As an RV owner, you know that an RV is more than a vehicle. It is a lifestyle. A way to get away and live differently. An opportunity to explore parts of the state and even country that you’ve never seen before. An RV gives you a type of freedom that day to day life generally doesn’t offer. When you are away, your RV is your home from home, and just like your home, you want to keep your RV and its contents safe.
The good news is that there are a lot of security systems available that are suitable for RVs, trailers, vans, and campers. Choosing the best RV security system for your needs is the challenge. In this article, we will walk you through the different types of RV security systems and the features that they have. We will look at some of the key points for you to consider when purchasing the best security system for your RV and some of the popular RV security systems on offer.
Best Integrated RV Security System
The five-piece Ring Alarm kit is an integrated alarm system that is easy to set up. The kit comes with one motion sensor and one contact sensor and all the bits you need to install it. You also get a keypad, base station, and range extender. The base station is the central hub of an integrated alarm section and keeps all the parts connected. In an RV or trailer, you’re unlikely to need a range extender. These are more useful for boosting the wifi signal to alarm parts in multi-level homes.
Wifi is required to setup the system but the alarm will continue to work even if you don’t have wifi. If you have wifi then you will be able to arm and disarm the alarm from the app as well as to receive notifications from your system while you’re away.
The simplicity of this kit and ease of installation make it the kind of system that will offer peace of mind for the RV owner and a loud deterrent for anyone breaking in. It is possible to supplement the kit with additional Ring products such as cameras and more sensors.
Cost
Being an integrated security system, Ring is one of the more expensive options. There are many different price points depending on how many entry points you need to cover and if you buy a camera or video doorbell.
Quality / Protection Offered
Well respected brand. Professional monitoring may not be available for RVs.
Power Source
The base station connects to the mains and comes with an AC adapter. The contact sensors and motion detectors take batteries.
Does it need Wifi?
While wifi is required for setup and for interactions with the app, the alarm system runs independently of wifi once setup.
Installation
Ring installation is extremely simple.
Remote Monitoring
Yes, remote monitoring is available through the app but only if your RV is connected to wifi. Professional monitoring is technically available but, without a permanent address, it introduces some complications.
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For a similar price to the 5 piece Ring system above, you can get an 8 piece kit from Simplisafe. This kit comes with 4 entry sensors, 1 motion sensor, and a panic button. As with the Ring kit you get a keypad and base station as standard. This is another wireless system (with the exception of the base station that requires plugging into a socket) making installation as simple as sticking the sensors to the required windows and doors.
Not content with relying on a wifi signal, the Simplisafe base station has a back up in the form of a built-in cellular connection.
Cost
$$$
Quality / Protection Offered
This system has rave reviews and comes with a 3-year warranty.
Power Source Batteries for the sensors and keypad. Mains for the base station.
Does it need Wifi?
Yes but has a cellular backup option.
Installation
Easy.
Remote Monitoring
Yes. Self-monitoring via the app requires an additional monthly fee.
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Another 5 piece security system but this time with a camera. Albeit an indoor camera. With a wifi connection, you can see what is happening inside your RV any time you like. This kit comes with two detect sensors (aka contact sensors), a guard pad, and at least one key fob.
The guard pad is about the size of a mug and has a built-in motion sensor that can pick up movement from up to 10 feet away. The camera connects to the Nest app on your cellphone letting you check the live stream from your camera and be reassured that all is well whilst you’re away from your RV. You can also arm and disarm the alarm via your app and receive notifications from the guard pad.
Cost
$$$+
Quality / Protection Offered
Nest recently partnered up with Google home. Google prides itself on quality so I can see this being a draw for some people.
Power Source
Mains for the camera and the guard pad. Batteries for the sensors.
Does it need Wifi?
Yes.
Installation
Easy.
Remote Monitoring
Yes. Monitor your camera feed via the Nest app.
Best Budget Integrated Security for RV
A good option for the budget conscious. This self install smart security kit ticks a lot of boxes. The kit comes with a base station, a motion detector, 5 contact sensors, and 2 remote controls. The remote controls let you arm and disarm the alarm without entering a code, handy if you’re prone to forgetting the code like I am.
Though the base station plugs into the mains it does have an 8-hour back-up battery for when the power fails. Something that could be of benefit for anyone off the grid. All the sensors are battery operated and easy to install.
The motion sensor in this kit can detect movement up to 26 feet away and within a 120-degree field of vision. This is a lot more than some systems and better suited to a long RV.
When the door or window sensors are activated and the alarm is set off you can be reassured that your neighbors will hear the 120dB alarm sound. That’s the equivalent of a loud rock concert (but less fun). The alarm also flashes which should be enough to convince any intruders that breaking into your RV is a bad idea.
Cost
$$
Quality / Protection Offered
Good. The alerts to your phone enable self-monitoring without despite the lack of a camera.
Power Source
Mains and battery backup.
