When it comes to RV security, every traveler has their own strategy for keeping their home-on-wheels safe. Whether you’re parked at a campground, boondocking in the wilderness, or leaving your rig in storage, theft and vandalism are real concerns. That’s why we asked our readers in a recent newsletter poll: “How do you secure your RV when parked?”
The responses revealed some fascinating trends in how RVers protect their rigs—and which methods are the most popular. If you missed this poll, don’t worry! We run surveys like this often, so make sure to vote in the next one to have your voice heard in the results. Now, let’s dive into the findings and see what fellow RV enthusiasts are doing to stay secure.
The Poll Results: How RVers Lock Down Their Rigs
Here’s how the votes broke down:
| Security Method | Percentage of Votes |
|---|---|
| Wheel locks | 18% |
| Hitch lock | 35% |
| Security cameras | 18% |
| Alarm system | 29% |
Hitch Locks: The Clear Winner
It turns out that hitch locks are the most popular security measure among RVers, with 35% of voters relying on them. This makes sense—after all, if a thief can’t hitch up to your rig, they can’t tow it away. Hitch locks are affordable, easy to install, and act as a strong visual deterrent. While they may not stop a determined criminal with heavy-duty tools, they’re a solid first line of defense.
Alarm Systems: High-Tech Protection
Coming in a close second at 29%, alarm systems are a favorite for RVers who want high-tech security. Modern RV alarms can include motion sensors, door/window alerts, and even smartphone notifications. Some systems even integrate with GPS tracking, so if your RV does get stolen, you can track its location in real time. The downside? They can be pricey and require power, which might be a concern for boondockers.
Wheel Locks & Security Cameras: Tied for Third
Both wheel locks and security cameras garnered 18% of the vote each. Wheel locks are a physical barrier that prevents thieves from rolling your RV away, while cameras offer surveillance—either live or recorded. Interestingly, these two methods serve very different purposes: one stops theft in progress, while the other helps identify criminals after the fact. Some RVers even use both for double protection!
Why Did Hitch Locks Beat the Competition?
So, why did hitch locks dominate the poll while high-tech options like alarms and cameras lagged slightly behind? We think it comes down to simplicity and cost. Hitch locks are cheap, easy to use, and require no setup—just lock and go. Meanwhile, alarm systems and cameras demand installation, power sources, and sometimes monthly fees. Wheel locks, while effective, can be bulky and inconvenient for frequent travelers.
At the end of the day, the best security strategy is layered protection. A hitch lock paired with a motion-sensor light or a visible camera might be enough to scare off would-be thieves. What’s your RV security setup? Let us know in the comments—and don’t forget to vote in our next poll!
