Traveling into the great unknown can be a lot of fun. Discovering new places adds excitement to an RV trip. Yet many people worry about RV safety. RV security is an important factor to consider, and there are several things you can do to increase the security of your RV, no matter where you are traveling.
Here are 5 simple tips to help you make smart decisions about increasing the security of your RV.
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1. Change Your Direction
Most people back into their campground site. This makes it easy to hop in your RV and go. The problem is, it makes it too easy! Why give thieves an advantage? Simply reversing the direction of your rig can help deter potential jacking. Add a hitch and a steering wheel lock to amp up your security even more. The harder you make the access, the less likely you are to have your rig stolen.
2. Beef Up Your Locks
Houses have doors with security bolts. RVs use locks that engage around the kingpin such as a padlock or a cylinder lock. There are a variety of brands available and each offers a chance to keep your valuables safe. RV security begins at your door, so consider upgrading to deadbolt lock for less than $30 on Amazon.
3. Leave Temptation Behind
This one seems pretty obvious. Don’t litter your site with valuables. Put away tablets, cell phones, and extra gadgets. Pull the blinds after dark in your rig. Don’t be a lone ranger. Camp near other people. Get a safe. Each of these simple steps will keep robbers at bay.
4. Install Security
If you want security, a system is a small price to pay. A favorite for many road dwellers is the Simply Safe Security system — although it does require an internet connection, there is no wiring or contract required. You can install an alarm system for doors as well as indoor and outdoor cameras. A full security kit comes with a high price tag but the peace of mind it will provide you and your family is priceless.
Many RV owners choose to set up their security by adding motion detector lights. When motion is detected in the region around your rig, the lights come on and stay on for a period of time. Lights should be placed all around your camper as well as at the door and the corners of your rig. RV security can include alarms can as well. Just remember, if you are in the woods you may also scare your neighbors if the siren starts blaring.
5. Cover Your Boot
Boot locks cover the wheel and prevent it from turning, which is a simple defense against thieves. It also protects your lug nuts. If your lug nuts cannot be stolen, your wheels will stay on.
Common RV Security Risks
Now that we’ve covered some of the easiest ways to reduce your RV security risks, let’s take a closer look at the risks themselves. After all, what you can undersatnd, you can avoid!
Theft
As you’ve seen from our tips above, theft of your RV is always one of the largest risks. In fact, according to the insurance carrier Progressive, about 17,000 RVs are stolen each year in the U.S. That means that taking steps like buying a boot lock or steering wheel lock can go a long way toward increasing your security. (And, perhaps even more importantly, your peace of mind.)
Break-Ins
Theft of your rig while it’s left unattended is pretty scary, but for many campers, the idea of a break-in while you’re “home” is even scarier — particularly if you’re traveling solo or boondocking in remote, off-grid areas. That’s why we’ve recommended adding an upgraded lock to your door, as well as the option of investing in a full security system.
You can also take simple steps, such as leaving a light on at night or placing two pairs of shoes outside of your front door, to help your rig look occuped and not like an easy target. If you’re traveling alone, consider avoiding remote and unlit areas, and no matter how you’re traveling (or who you’re traveling with), avoid leaving valuables in conspicuous areas or broadcasting your exact location on social media.
Vandalism
Vandalism can be a problem if you leave your RV unattended for long periods of time in a place you can’t see. While most reputable RV storage locations should take their own security measures, you’re well within your rights to ask what, exactly, those measures are. Additionally, avoid parking your RV for long periods of time on city streets or in other insecure scenarios where vandalism might occur. Again, making the rig look occupied can help ward off would-be vandals.
Information Security Risks
These days, a lot of security isn’t just about physical safety anymore. Along with monitoring your social media and being careful about what you’re sharing (particularly around your location), you’ll also want to be on the lookout for credit card skimmers at fueling stations and stay wary about what information you share on public WiFi (which full-time RVers commonly use for work). You might also consider using a VPN to increase your overall cybersecurity; NordVPN is a popular one amongst travelers. (That’s not an ad, we just like them!)
RV Security Checklist
Looking to stay safe at a glance? Here’s a quick checklist to keep you on track.
- Park in well-lit, visible areas with activity nearby.
- Keep doors, windows, and exterior compartments locked at all times.
- Hide valuables and keep nothing enticing visible through windows.
- Use wheel, hitch, or steering locks as visible deterrents.
- Position the entry door where it’s harder to access or out of sight.
- Leave a light or sound on to make the RV appear occupied.
- Never stash spare keys outside the rig.
- Delay posting location on social media until after departure.
- Connect only to trusted WiFi and use a VPN on devices.
- Change default passwords on routers, hotspots, and smart RV devices.
- Secure fuel purchases and watch for pump skimmers.
- Store registration and personal documents on your person rather than leaving them in the RV.
- Get to know nearby campers or campground staff to increase passive surveillance.
- Relocate if anyone loiters, tests handles, or gives a bad vibe.
- Backup electronics and keep essential items with you when leaving the rig.
RV Security: Frequently Asked Questions
While you don’t necessarily need an alarm in your RV, installing one could help reduce the risk of theft or break-ins, not to mention increase your peace of mind. Additionally, some insurers may cut you a break on your premiums if you install security devices like an alarm system.
Maybe! Each insurance carrier has its own rules and regulations as far as what security devices count toward premium discounts, but a GPS tracker (which could help locate your RV much more easily in the event of a theft) could certainly qualify.
When boondocking, choose an area that’s within sight of other campers whenever possible, and leave on at least an exterior light at night to help the RV look occupied. Wheel, hitch and boot locks can also come in handy, particularly if you’ll be leaving the RV for longer periods of time.
What would you do to secure an RV? Do you have other ideas or suggestions? If so, add your thoughts to the comment box below this article. We want to hear your thoughts.
Want more information on your front door lock? Check out our ultimate RV door lock guide for tips, upgrading information, and all you need to know!
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