RV Security 101

The RV is packed, and you're ready to enjoy camping in the great outdoors. Camping can be a fun and relaxing experience for the entire family, but does your RV provide the same protection and security as your home?

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Unfortunately, the answer is … probably not. This factor doesn’t mean you can’t add extra security features to your RV to provide the protection you want for your family.

While camping can help you escape from your daily routine, it can’t help you escape from potential thieves. The reality is that many RVs don’t come with advanced security features, and potential criminals know this. Fortunately, there are several products you can purchase and tips you can use to keep you and your family safe, whether staying at a campground or off the grid.

1. Upgrade Your RV Locks

Standard RV door locks are alright, but consider providing yourself with more protection by upgrading to high-security RV door locks. Many of these locks are keyless entry and require a code to open the door. This extra feature makes it more difficult to pick the lock.

2. Install RV Security Cameras

RV security cameras can help you see what is happening outside your camper without going outside. By reviewing the footage, you can determine if the sounds you hear outside are potential intruders or an animal looking for food. Best of all, you can view this camera footage from your mobile device. So, even if you're not in the camper, you can see what’s happening at your campsite.

3. Invest in an RV Security System

There are numerous RV security systems on the market today. Investing in one of these systems can provide comprehensive security. Shop around for an RV security system that meets your specific needs, works well with the make and model of your RV and fits your budget.

4. Add More Outdoor Lighting

Lack of outdoor lighting can be a problem when camping in an RV. You can add awning lights, but these are typically just for decoration and to create the right ambiance, not for checking what’s making that noise in the middle of the night. Consider adding more outdoor lighting, such as lights with motion sensors.

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5. Bring Your Own Wi-Fi

Many campgrounds offer free Wi-Fi, but these services are not always secure. Protect your personal data by using a portable hotspot or satellite internet that only you and your family can access.

6. Get an RV Safe

Storing your valuables, such as cash, credit cards and jewelry, when heading out for a hike can be difficult in an RV, but it's not impossible. Get an RV safe and have it securely installed in a discreet location in your RV. This will give you a place to store these valuables when you’re out.

7. Purchase a Hitch Lock

The last thing you want on a camping trip is to return after a long hike and find your RV missing. Yes, this really does happen. You can avoid this problem by purchasing and installing a hitch lock. This type of lock can prevent thieves from accessing your hitch.

8. Use a Wheel Lock

If you have a motorhome rather than a trailer or prefer not to use a hitch lock, a wheel lock is another alternative. This lock is like the "boot" cities often put on cars for failure to pay parking tickets. The difference is that you have the key to remove this wheel lock, but potential thieves don’t.

9. Buy Additional Locks

Thieves aren’t only looking to steal your RV. There are other potential valuables they’re after, such as your batteries and propane tanks. There are locks on the market to secure these specific items. Consider using them the next time you go camping.

10. Bring Your Dog

Dogs may be considered a man’s best friend, but they are also great protectors. Just seeing or hearing a barking dog in and around your RV may be enough to scare some unwanted intruders away.

Don’t risk taking your next camping trip without the extra security you need. Instead, consider investing in one or more of these RV security features and give yourself peace of mind.