

BOONDOCKING TIPS GENERATOR
Make sure you park a respectable distance from other motorhomes so as not to overwhelm their space or view, and also make sure that the noise from your generator (if you are using one) will not disturb them. Keep a respectable distance from others.We even made a list of the best apps to use in one of our latest posts (Where to sleep in a van). There are several apps to make your life on the road easier. Use the satellite view from Google Maps or Google Earth to get a better idea of the terrain before you arrive. It’s also good to make sure you’re not parked where someone or something will prevent you from sleeping through the night, such as road maintenance at night. Make sure the area is safe from passing cars and that you are not blocking other streets or alleys. This avoids being noticed and allows you to settle in a more private place to have your morning coffee and get ready for the day. Move your vehicle before people start their day. In addition, it also helps keep your garbage to a minimum. Preparing and freezing meals or making salads ahead of time means there are fewer dishes to wash, making it easier and more time to relax and enjoy while reducing the need to go to the kitchen. Most vanlifers seem to get away with just a police reprimand and no fines. Don’t try to justify your actions or think of an excuse, just start your vehicle and get out of it. If you are knocked on the window late at night, do exactly what the police or security guard tells you. You paid for it, so while you’re there you might as well practice! Take a look at our article about 5 ways to shower when living in a van. Keep yourself clean too! The best way to do this is to join a gym and go there often to shower and clean up.If you have an old vehicle, no problem – keep it clean. This is just one more invitation to get knocked on the door by the police. We have all seen multitudes of vans and crumbling cars parked by the side of the street and in parking lots. Keep your van spotlessly clean Never “look homeless”.Avoid drinking water at night to decrease the need to use the toilet. Don’t drink too much water before bed.However, going out in the middle of the night to use the bathroom is a big indicator that you are sleeping in your van, so be prepared to relieve yourself inside the van in case of an emergency. Most of the time, you will be using a public toilet to go to the bathroom and clean yourself up. Be prepared to do your business inside the vehicle.If you are camping near a water source, such as a river or stream, bring a water filter. You can invest in collapsible water containers to make the most of your space.
BOONDOCKING TIPS FOR FREE
Make sure to fill up your tanks before heading out for free camping. Walkie talkies are therefore useful when trying to communicate while backing up in the camper or taking a bumpy road. You are not always going to have a cell signal when practicing the art of boondocking. Other items such as a shovel, water purifier, and even a distress gun can also come in handy. Bring a few items such as a first aid kit, troubleshooting kit, and basic tools. Boondocking often means you’ll be traveling outside of cell service range, and it’s important to be prepared if something goes wrong.

If you feel uncomfortable with your choice of parking, listen to yourself and don’t take the risk. Pick a good middle class neighborhood with lots of cars already parked on the street. If you are stealth camping in a neighborhood, choose one where you feel safe.

There are many ways to distinguish a vehicle as a camper: bikes, roof racks, stickers, emblems, paint or strange colors.
