I think van life has got so popular now that everyone is competing for the park ups,it’s about being sensible and respectful to everyone around you,including the locals
I don't see a problem. I never park up in public places where others are...not near or within sight of a single other vehicle, van or car, day or night. By remaining quiet and sticking to deserted and wild regions, I have never experienced a single problem during many decades of utter freedom.
@@Globetrotter-1 Yes, when we are in places that are in the middle of nowhere or people aren't aware of the place, we've had the place to ourselves, it's not until we are more near towns and cities ( outskirts) it can be an issue. Not all the time. This is why we prefer the winter months living in our van it's a lot more quieter.. ☮️😊☯️
@@nonlostsouls Yes, I agree, the quiet winter months ❄️ are the best period. I don't use a heater and prefer to just wear goose down clothing to remain comfortable during the coldest temperatures.
Thing is, more and more people are taking to van life, whether it’s influence from UA-camrs or economic or people wanting to withdraw from the system. Councils are fully aware of this and are reducing the amount of overnight stops to try to deter people from this way of living. I always try to park up in remote places but depending on where you are and what vehicle you’re in (mine is a 7x2.4x3.2 motorhome!) sometimes there is little choice! Best thing in that situation is to get up early and move on to somewhere more suitable.
Van dwellers need to start a proper community that has legal representation. I'm sick of certain youtubers not taking people seriously when they raise concerns about park ups and the looming pay per mile charges. This is not a joke, and people need to stop burying their heads in the sand about it. I was seriously considering van life, but sadly, I can see very dark clouds ahead, and I, for one, refuse to ignore them.
Agree. We were just talking about this PPM, but until its implemented there's not a lot we can do, I personally can't see how it would be enforced, and if and when it comes in, we will still continue with this way of life, but maybe become more slowed down then we are now.. This isna topic we will be raising at some point.. Thanks for the feedback intreasting points..☮️😊☯️
@nonlostsouls Irish travellers/gypsies have human rights protections that normal van lifers don't have. Van lifers will have to legally fight for those same rights at some point. Who's going to take up the gauntlet?
Agree, if there are over a couple of vans in a small space, I leave, especially if they have their chairs out etc. Depends on the park up, but locals need to park to walk their dogs etc. it’s like those people that sit next to you on an empty beach then start making a load of noise and leaving their rubbish 😂
Great video guys & all valid points raised As you say it's about etiquette, and respect for others ☯️🙏 There's many who will say that legally they aren't doing anything wrong & people don't own certain spaces, e.g. on road parking outside a house, a view etc & therefore are "entitled" to park there But as history tells us, there's many things that were legal in the past but morally & ethically wrong 😢
Yes, I think what you say makes a lot of sense; at the end of the day it could result in local councils etc being given a convenient "excuse" to say no parkups! It is all about common sense and respect. Blessings xx
If there's a van already parked I just go somewhere else. Never use park4night, looked on it and nothing shown anywhere near where I wanted to stay. Thing is, you can be parked up in a good spot, and in the morning or whenever someone has parked right next to you and you can't even use your side door or sometimes the rear door. Being blocked in is a real problem. I like to be able to leave especially if I feel uncomfortable with the surroundings. Most of it is common sense, which seems to have disappeared, and it's everyone does what they want and they don't care about others. I hate being angry and upset, so I understand how you must be feeling. Take care and relax. You have a lovely home. 🥰😇😊
Agree 100%. Well said. In 4 years I’ve never had the knock, or any aggro from anyone. Maybe because I’m a lone female, but more likely is because I’m using common sense about park ups - staying stealthy, and not taking the piss. I don’t think it should only be full timers who can use these places, and everyone else go to campsites- campsites aren’t for everyone regardless of vehicle or if just on holiday. But everyone wild camping should be respectful and not see it as an entitlement. ( it should be, but we know the uk has a narrow minded view in it, so don’t antagonise I say,) I try not to believe a lot of what I read in social media etc about vanlife problems, I think there is a lot of sensationalism, but we do need to be very careful before we lose this lifestyle
Too many people shouting about ' The Knock' but then we believe it's all for the clicks and views. We've only ever had people knock when they want to ask more about your van and lifestyle, so go figure. Again I think its because we are also considerate about where we park up..☯️😊☮️
I think councils should develop Camping Aires for Van lifers and Weekenders to use. The revenue would be good for the local towns and custom for cafes n shops etc. But i also agree that folk should be more mindful when parking up, so as not to irritate locals.
