RV Security Systems: Alarm vs GPS Tracker: What to Buy

When you take to the open road in your RV, crime might be the very last thing on your mind. Still, bad things do happen, even under good circumstances — and unfortunately, that can include an RV trip.

Investing in an RV security system, such as an alarm system or GPS tracker, can not only help put your mind at ease and keep criminals at bay. Depending on your insurance carrier, investing in security devices can actually lower your overall travel cost by scoring you a discount on your insurance premiums. (After all, the insurer stands to pay out much less if your stolen RV is easily discoverable, or if a blaring alarm causes a would-be thief to run away before they can get away with anything at all.)

Still, the right system for you will depend on a variety of factors, including your budget, your travel style, and even your risk tolerance level. Below, we’ll break down what you need to know about the different types of RV security systems on the market, their pros and cons, how to install them, and more.

Types of RV Security Systems

There are two main types of RV security systems: alarm-based systems (which, as you might expect, sound an alarm if your RV is breached) and GPS tracking systems that use GPS technology to locate your RV in real time if it’s stolen.

In some cases, security system makers have melded these wo different categories together into hybrid or “smart” RV security systems, including both alarms and GPS as well as cameras. These types of systems are often tied to an app on your smartphone so you can view camera footage and control security features from anywhere with the tap of a few buttons.

Let’s take a closer look into each of these two main categories of RV security.

Alarms for RVs: Pros & Cons

Alarms for RVs can be rigged to trigger when a door or window is opened, as well as detecting suspicious movement inside your RV when armed. Some systems also include tilt or shock sensors that will trigger the alarm if someone attempts to tow the RV (which will shake or tilt it), and again, many integrated RV security alarms can alert you on your cell phone using an app as well as making loud noise in the direct vicinity of the vehicle.

These systems have both benefits and drawbacks to consider.

Pros of RV alarms:

• Work immediately to deter thieves in real time
• Real-time updates to your phone available
• Some may also automatically alert authorities

Cons of RV alarms:

• Only protect when triggered
• Can’t help locate your RV if it is stolen

GPS Trackers and Telematics

Next up, let’s consider GPS trackers and telematics (technology that can collect, record and transfer information such as location, speed and driver behavior in real time).

GPS trackers offer the unique benefit that, well, your RV’s location will be tracked. That means that even if someone does steal your RV, you’ll know where it winds up immediately. These trackers can usually be programmed to send you an alert if your RV leaves a pre-defined area, and battery-backed trackers can continue to transmit location information even if the RV battery is disconnected.

Pros of GPS trackers:

• Instant, constantly updated knowledge of where your RV is in space
• Remote monitoring
• Ability to track down a stolen RV

Cons of GPS trackers:

• No real-time deterrent of theft (like alarms)
• May require a subscription plan/monthly payment

Cost vs Benefit

Along with analyzing the various pros and cons listed above, for many campers, cost will be one of the most important factors to consider before committing to one type of RV security system or another.

Generally speaking, there are entry-level versions of both RV alarm systems and RV GPS trackers available affordably. You can get set up for just a few hundred dollars, or even less. (Of course, it’s also true that high-tech, cutting-edge systems in both camps can cost you far more, if you’re looking for upgrades.)

One major difference between these two types of security systems is ongoing cost. Most alarm systems are one-and-done: you pay for the system up front, install it, and you’re good to go. A high-tech GPS tracking system, on the other hand, generally requires a subscription service, which is paid monthly, to keep the tracking going. You can expect to pay between about $10 and $45 per month on that subscription.

Installation Tips

Any system you choose will have its own installation manual and instructions to follow. Depending on your level of know-how and confidence, you might choose to DIY it — or to hire a professional.

In either case, here are some of the most important tips to follow when it comes to installing an RV security system.

• Map things out before you drill or do anything permanent.
• Be sure to avoid areas that interfere with wiring, plumbing, or insulation.
• Place door or window alarm sensors high, near the latch, and flush for reliable contact.
• Place motion sensors in the corners of rooms and away from vents or heat sources to avoid false alarms.
• Mount shock/tilt sensors on a rigid frame or floor; don’t loosely attach them to panels.
• For GPS trackers, ensure they have constant power, ideally with a backup battery.
• Install GPS trackers in a hidden, yet signal-friendly location like under your dashboard or inside cabinetry.
• Avoid installing GPS trackers inside closed metal boxes or other areas that block cellular or GPS signals.
• Test everything out before you rely on it!
• Keep all manuals and contact information so you can troubleshoot and get in touch with customer service as needed.

Choosing the Right System for Your Travel Style

Along with price and the specific pros and cons, your travel style will also narrow the type of RV security system that’s right for you.

Full Timer vs Occasional Traveler

A full-time RVer has a lot more at stake than an occasional traveler when it comes to protecting their RV. (After all, their RV has another name: Home.) If you’re on the road full-time, you may want to invest in a costlier and more complicated RV security system than someone who’s a weekend warrior. On the other hand, if you only travel occasionally and leave your RV unattended for long periods of time, a quality RV security system may also be warranted.

High-Risk Areas vs Low-Risk Areas

If you’re mostly traveling in well-lit, developed campgrounds, you may need less security onboard than someone who regularly travels down dimly lit roads into rugged, off-grid terrain.

High Risk Tolerance vs. Low Risk Tolerance

Finally, some of it comes down to plain old personality. Are you someone who can tolerate a relatively high amount of risk, or are you somebody who prefers to play it safe? These questions will also determine what kind of RV security system you’ll want to have onboard.

RV Security Systems: Frequently Asked Questions

An RV security system can go a long way toward increasing your peace of mind, which in turn means increasing your enjoyment of the road. We hope this guide has helped you discover which type of system might work best for you.