So, you have an RV, your home away from home. It’s a major investment, it can be your pride and joy, and it’s worth protecting. Whether you’re on the road, or at home, you want to know that your RV is secured. That’s why we have created a guide to the best ways to secure RV and motor homes. One effective tools to secure your RV is by an electronic security system. It will secure your recreational vehicle but also give you peace of mind. But what is the best RV security system? What kind of RV security system should you choose? And what brand? These days, with advancing technology, there are now several suitable options on the market. But not all offer the same features and not all approach the issue of security the same. For example, should you consider an RV alarm system or an RV camera system? Or what about a combination system with both options? What is best for recreational vehicles?
As a security buff with with experience of security installation, I take a look at what options are most suitable to protect your motor home. I consider the different approaches to security and what you should look for in a security system for your RV. I then review several RV security systems: SimpliSafe, Arlo, Reolink Argus 2, Cove, Guardian RV, Guardzilla, Tattletale, Wsdcam and Reolink Go / Arlo Go. Click here for the final score.
Wireless Systems Change Everything
Technology has developed leaps and bounds in recent years. The old traditional alarm system using wires for both power and communication have been replaced by smart, battery-powered, wireless devices. While a wired security system can be very reliable, we have reached a point where wireless systems compete in terms of reliability, and also win in terms of convenience. And this makes wireless systems ideal for RVs. In fact, installing a wired alarm or camera system in an RV presents a number of problems that make the endeavor pointless and perhaps impossible. But wireless security systems are a game changer for securing your RV for a number of reasons.
Easy Installation
Firstly, wireless systems are easy to install. There are no wires that have to be run. That means no wires to conceal either. For those of us who have been in the business, running wires can require some significant planning. And for an RV, that could prove very difficult. Then comes the question of how to conceal or camouflage any exposed wires.Again, that can require some creativity, but in the tighter space of an RV no one wants unsightly wires or to mess with disfiguring the interior of the RV. Instead, the wireless system can literally be installed in a matter of minutes. No kidding… minutes.
Power Supply
An alarm system requires power. So, the question is, how will the system be powered in an RV. A conventional wired system requires wires to be run from the main panel of the system to the devices. But the devices in a wireless system do not necessarily require always-on power supply. Most will be powered by rechargeable batteries. A rechargeable battery is typically easy to charge using USB connectors. And in many modern wireless devices like those in the Cove Security System, the batteries can last for extended periods, with up to 5 years battery life. Very impressive. However, the main panels or communication hubs in the wireless alarm and camera systems will require power from an outlet of some sort. But this is nothing compared to the power supply wiring requirements of conventional wired systems.
Convenience
This is a big one. Because wireless devices are wireless, it means not only can they be placed anywhere, but also that they can be easily moved elsewhere when needed. Maybe you have a motion detector. It can be mounted in the corner, or moved and placed on a countertop. And maybe when your RV is in storage, you can pack up the security system and store it too… or use it elsewhere. In fact, you could use some of the devices in your home, if you have a similar system.
Affordable Price
The swath of new companies developing wireless security systems in recent years has helped to reduce prices. Wireless security systems can be really affordable. For a couple hundred bucks, you could have something simple and reliable in place. For something in the $300-700 range, you can have a number of devices, a couple cameras, and smartphone access.
Ideal For Life On The Road
Many of the wireless alarm systems offer professional monitoring services. This means that if there is an incident, and a device is triggered while your system is armed, a message is sent to the monitoring station. The operators will contact you or the emergency services , depending on the situation. This all used to be accomplished using telephone land lines. However, these new wireless security systems also transmit wirelessly to the monitoring station using cellular communication (the same as your smartphone). This means monitoring could take place wherever you find yourself…. as long as there’s a cell signal!
What Type of Security Systems Work for RVs?
There are several approaches to securing your motor home. It’s useful to understand these so that you can appreciate the pros and cons and what might be the best approach for your application:
Securing the Perimeter
One approach is to secure the perimeter around your rig. This can be done using different devices, but the idea is that if anything crosses the perimeter while the system is armed, then an alarm event is triggered. This sounds good, but, because of the environments RVs find themselves in (RV parks, campsites, or the wilderness), the perimeter approach is vulnerable to false alarms from neighboring campers or wild animals wondering past; maybe even wind-blown debris.