I agree to a point we prefer quiet park ups im not a lover of big crowds if a place is busy im out, to me the whole point of vanlife is the relaxation the views etc ❤
P.s. first time watching on the TV while dog sitting for Mandee's daughter. Great to see you have great taste in bed covers lol. I've got the same but in blue, with Hares and other creatures on the other side. Keep Loving the Adventure Both. Love and Big Hugs ❤❤
A friend of mine went away in his car and rooftop tent box.first night had a great camp.but his main reason for getting away was to go to the Glenfinnan viaduct.not one parking spot,and people were walking 2-3 miles down a busy road just to get to the viaduct.so he thought he’d go to Glencoe.not one parking spot for miles and miles.so he decided to just go home.fair enough it was the school holidays,but it’s only going to get busier everywhere and more fit for purpose places should be created 👍.✊🙏❤️👌👊😎
I think a lot of fulltimers are so off the radar they're not on here & not experiencing problems. I've totally changed my approach to where I stop since the start of this year, 70% of the time I don't see dog walkers, cars or other vans, occasionally I bump in to a full timer that has set up permanently & not being hassled. Whenever I have a few days off from that & do the tourist thing for a few days I see the no overnight signs, been blocked in, had someone choose to park right next to me instead of 1 of another 50 spaces & start a generator! I've been having a serious think about whether to start properly vlogging how I live my life on the road, a big part of me is like nope keep a low profile.
I think the more of us that highlight the issues then maybe we can change things before it's too late, but then I also think that there will always be a select few that will do things their way regardless of the repercussions.. Thanks for your input..Keep safe out there ☮️😊☯️
Thats why we try to highlight not only the good side but also the difficulties that come with living on the road. It's not all rainbows and unicorns thats for sure.. This PPM scheme will be putting a lot of people off or back into houses.. ☯️
Very good video guys. I agree with your views also. To many people think they are entitled to park where they like and dont give thought to local residents etc Its common sense but some are very selfish. I wish people would stop revealing where they park up because it just entices others to go there and turn it into a big problem where places are just over run. Keep up the good videos and hopefully will catch up with you very soon 😊x
I do agree that van etiquette is crap sometimes but we are all entitled to do vanlife.Weather it’s full time or just for a day and councils need to provide if that’s what the demand is. Loch Lomond is my doorstep but difficult to get a space for locals but I don’t blame the tourists it’s the councils fault. They need to provide Aires like in France as there’s so many more vans on the road, the problems isn’t so many vans on the road the problem is there’s no appropriate parking. I’ve had vans for nearly 20 years now and the change since the pandemic is crazy but it makes me happy to see so many like yourselfs in vans now and out the matrix but unfortunately the bad minority gives vanlife a bad name.❤️🙏
Completely agree with you.. I think more and more will be joining this movement due to the financial crisis we are in or realising they are being played and to get out before it's too late..☯️
There is a legal right to rest from driving if you're tired, that won't change but it's pretty miserable sleeping next to major road where you get buffeted all night by passing traffic. We need a code like leave no trace (the fires and furniture come under this already) polite, respectful and low key would be a good start. People should take a look at how some of the stealth guys do things. Separate day and night park ups, arrive at dusk leave at dawn, no trace ect. Do a bit of litter picking, make yourself known at the local shop or cafe and give van users a better name. Maybe if we can improve our image with locals especially local businesses then people would be more tolerant and we may even eventually get more aire style park ups with water and waste facilities. Those who highlight the bad side of van life will be on the fast lane to losing it, especially if the get drunk and abusive, play loud music and the like. A driving ban is the ban on van life for them.
Agree with you, so many signs going up. The fire risk from van to van spreading in the night is a real issue. It could have happened in Arundel the other week as shown in a vlog by Kev another vanlifer. Safe travels ❤
Yes, we did say we should have filmed the area, we did later just before we were able to move on but by then all but one other van was there packing up their tent, it will be featured in our up coming weekly vlog.. ☯️😊☮️
It goes without saying that it's all about respect for the area you are staying in and respect for the local community. After all van dwelling is temporary in a given area. Leave the area as you would like to find it. Be as inconspicuous/stealthy as possible and stay under the radar at all cost otherwise things will get harder. If this lifestyle is to survive then people need to take steps now to preserve it. It's the same as living in a house on an estate, you want to maintain the local area you are living in. Living in vans is like a mobile version of this, it needs to be preserved as much as possible.
Completely agree with most of what you say. I personally have never had anyone complain about me parking up. My personal rules are. Do not park within sight of a House/dwelling. If another van/car camper is in the spot drive on and find somewhere else. I don't put anything outside, not even my step stool. No bbq's. I don't put my windscreen cover on so as not to make it look like I am staying. I leave early (4.30 to 5.00am) before most Locals are out and about. I also accept that I may have to use a campsite as a back up. There is no Law that says you must free park every night. I have met a few selfish people who will never respect others. The type who don't even respect themselves. If the Government decide to push for a pay per mile system then things may get worse. People may be inclined to stay at parkups longer to reduce travelling costs. I enjoyed your honest and heartfelt video. Stay safe.
