18 replies to this topic

[Bosque Bill]

Seems to me if one were to leave camp unattended for a day-long hike in a lonely campground or while boondocking, the camper would be slightly more secure against break-in (or vandalism) with the top in the lower position. I realize it wouldn't take all that much to smash in the side window, but still the vinyl side material seems ripe for mischief.

Or am I being paranoid? (Probably, yes.)

[Espresso]

I think a thief would be more likely to break the back window and unlock the door from the inside. The only reason I could envision for cutting the fabric would be to make less noise. One thing for sure, if they want to get in and the top is down, they'll definitely break a window. Just like a house, if they want to get in, they will. If you're that worried about it, install an alarm.

I've never had anything stolen while camping. I'm curious about other's. Also, maybe someone associated with Four Wheel or ATC can let us know if they've ever repaired the fabric that was cut during an act of theft or vandalism.

[Overland Hadley]

Also, maybe someone associated with Four Wheel or ATC can let us know if they've ever repaired the fabric that was cut during an act of theft or vandalism.

That would be interesting to know. Hopefully somebody will chime in.

[ski3pin]

Seems to me if one were to leave camp unattended for a day-long hike in a lonely campground or while boondocking..............................

It is in these situations and areas we feel safest.

I've never had anything stolen while camping. I'm curious about other's. Also, maybe someone associated with Four Wheel or ATC can let us know if they've ever repaired the fabric that was cut during an act of theft or vandalism.

Most thefts that we've seen are at busy trailheads where people are coming and going and items are left in view.

That would be interesting to know.

We agree.

Each of us need to make our own decision on precautions to take. Information from others and building up our own experience base helps.

Thanks for bringing this up Mr. Bill as we are asked this question by other pop up cultists when we travel.

[Lighthawk]

I worry more about bear breaking in than humans in many places we go.

There was a thread a while back discussing which is more secure, camper or truck cab.
Sometimes when we are making quick stops for hikes at more populated trail heads I am concerned.
I've recently worked out lockable storage in my truck cab.

I suspect if someone really is going to break in they will prefer the door, with a familiar lock, compared to the awkwardly high liner.
But that's just a guess.

[pods8]

Dunno about on tacoma's and such my the liner on my dodge 2500 didn't start till something like 7' in the air. Seems like it'd be a PITA to try and cut/climb through that...

[ATCJeff]

I think a thief would be more likely to break the back window and unlock the door from the inside. The only reason I could envision for cutting the fabric would be to make less noise. One thing for sure, if they want to get in and the top is down, they'll definitely break a window. Just like a house, if they want to get in, they will. If you're that worried about it, install an alarm.

I've never had anything stolen while camping. I'm curious about other's. Also, maybe someone associated with Four Wheel or ATC can let us know if they've ever repaired the fabric that was cut during an act of theft or vandalism.

In the 35 years I've been building and repairing both ATC and FWC I've never seen or heard of a sideliner being cut or damaged due to vandalism

[ski3pin]

In the 35 years I've been building and repairing both ATC and FWC I've never seen or heard of a sideliner being cut or damaged due to vandalism

Thanks Jeff!

[Casa Escarlata Robles Too]

Just like your house,if you make less inviting to break in the better.Don't leave valuable items within sight.I don't even leave the rear steps out if I am waay for a long time.Why give someone the opportunity.
I am not paranoid just want to have a nice trip with as few problems as possible.

As for dropping the top while away,there are some camping places that suggest/require this.
I think the Teklinika campground in Denali is one.At least that was the rumor I heard while there.Since I was going to be away for a long part of the day while I camped in Denali I always dropped the top,just to play it safe.
Frank

[LT Traveler]

I try not to worry about stuff like this. Going on vacation we try to leave the house locked and a porch light on, If we worried too much we'd never leave the house. When leaving the camper we leave the curtains drawn, door locked and outside stuff consolidated. Once again, if we were always worried about it we wouldn't have any fun and we wouldn't explore beyond the camp site. Dropping and raising the top all the time once camped would be a pain in the ass. What will be will be, regardless of your efforts. Go have fun and don't worry about it would be my recommendation.