My SCARIEST Solo RV Life Encounters/ Story Time
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Can I just say that it really pisses me off that women can't just go out in the woods by themselves without worrying about being attacked by some man? Hell, even a stroll alone in the evening can get you killed. SO sick of it
Bear spray works on humans.. jus sayin.. ;)
You should be sick of it. Men are the problem.
@@Zanniroxwell Good to know! Thanks for the info!
I tell my husband this all the time when I get that hair raising sign and he thinks I’m crazy and then I have to repeat what I always say, ‘I’d rather be wrong than in a situation I can’t get out of’ . We had a super scary incident at a trail in city limits walking our dog and this guy comes up behind us walking fast, covered (disguised) head to toe. That alone sent my radar up and I said he is a drug dealer, let’s go. He said we were fine and we went a different direction and we come up on a different guy who came out of nowhere and went the same direction. I said, we definitely need to get out of here, so we head towards the car and all of a sudden he is walking super fast behind us and aggressively so. We walked faster and he stopped finally (other people were walking by then) but he was for sure dealing. The scary part is tons of women alone walk there. I used until it just gave me the creeps.
Men won't pick on men, cuz there scared of their own breed, but picks on women, cuz they think we are weaker...no always the case. Men need to get a life!!!
ALWAYS trust your intuition. There's a reason that God gave extra "gut feeling" awareness to women.
Agree 💯!
And men
Naw, women can see stuff men don't. We don't like to admit it, but it's true.
@@brucewalters8635 Yes, men have intuition as well, but women tend to be a little more intense with it. Especially when it comes to dangerous people.
Also ,about millennial of females being targets of nasty ,bad males.
" just the three of us...Smith and Wesson and I."
Just the two of us, Ruger and I.
yes exactly !
I'd have that strapped to my side, handy-like.
😂😅😊
I hear ya! It's me and Sig Sauer.....
I have been a woods tramper my entire life. Now at age 74, I am living in a studio apt in a secure building for older adults. Staying right here!
I can't remember what earlier video you mentioned what I am about to write...
I was alone camping and I brought a pair of men's shoes and I put them outside my camper along with mine... some men came into my camp and asked if I was hunting and I said "we all are" ..."see anything"... then I said, "not much"... they looked at the shoes!!! Then excused themselves and left... I am so glad I brought those men's shoes!!!
Also, camping in a tent i took a zip tie and put that on my zippered door inside my tent.... SOMEONE TRIED TO OPEN MY TEXT IN THE MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT. I was in my 20s (49 now) and backpacking in the Idaho wilderness. I cocked my weapon and they ran off. So glad i zip tied my door!!
SMART COOKIE !!!
A Carabiner works well to on the zippers. I started using one so my dogs couldn't get out of the tent. Then one time was camping with some "friends" ended up being like around 25 of us. Half of them I didn't know. I was sleeping in the SUV but had the tent connected to the SVU to have another room with chairs and a small table. The next morning something told me to leave the carabiner on the tent zippers, shut the hatchback and crawl over the seat to get out. Then I locked the car. Nothing happened but still got to listen to our guts. I'm glad you had those mens shoes.
@@ellee136nothing happened BECAUSE you listened to your gut feeling. I'm 100 % sure of that. Your Spidey senses told you to haul out for a reason. Someone had bad intentions
@@thesecretshade i believe you are right :)
That is super smart.
What I learned from your dangerous encounter….too many of we women feel conditioned or obligated to “be nice”, “friendly, or “agreeable” all the time……WE DO NOT and SHOULD NOT BE NICE AND FRIENDLY AND AGREEABLE ALL THE TIME!
Thanks for sharing these experiences for all of us to learn by!
Exactly 💯
I agree. I live alone and I’m careful about opening my door. I got too relaxed one day and two huge men came to my door trying to get me to agree to buy something I didn’t want and I dont remember the product. They had papers. They had papers that they wanted me to fill out to share my bank acct numbers. I mean it was really hot day so the one really big guy had on a white shirt and he was sweating like crazy. I once almost asked him if he wanted to come in and get cool. The I was like are you kidding? Don’t be stupid. Finally I said listen I’m not interested. Bye now. And walked inside. Shut the door and locked it. I was worried till I got my door closed and locked. They didn’t leave my porch right away. Then suddenly the one said ok yeah, let’s go. Geez!
There was a recent video of an 85 year old who was tied to a chair from an intruder. She was shot in the stomach and other places yet managed to get her gun and shoot the intruder dead! The 911 dispatcher was so shocked he was an idiot questioning her when she called 911! It was cringe worthy listening to the dispatcher repeating questions vs getting an ambulance and police to her home! 😵💫😵💫🤯🤯🤬
I don't know why we are concerned about worrying what strangers think. We need to learn that we do not know them, do why should we care. If you're instincts are telling you to not go in that elevator, or be nice to someone who appears at your door, listen to those instincts!!!!!!!!!
This is so true, and it is so important to teach girls this!
My husband is trucker and he always tells me to watch my back and keep to my vehicle if a driver approaches me, I've been traveling alone a long time, and with my kids when they were young, I still have my dads deep baritone voice asking 'hey who's there, what do you want? On may phone and play it when a stranger knocks at my door, any door! And don't think all women are safe, they can be bait and used to get you to let your guard down. Kids too. And also keep a ball cap with and switch it frequently, makes someone think you're not alone. I hope you are armed with some kind of weapon when you hike, hiking alone is dangerous for many reasons. Stay safe and healthy!
I carry a sidearm but I have recordings of a racking shotgun handy
Definitely need a gun in these situations!
I thought of doing this recorded voice thing, great that it works!! I'm going to do it when I actually do RVing vanlife ing.
Great points! Esp about how women and children are sometimes used as bait to lure women, children and other vulnerable people in as prey. It’s happening more and more & so scary!! (And so sad since the children, and often the adult women, are also victims of the perpetrators.)