I don't know about your country but in my country Scotland if your being honest, far to many do not give a shit about dropping rubbish or emptying toilets or unbelievably doing a shit at the side of a carpark, and in Scotland you do have the right to roaming, but that actually doesn't extend to a vehicle, and Scotland might look wild and desolate ,but it isn't really their are local people pretty much every where, good video. Ps the Dutch people rock.
I had this exact experience, last night (Tues), for the first time in 4 years. Back earlier this year when it was May, l used this spot, and l was always parked up alone. l like to keep it random, as not to become too predictable, as l know people carry mobile phones. I often arrive after dark, and try to leave before the first dog walkers (05.00am), l find l need a sleep in the daytime, so l use NT carparks, the membership is only £8 a month for free parking dawn 'till dusk, it's the only way l can keep up with this lifestyle, lol. Last night 8, xl wheelbase white vans + their unhitches were already there when l arrived at dark, l turned around and immediately left, they were too highly noticeable for my liking. I chose deliberately an unmodified van externally with no solar, or connections etc so as not to give the game away immediately. I do actually park on the road, or anywhere else legally, much in the same way a van owner may choose, to park his van overnight. Maybe it's just an August thing, (travellers), or the beginning of a new trend.🤔
We've arrived at places too and just left as its too busy.. Sometimes the best places are at the side of the road in a residential area or a lovely big layby.. I know it's the time of year and soon these spots will become a lot quieter..☯️😊☮️
Sad to see. But, like you seeing it all the time. If I see more than a few vans in one place I always move on. Same as you, never had a problem with the locals, mostly dog walkers. Always say hello. Leave enough room for people to park. And yes it is the dog walkers that Leave the mess, only a few but it is them. I don't know why they use poo bags cuz they then throw them in the hedge. We need to be like the vanlifers on the continent. Lot more respect 🙏
We so do, when did we become a nation that stopped caring about our country side?. Don't recall it being this bad when we were younger.. Stay safe guys and we shall see you both soon ☮️😊☯️
Spend £2000 running a house then £30-£40 a night camping at a site. The whole lot is f*cked now vans have become so popular. Campsite or cheeky spot. Campsites were a tenner maybe twenty precovid unless its some snobby caravan club one. Not now. Its no wonder weekend warriors like me don't go to campsites. For me its pub stops if ive got enough money but not campsites v much. It is what it is. Something becomes popular and its all over social media adding to popularity and it takes a nose dive in the end as a victim of its own popularity. Same with everything 🙄
Oh yeah, completely forgot about pub stop overs. Our first night in our van was a pub stop over near Tintern Abbey .. We treated ourselves a meal in the pub and had one of the best views ever.. Thanks for your comment..☯️😊☮️
@@nonlostsouls if you aren't careful it costs nearly as much as a site if you end up drinking loads haha, but spend twenty quid on a pint n grub n they usually seem happy enough. I've got an lt28. Mines a total money pit. Wouldnt dare take the thing full time- I'd end up in a tent 🙈
Well said again. We will not park in a spot which is unsuitable 2 or 3 vans max even in big parking places. Well said about Park4Night. Many of the places on there up here are passing places. They can be fined and even lose their vehicle. Here is you stick, we did caravan sites until eight years ago. I had to retire through health and the only way we can do what we do is to do what we do LOL why because the government say I do not qualify for any benefits. Those convoys of vans really annoy me. This seems to be cyclical and comes around every now and again as new folk find it on YT. 3 Police Knocks but nothing nasty always good. One day a local will receive a bag of rubbish from Lindsay LOL. Yes we move on if the chairs and fire pits come out. You talk sense rambling on is good. Perhaps get a group to collaborate on getting the message across.
Oh gosh convoy of vaners really so my head in! No convoy drills so makes passing next to impossible. Parking up in large carparks in a cowboy start circle etc.
I think if anyone uses park4night needs to stipulate maximum to still allow the local walkers. I think sometimes people forget to think of others or just ignorant...were weekend warriors and go to campsites there is so many now popping up farmers who do it really cheap just to keep their farms going. And for the rubbish that's defiantly mainly the locals the worst are the youngsters who I don't think they know what a bin is. I can remember I had a 18yr old shadow me in a nursing home, said to her right we just got to tidy empty the bin ready for the next shift ...her words how do I empty the bin..her mum always done it ..I was blown away obviously laughed as I thought she was taking the P ..