Entry Point Security Systems
These systems focus on the points of entry, like doors and windows. Devices used on these are often called “contacts”. They usually use magnets and come in two parts. One part stays on the non-moving surface, like the door frame and the other (the magnet), is fixed right next to the other but on the moving surface, like the door. When the door is closed, the two parts are in close contact and the device is “closed”. When the door opens, the magnet that keeps the circuit closed is moved and so the device will show “open”.
Entry point sensors can be a valuable part of any security system. But if you have many doors or windows to cover, covering all those entry points can be a costly, as well as tedious to install. That’s why motion sensors are a great option- they cover larger areas and can spot movement across the room, including where burglars may enter.
Motion Based Systems
the devises add huge flexibility to any system. Motion detectors can be used to secure both the perimeter as well as the internal areas. Basically, sensors are triggered by motion, usually from heat signatures using Infrared sensors. In my opinion any security system you install should have motion sensor components. They cover a lot of space, and when used correctly, can be very reliable devices.
Security Cameras
In the past few decades security cameras have shifted from large industrial devices to smaller inconspicuous ones. The image quality has improved tremendously over the years along with the technology, which now allows security cameras to function as more complete security devices themselves. In fact, a camera-based system could replace a traditional system these days. However, it’s better to use a camera system alongside or integrated with a home security system.
All-in-one Security Systems
All-in-one systems are a very popular option. they take the best of each of the above approaches and combine them. In fact, they can go a step further. In addition to burglar devices like entry point sensors and motion detectors, these all-in-one systems can include cameras and safety sensors like smoke and flood detectors. These systems can use wireless technology so that installation of the devices is a whole lot easier.
Wireless Alarm Systems: What Devices Should You Consider For Your RV?
An RV’s security requirements aren’t as demanding as those of a multi-room home that covers a couple thousand square feet. An RV security system can be kept simple and cover all your vulnerabilities and provide that peace of mind. There are some devices you might want to consider when investing in a security system for your RV.
Motion Detectors
As I mentioned, every security system should include motion detection. Motion sensors detect motion using Infrared heat sensors. When the system is armed, the motion sensor will trigger when it detects movement, also triggering an alarm. These devices are reliable. And to avoid false alarms, settings can be tweaked to alter sensitivity. This can be helpful in harsh environments with fluctuating temperatures where false signals could be an issue. You could also add a second motion detector to an area. That way, you will know the event is worth responding to.
Motion detectors have improved over the years and now include those that are pet immune as well. This means that smaller heat signatures from a cat or small to medium size dog will not cause an alarm condition.
Look for a system that includes some element of motion detection.
Entry Sensors
Entry sensors come in two main varieties. door sensors and window sensors. They are normally in two parts. One part mounted on the moving portion of the door/window and the other on the frame of the door/window. When the door window is opened, the two parts of the entry sensors are separated causing sending it into alarm. These are really useful devices. Often, the easiest point of access for a thief is via a door or window, so having these entry sensors is useful. They can even be mounted on things like sunroofs.
Entry sensors could be replaced by well-placed motion sensors. However, I recommend having both elements in a system for reliability. If you get two signals, one from an entry sensor and one from a motion detector, you know something’s up! So look for entry sensors when researching a system.
Smoke Detectors
There are several systems that offer wireless smoke detectors these days. In addition to smoke, they can also alert on high temperatures and carbon monoxide levels. It’s a no-brainer adding these to your system if the manufacturer offers them and it’s definitely something to look for when shopping for a wireless security system.
Key Fob Remote Control
I consider having a key fob remote control essential. It make your system so much more useful and convenient. It makes arming and disarming possible from your enter / exit your vehicle plus, most will have a panic button. This is an excellent feature you should look for. It provides peace of mind as you can send an alert or trigger a siren should you find yourself in a dangerous situation.
Wireless Cameras: What Features Should You Consider For Your RV?
Night Vision
When considering video surveillance these days, no matter the application, I always recommend getting cameras that have night vision. Good night vision. This will add another level of use to your system. The ability to see things at night clearly can make a tremendous difference in determining whether there is an emergency or not. Quality night vision can help identify features and faces under darkness, which can be invaluable when providing information to law enforcement.
