's pretty funny!

[@KevinTumlinson]

Kara and I have stopped and stayed at some gorgeous rest stops in Texas and Colorado. Louisiana also has some nice ones, depending on where you are in the state. The stops in Colorado were cool because a lot of them had been tricked out as actual tourist destinations, with little vignettes and videos giving some history of the area. Kara and I have some photos of ourselves at some of these, and they were great fun. Having vending machines and coffee machines didn't hurt, either. One thing I love about your van, and you're going to hit on this in the next video: It's a heck of a lot easier to do things like wash it. I love the idea of being able to park in regular parking spots, too. Is it too long for a standard spot? That was one of the problems Kara and I bumped into when we looked into one.

[@richardsternberg2542]

Have been living in RVs since 1980 ( I'm 75 yrs. old ). Think I will continue until ???... I hiked Mt. Tam. many years ago & started jogging down...... the sensation of wind in my face & feeling like a deer got me hooked on the running experience ! As they say " Nothing runs like a Deer " ! Thanks for the great video, folks !

[@gailgrimble2190]

I've walked across that bridge multiple times - different trips. LOVE San Fran!

[@annestauffer9579]

Hey guys, nice to see your footage of my home territory! The marine layer going over the hills is so beautiful. As to the $5 toll, it's just part of life, necessary to move around this amazing place.

[@John-hw3ds]

Nice, Golden Gate Bridge footage. I worked at the Coast Guard station at the bottom of the hill from where you were parked.

[@Weretherussos]

+John G oh very cool and that you for your service John!

[@RobLong4]

Hey guys, long post alert...lol Great job with these videos! We've watched most all of them...we love how you two seem genuine and really down to earth! We love that about you! And it's awesome that you share lots of recipes...my wife and I try to eat healthy so you've given us some great ideas :-) In fact you've given us a lot of good information! We are also RVers (we have a 5th wheel) and recently retired so we love the details about campgrounds and the different regions you visit! I'm making copious notes...lol We're in Atlantic Canada and I think you really should consider coming to Canada's Maritimes Provinces (here on the east coast) at some point! You guys would love it here, so much to see and do...an outdoor enthusiast mecca! Here are some highlights in case you venture up this way... New Brunswick has incredible scenery along the Saint John river valley with the river emptying the world famous Bay of Fundy right here in our hometown of Saint John. The Bay of Fundy actually appears in the Guinness Book of World Records as having the greatest vertical tidal range in the world! Also to be found here in Saint John is Canada's largest urban park - Rockwood Park! Hiking trails, cycling trails, swimming and fishing galore! Saint John is actually Canada's first incorporated city and has an amazing past. Founded by the United Empire Loyalists - people who felt such a strong loyalty to Britain, they left the U.S. during the American Revolution and headed north to the British territory of Canada! As far as national parks, we have one close to Saint John - Fundy National Park. Beautiful natural beauty abounds in Fundy! In Nova Scotia, a must see is the world famous Cabot Trail scenic drive that winds around the perimeter of Cape Breton's highlands, overlooking cliffs and the infamous North Atlantic Ocean. As well, the most photographed lighthouse in the world can be found in NS, located in a picturesque fishing village known as Peggy's Cove. Last but not least is Prince Edward Island. This is where Canada began. Lots of history to discover here! Also, PEI is noted for it's amazing scenery - around each corner and over each hill another picture perfect scene unfolds. You really should come to Atlantic Canada...you won't be disappointed :-) Rob Saint John, NB

[@kimberlyweese8183]

We have boondocked overnight several times going up and down I-5. We have never been asked to leave even though it's posted 8 hours.

[@lobosolitario-j4c]

When I was a kid driving across the Golden Gate was a quarter. they even had a thing called a "hopper" and you could toss your quarter into the hopper almost without stopping. And they said when the bridge was paid off there wouldn't be any more toll! Hmmmm

[@bonniepwtf]

Enjoyed this so much. Live in Green Bay now but used 2 live in California. San Francisco was home for awhile & loved going to Mount Tam. Stay safe.

[@dreamingonmelrosestreet1362]

You guys are brave to open your life up and let people share the adventure. Ignore some of the comments on here. Some people just make comments without giving it careful thought. Make the video how you want to make them. Its your channel and there is no way to please everyone. Oh and I have a GOOD FEELING that your are far happier than living the rat race. I wish you both health and success!!!

