Security Issues to Consider When Living in a Van
Living in a van can offer the freedom to roam the highways and explore new destinations. But with that freedom comes some risks and security issues, and you should be aware of them before you hit the road.
For starters, if you have a van it could be seen as a more attractive target for criminals. It's important that you park in secure, well-lit areas and don’t stay in any one place for too long. Parkers should also take strong deterrents, such as security locks, extra door locks, and an alarm system, to protect their van from being broken into.
You should also be aware of your personal safety. While it might seem like a great way to save money, you should carefully consider how safe you feel about any areas you decide to park in. Be especially mindful of any strange people or cars that might appear to be loitering or suspiciously lingering nearby. If you ever feel unsafe, it’s best to leave the area.
When you’re looking for a place to park for the night, you should research if it’s a safe area. Places like campgrounds may have better security or more assurances of safety than a quiet street or park. Try to park in spots with a lot of visibility, so people walking by can see you and potential criminals are less likely to target you. For peace of mind, you may want to look into joining a membership program like Harvest Hosts or RVezy to ensure you have vetted and secured parking locations.
It might be worth investing in a locking hood cable to protect your van’s engine from being tampered with. Keeping your windows closed and locked when you’re not in the van can also provide protection from a break-in. Make sure you also have insurance to cover any potential damage or theft.
Finally, while a van is an attractive target for criminals, it also stands out to law enforcement — so make sure you’re abiding by local rules and regulations. Be mindful of local laws and ordinances that dictate where you’re allowed to park, as well as the dates and duration for which you can stay in one place if the regulations exist. This will lessen the chances that you’ll be spotted and hassled by police officers.
Living in a van frequently requires making informed decisions and having the right security measures in place. When you’re living in a van, it’s important to take steps to protect not only your property but also your physical safety. By understanding the risks and taking the right protective measures, you can ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable van-dwelling experience.