We Were ATTACKED While We Slept In Our Campervan 

I am sorry that some jerks tried to ruin your vacation but I applaud you for including the story of what happened to you. I think too many RU-vidrs only share the positive things and while what happened to you shouldn’t deter you or anyone else from enjoying vanlife, it’s a great eye opener to remind people that it doesn’t always go right and to stay safe.

After many years sleeping in lay bys, truck stops etc. when working as a lorry driver I've had a good few incidents like yours. Thieves after diesel, the goods on the trailer or even the vehicle itself. You're a brave man Tom, I know you must have some skills but please, if at all possible don't get out and confront these people. If you can drive away then do that, I'd hate you to be seriously hurt or worse. Stay safe and I'm glad you are both keen to continue your journey.

So we’re going to tell you but we’re not going to tell you, but we we want to be honest with you, but we’re going to dance around what happened and still not tell you. Jeez. Get to the point.

A tip a lone female vandweller gave once was to always back into the parking spot so she had a quick get away if she was attacked. Another tip, label your deisel sewerage and no one will steal it

We’ve been camper vanning for 5 years. We quickly realised its not always safe to stop over in beauty spots. We had an incident where we were woken up in middle of night by people in cars shouting, and I was scared. We decided to look for small basic, scenic campsites to stop over, and have found absolute gems, and had the best time ever. We did Scotland for two weeks, we didn’t wild camp once, and felt safe on fab campsites. We only stopped in beauty spots in daylight. Be careful, there are dangerous people around. Not everyone likes camper vanners, as not all camper vanners are respectful of the local community.

I appreciate your honesty and for not making it seem like van life is always wonderful. Glad you are safe.

I always have these thoughts in the back of my mind about being threatened while staying in isolated spots. Sad to have to worry about these things. Glad you’re both ok. Also glad it hasn’t put you off.

Glad you're both safe, it's a different world out there, we all need to stay aware of more.

Very similiar thing happened to my family and I at a beach resort in California many years ago. I was only about 12 years old, but I can still remember being woken up by loud banging on the sides of my mom and dad's 5th wheel camper. Luckily my dad had his firearm with him and ultimately scared the group of guys away. But you know, here in the states you don't know whether you're walking out into an open gun fight or not. I just remember feeling so scared for my pops. Crazy night

False information, you said you were attacked and yet there is nothing to show that. You don’t want to go into to details. Why ? That’s all you kept saying. You led us on so basically you are untruthful. I’m unsubscribing. Good bye. You are what you say.

You kept saying you want to be honest but you never really say what happened

Thank you for being honest and open about what happened! There is always someone who wants to spoil things. In a way it was good you were there. Think about the poor lady and her grandson. I don’t think there maybe wouldn’t have been able to chase those idiots off like you did. Well done for doing that! Stay safe

Makes me hold compassion for our homeless people, who don't even have a van/shelter to offer some protection 😢.. just subscribed, loving your journey 🎉❤

I think it’s a hoax because of the missing details

Just had this vid pop up in my recommended vids. Sorry to hear about the attack, I think being open and honest with your subscribers is the best thing as other VanLifers need to know of potential dangers in areas we will travel to or avoid certain park ups etc. I’m buying a van next year to do solo (plus Jack Russell) travels in UK and hopefully Italy and incidents like your attack makes me more aware. It’s good to be reminded of dangers as I defo get chilled and drop my guard too often. I sold my Type 2 (Gertie) in 1996 and I’m researching what to buy next so I’m subscribing for more tips. If you don’t mind ‘reliving/rehashing’ the attack, more info on how you resolved would be helpful. Glad to see it didn’t spoil your holiday. Safe travels 🐝

You don’t want to go into details but you’re telling this story- and you used it in the title as click bait. Weird.

I've know two different families that went over to the UK to travel and see the country. Both couples cut their trips short because of dealing with out of control people, rude people and a general lack of respect for others. It's not nearly as hospitable as people want to pretend. Thank you for your honesty, most people act like it's all wonderful, when the truth is there is quite a bit of seediness going on with the police seeming to have little control over it.

