Old Private Investigator trick: in the morning when you climb into the cab from the back of your Van, open and then close your driver’s door. The noise will subconsciously connect with Neighbours that someone (even if unseen) has just climbed into the vehicle. Driving off then, doesn’t lead them to the idea that someone was onboard all of the time.
I've unfortunately been stealth camping in London, for the last 5 years during weekdays. I use a Unibond 360 moisture remover, which lasts for around a month or 2. I use doubled up black bin liners as curtains, A double folded blanket to separate front seats from the back. I don't really eat after 2pm so that I don't get caught short at night. Never have been. I shower each morning at one of the branches of TheGym. I have weather deflectors for all the windows. Almost all my gear in the back is black. Every time I sleep, I have to roll over from the front seat to the rear, having checked 3 directions. Same in the morning when I awake, but roll over onto the front seats instead, after checking and listening. Always pull the central locking fuse out. Sometimes have foxes walking over my vehicle at night. Sometimes squirrels dancing on the roof. Only once did a chancer try the door handle. Only woken a few times when people have sat on the bonnet.
In 1975 I spent 2 months stealth living in the back streets of Earls Court in a 1960 CA Bedford van while working at Brentwood Lucozade factory had a bath couple times a week at Victoria station now 47 year later back in a van cruising round Western Australia & I still love it!
@@annychest718 As late as the early 90s you could still get something like 15 mins to shower for a couple of quid(?) in some of the mainline stations. I think the idea was to facilitate people who had to 'come up to town' for interviews, meetings, etc. so they could freshen up. Then again, there was a time when it was said that 'you could eat your dinner off of the floor' of a London toilet (which was a bit of a stretch, admittedly...) Obviously, that was when London _had_ public toilets..!
@Donna E I no longer live in London(or the UK ) Donna,but I was born there&still have family&friends living there (who I don't see very often admittedly-the last time I was there was in 2011) but wth all that said,I'm curious ur take on the place of my birth!
Forget the Rainex "anti-fog" .....Polish the inside of your windows with "Hair Conditioner" [leave it slightly greasy] we do this for classic car racing in the rain [they get hot inside] Put a roof rack on your van with a ladder.... Then add some "bullshit" tradesman signwriting to the inside of your window blackouts [these get removed when you remove the blackouts]
It’s such a shame that the UK has such anti camper van laws that stop you sleeping in your van over night. Here if France they embrase camper vans and you can park just about anywhere and sleep in your van. Most towns provide municipal camp sites with water and waste disposal for free. Some charge a nominal fee.
@@dianndranewman2350 They are friendly when you look friendly and white, anything outside the box isn’t welcoming That’s my country Btw just got back from 3 days in France and got my solar panels stolen When last winter I left my van in London in my ghetto car park for 6 month without any issues It can happen anytime but honestly my country is just pretty when you don’t understand people and what is going on
@@HamburgerHelperDeath France It’s a beautiful, beautiful place unfortunately such a paradox, but you know nothing is black or white, we can find beauty anywhere we go even in chaos
Being stealthy stopped the moment you pulled up guys. Outside someone's home, in and out of the van, filming out in the middle of the road, taking down curtain in the morning with side door open on full view of someones home. Apart from that very good lol.
I stay in my van 5 nights a week working all around London, I’ve done this for 7 years and have had someone attempt to break in a few times when I went “stealth” I now put my reflective covers on and have never been bothered with, I’d rather people think someone’s in there rather than a wrong in thinking it’s empty!
I used to stealth camp on the Welsh coast. When approached I would just say my husband was night fishing and name a local campsite where we were 'staying' always got away with it as they never expected a single woman to be stealth camping. Miss my van so much
London resident here. I think in some ways you’re less likely to get hassle stealthing it in London than some rural locations. People in campers aren’t a problem in London, people won’t even be looking for people sleeping in vans. People in popular beauty spots are far more likely to be looking and be annoyed by vans because they’ll have a negative view due to rubbish and crowded car parks. As long as you’re considerate and respectful, as I’m sure you guys are, you’ll have no problems in London.
I watch a lot of van build vids and am toying with doing some van life next summer. I think the best thing (for me) would be to create a thermal fabric bulk head, that seals you from cold and light. I would construct a border part that's fixed and have a square piece that velcros all around. Then, I would get the wind reflectors and crack the windows in the cab for fresh air and condensation reduction. Alternatively (and I've seen some people do this), I would fit inconspicuous vents with laptop fans to circulate the air in the cab.
We’ve stealth camped for years and wind deflectors (as mentioned by many) are a must for us. Having the windows open an inch each side helps massively with condensation in the cab but also helps ensure you’re breathing in decent air. We’ve both felt the effects of not doing this in our old T4 with violent headaches. It’s a must for us every time. Next top tip is shaving gel (not foam) on for the windscreen. Smear it on (it’s a fun job, definitely worth filming it!) and keep smearing until it’s all clear. This will keep those droplets off and also makes the cab smell funky fresh. Along with the cab sheet and blacked windows that you’ve already started doing, you’ll be stealthier than a stealthy thing on a stealthy day 👍🏼
@@eahannan No. It's like doing it on the bathroom mirror when you have a steamy shower. You put the soap/shower gel on the surface you want to keep free from fogging up.
Take and old wool sock. The larger the better. Put as much RAW rice inside as you can and just leave it on the front seat. It will suck up like 90% of moisture from the air inside the van preventing fogging and condensation.
A bucket of road salt (or sea salt packs) in the front seats will help reduce or eliminate humidity or moisture. I keep it in my trunk during the winter and it was noticeably dryer in my car when I have snow on my boots bringing in moisture. From Calgary, Alberta :D
Salt is the no. 1 enemy of steel-bodied cars, especially when there is any moisture around. So it's a really bad idea to take it inside a van that's going to get damp!
I don’t have a clue about social media “things”. However, in my humble opinion, the two of you are not doing something right! I’ve watched enough of your videos to know that you are both extremely grateful for the followers that you have and that you’d never push yourselves on anyone. HOWEVER, more people need to meet you!!! I’m a new “Bean” so I won’t pretend to have seen all your videos…yet. However, the streaming has begun! Emma, you’ve got to do a harder sell if you want anyone to believe you struggle with depression! I find your personality magnetic and the way you and Alex tease and play with each other is heartwarming! What you both must be doing for tourism in the countries that you visit is mind-blowing! You both are incredible, inside (and out 😉)! Every video of yours I’ve watched has made me smile and most have made me laugh! Stay positive! It’s your most attractive feature (and that’s saying a lot)! Love you both!
As a truck driver from across the pond we here use those bottles of dish washer additives that keep your glasses from getting spots on them, it also works at keeping the fog off the windows. Put some on a rag and wipe your windows when dry just polish it clear should work for about a week. N Joy Mates
The condensation problem could be addressed by leaving one or two of the windows a crack open for the air to move and renew. You’ll probably say now someone could see this from the outside and you’re right, that’s where the wind and rain shields for the windows come in! They are also just super handy for driving with an open window because they shield you which is a lot more convenient than without. I went with the tinted ones for my T4 and it really covers my open window crack quite nicely! Cheers and save travels!
