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How to Achieve Greater Trailer Security

7 Steps to Secure Your Trailer against Theft

Out on the open road, the last thing you want is to have your cargo – or worse, your entire trailer – stolen. It’s up to you to make sure your items, vehicle and trailer are secure for the adventure ahead.

In this guide, we will discuss the best way to lock a trailer and achieve greater trailer security. From hooking up to parking your trailer long-term, preventing theft starts by being prepared.

Step 1: Invest in a Quality Trailer Lock

One of the best ways to keep your trailer secure is with a quality trailer lock . Because your trailer will spend a considerable amount of time parked by itself and left unattended, you need to make sure someone can't easily drive up and tow it away.

A trailer lock is designed to install in or over the trailer tongue, preventing a hitch ball from being inserted. With the trailer tongue blocked and locked up with a key, a potential thief will have a difficult time lowering the coupler onto their ball mount.

Some trailer locks are also multi-functional, allowing you to secure the coupler latch as well, whether the trailer is parked out or hitched up to your vehicle.

Step 2: Install Your Ball Mount with a Hitch Lock

The first step of hooking up any trailer is to install a ball mount into the receiver tube of your trailer hitch . However, to achieve greater trailer security, you must understand how to lock a trailer. Instead of using a hitch pin, install the ball mount with a hitch lock .

Slide the ball mount into place, line up the holes in the shank and receiver tube, and insert the hitch lock pin through both holes. Then, apply the key-operated cap, cylinder or padlock.

Bonus step : For added trailer security and stability, we recommend using an anti-rattle hitch lock . Not only does this locking device keep your ball mount under lock and key, it also helps prevent the shank from rattling in the receiver tube.

Step 3: Secure the Latch with a Coupler Lock

Couple your trailer to your vehicle, following the standard trailer hookup process .

Engaging the trailer coupler is a key part of that process. However, when your goal is maximum trailer security, it’s worth mentioning how the coupler should be engaged.

After the coupler latching mechanism has been engaged with the trailer ball, install a coupler lock. A trailer coupler lock has a pin that passes through the latch to prevent it from being engaged or disengaged.

Insert the locking pin and then secure the lock cylinder or padlock.

Step 3: Place Spare Keys in a Secure Location

With both the hitch lock and coupler lock installed on your towing setup, make sure you place the primary key and spare key in safe spots.

We recommend keeping the primary key on your keychain with your car keys and kept in your pocket. This way, you will always know where they’re located and they’ll always be on hand, ready for use.

For the spare key, consider storing it in your glovebox. It’s important to keep it accessible but not easily found by prying eyes. You may also wish to invest in a magnetic key box that can be hidden somewhere on the underbody of your vehicle.

Keeping the spare key with the trailer is not advised because you may forget to retrieve it after the trailer is parked, leaving it exposed to theft.

Helpful Hint : All CURT hitch locks, coupler locks and trailer locks come with spare keys. You can store the spare in a safe place or give it to a friend for safe keeping.

Step 4: Install Straps or Chains over Your Trailer

With your trailer hooked up, locks in place and loaded with cargo, it’s time to secure that cargo with tie downs. You can use cargo straps to simply keep items from moving around during travel, or you can tie everything down with binder chains or safety chains .

For some cargo, chains may be excessive. But for expensive machinery, equipment or supplies in an open trailer, chains may be exactly what your towing setup needs.

Make sure the straps or chains are taut without crushing the cargo and that they are tied down to solid anchoring points .

Step 5: Drive Safely & Protect Your Trailer Along the Way

With your trailer locked on and your cargo tied down, drive to your destination following all rules of traffic and guidelines for towing a trailer .

If you’re only travelling a short distance without stopping, no additional security will be needed. If you’re traveling a greater distance or planning to make any stops along the way, be sure to park your vehicle and trailer in plain view, and if it’s nighttime, park under a street lamp or other light source. Keep your vehicle locked and your keys on your person at all times.

Making stops along the way is also a perfect opportunity to check your vehicle-trailer connection and any cargo you’re hauling. If you need to uncouple and leave your trailer parked for any amount of time, be sure to protect it with a trailer lock .

Bonus Step : For an added measure of security while your trailer is parked and left unattended, you can invest in a wheel chock lock . This type of lock clamps onto the trailer wheel and provides yet another obstacle for determined thieves.

A wheel chock lock is also a great security measure for your trailer when it is parked and not being used over extended periods of time.

Step 7: Keep Your Hitch Lock with Your Ball Mount

After you’ve finished towing and your trailer is uncoupled and parked, make sure you remove the ball mount from your receiver hitch. This will keep it protected from the elements and safe from potential theft.

Remove the hitch lock using the key, and then remove the ball mount. Insert the hitch locking pin back through the ball mount shank and secure it once more with the lock cylinder. Keeping your towing equipment together like this will help prevent lost pieces. Find a safe, dry location to store your ball mount, such as a compartment at the back of the vehicle.

Shop CURT towing accessories pouch

Additional Towing Security Measures

Spare tire lock

Now that you know how to lock a trailer and vehicle for towing, let’s discuss some added measures. If your trailer or vehicle has a spare tire mounted on it, consider buying a spare tire lock. This simple, subtle lock can be installed over one of the wheel bolts, keeping the tire secured to the vehicle under lock and key.

Shop spare tire lock

Trailer tongue box

A trailer tongue box is simply a storage box that mounts onto the front portion of your trailer’s frame. This tool box can be used to store essential towing equipment and to keep accessories on-hand. Best of all, trailer tongue boxes have an integrated locking latch, promoting theft resistance for your items.

Shop trailer tongue boxes

Cable lock for bikes

If you’re towing a bike rack with or without a trailer, a cable lock is recommended to protect the bikes. First, install a hitch lock to keep the bike rack fully secure in the receiver. Then, install the bike lock whenever your bikes are hung on the rack.

Shop cable bike lock

Cargo bag with lock for cargo carriers

If you’re hauling a hitch cargo carrier along with your trailer or just by itself, you can add security by using a CURT cargo bag. These weather-resistant vinyl bags come with a zipper closure that can accept a padlock. With the zippers pulled together and a padlock installed, your items are kept safe inside and protected from tampering.

Shop cargo bags

One lock for all of your trailers!

The CURT tri-ball universal coupler lock #23082 is the ultimate in trailer tongue security, featuring a triple ball insert that fits 1-7/8", 2" and 2-5/16" couplers. The lock can be used while towing or while your trailer is parked, and it has built-in safety points to greatly deter theft and tampering.

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How to Lock a Trailer Hitch and Prevent Theft

Whether you've had a trailer for years or you've just gotten one recently, we can bet that you worry about it at times. After all, trailers get stolen every single day, and no one can be expected to watch theirs around the clock. How do you ensure that your trailer stays right where you want it? The answer is simple — just use a trailer hitch lock pin.

If you've gone through the steps of securely hitching your trailer to your vehicle, you're already well on the way to security. However, you can never be too careful, and that's why a hitch lock is a welcome solution many people take advantage of.

In this guide, we'll show you that protecting yourself against thieves is as easy as a trip down an open road with your trailer securely in tow. Keep reading to find out how to pick the best trailer hitch lock, how to lock a trailer hitch lock, and as a result, prevent theft!

Step One: Picking the Right Trailer Hitch Lock Pin

Some models of hitch lock pins are really basic and don't provide any real security. Those are the types of locks that later end up on YouTube in one of those "picking a lock in ten seconds" videos. To make things easier for you, we're here to provide a trustworthy solution.

RHINO USA's Locking Trailer Hitch Pin has just about everything you need in a trailer lock. This is a ⅝" locking receiver pin that can be used with Class III and IV hitches (2" x 2"). At Rhino USA, we’re well-known for making some of the best off-road accessories on the market, so this is a solution that is echoed by many satisfied trailer owners (not just us).

What makes this particular product stand out? It's made out of solid forged steel — you can use it to tow trucks, boats, bikes, and of course, trailers. You can trust it to keep your vehicles safe even under extreme conditions thanks to dust, gunk, and mud protection in the form of a weatherproof slide cap. 

Most importantly, RHINO USA's Locking Trailer Hitch Pin has a complex lock that comes with a set of two keys. You can sleep soundly when this locking trailer hitch pin is what stands guard — and with a lifetime warranty, you'll never have to worry about it again.

Step Two: Double-Check Your Trailer

Before attempting to lock a trailer hitch , you should go over the steps you've already gone through in order to tow your trailer. This will ensure that everything is securely in its correct place.

• Check the coupler and make sure that it's tightly locked over the hitch ball.
• Inspect the safety chains. They should be crossed beneath your ball mount. This aids the general safety of your trailer and is not just an anti-theft measure.
• Check the wiring. It should not be running beneath the hitch ball or the coupler. Make sure everything is working properly.

Once you've done the above, move on to the next step.

Step Three: Install the Ball Hitch Receiver

Prior to installing the trailer hitch pin , you need to also install a ball hitch receiver. This is an easy task that shouldn't take more than a few minutes.

• Insert the ball hitch receiver into the trailer hitch .
• Slide the hitch pin through the hole on the side of the receiver.
• Insert the straight leg of the clip into the hitch pin and make sure it's nice and secure.

Step Four: Install the Trailer Hitch Lock Pin

With the ball hitch receiver in place, you're all set to lock your trailer and enjoy your well-deserved peace of mind. Let's break down the steps on how to lock a trailer hitch. 

• Unlock & detach the lock from the body of the lock pin.
• Slide the slim part of the trailer hitch lock through the hole on the side of your ball hitch receiver.
• Once the pin sticks out on the other side, insert it into the lock securely.
• Push the weatherproof sliding cap aside and turn the key to lock your hitch pin.

Never Worry About Your Trailer Again!

Featured product: rhino usa locking trailer hitch pin.

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That's all there is to it! You've now taken a great step towards preventing the theft of your trailer. We hope that our guide has helped you during the process of installing your new locking hitch pin. If you've got questions, feel free to reach out to us at (800) 575-7310 — we will be happy to help you!

Are trailer hitches universal?

There are many different types of trailer hitches, however, most vehicles with a trailer hitch come with the rear receiver hitch which has a common 2" receiver. Other types of trailer hitches include: front mount hitch, 5th wheel hitch, gooseneck hitch, bumper hitch, and more.

How to unlock trailer hitch lock?

Unlocking a trailer hitch lock is simple and involves the following steps:

Locate the Key or Combination: Determine whether your trailer hitch lock uses a key or a combination to unlock it. Rhino USA hitch pin locks come with a key, which is the most common way to lock and unlock your trailer hitch lock.

Insert the Key:  If you have a key-based lock, insert the key into the lock's keyhole (Rhino USA's hitch lock has a keyhole cover which must be moved first). Turn the key in the direction specified in the lock's instructions to unlock it.

Turn or Rotate the Lock: After inserting the key, turn or rotate the lock mechanism as indicated in the lock's instructions. This action should disengage the locking mechanism and allow you to remove the lock.

Remove the Lock: Once the lock is disengaged, carefully remove it from the trailer hitch receiver. Make sure not to force it if it doesn't come off easily; sometimes, a gentle wiggle or slight pressure on the release button may be needed.

Store or Reattach the Lock: Store the unlocked lock in a secure place, or if you're using it for security purposes, reattach it to the trailer hitch receiver once you've finished using it.

Are locking hitch pins safe?

Yes, locking hitch pins, when used properly, can be a safe and effective way to secure your trailer hitch and other accessories. However, it is important to make the following considerations when determining if a locking hitch pin is safe:

Choose a Trusted Brand: Opt for reputable manufacturers like Rhino USA, known for their quality products and commitment to safety standards.  Remember, Rhino USA offers a lifetime warranty on all of our products!

Proper Installation: Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully when installing the locking hitch pin. Ensure it fits snugly and securely in the hitch receiver, leaving no room for movement.

Regular Maintenance: Periodically inspect the locking hitch pin for signs of wear, damage, or rust. Keeping it in good condition is essential for continued safety. 

Secure Your Hitch Accessories: Locking hitch pins are especially useful for securing hitch-mounted accessories like bike racks, cargo carriers, and trailers. When used correctly, they provide an additional layer of protection against theft and accidents.

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6 Best Trailer Hitch Locks to Prevent Trailer Theft in 2024

• Last Updated: March 5, 2024
• 30 minutes read

Securing your trailer is crucial in preventing theft, and finding the best trailer hitch locks is key to peace of mind.

In my quest to ensure the highest level of security for trailers, I’ve rigorously tested over fifteen products, meticulously assessing their durability, ease of use, and theft deterrence capabilities.

Among the myriad of options, the REESE 72783 Universal Coupler Heavy-Duty Lock stood out as the best overall.

Its robust design, universal fit, and exceptional resistance to picking and prying define it as the premier choice for safeguarding any trailer.

Trust in these insights comes from firsthand usage and thorough testing, ensuring that you’re getting expert recommendations truly capable of meeting the critical demand for top-notch trailer security.

Based on my experience, the top trailer hitch locks are:

• REESE 72783 Universal Coupler Heavy-Duty Lock: Best overall for universal fit and heavy-duty security.
• Master Lock 389DAT Universal Size Trailer Lock: Excellent for versatile use with an easily recognizable brand for deterrence.
• BOLT 7018448 Receiver Lock for Dodge, Jeep: Great vehicle-specific choice with one-key convenience.
• AMPLOCK BRP2516 RV/Trailer Coupler Lock: Top pick for RVs and trailers, blending high security with ease of use.
• Master Lock 2866DAT Swivel Head Receiver Lock: Ideal for swiveling convenience and solid protection.
• Reese 7088300 Heavy Duty Coupler Lock: Good choice for heavy-duty trailer security with a trusted brand name.

1. Best Overall Trailer Hitch Lock: REESE 72783 Universal Coupler Heavy-Duty Lock

We’ve chosen the REESE Towpower 72783 Universal Coupler Lock as the best overall trailer hitch lock because it scores highly on all the important metrics, including security, affordability, versatility, and ease of installation. 

The bright yellow finish of this lock tells thieves that your trailer isn’t to be messed with long before they even get close to it.

And with a total of eleven locking positions, this coupler lock won’t encounter any funky trailer tongues that it won’t work with. 

It’s also compatible with multiple different coupler sizes, including 1-⅞”, 2”, and 2-5/16” varieties.

The U-shaped lock bar that locks over the top of your trailer tongue is made of a heavy-duty steel material while the yellow-colored body is constructed of lightweight aluminum. 

The advanced lock on this model is resistant to picking, prying, and even drill-outs.

And this lock comes with two separate keys that allow you to keep one on your vehicle’s keychain and the other stored in a secure location.

Things We Like

• Price: This is one of the most affordable high-quality hitch locks on the market today.
• Various Locking Positions: With 11 total locking positions, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a trailer tongue it won’t work with.
• Coupler Compatibility: It’s designed to fit multiple coupler sizes (1-⅞”, 2”, and 2-5/16”)
• Heavy-Duty Lock Bar: The U-shaped lock bar on top of this lock is made of heavy-duty steel.

Things We Don’t Like

• Aluminum Body: Some users have expressed concerns that the aluminum body of this hitch coupler locks makes it more susceptible to breaking or prying.