Yes, we used to use those pop up sites a lot in the past before we got our van as we loved camping, but even those are going up in price.. Its quite sad that some of the younger generations don't have a clue to just use their common sense.. ☯️😊☮️
The corrupt state can never stop this life😂😂😂😂it will be too expensive and difficult to police 😂😂😂😂I'm totally undercover and no one has a clue and I intend to keep it that way 😂😂😂
I always always park up so I can drive out in an emergency, if I can't do that due to other vans or cars then I'll move on. I also hate parking close to other vans - give me some privacy!!
to say that people on holiday should be paying so you get the free parking is crazy, people who are on holiday own houses and are nearly skint any way and probably have less cash
A majority of people who I've witnessed who are actually on holiday, have the biggest MH and rental vans, maybe they could consider a campsite if they can afford it, maybe we should all consider to do the best we can to elevate the situation if we can afford it. I may not have articulated the best I could at the time to explain myself better, I was just saying that it could be a way to help to find some sort of solution in a situation that is now getting out of control.. Thanks for your input, all both sides of this discussion are always welcome.. ☮️😊☯️
@@nonlostsouls the congestion has come about since more people now live in vans, holiday makers and weekenders have always looked for free parking we where doing that as a family over 20/30/40 years ago. what i gathered from what your saying is because you live in your van you should get the free parking while those who arnt should be more considerate.
@@nonlostsouls what i got from your video is that people who are not full time van dwellers should be more considerate so you can get the free parking. that the part that blew me away in what you said
It is unfortunate that the UK is the most densely populated country in western europe. The situation is getting gradually worse as immigration increases our population. "Free unlimited parking" has become rare. Even supermarkets use cameras to monitor and fine for an overstay. Outside of western europe there is plenty of land and a very low population density. Nobody there would think it morally right or necessary to charge for parking
I don't agree with you. If the demand is there then councils should provide. Otherwise, what are you saying.....new vanlifers are not welcome and no one else is entitled to this lifestyle because there are not enough park ups?
Council funds are limited at best; and parking for vans (van life or campers) isn't anywhere close to the top 100 ways to spend money. There are enough parkups...but people constantly look for IG type parkups.
No, not at all , everyone has a right to somewhere safe to stay the night.. We started out as weekend warriors.. I was saying that maybe those on holiday, wherever from abroad or that live here could go to a campsite , too many are setting up campsites and fires on the edge of a road or even at beauty spots and leaving a right mess not saying that's everyone just a select few who believe it's their right to do what they want as they are on holiday. We all know that vanlifers have a duty and a responsibility to our environment and the locals and its very rarely those that behave like this, thats what I've been noticing since living on the road.. ☯️😊☮️
I think van life has got so popular now that everyone is competing for the park ups,it’s about being sensible and respectful to everyone around you,including the locals
I think your right, especially during the summer months in popular areas. ☮️😊☯️
I agree
I don't see a problem. I never park up in public places where others are...not near or within sight of a single other vehicle, van or car, day or night.
By remaining quiet and sticking to deserted and wild regions, I have never experienced a single problem during many decades of utter freedom.
@@Globetrotter-1 Yes, when we are in places that are in the middle of nowhere or people aren't aware of the place, we've had the place to ourselves, it's not until we are more near towns and cities ( outskirts) it can be an issue. Not all the time. This is why we prefer the winter months living in our van it's a lot more quieter.. ☮️😊☯️
@@nonlostsouls Yes, I agree, the quiet winter months ❄️ are the best period. I don't use a heater and prefer to just wear goose down clothing to remain comfortable during the coldest temperatures.
Thing is, more and more people are taking to van life, whether it’s influence from UA-camrs or economic or people wanting to withdraw from the system. Councils are fully aware of this and are reducing the amount of overnight stops to try to deter people from this way of living. I always try to park up in remote places but depending on where you are and what vehicle you’re in (mine is a 7x2.4x3.2 motorhome!) sometimes there is little choice! Best thing in that situation is to get up early and move on to somewhere more suitable.
☯️😊☮️
Van dwellers need to start a proper community that has legal representation. I'm sick of certain youtubers not taking people seriously when they raise concerns about park ups and the looming pay per mile charges. This is not a joke, and people need to stop burying their heads in the sand about it. I was seriously considering van life, but sadly, I can see very dark clouds ahead, and I, for one, refuse to ignore them.
