Hope you enjoyed the video! P.S. Tip Number 12 is the most important one, so hopefully you can all implement it to protect yourselves better than us.. Thanks so much for watching & share it with others who you think need to improve their security 💓💪🔐
In the event of a fire while inside or crashing into a large body of water. You won't be able to shatter the window to get out. Hope u have at least one window without the film.
@@FEARNoMorethe ordinary glass breaking hammers that you get will break windscreens that have the film actually _inside_ the glass, I don't think that's as much of a worry as you suggest. I would like to see evidence though.
Lots of exterior cameras are what work for me. If anyone gets close, I get an alert on my phone. I can then yell or, hit an alarm or at least video what’s up. For night, I have inexpensive motion lights all around my TV. Whether an animal or criminal, get within 10 feet of my home and bright lights will go off. Always close and block windows while gone. Sometimes I leave on the radio to the internal or/and external speakers at a low volume so people think I may be home. But my #1 is motion activated video cameras. All around.
@@mickeygamble1237 Oh get over it. Every one of us has ancestors who came from somewhere else….Yes, even you! Even Native Americans originally came from somewhere else. We are ALL of different nationalities. As far as skin tone is concerned, none of us are completely caucasian nor completely anything else, if that’s what you are trying to say. From my perspective, we are all just humans and it’s time we all act like it. In Illinois where we live, there are perps of all backgrounds and colors. That’s just not as important to others as much as you want it to be.
I’ve been burgled a few times over the years and I’ve learned a thing or two from the experience.Burglars are in a rush and steal what they can see.They don’t steal what they can’t see.So when I bought a campervan the first thing I did was build a secret compartment that I stash my iPad and portable leisure battery in whenever I leave the van. Simple but effective.
Excellent advice Gary, we would defo advice building security in from the very beginning. Sorry to hear you've been burgled too, thieves are such scum.
For alarm idea, I installed one called "the screecher", the description mentioned something along the lines of a demented canary. It's triggered by door opening and starts off with a nice subtle reminder to turn the alarm off but if you don't it switches into evil mode and it literally rattles your brain and the only thought is to get the hell out.
I installed train horn on my truck, wired up to the regular horn (with a switch, can be turned on/off.) Leave it ON when setting up alarm. Who ever is breaking into my rig, hope they’re wearing earplugs 🙉 😁 It would scare a bear away; true story. Worth installing. Stay safe 🤟🏼
If you have a safe, and you'll be parking for a while, you can remove the fuel pump relay and store it in the safe until you're ready to drive away. This way there is no way the thieves can start your vehicle unless they happen to be carrying the same model relay with them, AND are able to diagnose why the engine won't start.
Another great idea and one which most burglars won’t even consider. For those campers who don’t have a safe, one good hiding place for that relay might be an under-the-floor compartment. There are some which are placed near the wheel well, others are in the middle of the floor, but they all line up with wooden floor boards. There are probably even little “hidden rooms” that could be built into a bus just about anywhere for hiding stuff. That would be fun to experiment with.
I believe there is an easier way to disable the vehicle. But it will mess with electrical system if living area is electrically connected to cab. Making any electrical security inoperable
@jeniphersocha6896 that's why I like the fuel pump relay idea. Once you know where it is in your vehicle, it is very easy to remove. And once removed, everything works fine. But even if you have the keys, or if you try to hotwire, the engine will crank but won't start. Diagnosing the issue would take seasoned mechanic hours, and then they would need to go find some place to buy the same model relay.
My husband is a professional window tinter. Watching him is like watching a master at work. He has learned how to do the details that really make a difference. A professional is worth hiring!!
Does he do that thing which makes a van look from the outside like it's a panel but it's really a window? From the inside you can see out of it. It was featured on a van in America and I wondered whether you could do that here....it is colour-matched to the van paint....
My deadlocks all round saved my van from being stolen/broken into this weekend. I have crow bar marks on my drivers door frame where someone has tried to bend the window back to get to the handle inside the door. Without deadlock they would have gotten in. Also handy tip for anti smash film, buy a cheap window tint kit that is templated for your glass, then use that as a template for the film.
James that is a genius idea about the glass template!!! Would have saved us a lot of mental anguish 😂 Sooooo sorry to hear about the attempted robbery, man am I glad to hear your deadlocks saved your van. Some people are such jerks, I'm sure that was a shocking thing to come back and see. Hopefully you can get the body work repaired ok. So glad the van is safe 💓💓🔐🔐💪💪 sending you lots of love and safe vibes.
In the event of a fire while inside or crashing into a large body of water. You won't be able to shatter the window to get out. Hope u have at least one window without the film.
Adding security to prevent people from getting in also means you’re preventing yourself from getting out .. be aware that you need a way out in case of a fire, and because you live in the van there is a risk of fire or whatever. So get into a habit of knowing which doors you’re locking while you’re in the van or which ones are unlocked so if something happens you’re not wasting time struggling to unlock something because you surprise yourself it’s locked still.
There are at least two different types of deadbolts in stores where I live: ones which require a key to open or to lock it either from inside or outside, and the other type only requires a key when outside, but if you are inside they have a knob to turn left or right and it will lock or unlock the deadbolt without a key. The drawback on that one with the knob is that burglars can break a window and unlock it for themselves. Of course, it would also be helpful to install sliding bolts, one at the upper edge of the doors and one below the level of the bottom of the window. Those are simple bolts and will only serve to slow down the perp-if they are smart enough to look for them. These sliding bolts are also a lot less expensive than a deadbolt.
Not gonna lie, as a previous tinter...i got a kick out of yall trying it yourselves to save...and thank you for being honest on how many tries it takes without experience. Theres a reason why its 300 for 2 windows😉
I installed these on the rear doors. (Twowinds Anti-Theft Locking, Security Lock with Plug H1 H2 Roof Rear Gate Ducato Jumper Boxer X250 X290). They fit between the bolts in the existing holes, so they can be installed in 10 minutes without drilling holes. The pen can be removed in one smooth motion with one hand in an emergency, which I think is very important when you are sleeping in it. I further secure our cabin doors by guiding the seat belts through the handles and clicking them into place. The sliding door is barricaded at night by a custom-sawn slat between the 'U' shaped bumper and the kitchen unit. This can also be removed from the side of the 'U' block with a simple movement in an emergency. I also have a hidden tracker, I always lock the steering wheel with the wheels turned to the curb and I place a clear red steering bar when leaving the van.
All absolutely brilliant recommendations!! Very well protected! Have also had some security issues in your past? Sometimes it seems like people only take security seriously once you learn the hard way haha. Appreciate all the advice here, will defo look into this twowinds thing then we are back to Martha!
The tips you gave were great. But one good one another van lifer had which is great is motion cameras around your van. There great for security if you’re away or inside. Stay safe
I would pick a wheel boot (the sort of thing the parking cops use when they boot/clamp your car until you pay up) over either a steering wheel lock or a pedal lock. Much more of a visual deterrent (and will make a potential bad guy re-consider even approaching the van if their plan is to steal the whole van) plus it means the van can't be physically moved even with a tow truck or something.
The radio on too so someone seems to be inside Bumper stickers about Guns Rights and Second Amendment and some saying that ends in “My Smith & Wesson” LOL At a campground, leave big old men’s hiking boots or cowboy boots outside the sliding door. Buy em at a goodwill, size 13s at least!
A hidden vehicle isolation switch, so the engine cannot be started. Passenger seatbelt thread threw door handle? attach to fixing, prevent door being opened.
If the antismash film that you buy is not Lexan polycarbonate, return it. In the States the main supplier is 3M, and video/news vans use it. The only was to smash the glass is to break out all four corners and wrestle the whole piece out. At their price? No bubbles, invisible to see, and I've had it over 25 years with no defects.
Thank you for this tip! I was concerned the film would not be clear enough for me, or do an adequate job, but Lexan should be nearly as clear as glass with legendary strength.
We also have cameras on the outside of the van. If someone can see that alongside the CCTV sticker, maybe they would be less likely to break in as they can clearly see you do have cameras
Are they wired inside and connected to one circuit? Philly would love a reversing cam, not for security but just so he doesn't have to get me out of the van all the time haha!
@@phillyandkeely Yes one on each side of the van that are all connected to one screen inside. I don't know how you can cope without a reversing camera! 😱
@@phillyandkeelyreversing cameras are brilliant! Especially if you back up to walls & bollards to protect the doors. Get ones that work in low light though (check the reviews) if you're putting them on the sides.
A good thing about living in a van, you can have a lot of non-weapon weapons inside. EG: A big butcher knife, Foam fire extinguisher, Golf clubs, etc, and all would be reasonable to carry in your van at all times. Most people wouldn't consider a fire extinguisher a weapon, but it actually a very effective one, you can be several metres away from the person, and if you spray in their face, they will retreat! Make sure it is foam or CO2 though! It will be a bit of a mess afterwards, but totally worth the clean up!
Thanks so much 🥰🥰 glad to hear there was new Info for you ❤️ and defo take heed of tip 12 and go take pictures of serial codes if any electronics so you can report to police if ever stolen too 💪 thanks for kind words ❤️🙏
Motion sensor device that detects motion when they get close to van outside and truggers noise device.😎👍 Also small sign each side that sez protected by Ruger.
Hi guys. I'm so sorry that happened to you. I couldn't think of the name, so I just google'd it.. You need to use HASP FITTINGS to hide the screws. It uses a second piece of steel that flips over the screws. Cheers from Oz 🔆
I think that's more necessary for fittings outside the van though - to stop thieves being able to lift off the plate, yes? But they fitted those fixtures internally
@@susie9893 Yes. But I thought they'd put one on the sliding door outside. Anyway, it makes sense either way, I know because I was beached exactly because of not using a Hasp....
Ive got a medieval bar lock on the inside of my rear doors, like the way a castle is locked. Cheap and efficient. If we sleep off grid i use ratchet straps between both front doors.