2. Best Budget-Friendly Coupler Lock: Master Lock 389DAT Universal Size Trailer Lock

If you’re in need of a quality coupler lock that’s available at a wallet-friendly price, look no further than the Master Lock Universal Trailer Lock.

This universal lock fits 1-⅞”, 2”, and 2-5/16” couplers and it requires a very simply installation and removal process. 

This lock is made with a bright-red finish to let thieves know that your trailer is secure before they even get close to it.

It’s also finished with a durable paint coating that makes the entire lock resistant to rust and corrosion. 

Each universal Master Lock comes with a unique set of keys that are specific to that lock.

While some users complain about this feature, this helps to guarantee the security of the lock and of your trailer.

And it features an advanced locking mechanism that’s resistant to breaking or prying.

• Universal Fit: This lock will fit multiple trailer coupler sizes (1-7/16”. 2”., and 2-5/16”)
• Bright Finish: The vibrant red color of this lock will scare thieves away before they even approach your trailer.
• Rust Resistance: The painted coating on this lock makes it highly resistant to rust and corrosion.
• Unique Keys: Master Lock does not key any two of these locks alike.
• Appearance: Some users reported that they actually didn’t care for the bright red appearance of this trailer coupler lock.

3. Best Receiver Lock: BOLT 7018448 Receiver Lock for Dodge, Jeep

The BOLT 7018448 ⅝” Receiver Lock is our choice for the best receiver-style hitch lock because it’s designed to open with your vehicle’s existing ignition key.

This eliminates the need to carry extra keys just for your receiver lock and it also makes this one of the more secure locks on the market. 

Of course, you’ll need to make sure you choose the specific lock that’s designed for your towing vehicle.

But BOLT makes these locks for a wide variety of vehicle types, including Jeep, Ram, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford Side Cut, Ford Standard Cut, Early GM, GM Center Cut, Nissan, Toyota, and more.

If you’re confused as to which lock will match your vehicle’s key, visit BOLT’s Find Your Lock page! 

It’s important to note that this lock only fits on receivers with ⅝-inch pinholes, but it does boast a significant towing weight capacity of up to 16,000 pounds.

This makes it compatible with Class III, IV, and V hitches with 2 or 2.5-inch hitch receivers. 

The pin is made of durable stainless steel material and the locking mechanism features an auto-return spring that locks when the key is removed.

It also boasts a double ball bearing locking mechanism for smoother operation and a plate tumbler sidebar to prevent thieves from picking the lock.

• Key Compatibility: This lock is designed to open with your vehicle’s existing ignition key.
• Towing Capacity: It’s rated for Class III, IV, and V hitches with a towing capacity up to 16,000 pounds.
• Materials: It’s made of high-quality stainless steel.
• Auto-Locking Mechanism: This helps to prevent you from forgetting to lock it because it automatically locks when the key is removed (and you won’t be able to forget the key in it because you’ll need the key to start your vehicle!).
• Key Compatibility: This simply means that this lock may not work on all vehicles if BOLT doesn’t manufacture it for your specific key type.

4. Best For 2-5/16” Couplers: AMPLOCK BRP2516 RV/Trailer Coupler Lock

For those of you that are specifically searching for a coupler lock for a 2-5/16 hitch ball, the AMPLOCK U-BRP2516 RV and Trailer Coupler Lock is an excellent choice because it’s one of the most innovative and heavy-duty coupler locks out there. 

As you can see, just the lock’s design alone may be enough to deter a potential thief.

It doesn’t look like many of the classic U-shaped coupler locks that some experienced trailer thieves may be accustomed to. 

This lock features its own hitch ball that slides up into the tongue of your trailer before the second part secures around the neck of the ball and then locks into place.

And because the locking mechanism is on the bottom of the simulated hitch ball cylinder, it makes it more difficult for potential thieves to locate and access if they’re attempting to pick it. 

AMPLOCK also chose stainless steel and ducted cast iron as the materials they used to manufacture the two respective components of this coupler lock.

Both of these materials offer excellent weather resistance, corrosion resistance, and resistance to torch cutting and liquid nitrogen.

The added mass of the locking mechanism also makes it more difficult to cut than a more standard U-shaped coupler lock.

• Innovative Design: The two-part design of this lock looks nothing like the standard U-shaped coupler lock and its unique appearance alone could be enough to deter thieves.
• Quality Materials: AMPLOCK used high-quality stainless steel and ducted cast iron in the construction of this lock.
• Weather Resistance: It’s resistant to corrosion, UV damage, and even torch cutting and liquid nitrogen.
• Easy Installation: This lock features a push-and-lock installation process that makes it easy to put in place in seconds.
• Price: Perhaps it’s because of the two-part design or the more expensive materials made to manufacture it, but this is easily the most expensive trailer hitch lock model on our list.

5. Best Budget-Friendly Receiver Lock: Master Lock 2866DAT Swivel Head Receiver Lock

If you need a lock for your hitch receiver and you weren’t quite thrilled with the price tag on the BOLT Receiver Lock we reviewed above, then you’ll probably like the budget-friendly price for which the Master Lock 2866DAT Swivel Head Receiver Lock is available. 

This receiver hitch lock is also a little different from the BOLT design because it features a locking head that can rotate 360 degrees.

That rotation allows you to always set it up so that the keyway is facing forward and you don’t have to awkwardly bend your wrist to unlock it. 

This receiver lock also comes with both ½-inch and ⅝-inch hitch pin diameters, but the total length of both pins measures 2.75 inches.

The ½-inch pin is rated for Class I and II hitches with a towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds.

The ⅝-inch pin is rated for Class III and IV hitches with towing capacities up to 10,000 pounds. 

The Master Lock 2866DAT also features a four-pin key cylinder that’s much harder to pick or bypass than the cylinders on some other hitch locks.

And it boasts a snap-on keyway cover that prevents moisture, dirt, and road debris from entering the interior of the lock and damaging its components.

• Price: This receiver lock is one of the most affordable options on the market today.
• Swivel Head: This allows you to adjust the keyway so that it’s always facing the most convenient direction for you.
• Pin Versatility: This lock comes with both ½-inch and ⅝-inch pins.
• Extra Security: The key cylinder includes four pins to further prevent the lock from being picked.
• Lock Seizing: Some users reported that the lock seized up and they were not able to open it with the provided keys after they left in on their hitch through the winter months.

6. Best Heavy-Duty Coupler Lock: Reese 7088300 Heavy Duty Coupler Lock

If you’re looking for an exceptional heavy-duty coupler lock that will fit multiple different hitch ball sizes, then look no further than the Reese Towpower 7088300 Heavy Duty Coupler Lock. This lock is compatible with 1-⅞, 2, and 2-5/16 hitch balls. 

The universal fit of this lock accommodates all couplers and it comes with two square, theft-proof keys so that you can always keep one with your trailer or RV keys and store the other in a secured location on, underneath, or inside of your trailer or towing vehicle. 

The ratchet-style design of this lock includes a total of eleven different locking positions.

It’s this large number of locking positions that’s responsible for this lock’s ability to fit universally on various hitch ball sizes and trailer tongues.

The 7088300 REESE coupler lock is intently finished in that bright silver color to further deter thieves that have their eyes on your trailer.

And this lock is made of hardened steel so that it lasts and can’t be broken or bypassed easily.

• Compatibility: This lock works with multiple different hitch ball sizes (1-⅞, 2, and 2-5/16)
• Heavy Duty Material: It’s made with hardened steel to make it resistant to breaking or bypassing.
• Ratchet Design: This design makes the lock super easy to install and lock in under a minute.
• Various Locking Positions: Eleven different locking positions give the lock great ability to adapt to any trailer setup.
• Lock Quality: Some users have reported that their locksmith easily bypassed the locking mechanism on this unit.

Buying Guide of Trailer Hitch Lock in 2021

Having these six trailer hitch lock options lying before you is kind of like being gifted a half-dozen assorted donuts and then being told you can only eat one.

But don’t worry! We’re going to help you narrow down to the right lock for your RV by covering the most important features and specifications to pay attention to when comparing and contrasting RV trailer hitch locks. 

The locks that we’ve reviewed above can be separated into two distinct categories: coupler locks and receiver locks.

Let’s start this Buying Guide by clearly defining each of these lock types and providing some pros and cons for each. 

Coupler Locks

Coupler locks have the unique ability to protect your travel trailer or utility trailer when it’s unhitched from your towing vehicle.

​They usually come in a U-shaped format and they fit over the top of the coupler on your trailer’s tongue.

Then, they have a ball that fits up into the coupler and the entire thing locks down using some sort of locking mechanism. 

Once installed, they prevent anyone with an appropriately-sized hitch ball from pulling up to your trailer and hooking it up to their vehicle.

If you ever store your trailer in your driveway or unhitch it and leave it at a campsite while you drive out to a trailhead or the grocery store, a coupler lock is probably the appropriate choice for you. 

Receiver Locks

Receiver locks usually look like a smaller metal pin that’s designed to slide through your hitch receiver.

It keeps anything that you want to secure in your vehicle’s hitch receiver safely locked in place and it’s designed to replace the standard hitch pin that simply secures with a metal clip. 

These locks are more appropriate for locking the various hitch-mounted accessories that can be installed on the back of RVs, travel trailers, or 5th wheels into place.

This includes things like bike racks, cargo carriers, and anything else that you might secure into your vehicle’s hitch receiver. 

These locks can also be used when towing a travel trailer or vehicle behind an RV.

But they will only keep your trailer or vehicle safe and locked up while it’s attached to your towing vehicle. Once it’s unhitched, these locks are effectively rendered useless. 

Hitch Class

There are five main hitch classes that you should be familiar with when you’re towing anything behind a car, truck, or recreational vehicle.

There are five hitch classes in total and the class of your hitch will dictate the size of the pins or ball on the coupler lock or receiver lock that you’re interested in. 

Receiver hitch locks tend to require a bit more consideration of hitch class than coupler hitch locks.

For coupler locks, you should simply be able to match the diameter of your hitch ball with the diameter of the ball on the coupler lock to ensure compatibility. 

For receiver hitch locks, however, the hitch class on your towing vehicle will impact the lock size you should look for. Here’s a quick breakdown of these sizes:

Ultimately, you should simply be able to head out to your trailer and towing vehicle to measure the hitch ball or pinhole on your respective recreational vehicles.

But if you have any questions, you can always contact your vehicle’s manufacturer directly to confirm the appropriate pin and receiver size before purchasing a trailer hitch lock. 

Locking Mechanism

Most coupler locks and receiver locks are equipped with a keyed locking mechanism to keep them from being tampered with.

It’s rare to find a combination lock for a trailer hitch, but you should pay attention to whether the lock you choose comes with keys that are manufactured specifically for that lock (and that lock alone). 

Nowadays, many companies mass produce their keys so that your keys are identical to the keys that the next customer who buys the same lock has in his or her pocket.

You can begin to see the issues that can arise with this when you have thousands of people walking around with the keys to each other’s hitch locks. 

Additionally, some manufacturers produce keys that unlock several of the products and/or RV accessories they sell.

For instance, someone that purchases another locking product that has nothing to do with RVing from the same manufacturer as your hitch lock may get their hands on a key that also has the potential to unlock your receiver or coupler lock. 

While it may cost you a bit more money upfront, you should look for a lock that comes with keys produced uniquely and specifically for that lock.

This will help you guarantee that you (and you alone) have the only set of keys that will open your hitch lock. 

Weather Resistance

The vast majority of these receiver hitch locks and trailer coupler locks spend their entire lifetimes outdoors.

This makes them subject to degradation from moisture, dirt, UV radiation, and a host of additional environmental factors. 

The good news is that most of these locks are specifically designed to handle the elements. But some are more durable and weather-resistant than others.

To find a lock that’s going to last, it’s good to look for one with a powder-coated finish because this will greatly reduce the amount of rust that builds up on and inside the lock over time. 

Quality of Materials

The materials that a manufacturer chooses when producing its hitch locks play a huge role in how durable they are once they’re out in use.

For our money, we’d recommend choosing a lock that’s constructed from some sort of high-quality or hardened steel. 

Steel is widely used for the strongest hitch locks because it’s long-lasting and extremely difficult to break even if you have a great set of bolt cutters. But the other material that some manufacturers will tout is aluminum. 

The main selling point for an aluminum trailer hitch lock is a lighter weight than most steel-based locks.

But, in an effort to reduce the weight of their locks, these manufacturers are largely producing designs that don’t last as long and, more importantly, are easier to break or bypass if someone is really trying to steal your trailer.  

Trailer hitch locks are actually available with quite a wide range of price tags. In our collection alone, you’ll find models for less than $20 and others for more than $200.

But if you’re looking for something that’s going to provide reasonable security without breaking the bank, we’d recommend identifying a hitch lock in the $30 to $150 range. 

So, Which Is Best For You?

Selecting the best trailer hitch locking mechanism for your travel trailer or RV starts with identifying whether you need a receiver lock or a coupler lock.

From there, here are a few specific scenarios for which ease of the locks we reviewed above would be the best fit. 

The REESE Towpower 72783 Universal Coupler Lock is our choice for the best overall trailer hitch lock because it’s super easy to install, highly affordable, and versatile enough to work with any type of trailer tongue.

It fits 1-⅞”, 2”, and 2-5/16” couplers and it boasts a pick-resistant locking mechanism that will keep your trailer secure while it’s in storage. 

If you’re in the market for a coupler lock but you’re looking for something a bit more affordable than the lock above, the Master Lock Universal Trailer Lock might be a great fit for you.

It’s compatible with multiple different coupler sizes (1-⅞”, 2”, and 2-5/16”) and it’s super easy to install and remove as needed. 

Those of you in search of a receiver lock to keep a hitch, hitch cargo carrier, bike rack, or any other hitch-mounted accessory secure in your hitch receiver, look no further than the BOLT 7018448 ⅝” Receiver Lock .

This lock is one of the most secure on the market because it’s designed to open with your vehicle’s existing ignition key rather than a standard set of mass-produced factory keys. 

If you’re specifically looking for a coupler lock to fit a hitch with a ball that measures 2 and 5/16” in diameter, then the AMPLOCK U-BRP2516 RV and Trailer Coupler Lock is an excellent choice for your specific application.

It features a two-part design with heavy-duty materials that make it resistant to any method of theft you can imagine. 

If you weren’t quite thrilled with the price point of the previous receiver lock we reviewed, then the Master Lock 2866DAT Swivel Head Receiver Lock is a slightly more budget-friendly option.

​This trailer hitch lock actually comes with two pins that fit both ½-inch and ⅝-inch hitch pinholes and it features a swivel head that rotates 360 degrees so that the keyway can always face in your preferred direction to make locking and unlocking it easier. 

Finally, if you’re searching for an especially heavy duty coupler lock to give you that additional peace of mind that no one is going to mess with your trailer while it’s left unattended, then check out the REESE Towpower 7088300 Heavy Duty Coupler Lock .

It’s compatible with three different hitch ball sizes and it features eleven total locking positions that make it versatile enough to fit almost any style of trailer tongue.  ​ ​

Frequently Asked Questions

We’re going to go out on a limb here and assume that you aren’t buying a new hitch lock for your trailer just to put it on a shelf and look at it.