Agree. We were just talking about this PPM, but until its implemented there's not a lot we can do, I personally can't see how it would be enforced, and if and when it comes in, we will still continue with this way of life, but maybe become more slowed down then we are now.. This isna topic we will be raising at some point.. Thanks for the feedback intreasting points..☮️😊☯️
@nonlostsouls
Irish travellers/gypsies have human rights protections that normal van lifers don't have. Van lifers will have to legally fight for those same rights at some point. Who's going to take up the gauntlet?
Freedom comes with responsibility✌🏻
It so does...☯️😊☮️
Well said 👏 we all need to be more considerate, Bright Blessings to you both 🥰
Thank you ☯️😊☮️
Agree, if there are over a couple of vans in a small space, I leave, especially if they have their chairs out etc. Depends on the park up, but locals need to park to walk their dogs etc. it’s like those people that sit next to you on an empty beach then start making a load of noise and leaving their rubbish 😂
Don't understand why people do that, you have the whole of the carpark but you choose to get that close to us i can smell your breathe 🤣 ☯️😊☮️
Great video guys & all valid points raised
As you say it's about etiquette, and respect for others ☯️🙏
There's many who will say that legally they aren't doing anything wrong & people don't own certain spaces, e.g. on road parking outside a house, a view etc & therefore are "entitled" to park there
But as history tells us, there's many things that were legal in the past but morally & ethically wrong 😢
Completely agree Richard, thanks for some vaild points there. Hope your well..☯️😊☮️
@@nonlostsouls I'm good thanks, hope you're both well 🙏
Yes, I think what you say makes a lot of sense; at the end of the day it could result in local councils etc being given a convenient "excuse" to say no parkups! It is all about common sense and respect. Blessings xx
Absolutely...☯️
If there's a van already parked I just go somewhere else.
Never use park4night, looked on it and nothing shown anywhere near where I wanted to stay.
Thing is, you can be parked up in a good spot, and in the morning or whenever someone has parked right next to you and you can't even use your side door or sometimes the rear door.
Being blocked in is a real problem. I like to be able to leave especially if I feel uncomfortable with the surroundings.
Most of it is common sense, which seems to have disappeared, and it's everyone does what they want and they don't care about others.
I hate being angry and upset, so I understand how you must be feeling.
Take care and relax.
You have a lovely home.
🥰😇😊
We don't like it when they get that close, depends on what time of day it is whether we move on or not..
Thank you ☮️😊☯️
We had a park4night location near us. Since it's been removed from the app, a lot less people now use the location.
☮️😊☯️
@@nonlostsouls The park4nite website has a charter.
@@123slowdown oooooooh, what's that?. Please explain more 😊
Agree 100%. Well said. In 4 years I’ve never had the knock, or any aggro from anyone. Maybe because I’m a lone female, but more likely is because I’m using common sense about park ups - staying stealthy, and not taking the piss. I don’t think it should only be full timers who can use these places, and everyone else go to campsites- campsites aren’t for everyone regardless of vehicle or if just on holiday. But everyone wild camping should be respectful and not see it as an entitlement. ( it should be, but we know the uk has a narrow minded view in it, so don’t antagonise I say,)
I try not to believe a lot of what I read in social media etc about vanlife problems, I think there is a lot of sensationalism, but we do need to be very careful before we lose this lifestyle
Too many people shouting about ' The Knock' but then we believe it's all for the clicks and views. We've only ever had people knock when they want to ask more about your van and lifestyle, so go figure. Again I think its because we are also considerate about where we park up..☯️😊☮️
I think councils should develop Camping Aires for Van lifers and Weekenders to use.
The revenue would be good for the local towns and custom for cafes n shops etc.
But i also agree that folk should be more mindful when parking up, so as not to irritate locals.
I think the Aires we found is Scotland were amazing, free for the night but a small charge for any services.. ☯️😊☮️
and who will pay for the camping areas?the councils dont grow money on trees,our council taxes have gone up £150 this year and we are all getting less
I agree to a point we prefer quiet park ups im not a lover of big crowds if a place is busy im out, to me the whole point of vanlife is the relaxation the views etc ❤
Yes we do too ☯️😊☮️
P.s. first time watching on the TV while dog sitting for Mandee's daughter. Great to see you have great taste in bed covers lol. I've got the same but in blue, with Hares and other creatures on the other side. Keep Loving the Adventure Both. Love and Big Hugs ❤❤
LOL, yes we live this cover ours is forest green with all the woodland creatures on the other side..☮️😊☯️
A friend of mine went away in his car and rooftop tent box.first night had a great camp.but his main reason for getting away was to go to the Glenfinnan viaduct.not one parking spot,and people were walking 2-3 miles down a busy road just to get to the viaduct.so he thought he’d go to Glencoe.not one parking spot for miles and miles.so he decided to just go home.fair enough it was the school holidays,but it’s only going to get busier everywhere and more fit for purpose places should be created 👍.✊🙏❤️👌👊😎
This is one of the main reasons we try to visit beauty spots and tourists destinations out of season, less people and more space 😊
I think a lot of fulltimers are so off the radar they're not on here & not experiencing problems. I've totally changed my approach to where I stop since the start of this year, 70% of the time I don't see dog walkers, cars or other vans, occasionally I bump in to a full timer that has set up permanently & not being hassled. Whenever I have a few days off from that & do the tourist thing for a few days I see the no overnight signs, been blocked in, had someone choose to park right next to me instead of 1 of another 50 spaces & start a generator! I've been having a serious think about whether to start properly vlogging how I live my life on the road, a big part of me is like nope keep a low profile.