I saw someone use a magnetic company logo on their van so they don’t get parking tickets they also put a hard hat on the dash with a clipboard with papers or “work orders”. So it looks like a work van
I stealth camp almost every night in a city. You won't get rid of the condensation in the winter unfortunately. Next time park with a vehicle behind you, then you are protected if there was an accident especially if you sleep with your heads by the rear doors. I park down cul-de-sacs and quiet roads.
I used a heavy duty tent groundsheet as a screen behind the front seats. It was totally blacked out but more importantly it acted as a vapour barrier so that no moist air reached the front windows. No steamed up windows. It needed to be closely and tightly fitted around the edges.
Great video as always. What I have is some Heko wind deflectors on the front windows, then I can leave the windows open just a cm or so and no rain can get in and you can’t tell from the outside. The ventilation helps prevent condensation. As long as you aren’t snoring when someone walks past!
Love the Idea. There is something so romantic about being able to wake up anywhere in the world of British car parks. Together. You could go one better and sleep in Doorways.
In regards to a misty windscreen we have fitted on our t4 wind deflectors and then open our windows down about 1 inch, this makes an insane difference in the morning and when cooking. We have fitted a curtain rail and some thermal curtains so the cold doesn’t effect us too much with the windows open slightly. Let us know how the anti fog goes!
I would want a thicker curtain, any lights you have on will show thru that one you used here. scent free cat litter works to absorb moisture, a sock or stocking filled and laid on the dash will suck up moisture at night and either be dried by the sun or the vehicles defroster vent, a cotton bag of salt will also help
I think you’ll want a proper black out curtain to separate the front cab area from the back. Just as you can easily see through the black sheet in the day, people outside will be able to easily see through it at night, when you have the light on.
London is relatively easy for sleeping in a vehicle, as long as you avoid the stuffy ultra respectable areas. A bit like Cambridge, there is a long established history of people doing it. To be a bit safer, I'd have a daytime parking spot, and a night time one too. When I did it, cooking was easiest in recreation ground car parks (leave by mid afternoon to avoid the 'yoofs'). To be fair, I avoided 1930's streets, preferring the 1960's / 70's areas. Easier to find somewhere with less than 3 or 4 houses that can see you. A few metres into a cul de sac, drive in at 9 pm, dive over the seats into the already prepared sleeping area, and off again before 5 am. Admittedly, I'm not as middle class as you, so have to be more careful.
Someday I hope to do what you're doing and beating the high cost of London. Two suggestions: 1. For that moisture, look into crystals that pull water out of the air. They have names like "DampRid." Boaters use them. 2. To look less conspicuous, particularly with an old van, add roof racks with a ladder or two. Then get a sign shop to make a magnetic sign for a business.
The condensation solution is either don’t breath ( not practical) or ventilation. easy to achieve! To maintain stealth and security a roof vent is a help but if you have wind deflectors you can have the cab windows cracked to get some wind assisted ventilation and no one will notice the ‘security breach’ the downside will be sound transmission in and out, but as you are sleeping not partying and are on a residential street not a main drag it shouldn’t be an issue.
Tackle condensation by placing moisture-absorbing items in your car. One effective measure is filling an old sock or pair of tights with cat litter. The clay particles in cat litter are excellent at absorbing excess moisture
The one thing to be very VERY careful of when doing this is that if someone does phone the Police and they turn up at the van and you are both over the legal drink-drive alcohol limit then you can be charged with being in charge of a motor vehicle while over the limit. Even if you don't intend to drive anywhere... If only one of you is then the other is "in charge of the vehicle" when the Police ask...
I Stealth camp everywhere, I use reflectix in my windows, I didn't know that this film exists! I'll be buying some as soon as I've measured my windows tomorrow. As others said, wind deflectors are a must but they don't completely solve the issue. You do see vehicles with steamed up windows so don't worry too much about that. I carefully place a small light such that the source can't be seen through my cab curtains. I even use my diesel heater in built up areas, most people have no idea what the sound is so might stop and be puzzled but move along when they don't see anything of interest.
Glad to see you got a steering wheel lock, I use one too, especially in big cities where car break-ins are more common. Make your van look like a work van. Leave a yellow vest, a hard hat and a clipboard in the front. I've never seen that spray on vinyl sheeting used before....good idea! They do make those moisture absorbing products you can place on the dashboard or you can make one by taking an old sock and filling it with kitty litter. Also, just keeping the inside of the windows as clean as possible helps, so there is nothing for the moisture to cling to. Good to see you having a fun time in London and cheers to stealth camping.
If you’re not stealth camping, I think external window covers are good for preventing internal fogging of the windscreen. Like a full cover that sort of hooks around thew tops of the doors.
London for stealth much easier than people often believe. So ubiquitous and busy, you can remain anonymous in so many ways. And then the buses and trains are just brilliant to get around. Ive heard many frustrated campers irritated about condensation, we found the only thing for us was when we had good air-con, soon clears when you start up.
Den James, I tink I need your help , as I am picking up my french van next week and bring it back to london where I need to work for a week , any recommendation on where to hide ;) close from a tube :) would be very welcome
Condensation: simply do nothing, other than open the windows about 1 - 2cm. Cover seat bases with Towels in case of rain (it'll wake you if it rains hard and you can close windows). The condensation itself forms a privacy barrier and nobody looks closely enough at the van to notice; remember most people are quite wrapped up in their own world. Partner & I have stealth camped in my Peugeot 405 Estate in this way for over 10 years. Security: Steering Lock is good, but a Wheel Clamp is better.
I had two little re chargeable dehumidifier squares that removed all the moisture from my super damp windows. Got them on Amazon and love them, you could place them on the front seats. Love the black wet window covers, great idea!
Did you use rain x ? Rain x is supposed to be excellent. I think rubbing the window with a potato is one way. I know I've seen a few videos on you tube lately that tell how to get moisture off but I didn't pay any attention. Search for those. You might just have too much moisture in there and no matter what you're going to get it on the windows. You would need ventilation or a device that absorbs moisture. Search for that. Also after a while spraying your windows with water is going to rust the window frames. Use as little water as possible. Spray the plastic lightly or dab water on it with a sponge.
Three years stealth camping just north of London in Stevenage. No real problems apart from a few weeks of hearing every noise outside I think your mind just plays tricks on you. Anyway great video guys😊
You need a silent exhaust fan to draw out the moisture and bad air whilst getting clean fresh air into the van. Improve your air quality and get rid of moisture and exhale waste products.
In order to get rid of condesation you need a rooftop with a fan and wind deflectors in your windows, that way you can keep your windows a bit open enabling good air flow
Lovely video thanks. Not sure if it has been mentioned but kitty litter tied in a double sock eliminates fog and condensation in vehicles. Cheap and effective. Just leave it on the dashboard of a night. You can just change it out after several weeks when it gets too saturated.
I recognised the Halfords in Staines you stopped at, you could have parked up in the little lay-by just outside the barrier to that carpark right next to the river thames and stayed there too, its a 20 min walk to train station along the river and a 45 min train trip to Waterloo.
Hi Beans,Great film.Condesation pots,They use them in caravans.If not bye a heavy duty car battery,Charge it up,Use it to plug a heater in.Just an idear,Keep safe.One love X.