I was down a country road beside the creek with my grandaughter and a friend of hers they were 7 yrs old. We were wading in the creek. A van with a man came by (looking a little too long) I immediately took the girls and left.
Always trust your instincts. I learned that when I was a teen. I had been a mall and ran into a friend i had known for awhile. We will call him Bill. He was always a nice kid and very sweet to me however he had a couple people with him that night I didn’t know. I got such a strong sense of danger or evil if you want to call it that. We talked for a minute and he asked if they could get a ride to a house down the street. Normally I would have said sure but I had such an uneasy feeling even though at the time it didn’t make sense. A couple days later I saw a mug shot of my “friend” and those other people he’d been with that night on the news. They had just murdered someone and were looking for a way out of the area I’m sure when I saw them. Had I ignored my intuition I don’t think I’d be sitting here typing this today. Very scary.
Thanks for posting such an informative and enlightening video. I have subscribed.
Yes, God was watching out for you that day. Are used to manage an apartment complex and I lived on the property. I had an office in my apartment and I had two men knock on the door. They came in and wanted to see an apartment and I told him I didn’t have any availability. I had birds in a cage and the one man said oh are these the birds in your cage? I said yes they are and he Walked over to the cage. He was a back of me and the other man was in front of me and they blocked me in. I don’t know why I said this but I said “Honey can you come and get the birds out” these gentlemen would like to look at them. Right after that they skedaddled. I was shaken. By the way there was NO HONEY. Great informative video!!!!!
Our intuition has been honed over thousands of years to keep us safe. We need to always trust this and listen.
I always refer to it as my lizard brain. When that starts to fire off I listen to it even when I do it subconsciously just as Carolyn was talking about here. It's our best self defense,to actually listen to our bodies when it's telling us there's danger around!
Millions of years.
Yes, this woman is crazy for what she's saying...
I'm grateful for "Spidey Sense", too. I was invited to go on vacation with a man i met at work ka contractor) who later turned out to be arrested for being serial killer. Glad i listened to that "icky" feeling!
thank god you listened
Woah! That's terrifying! Do you mind saying who it was? If that makes you feel unsafe of course don't answer. I'm just so so glad you listened to your intuition.
Omg that's horrifying! I truly believe our "Woman's Intution" has saved me from several bad endings. My #1 piece of advice for any young ladies is to always, always, always listen to your gut & when you get that sensation that something's wrong, do whatever you gotta do to gtfo of wherever you are!
Yes, we don't have to be nice... That is key. I was camping with my brother and his fiancee' in the Redwood forest. I was about 12-13 years old. Wine was had and they became sleepy, but the fire was still going. I volunteered to watch the fire. Their tent was close-by but far enough to be safe from embers. There were no other campers around us. Out of the woods came a disheveled/unwashed thin young man with a unkempt blonde beard and long hair. I can't remember everything he said to me. He wanted to sit by the fire with me. He told me he is raising his 6 year old daughter in the woods. He liked my long red hair. He wanted me to hold his hand since he was lonely. I refused and he got angry and told me that females are here to express love to men... Yep, scary. I finally had enough! I can't remember how I got out of it except I went into the brother's tent and they didn't seem to understand what I was saying. We were all safe from any physical harm. It is a miracle... I was a kind and gullible teen.
❤🎉
👍🏻😁
I’m female traveling solo in my RV. I have my 360 radar going all the time. It can be exhausting. But so much better than dealing with danger or injury. I also learned a long time ago to LOOK at people, make direct unflinching eye contact with anyone you are concerned about. They want victims, not fighters, they don’t want someone who shows no fear , who will put up resistance. Pull in somewhere, it doesn’t look or feel safe, pull out.
I need to get to thrift store and get some well used large mens work boots to set out by the door. And a big dog dish that says Killer or Brutus. 👍🏻😆
Great ideas about the men’s boots and the dog dishes.
Better yet, just get a big dog!
Exercise your 2nd & get training. Also always park where you can get out quickly if needed.
Excellent points!
Hike in the woods on my own. Nothing has ever happened to me. I walk into a walmart, and some nasty man comes up behind me and rubs up against me. I have had more scary things happen to me in wal mart than anywhere else and I travel by myself all the time.
Ewwwwww. I'm so sorry. And I know exactly what you mean. I recently had something similar happen in a place that was supposed to be safe.
Give me the trees and the critters any time!
The woods have never scared me. Walking through downtown of a city of 100,000 at 7:00am was when I was accosted.
In my local grocery store one of the bag boys placed his hand on my lower back. Before I knew what was going on or who was touching me my fist came flying back and the guy was on the floor crying. The only question I had for him was what did you learn! He said never, ever touch you! My reply was I'm glad you learned something!
@@blakesleyk.7166 actually, I have a really painful back, and it was merely a reaction to the pain. I left it out because I was worried about running out of space.
yep, nasty men are all too common. And they wonder why we don't trust them.
I always put multiple lawn chairs out to make my camp look more occupied ✌️💖
OMG, this is so smart, lay a big jacket over the chair and a cup in the drink holder
good idea
One this is for sure, your gut is always right so listen to it.
A few years ago my partner and i and our two small sons did a 22 hour road trip to visit some family. We were at the halfway point driving through a town and we drove past a rest stop. I remember it being full of trucks and cars that night but we didn't stop. We made it to our destination and after the 10 day visit, we made the trip back. It was night time and i was busting to go to the toilet and we just so happen to drive past that same rest stop again entering at the halfway point. But this time it was empty except for one car parked there.
My partner who was driving pulled into the rest area and parked right next to the car. There was a guy standing outside leaning against the car. He was wearing a hoodie which was pulled up around his head. He turned to look at us.