I think the more of us that highlight the issues then maybe we can change things before it's too late, but then I also think that there will always be a select few that will do things their way regardless of the repercussions.. Thanks for your input..Keep safe out there ☮️😊☯️
yea i said it before all these channels are going to create more people wanting to live the van life
Thats why we try to highlight not only the good side but also the difficulties that come with living on the road. It's not all rainbows and unicorns thats for sure.. This PPM scheme will be putting a lot of people off or back into houses.. ☯️
Agree!! We have a rule if two vans are already there we don’t stay. And would never block someone in.. fire risk alone should be considered.
☯️😊☮️
there are 100,000 van lifers in Britain now because buying a house is not an option , it's not an idilic life style, it's a necessity.
So true ☯️😊☮️
People need to have some common courtesy for others and their surroundings. well said people need to wake up
They so do ☯️
Ur entitled to freedom !!!!
Yes, we are all entitled to be free ☯️😊☮️
Very good video guys. I agree with your views also. To many people think they are entitled to park where they like and dont give thought to local residents etc Its common sense but some are very selfish. I wish people would stop revealing where they park up because it just entices others to go there and turn it into a big problem where places are just over run. Keep up the good videos and hopefully will catch up with you very soon 😊x
Thank you Dotty.. We stopped revealing spots a long time ago online..☮️😊☯️
I do agree that van etiquette is crap sometimes but we are all entitled to do vanlife.Weather it’s full time or just for a day and councils need to provide if that’s what the demand is. Loch Lomond is my doorstep but difficult to get a space for locals but I don’t blame the tourists it’s the councils fault. They need to provide Aires like in France as there’s so many more vans on the road, the problems isn’t so many vans on the road the problem is there’s no appropriate parking. I’ve had vans for nearly 20 years now and the change since the pandemic is crazy but it makes me happy to see so many like yourselfs in vans now and out the matrix but unfortunately the bad minority gives vanlife a bad name.❤️🙏
Completely agree with you..
I think more and more will be joining this movement due to the financial crisis we are in or realising they are being played and to get out before it's too late..☯️
There is a legal right to rest from driving if you're tired, that won't change but it's pretty miserable sleeping next to major road where you get buffeted all night by passing traffic. We need a code like leave no trace (the fires and furniture come under this already) polite, respectful and low key would be a good start. People should take a look at how some of the stealth guys do things. Separate day and night park ups, arrive at dusk leave at dawn, no trace ect. Do a bit of litter picking, make yourself known at the local shop or cafe and give van users a better name. Maybe if we can improve our image with locals especially local businesses then people would be more tolerant and we may even eventually get more aire style park ups with water and waste facilities. Those who highlight the bad side of van life will be on the fast lane to losing it, especially if the get drunk and abusive, play loud music and the like. A driving ban is the ban on van life for them.
Spot on ☯️😊☮️
Well said guys .. ❤
Thank you ☮️😊☯️
Agree with you, so many signs going up. The fire risk from van to van spreading in the night is a real issue. It could have happened in Arundel the other week as shown in a vlog by Kev another vanlifer. Safe travels ❤
Very true.. ☯️
There should be an etiquette rule of thumb for a 10-yard space around your vehicle for privacy
Totally agree 👍
when u park up always make sure thre is enough room infront so you can pull out, what you should have added is footage of the park up.
Yes, we did say we should have filmed the area, we did later just before we were able to move on but by then all but one other van was there packing up their tent, it will be featured in our up coming weekly vlog.. ☯️😊☮️
Btw you look nice with the natural hair Billy Steve your awesome mate
Thank you Tony..☮️😊☯️
It goes without saying that it's all about respect for the area you are staying in and respect for the local community. After all van dwelling is temporary in a given area. Leave the area as you would like to find it. Be as inconspicuous/stealthy as possible and stay under the radar at all cost otherwise things will get harder. If this lifestyle is to survive then people need to take steps now to preserve it. It's the same as living in a house on an estate, you want to maintain the local area you are living in. Living in vans is like a mobile version of this, it needs to be preserved as much as possible.