I really enjoyed your video and learned so much! I did see another video that suggested always, always backing into a parking space, never go in forward. That way, if someone tries to break in while you are sleeping, you can jump into the driver's seat, start up and quickly pull out. And I agree with everyone else, you guys are such a cute couple!
Mechanical engineer here. When drilling into metal, you should protect/cover the blank metal surfaces with some anti rust protection/primers/however it is called in English. Specially if you establish contact between different metals of the galvanic series (steel isn’t equal to other steel, for sure not stainless steel), without insulation you literally build a battery and the less noble metal will experience galvanic corrosion. That is usually the metal of the coachwork and your van is a bunch of rust in an instant, the humidity is sufficient to start and maintain that process. The closer you drive to marine water the faster the corrosion process, the salt amplifies that battery effect.
applying film onto windows when it is hot is not to impossible to do it without total frustration and a melt down. Stay cool, and apply film early in the morning or in the evening after the temps drop.
When we eventually take delivery of our Campervan in August, our main worry is leaving it unattended..Thanks so much for this vlog & really valuable information... Love you guys, Take care, Steve & Ang ❤
Thanks Steve and Ang, so glad you found it useful 🥰 hopefully it will reduce your anxiety about leaving the van. We are still worried lmao, I'm hoping it will pass with time. Today we left it at a climbing crag and felt like I was getting PTSD because of the last climb we got robbed haha
Watched a programme a couple of years ago about car thieves. Some bloke put a sticker on his window saying nothing of value was kept in the car. The Thief left him a note after breaking in, it read "just thought I'd check anyway".
Very useful vlog both. I've got a transit so probably the easiest van that gets broken into. So fitted a few extras to hopefully put people off cuz to much hassle stealing, going to do the door chains next. Another good idea to stop someone actually taking the van is to remove one of the main fuses. Hope you're both having a wonderful time in France and loving the adventure. Love and Hugs Both ❤
That's a genius idea about the fuse!!! Thanks so much, glad to hear you are protecting your van. Hopefully the more and more people improving security thieves will stop seeing them as easy targets lol, wishful thinking haha.
Excellent tips! I never even knew about the antismash film - I was broken into within my first three years in the road and that’s exactly what they did: smash the window. I had an alarm and everything and it didn’t stop them. I lost EVERYTHING even my life’s art portfolios. It’s a horrible time and these tips will help you prevent all of that loss.
Thanks very informative . As far as the sticker goes . Most thieves don’t care about a sticker . The sticker says to them “ please wear a mask if you’re going to break in here “ . So I think use the camera to get evidence so there arrested . I wouldn’t even holler at them . There not leaving till they get what they want . The thief is thinking well if you’ve got my face on camera already I’m going to be charged no matter what . Might as well do whatever I want . I love that the camera is in there . The chains are a great idea also . So many great ideas .
Thanks David, glad you found some of the ideas useful!! 🥰🥰 The hope is that the opportunistic thieves will be put off by the sticker, some thieves will get into no matter what, but a lot of them are looking for an easy target, at least we can make ours not look too easy lol! Or else it draws more attention, honestly who knows 🤣🤣🤣
Understand that putting an anti shatter film on your windows could make it difficult for you to escape in the event of and emergency and you're unable to open your doors.
The worst case scenario is if you somehow end up in water. You have less than a minute to get out the windows before you have to wait until the vehicle fills completely with water, at which point your chance of survival is drastically reduced. They make tools that can quickly puncture the glass, but I don't know whether they would work with the film. It's worth asking to make sure you have a plan. It's not just about which is more likely, but what's the cost if the worst case happens. Stuff is replaceable. People aren't.
@@therealninjess my brother was caught under water during a flood with his wife and his 4 year old. That happened in the city, there was just so much rain they couldn't see where they were driving and somehow ended up submerged under a bridge. They had to get out fast through the window and were thankfully able to save everybody. The car was totaled however. Like you said though, stuff is replaceable, people aren't. that's not a risk worth taking.
A back door chain lock would have me concerned. I am 76 years old and travel full-time alone. If I ever become incompasitated that an ambulance and stretcher is needed, a chained back door would hamper any rescue service from getting me out of my van! Some type of inside lock that can be unlocked from the inside and doesn't require a key may be better.
We only lock it with chains when we are leaving the vehicle unattended, not while inside it 🥰🥰 kudos on the full time travel in your seventies! That's so good
We've met significantly more older generation on the road than younger, I think social media is pretty skewed in that way, it's definitely more older people on the road 🥰🥰💪💪 trying to encourage my parents to come on a roadtrip together would love that
@@phillyandkeely If mine were still around, I think they would love the chance to travel, too. They both grew up during the Great Depression and their families had next to nothing, no cars, just walked everywhere. So being able to travel in comfort is a huge luxury.
@@phillyandkeely Here in Oz we call them 'Grey Nomads'.. They're probably known the same all over the world. And, why wouldn't you lol. Houses, work, kids, work, bills, kids haha.... Chasing 25°C sounds so bloody nice right now. Yuwhl 🎉 🚐 😉
Thanks for all the tips guys we will now be putting some security mods at the top of our list for the new van build. Also surely you cant miss out on the merch opportunity of a sticker saying “2 Tools stay in this van overnight” 🤣🧡🧡
I'm hoping to get a van soon... an idea I have for added security is a fictitious business name... I'm thinking something creative and catchy but still deters thieves, like a plumbing and septic van, so nobody thinks there's anything that they want to mess with. Or like "hazardous waste cleanup"... nobody is gonna mess with that!!!
They broke into my hazmat clean up trick and stole thousands of dollars in equipment. Maybe mobil grooming? Flower delivery? Its a short list of what companies dont leave expensive equipment or merchandise loaded every night.
Be aware that many places, neighborhoods and even some US highways, do not allow commercial vehicles access. Such a sign would designate you as commercial.
Leaving a radio on in the van with all the blinds closed so they can not see if you are in there or not will also put them off breaking in. Use a rechargeable mp3 player or radio that will last for 5 or 6 hours on a low volume so it can only be heard when they are very close to the van will more than likely make them go and look for an easier and safer target.
Hi guys, we are early stages of our van build, felt so much pain for you when we watched your break in video. Thanks for your tips, taking some away for our van for sure! Stay safe...
Thankyou so much, defo implement some of these safety measures in your build 💪🔐 so glad to know this has helped you for your own van security 🥰🥰🥰 hopefully if we all better protect ourselves people will stop seeing vans as easy targets 🙏
The simplest and really efficient security is to leave a radio on inside the van with blinds on windows. i do this in my home too. They would rather break into somewhere where they are 100% sure that no one is home.
@@phillyandkeely i saw this tip on a programme where a criminal injail was interviewed and they asked him what was the best way to protect your home from break ins !! 😍
This is a great tip! My stereo is designed to stay on for an hour after the ignition switch is off so I can take advantage of that automatic feature for short trips away and pull out the emergency radio if I’m going to be gone longer. Thanks so much for sharing!
Your video just popped up and so I watched your professionally done video all the way through. Great job! 👏🏻 Great content! 👍🏻Thanks for keeping it real.😁 I’m so sorry you got hurt closing that safe. It looked painful! 😫 What a delight to find the two of you! 💝💞💝🥰 I subscribed. ❤
I’m curious to know if anyone has used those realistic soda, soup, bug spray, etc cans to successfully hide cash and other small valuables in a break in? Or are thieves already wise to these things?
Putting a camera sticker will warn the intruder to cover their face. Having external lights which are motion activated and loud audible alarm are more effective as they raise alarm with the people in the area and that i think is a bigger deterrent. Most cameras have motion detection which will send you a message and also give you a speaker to talk bake from. This can be used to inform that the police are on the way. You can put a ring door bell or some thing similar, in that way you can speak as if you were in the van.
Thankyou George! I did wonder that myself about the CCTV thing. Food for thought! Yeah big bad ass alarm is needed I reckon! Thanks for the advice, always appreciated 💓
@@phillyandkeely a good prank would be a smoke bomb, it’s disorienting, surprising the intruder and is used as non letal measures by police to disperse people
A CCT camera, smash-proof glass and deadbolt locks would probably deter most thieves, but I appreciate all the information given here. I have an interrupter to cut off my car's battery that would keep someone from jump-starting it. Perhaps having that would give van owners some additional peace of mind. You seem like lovely folks. I'm sorry your van was hit. Unfortunately, it's really easy for thieves to unload stolen property on EBay.
Modern tech enables: 1. install a brain-like mini-pc (for a bridge) with wi-fi router for home automation apps - think FOSS. Many of those steps can then be automated to ease processes. 2. insurance needs disrupting...invest the savings otherwise wasted on insurance, in top 50 stocks (index funds) or a high interest account app.
Really outstanding video. Your multi layered approach to security was thoughtful and shared with honest reflection and humor. Thank you I will utilize many of your suggestions as I progress and plan my build.
This was SO SO helpful!! Again, I'm so sorry you went through this.. but thankful for your sharing tips with the rest of us (specially the good practice of parking in the open, taking pics of items, and insurance bit!). I wish you happy and safe travels! ~k
How are you guys not in the 10Ks of subscribers? The content is there; you're like hobbits, small and likeable...it means that we need to share your videos more.
Yes please do that would be awesome 🤣🤣 thanks so much, we really appreciate that, we put a lot of love into our videos, so really hope that shines through 🥰🥰
Excellent vid guys ~ really informative. Didn’t even know anti smash film existed!! Great tips on keeping serial codes and receipts ~ thank you both stay safe :)
Glad it was useful, really hope it helps more people be better protected if it ever happens. If even one other person can prevent this from happening to themselves then it will be a silver lining to what we went through 🥰🥰🥰💪🔐💪🔐
I used stiff paper, like 8 1/2 x 11 card stock or open file folders. I placed them inside between the window glass and frame and taped them together till the whole windrow was covered. I added more tape to make it one solid piece. Then I used a black sharpy to trace the windows opening right to the edge of the glass. Then I took it out and cut the extra around the edges and used that as my templates.