Weatherproof
While you may not be thinking of using cameras outdoors, having weatherproof cameras gives you options down the road. When you’re tucked away in bed on the inside, it can be very reassuring to be able to see what’s going on outside. And outdoor camera can act like a door cam. And of course, with a camera positioned outdoors, you can view suspicious activity outside before it becomes a problem.
Solar Panel Options
If you are installing wireless cameras outside, then look for solar panel options. An outdoor wireless camera will require batteries to be charged. Depending on the location of the camera, this can be a nuisance. A solar panel that charges the batteries make changing batteries redundant. Stick it up, plug it in, and your camera will run and run. I use solar panels on all my outdoor cameras these days.
Local Video Storage
It is really nice to know that your video footage can be accessed quickly. The two main options are local storage and cloud storage but some cameras offer both, which is ideal. Local storage can be as simple as the camera having an SD card slot. The camera will record video to the SD card. Some system will have a central hub in your home where a hard drive or SD card can be attached. This allows all cameras to send footage wirelessly to the hub where it can be stored. It’s definitely reassuring to have a local copy of video when incidents happen.
Cloud Storage
Cloud storage is where the video is sent to remote servers out on the internet where it is stored securely. This has become a very popular option. It can often require an extra subscription, but what it does provide is easy access to video events from anywhere without having to go to a local hard drive or SD card.
Easily Removable
If you have an RV, then you’ll be on the move. There’s no telling where you might stop. Having cameras that are easily re-relocatable can be a major advantage. You can reposition your cameras to capture a particular view, depending on where you are parked up.Some cameras are more flexible in this department than others. Some for example, have very strong magnet bases which makes them easy to relocate. Some may require more creativity with mounting devices.
Look for Access Via Your Mobile Device
Another feature you’ll want to look for is access via your mobile device. Your smart phone is normally always with you. And so it is incredibly handy to be able to receive alerts and alarms on your smart phone. Obviously for this to happen, your system will have to communicate with your phone. For you to control and access your security system from your mobile device you’ll need to have a system that is on the internet. Likewise, your phone will have to have internet access. So this is an important consideration for an RV- do you have for example, 4G LTE service? That will work! If you just want text message alerts or calls, without control of your system or access to cameras etc., then it’s possible with some systems to receive text alerts straight from your system.
Look for No-Contract Cellular Monitoring
Many of the new security systems on the market that offer professional monitoring, also offer it without the contracts that came with old, conventional systems. These days, it’s about convenience and choice. If you’re looking for a security system that does have monitoring you’ll want to select one that allows you to cancel the monitoring without penalty. Monitoring is usually month-to-month. This means when you don’t require monitoring of your RV you simply cancel it and renew the service when you need it again. And again, you’ll want to make sure that the monitoring takes place across a cellular network. This means that wherever you travel that has cell service, your system will be securely monitored by a central station.
The Best RV Security Systems for 2023
So what are the best RV security systems? We outline the best below. These picks include of best RV alarm systems , as well as the best video surveillance system for RVs.
#1 SimpliSafe Security System (Best All-in-One)
Advantages of SimpliSafe
The SimpliSafe security system is designed for homes but is an ideal option for RV and fifth wheelers. This system is an all-in-one option. On the burglary side of things SimpliSafe offers protection through motion detectors, entry sensors for doors and windows as well as cameras. On the safety side of things, SimpliSafe offers smoke and CO2 sensors, plus flood sensors.
SimpliSafe has been around for a while and is one of the biggest players in the wireless home security market. They have perfected the DIY approach making it incredibly easy to install the system yourself. Just plug in the base station and install the sensors where you need to and you’re in business!
SimpliSafe also offer professional 24/7 monitoring services. Communication with the central monitoring station is via cellular network making it ideal for RVs.
Simplisafe Bindles & Pricing
You can purchase devices individually but really it’s best to purchase a system as one of their convenient SimpliSafe bundles.
