How to keep your camper and gear safe from theft

Camping trailers, RVs, and tenting campsites can be easy targets for thieves. Theft from campers and campsites have been increasing nationwide. Campers tend to have valuable personal possessions like coolers, outdoor entertainment items (like expensive bicycles or kayak/canoes), or even the camper or RV itself!  It is essential that you take time, both prior to your trip and while camping, to protect your possessions.

Choosing the right campground                                                                                                                                              

Research the campground on social media. People often post reviews that will help you make a wise choice in campground.

When possible, pick a campground that has some level of security: check-in with security gate, safety patrols, and security cameras.

Ask the campground staff or park officials about recent problems at the campground and surrounding parks. Campground staff may advise you to avoid certain campsites or areas within the facility.

Find a happy balance in campsite visibility                                                                                     

Choose a campsite away from busy paths and roads so those passing by can’t easily see your belongings but your camp should be visible enough to create apprehension in a potential thief. Also, trespassers are more likely to be interrupted at a more visible campsite.

Get to know your neighbors!

As soon as you can, introduce yourself to your neighbors. This will give you a sense of who they are and what they are about. If you don’t get the best feeling, it may be wise to move onto a different site or campground.

Most of the time, you will likely find wonderful camping neighbors. Ask them if they have visited the campground before and get the lowdown on any potential issues. If they are trustworthy, ask them if they would keep an eye out for suspicious activity while you are gone, and offer to do the same for them.

Leave valuable personal property at home

The best way to avoid the loss or theft of something valuable is to leave it secured at home! Expensive jewelry or electronic equipment aren’t needed for when you’re camping. Take out the worry by leaving them at home.

Most importantly, take the time to hide and secure your possessions

Simple items like coolers, expensive camping equipment, bicycles or kayaks can attract people looking for a quick theft. While it may be an inconvenience to pack and unpack to prevent theft, it will not nearly be as painful as the loss of valuable essentials to your camping trip.

If you are using a camper, put away any property of value that could be quickly taken. Lock doors and pull all curtains. This will deter anyone from spying into your place looking for opportunity.

If you have a homeowners or renters policy, there is protection for your possessions when away from your home. Talk to your Nodak Insurance agent to make sure you have the right coverage to protect you on your camping adventures.