Phily/Keeley. Do I love your vids, if only you did one every day😁. Great content, informative, useful and most of all entertaining. It's like learning something with fun thrown in. Schools should take a leaf out of your book. I once locked my keys inside the van and watched the AA guy brake into the van in like 20 seconds 😕. Proper disheartened as you can imagine. I've got a little place where I store important items and I don't think you'd look twice and think "mmmm, I wonder". Looking forward to the Paris post. See you soon 😁
Thanks man, really appreciate that. Crazy that he managed to get in 20seconds, that's so gutting to hear! Honestly that makes my heart hurt a little lol, hopefully these extra measures make it a lot harder!!
~11.11 into the feed. You could turn this into a money gravy train on why you should get smash proof glass film professionally installed. Sure, some souls are doing it tough. But other souls are still at the precipice and have some options. Especially those in new builds and have not yet moved into their van. This could turn into an advertisement for why smash proof film should be professionally installed. You have promoted smash proof film, did your own home "on the cheap" and given a "heads up" so that others with choice can make the professional install choice in their early build stages. Win. Win. Win.
Excellent summary and some new ideas for us, thank you! We use stickers, but like you have no idea if they do the right thing. If you have home insurance, you can add van contents to it too. x
Thanks Nadine, so glad it's gave you some new ideas!! Hopefully this will help alot of people think about their security more carefully 💪🔐 Good to know other people also unsure about effectiveness of stickers haha, but we have them anyway!
Anything that slows someone down can prevent a break in. People usually are afraid to draw attention to themselves or make a lot of noise and want to go the path of least resistance, so if it’s not easy, they most likely won’t do it. Good work!
Thank You so much for your time and tips for staying safe. A lot of people never think about things like that and it could happen to anyone especially if you're not aware of your surroundings. Thank You, God Bless and Safe Travels
I'm making this comment before the first minute of your video so if you mention this later in the video just ignore my comment. Harbor Freight has small safes that can be easily bolted down to the floor of a van with the nut inside the safe which means when they try to remove it the bolt will just spin inside the safe. You could keep things like your passport, a handgun, maybe some silver bullion or coins, your house keys etc. in one of these to help secure it. I do this in my motor home. It works really well. Plus, it helps you keep from misplacing these important things once you make it a habit.
@@phillyandkeely Yep, I saw it right after your "coffee break" segment. Sorry you closed your finger in the door. that didn't look like it felt very good.☹ I was also watching the "closed circuit TV" segment and I have heard that some of these even have the ability to store video on the cloud. Therefore, you don't need an SD card (which could be stolen) to keep a video to later show the police. Also, having a dog that travels with you can be a pretty good deterrent to thieves. Even a chihuahua can make a lot of noise when someone they don't know comes around. It draws unwanted attention for a thief. Just make sure it doesn't get too hot in there for your pet's safety. Our motor home has air conditioning and we are usually in an RV park with full hook-ups so our fur baby is safe in there.
Nice editing. Great wee number as usual. Get ya yourselves over to Scandinavia while the weathers easier. Pop into me for some veg and free park up laughs. All the best guys, keep at it
@@phillyandkeely ain’t much but ya never know when an easy deal pops up eh! All the best guys, hopefully you won’t get anymore cheeky wee shits trying to break in.
maybe a sticker from a (local) law enforcement agency, but otherwise no stickers. I would choose a motion sensor for your alarm, maybe something like a ring camera type, where you can receive notices on your phone app when you are away from the van. You are right though. Reports say that it only takes 30 seconds to steal a vehicle. The more time they have to take trying to get yours, the less likely you are to have your vehicle stolen.
Directed is the big company that owns most of the name brand alarm companies. I have rocked cheep no name alarms in more then one vehicle for numbers of years with no issue. It's really up to the install. The modules(brains) are almost all the same. Almost all do shock sensing(2 stage). Doors, trunk, and hood triggers. 2way remotes don't normally work very far unless line of sight. But the display is nice if you can't remember if you locked up or not. Other then that try to find a loud horn. Something that isn't a car alarm. I have used sirens to air horns. Nobody looks at a car alarm nowadays.
For the D-Rings on the back doors, put the d rings on the inside panel mounted so that they are in a vertical orientation (IE the hole of the D is horizontally accessed) then just get a long cross bar, carabiner or lock to bridge between the two
Great tips! Thanks. We also always turn our seats with their back to the side windows/doors, to make it more difficult for thieves to get in and harder to quickly drive away... And we have heosafe locks on the cabin doors. Enjoy your trips, I'll enjoy your videos then!,
Great video guys. Fantastic tips. Personally I think that signs just draw attention. I'm building a luton stealth camper at the moment & I'm installing a very loud alarm, external security lights & inconspicuous external video cameras. I'm not gonna carry anything super valuable but the invasion of my home might sour my experience. Peace of mind & knowing I've done all I can will help. Happy camping. Chris ☘️
Yeah brilliant to install the security up front. We say that with future vans we would plan security from the get go! Maybe build some hiding spaces aswell. I think video camera, tracker and good insurance are the best for peace of mind being able to check on the van.
I have a Beretta logo left by the PO. I don’t own a gun but I thought it might make someone think twice about messing with me…or perhaps they’ll think hey, maybe I’ll score a firearm if I break in? 😂
You two kids are so adorable and I loved your video. Those tips you shared are very good ideas. My sons and I are hoping to get a bus and refurbish it to live in, so naturally good security is on the top of my mind, too. Your tips will be figuring high on the list of steps to take, especially the window film! My idea for a template is to take a paper grocery bag, smooth it out flat, tape it over the window and trace around the edges to get the general shape. Then take that piece and place it back on the window and carefully finesse the final template. Measure twice, cut once….or so my Dad taught me. Happy travels to you sweetie pies! 😊
Great video! Really useful info. Thank you for sharing. I'm happy you two are resilient and able to learn from and adapt from the theft and keep traveling. More climbing content please!
I really hope no one breaks into my van when I get out. I'm a pensioner so replacing things would take a long time. I don't have a lot of gear either so not a lot to steal anyway. Thanks for the tips. I noticed the previous owner of my van put a padlock on the sliding door for extra security. I didn't have the key so bought another padlock the same.
Two girls traveling together like this really DO need extra security, not only for the van, but for themselves as well. So don't forget your bear spray, pepper spray, air horn, stun gun and firearm. They will keep you safe !!
So sorry you were broken into... that's hard. I am getting my suv ready for some long road trips, so these sort of tips are helping me figure what I can do to be prepared. To be honest, I was thinking of putting the little sign on my car windows indicating that livestreaming is in progress. So many people are streaming on YT these days... seems believable. I was already looking into the anti-smash window film. Good idea there. For my small valuables like passport, spare cash, etc, I bought a little gun safe but I'm thinking of attaching it into the secret basement of my vehicle, which has a hinged cover and mat covering... and then a ton of heavy stuff on top. My suv is a 2004 model that when I hit the car alarm from my key fob, the anti-theft device not only locks the doors, but they cannot be unlocked and opened by hand from a smashed window. They can only be unlocked by the key fob itself. What I would LOVE to find is an extra alarm that is actually the sound of 2 growling vicious dogs which could be activated upon suspicious activity around my vehicle. The door chains and locks are a bit overkill for me. To get back in your vehicle, at least one door has to be without one, so... but if everything you own is in the van, it may make sense for you. I enjoyed watching. You two are a hilariously lovely couple.
Thanks so much Joanie 🥰 the anti smash film is very frustrating to install but definitely worth the hassle. That's brilliant about your alarm fob, this would be a great addition to our security I think
I'm amazed you are both still alive. Paranoia might be an issue. I secrete an ex-police truncheon when I am camping. Old school. Watch out for homicidal elves. They can be a nuisance. Love and peace.
Thank you for the tips in this video. especially the anti smash film. I did not know it even existed before watching this. Will definitely get some fitted to my van 🙂
Great video. We've got cctv which I think is probably a great deterrent because an intruder would be aware that even looking in the window will have shown their identity. I may be deluded in thinking that discourages someone. We have hiding places that are really not easily found. I have considered leaving an old broken laptop around (not in full view to encourage a break-in) so if anyone does break in they would quickly take that rather than look for the good one. I can't imagine a thief would sit there and fire it up to check it works. Things like steering locks and pedal locks are all well and good but I wouldn't put them on to pop into a supermarket because it's too much faff for a short time away, which is probably when a thief would strike.
Thankyou so much 🥰 yeah we have heard of other people using decoys, I think it's a great idea! Hiding places are a good shout, we thought we had good hiding place under the bed, turns out that was very obvious haha, so definitely found some better spots since then lmao. CCTV is our favourite new install, being able to see into the van is just amazing, we check it obsessively haha, hopefully the more time that goes by the more at ease we will feel.
I can tell you what I do and have never been broken into. I have motion sensors that connect to wireless recording and connected to speakers. The volume is wide open, and the best part is that the sound is large, mean dogs barking and growling. Until there's no more motion detected, it waits for the next motion until I turn it off.
You can make magnetic stickers with a logo on, like "home cleaning" What indicates, that there is no expensive equipment inside, or "pest-controle". And when not needed, don't hang the stickers, since they are magnetic.
here's a little tip, create a flip down wall pocket hidden within the back wall of a cupboard or create a drawer under the cupboard with your skirting board as the drawer front. there are lots of little things like this that can either be retro fitted or incorporated into the design.
Thanks for these tips, secret hidden compartments are defo a good shout 💪💪 we have some retro fitted now, but in a future van we would love to build them in to the design
I appreciate the chain lock. It definitely will slow them down but I'm thinking if there is a way I could deter them prior to wanting to smash my glass. Honestly, in some ways having an old rickety looking one (like you can switch one and off the body) sounds promising but I would want it to drive like new along with it being a solid van.