[@erehm]

Bravo! Really nice time-lapse of the marine layer from Mt. Tamalpais. Yes, air acts like a fluid!

[@Weretherussos]

+Eric Rehm Thanks Eric. That was a really fun hike.

[@harmvissers3353]

I'm planning on converting a van myself after i finished my photography study, i really love this video!

[@vickinewton1419]

Gosh, you were both here in my little town, Corte Madera, and I MISSED you! So sorry. We have a Sportsmobile and would have loved to have met you and to have seen your Hymer ! We very much want to do some long term vanning in the near future. Thanks so much for your great videos ! Happy travels and keep one keepin' on!

[@Weretherussos]

We would have loved to have met up! We did meet Steve though in his white SMB! Interesting guy and fun little town!

[@lorenl9262]

Thank you for the awesome video as I grew up in the Bay Area and I recognized all the places that you visited!! :)

[@Weretherussos]

You’re welcome!

[@markreynolds3850]

Thanks for sharing this video, very interesting about performance of the pro master.

[@joycebarnett3954]

Liked this video. Interesting to see you stealth camp in CA. It makes a difference in the kind of rig that one has. Love Leo. He is a great dog and sure loves to camp

[@Class_C_Explorers]

I would be glad to have that 11.5 MPG you got through S.F. in our Class C. We've boondocked a lot but most city streets a van could park overnight we wouldn't be able to get away with it, especially in California. Your van blends in well enough to make it possible to park on the street overnight but hopefully the parking patrol won't scrutinize it too much. My guess is they probably ask people to leave who have older worn out looking vans more then people with newer vans.

[@marlenapeg4121]

Nice video! Seeing Kate cooking, I was wondering if she is going to do anymore of her cooking videos! I always liked those! Would be very interested to see how you manage in your small space. Happy travels!

[@Weretherussos]

We're not planning on doing any more specific cooking videos...but we do post the recipes on our Patreon page and may post a cooking video or two over there at some point. patreon.com/weretherussos

[@arnoldandjosieespinoza4405]

Hey Kait, Joe and Leo. Another fine piece of work on your latest VLOG. Keep them coming. Upon crossing the GG bridge, you mentioned, "ever walked it?" Well my wife and I did back in '09 after having rented bikes at Fishermans Wharf. The attendee kept saying, " oh the bridge is just right there, short ride." Well not one of my smartest ideas as we rode from the pier to GG bridge, walked across then braved traffic down to Sausalito where we paid an outrageous price for a tuna sandwich. 😭 It was a quiet afternoon if you catch my drift. 😂😂. The rest of our trip was awesome even made it to Yosemite. Thx for the update, big fans Arnold and Josie

[@LA-oe6tz]

Just an FYI, when you cross the Golden Gate Bridge, they take a pic of your license plate and you'll get a toll bill in the U.S. mail. That's how SF rolls...lol. Happened to me last month. We love your channel!

[@geebonzo]

I recently drove a Promaster and I like it. Whether I can make a camper, DIY, and have it work, I'm not sure. But it's a decent size and it's not much of an effort to drive. The driver is high up, which is pretty cool. I like the Travato 59k. The Promaster seems a little pricey for what it is, just as a van. I think this is a good video because it shows what you can do with urban camping. I wouldn't call it stealth, since you are in an RV and that's pretty obvious. There are some controversies about RV's parked on the street in the bay area. I have a trailer, now, and would not really do this. Even a small trailer is 40 feet of fun. Thanks for the info. I'm not sure I would find camping along those streets completely stress free. It would be nice if they made it clear it was "OK". Is it 'getting away with something' or is it using a shared community resource?

[@jay5729]

Looks like you passed right by us here in Tracy, although we were down camping in Kings Canyon.

[@Jside68]

With your previous video I discovered overnight oats! Thank you so much for that! I like coming back from work every Wednesday and watching your new Vids.

[@Weretherussos]

You're very welcome Jeremy, glad to hear you enjoyed them!

[@Jside68]

So...on the subject of overnight oats, what are your best recipe?

[@LisaMarli]

I've heard from the CHP, the 8 hours at a rest stop is loosely enforced. They are looking for Squatters. More than 12 hours will probably get you noticed. Treat it like stealth camping on the interstate and you should be fine. Have a good trip.

[@rhch]

Absolutely love Russo’s.... can’t wait until next video!