So, in this Frequently Asked Questions section, we’ll provide some more valuable information on how to safely install a hitch lock, how to maintain them to maximize their longevity, and much more. 

What is a hitch or trailer lock?

An RV trailer lock is essentially a secondary insurance policy for any vehicle that you tow or anything that’s attached to your hitch receiver.

Most companies refer to hitch locks as those that keep your hitch and your hitch receiver securely together.

These usually look like small pins that are secured through your receiver and hitch. 

Trailer coupler locks are designed to keep someone from attaching your trailer to their truck and taking off with it.

They are placed on the hitch of your trailer once it’s removed from your towing vehicle to keep it safe while you’re away. 

Is it easy to steal a trailer?

If your trailer isn’t attached to anything and you don’t have any sort of hitch lock in place, anyone with an appropriately-sized truck and the right size hitch ball could feasibly back up to your trailer, secure it to their truck, and drive away with it. 

The good news is that even placing a standard U-shaped Master Lock through the pin hole on your trailer’s hitch latch is often enough to deter anyone that pulls up to the tongue of your trailer with the intention of stealing it.

That being said, a true trailer hitch is a bit harder for your standard set of bolt cutters to take care of, which is why it’s the recommended method to protect your trailer from theft. 

How to choose the right size trailer lock for my RV?

This will depend on whether you’re looking for a receiver lock or a coupler lock. For the former, you’ll need to measure the pinhole on your hitch receiver.

The diameter of this hole will tell you the maximum diameter that your receiver lock can be to fit snugly. 

For coupler locks, you’ll need to measure the diameter of your hitch ball and match the diameter of the coupler lock to it.

This is a relatively simple process. For example, a hitch receiver that accepts a two-inch hitch ball will require a coupler lock with a ball that’s also two inches in diameter. 

How to clean a hitch lock?

Most folks don’t really worry about cleaning their hitch lock all too often. But if you neglect it for too long, water and debris left on your lock can cause certain components to develop rust.

This may make it harder to lock and unlock and it can also make your hitch lock less secure overall. 

The good news is that simply wiping your lock down with water and a soft towel is an easy and effective way to clean it.

Depending on how much off-road RVing or camping you like to do, you’ll probably only need to clean your lock every six months or so to ensure it keeps functioning as advertised. 

What are the best hitch lock brands?

For our money, REESE makes some of the highest quality trailer hitch locks on the market today.

But if you’re looking for a few more brands to choose from, you also won’t go wrong choosing locks from Master Lock, BOLT, or AMPLOCK. 

Investing in a quality hitch lock for travel trailer use is a minimal financial hit at the end of the day.

​Considering the fact that it can help you protect much more costly accessories from theft and damage, we think it’s a worthwhile investment for all RV, travel trailer, and fifth wheel owners. 

The reality is that you just never know when someone with different values or principles from your own will try to take what isn’t theirs.

And when that does happen, it’ll be nice to know that you already prepared for the unexpected rather than having to learn that lesson the hard way. 

We hope that you’ve found the perfect trailer hitch lock for your recreational vehicle from our reviews above.

And, as always, we wish you the safest (and, in this case, most secure) of future RV adventures!

About Author / Aaron Richardson

Aaron Richardson is an expert RVer and the co-founder of RVing Know How. Aaron, along with his wife Evelyn, has been living and traveling in their Keystone Fuzion RV since 2017. Their adventures span across the country and beyond, including memorable RVing experiences in Mexico. Aaron's passion for the outdoors and RVing shines through in his writings, where he shares a blend of travel stories, practical tips, and insights to enhance the RV lifestyle.

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Dalton Bourne

The Master Lock trailer hitch lock is the lock I trust the most to use for my RV. I love how they built this lock, as its stainless steel construction makes for an extremely durable item that will help protect my trailer in the long run. It is also extremely versatile as it is capable of fitting Class I to IV joints, which makes it perfect for my Class III process.

And it can do this because its locking pin hitch can fit both ½ and ⅝ receivers. Pretty cool, right? Well, the incredible features don’t stop there as it has a watertight cap that helps reduce the effects certain weather conditions can have on the integrity of the lock.

idaho redneck

The problem I see with these U shaped coupler locks has to do with the advances in cordless tools. I think both of the ones featured in your article can be cut off the trailer in a matter of a couple of minutes with a cordless grinder. I think I will be putting the Master Lock 389AT on my new Forest River E-Pro trailer.

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The Savvy Campers

How to Secure a Trailer from Theft: 10 Anti-theft Tips to Maximize Security

We all work hard for the items we own and do not want them to fall into the wrong hands (dun dun dun….) With the right amount of effort, anything can be stolen.

My wife and I always have our feelers out when it comes to protecting what we own and preventing anyone from stealing our items as we have been stolen from in the past, and its not a good feeling. It would be the worst to be out in the middle of nowhere and come back from a hike and find out your generator, trailer hitch, or whole trailer itself is gone. We go over RV and trailer anti theft devices, interior security as well as the security of your items when out camping.

The best way to protect your trailer from being stolen is to leave it hitched up to your vehicle, parked out of site, or with your vehicle parked in front of it. Other security measures include: a hitch coupler lock, hitch pin lock, wheel locks, replacing your factory door locks, and GPS monitoring.

Understanding Trailer Theft

Factors attracting thieves.

Trailer theft is a common issue faced by many trailer owners. Thieves are attracted to trailers for various reasons, including their resale value, the ease of stealing them, and the opportunity to obtain items stored inside. Additionally, certain factors make specific trailers more desirable. These factors include:

• Lack of security features:  Trailers without locks, wheel chocks, or immobilizers are more appealing due to the simplicity of stealing them.
• Location:  Trailers parked in remote or unlit areas are at a higher risk as thieves can easily access them without being seen.
• Brand and model:  Trailers from popular brands or specific models may have a higher resale value or demand, attracting more thieves.

Common Types of Trailer Theft

Trailer theft can occur in different ways. Some of the most common forms of trailer theft include:

• Hitch theft:  Thieves detach the entire trailer from the towing vehicle, leaving the towing vehicle behind, and making off with the trailer.
• Wheel theft:  In this case, thieves steal the wheels of the trailer, rendering it immobile and leaving the owner with costly repairs.
• Contents theft:  If a trailer contains valuable items, such as tools or equipment, thieves may break into the trailer and steal those items without taking the entire trailer.

To protect your trailer from theft, consider implementing the anti-theft tips provided in the next section.

How to Lock your Trailer so it Won’t be Stolen

Below, we detail the best trailer anti theft devices available on the market today. With one of these, or a combination of all, your trailer will keep out of the clutches of anyone looking to take it.

Best Trailer Theft Protection and Anti Theft Devices

The items below will help keep your trailer secure from theft of the trailer itself, the hitch, or items within the trailer. There are several ways to protect your belongings, but you may also want to use several of these tactics.

Hitch Coupler Lock

The best way to prevent someone from stealing your trailer is to prevent them from hitching up to it in the first place. Whether you are out on a camping trip, or your trailer is parked in storage, it is best to always keep it locked up so no one else will have access to moving your trailer without your knowledge.

There are several different designs of hitch coupler locks, but we have found this model to be our favorite budget model and this model to be the best of the best . It not only protects the couple from having a ball inserted but rounds the front so cutting this off would be quite hard.

This coupler lock attaches to your coupler just like your trailer hitch ball does and locks into place. A thief would create quite a bit of noise if they had to grind or try to remove this from a hitch, so they should get caught before they are successful.

Hitch Pin Lock

We use a hitch pin lock with our hitch coupler lock which keeps the coupler locked so it would be impossible to fit the ball in making it unable to be connected. We also keep this lock on every time we tow just in case a pesky kid comes and flips the coupler up.

This would not be the best thing to happen while you are towing down the road at 60 mph. It is always recommended to have a pin in the hitch coupler so it does not wiggle loose, and this device will take its place and keep it locked on to whatever it is hitched to.

X-Chock Locks

Whenever we are parked we install our X-Chocks to keep our trailer stable when we are walking around. The design of the X-Chocks puts pressure against the tires if you have a dual axle which prevents them from moving.

We then insert a cable lock to lock the X Chock to our wheels creating another way for the trailer to not move. Someone would have to cut your wire lock and remove your X Chocks in order to move your trailer. This is yet another layer of security to prevent your trailer from being towed away.

Read more about our X-Chocks on our article on the best wheel chocks .

Wheel Chock Lock

A wheel chock lock is another device that could be added to your travel trailer, rv, automobile, or anything on wheels to keep it from being stolen.

This is similar to the boot, where it goes around your tire and wheel and locks it in place. This works great as the unit cannot be towed, and this device would be very hard to tamper with and remove without damaging a tire or anything else.

How to Track your Trailer if it does Get Stolen

Gps tracking system.

GPS tracking systems have been available for vehicles for a long time now. This is not necessarily an anti-theft device, but if your trailer does end up stolen, you can point police in the right direction to its whereabouts. This device could be hidden inside the trailer or under the undercarriage. Either way, this will leave you able to track its every movement.

Incorporating a GPS tracking system into your trailer security strategy is a smart move. Should your trailer be stolen, the GPS tracking system will help you and law enforcement pinpoint its location and recover it faster. These tracking devices can be hidden discreetly, making it difficult for thieves to locate and disable them.

GPS tracking systems typically offer the following features:

• Real-time location updates that give you the exact position of your trailer
• Geofencing capabilities, where you can set a predetermined area, and if your trailer leaves that area, you will be alerted
• Alerts for when the trailer’s motion is detected or its ignition is turned on
• Monitoring through mobile apps or web browsers for easy access

Apple AirTag to Prevent Travel Trailer Theft

AirTag’s can be an economical way to track your trailer , luggage, backpacks, golf carts, or other items. These don’t require a monthly subscription like a GPS does, but will only ping if they are in close proximity of an iPhone user. We have several AirTags in our cars, trailer, and other items we want to keep track of.

They will also let you know when they are on the move, so that is nice to have for alerts especially if you are in winter storage and don’t expect your trailer to move anytime soon.

Battery life is usually around a year, so these little things are great to have. If you aren’t an iPhone user, then the

Battery life is usually around a year, so these little things are great to have. If you aren’t an iPhone user, then the Tile is another great option.

Game Camera to Prevent Travel Trailer Theft

A game camera like this model is a good idea to have to position on your trailer or travel trailer when it is in storage or parked in an area for a long amount of time. You will be able to monitor if anyone tampers with your RV, or if it is stolen be able to have pictures and video of who did it.

Another good idea would be a Game Camera with a cellular data connection so you can know on the fly instantly if someone is hanging around your RV that shouldn’t be.

How to Secure the interior of your Travel Trailer from Thieves

We have gone over the external items on how to keep your actual whole trailer from being stolen, but now let’s look into how to protect the items within your trailer from being tampered with or stolen.

Replace Hatch Locks

Many of the locks on travel trailers are keyed alike. The hatch lock keys may be the same as your neighbors with the same brand, or even a different one. These locks are usually very weak and can be picked easily.

It is recommended to replace your hatch locks with aftermarket locks that your neighbor will not have a key to . These locks can be replaced with combination locks that allow you to set your own combination, or with a different lock which includes a different kind of key for added security.

Hatch locks are very easy to replace, so leaving the factory locks on can be a mistake that could leave you out of many of your supplies or even a generator.

Electronic Door Lock

The door lock on your travel trailer may suffer from the same issue as your hatch locks. Anyone with that same kind of trailer may have a key. It is a good idea to replace your door lock as well when you are securing up your RV.

An upgraded electronic lock with pass code is wonderful as if you are hiking and misplace your keys, or go swimming and want to leave your keys in your trailer, this electronic lock allows you to do so. Our favorite keypad lock allows you to create your own combination and lock and unlock on the fly as well as has a key fob to lock and unlock remotely.

Interior Safe for Valuables

We installed a Tuffy Security lockbox for all of our valuables while we travel. This holds our laptop, iPads, passports, as well as cash while we travel. Keep in mind you can also fit your cameras or other devices while you are out on a hike. There is about 1″ of padding all around the interior so there is no need to worry about things getting damaged.

How to Lock your Travel Trailer Accessories

Lock your expensive batteries.

Whether you have lithium or lead acid batteries on your travel trailer, they are expensive to replace. Lead acid can cost upwards of $300 to replace and lithium can cost upwards of $800. One thing you will want to make sure is locked up is your batteries

Coming to your trailer storage unit to find your batteries are gone is not a fun sight. This genius invention can save your batteries from becoming a target for a thief. It is available for single or dual batteries depending on how many batteries you have.

It is fairly simple to install, but provides great protection.

Secure a Generator

The generator you pack along on your camping trips is often one of the most stolen items. We recommend you lock it up to your ladder, frame, stairs, hitch, or anything you can fasten it to. As these units are becoming smaller and more lightweight, they have become easier targets.

A generator can range from $500 to $1,000+ so taking the added security is cheap insurance. We use a cable bike lock as well as a lock to fasten our generator’s handle to our rear bumper. Now at the end of the day, someone could still steal this with minimal tools, but at least it makes it apparent you are protecting your items and makes it a little more difficult for someone to steal.

Lock your Surge Protector

A surge protector is such a small item that can be stolen at the blink of an eye, you want to make sure it is locked up. Our favorite surge protector comes with an eye loop to enable it to be locked up with a simple cable lock . This can be a quick way to save your 100+ surge protector with minimal time.

Propane Tank Lock

By locking up your propane tank(s) you will prevent them from being stolen. They can be expensive to not only replace but if you have them full of propane, there is even more lost cost.

Keep your Weight Distribution Hitch Locked

We have made friends with others at many campgrounds and have listened to many horror stories. This one, in particular, must have been very hard. The couple we had met had left the campground hiking for the day and left their hitch attached to their truck.

Upon return, their expensive weight distribution hitch was gone. Not only did this cause them to purchase another hitch, but their campsite was 3 hours away from the nearest town with one. Their specific brand was not available from the two trailer stores, so they had to opt-out of a weight-distribution  hitch and go with a normal one.

Towing their massive trailer with no weight distribution or sway control was horrible for them. Once they got back from their summer trip they still had to purchase a new weight distribution hitch. This small event of a 6 hour drive, $400 for a new hitch, and all the hassle could have been prevented with a sub $10 item.

We recommend this hitch lock to lock your hitch to your car’s receiver so it does not walk away. We also recommend storing your hitch in your trailer locked up so it does not walk away as well.

Parking and Storage Strategies To Prevent your Trailer from Being Stolen

Choosing a safe place.

When selecting a location for your trailer, prioritize well-lit, secure areas such as dedicated camping or recreational vehicle storage facilities. These areas often have security measures in place that act as a deterrent to potential thieves. If you need to store your trailer in an unfamiliar area, try to choose a spot that is visible from your location, so you can easily keep an eye on your possessions.

Another option is to store your trailer in your own driveway or on your property. This allows you to have full control over security measures and can be an affordable alternative to commercial storage facilities. Just make sure your local regulations allow for it.