So glad you found it useful!! 🥰🥰 Honestly that means so much to hear someone might install an extra measure after seeing this video, don't want anyone to experience what we did 💓💓
Just a tip for ANY window tint or security film: go to a hobby/ craft store & buy LARGE rolls of tan craft paper. Use that to make the window templates! Do this FOR EACH WINDOW! Even manufacturers can slightly differ from window to window by fractions in production. And by using the craft paper, your not using your EXSPENSIVE security/ tint window plastic. Also, in America at big box hardware stores (i.e. Home Depot / Lowes) you can rent professional Heat guns to use.
I use a normal front door chain on my sliding door, with 2 settings so I can have air circulation, too. I have a dash cam, front and rear, that plugs in the back, so always on. With WiFi. 2 mini cameras on roof either side. Steering locks are so easy to get off, see UA-cam! Chain and padlock around steering wheel and peddles.
Security is something we all can learn from. I'm very conscious about safety as a resident of California where crime is rampant. Whatever I choose my criteria is that it has to be easy to install, relatively cheap, and relatively effective. I have security warning stickers, steering wheel lock, and a simple ultrasonic alarm on the upper corner of the van that goes off with any motion. I realize these are only deterrents but gives me some peace of mind when out of the van. BTW each one of these takes less than 5 -10 minutes to install and very inexpensive. There is also a very inexpensive power cut off switch that can be easily installed that I haven't done yet. The RV cannot be started with it engaged.
I've gotten so used to car alarms being a useless security measure that it took me awhile to work out why this might be good for a van. I was also going to stay that it's not exactly stealth, but, considering how common these are, I guess it would be completely normal in the city and totally alert you to someone breaking in. I'm not sure if it would be a good idea if parked in a rural area though. Might get triggered by wildlife and thereby draw *attention*. I think I'd want to be able to turn it on and off easily
All great ideas! For the sticker one I would get 3 "beware of dog" ones. Then install an alarm that sounds like a very, very aggressive dog! That's what I'm gonna do, plus have my dog with me. I also have signs that say forget the dog, beware of owner that is packing. Good luck and loved your video
Yeah the list of items serial codes for insurance is something we never would have known if we hadn't experienced it, so hopefully this helps other people makesure they have everything they need if the worst happens. Appreciate you taking time to comment ❤️❤️ good luck on anti smash film 😂😂🥰🥰
The no trespassing sign on my ranch in Montana reads: Owner has gun and a backhoe 😮 I agree that stickers advertising CTV only attracts attention. Whenever I camp in a really remote spot (either van or tent), I set up trip wires that fire a 12 gauge blank. The blast wakes both me and my dog up and puts us on alert. I'm also a fan of motion-activated lights (coyotes, wolves, bear, and cougar don't care about lights). I never advertise that I carry a gun, but cops and thieves expect Montanans to be armed and capable. ...and Keely, were I to rob you van, I'd take you 😉 You got a real doll, Philly.
Maybe when I was 30-sumptin, but now I'm 40+ years beyond that 😮 I hitchhikers through Ireland 30+ years ago and learned that just because you speak English doesn't mean we'll understand each other 😂 (...and my Grandmother prayed in Gaelic)
The sign that reads Owner Has Gun And A Backhoe could have law enforcement looking for grave sites if someone disappears. So once you put the body in the hole, only fill it about halfway and try to compact the dirt. Then throw in a deer or boar, and finish filling the hole. Be it the looks of the ground or a cadaver dog signalling something is there, most will stop digging once they reach the animal remains. I like trip wires, very effective, including along the treeline on my property. Also have a couple Baby Monitors in the sheds near my house. With them I can here a mouse move, so no way is anyone getting in those sheds without my knowing.
One of the problems with insuring tech is that they won't cover anything over a certain age so for me as someone who only buys new tech when the old stuff breaks, means I can't insure any of my tech. If you're out living a van life it's important to make sure your gadgets are new enough. If they're not, don't leave them lying around in the van because you'll still have to pay full price to replace them.
Great tip thankyou Claudia! At the moment ours is all new because we had to go replace all the stolen stuff haha, so all reciepts kept and serial codes etc. But good thing to be aware of in future when our tech becomes old, we are the same, only buy it when it's broken (or stolen lol)
If you can afford it Would dogs be a good option as well? Ive got a German shepherd I'd like to take on my journey once i buy/ renovate my own van, do you think leaving him in the van on short times away is a good deturance for thiefs or a danger ro his safety?
Well done guys, I'm sure other van lovers will benefit from this. Cctv stickers could work and when you then have it inside and some idiot did get in, then they are done. Take care and all upgrades are fab. X
Carefull we the anti smash film on driver windows. If in a accident the glass turns into a large projectile and can take you head off. Food for thought. Great tips!
Hope you enjoyed the video! P.S. Tip Number 12 is the most important one, so hopefully you can all implement it to protect yourselves better than us.. Thanks so much for watching & share it with others who you think need to improve their security 💓💪🔐
In the event of a fire while inside or crashing into a large body of water. You won't be able to shatter the window to get out. Hope u have at least one window without the film.
You two are awesome! Just found you.
@Stay_tooned thanks so much ❤️❤️
@@FEARNoMorethe ordinary glass breaking hammers that you get will break windscreens that have the film actually _inside_ the glass, I don't think that's as much of a worry as you suggest.
I would like to see evidence though.
Viper alarm
Lots of exterior cameras are what work for me. If anyone gets close, I get an alert on my phone. I can then yell or, hit an alarm or at least video what’s up.
For night, I have inexpensive motion lights all around my TV. Whether an animal or criminal, get within 10 feet of my home and bright lights will go off.
Always close and block windows while gone.
Sometimes I leave on the radio to the internal or/and external speakers at a low volume so people think I may be home.
But my #1 is motion activated video cameras. All around.
Yeah think we might need to get ourselves a wee radio to leave some noise on.
@@phillyandkeelyone with it's own battery!
i wanted to do that ...what have you got
I suggest examining the nationality of perpetrators & face reality. Most are illegal immigrants or those granted asylum.
@@mickeygamble1237 Oh get over it. Every one of us has ancestors who came from somewhere else….Yes, even you! Even Native Americans originally came from somewhere else. We are ALL of different nationalities. As far as skin tone is concerned, none of us are completely caucasian nor completely anything else, if that’s what you are trying to say. From my perspective, we are all just humans and it’s time we all act like it. In Illinois where we live, there are perps of all backgrounds and colors. That’s just not as important to others as much as you want it to be.
I’ve been burgled a few times over the years and I’ve learned a thing or two from the experience.Burglars are in a rush and steal what they can see.They don’t steal what they can’t see.So when I bought a campervan the first thing I did was build a secret compartment that I stash my iPad and portable leisure battery in whenever I leave the van.
Simple but effective.
Excellent advice Gary, we would defo advice building security in from the very beginning. Sorry to hear you've been burgled too, thieves are such scum.
Seat belt through door handles when you are sleeping in van . It doesn't work in every car or van but it's cool if it does.
For alarm idea, I installed one called "the screecher", the description mentioned something along the lines of a demented canary. It's triggered by door opening and starts off with a nice subtle reminder to turn the alarm off but if you don't it switches into evil mode and it literally rattles your brain and the only thought is to get the hell out.
This sounds awesome! I'm gonna look it up!
Years ago there was something you installed in your home where when someone knocked on your door a barking dog would serve as a detriment. 😊🇺🇸
Yes sound! Loud brings attention. No one doing nefarious things wants attention.
I installed train horn
on my truck, wired up to the regular horn (with a switch, can be turned on/off.)
Leave it ON when setting up alarm.
Who ever is breaking into my rig, hope they’re wearing earplugs 🙉 😁
It would scare a bear away; true story.
Worth installing.
Stay safe 🤟🏼
Thats a great ideaa motion sensored dog barking !! Loud@@snowflow07
If you have a safe, and you'll be parking for a while, you can remove the fuel pump relay and store it in the safe until you're ready to drive away. This way there is no way the thieves can start your vehicle unless they happen to be carrying the same model relay with them, AND are able to diagnose why the engine won't start.
That's brilliant!! 💪💪 So good
Another great idea and one which most burglars won’t even consider. For those campers who don’t have a safe, one good hiding place for that relay might be an under-the-floor compartment. There are some which are placed near the wheel well, others are in the middle of the floor, but they all line up with wooden floor boards. There are probably even little “hidden rooms” that could be built into a bus just about anywhere for hiding stuff. That would be fun to experiment with.
I believe there is an easier way to disable the vehicle. But it will mess with electrical system if living area is electrically connected to cab. Making any electrical security inoperable
@jeniphersocha6896 that's why I like the fuel pump relay idea. Once you know where it is in your vehicle, it is very easy to remove. And once removed, everything works fine. But even if you have the keys, or if you try to hotwire, the engine will crank but won't start. Diagnosing the issue would take seasoned mechanic hours, and then they would need to go find some place to buy the same model relay.
@@jdsouzabrilliant, I'll have to remember this! 👏
My husband is a professional window tinter. Watching him is like watching a master at work. He has learned how to do the details that really make a difference. A professional is worth hiring!!
Yeah definitely agree, it's a skill we do not have 😂😂
Does he do that thing which makes a van look from the outside like it's a panel but it's really a window? From the inside you can see out of it. It was featured on a van in America and I wondered whether you could do that here....it is colour-matched to the van paint....
@@carrieboultby7516 Wow! That’s a great idea!
@@carrieboultby7516can you elaborate? Where would i find info on this?
@@carrieboultby7516 Yes! A great idea!
My deadlocks all round saved my van from being stolen/broken into this weekend. I have crow bar marks on my drivers door frame where someone has tried to bend the window back to get to the handle inside the door. Without deadlock they would have gotten in. Also handy tip for anti smash film, buy a cheap window tint kit that is templated for your glass, then use that as a template for the film.
James that is a genius idea about the glass template!!! Would have saved us a lot of mental anguish 😂 Sooooo sorry to hear about the attempted robbery, man am I glad to hear your deadlocks saved your van. Some people are such jerks, I'm sure that was a shocking thing to come back and see. Hopefully you can get the body work repaired ok. So glad the van is safe 💓💓🔐🔐💪💪 sending you lots of love and safe vibes.
