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et_cetera's avatar
et_cetera
Explorer
Aug 14, 2021

Enhancing RV security

First of all, I am not retired and not even close to retirement age, I both work and full-time and thus leave my RV unattended for 8-10 hours at a time. This makes it a considerably easier target than a RV that is occupied by someone and the schedule is not predictable.

Thus security is the most serious concern. Not that I have anything really valuable, nothing beyond a computer and similar hardware but I would hate to lose the few things I have.

I am in the process of buying something and when the deal is finalized, when I finally take possession, I am going to take a number of steps to harden the security profile. First thing that comes to mind, beyond an alarm, is a motion camera, IP-based. Then a kill switch so the whole thing does not get stolen. There has to be a lot more one can do to harden the target, multiple layers of security. Investing several thousand in it seems like a smart idea.

One of these GPS trackers is not out of the question, in case it does get stolen.

It's the age we live in, crime seems to go up everywhere, economic times are uncertain.
  • All security cameras do is make a nice video of someone taking your stuff.
  • Tvov's avatar
    Tvov
    Explorer II
    Where are you camping / parking that you have to worry about high security levels? Can you stay somewhere else?

    I would think that a relatively busy campground would be pretty safe, especially if you get to know the other full timers / seasonals and they can keep an eye on your rig.

    We are weekenders, but we've never had an issue at any campground in almost 20 years.

    On the other hand, if you are staying at a construction site or commercial parking lot that is empty at night, I can see the security concerns.
  • Gdetrailer wrote:
    Its a "RV" with paper thin walls doors and windows, there is no such thing as "security".

    You can spend many thousands on cameras, GPS tracking, alarms but all that does is deter causal petty thieves.. Professional thieves if they want it, it will be gone without a trace in a matter of a few minutes They might even be kind enough to leave your security devices behind.

    Keep your insurance policy paid up to date and your things can be replaced.

    Better to seek less seedy areas to stay at.

    Most campers work on the Honor and good neighbor system in campgrounds.
    All true. A $100 lock on a $2 door isn't going to do much good. How do you "harden" a tin can?
  • Catalytic converters seem to be a hot commodity these days, you may want to secure it first. There are also products to change the locks on external compartments because the keys are so common, and some people secure their generator if that compartment is not locked. As for the interior, the best security is to park it around other people and leave the shades up so everyone can see inside when you're not there. From there you could add the various security items you mentioned, and I think your approach is correct if your unit is worth it. Half a dozen small cameras should easily cover the interior and exterior, and an app will give you live notifications as well as full-time recording. This will be easy if you're plugged into shore power and have constant Wi-Fi, but could likely be possible otherwise as well. Let us know what options you go with so that we can also benefit from your research. Thanks for the topic.
  • Its a "RV" with paper thin walls doors and windows, there is no such thing as "security".

    You can spend many thousands on cameras, GPS tracking, alarms but all that does is deter causal petty thieves.. Professional thieves if they want it, it will be gone without a trace in a matter of a few minutes They might even be kind enough to leave your security devices behind.

    Keep your insurance policy paid up to date and your things can be replaced.

    Better to seek less seedy areas to stay at.

    Most campers work on the Honor and good neighbor system in campgrounds.
  • Bobbo wrote:
    All of my friends think my German Shepherd Dog is pretty effective.

    When they knock on the door, they stand to the side. Just in case.


    You can’t leave a dog unattended in an RV for 10 hours!
  • All of my friends think my German Shepherd Dog is pretty effective.

    When they knock on the door, they stand to the side. Just in case.
  • You bring up some very good points.
    I’m sure your methods or additions will be very useful to many trying to increase security.

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