Gun Ownership While RVing

Taking your gun RVing or even bringing more than one firearm in your RV is not uncommon. Knowing the laws for each state you visit is imperative and approaching travel with firearms from an educated standpoint is useful. Carrying firearms safely offers a layer of personal protection and it can also open recreational hunting opportunities for small game, big game and birds.

Protect Your Guns

The first and most important step for RVers carrying firearms is storage and safety. If you have a hunting rifle or shotgun, storing the long barrel firearm safely is more difficult. Bolting a safe to the floor or building a secret compartment beneath the bed or couch is a good idea. You want the firearms stored out of sight. If a potential burglar peeks through the window and spots the firearms while you are shopping or out and about, they might break-in just to steal the high value gun.

Handguns are a more common form of firearm carried by RV owners and they are typically intended for protection against intruders and even wildlife. If you spend time camping in remote areas, carrying a firearm is not a bad idea. You are exposed and vulnerable and there is no reason to not protect yourself. Hopefully you never need the firearm but having a handgun safely stored in a locked box or small safe keeps the gun protected. Make sure it is easy to access when needed however. You might leave the handgun hidden but accessible while sleeping and store it in the safe while driving.

When using a safe to store your gun, make sure the safe itself is not an easy thing to steal. Bolt it to the chassis and make it impossible to quickly remove the safe from the camper. You can use the safe for firearms and all other valuables as well. It really comes in handy.

Related Read: RV Security: Protect Your Family and Your RV

Know the State Laws

Every state has a different set of laws for gun ownership. In some states, you can open carry, others have concealed carry permits and every state runs a federal background check when you purchase a firearm. Your firearm permit may also have reciprocity across multiple states.

Legally owning a firearm and traveling with one are two very different things. Legal ownership in your home state is easy. You learn the local laws, store the firearm safely and use it locally at ranges or hunting areas. Traveling adds a new dynamic every time you cross a state border.

Numerous firearm owners traveling by RV will simply carry their handgun across state lines while keeping it hidden. Others will carry through states with reciprocity and mail the firearm across states without reciprocity. The best approach here is determining your route in advance to plan ahead. If the route crosses multiple state lines where your permit is not valid, consider leaving the firearm behind. This typically applies to carrying a handgun or assault rifle, especially if that gun is located on your body and is loaded. Unloading and storing firearms for travel is normal, especially when the intended purpose is hunting.

Campground Specific Rules

Beyond state carry laws, individual campgrounds may also impose strict rules regarding firearms. National Parks are very strict as well and they operate under federal laws. This means carrying a firearm that is legal within the state may not be allowed within the national park.

Always do your homework regarding campsites, parks and other places you intend to visit. Knowing the rules and firearm laws is imperative to prevent legal troubles while touring in your RV.

Alternative Options

Sometimes, it’s just easier to leave the handgun behind. This is especially true when you plan to cross through numerous states on a long-term trip. Carrying a firearm illegally comes with serious legal consequences and you can remain safe while avoiding trouble.

Related Read: Avoiding Theft While RVing

Alternative forms of protection can save the day without ever calling for a gun to be drawn. A noticeable and loud security system on your RV will deter thieves in urban areas where the alarm draws attention.

Pepper spray and tasers are also great forms of personal protection. They do not require the handling skills and accuracy associated with firearms. Carrying a handgun without the knowledge and skills required to effectively use the weapon places the user at a disadvantage. A high charge stream of pepper spray however is simple and highly effective.

Pepper spray is also made specifically for bears. A can of bear spray is effective against predators in the backcountry and it can double as a self-defense tool while out exploring or spending time in your RV.