A simple guide to Stealth Camping
What is stealth camping?
Stealth camping is camping quietly and discreetly—often for just one night—in places where camping isn’t clearly designated. The goal is to blend in, leave no trace, and be gone by morning. People do it to save money, travel lightly, or enjoy a low-impact adventure vibe.
It’s commonly used by bike packers, backpackers, thru-hikers, and minimalist travellers, but can include car camping, campervans, RVs, and even caravans.
Core principles
- Be invisible: no lights, loud noise, or obvious camp signs.
- Arrive late, leave early: set up near dusk, pack up at sunrise.
- Leave no trace: it should look like no one was ever there.
- Respect people & nature: don’t block paths, damage land, or disturb anyone – it will only increase your risk of being asked to move.
- Don’t share your location on camping apps or social media – if lots of people start using a spot, you may find local residents or authorities taking steps to prevent it
What’s the difference between Stealth Camping and Wild Camping?
Location, location, location! Wild Camping is about getting back to nature and choosing remote, scenic places to do so. While it shares many core values with Stealth Camping – leave no trace, respect nature, don’t block paths or damage land - Wild Camping is more likely to be in a permitted area, and stays will be longer than just one night. Stealth camping can happen anywhere, and you’ll be in and out before anyone notices. It’s the difference between escaping the modern world and simply finding a quiet, safe place to sleep.
Practical tips for stealth camping
1. Pick the right spot
- Look for natural cover from footpaths or roads: tree lines, hedges, behind bushes, dips
- Avoid private yards, playgrounds, busy trails, and flood-prone areas.
- In towns, industrial zones or unused land are often quieter than parks.
- Never assume that just because there are others in or near the spot you’ve found that it’s okay to be there.
2. Use low-profile gear
- If you’re camping, choose a tent in dark or earth-tone colours (green, brown, grey).
- If you’re in a van, the smaller the better. Don’t set up awnings or equipment outside the van.
- Headlamp with red light mode or very low brightness.
3. No campfires (seriously)
- Campfires create light, smoke and smell, which can draw instant attention especially in the summer months when locals will be on the alert for wildfires. They’ll also leave a scorched area behind. In dry areas, fires can also be dangerous or illegal.
- Eat cold food or use a small camp stove away from your sleeping spot if needed.
4. Keep it quiet & scent-free
- No music, no phone speakers.
- Talk quietly. If you’re travelling with a dog, be confident it won’t bark at everything
- Minimise cooking smells – fresh meat or fish cooked over a flame or in a frying pan is quite distinctive – a tin of beans and a baked potato not so much
- Pack away food securely (also helps avoid animals).
5. Consider water supply
If you can find a spot near water - a lake, river or stream - and have a portable purifier, water supply while Stealth Camping won't be an issue. The LifeSaver Bottle, Liberty or Wayfarer are small enough to fit in a backpack and will ensure you have plenty to drink overnight.
If water isn't guaranteed, make sure you fill up when you can. You can always fill empty bottles to purify later. A LifeSaver Cube or Jerrycan is perfect for those on four wheels.
6. Be mentally ready to leave
- If someone notices you or it feels wrong - pack up and move on.
- Maintain confidence and calm matter if questioned; be polite and non-defensive. Remember, technically, you probably shouldn’t be there. If you're asked to move on, do so without fuss.
7. Know the legal grey areas
- Laws vary by country, state, and city. Know them and abide by them.
- Stealth camping is often tolerated on public land if you’re discreet and respectful—but not guaranteed.
- When in doubt, don’t argue; relocate.
Safety notes
- Tell someone roughly where you’ll be.
- Trust your instincts - if a spot feels sketchy, it probably is. You don’t want to find yourself surrounded by bored teenagers, drug dealers, or couples seeking a discreet liaison.
- Be mindful of wildlife, weather, and visibility at night.
- In urban areas, personal safety must take precedence over convenience.
Who is stealth camping for?
Stealth camping is perfect when travelling alone or as a pair, looking for one-night stops. Experienced campers will be better at spotting a potential site and will be quicker at setting up and striking camp if they need to leave in a hurry.
It's not suitable for big groups, long stays, loud setups, or beginners without outdoor skills. Camping apps will have details of low-cost sites, often recommended by fellow travellers. Check out our app review here.