As a solo female traveler, safety is always top of mind. Anytime I pull into a campground I check for the following:
- Where is the nearest bathroom?
- Where is the camp host?
- What are my neighbors and do they look sketchy?
I’ve been camping for much of my adult life, rotating setups as my desires and needs changed. From bike camping, to car camping, to a rooftop tent and now in a Vandoit, these basic precautions and listening to my gut have served me well over the years.
Living in the Vandoit: A New Sense of Security
After nearly three weeks of living out of the Vandoit, I recently had a realization about safety. I inherently think about it a lot less, especially when I’m getting ready to sleep. There are three main reasons for this:
- I can lock the doors in the Vandoit
- I can be stealthy in the van
- I’m 100% self-contained in the van and can drive away quickly if needed
Reflecting on Past Experiences: The Rooftop Tent
I wasn’t always so lucky to be in a Vandoit. In fact, last year, I went on an extended road trip in my Kia Soul with a rooftop tent. While comfortable, I was often hesitant to camp due to safety concerns. When the rooftop tent is set up, it’s plainly obvious to anyone and everyone that someone is sleeping up there. If, for some reason, I needed to leave quickly, I simply couldn’t, as taking down the tent took at least ten minutes (on a good day.)
Conclusion: Prioritizing Safety and Enjoying the Journey
Living out of the Vandoit has significantly eased my safety concerns as a solo female traveler, allowing me to focus more on the joys of the journey rather than the potential dangers. The ability to lock the doors, stay stealthy, and quickly move if necessary has brought a newfound peace of mind to my camping experiences.
While my rooftop tent provided many great memories, the Vandoit offers a level of security and convenience that truly enhances my sense
of freedom and adventure. It’s a reminder that, while my setup might change, prioritizing safety and listening to our instincts remain constant keys to a fun, safe, and secure travel experience.