You’re relaxed and on vacation, surrounded by beautiful scenery. What could possibly go wrong?
Predictably, you’ll be away from your RV during the day, enjoying the sights that the best RV destinations have to offer. Unfortunately, RVs aren’t hard to break into. Park Rangers are stretched thin over 100s (in some cases 1000s) of miles. And since you’re on vacation, you’re more likely to have cash and other valuables stashed away in your RV.
Yep, that’s a criminal’s dream.
While the crime rate in national parks and campgrounds is relatively low, most would agree that out-of-the-way/generally secluded locales present prime opportunities for criminals.
Finding an RV security system that fits your needs is a common sense measure to take. That way, you can enjoy your time away (without worries of break-ins creeping in).
Here we’ll go over some of the most effective security systems depending on your class of RV.
Key Takeaways
- The best way to avoid being robbed is to not be an attractive target. Keep your vehicle locked and your valuables out of sight.
- RVs are inherently valuable. To guard against theft, store it under a cover and in a safe area.
Why Are You Installing a Security System in Your RV?
Before you can choose a security system, you should know why you want one. Are you looking to protect your property while it’s in storage? Or is the primary goal to protect your family while you’re traveling?
If you want to protect your RV while it’s in storage, then it makes sense to purchase a comprehensive security system that can alert you – and the authorities – if it detects a break-in.
If you’re looking to protect your RV while you’re traveling, it’s more important to have visible security measures to deter theft.
Once you understand your priorities, you can determine what you actually need.
What You Need in an Effective RV Security System
When shopping for an RV security system, you could go all out and purchase a system, complete with motion-sensing cameras, night vision, and infrared live feeds that wirelessly connect to your phone. Sure, you could splurge on the start-of-the-art tech and receive SMS alerts anytime the camera senses a perilous intruder within 50 feet. Yes, it’s possible to enlist the help of turrets, controlled by a home-based AI named Jarvis, that will defend your RV when attacked. But is this all necessary?
Instead, you can look for a system that doesn’t cost more than your RV is worth. All you’ll need are these basic features, including:
- WiFi capability
- Customizable motion alerts
- Door/window sensors
- Alarms
- GPS tracking
- Video surveillance
With these features in place, you can keep an eye on your RV security system right from your mobile device.
But there’s a caveat with these features. You need an internet connection that has the bandwidth for multiple operating devices. There are options that use 4G LTE to connect to your cell phone as well. But if you’re traveling somewhere with no cell coverage and no wifi, then your security system won’t do you much good.
Top Picks for RV Security Systems
With the myriad of security systems available in the market, choosing the right one for your RV can be overwhelming. But don’t worry. We’ve sorted them into categories to help you choose.
- Comprehensive overall options
- Budget-friendly choices
- Solar-powered systems
Each category caters to different needs and budgets. Whether you’re looking for a system with advanced features or one that fits your craving for simplicity, there’s something for everyone.
The Comprehensive Overall Best RV Security System
When it comes to the top overall picks for the best RV security systems, the Canary Security System and the SimpliSafe security system come highly recommended.
The Canary All-in-One Indoor Security System
The Canary Indoor/Outdoor Camera offers
- HD camera with night vision
- 10x zoom
- Alerts for motion and air quality on your device
- Real-time notifications
- Two-way communication and a live feed
The set up is simple. It functions through an app on your phone. You download the app on your phone. Connect your Canary Camera to wifi and you’re ready to watch live.
There are also several customizable settings, including an at-home mode and a private mode.
The cost of the Canary ranges from $14.99-$19.99/month.
Photo courtesy of Canary
The SimpliSafe Security System
The SimpliSafe security system is the standard for modern security. You get…
- 24/7 monitoring by SimpliSafe Agents
- Alarm verification for priority dispatch
- Two-way communication to deter burglars
- Text alerts
- Arm/disarm via the app
But SimpliSafe goes beyond security by monitoring your home to prevent damage from:
- Freezing temperatures
- Water leaks
- Bursting pipes
- Carbon monoxide
- Fires
SimpliSafe is easy to install yourself, or you could have it installed by their professionals, and it costs $19.99/month.
Photo courtesy of Best Buy
The Best Budget-Friendly Option: The Wsdcam Door and Window Alarms
You’re the simple sort. You don’t want anything fancy. You’re not interested in alarms that rely on a wifi connection (or cameras that watch your every move). You just want an alarm to wake you up if someone is tampering with your RV.
If this is true, the Wsdcam Door Alarm is for you. It functions as an efficient sensor/entry alarm that doesn’t cost a fortune. With a loud alarm that rings out at a whopping 105 decibels, any disturbances are sure to be heard.
It’s super easy to install – just peel and stick it on, no need for drilling or professional help. Plus, it only costs $11.99 on Amazon.
Photo courtesy of wsdcam.com
Best Solar-Powered RV Security Systems
If you need to watch your power usage, then a solar panel-powered security camera is a good option for you.
Reolink makes a solar panel that is compatible with all of their battery-powered cameras, like the Reolink Argus 2 and the Reolink Go PT Plus.
The Reolink cameras feature:
- HD quality
- Two-way audio
- And it detects if there’s a person at your door.
Photo courtesy of Amazon
Keeping an Eye Out: The Role of Security Cameras in RV Safety
Security Cameras are the guardian angels of RV security. They’re your first line of defense against potential thieves, acting as both a deterrent and a means of gathering evidence.
When placing your cameras, you want to make sure that they cover the entrances and your exterior hatches. Pair them with entry sensors, and you’ve got yourself a full-fledged alarm system. The cameras work as a deterrent, and the sensors act as your alarms, alerting you when they are opened.
The Best Defense: Proactive Measures for RV Security
Apart from installing security systems and opting for a professional setup, you can adopt several proactive measures to enhance your RV’s safety. Here are some simple habits to follow:
- Lock up and close windows and blinds when you’re not around
- Avoid showing off valuables
- Stay alert and aware of your surroundings
- Set up the campsite with security in mind
These measures can go a long way in keeping you safe.
In addition, staying informed about the local crime scene can help you take necessary precautions. Tools like the FBI Crime Data Explorer, AreaVibes, or Crime and Place offer crime stats for specific areas, helping you stay aware of potential risks and stay safe.
Summary
Remember, a security system is a small RV upgrade that protects your investment, but it’s just the beginning. Other things to consider are what type of insurance your RV needs and if you should purchase a separate RV warranty.
Finally, think about where you plan to store your RV when you’re not using it. Of course, you want to protect it from the elements, so you’ll store it undercover. But you also want to think about the area in which it’s stored. Does it have a high crime rate? Does your storage facility have its own security measures in place?
Here’s where Neighbor can help.
Neighbor is a peer-to-peer storage marketplace where you can find safe, affordable storage for your RV that’s also close to home.