Does it need Wifi?
For the push notifications to work correctly from the App it needs wifi.
Installation
Easy.
Remote Monitoring
Yes. You will get push notifications to your cellphone.
Best RV Security Camera
There are a lot of positives with the Heimvision HMD2 security camera.
First up, it incredibly easy to install. You have the option of using a screw-in mount or a 3M sticky pad. Since you are connecting this to your RV, you might like to use both for extra security. Use the 3M pad initially and then screw through that for extra stability and to avoid water leaking into the RV. On a house you wouldn’t need this but since your RV moves, using both gives extra peace of mind that the mount won’t come loose too. The camera pops in and out of the mount using a powerful magnet that holds it in place. Maybe remove it when you’re on the move, just in case.
You have two options for video storage with this Heimvision mode. Either you can avail of unlimited cloud storage for an extra fee or you can make a one-off investment in a SD card. The camera only records once it is activated by the motion detectors so your SD card won’t fill up quickly.
Not only does this camera switch automatically to night vision but it also has a passive infrared (PIR) sensor. This is the type of sensor that detects infrared radiation such as the heat of human or mammal. Meaning it won’t be activated by a leaf blowing by. You need wifi for this camera to work and for it to send an alert to your cell phone if it detects someone near the rig.
Cost
$$
Quality / Protection Offered
A sturdy little unit that is weatherproof.
Power Source
Battery powered with the option to plug it into an HMS1 Solar Panel.
Does it need Wifi?
Yes.
Installation
Easy.
Remote Monitoring
Yes. Your phone will receive an alert and you can check the live video feed.
Best RV Security Camera For No Wifi
A robust camera system for those without wifi, specifically for RVs and vans and adaptable for security purposes.
Check Amazon PriceTechnically this eRapta model is not a security camera. It is a camera system aimed at assisting you as you reverse an RV or van. In that sense, it gives you extra eyes around the whole vehicle with cameras placed on the rear and side of the vehicles. The durability of the camera and clarity of the picture make this a system that people like to hook up to a video recorder and use for security too.
The kit comes with a 7” monitor, so if you are in the RV and suspect someone is creeping around at night you can check without going outside. Both the monitor and cameras come with everything you need to mount them securely. These eRapta cameras are waterproof and designed to be left on when you are moving. So no panic about taking them down.
Cost
$$+
Quality / Protection Offered
Waterproof and strong. Not technically for security.
Power Source
Mains.
Does it need Wifi?
No.
Installation
Some drilling needed.
Remote Monitoring
No.
Best Door & Window Alarms for RV
Portable security sensors suitable for RV windows and doors and more affordable than most systems.
Check Amazon PriceA low budget alarm option for RVs and campers. These tiny plastic sensors fit on windows and doors easily and are installed using sticky pads. For extra reassurance, I can see RVers using the strongest double-sided tape they can find so they don’t have to worry about these being knocked off.
There are 6 sensors in a pack and each one has the ability to raise a 120dB alarm. They are battery operated and have a handy red indicator light to let you know when the batteries need changing.
It is important that the 2 sides of each sensor are placed withing 1cm of one another to create the magnetic connection needed. When the magnetic connection is broken by a window or door being opened, the alarm is triggered.
Cost
$
Quality / Protection Offered
Adequate for what you pay.
Power Source
Batteries.
Does it need Wifi?
No.
Installation
Easy.
Remote Monitoring
No.
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Affordable security system, not reliant on wifi or main power, suitable for RVs and trailers.
Check Amazon PriceTo start with, let’s be clear that this is not an integrated system. It is, on the other hand, a kit of 4 independently working security accessories. The large piece is a ‘deluxe’ door alarm with a 4 digit keypad for arming and disarming it. The smaller pieces are window/door sensors that do not interact with one another or with the door alarm.
All parts are battery operated and can be installed using the supplied 3M sticky pads or screws. There are also no wires so you can set it up in minutes. The alarm is another 120 dB alarm so you can be sure that neighboring RVers and wildlife will be alerted and that criminals will, most likely, be put off.
The window alarms can be set individually to either off or chime or alarm. You will have to do this manually each time you are heading out as there is no central base or app to control everything. The upside of that is that you won’t need wifi.
Cost
$
Quality / Protection Offered
Adequate for what you pay.
Power Source
Batteries.
Does it need Wifi?
No.
Installation
Easy.
Remote Monitoring
No.
Types of RV Security Systems
Integrated RV Security Systems (wifi required)
Integrated basically means that all the parts of your security system talk to one another via a central hub. An integrated security system generally comes with a set of different components that work together to keep your RV safe. Each system kit is different and could contain all or some of these parts: a security camera, motion sensors, door and window alarms, and a keypad. Integrated security systems are smart systems (connected to one another via the internet) so will always require a wifi signal to work.
Professional Monitoring
A useful option offered by some security system providers is the option to have your security system professionally monitored.