Using Security Measures at the Location

Reinforce the security of the location where you’ve chosen to park your trailer by implementing additional measures. These can include:

• Installing an alarm system : A trailer alarm system serves as an effective deterrent. In the event someone attempts to tamper with your trailer, the alarm will notify you or others nearby, possibly scaring off the intruder.
• Using a ball unit or receiver lock : A ball unit lock prevents unauthorized coupling of your trailer to a towing vehicle. Likewise, a receiver lock can secure the hitch to the vehicle, making it more difficult for a thief to just drive away with your trailer.
• Incorporating visible deterrents : Items such as wheel clamps, hitch locks, and chains are effective deterrents for potential thieves. The more difficult it appears to steal your trailer, the less likely someone will target it.

How to Secure and Prevent Trailer Theft in your Driveway

The best way to protect your travel trailer from theft in your driveway is to follow the guidance earlier in this article.

Use the following guidance to secure your trailer at home:

• Trailer Hitch Lock
• Coupler Lock
• Install Cameras at your Home Focused on your Trailer
• Keep your Trailer behind a fence or gate
• Park a vehicle in front of your trailer at night

Keep in mind that no single security measure is foolproof. To better protect your trailer and your valuables, it’s wise to combine multiple strategies and frequently reevaluate the effectiveness of your chosen measures.

10 Helpful Items Mentioned in this Article:

• A trailer tongue lock will prevent your trailer from being stolen while you are away from it.
• This receiver and hitch pin lock set will prevent your expensive weight distribution hitch as well as trailer from being stolen.
• X-Chocks serve two purposes , first to reduce movement when walking around in your trailer, second to reduce the chance of theft. Tighten these up and lock them to your wheels and no one can move your trailer.
• This lock we mentioned above to lock up your x-chocks will also work perfectly for your surge protector. They come in packs of three so you can lock up two x chocks and your surge protector with one pack.
• The Trimax wheel lock will truly lock up your trailer and prevent theft. It basically works as a boot so no one can tow it. Just don’t lose the key!
• A portable GPS hidden in your trailer will track its whereabouts at all times if your RV does get stolen.
• Protecting the inside of your RV is also important, replacing your baggage locks with these will prevent a universal key from being used.
• As mentioned, many travel trailers have the same keys, so replacing your main door lock with a key code lock will eliminate you from having to remember your key, but also get you a different key set no one else has.
• A battery lock will prevent your batteries from being stolen saving you lots of money. A propane tank lock will keep your bottles mounted on your trailer away from thiefs hands.
• Having a good quality bike lock and cable will prevent your generator from being stolen. Always lock it up in your truck or while using to a tree or your RV.

We hope these tips help you from having items taken from your travel trailer or the whole unit taken itself. Keep yourself safe and protected from thieves as this could ruin your whole summer road trip. We use a hitch coupler lock and a hitch pin lock at all times when the trailer is unhitched from our rig as well as add the x-chocks locked to the tire when we are at a campground.

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Last updated on: March 29, 2022

The 12 Best Trailer Hitch Locks (Review) in 2022

by Chris Coleman

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You might be surprised to learn that travel trailers or fifth wheels are among the most frequently stolen types of vehicles, since they can be unhitched and hooked up to any vehicle with the right hitch and towed away in less than a minute, sometimes just seconds with a pro. As your home on wheels is quite a substantial investment, you need to protect it from theft by using the best trailer hitch lock when you must let your trailer get out of your sight now and then. After it’s secured by a hitch lock, your trailer could never be moved by anyone else besides its owner.

Fortunately, there are hitch locks for both hitched and unhitched trailers, so you can secure your investment while at the campground as well as when it’s parked in your driveway at home in the off season. As with other RV accessories, the market for this product is vast and diverse. But we have done the hard work of browsing and comparing models and diving into in-depth trailer hitch lock reviews to evaluate their performance to bring you a selected list of the very best lock for trailer hitch models for different purposes. They will give your trailer extended protection for many years to come, and you your peace of mind to better enjoy your trips.

To make your purchasing decision and user experience as silky as possible, this comprehensive guide will also explain how the different types of trailer hitch locks work, how to use  and take care of them for maximum longevity, important buying criteria, the most prestigious manufacturers, and answers to frequently asked questions.

Comparison Chart Of The Best Trailer Hitch Locks

What is a trailer hitch lock, why you absolutely need a trailer hitch lock, types of trailer hitch locks and how they work, 1. master lock 2866dat receiver lock – best overall, 2. reese 72783 coupler lock – best value for money, 3. curt 23518 trailer hitch receiver lock – editor’s choice, 4. connor 1615190 receiver lock, 5. cocoweb c-lock trailer hitch receiver lock, 6. master lock 389dat trailer hitch coupler lock, 7. motormic trailer hitch receiver lock, 8. trimax umax100 coupler lock, 9. tow ready 63228 coupler lock, 10. reese 7014700 lock kit, 11. ohuhu receiver lock, 12. amplock u-brp2516 rv/trailer coupler lock, compatibility, weather resistance, ease of use, proven locks, master lock, so, which is the best trailer hitch lock, 1. what should i do if i lose my hitch lock key, 2. how to clean or maintain a hitch lock, 3. can i tow with a hitch lock can a hitch lock be used in place of a hitch pin and safely tow a boat or trailer, 4. how to determine the hitch size for hitch locks, 5. how do i reinforce my trailer hitch lock to make my trailer harder to steal, the basics of trailer hitch locks.

An RV hitch lock is designed to keep your trailer hitch and the receiver together, unless you unlock it with a key. These locks prevent anyone from lifting the receiver and unhitch the trailer while you’re away from your rig.

Theft of a trailer or a boat can happen fast. It just takes mere minutes, even less than a minute, for the experienced pros to back up a truck, jump out, unhitch the trailer, then hook up the trailer  to their vehicle and take off with your valuable investment.

In recent years, with the rising popularity of RV life, trailers and other classes of recreational vehicles were considered the 4th most common vehicle type to be stolen, given the fact that a trailer or fifth wheel can be unhitched without a lock and simply hooked up to another towing vehicle.

And since your home on wheels is such a substantial investment, it’s logical to invest in insurance by getting the best locking hitch pin to protect your beloved RV from theft. While some skeptical campers might argue that the real pros should be able to handle these locks anyway, the best trailer hitch locks on the market today have stood the test of time, as testified by many full-time campers. And should the worst scenario happen, they would still deter and make the stealing much more difficult, thus making it more obvious that your trailer is being handled by someone other than its owner. 

Here, it’s important to point out that some folks are using a padlock instead of an actual trailer hitch lock. An experienced and well-equipped thief can easily cut through a conventional padlock, but no so with the best trailer hitch locks.

Travel trailer hitch locks come in different shapes, sizes and locking mechanisms, so to understand how a trailer hitch lock works, or how to lock a trailer hitch, things must be put into perspective, regarding the different types of hitch locks.

Coupler Hitch Lock

A coupler hitch lock is the ideal protection for your home on wheels if you need to unhitch your trailer and leave it at the campground to take your tow vehicle away on a grocery shopping trip or running errands. If you park your rig on your driveway at home in the off season, you’d need a coupler hitch lock to protect it from theft.

Coupler locks have the unique ability to protect your travel trailer when it’s unhitched from your towing vehicle. Coupler hitch locks usually have a U-shaped design and mount to the top of the coupler on your trailer’s tongue. The lock has a ball that would fit up into the coupler and thus locking the entire setup down. This prevents anyone with a towing vehicle equipped with an appropriately-sized hitch ball from hooking your unguarded trailer up and towing away.

Receiver Hitch Lock

The average receiver locks for trailers look like small metal pins with locks on the ends. Some models even have locks on curve ends that could take time to pull out. Receiver hitch locks are designed to fit crosswise and slide into the designated fastener holes on your hitch receiver, where the hitch meets the frame of the tow vehicle. Once locked in, the pin slips between the trailer tongue and the receiver.

This type of trailer hitch lock excels at securing hitched trailers and is designed to replace the standard hitch pin that simply secures with a metal clip. That said, once your trailer is unhitched from your towing truck, these locks won’t offer the kind of protection that a coupler hitch lock can.

In addition to securing your trailer when it’s hitched to your tow vehicle, receiver hitch locks are also very handy for locking a second compact vehicle behind your motorhome. It’s also ideal for locking the various hitch-mounted accessories that can be installed on the back of your rig, including bike racks, kayak racks and cargo carriers, or any other accessory that you might secure into your hitch receiver. 

Selecting the best trailer hitch lock for your rig starts with determining whether you need a receiver lock or a coupler lock or both. If you know what you’re looking for, dive into our handpicked list of the absolute best trailer hitch locks on the market today based on their specifications, features, materials and level of protection, as testified by thousands of customers’ in-depth trailer hitch lock reviews as well as experts’ opinions. 

There are both receiver locks and coupler locks for you to choose from. But if you don’t know what to look for in the best trailer hitch lock for your circumstances, skip to the next section to learn the most important buying criteria, including how to select an appropriate hitch lock of the correct size for the best locking performance.

Top-Rated Trailer Hitch Locks

Now, let’s dive into our delicious handpicked list of the very best trailer hitch locks on the market. Our selection is based on the products’ specifications, which are matched with in-depth trailer coupler lock reviews by verified buyers and experts’ opinions to gauge the true capabilities of these locks in different towing settings.

In addition to utmost security from the unscrupulous minds, these trailer hitch locks also offer a good balance of all the most important buying criteria for the most pleasant using experience over the years.

Here, you will find both receiver locks and coupler locks for different purposes. If you know what you need for your specific towing circumstances, dive right in. Otherwise, skip to the next section to learn crucial buying considerations in to get the best band for your buck!

Why This Is The Most Well-Rounded Trailer Hitch Lock:

By employing a 4-pin cylinder, the Master Lock 2866DAT Receiver Lock excels at resisting picking attempts, giving you complete peace of mind when you’re away from your trailer. Boasting a swivel locking head that could rotate 360 degrees, Master Lock 2866DAT is a breeze to operate with a highly accessible keyway. 

Thanks to the snap-on cover, the lock is well protected from dust, dirt and moisture on the open road, thus maximizing the unit’s longevity and minimizing the likelihood of seizing. Moreover, as this lock from Master Lock is made from premium-grade steel and chrome plated, its longevity is outstanding, even when subjected to varying weather conditions on the road, as testified by full-time RVers who travel year-round.

Engineered as a plain push-to-lock model, 2866DAT would be locked once you push the lock body into the pin and remove the key. Regarding ease of use, Master Lock 2866DAT Receiver Lock is deemed unmatched in its price range by many trailer hitch lock reviews . To reassure buyers, Master Lock backs its lock with a sublime limited lifetime warranty, which should speak volumes about the reliability and durability of this trailer hitch lock.

As for compatibility, Master Lock 2866DAT Receiver Lock fit hitches that come with a 1.25/2-inch receiver. To maintain safe operation, you need to pay attention to the load rating as well.

I’ve used quite a few difference receiver hitch locks and this is, by far, the nicest. I like the fact that it comes with 2 sizes of hitch pins as that is the reason I need to buy another lock. My other 3 2-inch receiver locking hitch pins had wider shafts and didn’t fit my wife’s receiver on her new car. Before this I thought these were one size fits all. Apparently not. The lock cylinder is also rubber covered which is nice as it rests on a ledge on our receiver hitch so the rubber help prevent messing up the finish on the hitch. Shared by Rockadile

• Long-lasting, backed with limited lifetime warranty
• Snap-on cover for protection from the elements
• Excellent security
• Instances of seizing has been reported
• Flimsy keys

Why This Offers The Best Value For Money:

Reese is a renown manufacturer of a wide variety of trailer hitch accessories, and they also excel in the arena for the best trailer hitch locks. The 72783 Coupler Lock is no exception. What sets this Reese 72783 Coupler Lock apart from its competitors is that it incorporates a first-class ratchet design that boasts an assortment of locking positions for universal fitness. Therefore, adapting 72783 to different towing setups is essentially a walk in the park. 

In terms of security, the Reese lock is made to resist picking, prying and drilling which means it keeps your trailer secured at all times. In the case that you must leave your unhitched trailer unattended every now and then, 72783 would be a worthwhile investment. Durability is also its strong point, thanks to a combination of aluminum body and steel lock bar, making it both light and heavy-duty. 

It’s worth noting that for its all-around excellent design and performance, Reese 72783 Coupler Lock is available at an affordable price too. This gives it extra points in the eyes of RVers seeking the best trailer hitch locks without breaking the bank.

Another handy feature is its bright yellow finish that is highly visible from a distance and good at deterring the unscrupulous minds. As for post-purchase support, Reese 72783 Coupler Lock is backed with a limited lifetime warranty. Hence, if your hitch lock fails because of manufacturing defects, it’s possible to claim a free replacement.

We have been very happy with this lock. We purchased a trailer and are currently storing it until we need to use it and were worried someone may take the trailer from the lot. This is a very inexpensive bit of piece of mind for us so we don’t have to worry are much. If someone really wants the trailer bad enough to cut the lock, then not much would stop them anyways. Also, this has two keys, which make it nice in case we ever lose one. It fits nice and secure, and is easy to lock and unlock for quick removal when we travel with it. I really have no complaints. It isn’t the highest security lock, but most padlocks aren’t. Shared by Ashley

• Sturdy and compact
• Unrivaled adaptability
• Keyway should be overhauled

Why It’s Our Editor’s Choice:

Thanks to the integration of barbell-style locking mechanism, the Curt 23518 Receiver Lock presents an impenetrable layer of security to trailers. Another plus is that it’s very easy to use: as it’s a turn-lock model, the Curt lock could be locked as well as unlocked easily. 

Made from quality carbon steel, the Curt 23518 Receiver Lock is often praised for its solid construction. Another feature that would ensure longevity is its use of an advanced watertight dust cap that stops the elements from reaching its internal components, allowing it to work reliably in a variety of camping and towing settings. Therefore, Curt 23518 Receiver Lock is known as the best trailer hitch lock for those that hit the road year-round.

For the sake of convenience, the Curt lock is delivered to customers alongside two keys. Thus, you may keep one key around for regular use and put the spare in a discreet location for emergencies. Regarding compatibility, Curt 23518 Receiver Lock is made to suit 2-inch receivers but it’s not suited for doubled-walled types. As 23518 packs a comparatively basic setup process, you don’t have to spend too much time and energy installing it.

• Easy turn-lock mechanism
• Watertight dust cap for better protection from the elements 
• Heavy-duty material for extra longevity
• Slim and sleek
• Excellent value for money
• Less than ideal quality control
• Not long enough for certain setups

Why We Love It:

Constructed using heavy-duty steel, Connor 1615190 Receiver Lock could handle a wide range of abuses as well as outdoor elements. In addition, the lock from Connor integrates an innovative design that contains relatively few moving parts compared to its competitors. Because of that, in terms of reliability, 1615190 is considered to be the best trailer hitch lock of its type nowadays. In the case that you want peace of mind, you should think about putting Connor 1615190 Receiver Lock in your shortlist.

