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The Best Trailer Hitch Locks To Guard Your Trailers Against Theft
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RV camping trips in the wilderness can be fun and exciting. That is, they can be if you get to keep your caravan in one piece. Stolen trailers are a rising concern for some campers. Imagine coming back to your RV after a full day of hiking to find your trailer and supplies missing. Losing precious belongings and resources that could’ve lasted you for days in the wild is a dangerous thing to risk out in the wilderness, and finding your lost trailer in the middle of nowhere may prove impossible.
To avoid this worst-case scenario, stay protected with a trailer hitch lock. Hitch locks are designed to protect your trailer safe from potential theft by keeping it secured to another vehicle. Buying a trailer hitch lock is the best investment you can make to stay safe on your next outdoor trip. A simple lock can even save you the money you’d otherwise spend replacing your belongings.
Looking to buy a sturdy and reliable hitch lock for your next outdoor trip? This blog lists our top choices for five foolproof trailer hitch locks you can depend on. These are the first-rate trailer hitch locks of 2023!
Buyer’s Guide to Finding a Trailer Hitch Lock
Camping trips can quickly go from being fun and exciting to gloomy when you lose a trailer and your important supplies with it. Getting your trailer secured is the only way to stay safe on your next outing, and the best way to do that is by purchasing a trailer hitch lock.Even though the primary purpose of hitch locks is to protect your trailer and camping gear, there’s a lot of consideration that goes into finding a lock that fulfills its purpose. Apart from seeking the right features, you should also focus on your requirements. This buyer’s guide details everything you need to know about trailer hitch locks to help you make the best purchase decision.
Features to Look for in a Trailer Hitch Lock
Whether you go out shopping in the auto store or browse hitch locks online, here are some features you should ultimately focus on:
Locking mechanism
Since security is the biggest reason for buying a trailer hitch lock, the locking system is the first thing you need to consider. To make sure the trailer is kept out of harm’s way, the coupler lock must be impenetrable by means including prying and picking.While a key locking system is standard in every hitch lock, having either a code combination or barbell lock on top can help if you are intending to explore isolated areas. If you are set to visit a popular camping spot, however, having a push-on lock with key access may suffice.
Design compatibility
Purchasing a high-end hitch lock with a state-of-the-art locking mechanism will be no use if the design is incompatible with your trailer tongue and coupler. Most hitch locks are mainly categorized as either universal or deadbolt.Universal locks, as the name suggests, are adaptable and versatile with sizes ranging between 1-⅞ inches and 2-5/16 inches. This makes them compatible with trailers and pickup trucks with a range of coupler shapes and styles. These locks function through the use of a sturdy metal ball that fits into the coupler hole while the bridge on top secures the junction.Deadbolt locks, on the other hand, contain sturdy metal hitch pins that are inserted in the coupler holes. Compared to universal hitch locks, deadbolts provide a more secure fitting for RVs. Since most RV hitches have varying dimensions, make sure to purchase a hitch lock that fits your own.
Material
Although the quality of locks plays an effective role in safeguarding your trailer, they will be of no use if the lock is made from flimsy materials. Not every thief is delicate enough to pick locks, some prefer the hard way of breaking the lock altogether.The lock you choose should be built of sturdy aluminum, cast iron, or stainless steel that can take a beating. While you’re at it, look for a product that’s treated with an anti-corrosive material to make the trailer hitch lock more durable.
Factors to Consider for the Right Trailer Lock
While you are shortlisting products based on features, selecting the perfect hitch lock means considering what you will be using the hitch lock for. What are your towing needs? What is the coupler size of your vehicle? And how often do you hitch trailers? Let’s figure it all out in this section.
Identifying the correct size
The first step towards making the right purchase is knowing the size of the vehicle coupler and trailer tongue. The hitch lock size should match the trailer coupler size for a secure and reliable fit.Identify the opening length of the receiver tube along with the trailer ball size. Measure the diameter of the hole punched in the coupler, especially if you drive an RV. These measurements will help you buy a suitable hitch lock.
How often do you tow?
If you are a traveler who’s always on the move, locking and unlocking hitch locks time after time can be a bother, especially if you are using a lock with an advanced locking mechanism. If you are mostly staying on paved road networks, you may not need the extra safety when hitch pins can suffice.Don’t want to take any chances with your trailer? Then get something with a streamlined locking and unlocking system that doesn’t cost you time or effort in the process. If you set out on a camping trip every season, choosing a sophisticated and durable trailer hitch lock would be a great option.
When do you need a trailer hitch lock?
The purpose of your trip will help you determine whether you’ll be leaving your RV or trailer unattended. In simple terms, if you have a passion for hiking or camping, you will need to leave your RV behind for hours at stretch. Leaving your trailer and camping gear behind without supervision is something you don’t want to gamble on.It is a good idea to choose a sturdy safety lock like an over-lip trailer hitch lock to give you much-needed peace of mind on all of your adventures. Nevertheless, if you intend to take a short break somewhere or camp overnight near your RV, a simple latch-style lock will get the job done.If, on the other hand, you are searching for a lock for a trailer that will mostly stay parked in a garage or parking lot, the strength and longevity of the lock would matter most. Although garages and parking lots don’t have security concerns, extreme weather conditions may be more of an issue than unwanted robberies. Make sure to buy a heavy-duty chrome-plated coupler lock that can survive against extreme weather elements, including sunlight, UV rays, sleet, road grime, rain, and snow.
Conclusion
Before setting off on your next camping trip, give some thought to improving the safety and security of your trailer. Getting your trailer stolen in the middle of nowhere can jeopardize the entire trip. It is wiser to spend your money on a reliable and effective trailer hitch lock that safeguards your trailer than to risk your and your travel buddies’ safety.After reviewing an extensive variety of safety locks, we have shortlisted the five best trailer hitch locks for you to buy before beginning this year’s trip. The buyer’s guide can also equip you with the knowledge to ensure you are making the right decision.
Top Picks
Best Overall:
Tevlaphee Universal Trailer Ball Tow
Unique Design:
Master Lock Trailer Hitch Lock
Premium Option:
Amplock U-Brp2516 Trailer Lock
Highest-Rated:
Reese Towpower 72783 Coupler Lock
Affordable Option:
Czc Auto Hitch Coupler Lock
Reviews
Best Overall
Tevlaphee Universal Trailer Ball Tow
Pros
Cons
Sturdy metal construction with anti-corrosive surface
Each hitch lock has a different installation mechanism. In most cases, place the circular top inside the drilled hole of the trailer coupler, and close the latch on top with a simple push-in mechanism.
Is it okay to drive when the hitch lock is installed?
Driving while the hitch lock is in place is prohibited because the lock can endanger yourself and others on the roadway. Only install the lock when you park the vehicle.
What is the best material for a hitch lock?
Most premium quality hitch locks are constructed with stainless steel, aluminum, and cast iron. These models also have an anti-corrosive coating on top for longevity.