My partner said to me to quickly go to the toilet. Run in and out quickly. The toilets was not far away at all and it was lit up with alot of lights. But as i turned to look at the guy just standing there watching us, my gut told me not to get out of our car. What if i went to the toilet and he did something to my partner and then followed me? And our boys were sound asleep. I couldn't risk it. I had a bad feeling and finally thinking about my kids, i said to my partner to get the hell out of there. I could hold my pee until the next stop! So we drove up out of there!!
That guy was the only one there and he was really creeping me out. I'm glad i followed my gut!
good that you followed your gut but why did your partner pull up right next to this guy given the entire lot was empty? I always wonder why people have to pull up right next to you when they have entire lot full of other spaces they could pull into.
@@tinaperez9756 I always wonder too 😅
First thing I thought of when reading this
When hoods are up, trouble's comin'.
I remember all these videos and how scary that situation was on the highway of tears. Most of my bad interactions have been in more populated areas as well mostly on BART in the Bay Area or on the Chicago L with men pressing themselves on you on crowded trains. Only once in a more remote stop off the interstate where a man was keeping pace with me ,changing lanes to keep up and following me off the exit. I stopped at a gas station and he sat in his car off to the side in the shadows. I was only about 19 at the time. Told the cashier what was happening. A couple truckers went out to confront him and he took off. After waiting about 30 minutes, one of the truckers walked me out to my car and I was able to go on my way.
I have done that too. If it feels safe to do ask for help
Brilliant 👏
You should also report any incidents like that to the police. Include a description of what you have been able to see of the driver along with the color, make, model, and tags of the vehicle. Any information you can safely gather because it is unlikely you were the first, and more likely that they have a history of this behavior - and some unfortunate souls may not have gotten away. Get them in a database so law enforcement has them on their radar to consider for past - or future - missing persons cases.
Situational awareness is essential in the city and out in the boondocks. I was in a van parked for the night in a national forest near a lake. I had been there often and nothing ever happened, but I always made sure my van was parked in a way where escape would be easy if a situation came up. When I went to sleep two fishermen were still on the shore fishing, and I went to sleep. Later that night Iheard a lot of commotion nearby and when I looked out my window a group of men had made a huge campfire, and more and more guys came in. Every car was checked for some sort of ID, and there was a lot of drinking going on. As it got louder with more and more males around the campfire drinking (there were no women present), my sense was that even though this might be a very innocent gathering, there was a possibliity that as the drinking continued things might a bit crazy. With a combination of humans in groups along with alcohol anything can happen spontaneously. I got out of there without turning my lights on as the firelight was enough for me to see where I was going and I didn't want to be noticed. Don't ask for trouble or give an opportunity to take advantage of you being there alone even if they didn't start out with such an intention.
What's beyond comprehension is WHY (the non-evil people, LOL) choose to locate themselves RIGHT NEXT to you?
Isn't it clear enough that a vehicle is by itself out in what you'd think is the middle-of-nowhere for a reason? But nope, they INSIST on plunking themselves right beside you? Same with picnics, at the beach etc. It's just SO annoying & bewildering. SMH. Very glad you honoured your senses and got out of Dodge. 👍
I lived in the big city most of my life. One time I got off the freeway very late in a deserted area and did a quick stop at the red light and then went right through it. I knew not to wait for the green light, lest some guys might come out and surround my car. I’d rather get a ticket than get attacked. I knew to keep moving.
In my city at night, I do a rolling stop for red lights.
Thank you for your stories. Happened to MeToo. I was in the woods of Tennessee and a biker gang surrounded my van and did their best to intimidate me. These locals thought the land was theirs. I grabbed my gun and froze--waiting for them to start tearing up my van. About a half hour later, they left.
Everyone asks me “aren’t you scared out in the woods Alone?”
Ya know, snakes and bears and other critters. My conclusion is, I’m way safer around snakes and bears than I am around MEN!
Ya...I,m Much more Leary of Humans...than,Any animal
I'm sorry you had to deal with that. Scary stuff.
Sad but oh so true. I'm a survivor of a family "friend." Never, never, never trust anybody - even if you know them a long time - if your Spidey sense twitches even a little bit. I was too young to understand why I was getting that feeling.
Stereotypes, social justice and hypothetical situations pushed by the internet all in one comment 😂 Bravo !
Stereotypes, social justice and trending hypothetical situation pushed on the internet. All 3 in one comment. 😂 Bravo!
I remember that video. I watched it again and did some research about those missing girls on the posters. The first Mekayla Bali has been missing 7 years since she was 16. The second, Madison Scott was missing for 12 years, until her remains were found 18km from where she had gone missing. Since 1970, around 78 women have gone missing on what has been dubbed "The Highway of Tears". 36 of these have had no updates, nor remains found. The other 42 victims have had updates of some kind, including their remains being found, charges/convictions of their murderers that included two separate serial killers, estranged partners, or chance encounters. Scary stuff and a tragedy for their families. You 1000% did the right thing leaving that situation Carolyn.
Wow,that is really interesting. Thanks for doing a bit of a deep dive there and sharing what you found. I wonder what it is about that particular location that makes things like that happen so much? So sad!
✌😌
@@kheventplannerit’s a long, lonely stretch of highway. No cell service, no towns for many miles , it bisects quite a few remote Indigenous communities. There’s no public transportation and hitchhiking can be a means of getting from one community to another. It’s about 725km long and quite remote.
@@juliepi-k1114 oh wow I didn't know all that!
Better safe than sorry!
Seems pretty odd.
I can be talkative when I meet people on the road, I avoid certain questions like “are you traveling alone” because I frankly don’t need need to know.
Also the “tour guide” thing seems odd, like he’s trying to lure her away from the rig.
I was a 17 yr old camping with a friend. About 2 am we heard a group of guys come into the camp ground making all kinds of noise. We immediately recognized it was the boys we had meet earlier at the gas station. We hopped out of bed and waited for them to get to our campsite. Just as they rounded the corner my intuition told me to get in the tent. We ran and made it to our tent. They stopped at our site and stared. They drove around and did this a few times. Now, I fully know had we been out by the fire, it would not have ended well. I froze then but am thankful for the intuition that kept us safe.