About handling, the all-weather grip of the Connor lock ensures that you would be able to get a hold of it in various conditions. Also, thanks to the inclusion of convenient push-to-lock and auto-release mechanisms, 1615190 allows its users to lock and unlock it in mere seconds. Since the key slot of Connor 1615190 Receiver Lock is covered by a rugged rubber cap, it’s well-protected against corrosion and gunk in use. For compatibility, the lock made by Connor is going to work well on all hitches that have a 2/2.5-inch receiver.

As it’s sold at a reasonable price, Connor 1615190 Receiver Lock is well-liked by budget-mind powers of trailers. Besides that, the lock of Connor is accompanied by a splendid 1-year limited warranty too.

The lock is gunmetal gray has a rubber grip around the locking mechanism. The lock has an attached rubber cover. I have only used it for one trip and it worked great. Not sure why there is all of this concern about it being long. It worked great for me and it did not rattle at all. It is a nice looking receiver pin and lock and I had no problems with it and would recommend this lock to others. It is also made in the USA which is a plus! Shared by Redhead

• Intuitive operation
• Dependable and reliable
• Quality control still needs some work
• A couple of users complain locks getting rusty

Looking for a hitch lock for trailers with instantaneous installation? If that is so, you must take a look at Cocoweb C-Lock Receiver Lock. During the installation of the Cocoweb lock, there is no need to worry about drilling, mounting hardware and similar issues. All you have to do is to slide in the pin, lock it and that is going to be everything. Naturally, to people that need to secure their trailers in a hurry, Cocoweb C-Lock Receiver Lock is undoubtedly the best trailer hitch lock available for purchase on the market.

Since the Cocoweb lock employs a barbell-style locking mechanism, it guarantees optimal fitness and prevents thieves from removing it forcefully at the same time. In addition to that, Cocoweb C-Lock Receiver Lock keeps the delicate key hole covered with a weatherproof key cap. Hence, you would rarely experience obstruction as you turn the key to remove the lock. Interestingly, the lock made by Cocoweb is offered in plenty of sizes so it’s simple to find one that is compatible with your trailer.

Like many other hitch locks, Cocoweb C-Lock Receiver Lock is accompanied by two keys so you have a spare in case things go south. As for price, the lock that comes from Cocoweb is considered to be highly affordable.

• Swift setup
• Well-made and rugged
• Hassle-free operation
• A few locks get rusty over time
• Unresponsive customer service

As it’s engineered to be a universal model, Master Lock 389DAT Coupler Lock could be used to secure a wide range of trailers nowadays. Because of that, countless trailer coupler lock reviews give the lock made by Master Lock positive remarks for its compatibility. Besides that, due to its bright red finish, 389DAT usually stands out from the surrounding which would discourage illicit intentions. The incorporation of an advanced locking mechanism also lets Master Lock 389DAT Coupler Lock resist locking as well as prying.    

Capable of enduring extensive exposure to elements in the outdoors, the lock from Master Lock works well in various environments. The use of high-quality materials means rust and corrosion would rarely cause issues to Master Lock 389DAT Coupler Lock. As proof of confidence, Master Lock is even willing to back its lock with a limited lifetime warranty that brings peace of mind to customers. Compared to the average travel trailer hitch locks , 389DAT surely seems expensive but the values it possesses match the price.

In use, Master Lock 389DAT Coupler Lock features straightforward operation. Thus, the hitch lock of Master Lock could be put to good use by everyone.

• Security is outstanding
• Convenient and durable
• User-friendly handling
• Kind of costly
• A couple of locks arrive inoperable

Reliable and long-lasting, Motormic Receiver Lock gets a shower of praise from countless owners of trailers around the globe. Packing extra long pins and adjustable O-ring for a snug fit, the Motormic lock gives a good account of itself in lots of setups. As Motormic Receiver Lock integrates a basic push-to-lock mechanism, locking it is just a walk in the park. To unlock the lock from Motormic, you only need to insert the key and proceed to turn it one-quarter.

Featuring a body constructed using forged steel and powder-coated finish, Motormic Receiver Lock resists rust and corrosion relatively well. Aside from that, the Motormic lock boasts a silicone protection cap to keep foreign materials like dirt, grime and alike out of the key slot. As a result, Motormic Receiver Lock is able to maintain consistent performance in challenging conditions. The lock for trailers of Motormic is shipped alongside by a safety clip that boosts the level of security too.

In terms of affordability, Motormic Receiver Lock is available at a budget-friendly price so owners of trailers could pick it up without much difficulty. If you need technical assistance, the customer service set up by Motormic would help you resolve an assortment of issues.

• Resilient construction
• Delivery service is top-notch
• Sublime aftermarket support
• Users report receiving locks with incorrect dimensions
• The finish wears off fast

By incorporating ballistic nylon housing, Trimax UMAX100 Coupler Lock could take on multiple hammer blows and still remain essentially functional. That is why UMAX100 tends to be regarded as one of the finest locks money can buy once it comes to resistance against physical impacts. Furthermore, the lock of Trimax handles heat, snow, moisture and other elements well so it’s going to work like a charm in harsh weather. About handling, Trimax UMAX100 Coupler Lock is deemed highly portable thanks to its lightweight construction.

As it utilizes a tough spring-loaded locking mechanism, Trimax UMAX100 Coupler Lock would keep trailers well-secured while unhitched. Capable of resisting drilling, the lock made by Trimax proved to be a high-security model that you could count on. Upon purchase, UMAX100 comes with a sturdy key designed to address bending, breaking and alike. Because of that, Trimax UMAX100 Coupler Lock allows people to avoid the possibility of having to cut open the lock due to damaged keys.

Being a high-priced model, UMAX100 requires certain considerations but if you have money to spend and care about quality, it’s the best trailer hitch lock you may get.

• Prompt shipping
• Excellent integrity
• Solid and intimidating profile
• Quite expensive
• Customer service is barely acceptable

Employing a shielded design, Tow Ready 63228 Coupler Lock is protected against many tampering devices so thieves would likely have an extremely hard time picking it. In addition, the lock made by Tow Ready uses a reliable push-button locking mechanism that locks and unlocks consistently. Therefore, 63228 adapt well to all kinds of environments and personal demands from owners of trailers. The economical cost of Tow Ready 63228 Coupler Lock makes it the best trailer hitch lock for those that happen to have tight wallets as well.

About compatibility, the Tow Ready lock matches all standard 2-inch couplers that contain a flat lip on the bottom edge. The absence of tools in the setup process means you could add Tow Ready 63228 Coupler Lock to your trailer in a blink of an eye. Besides that, as 63228 is light, it possesses splendid handling characteristics so you should never break a sweat during the installation. In the case that you decide to pick up Tow Ready 63228 Coupler Lock, you would receive two keys so you have a spare for emergencies.

As for aftermarket support, 63228 is backed by a decent 1-year limited warranty from Tow Ready. The warranty of Tow Ready features extended coverage too which is undoubtedly a major plus.

• Secured operation
• Portable and dependable
• Users complain about keys getting stuck
• Some locks arrive without keys

So you want to secure your trailer while it’s hitched as well as unhitched? Then you would surely come to like Reese 7014700 Lock Kit. Since it includes a coupler lock and a receiver lock, 7014700 could guarantee absolute security for trailers in lots of settings. One interesting thing about the Reese locks is that being keyed alike, they use the same flat key and Reese also gives people a spare. Hence, if you grab the lock kit from Reese, you don’t have to remember which key opens which lock.

Engineered for universal installation, the coupler lock in the Reese 7014700 Lock Kit boasts superb compatibility compared to typical hitch locks. Regarding the receiver lock, it should match 0.5 and 0.625-inch receivers so all in all, adding 7014700 to trailers is a cakewalk. Aside from that, thanks to the lightweight bodies, both Reese hitch locks packs outstanding portability. As a result, setting up the locks on and putting them away tend to only take a couple of seconds.     

Available at a reasonable price, 7014700 is undoubtedly a good buy for those that want the best trailer hitch lock without having to spend big bucks. The 1-year limited warranty that accompanies the lock kit made by Reese is reassuring too.

• Straightforward handling
• Wonderful compatibility
• Rugged and secured
• Seizing seems to be common
• Mediocre quality control

Simple and robust, Ohuhu Receiver Lock is well-received by people that prioritize practicalness once it comes to hitch locks. Utilizing a push-to-lock design, the lock made by Ohuhu is widely deemed a breeze to operate: all you need to do is to push in the pins until you hear a “click” sound. To unlock Ohuhu Receiver Lock, you simply have to insert the key, turn it and the pin is going to pop out like other models. The key hole is covered by a waterproof and dirtproof cap so reliability is excellent.

Built using top-class solid steel, the Ohuhu lock resists rust as well as corrosion. That is why Ohuhu Receiver Lock would keep your trailer secured even in harsh conditions. In terms of compatibility, the lock of Ohuhu uses two pins, one for 0.5-inch receivers and one for 0.625-inch receivers. Thus, Ohuhu Receiver Lock should work like a charm in an assortment of towing setups.

To make things convenient for the users, Ohuhu offers its hitch lock alongside two keys. So in the case that you lose one key, you still have a spare round to unlock Ohuhu Receiver Lock.

• Cost is fair
• Sturdy and reliable
• Sublime delivery service
• Inconsistent performance between locks
• Several customers complain about missing keys

Boasting a resilient heady-duty construction that incorporates a mix of stainless steel and ducted cast iron, AMPLock U-BRP2516 Coupler Lock possesses impressive durability. Able to absorb shocks, U-BRP2516 would proceed to fold/bump instead of falling apart after it receives major blows. In addition to that, due to its considerable mass, the AMPLock lock slows down all attempts to cut it open. Since it employs a rotative face, AMPLock U-BRP2516 Coupler Lock also resists drilling well.

By integrating a high-security two-part locking mechanism, the lock made by AMPLock is good at thwarting picking attempts. Moreover, U-BRP2516 is capable of maintaining a snug fit which should remove all possible holds that thieves can use. Because of that, AMPLock U-BRP2516 Coupler Lock is considered to be the best trailer coupler lock on the market. Also, the AMPLock lock takes seconds to set up so you don’t have to worry about draw-out installation.

AMPLock U-BRP2516 Coupler Lock is sold with several keys but if required, owners of trailers could order replacement keys. AMPLock offers trailer hitch locks that are keyed alike too.

• Durability is splendid
• User-friendly operation  
• High-priced
• Incompatible with certain trailers

How to Choose The Best Trailer Hitch Lock

Just as receiver locks and coupler locks are made for different purposes, the best trailer hitch lock for your towing situation depends on many factors. For instance, no matter how solid and expensive a hitch lock is, it’ll be utterly useless if it doesn’t fit the hitch ball or pin hole on your tow vehicle. While comparing different models, keep in mind the following important criteria to make sure your money is well spent on a compatible hitch lock that will be easy to maintain and will provide you with good service for many years to come.

For coupler locks, the diameter of the ball on the coupler lock must match the diameter of your hitch ball; that’s the only measurement you need to make to ensure compatibility. Meanwhile, if you’re buying a receiver hitch lock, the lock size you need will depend wholly on the hitch class on your towing vehicle. 

There are five classes for the hitches on towing vehicles as well as recreational vehicles:

• Hitch Class I: ½-inch pin, 1-¼ inch receiver
• Hitch Class II: ½-inch pin, 1-¼ inch receiver
• Hitch Class III: ⅝-inch pin, 2-inch receiver
• Hitch Class IV: ⅝-inch pin, 2-inch receiver
• Hitch Class V: ⅝-inch pin, 2-inch, 2-5/16-inch, and 2-½  inch receiver

The class of your hitch will decide the size of the pins on the receiver lock. A class I or a class II hitch will require a 1-1/4 inch receiver lock. A class III, class IV or class V hitch will require a 2 inch receiver lock.

Of course, you can always directly contact your tow vehicle’s manufacturer to confirm the appropriate size of a compatible trailer hitch lock. And to double-check to make sure the receiver lock you’re planning to buy will fit your hitch snugly, it’s recommended that you measure the overall width of the outside of the receiver on your tow vehicle at the hitch pin hole. Then, make sure the inside width of the receiver lock you want is at least as wide as the width measurement you just made. 

As the hitching arrangement changes considerably between trailers and some locks are built for very specific vehicles and purposes, you have to give compatibility some thoughts before buying a hitch lock. In the case that you grab a lock that fails to match the towing setup of your trailer, it’s as good as a paperweight. 

In addition to picking a lock of the right size as above, you should opt for a unit labeled as a universal trailer hitch lock which can work with a variety of recreational vehicle and hitch accessories. This is especially so if you rent RVs for occasional camping trips or if you own more than one trailer for different purposes. Universal locks often fit with coupler sizes 1-⅞”, 2”, and 2-5/16”. 

Due to the purpose of hitch locks, it’s quite obvious that security would be one of the top criteria. The last thing you want to pick up is a lock that may be picked and removed in a moment. Here, it’s important to spend some time reading the reviews of other owners of trailers to get accurate assessments and narrow down your shortlist.  

Most trailer hitch locks feature a keyed locking mechanism to keep them from being tampered with (you probably won’t find a combination lock for a trailer hitch though). For instance, a barbell locking mechanism is quite formidable in deterring picking and prying attempts, since it is designed to fit more snugly into your hitch, making it extra secure. Some of the best trailer hitch locks today even allow you to use a third-party padlock for reinforcement to provide an extra layer of security.

The most important point when it comes to security that many buyers overlook is that you’d want to make sure that the lock you buy comes with keys that are manufactured specifically for that lock alone, instead of sharing the same keys with that the next customer who buys the same lock has, or the same keys with many other towing accessories made by the same manufacturer. 

For utmost security and your peace of mind, you should look for a lock that comes with keys produced uniquely and specifically for that lock, and it may cost you a bit more money, but it won’t break the bank and it’s well worth it. There’s not much point trying to save a few bucks, knowing that your trailer hitch lock is exposed to the following risks:

Nowadays, many manufacturers of trailer hitch locks mass produce the keys for the same model, so that you and any other buyer who buys the exact same hitch lock would have identical keys. This is a problem when you, just imagine, park your RV at a crowded campground, and many people might be walking around with the keys to each other’s hitch locks. 

What’s worse than this is that some manufacturers actually mass produce keys for different accessories for RVs, trucks, or devices for the home that they sell. For instance, a buyer of a locking product for residential use from the same manufacturer as your hitch lock may have a key that can unlock your trailer hitch lock. 

The vast majority of trailer hitch locks spend their entire lifetimes outdoors and thus are constantly exposed to damaging UV radiation, rain, snow, dust and dirt. The good news is that the best trailer hitch locks these days are specifically designed to handle a whole host of additional environmental factors. 

Look for models made from heavy duty material and have a powder-coated finish to hold up well under varying weather conditions and reduce the amount of rust that builds up on and inside the lock over time. Additionally, the most weather-resistant trailer hitch lock should come with a cover to protect both the exterior and interior parts of the lock. 

Regarding materials, a high-quality or hardened steel would be the most heavy-duty. The best trailer hitch locks are often made from steel, which is both long-lasting and extremely difficult to break, even when subjected to a strong set of bolt cutters. The second most popular material for the best trailer hitch locks is aluminum. The main selling point for aluminum is that it’s reasonably strong while being lighter than steel. Meanwhile, some manufacturers are using less than ideal materials in an effort to reduce the weight of their locks as well as manufacturing cost, thus compromising their hitch lock’s ability to deter picking and cutting.  

