Many folks want to give the Mobile home Life a try but are concerned about basic issues like safety. Unfortunately, when you see an RV or camper in the movies or on TV, the bad guy tears open the locked door with just a hard, sharp pull. That is far from the truth. The locks on your RV can be just as safe and secure as on your main home.

If you start a search for an RV door lock, the first thing you’ll notice is how many options you have. There are the traditional key locks, but many companies now produce options with a keypad. A few models even sport a keyless entry option with a fob, just like on many of today’s automobiles, SUVs, and trucks.

When it comes to choosing one, look at the Keyless RV door lock reviews for each brand and model. To avoid the paid reviews, remember to look for the words “Verified Purchase.” It’s not a 100% guarantee that the individual is honest, but at least you know they liked it well enough to spend money on it. If you visit a site that does not track purchases, follow the reviewer’s social media if it's available. In addition to seeing the door lock in place, you can also check out their choices for other RV features like microwave ovens, refrigerators, and other appliances.

OK, let’s review your situation and options. Everyone loses keys, and even a reasonable locksmith can charge you more than what a replacement lock costs. In some cases, a replacement for a standard paddle lock is less than $25 (not counting shipping) and should take you about an hour to complete the task.

If you have just purchased a new or used RV, and don’t like the door lock that came with it, upgrading is always an option. While paddle locks are very functional, secure, and provide a solid grip, not everyone likes the appearance. A lock that sits flush with the surface of the door is a little more expensive, but it is worth it for the appearance. Also, in cold or bad weather, nearly every RV owner has snagged a sweater or coat sleeve on that paddle.

A basic lock like this can run anywhere from $30 to $40. If you want the option of a deadbolt, the price increases around five to ten dollars, depending on the model. For a stronger model that is harder to get around, the price can go up to about $100.

Now, what if you lose another key, lock it inside the RV, or break one off in the door? Everyone in our community has heard about this problem or accidentally done it themselves. Fortunately, with an RV, there is usually someone inside the vehicle to open the door when it happens. The exception being when it happens in your driveway while cleaning up after a trip.

All three of these issues are why many travelers decide to install or have installed, a keypad lock on their RV. These new keyless entry models start at just over $100 and can run up to about $240, depending on what features you might want to help protect your RV.

One of the optional features with a keyless model is an entry fob. Reviewers who enjoyed this option find it very useful to unlock the door for someone to get into the RV without having to step away from an outdoor grill to punch in the number or take the risk of saying the keypad combination out loud where anyone nearby might hear it.

No matter which type of lock you purchase, the safest choice is to pick one with a deadbolt. Every brand of RV door lock offers a model with one built in or has the option of buying a separate deadbolt for use when everyone is inside for the night. If you are buying a new RV, and deciding which options to invest in, always start with keeping your family and property safe. Factory installation is always more cost-efficient than paying for it as an after-market decision.

No one has ever decided to downgrade the safety options on their RV after purchasing it, so make the best choice possible for your new home on wheels, regardless if it is out of the factory, or just new to you.