Be careful, no tent will save you from someone that wants to harm you, tents are easy to breech
@@bethewalt7385 Obviously. But they made a good move by not being visible. If someone is truly evil then nothing you do will save you, but most crimes are opportunistic and also increased with alcohol or drugs, those factors remove inhibitions. They probably wanted to have a drinking session then one thing might have led to another...
@@deborahcurtis1385
cocking the gun...
You’re exactly right.. your gut feeling is Everything! I was 5 my sister 3.. playing in front of our house. A truck pulled up 2 men said why don’t you girls sit on our laps and we will show you the picture of the baby. We stepped up the truck ladder and the guy almost had my sister’s hand. I didn’t like the way the guy was looking at her. I pulled her dress down and we both tumbled to the ground. They took off because my sister was screaming. I’m sure we wouldn’t be here today.. Listen to your gut!
Where were your parents? This should've never happened
Omg that's scary I'm so sorry that happened and so thankful you listened to your instincts
I would add: don’t bother to pick up anything. Just get in the vehicle and lock it. If they don’t immediately leave, drive away and leave the stuff behind. It’s only stuff. One trick I have used is to act like my dog is quite fierce and say, “I need to put my dog in the van….” and then jump in with her!
I think I've mentioned this before. But I've had 2 experiences that caused great fear. I worked at a gas station in Shorewood, WI. 2 very young men came in while I was alone and distracted with cleaning duties. One had a butcher knife to my throat, the other a pistol to my forehead. They demanded that I open the register and were very angry it only had 30 dollars. I grew up in the, country with 2 brothers. My question to them was what the F...k was wrong with them. Can't you read! Only $30 in store. Drop safe! They got angry again and forced me to my knees and told me to count to 5, with the gun to the back of my head. Again, I told them to go F yourself and they ran away. I'm not sure I did the right thing, but I'm here! Another time a man broke into my house and tried to rape me! I broke his leg and removed part of his face! I grew up on a farm which made me extremely strong.
Good 4 u. I am so glad u did not get raped and maybe stopped him from attempting again.
How did u break his leg and face? Hammer?
@@pamjean2308 I pushed him down a flight of stairs! And my nails caught the left side of his face!
Thanks 4 the long laugh, down the stairs he went with a nail in his face😂🤣❤️
Yay!! Got for you!
In his book, "The Gift of Fear," Gavin de Becker* says to ALWAYS listen to your gut, and to NEVER be afraid to be rude.
*he's a former forensic psychologist, who would go over crimes with the victims who had survived them
For years I've intended to read TG of F and I'm finally listening to it. Now I kind of kick myself for waiting so long! His own life story and how he uses it to do his work and help others is incredible!
My mom gave me the book " The Gift of Fear" because she always thought I was too friendly with people. There’s wisdom in listening to that "inner voice."
I’m still very friendly with people but I have solid boundaries and I listen to my gut.
That de Becker book was life-changing for me. I’ve so much enjoyed this video!
HIGHLY recommend this book. Especially for parents. But ANYONE can benefit from it's knowledge through his career experience and education. It's dated now, but the principles and "situational awareness" continue to be bang on👍
I am familiar with this book and it is invaluable. The message is timeless: Never ignore the warning messages that your deep consciousness sends you.
❤❤❤❤ I used to travel alone as a travel nurse. And when I was asked, are you traveling alone? I would say no I got 2 buddies and they would say who's that? I got Smith and Wesson.... They are 38..... Ha 😂
That's something I'd say haha lol 🤣 good one 👍
That's not enough for some, you gotta be waiting on your friend who took a walk with another smith and Wesson...
I would never say that never discount your enemies and evil minded people you never want to give anyone the upper hand nobody brings a knife to a gunfight
38 Colt NP (New Police), or . 38/200, is a revolver cartridge developed by Smith & Wesson in 1877. Versions of the cartridge were the standard revolver cartridges of the British military from 1922 to 1963.
@@andielinke8523...and watch your back.
Camping in a hammock. A tree next to me struck by lightning.
One night in a tent ,a loud truck pulled within 30 feet of me , headlights on my tent reving its engine. Finally left . (Arkanasa)
Busted a u-joint in the artic winter on the Dalton H/W , wolves all around my truck howling . Spookie .
You mentioned the word 'nice.' I would like to add that, just because a woman is nice herself doesn't mean that other people will treat her nicely. Sometimes being a kind, decent person is like catnip to a bad person. So women need to get over the false idea that because they are 'nice' that bad people won't hurt them. As you said, trust your gut and stay alert to the possibility of danger.
I agree, and also, there are situations that are just plain dangerous and being nice or not nice isn't what's called for, it's getting out of there period as fast as possible.
aware.. weapon .. dutch door .. screen door witth 1/4" chicken wire cloth..
pistol with a coule of blanks first in the mag....crazy female just learning to aim ..
It's more that "be nice" has been ingrained into so many women from childhood than thinking that a bad person won't hurt them if they're nice.
@@laurenraine Yes!
@@user-tp1zq6ey9j Anyone possessing a firearm should know how to take care of it, how to store it safely, how to wear it and draw it safely and how to use it. No blanks. If you want non-lethal carry bear spray. And "crazy" is no respecter of gender.
I still remember when you shared your experience on the Trail of Tears. I believe that man was up to no good. Especially because he asked if you were traveling alone and then told you he would give you a tour! There's no way he was a legitimate tour guide! So glad you trusted your gut and got out of there!
So good. I hike solo a lot and have come to all the same conclusions. And “you don’t have to be ‘nice’” is what I always tell my teenaged girls. We don’t owe anybody our space, time, information about us or politeness. Sometimes people are testing us out to see how unaware or vulnerable we are.
Risk embarrassment and scream I told my kids repeatedly 😮...😊
I am listening to The Gift of Fear. It would be a great book for you and your girls to read. I wish now that I'd read it when I was young!