It’s a good idea to prioritize dependable hitch locks that keep trailers secured and give thieves a tough time. That being said, you should avoid overly complex models as they may add unneeded complications to the coupling/decoupling process. For ease of use, look for a push-button lock mechanism. Towing operations already pack a wide range of issues that require attention so it’s best that you select an intuitive lock for your trailer. Don’t let ease of use compromise security and durability though as in the end, you still need a solid hitch lock that deters theft.  

Nowadays, hitch locks for trailers come at an assortment of prices so plenty of models exist for every shopping budget. The price range for trailer hitch locks these days are actually quite wide. There are models that cost less than $20, many that cost more than $100 and some other that cost north of $200.

Usually, RV owners don’t have to spend a fortune to get decent hitch locks but you must remember the rule of thumb “you get what you pay for”. Dirt-cheap hitch locks would never incorporate state-of-the-art technologies as well as top-of-the-line materials. All in all, if you’re looking for a solid lock that’s going to provide reasonable security as well as being user-friendly and durable, we’d recommend identifying a hitch lock in the $50 to $150 range.

Best Trailer Hitch Lock Brands

The number of trailer hitch lock manufacturers is enormous, and if you well understand your towing needs and know what you want in a hitch lock, feel free to try out the products that you believe will be a good fit for your towing setup. That said, going with major manufacturers is always a safe bet. 

Firstly, since their products are more widely known and popular, the pool of buyers is larger, so there are more in-depth reviews for you to rely on when comparing models and more people for you to ask questions. Secondly, prestigious manufacturers, like the ones below, typically provide good customer service and after-sale support as well as a warranty, so you’ll more likely to have a smooth purchasing experience.

CURT is a name that you would come across several times in any reviews on any product related to trailer hitches. In this arena, the name CURT is synonymous with quality and longevity. With substantial experience in designing hitches and associated accessories, CURT knows exactly what most people come across in towing operations. Their towing accessories are top-notch, and their hitch locks are praised for their well-rounded design and performance.

Once it comes to hitching goods, Reese is the name that you could count on. In the case that all you need is a robust trailer hitch lock, you should think about buying from Reese

Known for using high-quality materials in its products, Proven Locks is considered to be one of the leading brands of hitch locks for trailers. In use, models of Proven Locks would handle essentially everything that people throw at them.

By constantly incorporating new production techniques, technologies and so on, Master Lock is able to assemble outstanding hitch locks that work well in multiple settings. Being a long-established brand,  Master Lock possesses a well-developed customer service as well.

Bolt is known for their innovative hitch locks that boast a single-key mechanism. Simply insert your vehicle’s ignition key into the BOLT trailer hitch lock lock, turn it once and the lock mechanically and permanently learns the key code. You might be aware that while your ignition key might have the same cut and looks just identical to your neighbor’s who owns the same Ford, the two keys are different inside. So this break-through BOLT’s locking mechanism allows for security while saving you the trouble of having to carry around extra keys and looking for the spare one when you lose your primary key, which happens to be very common.

Headquartered in Colorado, Trimax tirelessly analyzes the latest market demands and produces goods that meet the expectations of the customers. In addition to that, hitch locks for trailers of Trimax also come at reasonable prices.

Boasting rigorous quality control checks and tests, Connor is held in high esteem by owners of trailers around the globe. Unsurprisingly, regarding reliability and consistency, trailer hitch locks of Connor prove to be unmatched.

AMPLOCK produces durable and extra strong locks for a variety of setups, including hitch trailers, commercial trailers, gooseneck trailers, boats, and door padlocks. Every single lock that AMPLOCK offers receives at least 4.5-star ratings on Amazon and other major e-retailers. They are know more for their strong, rust-resistant coupler hitch locks.

• Best Overall: Master Lock 2866DAT
• Best Value For Money: Reese 72783 Coupler Lock
• Editor’s Choice: CURT 23518

Our obvious choice for the best trailer hitch lock is Master Lock 2866DAT . This reliable receiver lock includes the Push to Lock locking mechanism. Long-lasting, backed with limited lifetime warranty. The Weather Tough seal and water tight cap provides additional protection from moisture and dirt.

Another great option is Reese 72783 Coupler Lock – A premium coupler lock constructed with an aluminum body and heavy-duty steel lock bar. Resists picking, prying and drill outs. Guards against truck or trailer tow-away theft in storage.

Our personal choice is CURT 23518 . Made with high-strength steel construction for extra longevity. The lock is shielded against corrosion with a durable powder coat finish, while the watertight dust cap protects the internal components from the elements.

FAQs About  Trailer Hitch Locks

This is a pretty common headache for forgetful folks who forgot to separate their two hitch lock keys and keep the spare one in a secure toolbox somewhere. Many campers have successfully used bolt cutters to cut it off if there’s a gap to put them in place, or if there’s no such gaps, a hacksaw or an angle grinder and a cutting wheel or even a heat source would do the trick. Many have chosen to simply drill the lock out.  Then all that’s left to do is to buy a new lock, and remember to separate the two keys that come with your new lock to avoid repeating this mishap.

Since the hitch lock will be exposed to varying temperatures and outdoor elements at all times, even the best trailer hitch locks would wear out over time and seizing can occur. When this happens, you might not be able to get the key all the way in, and when you finally do, the key might not turn at all. And the only thing trailer owners can do is to cut the lock off and replace it with a new lock. This is actually a common problem on most trailer hitch locks when they sit for months on end without any use or maintenance. Like everything else, you will need to give your trailer hitch lock proper maintenance and some protection from the harsh weather wherever possible to prolong the life of your unit. In the first place, keep the keyhole covered with the replacement dust cover over the keyhole. In addition, spray down some auto-part lubricant in the keyhole every few months to keep it nicely greased and protected from corrosion, and after that, insert the key and turn the lock core back and forth a few times with your scheduled greasing.  If you want the most weather-proof trailer hitch lock, consider one with a ball-bearing design, which will less likely seize up over time.

Yes, many campers have used a trailer hitch lock instead of a hitch pin and it will work just fine for towing a trailer or a boat. The hitch lock might not have an official rating so try to contact the manufacturer to inquire in details, but in many cases, the hitch lock’s towing capacity can even exceed those of the towing vehicle or of the trailer hitch.

For coupler locks, the diameter of the ball on the coupler lock must match the diameter of your hitch ball; that’s the only measurement you need to make to ensure compatibility. Meanwhile, if you’re buying a receiver hitch lock, the lock size you need will depend wholly on the hitch class on your towing vehicle.  There are five classes for the hitches on towing vehicles as well as recreational vehicles. The class of your hitch will decide the size of the pins on the receiver lock. A class I or a class II hitch will require a 1-1/4 inch receiver lock. A class III, class IV or class V hitch will require a 2 inch receiver lock. Of course, you can always directly contact your tow vehicle’s manufacturer to confirm the appropriate size of a compatible trailer hitch lock. And to double-check to make sure the receiver lock you’re planning to buy will fit your hitch snugly, it’s recommended that you measure the overall width of the outside of the receiver on your tow vehicle at the hitch pin hole. Then, make sure the inside width of the receiver lock you want is at least as wide as the width measurement you just made.

If a single hitch lock is not enough for your peace of mind, then you can look for the best trailer hitch lock that will allow you to use a padlock on top as an extra layer of security. If you use a couple lock for securing your trailer when it’s parked and stored in the off-season, you can also double up by adding a hitch pin lock to the existing coupler lock.  Also, when your trailer is parked, some wheel stabilizers or wheel chock locks or clamps can keep the tires from moving and thus also helps in keeping your trailer from being stolen, since the thief will need to work harder to drive away with your trailer and it will look obvious that the trailer is being tampered with by someone other than its owner.

Also in  RV Hitch & Tow , we’re providing thorough reviews and buying guides which help RV campers have peace of minds choosing the  best fifth wheel hitches for short bed trucks , best weight distribution hitches , best removable fifth wheel hitches , best anti-rattle hitch devices , best electric tongue jacks , best tow dollies  on the market today.

About Chris Coleman

Chris Coleman is an interesting travel blogger and outdoor photographer with a great sense of humor. He owns an RV Accessories shop in New York City so he has the knowledge necessary to provide thorough reviews and give advice on how to choose the right products for RV travel. He puts all that RV knowledge and experience to good use in his sharing posts. Besides product buying guides/reviews, Chris also writes informative articles, how-to articles and RV camping guides in his own interesting viewpoint. Chris’s blog is one of the most reliable information sources for RV campers no matter if you're an expert or a determined beginner.

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Written by William D. Stinson • June 1, 2023 • 7:46 pm • RV Gear/Accessories

5 Best Trailer Hitch Locks For Maximum Security

It doesn’t take much for a thief to hook up to your camper and drive off with it, especially if you leave the hitch unlocked.

Whether you store your RV in a secure storage facility or leave it unattended at the campground, thieves will find a way to steal what you have. While most RV owners are genuinely honest people, that’s not the case for a lot of people.

There is always someone around that wants what you have worked for, and they will take it if it’s easy to steal.

Fortunately, trailer hitch locks do a great job of deterring a would-be thief from hooking up and driving off with your travel trailer. While nothing is 100% fool-proof, heavy-duty hitch locks provide some piece of mind. So you won’t have to worry about someone stealing your rig.

In this article, we cover the 5 best hitch locks for your travel trailer. And we provide a few key considerations to keep in mind when deciding which hitch lock works best for your needs.

This article may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a commission on qualifying sales at no extra cost to you.

At A Glance

What is a trailer hitch lock, quality of materials, weather resistance, coupler hitch locks, receiver hitch locks, latch pin locks.

• Best Overall Trailer Hitch Lock
• Best Budget-Friendly Trailer Hitch Lock
• Best Universal Fit Trailer Hitch Lock
• Most Secure Trailer Hitch Lock
• Best Size-Specific Trailer Hitch Lock

Final Thoughts

Best Overall Trailer Hitch Lock – Master Lock Universal Trailer Lock

Best Budget-Friendly Trailer Hitch Lock – Reese TowPower Coupler Lock

Best Universal Fit Hitch Lock – Trimax UMAX100

Most Secure Hitch Lock – Proven Industries Model 2516 Trailer Lock

Best Size-Specific Trailer Hitch Lock – AMPLOCK U-BRP2516 Travel Trailer Coupler Lock

A trailer hitch lock is a device that helps secure your trailer to prevent theft. The primary function of a coupler hitch lock is to prevent a thief from gaining access to your travel trailer’s coupler and potentially driving off with your rig.

Things To Consider When Choosing A Trailer Hitch Lock

When choosing the best hitch lock for your camper, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind.

When choosing the best trailer hitch lock for your camper, keep in mind there are two main materials used, aluminum and hardened-steel.

A hardened-steel material is much more durable and harder to cut than aluminum. However, aluminum is more lightweight.

A trailer hitch lock will spend the vast majority of its lifespan outdoors. While most hitch locks are specifically designed to handle the elements, some are more weather resistant than others. A lock with a powder-coated finish with withstand the harsh weather and be more resistant to rust than others.

Not all hitches are the same size. Depending on the size and weight of your travel trailer, you will either have a 2” or a 2 5/16” coupler.

When choosing the best trailer hitch for your needs, choose a universal lock that fits multiple sizes or a lock that is size-specific.

A brightly colored or large hitch lock is easy to spot from a distance. This can discourage a potential thief from even attempting to steal your trailer.

Trailer hitch locks are available in a wide variety of prices. You can spend anywhere from $20 all the way up to over $200.

Many trailer hitch locks are extremely affordable and are built with strong, durable materials. In fact, some of these hitches will fall around the $30 – $50 range. Some higher priced hitch locks are more rugged and may include multiple locking mechanisms.

The ultimate decision on price is going to depend on your budget and what level of security you’re looking for.

Types Of Hitch Locks

When considering trailer hitch locks, keep in mind there are three main types of locks, coupler hitch locks, receiver hitch locks, and latch pin locks. Each type of hitch lock has different uses, however, in this article we are focusing on coupler type trailer hitch locks.

A coupler hitch lock is used when you don’t have your travel trailer connected to your tow vehicle. These hitch locks are generally designed with a ball that fits into the tongue of the camper and is secured by a U-shaped bar.

A hitch pin lock slides into the hole where your ball hitch or weight distribution hitch connects to your tow vehicle. This type of hitch lock prevents thieves from disconnecting your entire hitch from your tow vehicle.

A receiver hitch lock can also be used to secure bicycle racks, cargo carriers, or anything else that attaches to your tow vehicle through the receiver hitch.

A latch pin lock locks the trailer hitch latch in place preventing it from being lifted. These locks are especially useful when towing your travel trailer. Once you have your camper connected to your tow vehicle, simply lock the latch pin to prevent it from lifting while you’re on the road.

5 Best Travel Trailer Hitch Locks

Whether you’re securing a travel trailer, utility trailer, or car dolly, there is a trailer hitch lock that will suit your needs.

1. Best Overall Trailer Hitch Lock

We chose the Master Lock Universal Trailer Hitch Lock for the best overall because of brand recognition, overall construction, and the universal fit.

The bright red color of this hitch lock can be seen from a distance to let would-be thieves know that your travel trailer is protected. In addition, Master Lock designed this hitch lock with an advanced locking mechanism that is designed to resist picking and prying.

For added security, this hitch lock can only be opened using the set of keys that are included. What this means is that Master makes different keys for each individual lock.

This universal trailer hitch lock fits all sizes of trailer couplers, including 1-7/8”, 2”, and 2-5/16”.

The Master Universal Trailer Hitch Lock is durable and corrosion-resistant to withstand the harshest of climates.

Some users have complained that this hitch lock can be a bit loose on smaller couplers and the locking mechanism may freeze in the winter making it difficult to unlock.

• Universal Fit
• Bright Red Color
• Corrosion Resistant
• Locking Mechanism May Freeze In Cold Weather
• May Be lose On Smaller Couplers

2. Best Budget-Friendly Trailer Hitch Lock

If you’re looking for a budget friendly hitch lock for your travel trailer, look no further than the Reese TowPower Coupler Lock .

Not only is this coupler lock affordable and durable, but it also features a bright yellow color that easy recognizable from a distance.

The Reese TowPower Coupler Lock features eleven locking positions and is compatible many coupler sizes, including 1-7/8”, 2”, and the standard 2-5/16” for most travel trailers.

The design of this lock features a U-shaped bar that locks over the top of your trailer tongue. And locking bar is constructed of heavy-duty steel and the body of this hitch lock is made from lightweight aluminum.

Like the Master Lock mentioned above, this trailer hitch lock is resistant to picking, prying, and even drill-outs.

• Heavy-Duty Steel Locking Bar
• Bright Yellow Color
• Corrosion-Resistant
• Aluminum Body
• May Fit Loose On Smaller Couplers

3. Best Universal Fit Trailer Hitch Lock

The Trimax UMAX100 trailer hitch lock is a great option for the best universal fit trailer hitch lock.