Totally agree with you..☮️😊☯️
Completely agree with most of what you say.
I personally have never had anyone complain about me parking up.
My personal rules are.
Do not park within sight of a House/dwelling. If another van/car camper is in the spot drive on and find somewhere else. I don't put anything outside, not even my step stool. No bbq's. I don't put my windscreen cover on so as not to make it look like I am staying. I leave early (4.30 to 5.00am) before most Locals are out and about.
I also accept that I may have to use a campsite as a back up. There is no Law that says you must free park every night.
I have met a few selfish people who will never respect others. The type who don't even respect themselves.
If the Government decide to push for a pay per mile system then things may get worse. People may be inclined to stay at parkups longer to reduce travelling costs.
I enjoyed your honest and heartfelt video. Stay safe.
I don't know about your country but in my country Scotland if your being honest, far to many do not give a shit about dropping rubbish or emptying toilets or unbelievably doing a shit at the side of a carpark, and in Scotland you do have the right to roaming, but that actually doesn't extend to a vehicle, and Scotland might look wild and desolate ,but it isn't really their are local people pretty much every where, good video. Ps the Dutch people rock.
Yes we did notice that when we spent the winter up there I was quite shocked at the amount of rubbish in such beautiful locations.☯️😊☮️
@@nonlostsouls exactly.
I had this exact experience, last night (Tues), for the first time in 4 years.
Back earlier this year when it was May, l used this spot, and l was always parked up alone.
l like to keep it random, as not to become too predictable, as l know people carry mobile phones.
I often arrive after dark, and try to leave before the first dog walkers (05.00am), l find l need a sleep in the daytime, so l use NT carparks, the membership is only £8 a month for free parking dawn 'till dusk, it's the only way l can keep up with this lifestyle, lol.
Last night 8, xl wheelbase white vans + their unhitches were already there when l arrived at dark, l turned around and immediately left, they were too highly noticeable for my liking.
I chose deliberately an unmodified van externally with no solar, or connections etc so as not to give the game away immediately.
I do actually park on the road, or anywhere else legally, much in the same way a van owner may choose, to park his van overnight.
Maybe it's just an August thing, (travellers), or the beginning of a new trend.🤔
We've arrived at places too and just left as its too busy.. Sometimes the best places are at the side of the road in a residential area or a lovely big layby.. I know it's the time of year and soon these spots will become a lot quieter..☯️😊☮️
Sad to see. But, like you seeing it all the time. If I see more than a few vans in one place I always move on. Same as you, never had a problem with the locals, mostly dog walkers. Always say hello. Leave enough room for people to park. And yes it is the dog walkers that Leave the mess, only a few but it is them. I don't know why they use poo bags cuz they then throw them in the hedge. We need to be like the vanlifers on the continent. Lot more respect 🙏
We so do, when did we become a nation that stopped caring about our country side?. Don't recall it being this bad when we were younger.. Stay safe guys and we shall see you both soon ☮️😊☯️
You can then indentify as a traveller which is not against the law .
☯️😊☮️
Why you beating yourself up Billy ?? You both are entitled to park where you want with rules followed much love n piece xx
I agree Tony, just wish we all followed the same mindset..☮️😊☯️
Spend £2000 running a house then £30-£40 a night camping at a site. The whole lot is f*cked now vans have become so popular. Campsite or cheeky spot. Campsites were a tenner maybe twenty precovid unless its some snobby caravan club one. Not now. Its no wonder weekend warriors like me don't go to campsites. For me its pub stops if ive got enough money but not campsites v much. It is what it is. Something becomes popular and its all over social media adding to popularity and it takes a nose dive in the end as a victim of its own popularity. Same with everything 🙄
Oh yeah, completely forgot about pub stop overs. Our first night in our van was a pub stop over near Tintern Abbey .. We treated ourselves a meal in the pub and had one of the best views ever.. Thanks for your comment..☯️😊☮️
@@nonlostsouls if you aren't careful it costs nearly as much as a site if you end up drinking loads haha, but spend twenty quid on a pint n grub n they usually seem happy enough. I've got an lt28. Mines a total money pit. Wouldnt dare take the thing full time- I'd end up in a tent 🙈
Well said again. We will not park in a spot which is unsuitable 2 or 3 vans max even in big parking places. Well said about Park4Night. Many of the places on there up here are passing places. They can be fined and even lose their vehicle. Here is you stick, we did caravan sites until eight years ago. I had to retire through health and the only way we can do what we do is to do what we do LOL why because the government say I do not qualify for any benefits. Those convoys of vans really annoy me. This seems to be cyclical and comes around every now and again as new folk find it on YT. 3 Police Knocks but nothing nasty always good. One day a local will receive a bag of rubbish from Lindsay LOL. Yes we move on if the chairs and fire pits come out. You talk sense rambling on is good. Perhaps get a group to collaborate on getting the message across.