[@markreynolds3850]

Thank you so much for making your videos, I enjoy your adventures. I find your adventures interesting and enjoyable..

[@kiwicomposer]

One of my favourite places in the San Fran Bay area is over the bridge.. A nice bay call Tiburon . great food places on jetties over the water and fabulous views of San Fran itself over the bay. Awesome lake in teh middle wih a walk around etc,. Wudl probably make a fabulous stealth location. When I travel to USA and up to San Fran I almost always make a visit there.

[@edbenson98]

I loved the way the clouds or fog rolled in over the hills! I'm really enjoying your videos!

[@energymaven]

We were hoping to be able to check out a Hymer before making our final decision on a Class B, but it was not to be. We'll take ownership of a 2018 Pleasureway this week.

[@maureenthefirst1]

I am really getting motivated to go for this lifestyle. I love your camper van. I used to think a Class c was what I wanted but no more. I can see that you have everything you need and can be free to go to many more places with the Class B and the AKTIV takes the cake it seems.

[@meteor109]

You guys do a very good job with your videos... always a pleasure to watch. Thanks! (nice looking' pooch, too)

[@Weretherussos]

Thanks Rick!

[@DnSAdventures]

If we didn't have our greyhound, this camper van seems like a great alternative to our small trailer :)

[@Graeme408]

If you choose to come to the east coast it is toll heaven. I think It cost us 45.00 to go the NYC. I-95 in Maryland, The Delaware Bay Bridge, New Jersey Turnpike and the bridges into New York all have tolls $$$.

[@Weretherussos]

We've been through Florida and managed to avoid all of the tolls...we've heard that can be near impossible the further north we go on the East Coast.

[@bobshaw4063]

I know it's crazy up there with tolls.My family and I use to live up in New York.

[@dogotek2]

John Lowe, Photographist yeah. The tolls in NY and NJ are a form of extortion.

[@yeah4me2]

Oklahoma too!

[@RobLong4]

We're in Atlantic Canada and whenever we travel up and down the east coast we use I-84 to skip a lot of the tolls.. We bypass Boston, NYC, Delaware Bay Bridge, NJ, DC.

[@Lurker1979]

With an 8 hour limit. You still could get a good nap in the middle of the day. Then push forward rested.

[@jamielacy8552]

We just left San Francisco 2 weeks ago! Its so beautiful there...

[@tippersmami]

ty for viewing the bay. i always love to see those pretty views!

[@lelandlee5008]

I TRULY TRULY ENJOYED YOUR VIDEO AND LEO THANK GOD FOR YOU TUBE...

[@yisonghuang9350]

nice video. I really enjoy watching it.

[@deniseockey6204]

You went right by my house in Point Richmond. You also went to all of my stomping grounds. Yes, Vik's is a great Indian food place. The $% toll was nothing. Just do't go at rush hour times, especially across the GG Bridge. They change bridge tolls often. Check 511.org next time for info.

[@tyrennand3180]

Is it good on gas

[@bethanybaker7791]

I've been watching you since you got the van...I'm just starting a family with a 3yo and a new baby...but you guys have me already fantasizing about when they are grown and out and me and the husband can get one of these!

[@Weretherussos]

That's awesome Bethany! You can always get one and take the kids camping...then full time in it when they're grown up!

[@gailgale5021]

That sf rv park u stayed by ocean was in pacifica.Up hill from there is my fav spot rockaway beach.nicks cafe with beach on both sides of lot.my black lab loved to body surf thhere,perfect sunset spot.maybe next time.im 4 th generation cali girl and never been to yosemite.Im guessing ur from so.cal?

[@edframbes5296]

Enjoy watching your adventures. Thanks, for sharing your experiences.

[@markreynolds3850]

Thanks for sharing this video.

[@Weretherussos]

My pleasure

[@OzarkSoaper]

love the time lapse on the clouds

[@gruivis]

Seems like the camper van has been an excellent migration for you guys. I'm curious as to your thoughts on how this can would have changed your experience at the beginning of your RV lifestyle. Thanks for sharing your journey!

[@delraydad7516]

Seriously stealthy bro - love how you eat by the Golden gate Bridge and not one person even knew you were in there. You got everyone fooled

[@gilbeavers03]

Yes, I would definitely Stealth Camp, You get to see something new every morning, pretty cool. What camera do you guys use to shoot your videos, great quality you guys always have great quality audio as well Makes the videos enjoyable to watch and listen....and great editing.

