Is it Safe to Travel Solo in a Camper Conversion Van?
I’m a cautious solo traveler.
I’m a cautious solo traveler.
It was a couple of years ago that I became interested in camping and traveling. I looked at getting a pull-behind camper, a class C and a van. I didn’t want to get a pull behind, for fear of backing it in a camp spot. Plus, I didn’t like the idea of getting out of my truck and walking outside to get in the camper, for a variety of reasons. Mostly for my safety.
It’s not safe or convenient for me
A pull behind camper is just not safe for me. If I ran into trouble, it would be too difficult to load up and move away. Knowing this about pull behinds, I decided the camper van would be more suitable for my needs.
I purchased a 2016 Dodge Ram Promaster Cargo Van
I purchased a Ram Promaster 2500 cargo van online. I was able to view the vehicle with a google product the salesman was using. He was able to zoom in and zoom out and show me small details and answer any questions that I asked him. He was professional and gave me a better tour over if I were there in person or face to face.
After I made the purchase of the cargo van, it was delivered to me on time and I hired a carpenter to help me build it out. We started the job in March 2020 and finished about the last part of April 2020. Neither one of us knew anything about conversion vans.
I watched You-Tube videos and got ideas on how to insulate, install a noise reduction system, water, electric, heat and air-conditioning. It was fun creating the set-up. But after traveling in it over a year, I realize some of my mistakes I made. Just small mistakes, nothing I can’t correct or live with.
Traveling solo with two small dogs
I frequently travel around Texas, Arizona and Nevada with my two small Tibetan Terriers. They hear the slightest noise and bark. I like that, because it keeps me aware of my surroundings.
I have plenty of everything I need in the van. The camper is easy to drive and park. I usually camp in paid campgrounds so I can hook up to electricity and use my air conditioning. But in the cooler months, I can use my small solar generator to power my 12-volt fan and use the Maxx air ceiling fan — I could park almost any place.
I can park anywhere and be comfortable. Usually, I stop off at roadside parks to eat, walk the dogs, read and write and maybe take a little nap. I have a very comfortable twin size bed with a memory foam mattress where I sleep like a baby. If it’s cold and rainy outside, I turn on my Mr. Buddy propane heater.
Isn’t it wonderful to live in an age where we have access to You Tube videos and learn about almost anything we want to know.
I continue to follow certain campers who have a You Tube channel and learn so much from them. I appreciate the knowledge they are sharing.
Being out in nature is so gratifying. I feel happier and healthier. Most campers are very friendly and helpful.
Take Away
Camping and traveling in a conversion van is a great choice for one or two people. It’s convenient and compact. It’s a good way to get out into nature and enjoy the sights. I feel safe as a solo traveler in my camper van. I keep my doors locked at all times and practice caution around strangers. I don’t travel at night and know where I am going. I’m never in a hurry, which makes my trips more enjoyable.
Thanks for reading.