Summer break is officially here, and the temptation to hit the open roads in your recreational vehicle (RV) comes with it. While driving around Canada, you likely have your valuables on your person or carefully stowed away. However, once you park at a campground or RV resort, your RV can be an easy target for thieves. Whether you're a seasoned RVer or new to the lifestyle, keep these tips in mind so you can rest easy knowing your belongings are as safe as can be.
Leave as many valuables as possible at home
The safest way to protect your valuables is to leave them at home, although full-time RVers may not have this option. If you must carry important documents with you, scan them onto your computer and then upload them to your cloud storage or send them to yourself via email. Not only is this helpful for burglaries, but for fires too.
In case you lose your computer or phone, or they get stolen, write down the most important phone numbers and addresses you might need in an emergency and put it in a secure place. This should include the phone number and policy numbers of your insurance company.
Install a concealable safe
If you travel with cash, jewelry, important documents, etc., a floor and wall safe will provide better protection than your wallet or jewelry box. Floor and wall safes have the advantage of being located in concealed areas like a closet or cupboard in an RV and come in various sizes depending on the items you want to secure.
Install a padlock and an alarm system
Your local hardware store should sell padlocks to supplement your RV’s current lock and door and window alarms for an extra layer of security. Not to be confused with an all-inclusive home security system with cameras, doorbells, and motion sensors, an alarm system includes only motion/door sensors and a siren. An alarm can alert you to problems and scare off anyone trying to enter your RV illegally.
Get creative with storage
RVs are designed to maximize storage with clever cupboards tucked away in the oddest places. Instead of keeping your jewelry box in the bedroom, consider hiding it with the pots and pans, in the pantry, or even in the laundry chute. Thieves working campgrounds are looking for quick grab-and-go items, so avoiding the apparent spots will slow them down.
Trick intruders
If thieves break into your RV, they won’t have much time to go through all your stuff. One of the best ways to hide your valuables is in plain sight! Consider purchasing a combination book safe that looks like an actual book. It will blend seamlessly into your décor while providing a safe space to store your belongings. Another classic option is to put a toilet roll inside a mason jar, hide your valuables in the roll, and fill the jar with candy, pasta, or rice. A common thief will likely overlook these places, leaving your stash of cash behind.
Leave a light on and music playing
You're on vacation; obviously, you'll leave your RV parked for a day trip to an amusement park, shopping mall, beach, etc. Just like you'd do with your home while on vacation, make it look like someone stayed home. Leave a few lights on and maybe the radio. Like a house or apartment, empty RVs are easy targets for thieves.
Close the privacy blinds
Most RVs come equipped with dual roller shades with light filtering and blackout layers. It's recommended to keep the light filtering shade down, even when you're home, to prevent passersby from seeing your valuables. While watching the sunset from your picture window is nice, be aware that others may be watching you.
Get a hitch and/or tire boot lock
So, you've locked up all your valuables, but how do you stop someone from driving away with your entire trailer? Choose a ball lock to prevent someone from attaching your unhitched trailer to their vehicle, or opt for a pin lock to deter them from unhitching your trailer from your vehicle. Alternatively, you could use a tire boot lock that wraps around the tire and through the wheel, so it can't turn. For even the most determined thieves, these obstacles could cost them time and save your RV.
Get the right insurance for your RV
Before starting your first RV voyage this summer, ensure you have the right insurance coverage. You might be missing out on some vital coverage for your unit and valuables. Ensure you have a complete range, including your electronics, jewelry, and more. To review your current OTIP RV policy, call 1-833-494-0089. If you are shopping for a new policy or for any other leisure products, including trailers, motorcycles, and watercraft, call 1-833-615-9326 to get a quote and receive a $20 gift card of your choice!