I have the same steering lock and it prevented the theft of my van, the thieves who tried to steel it cut through the steering wheel trying to remove it, when you fit it you have to lock it with the two hooks either side of one of the steering wheel spokes, if they cut the wheel it leaves a tee shape so you still can't remove it,
For condensation, I recommend a solar power, ceiling fan , zero condensation, Plus a window deflectors and open the window, a tiny bit on each side for airflow
There are humidity control things, such as those little things you find inside of medicine bottles that say, "Do not eat." I don't know what the legal status of Cannabis is there but, around here, we have these little packs that are bigger than the ones in medicine bottles for drying out the buds and that should help without making it too dry (which might not be a problem where you are but it can be here). Also, definitely crack the windows. If someone bothers you, you can always say you're making a TV series of some sort or doing some sort of an experiment. This should work unless it's a cop and maybe even if it is a cop. I had some cops try to shoo me out of a public park by lying to say that the park was closed. I simply told them, "If the park is closed, then why are the bathrooms still open?" They had to leave and then I stayed there until someone did come around to lock the bathrooms. Then I never stayed near those bathrooms again because there were some yuppie's houses too nearby. Hey, they were the ones who moved in by the public park so that means they're going to have to deal with the public using said park and tough shit if they don't like it.
You can buy demister bags which can lay in the front by the window, however the cheapest and works a treat is a pair of socks, some You cat litter, the silica crystals one, only a few quid. Pour into said socks, knot the end and lay on the dash underneath the window, sorted. You could get ingenious and do some for the other windows if you can find a way of attaching them to the bottom of the windows. Good luck.
Kitty litter absorbs condensation, spread it out as much as you can in the cab in low boxes, and fill some socks with it and put on the dashboard over night. Also, temporary pull the rubber seal on the front doors back corner (and wedge a little gap with something it still doesnt gap)
This has definitely been an educational video for someone who's been wanting to stealth camp for such a long time! You might've just pushed me over the edge to finally give it a try! Keep up the great work guys! You two are awesome!
Halfords used to sell big silica bags for cars dehumidify it and since you're so tight you can heat them up/cook them to dry them out in theory like a biscuit tub
to put your black plastic on use a rubber squeegee it takes out all bubbles and it doesn't scratch your plastic. humidity inside crack the window a hair to let out humidity. or stop by a sports shop for divers. underwater divers. they have a spray they use on their goggles. so when underwater they never fog up.
For added security (against theft of the van itself), you might want to invest in a Bearlock. This is a mechanical lock that securely locks the vehicle in reverse gear. Not cheap, but effective... The girls from camper vibe have a video on this.
Brilliant video. I love that you make a game out of finding free spots to camp, that's ace. We are moving from our lovely Kev T5 to a big burly Crafter next year and have already blocked off our bulk head so that we can essentially camp anywhere. Here's a tip for you. When you put your rock and roll bed away just roll up your mattress topper and duvet into the back of the van. Then push your seat up and throw your pillows into the back. When you want to make the bed just pull out unroll and tuck it in. Saved us loads of time and hassle messing around with stuff. Basically a rock and roll bedding set.
Use FAIRY LIQUID on the windows. I lived in a house with aluminium window frames - the condensation was unreal. Every night before I went to bed I got a cloth, put fairy liquid on it, smeared it over the windows - initially, it doesn’t look great, but when it drys in the windows look ok. No condensation in the morning whatsoever - it works. Good luck with your travels.
Oh tough 2:40 you got the 1.9 diesel? what you want is the 2.5 TD benefits, Smooth 5 cylinder engine 60 mpg on the open road Top speed 110 mph Lifting tailgate can be used as veranda in rainy conditions Alloy wheels But 900 a pop for the catalytic.
I've stealth camped in London and other cities and towns. In the days when I was training, I used to have early court hearings (I'm a lawyer) all over the country and I would get there the night before and find a spot to park overnight so I could be in nice and early. I went on nights out in Hoxton a couple of times and "stayed over" (before ULEZ). So I definitely relate to your video 👌
I do stealth camping all over UK and inside the M25 area a lot for work. Have a basic set up in back. But so far never had problems. Just one train station car park in London that my van got a lot of attention with from youths ( Only parking in London I found for free from 6pm till 8am lol). An one spot where I had a man walking up and down all night checking the van out. Expecting he was after my DPF. Think my night heater on trickle all night, is why he wouldn't approach. The app park4night gives some useful places to park and sleep in London too.
The best stealth vehicle is a beaten up white van (sign painted?) with no windows and the bulkhead. A small ventilator on top should be OK so long as it's not making any noise.
Shaving Foam against foggy windows. Leave it on the inside of the windows for a few minutes then rub it off with a dry cloth. XXX Also a sock filled with cat sand helps for extra absorption.
blackout windows are essential for stealth . I dont even have windows in the back of my sprinter van. but when I had my Toyota Previa I did exactly as you did with the blackout curtain and stick black for the windows. Never had a prob in years
Nothing beats inside condensation like an air flow.... either leave a crack of window open overnight (but buy and install an upper some inches wide wind deflector to hide it and protect from rain) or install a roof hatch... the counterpart is you gotta get good duvets too then to not be freezing inside, and not be noisy (snoring, farting or other usually blaring events happenning)...
You really don't have to stealth camp in London. Been loving in mine for 2 years looks like a camper van never had a problem. As long as its taxed and MOTed no worries.
A Ti p.....Always buy aa van with no windows ....Windows are a Dead Giveaway...Remove the bulkhead ..A good curtain to replace the bulkhead...Cab looks unoccupied...Stealth Camping I love It!!!!
here on the wirral you can sleep overnight in your van for free. the best places are harrison drive , from new brighton to the coast guard tower fort perch rock car park . new brighton caldy west kirby thirseston common hoylake parkgate
Yeah, I've done it in North London when visiting family (amongst other places). I open windows a crack but also leave boot and side door open (and locked) on the latch. There is/was a device available from JK (Just Kampers) to extend the gap and enable locking with the boot open a few cm. Seems to work depending on whether you park with the side door pavement or road side (road side is best as pedestrians move past slower than vehicles and notice more anomalies). Will still steam/feeze up in very cold weather. (The gizmo is for the boot, not the side door) Oh, and really obvious when the hibernating bear I seem to carry with me gets going (hhm, wonder where it goes in the morning?). Enjoy and carry on😉
With regards to the condensation. Buy wind reflectors for the windows, then leave them open 1cm or so. Secondly, get something like a max-air fan above the bed. That should sort it out. You need constant airflow to stop condsation.
For condensation try white rice in an old sock. It may take a few but it should keep the van a bit drier. It's also great for storing clothing long term.
Get a can of aerosol shave cream. Smear it on the glass. Let it dry thoroughly then polish off with a cloth. Works on bathroom mirrors and such. Also just barely crack a window open, not enough that you can tell from outside.
Hi. Just take a toothpaste on a cloth and rub over all windscreen from inside. At start it looks toothpaste marks but keep rubbing and then toothpaste settled in windscreen micro holes which eye can’t see. Actually all vapours appear because of these micro holes in windscreen. You will see the difference next morning.
Adding alcohol into the mix add another level of risk. 1. If you get asked to move and the avoid any unpleasantness, you cannot simply drive away there and then. 2. I'm genuinely not sure how the police would view this, being possibly over the legal limit, on a public highway. Great video, thank you. Go careful with the 🍺🍺🤣
First thing I thought when they went off to drink and got back in the early hours is ‘drunk in charge’. Parked on a public highway, intoxicated in the back of a vehicle, whatever your intentions, would land you in court.
