Author: Stephanie A. Mayberry
Campgrounds aren’t really known for attracting a criminal element. You do encounter some degree of risk while on the road but RVing is actually pretty safe as long as you take some precautions. Here are some tips for keeping your family and property safe – oh, and your RV too!
At the Campground
Some campgrounds do not allow firearms so if you own one you should check before get there.
Related Read: Don't Bring Your Guns to Town (Unless You Can Prove They Are Yours)
If you feel you need some “back up” motion detecting lights are pretty effective – so is a dog that likes to travel. A Louisville Slugger is a favorite with many on the road and might be an option for you in case you get in a bind.
Related Read: Staying Safe while RVing
Stay vigilant, not in the super paranoid way, but pay attention to your surroundings and what is happening around your RV.
Lock your doors. Make it a habit to lock your doors when you leave. You may even opt to lock your doors when you are at home or when you’re sleeping.
Close the blinds or shades when you leave. You may even want to close them in the evening when all of your activities inside your illuminated RV can be easily seen by your neighbors.
Bring small items inside or lock them up, especially when you leave.
Get to know your neighbors. People are more inclined to look after each other (and each other’s stuff) when they know them.
Consider an RV security system like RV Guardian, RV Security System, or Tattletale RV Alarm.
On the Road
Traveling from one camping adventure to the next means spending a fair amount of time on the road. And yes, things can happen then as well.
Try to avoid the shady parts of town. Every city has them and if you are in doubt, ask the campground manager, friendly locals, or talk to a police officer.
Try to not look like a tourist. It automatically puts a target on your back.
Avoid flashing valuables and cash around.
Stay alert and be aware of your surroundings.
Make sure you have a good cell phone for travel and keep it charged in case you break down.
Roadside assistance is essential if you spend any amount of time on the road. Then again, many plans have free lockout assistance so it is pretty handy when you are in the campground as well.
Keep your RV or towing vehicle in top working order with regular maintenance.
Don’t let yourself get too low on fuel.
Keep your propane tanks full.
If you encounter drivers with road rage don’t engage them. Let them pass, don’t respond, and try to get away from them then notify the police.
Boondocking
You may find yourself boondocking when you travel from one campground to the next which means you need to be a little more careful.
Be careful where you park. If you are catching a few zzz’s look for something a little busier like a truck stop or a parking lot.
In the primitive camping part of a campground take normal safety precautions.
Stay somewhat close to civilization in case there is a problem, help is not too far away.
Stay vigilant and keep an eye on your surroundings (see a theme here?).
At Home
If you are off RVing that often means that your home is left all alone – and vulnerable. The tried and true home protection tips are still relevant today.
Related Read: Camping Safe and Sound
Get a house sitter.
Ask a neighbor to keep an eye on your home while you are gone and ask them to pick up your newspaper, collect your mail, and get any packages that may come while you are away.
Put your lights on a timer so they come on at certain times.
Park your car in the driveway as opposed to the garage; it gives the appearance of someone being home.
Lock all doors and windows.
Finally, good RV insurance that covers your rig and belongings is absolutely necessary. That way if anything does happen you are covered.
Related Read: RV INSURANCE 101
What are your RV security tips?