Be smart and safe when traveling in your RV

Generally speaking, crime against RV travelers is not common. Commercial campgrounds and RV resorts are not frequent gathering places for criminals, and other RV travelers are often great people.

However, it is understandable to be concerned about crime when you’re traveling to new places and meeting new people. When visiting a new or unfamiliar place, you may not feel as comfortable and safe as you would at home.

Thankfully, there are a few simple steps you can take to help protect yourself from crime in your RV.

1. Lock your doors

This may seem like a given, but you’d be surprised how many people just don’t see the need to lock their RV doors.

You may think that the RV park you’re staying in is much too nice for theft. Or, maybe you are just stepping out of your camper to run to the restroom or stop by the campsite office.

Whatever the reason, don’t leave your RV’s doors unlocked, especially if you’re not inside. Many burglaries are simply crimes of convenience – if a thief notices that your door is unlocked, they might just take the opportunity to help themselves to your belongings.

If you’ve locked up, they’ll have to risk breaking in and causing a scene. In many cases, they probably won’t bother.

Locking your doors will help deter anyone who might be looking to take advantage of the relaxed camping atmosphere.

2. Take a second to close your blinds

Along with locking your doors, take a moment to close your blinds and shades before you leave. This prevents a passerby from peeping into your windows to case out your property for later theft.

This also helps keep your cabinetry and fabrics from fading in the sun – so no reason not to try it!

It takes just a little extra effort, but it’s worth it. Don’t let your camper be open and accessible to potential criminals.

3. Find a visible, well-lit site

You don’t have to accept the space you’ve been assigned if you don’t feel right about it. If you drive to your spot and discover that it’s unlit, or far off the beaten path, go back and ask for a new space. Campgrounds are usually very accommodating and should be able to find you a more suitable site.

The best sites are in the heart of the campground, with good lighting and easy access to other campers or staff.

Keeping yourself visible among your neighbors will help protect your RV from being burglarized because thieves are more likely to target vehicles that are away from prying eyes.

4. Limit valuables

Another way to protect your RV from crime is to limit the number of valuables you bring along with you. Sure, you’ll probably have things like your laptop, TV, or cell phones, but don’t bring along too much high-value stuff.

There’s really no reason to bring things like nice clothing or jewelry. Even if you feel uncomfortable leaving them behind at home, it’s probably more secure than your RV.

You can also invest in a small safe to store your valuable electronics in while you’re sleeping or away.

5. Put your equipment away

It’s common for people to leave their camping chairs and picnic items outside on their campsite, but we don’t recommend it. Bring everything inside or stow it securely in your outdoor compartments when you’re not using it.

6. Invest in a security system

Nowadays, there are inexpensive options for security systems that don’t require complicated installation. We love the Ring Video Doorbell. It runs on rechargeable batteries so you can use it anywhere.

When someone presses the exterior button (the device acts as a doorbell), it rings the app on your phone. Via the app, you can see a video of the person at the door – and it works whether you’re home or not.

The video is stored on the cloud, so you’ll always have access to it. It’s a great way to monitor your RV and make sure you know who is going in and out.

Travel safely wherever you go

These tips can help protect your RV from crime. Taking these extra steps can make a world of difference in protecting your property and valuables.

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