Carolyn, you just may of diverted a very bad situation on that second to the last incident. Being a female police officer of 40 years I have heard a lot of similar stories. Always listen to your gut. 😊
I agree with you that populated areas are a little more scary. I stopped at a Wal-Mart for the night. I lady came up to me and asked if I had a cell phone. I said yes, and then she asked me to call her a taxi. She looked homeless and down on her luck, so I called her a taxi. While this was happening a man and his dog pulled up near my spot. He was watching everything that was happening but that was it. I kept looking out my window to see if he was still there and to see what he was doing. I woke up during the night and his car was still there. I opened the van door and began cooking my breakfast when he suddenly walked around the van and looked inside. He said I was very nice by helping the lady last night and he said it was nice to see people helping others. I could tell he wanted something to eat, but he never asked. I was going to give him something when he started telling me that the authorites were following him and zapping him with microwaves. He was petting his dog and was showing me that the microwave was causing the dogs hair to fall out. My gut told me that he was waiting for me to turn my back on him so I told him that I needed to get back on the road and I told him goodbye.
Travel companion, Pepper spray, pepper spray, pepper spray!
Bear bangers and bear spray, I carry a concealed sidearm, I also always have a shotgun in my tent and a rifle on my saddle when riding, I horse pack into the back country and camp hunting for rocks, gems and minerals, I've done it since I was 14, I'm 63 now, I've had a couple situations but I do not fck around, I'll rest my hand on the butt of my pistol and straight up tell them they need to leave, now! I always let the rangers know where I'm going and I'll break camp and leave if I need to, though I never have had to, it's usually a 2-3 day ride to camp for me from where I park the trailer but I'm well armed, can move pretty fast with my horses if needed, my dogs are well trained and both the dogs and horses are early warning systems, I would never drawn down if I wasn't ready to use it, I know I'll not hesitate if the time comes, I hope it doesn't
Dear Carolyn, I could never do what you do as a middle aged woman. I would be afraid all the time to the point of never being able to enjoy myself!
As an Aussie🇦🇺 woman, i can so relate to that inner voice and over the years, have had so many strange and unsettling things happen. I once drove from Brisbane to Melbourne almost nonstop (except for toilet and petrol stops). Bravest thing i ever did. When you're on your own, it can be so scary and yes, it's men that you have to be wary of i'm just glad that i'm still here, because i shouldn't be.
If im alone and scared my first thought is not to film. Its to get somewhere safe. Crazy how people endanger themselves for a video...
As a survivor of domestic abuse, I appreciate this video. As women, most of the time it is the people we know who have the most potential to do us harm. Most strangers have no emotional connection to create a reason for violence. But, you are right. There are exceptions. There are drug or alcohol impaired individuals who lack impulse control. Psychopaths are rare, but they exist. Trusting your gut in the moment, even if you don't know why something feels off, is absolutely the right thing to do. It really took me a while to learn to recognize that gut feeling that something is not right. Thanks for sharing your stories.
Exactly.
highway of tears is VERY dangerous!
I had some acquaintances I camped next to a couple of times repeatedly call me asking where I was, saying they'd like to meet up. Every time they called they asked how the cell service was. I told them it was good, at which point they didn't show up. They also occasionally travelled with an ex-con with issues. I'm pretty sure they wanted to rob me, if not worse. I played along the first two times but the third time I told them to lose my number.
Sometimes it's okay to lie, I've been in situations before and I know my little lie saved me
The Highway of Tears is a very real, very terrifying stretch of highway. Many Missing & Murdered Indigenous Women #MMIW. I’m so glad your intuition kicked in and got you out of there. I grew up in BC and I remember the news stories of yet another Indigenous girl/woman going missing there. I honestly can’t imagine travelling by myself and stopping anywhere on that highway for lunch or whatever. I’d definitely wait until I was in a populated area in that situation - but I’ve been hearing about this most of my life. Thank you for reporting the situation to the RCMP - any bit of information is valuable.
It’s a good reminder to know where you are and to always be alert. If it doesn’t feel right, it isn’t right and it’s time to move on quickly.
Due to my trauma issues, I am ever vigilant everywhere I am and every situation I am in. It's always a bad outcome when I don't trust my instincts. I have been in quite a view scary/dangerous situations and never made the connection about freezing until you spoke about it. Thank you for that.
The scary is a stranger knocking at your door n window. Hello stranger, all my blind are covered. Im inside 😮
I'm sorry that the last story you spoke about brings up such raw emotions, still today. Honestly, I believe that feeling will always be there as not only a reminder but as a natural protection.
I totally agree with listening to your gut feeling. I have been in numerous situations and I know the feeling. It can be terrifing. I am a survivor and have faced living with fear. Having even been to court to face one stalker, only to have another stalker years later. So glad you shared this video. We are not alone.
Let me wake up my husband.
I drill that into my head so it comes out of my mouth automatically.
But it does not hurt to have a big boxer pit mix that does not like men.
If you feel the need to ascribe an activity to the nonexistent spouse, make it something like reading instead of sleeping. You want it to translate that this spouse is awake and alert, and possibly even looking out the window, not conked out asleep so that you are easy to grab. If you do call out, try to do it as you are walking towards the vehicle, and get in and leave. If you have to stand to call and don't get an answer - because you won't - try to then turn that into being worried that he didn't respond, that you need to check on him because he has high blood pressure/diabetes/ has been sick, etc., whatever might get you back to the vehicle, and decline if the stranger wants to come along. "Give me a minute. I'll call you if I need you." Something like that.
It's called the Highway of Tears for a reason. Glad you were safe.