Good tips to avoid mental anguish. :0)
❤️💪🔒
In the event of a fire while inside or crashing into a large body of water. You won't be able to shatter the window to get out. Hope u have at least one window without the film.
@@FEARNoMore that's a very good point. It's just the side windows, so I presume we will still be able to get out other ways 🤞💪
Adding security to prevent people from getting in also means you’re preventing yourself from getting out .. be aware that you need a way out in case of a fire, and because you live in the van there is a risk of fire or whatever. So get into a habit of knowing which doors you’re locking while you’re in the van or which ones are unlocked so if something happens you’re not wasting time struggling to unlock something because you surprise yourself it’s locked still.
Great advice 💪
Safely getting out quickly was my first thought watching the chain and back door security option...
Well said 👏 🫠❤
The chains are only for whenever we are leaving the van alone, not while we are inside it.
There are at least two different types of deadbolts in stores where I live: ones which require a key to open or to lock it either from inside or outside, and the other type only requires a key when outside, but if you are inside they have a knob to turn left or right and it will lock or unlock the deadbolt without a key. The drawback on that one with the knob is that burglars can break a window and unlock it for themselves. Of course, it would also be helpful to install sliding bolts, one at the upper edge of the doors and one below the level of the bottom of the window. Those are simple bolts and will only serve to slow down the perp-if they are smart enough to look for them. These sliding bolts are also a lot less expensive than a deadbolt.
Not gonna lie, as a previous tinter...i got a kick out of yall trying it yourselves to save...and thank you for being honest on how many tries it takes without experience. Theres a reason why its 300 for 2 windows😉
Soul destroying 🤣🤣
I installed these on the rear doors. (Twowinds Anti-Theft Locking, Security Lock with Plug H1 H2 Roof Rear Gate Ducato Jumper Boxer X250 X290). They fit between the bolts in the existing holes, so they can be installed in 10 minutes without drilling holes. The pen can be removed in one smooth motion with one hand in an emergency, which I think is very important when you are sleeping in it. I further secure our cabin doors by guiding the seat belts through the handles and clicking them into place. The sliding door is barricaded at night by a custom-sawn slat between the 'U' shaped bumper and the kitchen unit. This can also be removed from the side of the 'U' block with a simple movement in an emergency. I also have a hidden tracker, I always lock the steering wheel with the wheels turned to the curb and I place a clear red steering bar when leaving the van.
All absolutely brilliant recommendations!! Very well protected! Have also had some security issues in your past? Sometimes it seems like people only take security seriously once you learn the hard way haha. Appreciate all the advice here, will defo look into this twowinds thing then we are back to Martha!
The tips you gave were great. But one good one another van lifer had which is great is motion cameras around your van. There great for security if you’re away or inside. Stay safe
Great tip! I think we will be adding external cameras in the future too 💪💪
@@phillyandkeelyinfra-red & low-light ones are also good for reversing at night!
I would pick a wheel boot (the sort of thing the parking cops use when they boot/clamp your car until you pay up) over either a steering wheel lock or a pedal lock. Much more of a visual deterrent (and will make a potential bad guy re-consider even approaching the van if their plan is to steal the whole van) plus it means the van can't be physically moved even with a tow truck or something.
That's a great idea!!
I personally would recommend a motion/sound activated Bark Box. If triggered a ferocious, loud dog barks & gurgles. No one wants a mad dog attack
That sounds awesome, gonna look into one of those!
The radio on too so someone seems to be inside
Bumper stickers about Guns Rights and Second Amendment and some saying that ends in “My Smith & Wesson” LOL
At a campground, leave big old men’s hiking boots or cowboy boots outside the sliding door. Buy em at a goodwill, size 13s at least!
@@YeshuaKingMessiahThat boot idea is pretty good
A hidden vehicle isolation switch, so the engine cannot be started. Passenger seatbelt thread threw door handle? attach to fixing, prevent door being opened.
Excellent additions, thankyou, been meaning to install a kill switch for a while
If the antismash film that you buy is not Lexan polycarbonate, return it. In the States the main supplier is 3M, and video/news vans use it. The only was to smash the glass is to break out all four corners and wrestle the whole piece out. At their price? No bubbles, invisible to see, and I've had it over 25 years with no defects.
Great recommendation, I would use 3m next time 💪
Thank you for this tip! I was concerned the film would not be clear enough for me, or do an adequate job, but Lexan should be nearly as clear as glass with legendary strength.
We also have cameras on the outside of the van. If someone can see that alongside the CCTV sticker, maybe they would be less likely to break in as they can clearly see you do have cameras
Are they wired inside and connected to one circuit? Philly would love a reversing cam, not for security but just so he doesn't have to get me out of the van all the time haha!
@@phillyandkeely Yes one on each side of the van that are all connected to one screen inside. I don't know how you can cope without a reversing camera! 😱
@@phillyandkeelyreversing cameras are brilliant! Especially if you back up to walls & bollards to protect the doors.
Get ones that work in low light though (check the reviews) if you're putting them on the sides.
Where did you buy yours and which brands are good?
Yes, that's my plan too. Have heard good things elsewhere, even from ppl just parking cars in the city (need to have 1s that are motion activated)
A good thing about living in a van, you can have a lot of non-weapon weapons inside. EG: A big butcher knife, Foam fire extinguisher, Golf clubs, etc, and all would be reasonable to carry in your van at all times.
Most people wouldn't consider a fire extinguisher a weapon, but it actually a very effective one, you can be several metres away from the person, and if you spray in their face, they will retreat! Make sure it is foam or CO2 though! It will be a bit of a mess afterwards, but totally worth the clean up!
Yeah that's a great idea 🧯
Not to mention the canister of a fire extinguisher, even a small one, makes for nasty blunt force trauma in close quarters.
I recently got few packs of AirTags for my jackets, bags, etc. Just as an extra chance to get things pinged. 😊
They’re great until every single one needs their battery changed at the exact same time because you bought it in bulk 🤣🤣
There was a few things that I never thought of in your list, like the anti-smash glass. Loved the video!
Thanks so much 🥰🥰 glad to hear there was new Info for you ❤️ and defo take heed of tip 12 and go take pictures of serial codes if any electronics so you can report to police if ever stolen too 💪 thanks for kind words ❤️🙏
Motion sensor device that detects motion when they get close to van outside and truggers noise device.😎👍
Also small sign each side that sez protected by Ruger.
Thanks for the recommendation ❤️💪💪💪
Or they break in to steal your Ruger.
I bought a wheel lock for my car.
It can be removed by firce but it will take a day.
Less than $100 on Ebay. 😊
Hi guys. I'm so sorry that happened to you. I couldn't think of the name, so I just google'd it.. You need to use HASP FITTINGS to hide the screws. It uses a second piece of steel that flips over the screws.
Cheers from Oz 🔆
Thanks Jaya, I will look this up ❤️
I think that's more necessary for fittings outside the van though - to stop thieves being able to lift off the plate, yes? But they fitted those fixtures internally
@@susie9893
Yes. But I thought they'd put one on the sliding door outside. Anyway, it makes sense either way, I know because I was beached exactly because of not using a Hasp....
Ive got a medieval bar lock on the inside of my rear doors, like the way a castle is locked. Cheap and efficient. If we sleep off grid i use ratchet straps between both front doors.
Great ideas 💪💪
I really enjoyed your video and learned so much! I did see another video that suggested always, always backing into a parking space, never go in forward. That way, if someone tries to break in while you are sleeping, you can jump into the driver's seat, start up and quickly pull out. And I agree with everyone else, you guys are such a cute couple!
Aww thanks so much guys! That's a great tip about parking!
Mechanical engineer here. When drilling into metal, you should protect/cover the blank metal surfaces with some anti rust protection/primers/however it is called in English. Specially if you establish contact between different metals of the galvanic series (steel isn’t equal to other steel, for sure not stainless steel), without insulation you literally build a battery and the less noble metal will experience galvanic corrosion. That is usually the metal of the coachwork and your van is a bunch of rust in an instant, the humidity is sufficient to start and maintain that process. The closer you drive to marine water the faster the corrosion process, the salt amplifies that battery effect.
Thanks so much for all this advice and knowledge ❤️💪appreciate that
Use brown paper roll to make your template first. You can get it at any crafts stores or dollar store s here in the USA 🇺🇸 . Thanks for the tips
That's a great tip about the craft paper!! Will defo use that next time 🥰🥰
applying film onto windows when it is hot is not to impossible to do it without total frustration and a melt down.
Stay cool, and apply film early in the morning or in the evening after the temps drop.
@@janetfolkerts5827 great advice Janet 🥰🥰
I was thinking aluminum foil might be easier for a template.
When we eventually take delivery of our Campervan in August, our main worry is leaving it unattended..Thanks so much for this vlog & really valuable information...
Love you guys,
Take care,
Steve & Ang ❤
Thanks Steve and Ang, so glad you found it useful 🥰 hopefully it will reduce your anxiety about leaving the van. We are still worried lmao, I'm hoping it will pass with time. Today we left it at a climbing crag and felt like I was getting PTSD because of the last climb we got robbed haha
Watched a programme a couple of years ago about car thieves. Some bloke put a sticker on his window saying nothing of value was kept in the car. The Thief left him a note after breaking in, it read "just thought I'd check anyway".
😂😂 that's terrible but pretty funny. I think if I was a thief I would probably check too
Snarky thief 😂 but proves why I believe no stickers
Costs them nothing unfortunately 😢
Very useful vlog both. I've got a transit so probably the easiest van that gets broken into. So fitted a few extras to hopefully put people off cuz to much hassle stealing, going to do the door chains next. Another good idea to stop someone actually taking the van is to remove one of the main fuses. Hope you're both having a wonderful time in France and loving the adventure. Love and Hugs Both ❤
That's a genius idea about the fuse!!! Thanks so much, glad to hear you are protecting your van. Hopefully the more and more people improving security thieves will stop seeing them as easy targets lol, wishful thinking haha.
