Batteries for RVs are no exception to the rule that everything valuable is subject to theft.
You don’t want anybody leaving with yours, and if you’ve lately looked for an RV battery, you know that they may vary from “not cheap” to “super-duper costly.”
Do you need an RV battery lock then?
A battery box and battery lock will reduce the likelihood that a thief will succeed in stealing yours.
It will, at the very least, maintain the integrity of the honest.
What kind of RV you have and where you keep it while it’s not in use will determine whether or not you truly need a battery lock.
To assist you in determining if you need an RV battery lock and which model is ideal for you, we’ve put together this information.
Table of Contents
What is an RV Battery Lock?
Your RV batteries can’t be stolen if you utilize an RV battery lock.
It may consist of chains, cables, brackets, or it may be combined with a battery box.
Another option is to relocate the batteries to a safe area on your trailer, much like a fifth-wheel.
How many batteries you have, where you want to store them, and what gear you currently have will all influence the structure of your trailer.
Suggestion reading: Should I Disconnect My RV Battery When Plugged In To Shore Power?
What RVs Need Battery Locks?
Because not all RVs put their batteries in places where they may be (easily) stolen, not every owner of an RV or trailer has to be concerned about having a lock for their battery.
It’s unlikely that the batteries in motorhomes and campers would be taken since they are under the hood.
Fifth-wheel batteries are often already hidden away in a safe box.
This implies that RVers towing a travel trailer will find battery boxes and locks to be of particular use.
The battery on a trailer often rests between the trailer and your car, making it the most convenient place for criminals to steal one.
Although batteries could be taken when the trailer is in use, it’s more crucial to worry about safeguarding them when the travel trailer is in storage.
RV Battery Locking System Types
RV battery locking mechanisms come in numerous varieties.
#1. Battery Lock Box For RVs
A sturdy container that protects your battery from the outdoors and curious hands is called an RV battery box.
Polypropylene, aluminum, or other non-corrosive materials are often used in their construction.
When buying, be careful to study the specifications of each choice since although many battery boxes are made with security in mind, others are merely for storage.
For a vacation trailer, a lockable RV battery box is an excellent alternative since it conceals what’s inside.
However, those who are acquainted with trailers will immediately recognize that they contain one or more batteries.
Others may need the addition of a battery box lock strap, but most can be opened with a key, making them simple to lock and unlock.
#2. Bracket For RV Battery Lock
If you don’t want a big lockbox on the tongue of your trailer, you can achieve comparable security with an RV battery lock bracket.
Depending on the batteries you have, there are many alternatives.
While others snugly fit over the battery, other designs form a metal cage around it.
Padlocks may be used to lock the brackets, making it impossible for anybody to remove them.
The Battery Shackle is a well-liked RV battery lock bar.
They provide powerful locks for single or dual battery configurations.
Even a comparable solution to lock your gas tanks in the same way is available from them.
Related Also: PopUp Camper Battery: The Unlimited Guide
#3. RV Battery Locks Made Of Chains Or Cables
Even though there are a ton of alternatives for specialist RV battery lock systems on the market, a DIY RV battery lock is simple to create.
To tie down the batteries to the trailer tongue or secure your RV lockbox, use any kind of chains or cables.
You may save some money by making your own lock.
#4. Transferring The Battery To A Secure Room
You could want more overall space if you have big or many batteries.
You may be able to relocate your battery system to one of the trailer’s safe storage spaces.
If you want to choose this path, you may wish to seek out a specialist’s assistance.
To avoid harmful off-gassing or corrosion, certain batteries need to be properly ventilated and stored.
This solution not only gives you more room, but it also keeps the batteries hidden from would-be thieves.
They’ll have a lot more trouble taking your battery if they don’t know where it is.
Pros and Cons of Battery Locks
RV batteries may be quite expensive; some go for hundreds of dollars (looking at you, lithium-ion batteries).
If you have two of them, the cost of the batteries for your RV may easily exceed $1,000.
The biggest benefit of having a battery lock is that it can’t be stolen.
It’s preferable to prevent that catastrophe completely as some insurance plans do not cover battery theft.
Batteries are also shielded from the elements by lockboxes.
The benefits of installing a locking mechanism on your batteries outweigh the drawbacks by a wide margin.
That said, you could have to pay a significant amount of money in advance depending on the lock you choose.
Battery locks not only have up-front fees, but they may also delay your ability to access batteries.
Recommended reading: Does My Travel Trailer Battery Charge When Plugged In?
Ways to Prevent RV Battery Theft by Locking a Battery Box
Sadly, some people will steal your batteries in order to earn fast money.
It’s a good idea to secure your RV battery box if at all feasible since nobody likes to wake up in or return to an RV with no batteries.
You can add third-party locking devices to certain RV battery boxes that already have built-in locking systems.
This kind of RV Battery Lock is the best there is in terms of simplicity.
Your battery box‘s metal brackets wrap around the exterior and, when secured, prevent the lid from opening.
If you use your RV frequently, making the investment in these simple to install gadgets is worthwhile.
As the most of us are aware, batteries can be pricey!
