10 Easy Tips to Stay Safe in Your RV
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RV life is full of adventure, but like anything else, safety comes first, whether you're boondocking in the middle of nowhere or parked at a bustling campground. Over the years, we’ve picked up some simple, practical tips to help keep you (and your RV) safe while you’re out chasing those “someday” moments.
Here are 10 easy ways to stay safe
1. Trust Your Gut
If you roll into a campground or a boondocking spot and something feels off, listen to that instinct. Don’t talk yourself into staying somewhere that gives you the creeps. It’s always okay to pack up and move on. It’s a simple way to stay safe and avoid trouble before it starts.
Thankfully, this has only happened to us once in the past 7 years. It was at a Walmart and we didn’t even put the RV in park. Phil just drove right back out of that parking lot.
2. Light It Up
Sprinkle lights around your campsite like tiny campfire sparks. They’re cozy, they’re welcoming, and they’re an incredibly simple way to stay secure. A well-lit space naturally keeps people (and critters!) from wandering too close.
Set up some motion sensor lights or string lights around your site. It’s amazing what a few extra lumens can do to keep things feeling secure.
Just be aware of your neighbors. Once you pack up your stuff and yourself for the night, make sure your lights are not shining a spotlight in your neighbors’ bedroom window.
3. Know Your Neighbors
A quick introduction to the RV next door can go a long way. Fellow travelers are usually happy to keep an eye out for each other, and you’ll feel safer knowing who’s nearby. It’s simple, but it works.
Besides, you never know when you will meet someone you will click with. It happened to us in a campground in Tennessee! And 7 years later, we still travel with Al & Angie every chance we get.
4. Secure Your Gear
Imagine coming back from a day hike to find your favorite camp chairs gone!
Camp chairs, bikes, grills, if it’s not bolted down, it’s better to lock it up or tuck it away when you’re not around. Even in the friendliest campgrounds, things can walk off, especially at busy or roadside stops. We’ve made it a habit to lock up our bikes and stash smaller gear inside when we head out for the day. It’s a simple step that saves big headaches later.
It’s not about being overly cautious. It’s just about not giving anyone an easy opportunity. Bonus: Putting your belongings away also protects them from unexpected wind gusts and rain.
5. use a security Camera
Having a security camera on your RV is just one of those things that makes life on the road feel a little safer. If you hear a strange noise outside or someone approaches your site, you can quickly check the camera without having to step out into the unknown. It’s also super helpful when you’re away from your rig for the day or the week (you know, like when you are on the Today is Someday cruise). You can peek in and make sure everything looks good.
We've just started using Waggle’s RV security camera (no, it's not just for pets) and we’re loving it. It’s easy to set up and lets us check on our RV from anywhere, right on our phones. Phil simply opens the app on his phone, and he can view the entire site by panning the camera. It’s a total game-changer when you’re boondocking or leaving your RV unattended for a while.
6. find the Storm Shelter
One of the first things we do when we roll into a new campground, especially in areas known for severe weather, is find the storm shelter (if there is one). Campground maps sometimes have it marked, but if not, ask at check-in. Knowing exactly where to go if high winds, hail, or that tornado siren goes off can make a huge difference when seconds count.
Also, keep keys, shoes, and essentials in a grab-and-go spot so you’re not scrambling if you need to move fast. A minute of preparation could be the difference between calmly walking to safety or panicking in the dark.
7. Check Weather Alerts
Make it a simple daily habit to check local weather, especially if you’re near the coast, mountains, or traveling in storm season. Storms can sneak up fast. Phil uses the Windy app and The Weather Channel daily.
8. Lock Your Doors and Windows
This one’s so simple, but so often forgotten. You’d be surprised how often we forget to do this, especially when we’re just stepping out "for a minute." Make it part of your routine to lock up, just like you would at home. It adds one more layer of safety.
9. Don’t Advertise Your Absence
It’s a simple shift in mindset. When you head out for the day, don’t make it obvious that your rig is empty. Leaving everything tucked in and spotless sends a signal that nobody’s home. Imagine coming back to find out you’d unintentionally invited someone to snoop. Keep it casual, keep it lived-in, keep it safe.
10. Know Emergency Contacts and Locations
When you arrive at a new campground, take a simple moment to note the nearest hospital, urgent care, or vet (if you travel with pets). Your campground address and site number are also important. Keep them in the same place every time. It's as easy as putting the check in the brochure on the fridge with a magnet after you check in. If you need to call 911, you don’t want to waste time looking for the campground address, as not all systems can pinpoint your exact location.
It’s one of those things you hope you’ll never need, but you’ll be glad you have it if you do.
Stay safe out there
RV life is all about freedom, adventure, and connection, but it’s even better when you know you’ve got simple safety steps in place. Tools like the Waggle security camera can give you peace of mind, but ultimately, it’s about staying aware, remembering the basics, and trusting your instincts.
What are your go-to RV safety tips? Share them in the comments. We’d love to learn from you, too!
Meet Stacy! Stacy and her husband, Phil, are a wanderlust couple who have been roaming the great USA for an epic 7 years! They ditched the daily grind to embark on thrilling adventures and inspire fellow dreamers to chase their travel dreams. Curious about how they do it? Check out their awesome YouTube channel, Today is Someday, where they're spilling all the secrets to living a life on the move. Get ready to pack your bags and join them on this incredible journey.