If professional monitoring is available, your security system will be connected to a service that is primed to look out for triggers such as your security alarm going off or a contact sensor being activated. Some systems can detect when motion sensors are activated and alert an agent in the monitoring center. Depending on the service, the monitoring center will most likely first call you to check if it is a false alarm and will call the police if a break-in is suspected or you are unavailable.
However, professional monitoring is not always an option for RVs or other types of mobile homes due to their mobile nature. Most companies require a home address. The reason for this is that they need to know where to send the emergency services should they be needed.
Camera Only RV Security Systems
Security cameras act as a deterrent to thieves as well as providing all important footage of activity around your RV. Many of the security cameras best suited to RVs are wireless models with relatively easy installation. Security cameras will need access to a wifi signal in order to send recorded footage to cloud storage and also to allow you to view live camera footage from your cellphone. Some RV security cameras are motion sensors and so will only activate when the sensor is triggered. This method saves both power and wifi use.
Door and Window Alarm RV Security Systems
Also known as contact sensors, door and window alarms come in the form of pairs of small blocks that are attached next to each other inside the RV. Each sensor has one part that attaches to the inner window frame (the part of the window that can be opened) or door and one part that is attached next to it on the window or door frame. When the alarm is on and the window or door is opened, the connection between the sensor parts is lost and the alarm is triggered.
How to Choose a Security System for your RV, Trailer or Camper
Cost
When it comes to security systems for your RV, you can expect to pay anything from around $20 up to $300-400 or even more. What you pay depends largely on what features you buy. A fully integrated system for example will be much more expensive than buying single feature systems like window sensors. There is something to fit every budget. Keep in mind that you, most likely, will have to pay additional fees for any kind of monitoring service and notification options.
Quality and Protection
When you are deciding on your needs and budget, consider the kind of quality and protection that you require. There are security systems that will deafen and scare anyone trying to break into your RV – and that’s all they will do. If that’s the only kind of protection you need then you can expect to budget less. Alternatively, there are security systems that will connect to your phone and systems that will detect fire and carbon dioxide too.
When it comes to quality, look for security systems with robust parts. The last thing you want is a camera malfunctioning in the heat or rain or a sensor coming loose after a few drives on bumpy dirt tracks.
Power Source
Always a burning question for any experienced RV or camper owner – Does it take batteries? The good news here is yes. There are a number of security systems available that are battery operated. There are also systems that come complete with a mini solar panel (about the size of a copybook) for charging. Other than being more eco friendly, the solar-powered option offers a couple of benefits for anyone in a van, RV, trailer, or camper. Firstly, it doesn’t drain your other power sources or need to be replaced. Secondly, it taps into a free power source so doesn’t drain your wallet either.
Installation
More and more security systems are being made with DIY installation in mind. The days of needing an engineer to call round and set you up are long gone. Nowadays, security systems are delivered to your home with an installation guide and QR codes that lead you to video instructions too.
There are fewer fiddly bits in modern security systems and far fewer wires since most systems are battery operated. Installing a security system in your RV should be much quicker and simpler than in a home since you have fewer windows and doors to contend with. However, if DIY is not your strength, consider enrolling a neighbor, friend, or family member to help you out. If you are stuck for someone to help you, call up the nearest mechanic and ask if they can help you out.
Remote Monitoring
This is usually available with camera systems and allows you to view live footage on your smartphone. Some systems live stream constantly, recording every minute of the day and night whereas others are motion-activated letting you know if someone is near your RV.
Does It Require wifi?
For cameras and integrated monitoring systems, it is probable that there will be a need for wifi in order to function correctly. This may or may not pose an issue for you. Most RV parks and resorts offer site-wide wifi for an additional fee. However, if communal sites aren’t your thing and you are the kind of RVer who likes to park up where ever you like then wifi could be lacking.
You could, of course, use your cellphone as a mobile hotspot if you never plan on being more than 20 meters from your rig. That’s the standard hotspot range. A better option would be to invest a little more in a mobile hotspot device that can stay in the van and keep the security system online whilst you are out.
What Can You Do Remotely?
With systems that come with an app, there are all manner of remote features available. These will differ from vendor to vendor. Some apps allow you to arm and disarm the system via the app so you don’t have to make that 30-second sprint to the keypad before the alarm sounds.
With others, you can access your camera footage in realtime and even talk through your camera. Handy if a friend stops by and you want to tell them when to call back but possibly not so useful for scaring away potential thieves.
Conclusion
When it comes to buying the best security system for your RV you will have to be realistic about what is available. Remote and professional monitoring is the ideal solution for many RV owners but aren’t always available for the transient nature of RV life. For anyone investing in the more expensive versions, don’t be afraid to have frank conversations with the suppliers about the suitability for your needs if there is anything you are not sure of. The last thing you want is a system that looks great but is rendered useless because of its reliance on a power source or technology that you don’t have access to.