The Trimax trailer hitch locks fits coupler sizes 1-7/8”, 2”, and 2-7/16” and features a spring loaded, seven-pin key for maximum security.

This trailer hitch lock also features a lock cover to keep dirt, dust, and grime out of the lock. This makes it easier for the user to lock and unlock over time.

The housing on this high-quality lock is made from a ballistic-grade nylon that is designed to handle impacts and any type of weather.

The rugged locking mechanism is constructed to resist picking, prying, and dill-outs.

One downside of the UMAX100 is the ballistic-grade nylon housing. Many users complain that it feels like a cheap plastic.

• Covered Key Hole
• Plastic Housing

4. Most Secure Trailer Hitch Lock

The Proven Industries Model 2516 Trailer Lock is hands down one of the most secure hitch locks on the market. While the price point is high, what you get is a well-made, high quality, easy-to-use hitch lock to secure your travel trailer.

This hitch lock is made from hardened steel and is designed to withstand any abuse a thief could throw at it. This includes hammers, crowbars, and even power tools.

The interior locking mechanism is designed to be virtually impossible to pick. In addition, any lock picking attempted on this hitch lock will be difficult due to the location of the lock.

This particular model hitch lock from Proven Industries is specifically made to fit 2-5/16” trailer couplers, however, the Model 2178 is made to fit most 2” trailer couplers.

• Made In The USA
• Extremely Secure
• Heavy-Duty Construction
• Puck Lock May Need To Be Replaced

5. Best Size-Specific Trailer Hitch Lock

If you are looking for a travel trailer hitch lock that is specifically designed for a 2-5/16” trailer coupler, the AMPLOCK U-BRP2516 is right down your alley.

Although this trailer hitch lock is pricey, it is extremely well built and secure, like the hitch lock mentioned above.

In addition to its innovative, two-piece design, this hitch lock features its own “ball” that fits securely into your trailer coupler. The second piece of the lock is then secured around the neck of the hitch to lock both pieces into place.

The locking mechanism is located on the bottom of the lock which makes it more difficult for a thief to tamper with, but it also may make it more difficult for the user to lock and unlock.

The two pieces of this hitch lock are made with stainless steel and ductile iron for maximum durability and security. Plus, these materials are corrosion and weather resistant so this lock will be around for a while.

• Size-Specific
• Stainless-Steel & Ductile Iron Construction
• Two Piece Design May Be Difficult For Some Users

Travel trailer hitch locks are just one level of security you can add to prevent your rig from being stolen. Nothing is 100% thief-proof, but since these people are looking for a quick, easy score, making it more difficult for them to take what is yours is the key to securing your things.

Travel trailer hitch locks are a visual deterrent and can be very difficult to remove without a key. They also provide you with a little piece of mind knowing that your camper is secure when you leave it unattended.

William is a U.S. Air Force veteran who currently lives on the Texas Gulf Coast with his wonderful wife of 26 years and their two furry companions, Gus and LuLu. As an outdoor and RV enthusiast, William loves to spend his free time taking road trips and spending as much time as possible at the campground with the family in their 2018 Dutchmen Kodiak 201QB travel trailer.

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Trailer Hitch Lock Reviews

1. masterlock universal 389-dat: best trailer hitch lock, 2. reese towpower coupler lock: budget pick, 3. masterlock 377-dat: best lock design, 4. curt 5/8-inch pin trailer hitch lock: best locking hitch pin, 5. reese towpower heavy duty: best heavy-duty lock.

• Buyers Guide

Best Trailer Hitch Locks: Bottom Line

Trailer hitch lock: faq, best trailer hitch locks.

Ben Kasierski is a North Carolina native who covers the latest automotive and motorcycle products. He has tested hundreds of car detailing products – including tire shines,  car wash soaps, and full detailing kits – as well as gadgets to make life easier for the everyday driver like key finders and GPS trackers.

Motor1 Reviews Team Take :

• The best trailer hitch locks in 2024 are the MasterLock Universal 389-DAT, Reese Towpower Coupler Lock, MasterLock 377-DAT, Curt ⅝-inch Pin Lock, and Reese Towpower Heavy-Duty Lock.
• Most trailer hitch locks cost between $20 and $30. Costlier locks tend to be made of sturdier materials.
• Rust- and corrosion-resistant trailer hitch locks backed by long warranties tend to last the longest.

A top Amazon pick with unbeatable value.

An adjustable lock with bright warning colors.

A trailer tongue lock with adjustable options.

A high-quality hitch pin lock for any 2.0-inch receiver.

A very sturdy upgrade to ward off tough opponents.

Imagine you’re on a camping trip and you’ve come back from a hike only to discover your mobile trailer is gone. Unfortunately, trailers are still susceptible to theft like any other item, but this is where the best trailer hitch locks can come to the rescue. Trailer hitch locks prevent your trailer from being coupled to another vehicle. There are many good reasons to use such a lock, with peace of mind being the first and foremost. And at a fraction of the cost of replacing a trailer, investing in a great trailer hitch lock has long-term benefits.

Our product review team has tested and reviewed the top five best trailer hitch locks on the market. We break down everything from fit to durability to give you the most comprehensive review possible. Although many locks act as a preventative measure, no lock is absolutely theft-proof and each has its pros and cons.

The trailer hitch locks in this article went through two rounds of reviews. We started by searching Amazon for top products, looking at factors like Prime shipping eligibility, customer ratings, Amazon superlatives, and prices.

The locks that best met these standards were ordered by our team for testing. A team member tested each product on a car, taking note of how well the lock fit our trailer, its accessibility, and its value. Each trailer hitch lock was given a rating out of 5.0 stars based on these criteria.

What Is The Best Trailer Hitch Lock?

We named the MasterLock Universal 389-DAT, Reese Towpower Coupler Lock, MasterLock 377-DAT, Curt ⅝-inch Pin Lock, and Reese Towpower Heavy-Duty Lock as the best-rated trailer hitch locks on the market in 2024.

*Because cost data fluctuates, the prices in the table above are approximate values that our team regularly updates.

Trailer Hitch Lock Ratings: Our Testing Process

After looking at factors such as lock design, customer ratings, and prices, our product testing team ordered the trailer hitch locks that best met these standards. A team member tested each product, taking note of value, fit, and accessibility. Each trailer hitch lock was given a rating out of 5.0 stars based on these criteria.

Learn more about how we tested trailer hitch locks here .

• Cost : Around $30
• Amazon review score : 4.7 out of 5.0 based on more than 15,000 ratings
• Fit : Most 1 7/8-, 2.0-, and 2 5/16-inch couplers
• Rust and corrosion-resistant
• Bright red deterrent color
• Limited lifetime warranty
• Can be purchased in one-, three-, or four-pack

MasterLock Universal 389-DAT Review

The MasterLock Universal 389-DAT is the ideal choice for anyone who needs to securely park their trailer and wants peace of mind when doing so. And with its steel construction at a reasonable price, the 389-DAT provides unmatched security.

You can see how the MasterLock Universal 389-DAT performed in each of our testing categories below: 

MasterLock Universal 389-DAT: Pros And Cons

Below are the pros and cons of the MasterLock Universal:

MasterLock Universal 389-DAT: Our Experience

Based on our experience, we rated the MasterLock Universal 389-DAT lock at 5.0 out of 5.0 stars. It is strongly built but also accessible in a pinch, plus we admire its ease of use and security at a competitive price.

Accessibility

Using the provided keys, the 389-DAT opened and closed with little hassle. We had no problems attaching and removing the lock from our trailer coupler. A drawback, however, is the keys to the 389-DAT are not unique, so there is a possibility that a key from another 389-DAT could open your lock.

The 389-DAT fit snugly to our coupler and required little adjustment to create a sealed lock.

Made with forged steel and chrome, the 389-DAT is made of sturdy materials yet didn’t break the bank.

MasterLock Universal 389-DAT: What Customers Are Saying

Most of the positive reviews focus on the 389-DAT’s easy installation. There are also a high number of customers who claimed thieves attempted to steal their trailers but couldn’t due to the 389-DAT’s superior durability. Despite the high number of positive ratings, negative reviews highlighted the 389-DAT’s poor performance in harsh wintry environments.

• Cost : Around $15
• Amazon review score : 4.6 out of 5.0 based on more than 16,900 reviews
• Fit : Most 1 7/8-, 2.0-, and 2 5/16-in. couplers
• Aluminum body and heavy-duty steel lock bar
• Adjustable ratchet design
• Bright yellow theft-deterrent color
• One-year limited warranty

Reese Towpower Coupler Lock Review

Reese is a dependable name in the lock industry, so it stands to reason that the Towpower Coupler Lock is a worthwhile investment. This lock should help prevent anyone from tampering with your trailer.

You can see how the Reese Towpower Coupler Lock performed in each of our testing categories below: 

Reese Towpower Coupler Lock: Pros And Cons

Below are the pros and cons of the Reese Towpower:

Reese Towpower Coupler Lock: Our Experience

We had a positive experience with the Towpower Coupler, which led us to rate it at 4.7 stars. It has many similarities with our top overall pick for best trailer hitch locks but loses some points for its materials and fit.

The Towpower Coupler’s adjustable arm made fastening the lock to our trailer quick and painless. Both keys worked well, too.

Despite the Towpower Coupler’s ratchet arm, it did not fit as snugly to our hitch as we had hoped. It rattled slightly since the trailer ball was a bit small for the receiver, yet was nowhere close to being removable.

While its price is extremely competitive with other locks, the body of the Towpower Coupler is aluminum. This metal is more prone to weather damage and scratching than others, so its long-term value may not be as high as locks made with stainless steel.

Reese Towpower Coupler Lock: What Customers Are Saying

Positive reviews acknowledge the Towpower Coupler as a great theft deterrent. Users are pleased that this lock is easy to use and offers effective security.

One of the most common complaints that customers have about the Towpower Coupler lock is about sizing. Reese insists the distance between the ball mount and lock shackle holes is 4.5 in., yet some Amazon customers say their locks don’t fit due to shorter-than-advertised width.

• Amazon review score : 4.6 out of 5.0 based on more than 1,700 ratings
• Zinc nickel-plated body for reduced rust and corrosion
• Front access keyway
• Advanced locking mechanism

MasterLock 377-DAT Review

The MasterLock 377-DAT is perfectly designed for easy access and a very tight fit with little adjustments. Our product review team recommends this lock to anyone willing to spend a few extra bucks for increased durability and a stable fit.

You can see how the MasterLock 377-DAT performed in each of our testing categories below: 

MasterLock 377-DAT: Pros And Cons

Below are the pros and cons of the MasterLock 377-DAT:

MasterLock 377-DAT: Our Experience

The 377-DAT earned a rating of 4.6 stars for its accessibility and comfortable fit. It is relatively expensive compared to other locks.

The front access keyway and adjustable locking positions made attaching the device to our trailer no problem. Unfortunately, like the other locks we tested, the 377-DAT can be accessed by anyone who bought the same lock and has keys.

The adjustable setting on the 377-DAT made securing a tight fit incredibly easy. Once attached properly, we weren’t able to slide the lock around or move it in any way.

The 377-DAT is a bit more expensive than other locks of similar value. Its zinc body may be strong but is more susceptible to wear and tear over time.

MasterLock 377-DAT: What Customers Are Saying

There are countless positive reviews that praise the 377-DAT’s strength. Some customers even claim to have caught potential thieves unsuccessfully attempting to steal their trailers because the 377-DAT wouldn’t budge against hammer blows. A few of the negative reviews wished the 377-DAT had chrome plating instead of zinc for extra protection against the weather.

• Cost : Around $20
• Amazon review score : 4.5 out of 5.0 based on more than 16,400 ratings
• Fit : 5/8-in. diameter pin with nearly 3.0-in. usable pin length
• Barbell-style body
• Fits 2.0-in. receivers
• Watertight keyhole dust cap
• Black powder coat finish

Curt ⅝-Inch Pin Trailer Hitch Lock Review

The Curt 5/8-Inch Pin Trailer Hitch Lock can keep your camper or travel trailer safely secured for parking overnight. The unlocking mechanism can be sticky, though, so be careful when detaching it.

You can see how the Curt ⅝-Inch Pin Trailer Hitch Lock performed in each of our testing categories below:

Curt 5/8-inch pin trailer hitch lock: pros and cons.

Below are the pros and cons of the Curt 5/8-Inch Pin Trailer Hitch Lock:

Curt ⅝-Inch Pin Trailer Hitch Lock: Our Experience

While the Curt Hitch Pin installs with no fuss and has an incredibly simple yet sturdy design, it is difficult to remove and scratches easily. We give it a 4.5-star rating overall.

Linking the Curt Hitch Pin Lock through our trailer mount wasn’t very difficult, and the pin locked easily. When trying to remove it, though, the lock wouldn’t come unfastened and required a few tries before we were able to get it off. Like the other locks in this review, it can be accessed with keys purchased from the same model.

This lock was not adjustable, so it’s one-size-fits-all or bust. It fit effortlessly into our trailer receiver but did have some wiggle room that caused rattling.

In terms of price, the Curt Hitch Pin is reasonable. Its carbon steel body is incredibly strong as well as rust and corrosion-resistant, so it should have a long life.

Curt ⅝-Inch Pin Trailer Hitch Lock: What Customers Are Saying

A common subject among the reviews is not the quality of the lock, but the keys that come with it. There are multiple complaints that the keys are made of plastic and break off too easily inside the Curt Hitch Pin when trying to lock it. Other reviewers are not happy with the dust cover, which they also say fell off of their locks quickly after buying. Some reviews claim that adding O-washers to each side of the lock improves its fit significantly.

• Cost : Around $45
• Amazon review score : 4.4 out of 5.0 based on more than 4,200 ratings

Reese Towpower Heavy Duty Review

For an upgrade to the Coupler, the Reese Towpower Heavy-Duty Lock is our top pick. It’s designed to withstand nearly any attempt to break it and is backed by the Reese name for quality assurance.

You can see how the Reese Towpower Heavy Duty performed in each of our testing categories below: 

Reese Towpower Heavy Duty: Pros And Cons

Below are the pros and cons of the Reese Towpower Heavy Duty:

Reese Towpower Heavy Duty: Our Experience

Our review team gives the Heavy-Duty Lock a 4.5-star rating for its hefty design. It was very difficult to take off of our testing trailer due to its sticky keyhole, but its superior strength is worth noting.

Bolting the Heavy-Duty Lock to our trailer was easy, but removing it proved to be a challenge. The keys got easily jammed and took careful finagling before we could safely remove them without damaging the lock. This lock can also be accessed by anyone who has a key from the same model.

This lock fit snugly over the receiver and was able to secure a tight fit thanks to its thick steel arm. The hitch ball was still slightly too small.

Its price competes with those of similar locks, but it has an aluminum body that may not hold as well over time. This means the Heavy-Duty lock is also prone to weather damage if not treated properly.

Reese Towpower Heavy Duty: What Customers Are Saying

Top reviews for the Heavy-Duty Lock are mixed. Some customers believe it to be a very well-designed lock that offers improved protection against thieves, while others claim their locks broke on first use. The most common complaint is about the quality of the keys and locking mechanism. However, the vast majority of reviews are positive and praise the Heavy Duty Lock’s construction.