If no one has suggested it, spread a thin layer of shaving cream...the foaming type...then wipe it off with a soft cloth or paper towel. Your condensation problem will go away. Anytime you put water or some kind of cleaner on your windscreen, you will have to do it again. But since it's so cheap, it's worth it. Good luck & stay stealth-y!
If you are breathing in the van in winter you will get condensation. Ventilation helps but then you get cold. External thermal window covers are the best but not at all stealthy. Also you cannot drive away in a hurry so best kept for when you are on a campsite.
Another great video - Steering wheel lock is a great addition, we use on all our cars, just gives a visual deterrent that might put someone off and move on.
You didn’t test the rainx or mistx whatever it’s called but a cheap alternative put a couple of drops of washing up liquid on a damp cloth only a couple mins and wipe over the inside of your windows leave it to self dry that works. Also get some of those moisture traps and crystals leave in the van when not using keeps everything dry and fresh mind the liquid afterwards it’s nasty stuff but good for killing weeds. What’s that film called looks really handy.
We just converted our car into a micro camper and we have a lot of trouble with fog as well! Might be worth investing in some deflectors, they attach to the windows and can let you open the windows a crack to get some good air flow in
Hey guys, I looked on Amazon and they have small, cheap, battery operated, wireless Dehu’s for $15-30 for up to 333 sq. ft. Just the front portion of your van can’t be too difficult to keep dry. Great videos, loved your Scotland tour, quite a scenic adventure!🍻🍻
As a truckdriver who sleeps in a truck often we use heavy vinyl curtains between the cab and sleeper and the truck is vented. If it's too cold a diesel heater is cheap and quiet to run ( off your fuel tank) I've never had condensation because it's vented . Maybe crack a window open slightly.
Brilliant move cinematically with the call to the other travel vlogger for advice on her city. Seamlessly integrated and a great way to network and collab. You all should do this in every new city you go to as a way of building your base even more and adding something clever to the videos.
Yeah, true, but on the other hand, giving out your safe parking spots on the interweb... lets hope it doesnt get swamped by vans, or by those who leave their rubbish behind. As a truck driver, i would never reveal my secure parking spots on a public forum. Too many parking places have been closed because of inconsiderate so and so's, who give the good (quiet and clean..) a bad name.
Great vid as always!!! As per Grant below, you need air flow to takeaway the moisture you breath out overnight. This is easy with a solid roof ( max van or similar on the lowest trickle setting), HOWEVER as you have a pop top not so easy. Wind deflectors do hide a slightly opened window, and no rain in etc, but trade off is slight noise ingress. Be sure you havn't covered over the passive vents built into the body ( often a small grill / slot inside the door / panel covers) they go to rubber vents that allow air out but no water etc in. Common hidden around / under door pockets in front doors of vans, and at rear down low ( and vent out behind bumpers).
I used shaving cream on the windows and windscreen it was awesome against condensation, You wipe it on white, and wipe it off and no condensation overnight.
We love our T4 (30 years old 92 reg) and find it extremely easy to park up in sneaky urban spots as it’s SWB, the only problem is it’s a high top so stands out far more if you’re looking down the street. Love the video.
(not read all comments, so this may be repeating what others said) I get massive problems with condensation, simply from leaving my car unused for weeks in the Winter - so I buy those crystals that come in tubs to remove damp. I got some great ones from Tesco - but they seem to have stopped supplying them, so I bought a load from the internet and they turned out to be pretty useless. However, it may be that they started to absorb moisture and then froze up and thus were rendered useless. There is obviously a cost to the stuff and refills - or you might figure out what the chemical is and buy it direct, but at least it is not draining your battery or making a noise. As a Diver, we used washing up liquid to stop our masks fogging - I think it is something to do with the water's surface tension. Another idea might be to use domestic triple glazing film... this sticks to windows with double-sided sticky tape, then you use a hot air dryer to heat-shrink it taught and it is magic stuff, but to fit it to a van window you might also want some kind of light spacer - perhaps a frame made from balsa wood and bluetack that to the windows and then put the film taped to the balsa strip frame. I'm basically thinking that anything that puts an air gap between the interior and the glass might help eliminate condensation. It is probably a good idea to use some kind of damp eliminator - because that moisture is going to end up somewhere and that's probably anything absorbent - like carpets and upholstery, so it might end up giving you mould problems.
It really seems like a big hassle to stealth camp in Great Britain. I live in the States (Montana) & when I go on road trips I'll boondock or sleep in rest areas. Walmart parking lots are also popular & located in most cities. They usually don't mind, since they figure you'll shop there. I'm happy that you're having fun with the challenges.
Easy fix. Fit wind deflectors. That will allow you to leave the front windows down about 1cm without anyone being able to see the windows are down slightly.
I’d second the wind deflector suggestion. Nobody can tell the window is open a fraction and it makes a world of difference. I have been using my van as an office and don’t get condensation despite being here for hours.
Get a thermal blackout curtain - or make one yourself! The fabric is pretty cheap on ebay. It completely blocks the light from outside and in, so you can't be seen at all. Your bedsheet is basically see through if you have a light on! The thermal curtain also keeps the back pretty warm, I find if I stick my head into the cab its freezing in comparison.
Old Private Investigator trick: in the morning when you climb into the cab from the back of your Van, open and then close your driver’s door. The noise will subconsciously connect with Neighbours that someone (even if unseen) has just climbed into the vehicle.
Driving off then, doesn’t lead them to the idea that someone was onboard all of the time.
I've unfortunately been stealth camping in London, for the last 5 years during weekdays. I use a Unibond 360 moisture remover, which lasts for around a month or 2. I use doubled up black bin liners as curtains, A double folded blanket to separate front seats from the back. I don't really eat after 2pm so that I don't get caught short at night. Never have been. I shower each morning at one of the branches of TheGym. I have weather deflectors for all the windows. Almost all my gear in the back is black. Every time I sleep, I have to roll over from the front seat to the rear, having checked 3 directions. Same in the morning when I awake, but roll over onto the front seats instead, after checking and listening. Always pull the central locking fuse out. Sometimes have foxes walking over my vehicle at night. Sometimes squirrels dancing on the roof. Only once did a chancer try the door handle. Only woken a few times when people have sat on the bonnet.
thanks for sharing 👌, any tips for parking spots 🤔? thanks in advance ! 👍
In 1975 I spent 2 months stealth living in the back streets of Earls Court in a 1960 CA Bedford van while working at Brentwood Lucozade factory had a bath couple times a week at Victoria station now 47 year later back in a van cruising round Western Australia & I still love it!
Hah had the Neat of the bottle on the side of the building, lived in EC myself for a few years in Nevern Place.
Bath at Victoria station ?
@Donna E
Lol are you a Londoner ?
@@annychest718 As late as the early 90s you could still get something like 15 mins to shower for a couple of quid(?) in some of the mainline stations. I think the idea was to facilitate people who had to 'come up to town' for interviews, meetings, etc. so they could freshen up. Then again, there was a time when it was said that 'you could eat your dinner off of the floor' of a London toilet (which was a bit of a stretch, admittedly...) Obviously, that was when London _had_ public toilets..!
