7 Best Locks for Secure RV Parcel Boxes That Nomads Swear By
Secure your RV parcel box with a nomad-approved lock. We review 7 top options, comparing their durability, weather resistance, and anti-theft features.
You pull into the campground after a long day of driving, excited to finally get that package you ordered a week ago. But the camp office is closed, and the delivery driver left your box sitting on the picnic table. Or worse, it’s not there at all. This is the reality of nomadic life; securing your mail and packages is a constant logistical puzzle that requires a dedicated, secure parcel box. And that box is only as good as the lock you put on it.
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Why Standard RV Locks Just Don’t Cut It
Let’s be blunt: the lock that came on your RV’s storage bay is basically for decoration. Most manufacturers use the same few key patterns, most famously the CH751 key. This means your neighbor at the campground can likely open your compartment with their key, and so can anyone who’s ever owned an RV.
These standard cam locks are also incredibly easy to force. A simple screwdriver is often enough to pry one open in seconds. When you install a parcel box on your rig, you’re advertising that something of value gets delivered there. Using a flimsy, universal lock on it is like putting a "please steal me" sign on your deliveries. It’s the first thing you should upgrade for real peace of mind.
FJM Combi-Cam E-Series: Keyless Electronic Pick
The FJM Combi-Cam E-Series is a fantastic step up into the world of keyless convenience. It replaces a standard cam lock directly, fitting into the same hole with minimal fuss. Instead of a key, you get a simple electronic keypad where you can set your own user code.
The real advantage here is flexibility. You can program a temporary code for a delivery driver or a camp host if you’re away, then delete it later. It offers a great blend of modern convenience and decent security. The main tradeoff is its reliance on batteries. While they last a long time and there’s a low-battery indicator, it’s one more thing to monitor. Still, for those who hate fumbling for keys, it’s a clean and effective solution.
ABUS Diskus 24/70: Ultimate Cut-Proof Security
When you see an ABUS Diskus lock, you know its owner isn’t messing around. Its unique circular design, made from hardened stainless steel, leaves almost none of the shackle exposed. This makes it nearly impossible for a thief to get a pair of bolt cutters on it—the most common method of brute-force attack.
This is a padlock, so your parcel box will need a sturdy hasp to accommodate it. But that small modification is worth it for the sheer physical intimidation this lock provides. It’s built to withstand not just attacks, but also the elements, making it perfect for an exterior-mounted box that sees rain, dust, and sun. If your primary concern is preventing a brute-force break-in, the Diskus is one of the toughest contenders out there. It’s pure, unapologetic mechanical security.
Master Lock 1500D: A Simple, Reliable Classic
Sometimes, the best solution is the one you already know. The classic Master Lock 1500D—the same one you probably had on your high school locker—is a surprisingly effective and budget-friendly choice. It’s a significant upgrade from a standard RV cam lock without adding any complexity.
There are no batteries to die and no keys to lose. Its simple, reliable combination mechanism has been proven for decades. While it’s not a high-security lock that will stop a determined, tool-wielding thief, it’s more than enough to deter a casual opportunist. For many nomads, this is the sweet spot: better security, zero hassle, and low cost. It’s a practical deterrent that gets the job done without breaking the bank.
PACLOCK UCS-1A: The High-Security Puck Lock
If the ABUS Diskus is tough, the PACLOCK UCS-1A is its American-made, high-security cousin. Puck locks are designed with one principle in mind: leave nothing for a thief to grab. The entire lock body shields the shackle, which is just a solid bolt that slides through the hasp. There is simply no way to cut it.
PACLOCK is known for its tight manufacturing tolerances and pick-resistant keyways, making it a formidable challenge for both brute force and skilled attacks. Like the Diskus, it requires a specific style of hasp, but the security it provides is top-tier. This is the lock for people who receive expensive equipment or medication and cannot afford any compromise. It’s an investment in absolute security, built to withstand serious abuse.
Schlage BE365: Heavy-Duty Keypad Deadbolt
Enjoy keyless entry with the Schlage Camelot Keypad Deadbolt. Easily program up to 19 user codes for trusted access, and the illuminated keypad ensures visibility at night.
For those building a robust, custom parcel box, a residential-style deadbolt offers a level of security that most other options can’t match. The Schlage BE365 is a commercial-grade keypad deadbolt that brings home-level security to your rig. It’s heavy, durable, and features a real, hardened steel bolt that throws deep into the frame of your box.
This is not a simple swap-out. It requires a thicker door and a proper frame to be installed correctly, making it more of a mini-project. But the payoff is immense. You get the convenience of a keypad with the proven strength of a deadbolt. It feels more like a small safe than a simple lockbox. For full-timers or those with very high-value deliveries, integrating a Schlage deadbolt is a serious security statement.
Combi-Cam 7850R-S: Battery-Free Combination
The Combi-Cam 7850R-S is the perfect middle ground between a basic keyed lock and a battery-powered electronic one. It’s a direct replacement for a standard cam lock, but instead of a key, it features a three-dial combination mechanism. It gives you keyless convenience without the worry of dead batteries.
This is my go-to recommendation for people who want a simple, reliable upgrade. The installation takes five minutes, and once you set the combination, you’re done. It’s durable, weather-resistant, and provides a solid security boost. You trade the flexibility of temporary electronic codes for the absolute dependability of a mechanical lock. For the full-time boondocker who values simplicity and reliability above all else, this is often the smartest choice.
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock: The High-Tech Choice
For the tech-savvy nomad who stays in well-connected areas, the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is the ultimate solution. This lock allows you to grant access and lock or unlock your parcel box from anywhere in the world using your smartphone. You can see a log of who accessed it and when, and even unlock it for a delivery driver the moment they arrive.
However, this convenience comes with significant dependencies. The August lock requires a constant power source and, more importantly, a stable Wi-Fi connection to work remotely. This makes it an excellent choice for RVers in long-term parks with reliable internet, but a non-starter for those who spend their time off-grid. It’s a powerful tool, but only for a specific style of travel where connectivity is a given.
Ultimately, securing your packages on the road is about matching your lock to your lifestyle. The best lock isn’t the most expensive or complex one; it’s the one that reliably protects your deliveries within the context of how you travel. Whether it’s a simple mechanical Combi-Cam for off-grid peace of mind or a smart lock for remote management, choosing the right hardware means one less thing to worry about so you can focus on the road ahead.
