Working out can be a great way to care for yourself mentally and physically. However, you may find it hard to focus when someone stares at you the entire time.
We recently read a post from a fellow RVer who encountered this situation during her yoga routine. Unfortunately, a handful of men showed their true sides when they took offense to her request for advice on handling the situation.
Today, we’re diving into this situation and sharing some helpful tips to avoid being a creep while RVing.
Let’s go!
Woman Turns to Facebook for Leering Neighbor in her RV Park
We recently stumbled upon a post from a fellow RVer who enjoys doing yoga. However, she states that a neighboring RVer sits outside and enjoys a cigar while watching her work out.
She admits he’s not done anything besides make her feel uncomfortable. Her intent of the post was to look for ways to block her exercise area from unwanted eyes.
Unfortunately, after 129 comments, the group’s administrators had to shut down the post. Commenters seemed split on who was at fault in the situation.
Sadly, a Majority of Men Think She Deserves to be Stared at
Unsurprisingly, those pointing fingers at the woman were predominantly men. They stated that if she wanted privacy, she should go inside and that she was full of herself for assuming he was staring at her.
Honestly, it was sad to see these comments.
However, it wasn’t just the men who were blaming her. Some women were shaming her, too. They encouraged her to wear baggy and non-revealing clothes or move to the other side of her camper.
Many negative comments portrayed the “boys will be boys” mentality.
However, we no longer live in the 1950s, and women deserve respect. Luckily, a few good men in the group sided with the RVer.
While the Women Provide Tips for a More Private Outdoor Space
While some women blamed her, most offered support and gave her valuable tips on addressing the unwanted glances. Some shared suggestions about barriers, structures, and other reasonable options.
Many of the women stated they had been on the receiving end of unwanted stares from creeps in the past and sympathized with her.
Clearly, the number of those supporting the RVer far outnumbered those who opposed her. Thankfully, supporters were male and female, giving us hope for the community.
No one should feel uncomfortable because neighbors cannot keep their eyes to themselves.
How Not to Be a Creep While RVing
Maybe the man in the situation is unaware of his creepy behavior because no one has told him. However, you won’t have that excuse since you’re about to read our tips for not being a creep while RVing.
Don’t Stare
As we discussed in the story, there’s nothing worse than having someone stare at you. Whether someone is doing yoga, backing into their campsite, or sitting around the campfire, avoid staring.
There’s nothing more uncomfortable than having someone sit and stare at you while trying to relax or enjoy yourself.
Staring kills the vibe and leaves everyone feeling uncomfortable. If you want to meet or join them in the fun, walk over and introduce yourself. Instead of getting labeled a creep, you may make new friends once you get to know each other.
Again, there’s a significant difference between looking and staring. A short glance over at the campsite to see what is going on is one thing.
However, sitting there with your eyes glued on the site’s occupants is entirely different. It doesn’t matter whether they’re wearing spandex or hiking clothes, don’t stare.
Respect Personal Space
The next thing you should do to avoid being a creep is to respect the personal space of other campers. Your camping neighbors likely came to the campground to relax and enjoy themselves. The last thing they want is anyone getting all up in their business.
There’s nothing wrong with saying hi or waving as you walk by. However, be sure to read the interaction.
If they’re short and sweet, they’re likely not looking to chit-chat or have a lengthy conversation. However, they may be willing to continue the interaction if they walk towards you or your site.
Unfortunately, some people are terrible at reading initial interactions. They’ll seek opportunities to share their knowledge or views with those around them.
If you’ve ever found yourself cornered by “that person” in a campground, you know what we mean.
Don’t Ask Invasive Questions
Another way to not be the campground creep is to refrain from asking invasive questions. Keep it short and simple when getting to know fellow campers.
Ask about where they’re from, where they’ve been, and some of their favorite travels. These are all quality questions that most RVers are fine discussing.
However, asking them what color their bedroom sheets are or to help you identify your latest rash are pretty creepy questions.
If you sense that they’re trying to escape the conversation, it’s too late. You’ve already said or done something, likely causing them to feel you’re a little creepy.
Don’t Hit on Your RV Neighbor
Most people go camping to spend time outdoors, disconnect from the rest of the world, and not meet their future soulmates. Don’t be “that person” who hits on your RV neighbor or tries out a pickup line.
Just like in many other situations, you can’t rush these types of situations. Sure, maybe you and your RV neighbor are both single.
Strike up a conversation and get to know them before you try hitting on them. Share a s’more or go for a hike before you try to convince them to be your adventure partner for life.
HOT TIP
If you’re a single RVer, read about The Tough Realities of Dating for Full-Time RVers to learn what it’s like to find love on the road.
Respect Others Privacy
Even though you’re camping in public, privacy’s still expected. While it may not be illegal, it’s called being a decent human being. Whether staring at them from your campsite or as you walk by, you must respect other camper’s privacy.
You likely wouldn’t take it too kindly if someone disrespected your privacy. It goes back to the golden rule of treating others how you want them to treat you. Respect that some people want to be left alone while camping.
Resist Feeling Entitled
Just because you can do something doesn’t mean you should. The man in our story has every right to sit, smoke his cigar, and look wherever he wants.
However, just because he can doesn’t mean he should.
Most people can tell if someone has a sense of entitlement. It’s often very evident in how they conduct themselves and treat others.
If you’re not caring for anyone but yourself, then there’s a good chance you’re behaving like someone who feels they’re entitled.
Be a Good Neighbor
One of the most important things you can do to avoid being a creep is to be a good neighbor. This is a relatively easy thing to do if you’re like most people.
All you have to do is follow the park rules and treat others and nature with respect. It’s really that simple.
Those who violate campground rules are some of the creepiest people you’ll find in campgrounds. Disregarding quiet hours and causing damage to the facilities are just a few things you can do to get labeled a creep by your neighbors.
Even the RV Space Can’t Escape Creepers
Creepers come in all shapes and sizes. Unfortunately, the RV community isn’t immune from them. Like many things, there are always a few bad apples in the bunch.
Luckily, most RVers are decent people. While you can’t control how others behave, you can control yourself. In a world where you can be anything, don’t be a creeper.
Have you experienced a creepy neighbor while camping?