They have found out that people who freeze in a dangerous situation is our bodies who are playing dead in hopes we don't look like good prey. It is a natural reaction and does not always mean it is PTSD
I was walking along a highway at night to meet my friend at work-a car full of men drove up behind me and I could hear them talking and got very scared. I had my hood up on my coat, so I puffed up my cheeks and made a grimace/smile face and turned to face them like I was friendly instead of scared. They started howling with laughter and sped off, one saying "I can't believe she is so ugly! ". I was safe. I never walked alone at night along a highway again though.
😂😂 Good one! That's something I would've done 👍
Edit : stay safe
I love that you are wearing your Fear Less jacket for this video.🐢🐕❣️✨🌈🌙🌺🌻🌊🐕🐢
Carolyn, somehow I missed this video - it says it was posted 7 months ago. We all have just recently been through the ‘I’d rather meet a bear in the woods than a strange man’ conversation. It was actually amazing and sad to see how few men actually ever took the time to consider what women go through in the world. A few men were very smart and compassionate about it, but I’d say 98% were either clueless or defensive about the whole conversation. Here’s a simple Pro-Tip, fellas: Yes, it’s nice to have conversations with females, and most of you are well-meaning. It only takes ONE Wacko to ruin a woman’s life, however. So, how do we tell you guys apart? Simple answer: We can’t. So, we must treat ALL of you with the same level of caution. Sad, yes, but true nonetheless. NEVER ask a woman traveler that you just met if ‘she’s traveling alone?’ You may think that is nice, casual chitchat, but it is not. You are probably being invasive at a level that is very unwelcome. She doesn’t know you from a hole in the ground. WHY should she trust you? Seriously. (Ted Bundy was a rich, charming, handsome PSYCHOPATH.) She doesn’t owe you sh*t - don’t get butt-hurt if she isn’t nice to you.
Listening to your inner voice and having your dog helped you
I do remember your first story on video. I started this lifestyle around five months ago. So I haven't had anything I would call scary. But, years ago I was camping. Suddenly, I could hear brush and trees braking. Something was coming toward me in the dark and it had no fear. I jumped around my fire and pulled out my gun. It got quiet. The next morning I went for a hike. I found a large Boulder against a broken tree. You could see all the damage it had done. I also had to think, what good would my gun do against this if it made into my camp. Yes I do still take a gun with me, but it won't fix everything.
Yeah...I think we both know what that was (and you're not crazy for thinking it 👍) and you're correct, the gun would've been not much help.
@@bobcaygeon6799 I still wonder what I would have done if it came through my camp?
WOW! Tell me about it… I also had encounter once and my six senses kick in, that save me. I’ll never forget that moment ever. Now I’m always aware of everything around me, at least I’m here. When you feel something is not right, do something about it. Good Blessings!
Thanks Carol. I was traveling solo with 4 non scary dogs out west. I was in Eastern Colorado and stopped at this campsite for the night that was creepy as hell. Lots of full timers living there is run down trailers and creepy looking dudes walking around. Loose dogs and just made me feel real uncomfortable. I pottied the dogs in daylight and then they were in for the night with my doors locked, curtains closed and my gun loaded and by my bed. Got the hell outta there at first light.
Wow … I would never ever spend a minute at a place like that!
I loved these stories. FYI, that Arkansas story was my very first Carolyn video. I remember that you seemed so proud of yourself for blurting out "WE are okay". Great reflex!
LOL. Yes! I was a little surprised at myself. Thank you very much for being here.
That might have been my first video, but believe me I have caught up. I think I have seen everything now. I have actually watched your Alaska trip three times. So good. Stay safe out there. Hugs for you and Sadie!@@CarolynsRVLife
I remember all these...Thanks for a great distraction...been trying to not watch all the news...what a mess we are in.
I know what you mean. I'm doing the same. Glad to provide distraction :-)
Gavin de Becker wrote the book 'The Gift of Fear' which affirms what your gut told u and you got to safety. In the book he gives real life examples of women who went against their gut and got taken, or violated. The stats on men being the scariest are dire. Stay strong and be safe.
I think I would definitely have a dog with me, if I was alone. You just never know nowadays what’s gonna come along your way.
I was with 2 of my 4 brothers, my husband, and a cousins wife, who was giving us a late night tour of Bourbon Street, New Orleans, Louisiana. The hair stood up on the back of my neck when I realized we were being followed.
The man was always looking directly at me, when I looked around, at each place we stopped, or on the street, as we toured the famous Parrish. I felt safe with my group, but if I’d been alone, or with just women, I know in my heart that I wouldn’t have been safe, or what could have happened.
I’ve never had any desire to ever revisit the evil I felt there.
You know, my Spidey Senses were on full high alert on Bourbon Street when we stopped for a brief visit while enroute to another state. I don't know what it was about that place & I'm normally not an alarmist, but I just couldn't get put of there fast enough. I had a couple minor wierd encounters with some locals (one lady kept following me & asked me for $$$ "to feed her starving baby", which, when she held it up to show me, was in fact a plastic doll.) but nothing that serious to give me the creeps that severely.
Wow, I also had a weirdly strong unsettling feeling while visiting that town - I’ve rarely ever had it anywhere else, and certainly not for as long as I did while there. It mystifies me to this day, because my visit seemed to be going g super well, but it was so uncomfortable that I changed my travel plans to leave much earlier than intended.
I know this is from 2023, but always great helpful advice. Thanks for sharing. 🥰🥰🥰
Hi Carolyn 👋 literally just came upon you...and very pleased I did 🙏 I'm English and whilst I've never travelled my country in the same style as yourself, I've always admired people that do. I certainly agree with you re more scared in busy surroundings rather than out in nature. Doesn't dismiss of course instances like you had with random men not having innocent thoughts in their heads! Keep on enjoying what you do and of course sharing ❤ I'm not healthy enough to be able to 'do', but certainly enjoy watching. Blessings ✨️🌟
I have told people (men) about the fear issue--they tend to dismiss it, and say, "you shouldn't live in fear." Well. it DOES happen, and sometimes, when we are out there, if your rig isn't nearby, it's pretty scary. Any time on a trail, when a male passes by me, I always turn around to make sure they kept on walking. So far, they have.
