Boondocking and securing valuables

[Mac 44]

While nothing is entirely theft proof, when camping and especially boondocking in places where  expensive gear is exposed, and especially vulnerable while away from the campsite (esp inverter generators), one way to heavily discourage a would-be opportunist, is a bolt-cutter proof lock and chain.  Pictured is a 1/2”  chain and lock. It would take a cutting wheel to break it. This chain is from Tulsa Chain. The lock is a Viro.  We worry a lot less about our gear things are secured with it.

[Ray and Susan Huff 567]

How much does this increase your payload?  lol

[Mac 44]

Seriously, depends on chain length. We went with 30’ so theres plenty of room to secure several things. The chain is appx 50 lbs.

[BackofBeyond 813]

Nice stuff! Pretty expensive though, not counting the lock. 

[Mac 44]

Seriously, depends on chain length. We went with 30’ so theres plenty of room to secure several things. The chain is over 50 lbs!

[Mac 44]

For sure we went overkill. Considered the 3-8” chain at about half the price (and weight) and it would have done the trick, but doubt we’ll regret experiencing the extra peace of mind from amped security of the 1/2” chain.  Two generators, two bikes and propane equipment, etc, would be a hassle to replace.  As noted, the lock wasnt inexpensive either, but necessary to complete the system. 

[xmavrick 10]

I am no expert but wouldn't it be more cost effective to remove the eye candy from your camp site and take it with you, so thieves have no reason to monitor your site and steal your possessions!  Another thought is many popular you tubers say thieves won't make the effort to leave populated areas to hunt for victims to steal from! An oxygen/acetylene portable torch will burn through any small chain in less than 60 seconds, in reality if someone wants your stuff they will take it.

[Ray and Susan Huff 567]

9 hours ago, xmavrick said:

I am no expert but wouldn't it be more cost effective to remove the eye candy from your camp site and take it with you, so thieves have no reason to monitor your site and steal your possessions!  Another thought is many popular you tubers say thieves won't make the effort to leave populated areas to hunt for victims to steal from! An oxygen/acetylene portable torch will burn through any small chain in less than 60 seconds, in reality if someone wants your stuff they will take it.

Any anti-theft device is merely a deterrent . . . . . a means of keeping honest people honest.  Aside from taking valuable items with you, theft-proof security is a rarity.  Make it difficult for thieves to "help themselves" to your gear, but remember that  "out of sight" removes the temptation.  

[Moonlight Mile 184]

FWIW - and I am N00b with Ollie due Jan 26 - I was wondering if a battery  operated “Ring” “stick up cam” in a window or inside would be possible, or of use. Records motion, saves. I dunno about how to do internet in an RV (yet), or if it would work, but I have one in my rental house and was able to prosecute a nutcase would-be vandal because of it. Showing my ignorance here again but this is a topic I am gonna follow and thanks for posting it.

Edited October 9, 2020 by SherMica

[SeaDawg 1,548]

I don't know if ring works without wifi. Many game cameras do, though. 

[connor77 107]

This may be of some interest regarding Ring and RV security...