[@tammyhuie]

OMG! I knew that was Sausalito! I would so love to see it again! Beautiful!

[@jackmason7518]

San Francisco is great, I wish I was there. Jack

[@Weretherussos]

It's certainly a great area to visit.

[@bobshaw4063]

Jack I agree . I love San Francisco . It's beautiful there. It's one of my favorite cities.

[@Abundanthealthcoach]

Oh how delightful a hybrid diesel 4x4 pro master would be.

[@TheAdadadada]

Loads of people stealth camp Key West! It's getting harder and harder to do there though! Try it on a King Tide!

[@toddramsay977]

Between you and KZbin's channel Carey on Vagabond, who fulltime in a Zion SRT, you got me sold on getting Roadtrek soon. Probably either the Zion or 210 popular. Great video!

[@barbhk2007]

So enjoy your journey and vids...and LOVE Leo! :) Thanks for taking me with you.

[@panavadeetatrow6864]

come across your old video on cost to live in an RV full time when you had your class A. Now that you have this class B. Is your expense looking better than before? My husband and I waiting for our class B to deliver and thinking about RV full time.Would be great if you could share us your monthly expense cost? thank you!

[@Weretherussos]

Sure...check out our new cost of living posts: weretherussos.com/camper-van-life-costs-june-2017/

[@panavadeetatrow6864]

Thank you so much! we will continue to watch your video and learn more RV living from you guys! Go Packers!!! like to hear a story behind Packers shirt you wear Kait!

[@Weretherussos]

#GOPACKGO!!! We made a video about our trip to Green Bay if you haven't checked it out yet it's here kzbin.info/www/bejne/q3vTkmtsedRghtU

[@judyhobday5334]

I do not understand the thumb down by so many. Your videos are great and love Leo, a great companion.

[@roryroberts3787]

The thumbs down isn't for the Russo's themselves but more then likely the subject of stealth camping....... It may be great for RV'ers, buy not for some homeowners who have had bad experiences with other stealth campers or with the homeless and they are lumping everybody into the same group.......

[@Ceehayseeker]

Love the time lapse...another great video xoxo

[@billysmether6237]

Yea San Francisco has $5.00 dollar toll when you enter via Bay Area Bridges but no charge when you leave.

[@sungkim6923]

Wow you stop by my hometown. I live Mill Valley. Great video. Thanks for sharing.

[@Weretherussos]

+Sung Kim you're welcome! You don't happen to know Steve, do you? He lives in a van and hangs out at the local Peet's coffee

[@JeffreyHarrington]

Instant Pot - How do you like it? Can you use it when you don't have shore power? If so how is the battery drain?

[@Weretherussos]

Love it and yes, we can use it without shore power because we have a large battery bank and inverter. Check out this video for more details. kzbin.info/www/bejne/jGSaqKBnhs12hdE

[@danpitts8910]

Start spending more time on how and what your cooking. Thank you

[@maryboggs6516]

Would love for you to post your recipes in the more section. They all look SO good :)

[@SHINjuju]

That's so funny that you were worried about cops while stealth camping in the city because to me your stealth van reminds me of a police surveillance van! Must be the stripe decal :)

[@ruthnavarro8290]

I would love some of your road receipes.

[@Mateo714]

Can you show us how you clean Leo in your small size living?

[@Deemac1236]

I enjoy your videos so much, thanks for sharing your life. I love your Leo as well 😊

[@Cinziaking]

It's a Ram Promaster, the mfr stopped using the Dodge name for its trucks several years ago...

[@brendasullivan9094]

Nice video id like to see inside your small home

[@ghe426]

Mackinac Bridge, 5 miles long!!

[@maureenthefirst1]

In NYC our toll bridge fees are $15.00

[@babsinny]

The Wesley rest stop that's funny cuz I went by one day and thought I saw you guys's van I guess maybe it was your van I drove the long side you or past you

[@Weretherussos]

Very possible... :)

[@babsinny]

We're the Russos lol I live in Patterson so I go by that rest stop alot 🤣

[@spiritofalaska]

you guy´s are living the good life

[@notconvincedgranny6573]

You were in my backyard! I'm shocked and amazed you were able to stealth camp in Marin County, much less Mill Valley. Leo is the most chill road dog ever.

[@bstreetjr]

Love the video and your campervan. I have a question only though about the music at the start. I've been trying to find that instrumental song for a long time and would love to know what it's called.