Oh gosh convoy of vaners really so my head in! No convoy drills so makes passing next to impossible. Parking up in large carparks in a cowboy start circle etc.
Great points David, I think there's quite a few bringing the message out there now which is good..☯️😊☮️
I think if anyone uses park4night needs to stipulate maximum to still allow the local walkers. I think sometimes people forget to think of others or just ignorant...were weekend warriors and go to campsites there is so many now popping up farmers who do it really cheap just to keep their farms going. And for the rubbish that's defiantly mainly the locals the worst are the youngsters who I don't think they know what a bin is. I can remember I had a 18yr old shadow me in a nursing home, said to her right we just got to tidy empty the bin ready for the next shift ...her words how do I empty the bin..her mum always done it ..I was blown away obviously laughed as I thought she was taking the P ..
Yes, we used to use those pop up sites a lot in the past before we got our van as we loved camping, but even those are going up in price.. Its quite sad that some of the younger generations don't have a clue to just use their common sense.. ☯️😊☮️
The corrupt state can never stop this life😂😂😂😂it will be too expensive and difficult to police 😂😂😂😂I'm totally undercover and no one has a clue and I intend to keep it that way 😂😂😂
Yes I think you are right but they will sneak something in.. Keep safe out there..☯️😊☮️
@@nonlostsouls they can dream on... It. Will never happen the way I do it.. But for you it will be different
You will have to give us some tips 😊
I always always park up so I can drive out in an emergency, if I can't do that due to other vans or cars then I'll move on. I also hate parking close to other vans - give me some privacy!!
💯 agree.. ☯️
to say that people on holiday should be paying so you get the free parking is crazy, people who are on holiday own houses and are nearly skint any way and probably have less cash
A majority of people who I've witnessed who are actually on holiday, have the biggest MH and rental vans, maybe they could consider a campsite if they can afford it, maybe we should all consider to do the best we can to elevate the situation if we can afford it. I may not have articulated the best I could at the time to explain myself better, I was just saying that it could be a way to help to find some sort of solution in a situation that is now getting out of control..
Thanks for your input, all both sides of this discussion are always welcome.. ☮️😊☯️
@@nonlostsouls the congestion has come about since more people now live in vans, holiday makers and weekenders have always looked for free parking we where doing that as a family over 20/30/40 years ago. what i gathered from what your saying is because you live in your van you should get the free parking while those who arnt should be more considerate.
@@nonlostsouls what i got from your video is that people who are not full time van dwellers should be more considerate so you can get the free parking. that the part that blew me away in what you said
Well they got a choice they can sell their houses , dick.
Over half a million people live in vehicles in UK..... England fits into Australia 32 times...we have 5 thousand people living in vehicles here... .
Not disagreeing, just interested in where the figure of half a million come from?
Yes and I'm sure that figure rises each day..☮️😊☯️
It is unfortunate that the UK is the most densely populated country in western europe. The situation is getting gradually worse as immigration increases our population. "Free unlimited parking" has become rare. Even supermarkets use cameras to monitor and fine for an overstay. Outside of western europe there is plenty of land and a very low population density. Nobody there would think it morally right or necessary to charge for parking
Some great points there, thank you.☯️😊☮️
Three van only is my rule,if more move on ,
☮️😊☯️
👍👍🚐😎
☮️😊☯️
I don't agree with you. If the demand is there then councils should provide. Otherwise, what are you saying.....new vanlifers are not welcome and no one else is entitled to this lifestyle because there are not enough park ups?
Council funds are limited at best; and parking for vans (van life or campers) isn't anywhere close to the top 100 ways to spend money. There are enough parkups...but people constantly look for IG type parkups.
No, not at all , everyone has a right to somewhere safe to stay the night.. We started out as weekend warriors.. I was saying that maybe those on holiday, wherever from abroad or that live here could go to a campsite , too many are setting up campsites and fires on the edge of a road or even at beauty spots and leaving a right mess not saying that's everyone just a select few who believe it's their right to do what they want as they are on holiday. We all know that vanlifers have a duty and a responsibility to our environment and the locals and its very rarely those that behave like this, thats what I've been noticing since living on the road.. ☯️😊☮️