@Donna E I no longer live in London(or the UK ) Donna,but I was born there&still have family&friends living there (who I don't see very often admittedly-the last time I was there was in 2011) but wth all that said,I'm curious ur take on the place of my birth!
Forget the Rainex "anti-fog" .....Polish the inside of your windows with "Hair Conditioner" [leave it slightly greasy]
we do this for classic car racing in the rain [they get hot inside]
Put a roof rack on your van with a ladder.... Then add some "bullshit" tradesman signwriting to the inside of your window blackouts [these get removed when you remove the blackouts]
It’s such a shame that the UK has such anti camper van laws that stop you sleeping in your van over night. Here if France they embrase camper vans and you can park just about anywhere and sleep in your van. Most towns provide municipal camp sites with water and waste disposal for free. Some charge a nominal fee.
for now , cos we are retarded !! wait a bit longer it's starting
Really?? Next stop France!
@@dianndranewman2350
They are friendly when you look friendly and white, anything outside the box isn’t welcoming
That’s my country
Btw just got back from 3 days in France and got my solar panels stolen
When last winter I left my van in London
in my ghetto car park for 6 month without any issues
It can happen anytime but honestly my country is just pretty when you don’t understand people and what is going on
@@TamaraVagabonde what’s your country?
@@HamburgerHelperDeath France
It’s a beautiful, beautiful place unfortunately such a paradox, but you know nothing is black or white, we can find beauty anywhere we go even in chaos
Being stealthy stopped the moment you pulled up guys. Outside someone's home, in and out of the van, filming out in the middle of the road, taking down curtain in the morning with side door open on full view of someones home. Apart from that very good lol.
I stay in my van 5 nights a week working all around London, I’ve done this for 7 years and have had someone attempt to break in a few times when I went “stealth” I now put my reflective covers on and have never been bothered with, I’d rather people think someone’s in there rather than a wrong in thinking it’s empty!
Interesting perspective
Any location tips you’d like to give?
thanks for sharing 👌, any tips for parking spots 🤔? thanks in advance ! 👍
I used to stealth camp on the Welsh coast. When approached I would just say my husband was night fishing and name a local campsite where we were 'staying' always got away with it as they never expected a single woman to be stealth camping. Miss my van so much
This is utterly brilliant, I'll be doing that for sure. Thanks.
London resident here. I think in some ways you’re less likely to get hassle stealthing it in London than some rural locations. People in campers aren’t a problem in London, people won’t even be looking for people sleeping in vans. People in popular beauty spots are far more likely to be looking and be annoyed by vans because they’ll have a negative view due to rubbish and crowded car parks. As long as you’re considerate and respectful, as I’m sure you guys are, you’ll have no problems in London.
I watch a lot of van build vids and am toying with doing some van life next summer. I think the best thing (for me) would be to create a thermal fabric bulk head, that seals you from cold and light. I would construct a border part that's fixed and have a square piece that velcros all around. Then, I would get the wind reflectors and crack the windows in the cab for fresh air and condensation reduction. Alternatively (and I've seen some people do this), I would fit inconspicuous vents with laptop fans to circulate the air in the cab.
We’ve stealth camped for years and wind deflectors (as mentioned by many) are a must for us. Having the windows open an inch each side helps massively with condensation in the cab but also helps ensure you’re breathing in decent air. We’ve both felt the effects of not doing this in our old T4 with violent headaches. It’s a must for us every time.
Next top tip is shaving gel (not foam) on for the windscreen. Smear it on (it’s a fun job, definitely worth filming it!) and keep smearing until it’s all clear. This will keep those droplets off and also makes the cab smell funky fresh. Along with the cab sheet and blacked windows that you’ve already started doing, you’ll be stealthier than a stealthy thing on a stealthy day 👍🏼
Probably be better with windows closed..have you sampled Lndn air? Not that fresh.. especially with all these diesel's
@@annychest718 Just curious how long have u lived (or maybe u were born) in London?
Thanks. Obviously on the outside of the windscreen?
@@eahannan No. It's like doing it on the bathroom mirror when you have a steamy shower. You put the soap/shower gel on the surface you want to keep free from fogging up.
The air in London is clean, stop falling for the BS @@annychest718
Take and old wool sock. The larger the better. Put as much RAW rice inside as you can and just leave it on the front seat. It will suck up like 90% of moisture from the air inside the van preventing fogging and condensation.
A bucket of road salt (or sea salt packs) in the front seats will help reduce or eliminate humidity or moisture. I keep it in my trunk during the winter and it was noticeably dryer in my car when I have snow on my boots bringing in moisture. From Calgary, Alberta :D
Another option believe it or not, is to put cat litter into old socks.
Nah they don't wanto do that
Hack saw 6 second the steering wheel locks don't work. Get the peddle locking one. Love the channel.
Salt is the no. 1 enemy of steel-bodied cars, especially when there is any moisture around.
So it's a really bad idea to take it inside a van that's going to get damp!
@@RupertReynolds1962 in a bucket with a cotton cloth or mesh on top, not on the floor or carpet or on the steel surfaces.
I don’t have a clue about social media “things”. However, in my humble opinion, the two of you are not doing something right! I’ve watched enough of your videos to know that you are both extremely grateful for the followers that you have and that you’d never push yourselves on anyone. HOWEVER, more people need to meet you!!! I’m a new “Bean” so I won’t pretend to have seen all your videos…yet. However, the streaming has begun! Emma, you’ve got to do a harder sell if you want anyone to believe you struggle with depression! I find your personality magnetic and the way you and Alex tease and play with each other is heartwarming! What you both must be doing for tourism in the countries that you visit is mind-blowing! You both are incredible, inside (and out 😉)! Every video of yours I’ve watched has made me smile and most have made me laugh! Stay positive! It’s your most attractive feature (and that’s saying a lot)! Love you both!
Awsome.. But get some rain guards and leave the windows open at the front about 1/2 inch
As a truck driver from across the pond we here use those bottles of dish washer additives that keep your glasses from getting spots on them, it also works at keeping the fog off the windows. Put some on a rag and wipe your windows when dry just polish it clear should work for about a week. N Joy Mates
We use a Karcher window vacuum to dry the condensation off the windows - obviously didn’t stop the condensation but was so easy to get rid of
The condensation problem could be addressed by leaving one or two of the windows a crack open for the air to move and renew. You’ll probably say now someone could see this from the outside and you’re right, that’s where the wind and rain shields for the windows come in! They are also just super handy for driving with an open window because they shield you which is a lot more convenient than without. I went with the tinted ones for my T4 and it really covers my open window crack quite nicely!
Cheers and save travels!
I saw someone use a magnetic company logo on their van so they don’t get parking tickets they also put a hard hat on the dash with a clipboard with papers or “work orders”. So it looks like a work van
Brilliant idea but I’d also add some opened crisp packets and empty drink bottles to add some tradesman ‘authenticity’.
I stealth camp almost every night in a city. You won't get rid of the condensation in the winter unfortunately. Next time park with a vehicle behind you, then you are protected if there was an accident especially if you sleep with your heads by the rear doors. I park down cul-de-sacs and quiet roads.
Your making me remember when a recovery truck tried to steal my van in L’pool 👍 good idea , park in the middle of a row .