@@phillyandkeelyor add a switch or move a wire to a different switch (my old van had the ignition on the interior lights switch).
Good idea on the fuse. And you can put it back without having to get out of your van.
Excellent tips! I never even knew about the antismash film - I was broken into within my first three years in the road and that’s exactly what they did: smash the window. I had an alarm and everything and it didn’t stop them. I lost EVERYTHING even my life’s art portfolios. It’s a horrible time and these tips will help you prevent all of that loss.
Oh no I'm so sorry to hear that, especially about your art 💔💔 such a violation isn't it!
Thanks very informative . As far as the sticker goes . Most thieves don’t care about a sticker . The sticker says to them “ please wear a mask if you’re going to break in here “ . So I think use the camera to get evidence so there arrested . I wouldn’t even holler at them . There not leaving till they get what they want . The thief is thinking well if you’ve got my face on camera already I’m going to be charged no matter what . Might as well do whatever I want . I love that the camera is in there . The chains are a great idea also . So many great ideas .
Thanks David, glad you found some of the ideas useful!! 🥰🥰 The hope is that the opportunistic thieves will be put off by the sticker, some thieves will get into no matter what, but a lot of them are looking for an easy target, at least we can make ours not look too easy lol! Or else it draws more attention, honestly who knows 🤣🤣🤣
Understand that putting an anti shatter film on your windows could make it difficult for you to escape in the event of and emergency and you're unable to open your doors.
Yeah we have been warned about this now 🤞🤞 it never happens
My goodness! Didn’t think of this one!!! Thanks
You have to weigh which can happen to you more often
The worst case scenario is if you somehow end up in water. You have less than a minute to get out the windows before you have to wait until the vehicle fills completely with water, at which point your chance of survival is drastically reduced. They make tools that can quickly puncture the glass, but I don't know whether they would work with the film. It's worth asking to make sure you have a plan.
It's not just about which is more likely, but what's the cost if the worst case happens. Stuff is replaceable. People aren't.
@@therealninjess my brother was caught under water during a flood with his wife and his 4 year old. That happened in the city, there was just so much rain they couldn't see where they were driving and somehow ended up submerged under a bridge. They had to get out fast through the window and were thankfully able to save everybody. The car was totaled however. Like you said though, stuff is replaceable, people aren't. that's not a risk worth taking.
A back door chain lock would have me concerned. I am 76 years old and travel full-time alone. If I ever become incompasitated that an ambulance and stretcher is needed,
a chained back door would hamper any rescue service from getting me out of my van! Some type of inside lock that can be unlocked from the inside and doesn't require a key may be better.
We only lock it with chains when we are leaving the vehicle unattended, not while inside it 🥰🥰 kudos on the full time travel in your seventies! That's so good
@@phillyandkeelyI'm in my 60s, this isn't just something for the youth any more (if it ever was).
We've met significantly more older generation on the road than younger, I think social media is pretty skewed in that way, it's definitely more older people on the road 🥰🥰💪💪 trying to encourage my parents to come on a roadtrip together would love that
@@phillyandkeely If mine were still around, I think they would love the chance to travel, too. They both grew up during the Great Depression and their families had next to nothing, no cars, just walked everywhere. So being able to travel in comfort is a huge luxury.
@@phillyandkeely
Here in Oz we call them 'Grey Nomads'.. They're probably known the same all over the world. And, why wouldn't you lol. Houses, work, kids, work, bills, kids haha.... Chasing 25°C sounds so bloody nice right now. Yuwhl 🎉 🚐 😉
Thanks for all the tips guys we will now be putting some security mods at the top of our list for the new van build.
Also surely you cant miss out on the merch opportunity of a sticker saying “2 Tools stay in this van overnight” 🤣🧡🧡
🤣🤣🤣 now that is a quality idea!!!!!
I'm hoping to get a van soon... an idea I have for added security is a fictitious business name... I'm thinking something creative and catchy but still deters thieves, like a plumbing and septic van, so nobody thinks there's anything that they want to mess with. Or like "hazardous waste cleanup"... nobody is gonna mess with that!!!
Haha yeah that's a good idea!
They broke into my hazmat clean up trick and stole thousands of dollars in equipment. Maybe mobil grooming? Flower delivery? Its a short list of what companies dont leave expensive equipment or merchandise loaded every night.
Be aware that many places, neighborhoods and even some US highways, do not allow commercial vehicles access.
Such a sign would designate you as commercial.
Maybe a dog poop clean up biz.
@@dross24MAmaybe a magnet to put on overnight or while you’re not in the vehicle?
Leaving a radio on in the van with all the blinds closed so they can not see if you are in there or not will also put them off breaking in. Use a rechargeable mp3 player or radio that will last for 5 or 6 hours on a low volume so it can only be heard when they are very close to the van will more than likely make them go and look for an easier and safer target.
Brilliant tip Dazza! Thankyou 🥰🥰
Hi guys, we are early stages of our van build, felt so much pain for you when we watched your break in video. Thanks for your tips, taking some away for our van for sure! Stay safe...
Thankyou so much, defo implement some of these safety measures in your build 💪🔐 so glad to know this has helped you for your own van security 🥰🥰🥰 hopefully if we all better protect ourselves people will stop seeing vans as easy targets 🙏
The simplest and really efficient security is to leave a radio on inside the van with blinds on windows. i do this in my home too. They would rather break into somewhere where they are 100% sure that no one is home.
Excellent tip 💪🔒 thankyou 🥰🥰
@@phillyandkeely i saw this tip on a programme where a criminal injail was interviewed and they asked him what was the best way to protect your home from break ins !! 😍
@@Shunyia 💪💪
This is a great tip! My stereo is designed to stay on for an hour after the ignition switch is off so I can take advantage of that automatic feature for short trips away and pull out the emergency radio if I’m going to be gone longer. Thanks so much for sharing!
Won't work for stealth camping.
Your video just popped up and so I watched your professionally done video all the way through. Great job! 👏🏻 Great content! 👍🏻Thanks for keeping it real.😁 I’m so sorry you got hurt closing that safe. It looked painful! 😫
What a delight to find the two of you! 💝💞💝🥰
I subscribed. ❤
Aww thanks so much Diana, so glad the video showed up for you 🥰🥰 really hope the video is helpful for other people ❤️💪
You can make use faux plants, clock, special pillows many types of items in and outside of the van to hide items
Ooooo that's a cool idea!!!! Love that, will have to implement this in future
I’m curious to know if anyone has used those realistic soda, soup, bug spray, etc cans to successfully hide cash and other small valuables in a break in? Or are thieves already wise to these things?
@@MelloCat80 They might recognize them from when they used to hide their own weed. Cops are certainly aware to look for that sort of hiding place.
Putting a camera sticker will warn the intruder to cover their face. Having external lights which are motion activated and loud audible alarm are more effective as they raise alarm with the people in the area and that i think is a bigger deterrent. Most cameras have motion detection which will send you a message and also give you a speaker to talk bake from. This can be used to inform that the police are on the way. You can put a ring door bell or some thing similar, in that way you can speak as if you were in the van.
Thankyou George! I did wonder that myself about the CCTV thing. Food for thought! Yeah big bad ass alarm is needed I reckon! Thanks for the advice, always appreciated 💓
@@phillyandkeely a good prank would be a smoke bomb, it’s disorienting, surprising the intruder and is used as non letal measures by police to disperse people
@@georgesaguna good shout! That would be entertaining to watch on CCTV 🤣
Excellent suggestions! Think about a faraday bag for your electronics. They go in the bag, then put the bag into a container that looks innocuous.
Interesting, I will look this up 💪
Priscilla, I'm interested in why?
@@alanhat5252to prevent detection if the thieves have a way to locate electronics or anything else you may not want to be stolen
@@alanhat5252 Faraday bags work mostly to stop thieves from being able to electronically scan your key fobs.
A CCT camera, smash-proof glass and deadbolt locks would probably deter most thieves, but I appreciate all the information given here. I have an interrupter to cut off my car's battery that would keep someone from jump-starting it. Perhaps having that would give van owners some additional peace of mind. You seem like lovely folks. I'm sorry your van was hit. Unfortunately, it's really easy for thieves to unload stolen property on EBay.
Thanks so much, yeah we've also heard they off load them at local markets/carbootsale type places too.
Modern tech enables:
1. install a brain-like mini-pc (for a bridge) with wi-fi router for home automation apps - think FOSS. Many of those steps can then be automated to ease processes.
2. insurance needs disrupting...invest the savings otherwise wasted on insurance, in top 50 stocks (index funds) or a high interest account app.
Interesting 🤔 thanks for sharing 🥰
I feel like this is written in another language 🦖
@@jeniphersocha6896 ua-cam.com/video/RXJKdh1KZ0w/v-deo.html
The sticker, that ssys, "Have gun, will travel". Is a good one too. Amazon, has some crazy stickers.
🤣🤣 I'm sure Amazon does
Really outstanding video. Your multi layered approach to security was thoughtful and shared with honest reflection and humor. Thank you I will utilize many of your suggestions as I progress and plan my build.
Thanks so much AP. So happy to hear it has helped 🥰🙏💪
This was SO SO helpful!! Again, I'm so sorry you went through this.. but thankful for your sharing tips with the rest of us (specially the good practice of parking in the open, taking pics of items, and insurance bit!). I wish you happy and safe travels! ~k
Thanks Kathi, so glad you found it useful, hopefully some good comes from this in that more people are better protected in future 🥰🥰
How are you guys not in the 10Ks of subscribers? The content is there; you're like hobbits, small and likeable...it means that we need to share your videos more.
Yes please do that would be awesome 🤣🤣 thanks so much, we really appreciate that, we put a lot of love into our videos, so really hope that shines through 🥰🥰
it totally shines through!!! @@phillyandkeely
Also, Fred seatbelt thru doo and hook around steering wheel. Both front doors, if possible.