I have just discovered this nomadic way of life through RU-vid channels! Thank you for your honesty about the attack!! I got the impression prior to hearing this, that this kind of lifestyle is actually safer than city life! I'm a female in my 60s considering doing some of this travel fairly soon, so I really appreciate the awareness you have brought to us! Thank you!! BTW, Tom, you are So Sweet and Considerate of the animals!🥰. I appreciate your consideration of the sweet calf, and it's so cute to see how you two Love your sweet Thor!! Blessings to you...🙏❤🌈

‘Dance around the subject long enough, you’ll have enough footage to make a video.’

Why can’t you tell us what happened I don’t understand, especially if you called the police

We have a German Shepherd who doesn’t suffer fools gladly. Yes he drops A LOT of hair and I’m constantly cleaning up after him but we love him to bits and he loves us too. Heaven help anyone who tries to attack us through the night. He is our wonderful companion and protector.

First time here and all I have is glad I watched to the end. I am sorry this happened to you but thank you for reminding people that there are bad people out there that are going to try and ruin your good time but don’t let them. I’m glad to hear that you’ve decided to go on because now I get to watch more videos. Prayers for safe travels my new friends

Why wouldn’t you just give us the details? Why hold back? What is to be gained?

Wow. Does he ever stop interrupting and let her talk?

"Professionally trained in conflict management" and "grabbed something from the van" leaves a whole lot of room in there for an interesting "rest of the story" when you get back home with close friends and family. Glad it turned out well for you. 👍🏻👍🏻 Stay safe.

I just found your channel. First and foremost, although this video is over a year old, I am glad you all were safe! Now, THANK YOU both for opting to share this. There are so many solo women AND men out there. The glamorous / fun side of this life is plastered all over the internet while very few videos are out there discussing this. I look at this video as a reminder that those (me included) who are thinking of experiencing this lifestyle (OR already in it) need to be just as vigilant (if not MORE) about security as deciding on a layout. Like you mentioned, this is the 1st time in 5 years to have something like this to happen. Thank goodness you all were prepared. a MUST! Again, Thank you for sharing!

Imagine what would possibly happen if YOU weren’t there to scare them off and they went for the older lady with her grandson! I think in this case you were exactly in the right spot at the right time.

I am so sorry that happened to you guys! I am happy you all are ok!!! Please please please be careful. Don't go outside again, they could have hurt you or worse. Make sure you carry protection with you. Have fun and stay safe!!!

What about the woman and her young son who were parked nearby? Guessing you legged it and left them behind?

Man, I solo camped once. It was great, but watching this makes me realize how risky that was.

So something happened during ur sleep, u made a video about that but u don't wanna share what happened... 🥴😂

Actually would have been better going into the detail about the threatening situation at the beginning of vid rather than a sketchy description around the 12 minute into vid ...

The main thing is to always stay safe when camping sometimes the correct thing to do is just drive away if you can even if you feel you want to get out and batter them. I’ve just found your channel and just spent a few hours watching it ( should have been doing a few jobs ) Thanks and stay safe

Glad I read comments first, didn't have to waste my time on click bait. Won't be watching any videos from this channel, not interested in content creators that use click bait for views.

We live in America and carry "conflict resolvers" with us when we travel. We're trained, licensed, and insured to use those conflict resolvers although we hope that we never have to. Glad y'all were able to stay safe.

You protected your property and You protected your Family Good for you Brother. So sorry that happened to you both.

Its sad that we have to be worried about attacks etc but they do happen so glad you were honest about it. I had a similar experience years ago while in a tent...... Must admit I would NEVER get out of the van as you just never know what could happen. People can be on drugs and drink and not respond rationally, or could have a knife etc. Better to just drive off in my opinion and inform the police as well.

Thank you for your honesty. I was going to block you cause I felt there was more to this story and it had me all stressed out. My wife and I boondock all over the USA and never had any problems. I always have my keys ready. I park so I can not get blocked in. I don't usually park in a secluded dark area. I don't advise getting out and confronting anybody. Your number one responsibility it to keep your wife and yourself safe. Keep on camping!

