Stealth van camping refers to a camping style where individuals use a van or a similar type of vehicle as their temporary living space while traveling or exploring different places. The term “stealth” is used because the goal is to avoid detection and stay low-key, allowing the camper to park and sleep in urban areas without drawing attention to themselves.
This type of overnight camping trip is popular among those who want to travel and live on the road without having to spend money on hotels or traditional camping accommodations. Stealth van camping requires a degree of resourcefulness and creativity, as campers often have to be mindful of local laws and regulations regarding overnight parking and must find creative ways to conceal their presence in residential neighborhoods.
Why Would You Want To Stealth Camp In A Van?
Urban stealth camping in a van provides a convenient and flexible way to travel and see new places while also saving money on traditional accommodations such as hotels or RV parks. Some of the reasons why people might choose to stealth camp in their van include:
- Cost savings: By converting their van into a living space and sleeping in it, travelers can save money on traditional accommodations and put those savings towards other experiences and activities.
- Convenience: A van that has been converted into a camper provides a self-contained unit that is easy to transport and park, allowing travelers to be mobile and have a comfortable place to sleep wherever they go.
- Privacy and solitude: Stealth camping in a van can provide a quiet and secluded spot to spend the night, away from the noise and bustle of populated areas, giving travelers the privacy and solitude they crave.
- Adventure and exploration: Stealth camping in a van provides a unique and adventurous way to explore new places and immerse oneself in nature.
It’s important to research and understand the laws and regulations regarding overnight camping in cities and vehicle dwelling in the areas where you plan to travel, as some places may have restrictions or bans on camping in vehicles.
What Is A Stealth Camper Van?
A stealth camper van is a type of recreational vehicle that is designed to look like a regular van from the outside, but has been converted into a living space on the inside. The term “stealth” is used because the goal is to avoid drawing attention to the fact that the van is being used as a camper, allowing the occupants to park and sleep in urban areas without being noticed.
Typically, a stealth camper van is a mini-van that’s been transformed into a mobile home on wheels, with all the bells and whistles! It’s like a chameleon, blending in with all the other vans on the road and allowing its occupants to live the life of a nomad without ever having to pay a penny for fancy hotels or traditional camping accommodations.
With a bed, kitchen, and bathroom all squeezed into this tiny rolling fortress, these stealth camper vans are the epitome of living large in small spaces. And the best part? You get to sleep wherever your heart desires, whether it’s at the base of a mountain, by a serene lake, or even in the heart of a bustling city! The possibilities are endless!
So, pack your bags, hit the road, and embrace your inner nomad with a stealth camper van! Life is an adventure, and there’s no better way to live it than on the road with all the comforts of home.
What’s The Difference Between A Regular Camper Van And A Stealth?
A stealth camper van exemplifies subtlety, as it is meticulously crafted to resemble an ordinary vehicle and avoid drawing undue attention. In comparison, a typical camper van exudes a more noticeable design that is commonly associated with leisurely road trips. This covert aspect of the stealth camper van makes it an ideal option for overnight stays in urban settings where conventional camping may not be permitted.
The interior of a stealth camper van is ingeniously transformed into a livable space, equipped with a bed, kitchenette, and bathroom facilities, while the exterior is fashioned to look like a mundane delivery or cargo van. Conversely, regular camper vans often boast a more striking exterior design, complete with expansive windows, vivid hues, and customized graphics that flaunt its purpose.
Comfort and amenities is another contrasting factor between the two. Stealth camper vans tend to be more confined and basic in their arrangements, whereas regular camper vans often feature a more opulent interior, boasting a spacious living area, a full-sized refrigerator, and a separate sleeping compartment.
By the way…you will NOT successfully stealth camp in this:
How to Find the Best Stealth Van Camping Spots in the City Streets
Finding the perfect stealth camping spot in the city can be a bit of a challenge, but with a little research and preparation, you’ll be able to find the perfect spot in no time! Here are some tips for stealth camping to help you get started:
- Look for quiet, low-traffic areas: Look for quiet side residential streets or industrial areas that are away from residential areas and busy roads.
- Look for non-commercial private property with no signs: police officers normally don’t pay attention to how long a van has been street parking there.
- Avoid bright lights: Find a spot that is away from streetlights, billboards, and other sources of bright lights.
- Research beforehand: Use online forums, travel blogs, and other resources to find recommendations for stealth camping spots in the cities you plan to visit.
- Respect the local community: Always be respectful of the local community and park your van discreetly, leaving no trace behind.
If you are looking for a sure parking spot and these places are available, you might consider:
Truck Stops and Rest Areas
Truck stops and rest areas situated along highways can provide a convenient overnight stopping-off point, although not all are welcoming to overnight parking. However, many do permit it. Signs displaying restrictions and hourly limits will indicate parking is not available.
