7 RV Security Systems and Devices to Protect Your Rig
When exploring in your RV, it’s easy to forget about life’s inconveniences. Whether it’s the daily grind, the hustle and bustle of city life, or other aspects of life, RVing allows us to escape the day-to-day while out in nature. However, this carefree attitude could sometimes cause RVers to forget crucial security measures. Although the RV community is very tight-knit, forgoing basic security measures can open the door (quite literally) to potential theft or vandalism. Although it’s the last thing you want to consider when exploring, investing in some RV security systems and devices can give you greater peace of mind when adventuring. Here are a few RV security devices we recommend for all RVers.
1) RV Wheel Clamps
Starting our list of the best RV security devices to have with you are wheel locks. RV wheel locks are like the type of boots police departments utilize, but they are much smaller and easier to carry around. Although they are a bit smaller than official wheel clamps, these are still among the best security devices for your RV as they immobilize your rig and are a quick visual deterrent for potential thieves.
Wheel clamps traditionally come in bright yellow, which makes it evident to anyone that your RV is adequately secured. Even if someone tries to take your RV with a wheel clamp on, they won’t go very far, as the clamps will prevent movement. You will have to get down to secure the clamp in place properly, but if you’re serious about RV theft protection, these are a great tool to have.
Highly rated products:
- Mophorn Heavy-Duty Trailer Wheel Clamps – Heavy-duty clamps with added lug nut covers to prevent tire removal.
- Tevalphee Universal Wheel Lock – Heavy-duty wheel clamps with an easy-to-carry design.
2) Hitch Locks
If you pull a trailer and leave it behind as you explore your destination in your RV or vehicle, you’ll want to have a sturdy hitch lock. Hitch locks prevent potential thieves from towing your trailer when it is not in use or attached to your rig. Additionally, some models can lock to your trailer even when connected, ensuring no one can remove your trailer and drive off.
Like wheel clamps, hitch locks are excellent RV security devices that are visible deterrents. Most thieves prefer easy targets, so having a visible deterrent can quickly cause a potential thief to forgo attempting to tamper with your RV.
Highly rated products:
- Master Lock Universal 389-DAT – One of the highest-rated trailer hitch locks on the market.
- Reese Towpower Heavy Duty Lock – A heavy-duty hitch lock that is durable and acts as a strong visual deterrent.
- Rhino Trailer Hitch Lock – A durable hitch locking pin that can be used while the trailer is attached to your vehicle or RV.
3)Steering Wheel Locks
If you’re looking for a simple RV security device, it’s hard to forget about a tried-and-true classic: a durable steering wheel lock.
Meant to prevent your rig’s steering wheel from moving, a good steering wheel lock can easily deter a would-be thief from attempting to steal your RV. Sure, these are simple to use, but they can offer plenty of security and ease of mind with minimal investment. Although they are not indestructible, they would require power tools and time to remove the lock from your steering wheel, which brings a lot of unwanted attention and noise for a burglar.
Highly rated products:
- The Club 1000 Steering Wheel Lock – The classic red steering wheel lock that acts as a visual deterrent.
- Cartman Steering Wheel Lock – Heavy-duty steel steering wheel lock.
4) GPS Tracking Systems
Although a GPS system will not prevent your RV from being stolen or broken into, it can help you locate your rig afterward. If you’re out in a new destination and an unfortunate event occurs, having a GPS will help you assist law enforcement with locating your rig in an unknown location. For additional ease of mind, you can purchase a GPS that is physically installed and provides live updates regarding your rig’s location and diagnostics.
Highly rated products:
- LandAirSea GPS Tracker – Compact GPS tracker with a long battery life. Subscription required.
- Apple Air Tag – Easy to store GPS that does not require any special equipment or subscriptions.
- Optimus Hard Wire GPS Tracker – Hard-wired GPS with live updates. Low subscription cost.
5) Upgraded Door Locks (Keyless, deadbolts
Another way to upgrade your rig to make it much more secure is by installing aftermarket door locks that provide greater protection. By installing a robust door lock, you add a visual deterrent that shows you’ve taken more significant measures to protect your RV. Plus, many aftermarket locks are keyless or have Bluetooth capabilities, making it easier to enter your RV even if you misplace your keys. Installing a new door lock will require some basic tools, so be sure to read the lock’s manual before attempting the installation to ensure you have everything needed.
Highly rated products:
- RV Lock Keyless Entry Keypad – Door lock that uses a numerical code for keyless entry.
- RV Entry Door Lock – Easy to install durable door lock with deadbolt.
6) Security Cameras
Installing security cameras is one of the best ways to have greater peace of mind when exploring. Most security cameras today allow you to get a live feed wherever you are with a network connection. And if you suspect that your RV was tampered with while you were away, the recording features will allow you to review the footage at any time. Having security footage of the robbery will help you gather any evidence law enforcement can use after an RV theft.
Most RV security cameras also have motion detection, which sends you alerts whenever there is motion around your RV. This will help you quickly assess the situation and decide whether you must return to protect your rig.
When purchasing a security camera, choose one that matches your camping habits. For example, if you routinely boondock, you may not want to buy a camera that requires Wi-Fi. Instead, you can opt for a camera that relies on 4G-LTE or a phone signal.
Highly rated products:
- Reolink Go PT Plus – A solar-powered security camera that does not require Wi-Fi.
- Ring Doorbell Camera – Doorbell camera with added features like two-way talk and motion alerts.
- GMK Weatherproof Wireless Camera – Wireless camera that is weatherproof and has night vision.
7) Window and Door Alarms
Regardless of how many visual deterrents you install, you can’t 100% protect your RV from a determined thief. As a final measure, installing audible window and door alarms can signal to thieves that your RV has a security system and that you are aware of what they are doing. If a potential thief does enter your RV while you are away, the audible alarm can easily cause them to think twice, as it brings a lot of unwanted attention to their actions. For added security, we recommend installing both window and door alarms that will alert you while you are away that your RV has been tampered with.
Highly rated products:
- GE Security Window and Door Alarms – pack of 4 easy-to-install window and door alarms.
- Noopel Door and Window Alarms – Small alarms with a loud sound.
Protect Your RV On and Off the Road
One of the easiest ways to protect your RV from whatever life throws at you is by carrying proper RV insurance. Unlike a traditional auto policy, RV insurance has multiple coverage options that will suit your needs regardless of how you choose to travel. At QRV Insurance, our specialists know the exact questions to ask to customize your policy to best match your lifestyle. Give us a call at (866) 501-7335 today to speak with one of our specialists.
The information in this article is obtained from various sources and is offered for educational purposes. Furthermore, it should not replace manuals or instructions provided by the manufacturer or the advice of a qualified professional. No warranty or appropriateness for a specific purpose is expressed or implied.