For example, a 12 piece bundle is currently $349 and comes with:
- 1x base station (the brains of the system), which has a 95dB siren
- 1x Keypad for arming and disarming the system
- 2x motion detectors
- 1x panic button to keep by your bed
- 1x key fob for remote arm and disarm and with secret panic button
- 1x HD indoor camera
You can easily add to the system should you need to. Install sensors on sunroofs, doors, windows, and puck up motion detectors in corners. You can have all nooks covered.
SimpliSafe Professional Monitoring
You may also pay a flat rate of ~$0.50 per day to obtain 24/7 professional monitoring, which will give you an extra layer of security. When an emergency occurs, you’ll be able to contact police, firefighters, and medical dispatch teams! And, there is no contract, just month to month. So you have a lot of flexibility. The nice thing with SimpliSafe is that you can also self-monitor your system. Rather than pay to have alerts sent to a professional monitoring station, you can opt to have the alerts only sent to your phone for free and save.
SimpliSafe Cameras
The cameras are decent but not the absolute best out there. For example, I consider Arlo’s cameras among the best. But, SimpliSafe did just recently release an outdoor camera to complement their indoor camera and doorbell cams and the SimpliSafe cameras all function reliably with good picture quality. They have night vision as standard and the outdoor camera even has a spotlight for color night vision. SimpliSafe has also made some cameras smart, allowing people or animals to be detected for example. This helps to cut down on false alarms.
You can also find third party solar panels to charge the outdoor cameras. You’ll be able to access and view all of your camera’s live feeds using your smart device. The app is simple, sleek and does what you need it to.
For extra backup in case of power outage, the base station has a 24 hour battery.
SimpliSafe Overall
While the cost isn’t as low as some of the options, you will get a lot of options with the SimpliSafe. It offers safety devices as well as burglar devices and cameras. And the professional monitoring is a reassuring feature should you need to activate it. Plus, SimpliSafe has a decent track record in customer support should you need to contact them for assistance.
The SimpliSafe system, with the added functions of environmental sensors and cameras with optional professional monitoring is really a good deal. A 10-piece SimpliSafe bundle at $420 includes includes 1 HD outdoor and 1 HD indoor camera, 4 entry sensors and 2 motion detectors and keypad. This has plenty of options for an RV and there are smaller bundles. You can also purchase devices individually. If you want to see how Simplisafe compares with my other top pick, Arlo, then you should read Arlo vs Simplisafe: which is the best for your home?
Overall, the SimpliSafe Security System is the most flexible and well-rounded system for RVs.
#2 Arlo Systems (Best Higher-End Cameras)
Arlo is a leader in DIY video security technology. They have been around for a while, and they have been at the forefront of innovating wireless video quality. The Arlo Pro 2 is one of their older models, but is still a superb wireless camera. They have since improved on the Pro by releasing the Pro 4 and Ultra 2 with 4K HDR resolution, wider field of view and spotlights, among other innovative features. Here’s a more complete Arlo review.
Arlo Outdoor Cameras
Arlo’s cameras typically use a base station. This acts as a communication hub between the cameras and the internet. It also means that battery life of the cameras is extended considerably.
Although Arlo offer some indoor only cameras, their outdoor cameras are really where they shine. They are weatherproof and really reliable. I have not had problems with weatherproofing and my Arlo cameras have been exposed to hurricane-like rain on several occasions.
The wide field of view (upwards of 120 degrees) offered by Arlo cameras also makes them a great option for RV use. It means you get a lot of coverage from one device, whether that’s inside or out.
Arlo Mobile App & Smart Features
The Arlo cameras also have a really excellent mobile app that allows live view of your cameras but also configuration. Schedules can be set as well as motion zones. The system can then be armed so that no alerts are triggered until motion is detected in the motion zone that you have drawn within the cameras view. Even better, the smart technology allows recognition of people, animals, even packages. This really helps reduce false alarms. The app is very well designed and easy to sue, more so than any other system on this list.
And the smart automation options you have with Arlo are considerable. They shine in this. So, if you do happen to have other smart devices, you can connect them all together so they can communicate and generate sequences of events and response given certain scenarios.
Arlo Night Vision
The night vision performance of Arlo cameras is great too. More recent models have motion triggered spotlights (see here for bonus tip), that allow for awesome color night vision.