Rest stops for trucks often have restrooms and snack machines. In addition, Flying J truck stops offer pay showers for travelers.
Walmart
Walmart parking lots can be a great option when looking for last-minute accommodation. Many Walmart locations are open 24 hours a day, providing convenient access to bathrooms and shopping items.
Cracker Barrel
Many Cracker Barrel locations offer overnight parking spaces, particularly in the east of the United States. This is typically located towards the rear of the restaurant location and will be marked with a sign indicating its availability for buses, RVs, and other vehicles.
Hotel parking lots
Stealth camping in a van is especially convenient in the parking lots of hotels, since many of them are positioned close to one another and often share the same area. As such, there is less surveillance of who is in which lot.
24 Hour Fitness and others
Get a gym membership and you have access to 24 hour camping locations and shower/toilet facilities to boot.
You can even try in church parking lots, and in city parks.
Stealth Camping Etiquette
Stealth camping is a great way to save money and explore new destinations, but it’s important to follow certain etiquette to ensure that this type of camping remains a viable option for all. Here are a few rules to follow:
- Leave no trace: Always make sure to leave the area in the same condition as you found it, with no litter or damage.
- Respect the local community: Be mindful of the local community and park your van discreetly, avoiding any noise or light pollution.
- Limit your stay: Try to limit your stay to one night, and never park in the same spot twice.
- Be self-sufficient: Always carry enough food, water, and supplies to be self-sufficient for the night.
How to Make your Own Stealth Van?
Constructing a stealth camper van is a cost-effective alternative to purchasing one, and it also gives you the freedom to tailor your van to your specific needs and preferences. Imagine having the ability to design and install all the features you desire in your custom-built camper van!
Step 1: Choosing the Right Van for Your Build
The van you choose will serve as the foundation for your camper van build, so it’s essential to pick the right one that aligns with your goals for the build. Factors to consider when selecting your van include the intended use, desired level of stealth, and budget constraints.
Van options include :
Conversion vans: Chevy Express and Astro, GMC Savanah, Ford Econoline
Minivans: Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Chrysler Pacifica, Toyota Sienna, Toyota Sienna,
Delivery vans: Ford Transit and Connect, Mercedes Sprinter
Each of these has its advantages and disadvantages. Some are more budget-friendly, while others offer more height and space, and yet others come in less striking colors, making them ideal for stealth builds.
Step 2: Time and Budget Considerations
Once you have chosen your van, consider the time and budget it will take to convert it into your dream camper van. It’s crucial to stay within your budget and ensure that you have a realistic timeline for the build.
For stealth van builds, it’s advisable to go for a less striking color, especially if you plan to use the van in urban areas. In these cases, a cargo van with no windows can work well, providing additional privacy and security. If windows are present, tinted windows should be present.
Step 3: Focus on Accommodation
When building your stealth camper van, it’s essential to think about the accommodation and go for the right size based on the number of people who will be using it. Ensure that the van provides enough space for you and your passengers to sleep, cook, and live comfortably.
Ventilation: Inhabiting a cramped quarters can swiftly result in an oppressive atmosphere. This predicament similarly extends to covert camper vans.
To attain maximum stealthiness, it is imperative to guarantee that the ventilation system does not scream for attention. And this is where a roof vent comes into play as the ultimate solution. The choices at your disposal range from a very small aperture to the installation of a comprehensive roof fan. The latter option can result in an impressive ventilation system, but be prepared to make substantial cuts into the roof of your van.
Install Solar Panels or a DC to DC Block to Charge Batteries:
Having a reliable source of power for your stealth camper van is essential when you’re unable to plug in at a campsite. There are two options that are considered the best for powering your devices: solar panels or battery isolators.
Solar panels are a convenient way to convert sunlight into electricity for your devices. However, it’s important to ensure that the areas where you park your camper van receive enough sunlight. If you plan on relying on solar power, it’s best to avoid parking garages or areas with limited sunlight exposure. You can either install solar panels yourself or hire professionals, depending on your budget and the amount of work you’re willing to put in.
Roof racks do not look out of place and can hide the solar panels from the ground level.
Another option is a battery DC to DC Block, which is useful when you find yourself parked in a shaded area for an extended period. This can serve as a supplement to solar panels or an alternative if they are unavailable.
A DC to DC Block works by transferring the charge from the camper van’s alternator to the auxiliary battery bank while you drive, without depleting the van’s battery.
Final Thoughts
Constructing a covert camper van can be an excellent way to cut costs, tailor your van to your unique requirements, and actualize your ideal mobile dwelling. To guarantee the success of your build and achieve a van that meets all your desires, consider these guidelines.
