How to Keep Your RV Safe From Theft

Why you can trust SafeWise
products considered
250+
research hours in 25+ in-home tests
10k+
years of combined experience
176+
homes and people protected
10M+

For over 11 years, SafeWise experts have conducted independent research and testing to create unbiased, human reviews. Learn how we test and review.

Camping trailers and RVs can be easy targets for car thieves, as they can just drive away with not only with the valuables inside, but your trailer as well. RV crime is increasing and it’s becoming a serious concern for those who travel with their campers and trailers every year.

If you are a seasoned RV traveler or are new to the camping lifestyle, keep these tips in mind to keep your camper safe from would-be burglars.

Consider how you park your trailer

When you arrive to the RV lot or campsite, or even if the camper is in your driveway, it’s important to consider how you will park your trailer. Most people will reverse their camper into a parking spot. Positioning the camper this way makes it easier to drive off when you’re ready to go home, but it also makes it easier for someone to hitch up your trailer (or jump in your car to take it) and be gone while you’re away hiking or enjoying the area.

Instead, turn your camper around and put the hitch away from the standard access. This will deter  potential thieves because they would have to physically turn the camper in order to steal it, which takes more time. You’ll need a jockey wheel or tongue jack to park this way.

Secure your trailer in every way

Best RV Lock
RVLock V4 Keyless Entry Handle w/Integrated Keypad & Fob
V4 Keyless Entry Handle
$239.99
pro Integrated keypad and fob
pro Replaces standard handles
pro 1-year warranty

*Amazon.com price as of post date. Read full disclaimer.

Locking your trailer goes beyond just locking the doors and windows, although these are important measures to take. In this case, consider a lock that goes around the kingpin. There are a variety of options available, with the two most popular locks being a pad lock and a cylinder lock. Both go over the kingpin.

The cylinder lock, however, has a locking mechanism that keeps it in place. Some cylinder locks even come with a special key that can’t be duplicated. You can also replace the handle with a keyless handle lock with a keypad and keyfob for increased security and convenience.

You may also want to consider getting a boot, which covers the wheel and prevents it from turning with an extension. The boot cover also prevents lugs from being stolen from the wheel. Thieves may try to change tires on the camper, even with a boot cover, so be sure to choose one that covers the lugs so tires can’t be changed.

Eliminate temptations

The idea of “out of sight, out of mind” applies when you’re home as well as when you’re out camping. Eliminate any temptations around your camping spot by keeping valuables out of sight, locking doors and windows, and cleaning up your camping area. You may also want to:

Pull the Shades

You don’t want your hiking gear or your cooking equipment to be taken simply because someone can see the items through the window.

Camp Around Other People

There’s safety in numbers. Camping around other people means there’s someone to look out for your space. Plus, thieves usually avoid populated areas.

Best safe
SentrySafe 1200 home safe
SentrySafe
$19.88
pro Portable
pro Fire resistant
pro Affordable

*Amazon.com price as of post date. Read full disclaimer.

Get a Safe

If you are traveling with any valuables, consider bringing along a small home safe to keep your cash, credit cards, or jewelry safe.

Find the right security system

It’s wise to invest in the right security system for your camper. You can choose from many options, such as solar-powered cameras, a deadbolt, or motion-detecting lights. In most cases, securing your RV is a small price to pay for the peace of mind you receive.

Many RV owners enjoy the security that comes with motion detector lights. If you are camping in the middle of nowhere, or even when your RV is parked in your own driveway, it can get pretty dark at night. A motion detector light can help you feel safer as you enjoy your surroundings. A motion detector light will detect objects like cars, people, or animals. When motion is detected, the light turns on and stays on for a preset time, usually about 20 seconds. The light shuts off when the motion is no longer detected.

Best solar-powered camera
Reolink Argus 3 Pro
$114.99
pro Easy to install
pro Easy-to-use app
pro Affordable

*Amazon.com price as of post date. Read full disclaimer.

Best solar-powered motion sensor light
maxsa-innovations-dual-head-security-spotlight
MAXSA
$39.95
pro 160 lumens
pro Detects motion up to 40 feet away
pro Solar-powered

*Amazon.com price as of post date. Read full disclaimer.

Many security systems come with motion detectors as part of the package. You can look for options with the lights built in to your RV or you can install lights on your own. If you choose to install your own motion sensor lights, be sure to place lights 6 to 10 feet above the ground and point them toward the anywhere there is dark space. Consider placing lights behind the camper, at the door, and on any corners.

Implement these tips to help keep your RV and what’s inside of it safe, whether it’s parked at home or out on an adventure.

Related articles on SafeWise

Disclaimers

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. Safewise.com utilizes paid Amazon links.

Certain content that appears on this site comes from Amazon. This content is provided “as is” and is subject to change or removal at any time.


Compare the top car safety products

Product
Best for
Price
Specs
Stand-out feature
Learn more
Read review
Best vehicle trackerOBD port plug-inMaintenance reminders
Best car alarm3,000 ft rangeRemote start
Diesel engine safe
Best dash cam4K Full HD

170° front and rear

Tolerates -20°F to 176°F
Best navigation system6.95 in. touchscreenVoice control
Steering wheel lockHardened steel

3 different sizes

Tamperproof lock
Best portable car jackLifts up to 15 in. and 3,000 lbs.Lightweight

Affordable

Amazon.com price as of post date. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change. Read full disclaimer.

*Amazon.com price as of post date. Read full disclaimer.

Katherine Torres
Written by
Katherine has had several years of experience developing and executing multichannel marketing campaigns, but actually started her career path in journalism. Though she switched gears, she continues to be driven by the need to deliver information that can be helpful for individuals. As an owner of two rescue dogs, she is most interested in technology and products that allow her to keep a close eye on her pets when she’s away.

Recent Articles

Mother looking at security system app with family
The Best Home Security System Apps
Home security apps help you protect your home when you’re not there by letting you...
Man and woman couple wife husband set up surveillance security camera
Best Apartment Security Systems of 2024
In 2024, we tested the best apartment security systems and cameras. They offer security solutions...
woman adjusting thermostat in bright home
The Best Home Security Systems and Alarm Companies of 2024
After thousands of hours of tests and research, we picked Vivint and SimpliSafe as the...
small yellow single family home
Abode vs Ring: Which security system is better?
Abode reigns over Ring in this DIY system face-off, but it’s not a clean sweep....