Easy Installation
What makes these cameras even more suitable for RV use is their ease of installation. They have high strength magnetic mounts which make it really easy to put them up, and then take them down. They can also be used with other mounting devices, but I have found the magnetic mounts to be surprisingly reliable, even under severe wind and rain.
Arlo Pricing
The Arlo systems are on the higher price end but they still represent good value given their quality. The Arlo option start with the Arlo Essential at $100 per camera, and progress to the Pro 3 (at $300 for 3 cameras), the Pro 4 (at $457 for 3 cameras) and the high end 4K Ultra ($479 for 2 cameras). All are very dependable, high performing devices with extra smart features that I can personally attest to. The Pro 2 system is older now, but if you can find it at a decent price it’s very reliable.
#3 Reolink Argus 2 With Solar Panel (Best Value Camera)
Reolink Advantages
The Reolink Argus 2 is a solid camera-based security option for your RV. It is an outdoor camera but can be used indoors too. It’s starlight sensors offer really excellent night vision and it comes with a solar panel for charging. This is a great feature. It can almost be installed and just left, charging itself. It can also be charged using a conventional USB charger too.
The Reolink Argus 2 also has Alexa and Google Assistant capabilities for some automation capability. And, it’s 2-way audio allows you to listen in but also speak to someone on the other end.
The build quality is pretty good. Reolink has been producing cameras for a while now and have built a reputation for their decent but affordable solutions.
Reolink Cloud
One of the stand out features of the Reolink is the free cloud storage you can use for your recordings. You can enjoy a free 7-day rolling cloud storage where incident videos are securely uploaded to the removable SD card or to Reolink’s cloud server. This way you can watch your cameras live or play back video stored on the cloud for 7 days. Other brands charge for these services.
Reolink Overall
The Reolink cameras are a great option for a camera-based security system- the technology you receive at the price point is very decent. A Reolink Argus 2 is $70. The Relonink Srgus 2 with solar panel camera starts at $100. You can build a good multi-camera system for a reasonable price.
#4 Cove Security System (Very Good All-in-One)
Advantages with Cove
The Cove system is very similar to the SimpliSafe. It’s an all-in-one system with many device options. It’s completely wireless and incredibly easy to install, probably more so than the SimpliSafe. Like SimpliSafe there’s professional monitoring, and they offer a three-level response for greater redundancy. You can communicate with the central monitoring station via the control panel, text message or phone call. So, whenever there’s an issue, you’ll receive very quick response. Like SimpliSafe, there’s also additional environmental safety devices that will sense smoke, carbon monoxide and water, indicating flood conditions. So, it’s more than just a burglar alarm system.
Cove Cameras
Cove also offer cameras. In fact, very often they will include the first camera free when you purchase a system. That’s a pretty nice savings. Plus, they like to offer discounts throughout he year so keep an eye out.
Drawbacks with Cove
The only downside is that you won’t be able to self-monitor your system. There is no option for that like there is with SimpliSafe. This means that you’ll have to fork out some money to have your system monitored professionally and also to access smart device features. But, the monitoring is no-contract, so you have flexibility to cancel anytime should you need to. Here’s a complete review of Cove security systems.
The system communicates via cellular network, so your system’s communication with the monitoring station will reliable. Overall, Cove is a simple system that’s really easy to install and which could work well in an RV should you want the benefit of professional monitoring.
Other Alternative Security Systems
While the systems listed above are your best options for RV security, you will come across some others out there. While I won’t recommend these, they may still be suitable for you and your motor home.
Tattletale
This is a portable wireless system that’s typically used on construction sites so it is definitely a contender for use in motor homes too. It’s not badly priced at $100, and it is expandable to 50 sensors including door sensors and glass break sensors.You can also add a key fob remote for arming/disarming. And the panel itself has a patented tamper-proof feature to ensure no one tampers or runs off with your device once activated. The panel also boast 20 hour battery backup and pet immune motion detection.
Guardzilla
This is very basic system that combines motion detection and cameras in one single unit. It’s portable, and easy to setup. It may be too basic for some, and reliability can be an issue. But for $65, it might be worth a try.
