Ladder to stealth.

Since I work as a builder a ladder rack atop a van is a common site and a very useful item. I have a ladder rack on top of my current van which normally carries a 16' extension ladder and a 6' step ladder. It also holds any long lumber that is unable to fit inside the van.

It has also occurred to me how handy a ladder rack would be for stealth vanning.

Seeing a professional looking rack with a ladder on top of a van screams "Work Van!". No one thinks twice about them. If you have a plain, windowless van, adding a ladder rack almost makes it impossible for someone to think that the inside contains a little living room rather than racks of tools and parts. For this reason no one would find it suspect that the windows have been blocked. They will just assume that you are hiding your valuable tools from prying eyes. This little addition could make it even easier to park overnight in front of a business or residential area without looking like you are sleeping inside.

Also, having a ladder on the rack can come in very handy. If you pick up odd jobs as you travel, a ladder will allow you to have more versatility in the things you do. If you are only going to own one ladder, buy a multi position ladder such as the "Little Giant Ladder" or the less expensive version made by Werner and available at Home Depot. It can be a step ladder, an extension ladder, scaffolding etc.

In addition to the ladder, many plumbers and electricians carry a large lenght of PVC or ABS plastic pipe on their ladder rack that is capped on the ends in which to carry smaller sizes of pipe and conduit. Having this setup atop your van adds to the professional look of your rig and also makes perfect storage for things like fishing rods, tent poles, rolled up rugs for the campsite etc. You could also use the black ABS pipe, seal it up, add a fill spout and a spigot and have a big solar water heater on top of your van. Be sure to use a sturdy rack and secure it well if you do this, it will be very heavy when filled.

If you do a good amount of stealth camping, the more your van looks like a work van the better.