By Cheri Sicard
Ever wondered how to camp undetected? Steve Wallis, known for his creative camping setups, takes it to the next level with a DIY camper disguised as a trailer full of pallets. (We last met Steve, 1.88M subscribers, when he built a camper that resembled a pile of yard waste.)
Like all of Steve’s outrageous builds, this isn’t just about building a camper; it’s about mastering the art of stealth camping and enjoying a night out in plain sight. Steve documents the entire process, from the build to the actual camping experience, showcasing the project’s success and some lessons learned along the way.
Deception on wheels
At first glance, the camper appears to be a typical trailer loaded with pallets. However, this is a clever disguise. The exterior is a veneer, concealing a hollow camper inside.
The camper has sections with enough height to stand. An old window serves as a skylight. For security, Steve installed a 360° surveillance system. This allows him to monitor the surroundings and know when it’s safe to step outside. A small electrical system, powered by a battery and inverter, provides power. Due to limited ventilation, cooking with an open flame isn’t an option.
The door latches shut with magnets and is strapped for transport. Screws and ratchet straps hold everything securely to the trailer. To remain inconspicuous, the camera lights are modified with pipe strapping to cover the red lights.
The trailer’s high center of gravity posed a challenge. To solve this, Steve added extra tongue weight for improved safety.
Scouting the perfect stealth camping spot
What makes a good stealth camping location? Steve looks for a few key things. An empty parking lot is essential. Proximity to amenities like a gas station, grocery store, and restaurant is a big plus. Decent lighting is also important.
Steve chose a hardware store parking lot for this adventure. It’s convenient and close to the highway, a pet store, a gas station, and a pub. The idea is that anyone seeing the trailer would assume he’s just hauling pallets for a bonfire.
Time for dinner. Jambalaya is on the menu, cooked in a slow cooker.
Steve conducts an “FBI-level stakeout” to check how visible the camper is from the outside with the lights on. Exiting the camper stealthily, he assesses the camouflage. The lights above help conceal the interior light.
The morning arrived, and it was an easy, comfortable night. Packing up, Steve prepares to leave. He reflects on the success of the build and the stealth camping experience. The unconventional pallet design works to avoid suspicion. Keeping keys handy is essential in case of theft.
While the pallet camper was a success, there’s always room for improvement. The sloped sleeping position due to the drop hitch needs addressing.
The pallet camper is a unique way for Steve to enjoy a stealth camping adventure. Its unconventional design draws attention away from the fact that someone might be camping inside. The experience was enjoyable, the meal was tasty, and new memories were made. The video showcases Steve’s ingenuity and passion for the outdoors.
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You never know, someone may want to steal the pallets. Companies do pay you for them.
It’s not my cup of tea, but that is pretty darn clever!
Thank you, Cheri, for sharing and summarizing the video. Steve certainly has a YouTube recipe for success, gaining subscribers and associated ad revenue to fund his projects. Seems more of a way to challenge himself than a practical way to “camp.” Interesting none the less. Have a great day and safe travels!