I'm very shocked to know what happened to you, that is unbelievable. Hope you're both well. This is one of the reasons why we are not 100% comfortable with wild camping by ourselves. Very good video, thank you very much for being honest and very well done to Brooke for continuing the journey. I can't imagine what we would have done, specially Dorota. Take care guys. Konrad.

Very scary confrontation! I can understand you not wanting to alarm your viewers. But, glad you mentioned it. You are smart to have it documented, for others to be aware in that area. Be safe, strength & honor to you.❤️

Man people seem to go through this in this area. It's sad. There is an app where you can see what places are safe you can say what aren't it's awesome. The whole community works together

We were attacked 😂😂😂😂😂😂

This video is bordering on click bait sorry to say, if you dont want to speak about it then leave it out of the title or better, tell all and suggest to people how to deal with similar events.

"Something happened but were not going to tell you" don't waste my time with your click bait.Why not tell us? Whatever

Me and my best buddy Sig specialize in conflict management as well...We always travel together... Sometimes Sig brings his buddy Suppressor with him...They have a codependent relationship...They're literally attached to each other...You should get a buddy like SIG!

I changed my thumbs up to down !. Cripe get to the point !!! You sharing exactly what happened is critical for other competent be aware. You folks lost me on this and any future interest posts.

I'm glad you told us about your experience. It is important for people to be prepared for such emergencies. Always make sure you have some kind of effective protection.

First, I'm glad you both are OK. Second, I appreciate your sharing this incident with your audience. But I'm left wondering exactly how you got out of this scary situation. Did you wield a weapon? Or resort to talking/Conflict management techniques? I mean, I've got to be direct here: your video extols your honesty, and as a viewer I'll take that at face value. But you're holding back a bit here--well, maybe more than a bit. Perhaps for good reason--but if so, just say it. No disrespect intended. For the record, I'm not (yet) a full time van lifer, but I've done a fair share of wild camping. Best wishes!

Sleep with your key remote and push the panic button. The alarm should send them away. If you have remote start, you can also use that. They don’t know how safe they are disturbing you, so they, like you, would prefer not having a direct conflict. Safe travels to you.

You never know who is out there and what their intentions are. I don't let that deter me from doing what I want to do... but I always carry some 'protection.' Glad you two are good. Try not to let it ruin your trips. There's trouble everywhere... just need to be prepared and aware of your surroundings.

Maybe a few motion detector lights with a few camera's would help you see what is happening without leaving the safety of the van. I enjoy camping from time to time and always carry bear spray with me. I don't carry it for the wildlife but for situations like you encountered.

It sounds to me like you're 'glossing over it' and not giving the details.

As others have said, you probably realize that getting out could have been the end for both of you? Not that staying inside guarantees your safety, but puts metal and glass between you and them, to allow you to escape. Glad it worked out well.

These days criminals break into houses even when there is a whole family there. This happened to my colleague once and a boyfriend. And they have security. It is a lot harder to find park ups with decent lights and CCTV unless you pay to park there. Saying that, criminals also target people in car parks even though there is CCTV which makes no sense but shows how brazen they are.

It's refreshing to have someone that feels like you do. It's hard to find people that tells it like it is. Thank you so much.

It's 10000% foolish to get out of the van (no matter what kind of training you have) instead of just driving away immediately. I don't know, it's like people always do the dumbest thing when there is a safer way out...

Many years ago in Italy someone broke our camper at night while we were sleeping inside and stole a lot of things. After a while I woke up because of the noise and realized that someone was inside the car. I screamed and woke up my husband. Before we could even hold the thief, he had already escaped. He had taken money, credit cards, cell phones and sunglasses with him. The idea that he could have taken my 6-month-old son with him hit me deeply and I realized how vulnerable you are in the car. That was only on the 6th day of our camper's life and I didn't sleep well for months after that. Many years later we had the camper stolen in Rome and it never turned up again.

The medicinal and edible herbs are all over the place! How beautiful!

Your episode is based on the attack that “you don’t want to go into detail about”

-- " . . . not going to go into details." -- " . . . just want to be honest with you." . No worries. You kept on going.

I'm so happy you both are okay. I'm glad you've told us your truth. It is a learning experience for others to be aware . Take care and have a ton of fun !