Figures a man would say that.
They have no clue what it's like for women to worry about rape, something that doesn't happen often to men.
Women also carry a purse, easier to rob.
Generally men are larger and stronger than women.
I carry a loud hunting whistle on my key chain, another on my purse and several in my van in different locations.
Blowing that whistle will call people's attention more than hollering HELP.
1st thing I always do is look all around where I'm at and find escape routes and never sit with my back to and entrance door. Always want to see who is coming in.
Some may think this is going overboard. Not in today's world, no one is safe from crime today.
@@carolynlasher8896 Better to be over-prepared than under! And yes, you never hear of a psychopathic woman breaking into a single man's 'home and raping them. So they have no idea what that fear is like.
Men are also the ones high in statistics that die in avoidable accidents, get too close to cliffs and do Daredevil stuff and most of missing hikers are ...men. because they will rather tackle a bear than take a bear mace and a location beacon with them. Like that super experienced guy that smoked some MJ and then went out when he knew the weather will turn to snow storms soon and he got trapped in a remote location, held up 3 months almost, wrote his diary on how much he regrets his decision to smoke and let it mess with his common sense. He knew he wasn't equipped for the weather that was about to come but weed brain made him think he could outrun it. I have so many more stories. There's also a clip on UA-cam of a guy climbing over the fence at the canyon and in front of the cam of another visitor, he lost balance and fell and then slithered all the way down to the edge...and down.
@@thesecretshade Well, probably as many stories of women doing stupid things, but the point is that men don't feel the same sort of fear women do. Testosterone does probably have a lot to do with risky behavior though--
I am a guy. I recall once meeting a single woman on the trail backpacking heading the same direction (I was solo). She asked if she could hike and camp with me and we did for a few days. Another time I was backpacking with my friend (a guy too) and a solo female backpacker did the same and hiked and camped with us for three days and nights I think it was. That was a very long time ago but I guess they both felt safer not alone though we didn't know each other. It seems there are more crazies now.
When I used to hike by myself, I would pad myself to be bulkier on the top and then wore a men's large rugby jacket. No makeup, just kept my long hair in a rubber band. I didn't smile or act friendly if i met someone on the trail. I would make direct eye contact and nod silently. No one bothered me.
About the Highway of Tears, I'm so glad you let the RCMP know. I also believe that we should always listen to our inner voices. We are the descendants of humans who developed and honed those instincts, the least we can do is listen to them! ❤
Had similar situations happen a couple times on the Arizona - Mexico border camping in a designated camping area that ran for several miles along and close to the border. I am my friend were sleeping our tent and at 2:00 AM, a monster truck came blasting by and pulled into our driveway. A spotlight came on and panned us. We wondered what was going to happen next. Finally they just drove away. All night border patrol came flying through on the campground main road. The next morning we saw a bus loaded with aliens that had been picked up overnight and were going in for processing. We were down there to see wildlife and birds, but knew things could get interesting. Once in a remote part of the Grand Canyon, we had set up our tents by a creek, and this odd individual came through our camp. We had seen him up on the ridge earlier kind of yelling at another hiker. We had only seen two people all day, so not a lot of people around. When he came through our camp I tried to engage him in conversation and his response was incoherent. My companions were afraid that we would be murdered during the night. But I told them I thought it would be OK as after engaging him, I believed that he had a hearing disability. Honestly, I would never travel alone anywhere, except in my own woodland behind my house. It is even more important when one goes hiking to have a companion. There is usually safety in numbers. If one person has an accident or health crisis, hopefully the other person is healthy and smart enough to be able to help and do something about it. As a woman that used to travel alone for work, I was always cautious as to who was around and who seemed to be paying attention to me. Posture is very important; not looking weak, scared or like I don’t know where I am or what I am doing. This goes also for walking around in big cities. When I first went to school in downtown Minneapolis, we got a lot of instruction in protection of ourselves. Our instructors talked to us, but a police woman was brought in for several hours of training. I’ve never forgotten what I learned and have used it often. It provided a lot of confidence then and for my later life. The police woman said we needed to be smart and not take excessive changes with our lives and well-being and she told us how to do that. You take care Carolyn!!
So sad that as women we have to have our guard up at all times. even when alone.
I would have drove away, when I saw them walking into the woods with a shovel. We do have to be very vigilant in these days trust your gut always. Just because they left without doing anything to you, Doesn’t mean they they wouldn’t have. Always better safe than sorry! Glad all went well then for you.
100% Let's use logic. What is THAT important that a bunch of you and your friends/family need to go into the woods at night with a shovel...that couldn't wait for daylight? Most of the time...nothing good!
@@bobcaygeon6799 exactly!!
@@bobcaygeon6799 Vielleicht mußte sie dringend mal ein großes Geschäft erledigen und hat sich nicht allein in den Wald getraut. Die Schaufel erklärt sich dann von selbst.
@@Kirsch-Mamsell Yeah, OK, maybe...🤔
My experience was not RVing but at a workplace! As the last person leaving, the maintenance man approached and indicated he was interested in moving on me! My response was my husband is 6’3 and he will kill you! Jumped in my car and got away! He later claimed I misunderstood him! It was true about my husband, I am glad I said it because it threw him off enough so I could get away!
I would add, in that last story, I would have NOT BOTHERED about my lunch. Just cell etc. And maybe even say "I'll be right back" Picking up your lunch alerted him that you were on to him. That might have been enough with a different predator, to have gotten you taken.
That trail of tears story was truly scary! So happy your reflexes kicked in and you were safe.
Thank you for being real. Thank you for not saying that nothing is ever going to happen to you on the road and simply to be aware, if nothing else. Awareness is the key. It can be practiced and considered without being paranoid.
My husband and I rented a farmhouse in rural Ohio. Lots of acres and ponds.
One morning I was strolling around pond with my dog. A giant Irish Wolfhound but very gentle.
