While rolling across the open roads of Canada, you likely have your valuables on your person or carefully stowed in the luggage. But once you are parked at the RV resort near the Campbell River or on the shores of Prince Edward Island, open doors and a casual lifestyle take over. Make sure that you protect your most valuable possessions with some simple and surprisingly affordable upgrades to your motor home or trailer.
Change all the Locks on Your RV
Did you know that most travel trailers, fifth wheels, and even Class-A motor homes use the same key for their locks? That same key probably works on your basement storage, too. So, just about anybody can walk up and unlock your doors without looking suspicious. A new set of locks will run you about $100 and deter many thieves who are targeting RV parks and campgrounds.
Install a Floor Safe in a Closet or the Basement
If you are travelling with cash, nice jewelry, your passport, or collector watches, a floor safe with a combination will provide better protection compared to a jewelry box or wallet. Floor safes can be small enough to hold a roll of money and a jewelry box or large enough to hold files, jewelry, and other collectibles. Have it bolted to the floor or walls and hide it in a closet.
Add a Door Alarm
Your local electronics store sells stand-alone home security systems. Select one that does not require a monitoring service. Add a contact to the door of the trailer. When the bad guy tries to break in, a screech alarm will alert the neighbours and campground crew to trouble. The burglar will simply move on.
Use Your Hidden Storage
RVs are designed to maximize storage options with clever cupboards tucked away in the oddest places. Instead of putting your jewelry box in the bedroom closet, think about stowing it under the pots and pans, in with the canned food, or even in your in-floor laundry chute. Thieves that are working a campground are looking for quick grab-and-go targets. Slow them down and protect your valuables.
Fake Out Intruders
How often have you laughed at those fun look-alike safes for sale on TV? The locking box looks like a book, a can of soup, or a puzzle box. It may have a simple combination or key lock. A casual burglar will overlook the costumed box and leave your stash of cash and passport behind.
Leave a Light On and Music Playing
You are on vacation! Of course, you will be leaving your RV parked at the campground for an entire day while you are at the amusement park, shopping mall, or sightseeing destination. Just like at home, before you take off, make it look like somebody stayed home to watch TV. Leave on a couple of lights and maybe a radio.
Close the Privacy Shades
Most RVs come equipped with dual function shades with a layer that filters light and another for complete blackout. Even leaving down the light filtering shade at all times prevents those strolling by from seeing valuables that may be out while you are home. It may be nice to watch the sunset from your dining area picture window, but beware that others may be watching you.
A Hitch Lock is an Ultimate Deterrent
So, you locked down all of your valuables, but how do you stop somebody from hooking up and driving off with the entire trailer? A hitch lock covers the kingpin on a fifth wheel or the ball coupler on your bumper hitch. You use your own combination or padlock. For even a determined thief, it is one more obstacle that costs them time and saves your entire campsite.
Get Proper RV Insurance
If you purchased insurance for your RV in haste while buying the trailer or motorhome, you may have overlooked and possibly be missing out on some vital coverages for your unit and the valuables in it. Make sure you have complete and proper RV insurance. Not insured with an RV policy from us at Wayfarer Insurance Group? Don’t hesitate to contact us to have one of our licensed RV insurance representatives ensure that your RV and the personal possessions in it are properly covered.
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