Years ago, me and my brother car camped. We had a visit in the night from three people. We rightly assumed they'd be back later (we did nothing first time, neither did they). We set up a tarp out off sight & waiting with weapons. The visitor's car sped past to check we we're there and we waited for them to return. Under a hour later, car pulled up, a bit further off than previous, then three guys got out and quietly headed to our car. They were armed with items to supposedly smash windows? Their muffled giggling stopped abruptly when me and my bro' came striding out of the woods in dark in ski masks, all in black with superior weaponry proclaiming we've been waiting for you boys - they fled in sheer panic - it was great to see the tables turned. We drove off laughing and found another spot miles away.

Thanks! Thank You for being truthful about the thugs that tried to ruin your vacation, your training kicked in perfectly. I probably would have over reacted, which would have only made things worse. For me, I would have looked back at my reaction after the fact, and realized that I played right into their game. This was my first video of yours that I watched and it was very touching to see how you handled the situation. Bravo and well done. I've subscribed, and hit the bell.

What a mealy mouthed dishonest description of events. No doubt you shouted at a group of drunk kids camping then when they confronted you, you jumped out of the van with a cosh/blade like a mental case. The fact that this vid has 10k dislikes and that you censor comments underlines the point. If you really were trained in conflict management you would've known how to verbally defuse the situation. 100% in the T.A..

Unsubscribed due to Click Bait.

Anyone who reiterates 30 times how honest they are and have such a pure channel, probably doesn’t have as pure of channel as one might think.

Two things usually work, either installing cameras outside your vehicle, preferably onto your roof that you can monitor from inside your vehicle, or hitting the car alarm from your key fob, if you have one.

Well done for getting away from those idiots they might have been chancers or just drunken yobs after you're van im glad you're both OK.I think it's always best to drive away incase they were carrying weapons you may have been outnumbered so best to avoid confrontation. Its sad that there are people like this around but you did the right thing anyway go safe and enjoy the rest of you're trip guys.

I think this is why it is important to have access to the front of the vehicle so you can drive to safety.

Pretty cute dog you have there guys whenyou we're walking through the fields it was beautifull I have subscribed I didn't see your videos before bye for now 🌾🐕🌾🌸🌾🐕🌾🐕

You said you were being honest but. it would worry me now as you didn’t go into details. So not totally Honest.

Love how natural and honest you too are. Breath of fresh air. I assume your not providing details of attack because it's now a police investigation. I hope so. If they've done it once they'll do it again and next time it could be much worse. Would love to know what you did to make them realise they made a big mistake . 😉😉🤣🤣

Too much good info to offer because there's a need for info about time travel ❤

We're not going into details, I'm not going to subscribe.

Dont let it put you off, enjoy Scotland.🦅.

Glad you are all safe. Please be careful and keep your doors locked. 😊

Just found you guys. Loved your vlog style. Can't wait to catch up on your channel.👍🙂 Sorry for that experience! But great it's not stopping you carrying on. Actually I would REALLY be interested as to how you DEFUSED the situation.. It takes some strength and confidence to open the door and jump out the van knowing there were "several aggressive" guys on the outside trying to get you to open the door to let them in.

Thank you. I'm so glad you were okay. Keep going and live strong as you have been 💯🙏💌🫂

I'm sorry to hear some yahoos attempted to make trouble for you. I swear no matter where you go in the world there's always someone who can't just leave well enough alone. Someone remarked further below that they fitted their van with a siren. I like that idea. I hope the rest of your adventure was more peaceful. Cheers!

How hard is it to read between the lines here people? He can't mention exactly what happened, for legal reasons alone! I think it's safe to say someone got put in their place (i.e. on their arse lol) and the rest of them probably turned tail and ran! Kudos to you Sir, the world needs more people willing to act! Also, thanks for being so open about what happened, I've often wondered if this is a possible danger of outdoor camping...

Guys,,,,,,guys,,,,,,,guys,,,,,,,,guys.

All the power to you guys, I’m scared of wild camping. Thank you for this.

