Would like to know what steps (besides long one)every one takes with security when free camping. About to purchase a 14.44-5 at the Brisbane show. We will be travelling around a bit and only stay at caravan parks occasionally. Interested in what to look out for. Thanks in advance to all.
Free camping and security
- Thread starter Middo
- Start date
Is that personal security or van security ? Never really thought about personal safety when free camping, just latch the door & everything will be ok
Hi Middo,
Welcome to the forum guys, hope the purchase goes well, we head into the show tomorrow.
Free camping is brilliant, we did a Central Aust trip and was our first experience at free camping and loved it.
There's lots of variations to free camping I guess, and some free camping that's has a small cost in the case of NP's.
Given this was our first go we were a little cautious.
For those overnight stops close to roads we looked for places where there were other Vans. Figured security in numbers. We left the van hooked up as well. Plenty of lighting as well, we leave all external lights on ( 3 of) until bed. Pretty much don't leave anything outside, mainly for the quick get away in the morning as much as security.
Have stayed in the one place also for a week. Again plenty of vans around. I run a chain and padlock around the expensive stuff and lock to the van. Things like the Webber and hitch. For other items we trust people, there things like the camping chairs. As for the van we have GPS Tracking in built. So if they are that way inclined we'll just leave it to the boys in blue and tell them where it is.
Maybe for personal security but mostly in case of remote area accident we carry an EPIRB in the car/van. We lock up when off to bed.
Never felt a problem with personal security though. Exactly the opposite actually, wonderful like minded people out there travelling, and always good for a story.
That's our experience with free camping.
HM
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I used to sleep on the semi back when I was doing interstate, sometimes too tired to get into the bunk just a pillow over the wheel with the window still down, now in the van same thing, just go to sleep, if they want it or me they will take it no matter what, I lock the door "if I remember" but never even think about it really, you do pick your spots though.
Well I'll be buggered.....small bloody world....
skimmo is well, flying to Cook Islands next week. It did cross my mind for a second...Middo, I once new a Middo....how's retirement treating you?
And there pretty cheap @Wanda, small to. I bought a small, strong, foam filled PVC box for it to keep it safe. Sat phone was a little costly for us.
http://www.expandasdownunder.com/threads/hms-central-australia-trip.3136/page-3
This is the eBay seller...
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/ACR-RESQ..._Parts_Accessories&hash=item4178ef56ed&_uhb=1
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I just downloaded a machine gun app. Play a little bit of al pacino and let them have the M16 through the outside speakers.
Personal security = Black Panadol! (Maglite) As for security of van, we did some free camping a couple of years ago, and now with the Panda, about to set off again, we just found the best security was camping where others were. Its not generally those who are like minded we have to be worried about, but more those who come around when they see an opportunity. So when you are looking for a site to camp, obviously we don't want to be on top of each other, but wander around and say goodday to those who are camping nearby, so they may recognise you as being a camper, which will help to ensure your safety, and there for that matter!