Anyway a guy comes out of nowhere right in front of me and asks if he can fish there sometimes.
I said he’d have to ask owner. Then two more guys appear. I’m surrounded and said my husband was near. But they just stood there.
This when my gentle never aggressive dog started growling. I held her by her collar. She turned ferocious. I said I can’t hold onto her much longer and they left quickly.
Nothing like having an 170 lb badass dog except soon there after I started firearms training and even eventually became an instructor.
Now I go nowhere without a concealed carry weapon
I remember when that scariest experience happened to you. I think I actually cried. I was so relieved you went with your gut. Big hug!❤🐾
Good video! Always a good idea to stay on guard. No matter if your in town in a crowd or out in a forest by yourself. 👍👍 Stay safe out there.
I can't believe the PTSD freezing thing that's crazy! I never put two into together with that. My Son fell through a glass table. Once I froze. I couldn't even move to see if he was OK thank God he was. My niece fell down a set of stairs outside, I did the same thing. I'm so glad that you mention that you learn something new every day. Thank you so much. Stay safe and your travels.
Be safe out there! Lots of crazies. Thanks for posting. Always trust your gut instincts.
I think sometimes our fight or flight response keeps us from realizing how dangerous a situation is because our subconscious knows we will freeze, and that we need to act.
Always, always, always listen to your gut.
Even just walking around town put the phone down and pay attention. Situational awareness could save your life.
For those that have never experienced it, the freeze response is horrifying. I tend to freeze when i'm extremely scared & the worst time for me was when I was in a hotel room asleep by myself, and I woke up to someone trying to break in during the middle of the night. It sounded like a very angry man demanding that I open the fcking door, rattling the handle & beating/ kicking the door & instead of my fight or flight response kicking in, I became 💯% frozen. I tried to scream & nothing came out & I literally could not move. It felt like this went on forever but in reality it was probably under a minute until my voice came back & I was able to yell "You have the wrong room"! They stopped banging, but stood out there until I yelled that I was calling 911 & they finally walked off. If they would have been able to get in while I was still frozen there would have been nothing I could have done to help myself, I was truly in a wierd state of paralysis. It still makes me cry to think about how helpless I felt. 😢
I remember all of those and think you are wise to remind people - especially with the links to those videos. When I tent camp alone, I put out two chairs and put a big jacket on the back of one. Some folks carry and old pair of big men's boots and put those handy too. It pisses me off that we have to declare ourselves 'property of' in order to be safe, but we very often do. Great warning from a beautiful location.
I love your approach to this topic, very matter of fact. You have a good head on your shoulders. Thank you for caring about all of us gals out in this crazy world.
Hi, Carolyn! I’m a new subscriber and I’m here to listen and be entertained. Curiosity about RVs, RV traveling, living, etc. in general. The spooky vibes/stories are a bonus! I’m glad you are good and proud of you for celebrating your female adventure side!
Thank you and God bless!💝✨
So happy you are safe😊
OMG. WOW! TRUST YOUR GUT no matter what! Thank YOU!!! ♥️🙏♥️
Thanks, Carolyn. Appreciate your insightful sharing. May your journey continue to be happy and healthy.
Wow, yes it’s one of my concerns of travelling alone. Yes, we must listen to what are bodies are telling us. Thank you for telling us. Safe travels my friend ❤
Thank you, Carolyn. I appreciate you sharing your experience . ❤
Strange strangers, dangerous wildlife, dangerous weather. My first thoughts for scary adventures in an RV.
Carolyn I just subscribed to your channel. Thanks for sharing your story. Thank you for taking good care of Sadie❤
I'm greatful to you for bringing awareness to so many people that are clueless to the reality of malicious people. Good people always stand out and are considered easy prey for anything and everything. It's a sad reality. Thank you for the work you put into your videos.
I really appreciate your kind words and support of my work here M.V. Thank you!
Great advice TFS!
Also great advice at end for everyone in public spaces that you always have to be aware of surroundings even in public areas!
The Alaska trip is the the first that came to mind. As a C-PTSD survivor too, I can totally relate the the freeze and delayed reactions and to trusting your gut no matter what.
I am thankful you got out of the Alaska situation unharmed. I’m guessing there were many others too.
Important video, thank you for sharing.
Great stories Carolyn. Safe travels to you.
I remember watching that video. This was an awesome video. Thanks for sharing. Love ya, Nancy
One of the first videos I saw on your channel was the "off the interstate" one. At the time I thought "wow she's brave" cause I would have been so scared. Thanks for sharing your scariest moments. Love watching Sadie run on and offscreen in the background😅
It's always good to be aware of your surroundings. One thing that came to my mind was your surroundings. I don't know where you are , however do you look at the hunting seasons where your camping in the fall? Walking around in colors that can look like a dear, elk or bear is dangerous. I'd get some hunters orange for you and Sadie. Most hunters would be sure if their target, but every so often you get a newbie or that random one who's been drinking. We almost lost our dog years ago. We had our orange in he just had his orange collar. We came across some guys out gir bear. They said they thought our dog was a bear. He had a vest the next time we took him with.
This is a REALLY great point!!!
A few years back here in Ontario, Canada, out in the countryside a young guy was hunting in camo, using a bow, on his OWN forested property, when a guy (from the nearby rez) stopped his truck on the road, pulled out his rifle and, what he thought was a deer, shot this guy...in broad daylight.
Very sad case :-( What the guy on the road did was definitely criminal negligence but the case got a lot of air time because of him being native.
I was brought up to respect the First Nations peoples of our country, and can appreciate that...for them...culturally harvesting is a way of life to provide for their family & community.
But this case unfortunately illustrated how cultures & not wearing safety vests collided with a tragedy as a result 😞
I remember you recounting each of those stories. A very good moral to each story is to be alert and listen to those gut instincts.
Thank you for putting this out Carolyn, gives us all a heads up. ♥