Great tip 👏
Excellent vid guys ~ really informative. Didn’t even know anti smash film existed!! Great tips on keeping serial codes and receipts ~ thank you both stay safe :)
Glad it was useful, really hope it helps more people be better protected if it ever happens. If even one other person can prevent this from happening to themselves then it will be a silver lining to what we went through 🥰🥰🥰💪🔐💪🔐
I used stiff paper, like 8 1/2 x 11 card stock or open file folders. I placed them inside between the window glass and frame and taped them together till the whole windrow was covered. I added more tape to make it one solid piece. Then I used a black sharpy to trace the windows opening right to the edge of the glass. Then I took it out and cut the extra around the edges and used that as my templates.
That's great advice, much better than us using more film ahah
Phily/Keeley. Do I love your vids, if only you did one every day😁. Great content, informative, useful and most of all entertaining. It's like learning something with fun thrown in. Schools should take a leaf out of your book.
I once locked my keys inside the van and watched the AA guy brake into the van in like 20 seconds 😕.
Proper disheartened as you can imagine. I've got a little place where I store important items and I don't think you'd look twice and think "mmmm, I wonder".
Looking forward to the Paris post. See you soon 😁
Thanks man, really appreciate that. Crazy that he managed to get in 20seconds, that's so gutting to hear! Honestly that makes my heart hurt a little lol, hopefully these extra measures make it a lot harder!!
~11.11 into the feed. You could turn this into a money gravy train on why you should get smash proof glass film professionally installed. Sure, some souls are doing it tough. But other souls are still at the precipice and have some options. Especially those in new builds and have not yet moved into their van. This could turn into an advertisement for why smash proof film should be professionally installed. You have promoted smash proof film, did your own home "on the cheap" and given a "heads up" so that others with choice can make the professional install choice in their early build stages. Win. Win. Win.
Good idea 💡
Excellent summary and some new ideas for us, thank you! We use stickers, but like you have no idea if they do the right thing. If you have home insurance, you can add van contents to it too. x
Thanks Nadine, so glad it's gave you some new ideas!! Hopefully this will help alot of people think about their security more carefully 💪🔐 Good to know other people also unsure about effectiveness of stickers haha, but we have them anyway!
Anything that slows someone down can prevent a break in. People usually are afraid to draw attention to themselves or make a lot of noise and want to go the path of least resistance, so if it’s not easy, they most likely won’t do it. Good work!
Thankyou 🥰🥰 that's what we hope 💪💪
Great sense of humor especially with the window film.
Thanks so much 🥰🥰🥰
Thank You so much for your time and tips for staying safe. A lot of people never think about things like that and it could happen to anyone especially if you're not aware of your surroundings. Thank You, God Bless and Safe Travels
thanks Katherine ❤️ so glad you found it useful. God Bless you too 🥰🙏
I'm making this comment before the first minute of your video so if you mention this later in the video just ignore my comment. Harbor Freight has small safes that can be easily bolted down to the floor of a van with the nut inside the safe which means when they try to remove it the bolt will just spin inside the safe. You could keep things like your passport, a handgun, maybe some silver bullion or coins, your house keys etc. in one of these to help secure it. I do this in my motor home. It works really well. Plus, it helps you keep from misplacing these important things once you make it a habit.
Thanks for sharing Kevin ❤️ we did indeed mention a safe later in the video, so great minds haha
@@phillyandkeely Yep, I saw it right after your "coffee break" segment. Sorry you closed your finger in the door. that didn't look like it felt very good.☹ I was also watching the "closed circuit TV" segment and I have heard that some of these even have the ability to store video on the cloud. Therefore, you don't need an SD card (which could be stolen) to keep a video to later show the police. Also, having a dog that travels with you can be a pretty good deterrent to thieves. Even a chihuahua can make a lot of noise when someone they don't know comes around. It draws unwanted attention for a thief. Just make sure it doesn't get too hot in there for your pet's safety. Our motor home has air conditioning and we are usually in an RV park with full hook-ups so our fur baby is safe in there.
Nice editing. Great wee number as usual. Get ya yourselves over to Scandinavia while the weathers easier. Pop into me for some veg and free park up laughs. All the best guys, keep at it
Thankyou 💓💓 we appreciate the editting appreciation 🥰🥰 veg laughs and free park up!! Sounds awesome.
@@phillyandkeely ain’t much but ya never know when an easy deal pops up eh! All the best guys, hopefully you won’t get anymore cheeky wee shits trying to break in.
maybe a sticker from a (local) law enforcement agency, but otherwise no stickers. I would choose a motion sensor for your alarm, maybe something like a ring camera type, where you can receive notices on your phone app when you are away from the van. You are right though. Reports say that it only takes 30 seconds to steal a vehicle. The more time they have to take trying to get yours, the less likely you are to have your vehicle stolen.
Thanks for the recommendation Wendi, I think a motion sensor is good idea
Again🙌🏽 you guys are the best. The coffee break was genius. 😂 Thank you for all the tips. I def need them now that I am full-time living.
Awesome, hope you are enjoying full time!? Glad you enjoyed the coffee break lol
Directed is the big company that owns most of the name brand alarm companies. I have rocked cheep no name alarms in more then one vehicle for numbers of years with no issue. It's really up to the install. The modules(brains) are almost all the same. Almost all do shock sensing(2 stage). Doors, trunk, and hood triggers. 2way remotes don't normally work very far unless line of sight. But the display is nice if you can't remember if you locked up or not. Other then that try to find a loud horn. Something that isn't a car alarm. I have used sirens to air horns. Nobody looks at a car alarm nowadays.
Air horns sounds like a genius one! And yeah noone listens to car alarms, we've been desensitized. Thanks for the info about directed 💪
Thank you - so useful!! You two are great to watch - great senses of humor even in failure! LOL Keep it up - and safe travels!
Thankyou 🤣💓 gotta laugh eh 😂💓🔐💪glad you found it useful 🥰
For the D-Rings on the back doors, put the d rings on the inside panel mounted so that they are in a vertical orientation (IE the hole of the D is horizontally accessed) then just get a long cross bar, carabiner or lock to bridge between the two
Good idea!
Omg yes, the anti-film! I have been thinking about that and installing myself, so thank you for this content🙌🏽
Makesure if you are self installing to use LOTS of soapy water lol, the wetter the better lol.
Thank you so much! I often wonder about security and you two lovelies have answered my questions and then some. Be safe❤
Thanks Dawn 🙏 glad you found it useful 🥰🥰
Great tips! Thanks. We also always turn our seats with their back to the side windows/doors, to make it more difficult for thieves to get in and harder to quickly drive away... And we have heosafe locks on the cabin doors.
Enjoy your trips, I'll enjoy your videos then!,
That's a great idea for people with swivel seats!! Thanks for sharing. Thanks so much Chris, really glad you found it useful 🥰
Thank you for all of these tips. And so sorry you had to go thru the loss. You are doing a great job. Now go have fun!
Thanks so much ❤️❤️so happy you found them useful!
I love how you share some great info and also have an honest and lovely dynamic together. This is a good channel.
Aww thanks Bill, that's super kind of you to say ❤️
That was a VERY informative and comprehensive guide to van safety. Thank you so much!
Thanks so much 🥰🥰 really glad you found it useful!
Great video guys. Fantastic tips. Personally I think that signs just draw attention. I'm building a luton stealth camper at the moment & I'm installing a very loud alarm, external security lights & inconspicuous external video cameras. I'm not gonna carry anything super valuable but the invasion of my home might sour my experience. Peace of mind & knowing I've done all I can will help. Happy camping. Chris ☘️
Yeah brilliant to install the security up front. We say that with future vans we would plan security from the get go! Maybe build some hiding spaces aswell. I think video camera, tracker and good insurance are the best for peace of mind being able to check on the van.
I have stickers to protect my vehicles, they read "PROPERTY OF THE HELLS ANGELS"
That would definitely stop any theives in their tracks 😂😂
seen protected by a gat, that too works when death of firearm. Plus a saw a van that said this van is empty
I have a Beretta logo left by the PO. I don’t own a gun but I thought it might make someone think twice about messing with me…or perhaps they’ll think hey, maybe I’ll score a firearm if I break in? 😂
Don't use this one if you're not a member of Hells Angels M/C. If seen by an actual member, you could have a very bad day.
You two kids are so adorable and I loved your video. Those tips you shared are very good ideas. My sons and I are hoping to get a bus and refurbish it to live in, so naturally good security is on the top of my mind, too. Your tips will be figuring high on the list of steps to take, especially the window film! My idea for a template is to take a paper grocery bag, smooth it out flat, tape it over the window and trace around the edges to get the general shape. Then take that piece and place it back on the window and carefully finesse the final template. Measure twice, cut once….or so my Dad taught me. Happy travels to you sweetie pies! 😊
That's a very good idea, someone else recommended baking paper/greaseproof paper that would be a good one for template too
Great video! Really useful info. Thank you for sharing. I'm happy you two are resilient and able to learn from and adapt from the theft and keep traveling. More climbing content please!
We are actually climbing in Font at the minute in France so will share a little bit more climbing when that video comes out in two weeks 🥰🥰🥰💪💪💪
I really hope no one breaks into my van when I get out. I'm a pensioner so replacing things would take a long time. I don't have a lot of gear either so not a lot to steal anyway. Thanks for the tips. I noticed the previous owner of my van put a padlock on the sliding door for extra security. I didn't have the key so bought another padlock the same.
Yeah that's a good idea sliding door security 🔐💪
Two girls traveling together like this really DO need extra security, not only for the van, but for themselves as well. So don't forget your bear spray, pepper spray, air horn, stun gun and firearm. They will keep you safe !!
🤣🤣 quality advice
Oh NO!! I am so sorry about your finger!! I am glad this is a child friendly channel😃happy to share wide🤗L❤️ve your tips!🥰
Thanks Helen ❤️❤️
So sorry you were broken into... that's hard. I am getting my suv ready for some long road trips, so these sort of tips are helping me figure what I can do to be prepared.