I used a heavy duty tent groundsheet as a screen behind the front seats. It was totally blacked out but more importantly it acted as a vapour barrier so that no moist air reached the front windows. No steamed up windows. It needed to be closely and tightly fitted around the edges.
Great video as always. What I have is some Heko wind deflectors on the front windows, then I can leave the windows open just a cm or so and no rain can get in and you can’t tell from the outside. The ventilation helps prevent condensation. As long as you aren’t snoring when someone walks past!
Had these too for my little vito years ago, great for ventilation and they look good too!
Love the Idea.
There is something so romantic about being able to wake up anywhere in the world of British car parks.
Together.
You could go one better and sleep in Doorways.
In regards to a misty windscreen we have fitted on our t4 wind deflectors and then open our windows down about 1 inch, this makes an insane difference in the morning and when cooking. We have fitted a curtain rail and some thermal curtains so the cold doesn’t effect us too much with the windows open slightly.
Let us know how the anti fog goes!
I would want a thicker curtain, any lights you have on will show thru that one you used here. scent free cat litter works to absorb moisture, a sock or stocking filled and laid on the dash will suck up moisture at night and either be dried by the sun or the vehicles defroster vent, a cotton bag of salt will also help
I think you’ll want a proper black out curtain to separate the front cab area from the back. Just as you can easily see through the black sheet in the day, people outside will be able to easily see through it at night, when you have the light on.
London is relatively easy for sleeping in a vehicle, as long as you avoid the stuffy ultra respectable areas. A bit like Cambridge, there is a long established history of people doing it. To be a bit safer, I'd have a daytime parking spot, and a night time one too. When I did it, cooking was easiest in recreation ground car parks (leave by mid afternoon to avoid the 'yoofs'). To be fair, I avoided 1930's streets, preferring the 1960's / 70's areas. Easier to find somewhere with less than 3 or 4 houses that can see you. A few metres into a cul de sac, drive in at 9 pm, dive over the seats into the already prepared sleeping area, and off again before 5 am. Admittedly, I'm not as middle class as you, so have to be more careful.
Someday I hope to do what you're doing and beating the high cost of London. Two suggestions: 1. For that moisture, look into crystals that pull water out of the air. They have names like "DampRid." Boaters use them. 2. To look less conspicuous, particularly with an old van, add roof racks with a ladder or two. Then get a sign shop to make a magnetic sign for a business.
The condensation solution is either don’t breath ( not practical) or ventilation. easy to achieve! To maintain stealth and security a roof vent is a help but if you have wind deflectors you can have the cab windows cracked to get some wind assisted ventilation and no one will notice the ‘security breach’ the downside will be sound transmission in and out, but as you are sleeping not partying and are on a residential street not a main drag it shouldn’t be an issue.
Been stealth camping for about 11 years, I love it me and the dogs, open road and off we go lol. Enjoy the vids 👌
Tackle condensation by placing moisture-absorbing items in your car. One effective measure is filling an old sock or pair of tights with cat litter. The clay particles in cat litter are excellent at absorbing excess moisture
Came here to say this. Just don't use any cat litter but the crystal kind. It works like a charm.
@@ssebb2020 Thanks
Not too much though, else you wont be able to get your shoes on.
The one thing to be very VERY careful of when doing this is that if someone does phone the Police and they turn up at the van and you are both over the legal drink-drive alcohol limit then you can be charged with being in charge of a motor vehicle while over the limit. Even if you don't intend to drive anywhere... If only one of you is then the other is "in charge of the vehicle" when the Police ask...
I Stealth camp everywhere, I use reflectix in my windows, I didn't know that this film exists! I'll be buying some as soon as I've measured my windows tomorrow. As others said, wind deflectors are a must but they don't completely solve the issue. You do see vehicles with steamed up windows so don't worry too much about that. I carefully place a small light such that the source can't be seen through my cab curtains. I even use my diesel heater in built up areas, most people have no idea what the sound is so might stop and be puzzled but move along when they don't see anything of interest.
Glad to see you got a steering wheel lock, I use one too, especially in big cities where car break-ins are more common. Make your van look like a work van. Leave a yellow vest, a hard hat and a clipboard in the front. I've never seen that spray on vinyl sheeting used before....good idea! They do make those moisture absorbing products you can place on the dashboard or you can make one by taking an old sock and filling it with kitty litter. Also, just keeping the inside of the windows as clean as possible helps, so there is nothing for the moisture to cling to. Good to see you having a fun time in London and cheers to stealth camping.
Then theives would think there's loads of tools in the back... Duhhh
The kitty litter is a specific kind. More like crystals. I’ve not tried this but folks say that it works. Best of luck!
make it look like a moving business van, because why would there be something in the back
@@passkat in finnish ur name is rude lmao
I'd never stealth camp in such a high crime city as London.
If you’re not stealth camping, I think external window covers are good for preventing internal fogging of the windscreen. Like a full cover that sort of hooks around thew tops of the doors.
Barbasol shaving cream is relatively ok for condensation. Put it on the windshield, rub it in, then whipe it off.
London for stealth much easier than people often believe. So ubiquitous and busy, you can remain anonymous in so many ways. And then the buses and trains are just brilliant to get around. Ive heard many frustrated campers irritated about condensation, we found the only thing for us was when we had good air-con, soon clears when you start up.
Den James, I tink I need your help , as I am picking up my french van next week and bring it back to london where I need to work for a week , any recommendation on where to hide ;) close from a tube :) would be very welcome
Condensation: simply do nothing, other than open the windows about 1 - 2cm. Cover seat bases with Towels in case of rain (it'll wake you if it rains hard and you can close windows). The condensation itself forms a privacy barrier and nobody looks closely enough at the van to notice; remember most people are quite wrapped up in their own world. Partner & I have stealth camped in my Peugeot 405 Estate in this way for over 10 years. Security: Steering Lock is good, but a Wheel Clamp is better.
I had two little re chargeable dehumidifier squares that removed all the moisture from my super damp windows. Got them on Amazon and love them, you could place them on the front seats. Love the black wet window covers, great idea!
Did you use rain x ? Rain x is supposed to be excellent. I think rubbing the window with a potato is one way. I know I've seen a few videos on you tube lately that tell how to get moisture off but I didn't pay any attention. Search for those. You might just have too much moisture in there and no matter what you're going to get it on the windows. You would need ventilation or a device that absorbs moisture. Search for that. Also after a while spraying your windows with water is going to rust the window frames. Use as little water as possible. Spray the plastic lightly or dab water on it with a sponge.
Three years stealth camping just north of London in Stevenage. No real problems apart from a few weeks of hearing every noise outside I think your mind just plays tricks on you. Anyway great video guys😊
You need a silent exhaust fan to draw out the moisture and bad air whilst getting clean fresh air into the van. Improve your air quality and get rid of moisture and exhale waste products.
In order to get rid of condesation you need a rooftop with a fan and wind deflectors in your windows, that way you can keep your windows a bit open enabling good air flow
You can put a little kitty litter in a mesh bag and hang from the rear view mirror. That will help absorb all the water in the air.
Lovely video thanks. Not sure if it has been mentioned but kitty litter tied in a double sock eliminates fog and condensation in vehicles. Cheap and effective. Just leave it on the dashboard of a night. You can just change it out after several weeks when it gets too saturated.