Wsdcam Door & Window Sensors
For entry-point security the Wsdcam sensors are an effective and affordable option. You can add up to 50 wireless door/window sensors. These can be controlled with a remote. The remote will let you arm, disarm the system as well as trigger a panic alarm. You can also put the sensors in doorbell chime mode so the sensors chime when the door opens. The siren is very loud at 105dB. They start at $12 for one, but you can pick up a bundle of 4 sensors for $28 or 10 sensors for $49.
RV Guardian
This is an all-in-one system, that uses cellular networks for communication. It requires that an antenna be installed on your RV. While this may ensure that you get good reporting service to the Guardian hub and ultimately to your mobile device, it can be an inconvenience to install. Furthermore, the system is pretty costly. A basic system with three devices will set you back $695. Additional devices are also more pricey than those from SimpliSafe or Cove.
Arlo Go 2 & Reolink Go PT (LTE cameras)
I have included these two models together. Both Arlo and Reolink have a nice line up of cameras, but these models communicate via the LTE network. This means that as long as you have mobile signal, you can access your Arlo Go 2 or Reolink Go PT cameras. You don’t need another internet. However, it does mean that these are standalone cameras. If you want access to multiple “Go” cameras, each will have to have LTE SIM cards. But they could be a good option out on the road. The Arlo is more costly than the Reolink but I consider it better made and more reliable.
Bonus Tips: Low Cost Prevention and Deterrents to Secure Your RV
It’s very helpful to know when someone has broken in to your motor home. Unfortunately, at that point, some damage has already been done. The burglar may have dropped their swag, but the damage they caused in gaining entry can be costly to repair, and a nightmare to arrange. That’s why prevention is an important element in any security strategy and this includes for RV break-ins. Deterring a thief from entering your RV can be low cost and save you thousands. Here are two cheap ideas.
Signage
It can be as simple as putting up some signs that state your RV is secured, protected and monitored. It can make a thief think twice, that’s for sure. If you’re in an RV park, which RV is going to be the easiest target? Your rig, with the security signage and warnings, or the rig next door without any visible security? Many of the alarm and camera companies above provide stickers for windows and signs for yards and these can be used on and around your RV. You could even come up with your own. Magnetic-backed options would be ideal- they wouldn’t damage the vehicle and can be easily removed for travel.
Motion-Sensor Lights
A burglar’s intentions will soon be scuppered as they approach your RV and they trigger some nice bright lights. Usually a burglar prefers to do their deeds under the cover of shadows. So attracting attention through the triggering of bright lights is a major turn off. These motion sensor lights can be inexpensive, and some can be solar-powered. Here’s some motion light recommendations for your RV. It’s a simple way to make it more difficult for undesirables to get close to your rig.
The Final Score – The Best RV Security System
If you have invested in an RV, then you’ll want to protect that investment, whether it’s in your driveway or on the road. After consideration of all the options available, here’s the final score.
1st Place: SimpliSafe (All-in-One)
- All-in-one system provides the most options and the greatest flexibility for your RV.
- With cellular connection, you can monitor your system yourself or, for a reasonable monthly fee, opt for no-contract professional 24/7 monitoring.
- It is easily expandable, and safety sensors like smoke detectors and flood sensors, as well as a growing line of decent cameras, can be added to the system. So, overall, SimpliSafe ticks all the boxes.
- SimpliSafe has been around for a little while and has led the wireless DIY home security system market.
2nd Place: Cove Security System (All-in-One)
- An all-in-one system similar to SimpliSafe with burglar devices as well as environmental safety devices
- 24/7 no contract monitoring with fast response via text, telephone or their control panel
- Cove does not offer self-monitoring like SimpliSafe. That means you’ll pay for monthly monitoring.
- The app isn’t quite as well-designed and complete as others.
- Cove is a new kid in town, but has gathered a large customer base.
3rd Place: Reolink Argus 2 (Camera-Based)
- Great outdoor night-vision cameras at decent price
- Some free cloud storage thrown in with SD Card storage
4th Place: Arlo Cameras
- Higher-end, durable outdoor cameras
- Exceptional image quality
- Lots of smart features, including automation
In all these systems, installation and setup is really easy and no wiring is required, making them ideal for mobile use. These system are definitely worth your time to check out. After all, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure! You should also consider other simple ways to secure your RV (and home) using the 6 D’s.
Stay safe!