To be honest, I was thinking of putting the little sign on my car windows indicating that livestreaming is in progress. So many people are streaming on YT these days... seems believable. I was already looking into the anti-smash window film. Good idea there.
For my small valuables like passport, spare cash, etc, I bought a little gun safe but I'm thinking of attaching it into the secret basement of my vehicle, which has a hinged cover and mat covering... and then a ton of heavy stuff on top.
My suv is a 2004 model that when I hit the car alarm from my key fob, the anti-theft device not only locks the doors, but they cannot be unlocked and opened by hand from a smashed window. They can only be unlocked by the key fob itself.
What I would LOVE to find is an extra alarm that is actually the sound of 2 growling vicious dogs which could be activated upon suspicious activity around my vehicle.
The door chains and locks are a bit overkill for me. To get back in your vehicle, at least one door has to be without one, so... but if everything you own is in the van, it may make sense for you. I enjoyed watching. You two are a hilariously lovely couple.
Thanks so much Joanie 🥰 the anti smash film is very frustrating to install but definitely worth the hassle. That's brilliant about your alarm fob, this would be a great addition to our security I think
I'm amazed you are both still alive.
Paranoia might be an issue. I secrete an ex-police truncheon when I am camping. Old school.
Watch out for homicidal elves. They can be a nuisance.
Love and peace.
Thankyou ❤️❤️ I'm surprised we are too 🤣🤣
Thank you for the tips in this video. especially the anti smash film. I did not know it even existed before watching this. Will definitely get some fitted to my van 🙂
Thanks Terry, so glad you found it useful!!
So sorry for the heartache of your break in.
This video is great!!
Stay safe in the future.
Thankyou ❤️
Great video. We've got cctv which I think is probably a great deterrent because an intruder would be aware that even looking in the window will have shown their identity. I may be deluded in thinking that discourages someone. We have hiding places that are really not easily found. I have considered leaving an old broken laptop around (not in full view to encourage a break-in) so if anyone does break in they would quickly take that rather than look for the good one. I can't imagine a thief would sit there and fire it up to check it works. Things like steering locks and pedal locks are all well and good but I wouldn't put them on to pop into a supermarket because it's too much faff for a short time away, which is probably when a thief would strike.
Thankyou so much 🥰 yeah we have heard of other people using decoys, I think it's a great idea! Hiding places are a good shout, we thought we had good hiding place under the bed, turns out that was very obvious haha, so definitely found some better spots since then lmao. CCTV is our favourite new install, being able to see into the van is just amazing, we check it obsessively haha, hopefully the more time that goes by the more at ease we will feel.
I can tell you what I do and have never been broken into. I have motion sensors that connect to wireless recording and connected to speakers. The volume is wide open, and the best part is that the sound is large, mean dogs barking and growling. Until there's no more motion detected, it waits for the next motion until I turn it off.
Love that!!
Love the video thank s for the tips of all price ranges! Love that you share the “fails” too…thanks for being human and real! You’re awesome!
Aww thanks so much Linda ❤️❤️
You can make magnetic stickers with a logo on, like "home cleaning" What indicates, that there is no expensive equipment inside, or "pest-controle". And when not needed, don't hang the stickers, since they are magnetic.
@@enterke 💪 great tip!
here's a little tip, create a flip down wall pocket hidden within the back wall of a cupboard or create a drawer under the cupboard with your skirting board as the drawer front. there are lots of little things like this that can either be retro fitted or incorporated into the design.
Thanks for these tips, secret hidden compartments are defo a good shout 💪💪 we have some retro fitted now, but in a future van we would love to build them in to the design
I appreciate the chain lock. It definitely will slow them down but I'm thinking if there is a way I could deter them prior to wanting to smash my glass. Honestly, in some ways having an old rickety looking one (like you can switch one and off the body) sounds promising but I would want it to drive like new along with it being a solid van.
Thanks guys - this was so useful! Couple of things I’ve done, couple of things I’m planning and some new ideas!
So glad you found it useful!! 🥰🥰 Honestly that means so much to hear someone might install an extra measure after seeing this video, don't want anyone to experience what we did 💓💓
Just a tip for ANY window tint or security film: go to a hobby/ craft store & buy LARGE rolls of tan craft paper. Use that to make the window templates! Do this FOR EACH WINDOW! Even manufacturers can slightly differ from window to window by fractions in production. And by using the craft paper, your not using your EXSPENSIVE security/ tint window plastic. Also, in America at big box hardware stores (i.e. Home Depot / Lowes) you can rent professional Heat guns to use.
That's a much better tip than buying extra sheet haha ❤️❤️
I use a normal front door chain on my sliding door, with 2 settings so I can have air circulation, too. I have a dash cam, front and rear, that plugs in the back, so always on. With WiFi. 2 mini cameras on roof either side. Steering locks are so easy to get off, see UA-cam! Chain and padlock around steering wheel and peddles.
That's a cool idea about the normal door chain!!
Security is something we all can learn from. I'm very conscious about safety as a resident of California where crime is rampant. Whatever I choose my criteria is that it has to be easy to install, relatively cheap, and relatively effective. I have security warning stickers, steering wheel lock, and a simple ultrasonic alarm on the upper corner of the van that goes off with any motion. I realize these are only deterrents but gives me some peace of mind when out of the van. BTW each one of these takes less than 5 -10 minutes to install and very inexpensive. There is also a very inexpensive power cut off switch that can be easily installed that I haven't done yet. The RV cannot be started with it engaged.
That's a good shout with the ultrasonic alarm and the kill switch 💪💪 we will defo be adding these in the future
I've gotten so used to car alarms being a useless security measure that it took me awhile to work out why this might be good for a van. I was also going to stay that it's not exactly stealth, but, considering how common these are, I guess it would be completely normal in the city and totally alert you to someone breaking in.
I'm not sure if it would be a good idea if parked in a rural area though. Might get triggered by wildlife and thereby draw *attention*. I think I'd want to be able to turn it on and off easily
Coffee Break!! Yeah!!
I’m using your tips for ideas to use on my nitro coffee vending trailer. An 8 tap kegerator with a nitrogen generator.
Thanks!!
That's sounds awesome!! Brew us one please 🤪
All great ideas! For the sticker one I would get 3 "beware of dog" ones. Then install an alarm that sounds like a very, very aggressive dog! That's what I'm gonna do, plus have my dog with me. I also have signs that say forget the dog, beware of owner that is packing. Good luck and loved your video
🤣🤣🤣 they are great sign ideas!
We have locks but like some of your other tips we need make z list of items and that anti smash film love that plus insurance tips great thankyou
Yeah the list of items serial codes for insurance is something we never would have known if we hadn't experienced it, so hopefully this helps other people makesure they have everything they need if the worst happens. Appreciate you taking time to comment ❤️❤️ good luck on anti smash film 😂😂🥰🥰
The no trespassing sign on my ranch in Montana reads: Owner has gun and a backhoe 😮 I agree that stickers advertising CTV only attracts attention. Whenever I camp in a really remote spot (either van or tent), I set up trip wires that fire a 12 gauge blank. The blast wakes both me and my dog up and puts us on alert. I'm also a fan of motion-activated lights (coyotes, wolves, bear, and cougar don't care about lights). I never advertise that I carry a gun, but cops and thieves expect Montanans to be armed and capable. ...and Keely, were I to rob you van, I'd take you 😉 You got a real doll, Philly.
Thanks so much Steve 🥰🥰 that's awesome that you set up trip wires, you sound very badass 💪💪
Maybe when I was 30-sumptin, but now I'm 40+ years beyond that 😮 I hitchhikers through Ireland 30+ years ago and learned that just because you speak English doesn't mean we'll understand each other 😂 (...and my Grandmother prayed in Gaelic)
The sign that reads Owner Has Gun And A Backhoe could have law enforcement looking for grave sites if someone disappears. So once you put the body in the hole, only fill it about halfway and try to compact the dirt. Then throw in a deer or boar, and finish filling the hole. Be it the looks of the ground or a cadaver dog signalling something is there, most will stop digging once they reach the animal remains. I like trip wires, very effective, including along the treeline on my property. Also have a couple Baby Monitors in the sheds near my house. With them I can here a mouse move, so no way is anyone getting in those sheds without my knowing.
Could you elaborate on how you set up a tripping wire please? thanks
Nail the trigger device to a tree; string a trip wire; load the trigger device with a 12G blank. You should not use a live 12G shell for many reasons.
LOVE LOVE LOVED this guys - thanks for caring and sharing stay safe I'll be praying for yall!
Thanks so much❤️❤️
One of the problems with insuring tech is that they won't cover anything over a certain age so for me as someone who only buys new tech when the old stuff breaks, means I can't insure any of my tech. If you're out living a van life it's important to make sure your gadgets are new enough. If they're not, don't leave them lying around in the van because you'll still have to pay full price to replace them.
Great tip thankyou Claudia! At the moment ours is all new because we had to go replace all the stolen stuff haha, so all reciepts kept and serial codes etc. But good thing to be aware of in future when our tech becomes old, we are the same, only buy it when it's broken (or stolen lol)
If you can afford it Would dogs be a good option as well?
Ive got a German shepherd I'd like to take on my journey once i buy/ renovate my own van, do you think leaving him in the van on short times away is a good deturance for thiefs or a danger ro his safety?
Yessss dog would be brilliant. The van parked next to us had an alsation inside and it was left untouched 🤣🤣
Well done guys, I'm sure other van lovers will benefit from this. Cctv stickers could work and when you then have it inside and some idiot did get in, then they are done. Take care and all upgrades are fab. X
Thanks Linda 🥰🥰🥰 really hope it is useful to other vanlifers 💓💓
Carefull we the anti smash film on driver windows. If in a accident the glass turns into a large projectile and can take you head off. Food for thought. Great tips!
Woah didn't know that could happen
I saw another video of van travelers while in Central America with window film. They stated in UA-cam that it saved the window from breaking.