[@Weretherussos]

It's a free song in the KZbin library called "On My Way Home" by The 126ers

[@bstreetjr]

Ah. Not that one, but the next one you used in the video. the electric guitar and drums one.

[@deaneng8540]

Nice video! I would really like more detail on your boondocking such as how did you choose your spot? How long did it take to find a good spot? do you keep real quiet, shut lights off quickly to avoid anyone noticing etc? Also, what are your plans in case you need to defend yourselves from animals or bad people? IE firearm, pepper spray etc? And what would be your backup plan if your van was ever stolen? Just curious because if I ever did what your doing I would have some kind of contingency plan. :) Keep it up! Love the videos!

[@jorgearroyo6881]

Beautiful video

[@Weretherussos]

Thanks Jorge!

[@allanwarmflash4020]

hadfun watching safe travels Go Pacs

[@teamfishon361]

Another great video.. Thanks for sharing.

[@lindav1403]

You were very wise to stop at Vik's. :)

[@paulcowell7588]

What a lovely couple...

[@dagodigger487]

What's the bed look like in that cool Van

[@mr.wizard2974]

Sings, "When The Van Starts Rocking, Don't Come A Knocking"!

[@neilmalong3458]

Really love your vid guys the way you both talk to each other inspired me. you both are cool... Thanks godbless be safe... New subscriber from philippines

[@Bulldogs4u559]

Thanks for another great video 👏

[@Weretherussos]

You're welcome!

[@theohoffman7109]

Hey guys! Looks like you’re livin the life! I’m thinking about doing van life in a Promaster with my leash-trained mainecoon. He loves traveling in the car, but I’m wondering how you guys feel about leaving the fur buddy in the van while you guys go out for a bite or to a movie or something like that. Do you just keep the fans going? Do you have a/c?

[@Weretherussos]

We always lived by the rule that if we were comfortable in the van, our furry friend would be too. Vans don't heat up the same way a car does and even in direct sun, if you put up the shades, crack the windows and put the exhaust fan on, the interior will typically stay cooler than it is outside. On those rare times it just too hot, we will get a campground or something and plug in so we can run the AC. Here's more info: kzbin.info/www/bejne/kJO0kKJmd8Sagrs

[@Acadian.FrenchFry]

My home SF bay area. I'm surprised you could find parking to stealth camp in! lol

[@Jim.Hummel]

Loving this series, guys!

[@FelipeAdventures]

Accurately you may know it by now but the that was your 2nd toll the first was at the Golden Gate, they will mail your bill!!

[@Weretherussos]

+Booshway115 No toll on the Golden Gate going north and we didn't go back across.

[@FelipeAdventures]

We're the Russos that is good to know when I visit the Bay Area I always get a bill on the mail!!

[@marig1972]

Nice video...Very enjoyable to watch. :))

[@Weretherussos]

Thanks Mari!

[@MultiRabe]

...Its like waiting every week for a brand new episode of your favorite TV show to air (w/o the reruns lol ;)! 👍👌✌🏻🍻

[@donnanhuggler8451]

“Leo, look at the camera” Lolol

[@karinhart489]

How did it go with the solar panels recharging batteries this past week with so much fog & overcast in Bay Area?

[@avlisk]

I saw the $5 toll and thought, "that's really cheap". I guess it's my perspective, coming from the Northeast.

[@Weretherussos]

We make it a point to avoid tolls...but no other way of getting across the bay!

[@AudeKhatru]

$5 looked like a lot to me, but I grew up there, and the tolls were much, much less...wait for it...40 years ago. HeeHee...after thinking about it being 40 years ago, it did not seem like so much. When I was a kid, our school did a trip where we crossed all three bridges, Marin to Oakland, Oakland to SF and then SF back to Marin. The final stop was a scale model of the Bay, with all the Bridges that is used for research purposes. Now, that trip was more like 50 years ago. Just in case anyone is interested, I grew up in Corte Madera.

[@liddlekiddle1962]

There was an article here in SF Bay Area that all the bridges will probably be going up soon to $8!! Except the Golden Gate will be $9!! Crazy expensive.

Here in Norway, we pay about 2-4 dollars on several tollbooths along the highway north of Oslo. On a distance of 50 miles, we pay 25 dollars...

[@Abundanthealthcoach]

Tommy Grønvold yes it's just more taxes on top of everything else we pay for.