GPS Tracking Devices for RV Theft Prevention

RV theft has become an increasing concern for RV owners across the country. With RVs costing an average of $75,000 and customized RVs going for over $500,000, RV theft can have devastating financial consequences. Unfortunately, RVs are targets for thieves as they are valuable and often left unattended for long periods.

The good news is that there are measures RV owners can take to prevent theft. One of the most effective theft deterrents and recovery methods is installing a GPS tracking device in your RV. GPS trackers allow you to monitor your RV’s location in real-time and receive alerts if your RV is moved or enters a geo-fenced area. With the ability to track down your RV quickly, GPS tracking greatly increases the chance of recovering a stolen RV.

What are the Features of GPS Tracking Devices for RVs

GPS trackers are invaluable tools for RV asset protection and recovery due to the array of security and monitoring features they offer. But how exactly does the technology work and what capabilities can you expect from RV-optimized GPS tracking systems?

GPS trackers utilize global positioning system satellites that orbit the Earth to pinpoint geographic locations. The tracking device picks up signals from multiple satellites to determine their precise real-time coordinates. This data is then sent via cellular networks to a central server and interface that the owner can access.

Cutting-edge RV GPS trackers offer an impressive suite of features that enable robust, customizable security protections for your motorhome or trailer. Here are some of the most important capabilities to look for:

Real-Time Tracking, The core functionality of any GPS tracker is showing an asset’s location in real-time. RV owners can pull up a map on desktop or mobile to see exactly where their RV is located at any given moment. Historical location data and trip replays are also viewable.

Geo-Fencing, Geo-fences are virtual boundaries you can set up in the tracker software that will trigger alerts when crossed. If the RV moves outside of pre-approved locations or zones, you will be instantly notified of the breach via text, email, or push notification.

Battery Life & Power Management, Since the tracker relies on battery power, multi-month battery life and alerts for low battery are crucial. Advanced power management ensures tracking continuity if the RV battery is disconnected. Hardwired power kits are recommended for optimal uptime.

Smartphone App Integration, Convenient companion apps allow you to access your tracker’s capabilities right from your iOS or Android device. Manage alerts, check location, toggle tracker modes, and more all on the go.

Popular GPS Tracking Devices for RVs

Hundreds of GPS trackers are on the market, but not all are ideal for RVs. These devices stand out with specialized features tailored to the size, power constraints, and security requirements of RVs.

1. Solar Magnetic GPS Tracker

This compact, solar-powered GPS tracker clips onto your RV and links to software on your phone or computer to show your vehicle’s location. It runs for 4-5 months on a charge and uses 4G LTE and 2G networks to provide positioning. However, service may be lost in areas without connectivity. There are no commitments – you can pay monthly and suspend service when not in use.

2. CalAmp Trailer GPS Unit

This large GPS tracker provides service for 3 years with a 5-year battery life, with no monthly fees required. You get a daily SMS or app location update, upgradable to 2x daily updates if it’s stolen. It works globally, even without cell service, thanks to top-notch customer support. Installation is easy with its magnets, bolts, or adhesive.

3. Trackimo 2021 Model

Similar in size to a matchbox, this feature-packed GPS tracker utilizes various location technologies for precise positioning internationally. Easy to use app lets you set geofences, and overspeed alerts and get updates from daily to real-time minute-by-minute tracking. Battery life ranges from 30 days to 3 days depending on update frequency. Recharging by USB is simple.

4. Reiwour 4G GPS

No monthly fees come with this convenient matchbox-sized GPS that sticks to your RV via built-in magnets. The app enables real-time tracking, speed, and geo-fences. Get updates as frequently as every 30 seconds. The downside is it relies on 4G, so loses accuracy out of range, with battery life lasting 7-30 days on a charge.

5. Amcrest GL300

Affordable and ultra-portable, this real-time GPS tracker comes in a waterproof case that can be magnet-mounted. No commitments – turn on/off at any time. Provides updates as often as every 15 seconds within the US, Canada, and Mexico but loses accuracy outside mobile coverage. Battery lasts 10-14 days depending on settings.

Besides this, you will find other GPS trackers like the OBDII GPS Tracker that need power from the RV to work. Moreover, this kind of tracker can be located quite easily. That’s why it’s suggested to go for either solar-powered or battery-powered devices. 

Considerations When Choosing a GPS Tracking Device

It’s important to weigh a multitude of factors when selecting GPS trackers for your RV to ensure the devices suit both your rig’s technical specifications and your budget/features wish list.

Subscription Costs and Plans

Most RV GPS trackers utilize wireless networks for sending location data, resulting in an ongoing service plan subscription. Costs range from $15-50/month. Features like historical tracking length, geofences allowed, and alert numbers vary across plans – select sufficient levels for your coverage needs. Some devices charge extra for SIM cards. Upfront hardware fees range from $100-$200+.

User-Friendly Interface

An intuitive, appealing software interface with interactive mapping makes accessing your tracker’s data and features effortless. Well-designed smartphone apps are also essential for convenience.

Customer Support & Warranty

Find a tracker provider with robust customer support channels like live chat, email ticketing, online knowledge bases, and thorough setup instructions to resolve any issues promptly. Warranties of 1-2+ years provide assurance as well.

Steps for Installing a GPS Tracker

Installing your RV GPS tracker properly is vital for functionality and security. What steps should you take to integrate your tracker into your RV systems?

Step 1 – Choose a location for the GPS tracker:

The best location for the GPS tracker is one that is hidden from view but still has a clear view of the sky. This will help to ensure that the tracker can receive a strong GPS signal. Some common locations for GPS trackers on RVs include:

• Under the RV’s bumper
• Inside the RV’s propane tank compartment
• Under the RV’s dash

Step 2 – Mount the GPS tracker

1. Use the mounting hardware to secure the GPS tracker to the chosen location.
2. If the tracker requires hardwiring, connect it to the RV’s electrical system according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
3. Be sure to use weatherproof connectors to protect the wires from the elements.

Step 3 – Activate the GPS tracker:

1. Create an account with the GPS tracker’s service provider.
2. Enter the tracker’s serial number and other required information.
3. Select a subscription plan.
4. Activate the tracker.

Step 4 – Test the GPS tracker:

1. Once the tracker is activated, test it to make sure it is working properly.
2. Move the RV around and check to see if the tracker is updating the RV’s location on the map.

End Notes

Installing covert GPS trackers specially engineered for RVs can provide invaluable protection against theft. State-of-the-art trackers deliver features like real-time monitoring, geo-fencing, in-depth alerts, and vehicle disabling to maximize security.

Finding options that balance advanced functionality with a design suited for RV technical constraints results in impactful, seamless protection. Combined with sufficient cellular data plans and responsive customer service, RV GPS trackers enable owners to protect their prized investments against this fast-growing threat. Suppose, you are from Texas or California, then you must know that these two states are the top 2 states where RV theft is occurred. According to research by rvtravel.com, the amount of stolen RVs in Texas is 25, and 14 in California. So, if you belong from there, then it’s high time to hook up your RV with a guardian angel, GPS!