I recognised the Halfords in Staines you stopped at, you could have parked up in the little lay-by just outside the barrier to that carpark right next to the river thames and stayed there too, its a 20 min walk to train station along the river and a 45 min train trip to Waterloo.
Hi Beans,Great film.Condesation pots,They use them in caravans.If not bye a heavy duty car battery,Charge it up,Use it to plug a heater in.Just an idear,Keep safe.One love X.
I have the same steering lock and it prevented the theft of my van, the thieves who tried to steel it cut through the steering wheel trying to remove it, when you fit it you have to lock it with the two hooks either side of one of the steering wheel spokes, if they cut the wheel it leaves a tee shape so you still can't remove it,
For condensation, I recommend a solar power, ceiling fan , zero condensation, Plus a window deflectors and open the window, a tiny bit on each side for airflow
There are humidity control things, such as those little things you find inside of medicine bottles that say, "Do not eat." I don't know what the legal status of Cannabis is there but, around here, we have these little packs that are bigger than the ones in medicine bottles for drying out the buds and that should help without making it too dry (which might not be a problem where you are but it can be here). Also, definitely crack the windows. If someone bothers you, you can always say you're making a TV series of some sort or doing some sort of an experiment. This should work unless it's a cop and maybe even if it is a cop.
I had some cops try to shoo me out of a public park by lying to say that the park was closed. I simply told them, "If the park is closed, then why are the bathrooms still open?" They had to leave and then I stayed there until someone did come around to lock the bathrooms. Then I never stayed near those bathrooms again because there were some yuppie's houses too nearby. Hey, they were the ones who moved in by the public park so that means they're going to have to deal with the public using said park and tough shit if they don't like it.
You can buy demister bags which can lay in the front by the window, however the cheapest and works a treat is a pair of socks, some You cat litter, the silica crystals one, only a few quid. Pour into said socks, knot the end and lay on the dash underneath the window, sorted. You could get ingenious and do some for the other windows if you can find a way of attaching them to the bottom of the windows. Good luck.
Kitty litter absorbs condensation, spread it out as much as you can in the cab in low boxes, and fill some socks with it and put on the dashboard over night.
Also, temporary pull the rubber seal on the front doors back corner (and wedge a little gap with something it still doesnt gap)
This has definitely been an educational video for someone who's been wanting to stealth camp for such a long time! You might've just pushed me over the edge to finally give it a try! Keep up the great work guys! You two are awesome!
Halfords used to sell big silica bags for cars dehumidify it and since you're so tight you can heat them up/cook them to dry them out in theory like a biscuit tub
Get a small dehumidifier. That would sort the front out. Plus separate the cab from the back. Hang a couple of dry towels up to absorb the moisture.
to put your black plastic on use a rubber squeegee it takes out all bubbles and it doesn't scratch your plastic. humidity inside crack the window a hair to let out humidity. or stop by a sports shop for divers. underwater divers. they have a spray they use on their goggles. so when underwater they never fog up.
For added security (against theft of the van itself), you might want to invest in a Bearlock. This is a mechanical lock that securely locks the vehicle in reverse gear. Not cheap, but effective...
The girls from camper vibe have a video on this.
Yorkshire poptop adventures has also just got one fitted. Get in touch with them, I'm sure they'll give you a discount. 😉
Brilliant video. I love that you make a game out of finding free spots to camp, that's ace. We are moving from our lovely Kev T5 to a big burly Crafter next year and have already blocked off our bulk head so that we can essentially camp anywhere. Here's a tip for you. When you put your rock and roll bed away just roll up your mattress topper and duvet into the back of the van. Then push your seat up and throw your pillows into the back. When you want to make the bed just pull out unroll and tuck it in. Saved us loads of time and hassle messing around with stuff. Basically a rock and roll bedding set.
Stealth camper, Steve Wallis, always cracks the windows just a tiny tiny bit to prevent the fogging.
and make sure to have plenty of step number 2
Use FAIRY LIQUID on the windows. I lived in a house with aluminium window frames - the condensation was unreal. Every night before I went to bed I got a cloth, put fairy liquid on it, smeared it over the windows - initially, it doesn’t look great, but when it drys in the windows look ok. No condensation in the morning whatsoever - it works. Good luck with your travels.
Oh tough 2:40 you got the 1.9 diesel? what you want is the 2.5 TD benefits,
Smooth 5 cylinder engine
60 mpg on the open road
Top speed 110 mph
Lifting tailgate can be used as veranda in rainy conditions
Alloy wheels
But 900 a pop for the catalytic.
Also for keeping the fog low, you can buy a dry dehumidifier made for rvs OR a couple of socks full of rice set on your dash will help a ton.
I've stealth camped in London and other cities and towns. In the days when I was training, I used to have early court hearings (I'm a lawyer) all over the country and I would get there the night before and find a spot to park overnight so I could be in nice and early. I went on nights out in Hoxton a couple of times and "stayed over" (before ULEZ). So I definitely relate to your video 👌
I do stealth camping all over UK and inside the M25 area a lot for work. Have a basic set up in back. But so far never had problems.
Just one train station car park in London that my van got a lot of attention with from youths ( Only parking in London I found for free from 6pm till 8am lol).
An one spot where I had a man walking up and down all night checking the van out. Expecting he was after my DPF. Think my night heater on trickle all night, is why he wouldn't approach.
The app park4night gives some useful places to park and sleep in London too.
The best stealth vehicle is a beaten up white van (sign painted?) with no windows and the bulkhead. A small ventilator on top should be OK so long as it's not making any noise.
Shaving Foam against foggy windows. Leave it on the inside of the windows for a few minutes then rub it off with a dry cloth. XXX Also a sock filled with cat sand helps for extra absorption.
blackout windows are essential for stealth . I dont even have windows in the back of my sprinter van. but when I had my Toyota Previa I did exactly as you did with the blackout curtain and stick black for the windows. Never had a prob in years
Nothing beats inside condensation like an air flow.... either leave a crack of window open overnight (but buy and install an upper some inches wide wind deflector to hide it and protect from rain) or install a roof hatch... the counterpart is you gotta get good duvets too then to not be freezing inside, and not be noisy (snoring, farting or other usually blaring events happenning)...
You really don't have to stealth camp in London. Been loving in mine for 2 years looks like a camper van never had a problem. As long as its taxed and MOTed no worries.
thanks for sharing 👌, any tips for parking spots 🤔? thanks in advance ! 👍
A Ti p.....Always buy aa van with no windows ....Windows are a Dead Giveaway...Remove the bulkhead ..A good curtain to replace the bulkhead...Cab looks unoccupied...Stealth Camping I love It!!!!
here on the wirral you can sleep overnight in your van for free. the best places are
harrison drive , from new brighton to the coast guard tower
fort perch rock car park . new brighton
caldy
west kirby
thirseston common
hoylake
parkgate
any more than one night and the council are a bit iffy . anti gypsy laws .
Yeah, I've done it in North London when visiting family (amongst other places).
I open windows a crack but also leave boot and side door open (and locked) on the latch. There is/was a device available from JK (Just Kampers) to extend the gap and enable locking with the boot open a few cm. Seems to work depending on whether you park with the side door pavement or road side (road side is best as pedestrians move past slower than vehicles and notice more anomalies). Will still steam/feeze up in very cold weather.
