When your van is your home, securing it becomes a top priority. Your entire life might be in your van, so it’s crucial that you feel secure knowing your valuables are safe. The good news is, there are both DIY and professional installation options available for any type of van life van.
In this article, we’ll look at the best camper van security systems, including GPS tracking, video cameras, locks, door alarms, and glass break sensors. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
WhereSafe GPS Tracker
In the worst-case scenario that your van does get stolen, having a GPS tracker attached to it can be a lifesaver. The WhereSafe GPS Tracker mounts magnetically to the underside of the vehicle and tracks the vehicle’s movements at all times.
The tracker sends data to an app on your phone, and the app will alert you if any breaches in security are detected. For example, you can set up a geofence or speed limit so that the app alerts you when the van is detected outside a particular geographical area or traveling above a certain speed.
With this GPS-based security system, you don’t need to be constantly monitoring the app, as you would with other SMS-based alarm systems. Plans start at $120 per year.
SimpliSafe Security System
The SimpliSafe Security System is an all-in-one security system that comes with door motion detectors, window alarms, motion sensors, outdoor cameras, loud alarm sirens, and even water and temperature sensors. The setup runs through a base station, which connects to your phone to provide real-time updates.
The system works best when connected to Wi-Fi, so you can stream data directly to an app on your phone and record footage from the security cameras. Without Wi-Fi, the security system still works – alarms will still sound, etc. – you just won’t get the footage or remote monitoring capabilities.
Kill Switch
A kill switch prevents your vehicle from working in the event that someone tries to steal it. There are a few different types of kill switches, including fuel line valves, car battery disconnects, fuse box kill switches, and ignition kill switches.
The KTNNKG 12V Master Battery Disconnect is a great option for those looking to go the extra mile to protect their van in unsafe areas. It cuts off the connection between your battery and the 12V fuses that power the vehicle. It comes with a remote control so you can easily turn the switch on when you park and off before you drive away.
Steering Wheel Lock
This is one of the cheapest and most effective after-market camper van security items you can buy. We recommend using a steering wheel clamp or lock even if you plan to install additional security systems. A steering wheel lock attaches to the steering wheel of your van and prevents the wheel from turning in a full range of motion, making it impossible to drive the van away.
Alone, this lock can’t secure your valuables, but it makes a good visual deterrent. Thieves are much less likely to bother with a van that has obvious and visible security measures installed than one that looks relatively easy to break into.
The best steering wheel lock, in our opinion, is The Club 3000 Twin Hooks. It’s sturdy, durable, fits any car or van, and costs just $30.
Door Locks
In addition to the regular locks on your van’s doors, consider using additional locks like deadbolts, padlocks, and slam locks.
Deadbolts
An interior deadlock – also known as a mortise lock – is usually professionally installed by a locksmith, although you can also install them yourself. They mount on the inside of the door and require a key to open. Thunderbolt is a trusted brand of interior deadbolts.
An exterior deadlock is easy to install yourself and mounts on the outside of the door. Master Lock is probably the best brand for this type of deadbolt.
Cab Door Bars
The Fiamma Cab Security Bar is a simple van security system that stretches between the two front door handles of your van and connects them together to prevent them from opening. You can also achieve the same thing yourself with a chain and padlock.
Slam Locks
A slam lock is a professionally installed interior lock that locks automatically when the door is closed. This can give you great peace of mind if you tend to forget things and worry that you may have left your van parked somewhere without locking the doors.
It is possible to install a slam lock yourself. If that’s something you want to try, check out the Prime Line Single Cylinder Deadbolt Chrome Slam Lock.
RV Security Cameras
Installing a security camera or multiple cameras in your van can be a great way to give yourself peace of mind if you have to leave the van overnight or park long-term in an insecure area. If something does happen to your van, you’ll have recorded footage to show police, and some cameras can livestream footage directly to your phone (as long as you have a reliable WiFi or data connection).
Dashboard Camera System
A dashboard security camera mounts on the dash of your van and captures anything that happens through the windshield. It is not only good for catching break-ins but also for hit-and-runs and other accidents.
The RedTiger dashcam is a good, relatively inexpensive option.
Mounted Security Camera
The ArloPro 3 is a small, mounted RV security camera that is activated by motion detection. It’s low-profile, delivers 2K video resolution, has great night vision, and has a battery that lasts up to 6 months.
Starlink
Starlink isn’t a security system, but having reliable data gives you the ability to livestream footage from a dash cam, and may also be necessary for other camper van security systems like the SimpliSafe. Starlink satellite internet is a great option for those who spend the majority of their time in remote areas (the tall buildings of urban centers make it difficult for the dish to see the satellites).
Secure Your Van, Secure Your Peace of Mind
For those van lifers pursuing van life full-time, your van is your everything. Don’t skimp on camper van security systems. If you can afford to invest in an all-in-one solution like SimpliSafe, the up-front cost is well worth it. If not, steering and wheel locks, deadbolts, a GPS tracker, and other features like cab bars and padlocks can go a long way in keeping your van safe and sound.
FAQs
How can I make my camper van security system better?
Here are some tips for securing your van for van life:
- Always store your tools out of sight at night
- Use visual deterrents like a wheel lock, security system decals, etc.
- Park somewhere well-lit and safe
- Back up against a wall
- Install GPS tracking
- Keep your keys with you
- Always lock your van
Are van deadbolts worth it?
Van deadbolts are essential for security. They provide an additional layer of security beyond regular door locks, making it more difficult for thieves to break in. Ultimately, a determined thief can get around any measure you put in front of them, so the more security measures you have in place, the harder your van will be to break into and the more likely a thief will look elsewhere for an easier target.
What are the most secure van locks?
Keyless deadbolts are the best way to secure your van. They are a type of high-security interior door lock that works electronically. They are impossible to break.