Listen dude the right thing to do would be to tell us all or at least most of the details so we can learn from all the new Nuances of what happened so we can be prepared. By giving no details it’s actually a disservice. I’d say if your gunna camp. Bring a pistol, bring weapons, bear spray, maybe hidden ring camera out side, phones charged ready to call cops, and escape route directly from camper to driver set so you can drive off.

You a brave man to jump out see those guys. Thank you for the story. Well done

What a world we live in. Glad you are both safe

When you said trained in conflict resolution I thought you were going to charm them somehow. Was shocked when you said you did something that scared them off. You never said what you did that suddenly scared them off so quickly. I would like to know, would be genuinely useful to know. Please tell us.

Spot on , sharing that incident gives a good appreciated view of things that could go wrong and how to deal with them. Also I think small things like pointing out your exact location on maps could unfortunately lead idiots to you, thank you for your experiences.

BTW: I recommend you get a steering wheel lock. Very useful as a steering wheel lock (obviously) but also as a seat side weapon in case those conflict management skills prove to be ineffective. As you may know a baseball bat next to the drivers seat is illegal (at least in most countries) but a steering wheel lock, even though it looks like and/or can double as a serious piece of batting apparatus) is considered just a steering wheel lock and does not look out of place next to or under a drivers seat in a van. SO most likely no cops will get nervous and want to start confiscating or ticketing anybody... Let me tell you: I had a few instances where I was ready to defend myself as a couple of guys approached the van ready to do some damage and/or harm but they were quickly brought to changing their minds as soon as they saw me holding the steering wheel lock.... the lock and a smile always suffices... What a good thing to know, even bad people have a vivid enough imagination to be able to know when it is wise to back out of a situation fastly becoming unfavorable to them...

So glad y’all are ok and nothing worse happened. Blessings and Peace ❤️✝️

Thank you for sharing your adventures with us. Some of the places you visited appeared to be really lovely. Sorry to hear of your bad experiences with those who were harassing you. May the dear Lord keep you safe on your journeys.

This is silly you keep saying I'm not going to go into details we'll stop going in the details tell the story and quit the rhetoric I mean this is silly

I have had a local man threaten to slash my tyres and threaten us with "you never know what could happen at night when you are asleep" This was in our early days of van life, I was parked legally near the sea but near a block of 'posh flats' he lived in the basement and basement or not, I wasn't interrupting his view or anyone else's, not only that, he had no idea if I was going to stay the night as this was morning... I initially told him he would regret it if he did anything but then couldn't walk into town and leave van, was just so annoying, so I phoned the police, told them of his threats and they told me it would be better to 'just move on'..... they wouldn't even talk to him.... unreal!

I had this video pop up in my recommendations so I watched it. It must have been terrifying to be woken up that way. That being said, although you said you have been trained in conflict Management, why did you get out of the van? If they were better prepared outside the van you could have been overtaken in just imagine what could have happened to your wife. Wouldn't the smarter thing have been to get in the front seat and drive away immediately? Thank God you both are safe. But you drove away from there anyway. I would say this even to a police officer or trained military person. It just would have been so much safer to hop in the front seat and drive away then to open the door and expose all of you to what dangers were outside. Safe travels ❤️

I can't believe this happened to you mate. Some people spoil things for the rest of us. Good on Brooke for carrying on 👌

Why on Earth would you "not go into detail" or hesitate to tell people about this? This is exactly the kind of thing people considering van life need to hear about and prepare for. In my opinion, you have a DUTY to be up front about this stuff and let us know how you handled it. As someone with a long term plan to eventually do the same, I purposely look for scary stories and negative experiences just so I have a plan on how I'll handle things. I'm baffled at your hesitation.

I’m afraid that would put my wife off wild camping and a shame to hear it happened to you, glad you are both okay. I think everyone would like to know why they chose you guys though!

Living in America we have the right to defend ourselves in most states. I admire your will to keep traveling and reporting your experiences.

So for here I haven’t had a problem and I hope I don’t cus they wouldn’t like it at all. Thank y’all for telling everything it’s always best. And have a great vacation.

Glad you guys are ok!! Thanks for sharing! 😮🙌🏻

Glad I skipped most of this video to ruin your algorithm because it’s click bait. You told us nothing.