(The gizmo is for the boot, not the side door)
Oh, and really obvious when the hibernating bear I seem to carry with me gets going (hhm, wonder where it goes in the morning?).
Enjoy and carry on😉
With regards to the condensation. Buy wind reflectors for the windows, then leave them open 1cm or so. Secondly, get something like a max-air fan above the bed. That should sort it out. You need constant airflow to stop condsation.
For condensation try white rice in an old sock. It may take a few but it should keep the van a bit drier. It's also great for storing clothing long term.
Get a can of aerosol shave cream. Smear it on the glass. Let it dry thoroughly then polish off with a cloth. Works on bathroom mirrors and such. Also just barely crack a window open, not enough that you can tell from outside.
Hi. Just take a toothpaste on a cloth and rub over all windscreen from inside. At start it looks toothpaste marks but keep rubbing and then toothpaste settled in windscreen micro holes which eye can’t see. Actually all vapours appear because of these micro holes in windscreen. You will see the difference next morning.
Adding alcohol into the mix add another level of risk. 1. If you get asked to move and the avoid any unpleasantness, you cannot simply drive away there and then. 2. I'm genuinely not sure how the police would view this, being possibly over the legal limit, on a public highway. Great video, thank you. Go careful with the 🍺🍺🤣
First thing I thought when they went off to drink and got back in the early hours is ‘drunk in charge’. Parked on a public highway, intoxicated in the back of a vehicle, whatever your intentions, would land you in court.
If no one has suggested it, spread a thin layer of shaving cream...the foaming type...then wipe it off with a soft cloth or paper towel. Your condensation problem will go away. Anytime you put water or some kind of cleaner on your windscreen, you will have to do it again. But since it's so cheap, it's worth it. Good luck & stay stealth-y!
plus condensation. get a bag of kitty litter and fill two long socks with it and place them under the front windscreen
Bloody legend of a couple!! Total goals. Cool stealth camp vid too 😎
Shaving foam works as a cheap but effective anti-fog. Give it a good rub over the glass, then buff it off.
Shaving foam, micro cloth, wipe all over windows & polish till all clear, Tryed and tested... 👍
To avoid condensation can I suggets a net bag of schoolroom chalk. Break it up increase the surface area. Chalk is very good at absorbing moisture.
If you are breathing in the van in winter you will get condensation. Ventilation helps but then you get cold. External thermal window covers are the best but not at all stealthy. Also you cannot drive away in a hurry so best kept for when you are on a campsite.
Another great video - Steering wheel lock is a great addition, we use on all our cars, just gives a visual deterrent that might put someone off and move on.
You didn’t test the rainx or mistx whatever it’s called but a cheap alternative put a couple of drops of washing up liquid on a damp cloth only a couple mins and wipe over the inside of your windows leave it to self dry that works.
Also get some of those moisture traps and crystals leave in the van when not using keeps everything dry and fresh mind the liquid afterwards it’s nasty stuff but good for killing weeds.
What’s that film called looks really handy.
We just converted our car into a micro camper and we have a lot of trouble with fog as well!
Might be worth investing in some deflectors, they attach to the windows and can let you open the windows a crack to get some good air flow in
Hey guys, I looked on Amazon and they have small, cheap, battery operated, wireless Dehu’s for $15-30 for up to 333 sq. ft. Just the front portion of your van can’t be too difficult to keep dry. Great videos, loved your Scotland tour, quite a scenic adventure!🍻🍻
As a truckdriver who sleeps in a truck often we use heavy vinyl curtains between the cab and sleeper and the truck is vented. If it's too cold a diesel heater is cheap and quiet to run ( off your fuel tank) I've never had condensation because it's vented . Maybe crack a window open slightly.
Brilliant move cinematically with the call to the other travel vlogger for advice on her city. Seamlessly integrated and a great way to network and collab. You all should do this in every new city you go to as a way of building your base even more and adding something clever to the videos.
Yeah, true, but on the other hand, giving out your safe parking spots on the interweb... lets hope it doesnt get swamped by vans, or by those who leave their rubbish behind. As a truck driver, i would never reveal my secure parking spots on a public forum. Too many parking places have been closed because of inconsiderate so and so's, who give the good (quiet and clean..) a bad name.
Great vid as always!!! As per Grant below, you need air flow to takeaway the moisture you breath out overnight. This is easy with a solid roof ( max van or similar on the lowest trickle setting), HOWEVER as you have a pop top not so easy. Wind deflectors do hide a slightly opened window, and no rain in etc, but trade off is slight noise ingress. Be sure you havn't covered over the passive vents built into the body ( often a small grill / slot inside the door / panel covers) they go to rubber vents that allow air out but no water etc in. Common hidden around / under door pockets in front doors of vans, and at rear down low ( and vent out behind bumpers).
I used shaving cream on the windows and windscreen it was awesome against condensation, You wipe it on white, and wipe it off and no condensation overnight.
We love our T4 (30 years old 92 reg) and find it extremely easy to park up in sneaky urban spots as it’s SWB, the only problem is it’s a high top so stands out far more if you’re looking down the street. Love the video.
(not read all comments, so this may be repeating what others said) I get massive problems with condensation, simply from leaving my car unused for weeks in the Winter - so I buy those crystals that come in tubs to remove damp. I got some great ones from Tesco - but they seem to have stopped supplying them, so I bought a load from the internet and they turned out to be pretty useless. However, it may be that they started to absorb moisture and then froze up and thus were rendered useless. There is obviously a cost to the stuff and refills - or you might figure out what the chemical is and buy it direct, but at least it is not draining your battery or making a noise.
As a Diver, we used washing up liquid to stop our masks fogging - I think it is something to do with the water's surface tension.
Another idea might be to use domestic triple glazing film... this sticks to windows with double-sided sticky tape, then you use a hot air dryer to heat-shrink it taught and it is magic stuff, but to fit it to a van window you might also want some kind of light spacer - perhaps a frame made from balsa wood and bluetack that to the windows and then put the film taped to the balsa strip frame. I'm basically thinking that anything that puts an air gap between the interior and the glass might help eliminate condensation. It is probably a good idea to use some kind of damp eliminator - because that moisture is going to end up somewhere and that's probably anything absorbent - like carpets and upholstery, so it might end up giving you mould problems.
you can easily modify and instal a pull up (or pull down) black curtain. use it when you want eliminates the need for preparation
It really seems like a big hassle to stealth camp in Great Britain. I live in the States (Montana) & when I go on road trips I'll boondock or sleep in rest areas. Walmart parking lots are also popular & located in most cities. They usually don't mind, since they figure you'll shop there. I'm happy that you're having fun with the challenges.
A couple of socks full of dishwasher salt on the dashboard will cure that problem of condensation, we use it in our Dougalthecampervan.
Easy fix. Fit wind deflectors. That will allow you to leave the front windows down about 1cm without anyone being able to see the windows are down slightly.
I’d second the wind deflector suggestion. Nobody can tell the window is open a fraction and it makes a world of difference. I have been using my van as an office and don’t get condensation despite being here for hours.
Get a thermal blackout curtain - or make one yourself! The fabric is pretty cheap on ebay. It completely blocks the light from outside and in, so you can't be seen at all. Your bedsheet is basically see through if you have a light on! The thermal curtain also keeps the back pretty warm, I find if I stick my head into the cab its freezing in comparison.