Trailer Hitch Lock Buying Guide

Before you start shopping for trailer hitch locks, it can be helpful to know about the different types of locks, materials, and more.

Compare Trailer Hitch Locks

What is a trailer hitch lock.

Trailer hitch locks are designed to prevent thieves from stealing your trailer by attaching the hitch to their own vehicle. There are three types of trailer hitch locks: coupler, pin, and wheel.

• Coupler hitch locks lock into the receiver on a trailer so a trailer cannot be attached.
• A pin or receiver hitch lock secures the receiver to the trailer hitch so the two can’t be separated.
• Wheel locks act as a boot that prevents a trailer from rolling.

Lock Material

Many trailer hitch locks are made of heavy-duty steel or other corrosion-resistant metals to improve security and durability. Locks made with materials such as aluminum should be considered carefully because of their potential to rust when exposed to grime and other contaminants, which decreases their strength.

Unlike combination padlocks, trailer hitch locks are secured with a unique key. The most common hitch locks are designed to fit 1 7/8-, 2.0-, and 2 5/16-in. trailer hitch mounts. These are generally Class I or II trailers, but most of these are designed to fit Class III and above, as well.

Along with sharing helpful purchasing tips for those interested in purchasing a trailer hitch lock, we reviewed the top trailer hitch locks in 2024:

• Best Trailer Hitch Lock : MasterLock Universal 389-DAT
• Budget Pick : Reese Towpower Heavy-Duty Lock
• Best Fitting : MasterLock 377-DAT
• Best Locking Hitch Pin : Curt 5/8-Inch Pin Trailer Hitch Lock
• Best Heavy-Duty Lock : Towpower Coupler Lock

Below are some common frequently asked questions about trailer hitch locks:

What are the best trailer hitch locks made of?

Dependable trailer hitch locks are built with heavy-duty materials such as stainless steel, forged steel, chrome, or similar metals. These work best not only because they’re tough to break, but can repel water for improved rust and corrosion resistance.

What’s the difference between a coupler lock and a receiver lock?

A coupler lock attaches to the coupler of a trailer to prevent it from being attached to anything else. A receiver lock hitches to the receiver to prevent a trailer from being separated from its tow vehicle. Coupler locks are generally larger than receiver locks and more expensive but can protect your trailer when it stands alone.

How do I know if a trailer hitch lock will fit my trailer?

Many trailer hitch locks on the market are known as universal coupler locks, which are designed to fit almost any 1 7/8-, 2.0-, and 2 5/16-inch mounts. Odds are if you have a trailer for day-to-day use such as transporting boats or small campers, these locks will fit. Always check your trailer’s guide, though, to be sure your trailer fits these required measurements.

Full Trailer Hitch Lock Testing Methodology

We tested each trailer hitch lock by connecting it to a trailer hitch, testing the fit, and removing the lock. In handling each lock, we assessed both fit and accessibility.

Our fit score represents how well each lock fits the trailer hitch. Those that fit snugly with no rattling earned more points in this category. Locks that were loose, jangly, or could be maneuvered on the hitch while attached lost points in this category.

Our accessibility rating is based on how easy the lock is to remove using its given set of keys. Locks with easily accessed keyholes that open fluidly score best in this category. Locks use points if the keys do not function smoothly or the keyhole is difficult to access.

Each lock’s value is based on its performance as a lock as well as how long it can be expected to last. Trailer hitch locks score better in this category if they include long warranties, are made from durable materials, and are relatively low-cost.

How We Score Products

Every trailer hitch lock we test is given a score between 1.0 and 5.0 stars in each category. Here’s what those star ratings mean in concrete terms:

• 5.0 Stars : A 5.0-star rating means a trailer hitch lock is among the best in a category. It can be attached and removed seamlessly, or it is made with corrosion-resistant materials and backed by a lifetime warranty.
• 4.0 Stars : A 4.0-star rating means a trailer hitch lock performs better than average in a category. It can be attached and removed without effort, is made with strong materials, is backed by a 5+ year warranty, or is relatively inexpensive.
• 3.0 Stars : A 3.0-star rating indicates what is average or typical for a trailer hitch lock, based on our testing experience. It can be attached and removed reliably, but with some effort, or is averagely-priced given the materials and warranty.
• 2.0 Stars : A 2.0-star rating indicates the trailer hitch lock performs poorer than the average silicone wiper blade. It is hard to install and remove or it is especially expensive considering the materials.
• 1.0 Star : A 1.0-star rating indicates that the trailer hitch lock performs well below expectations in a category. It does not fit most trailer locks, is very difficult to remove, or is unlikely to deter theft.

Why Trust Motor1.com

Each year, we test over 350 auto products on vehicles and in our testing lab. Our team of product testers thoroughly researches top products, unboxes and puts our hands on each component, and tests the items on real vehicles before making recommendations to readers.

We publish hundreds of product and service reviews to bring car enthusiasts detailed guides on automotive tools, detailing kits, car seats, pet products, and much more. For more information on our testing methodology and how we evaluate every product, check out our methodology page here .

*Data accurate at time of publication. Products subject to availability.

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Hitch Pin Locks: Everything You Need To Know

Hitch pin locks provide extra security and protection from thieves, whether you're towing a trailer or pulling your camper for a family road trip.

When you're not using your trailer or camper, you can use your hitch lock to protect a hitch-mounted cargo carrier when you need extra cargo. If you're looking for an easy way to keep your trailer and possessions safe, check out some of our favorite choices for an ideal hitch pin lock for your vehicle.

Ohuhu Hitch Lock, Ohuhu Receiver Hitch Pin Lock - 1/2

CZC AUTO CZC AUTO Trailer Tongue Coupler Lock, Dia 1/4 Inch, 2-1/2 Inch Span Fits Latch-Type Coupler for Towing Boat Truck RV Car Trailer

METOWARE METOWARE Trailer Hitch Receiver Pin Lock, 5/8

CZC AUTO CZC AUTO Hitch Receiver Pin Lock, Trailer Receiver Lock with 5/8

What Are Hitch Pin Locks?

Hitch pin locks connect your receiver and trailer to provide additional security. These pins lock in place to protect your belongings from potential theft by ensuring that your trailer stays attached to your trailer hitch until you unlock it. You can also use a hitch pin lock when your trailer isn't connected to your vehicle to prevent other people from connecting their vehicle to the trailer and driving away with it. Some of the benefits of hitch pin locks include:

• Additional protection against theft.
• Ease of use.
• Discreet appearance.

Types of Trailer Hitch Locks

There are two main types of hitch pin locks: receiver-style and coupler. Choosing the right option for your vehicle is important because this provides the most protection against potential thieves.

Receiver-style Hitch Locks

Coupler hitch locks.

A coupler hitch lock can be used to protect your trailer from being stolen whether it's hitched to your vehicle or unhitched. The U-shaped lock makes it difficult for someone without the key to hook their towing vehicle into the hitch because it fits over the coupler on your trailer's tongue. If you plan to store your trailer or leave it unattached from your vehicle, look into purchasing a coupler hitch lock. We recommend the CZC AUTO Trailer Tongue Coupler Lock made with high-quality steel to prevent corrosion. The watertight rubber cap provides protection from rain, snow, ice, and dirt, making this coupler hitch lock an excellent choice.

How To Choose a Hitch Pin Lock

Consider these factors when selecting the right hitch pin lock for your vehicle.

Trailer Class

When purchasing a hitch pin lock, make sure it's the right size for the trailer you plan to tow. Most trailer locks use 1/2-inch or 5/8-inch pins, but hitches can range from Class I to Class V, so it's important to make sure the lock matches your hitch before purchasing it. A 1/2-inch pin lock pairs with a Class I or Class II trailer hitch and can tow up to 3,500 pounds. Use a 5/8-inch pin lock if you have a Class II or Class IV trailer hitch and plan to tow 10,000 pounds or more.

High-quality hitch pin locks use complex systems, such as key cylinders with four or more pins, to deter lock picking. Look for a lock that has a unique key design for maximum protection. Some manufacturers use the same key design across their entire product line, which can increase the likelihood that someone else has a key that can unlock your trailer. You can purchase a lock protective cover to absorb impact damage from hammers and crowbars. We like the CURT 23518 Black Trailer Hitch Lock because it's constructed with high-quality steel and uses a ball mount that prevents lock picking.

Look for a hitch pin lock that's weather resistant and made from high-quality hardened steel for maximum safety and durability. Products with a chrome or zinc finish can provide extra protection against rust and corrosion. While materials such as aluminum are lightweight, they're also easily damaged and provide less security. We like the METOWARE Trailer Hitch Receiver Pin Lock . This durable stainless-steel hitch pin lock comes with two sets of keys, so you always have a spare pair available. The 5/8-inch hitch pin lock design is compatible with Class II and Class IV trailer hitches and is suitable for towing up to 30,000 pounds. This product also comes with rubber snap-on caps to prevent corrosion by keeping dirt, dust, and water away from the keyhole.

Hitch pin locks are available in a wide range of prices. While some models are available for less than $20, others can cost significantly more. We recommend the CZC AUTO Hitch Receiver Pin Lock as a budget-friendly option that's easy to operate with a 360-degree rotating head. This hitch pin lock is made with carbon steel for maximum strength and includes a rubber key slot cap to prevent moisture, dust, and rust.

How to Replace/Install a Hitch Pin Lock

Disclaimer: The guidelines in this story are general and not meant to replace instructions for your specific vehicle. Please consult your owner's manual or repair guide before attempting repairs.

While the exact instructions may vary based on your trailer hitch and the hitch pin lock you choose, you can follow this general guide to install a new hitch pin lock:

• Insert the solid metal pin into your truck's receiver hitch.
• Place the locking assembly on the end of the pin.
• Lock the pin into place using the key.
• Place the rubber debris cap over the keyhole opening to prevent corrosion.

Test the hitch pin lock to ensure that it's secure, and you'll be ready to use your trailer safely.

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Effortless RVing

10 Best Trailer Hitch Locks To Prevent Theft

Are you concerned about the safety and security of your travel trailer? It’s understandable to worry about the valuable items inside your trailer being stolen by unscrupulous thieves. The good news is that you can take steps to protect your belongings and your trailer by using the best trailer hitch lock .

Finding the right lock for the travel trailer hitch can be challenging, but investing in a high-quality lock is crucial to prevent theft. Some travel trailer hitch locks in the market are ineffective and can be easily broken by heavy tools, putting your trailer and items at risk. However, you can find durable locks with advanced locking mechanisms that provide security against theft attempts.

When choosing a lock for travel trailer hitch , you must consider several factors, such as the locking system’s effectiveness and durability. Choosing a lock that fits your specific trailer model and size is essential to ensure optimal security. Let’s find out the best theft proof trailer locks on the market.  

What Is A Trailer Hitch Lock?

Why you should use a trailer hitch lock, 1. reese towpower coupler lock, 2. master trailer lock – universal size, 3. curt black trailer hitch lock, 4. master lock trailer hitch lock, 5. reese towpower heavy duty coupler lock, 6. amplock rv/trailer coupler lock, 7. equipment lock brhl – steel ball and ring hitch lock, 8. czc auto trailer hitch coupler lock, 9. trimax universal dual purpose coupler lock, 10. proven industries trailer lock, how to select a trailer hitch lock.

A trailer hitch lock is a security device designed to prevent unauthorized access to your trailer hitch. It is typically made of heavy-duty metal and come with a weather-resistant coating to prevent rust and corrosion. Being placed over the hitch’s opening and secured with a lock, this device prevents anyone from attaching their vehicle to your trailer and driving away with it.

Trailer hitch locks can also serve as a visual deterrent, as potential thieves are less likely to attempt to steal a trailer with a visible lock. Some trailer hitch locks also have additional features, such as a built-in alarm that will sound if someone tries to tamper with the lock. Overall, a trailer hitch lock is a simple yet effective way to protect your trailer and provide peace of mind while it’s parked and unattended.

There are different types of trailer hitch locks available on the market, each with its own unique design and level of security. Here are some of the most common types of trailer hitch locks:

Coupler Locks: Coupler locks are the most common type of trailer hitch lock. They work by securing the coupler of the trailer hitch to the ball of the towing vehicle, preventing someone from hitching the trailer to another vehicle. Coupler locks come in different shapes and sizes, and some models are adjustable to fit different coupler sizes.

Receiver Locks: Receiver locks are designed to secure the trailer hitch receiver to the towing vehicle’s hitch. They are ideal for locking a ball mount or bike rack into the hitch receiver. Receiver locks come in different sizes and can be keyed alike with other locks, making it easy to use the same key for multiple locks.

Hitch Pin Locks: Hitch pin locks are designed to secure the hitch pin of the trailer to the hitch receiver of the towing vehicle. They work by inserting the hitch pin through the hitch receiver and locking it into place. Hitch pin locks are ideal for securing a ball mount or bike rack to the towing vehicle.

Latch Pin Locks: A latch pin lock is a type of trailer hitch lock that is designed to secure the latch pin of a trailer coupler. The latch pin is the component that secures the coupler onto the hitch ball of a towing vehicle. A latch pin lock works by inserting a locking pin into the latch mechanism and securing it in place with a key. This prevents the latch from opening and releasing the trailer from the hitch ball. Latch pin locks are relatively easy to install and offer a high level of security for your trailer. They are compatible with most types of trailer couplers, including those with a lever or a trigger latch mechanism.

Selecting the right type of trailer hitch lock depends on the type of trailer hitch you have and the level of security you need. Coupler locks and receiver locks are the most common types of trailer hitch locks, but there are other options available, including hitch or latch pin locks.

Consider the level of security you need, the type of trailer hitch you have, and the features of each lock to select the right one for your needs.

Trailer hitch locks are an essential security device that can provide a variety of benefits for trailer owners. In this answer, we will discuss the various benefits of trailer hitch locks in detail.

Theft prevention: The primary benefit of a trailer hitch lock is to prevent theft. It provides an effective way to secure your trailer from theft when it’s not in use. Trailer hitch locks prevent unauthorized access to your trailer hitch, making it difficult for thieves to steal your trailer. This security device is an affordable way to deter potential thieves from stealing your trailer, and it offers peace of mind when leaving your trailer unattended.

Easy to use: Trailer hitch locks are easy to use and do not require any specialized tools or knowledge. They can be installed in a matter of seconds, making it convenient for trailer owners to secure their trailers quickly. With a simple click, your trailer hitch is locked, and your trailer is secure. This ease of use makes trailer hitch locks a popular choice for trailer owners who want to protect their trailers.

Wide range of compatibility: Trailer hitch locks come in different shapes and sizes, making them compatible with a wide range of trailers and hitches. They can be used with ball mounts, pintle hooks, and receiver hitches, among others. Therefore, regardless of the type of hitch on your trailer, there is a trailer hitch lock that can fit it. This compatibility ensures that you can always find a lock that is suitable for your trailer.

Affordable: Trailer hitch locks are an affordable way to protect your trailer from theft. Compared to other security devices, such as GPS tracking systems or alarms, trailer hitch locks are relatively inexpensive. This makes them accessible to trailer owners on a budget who still want to secure their trailers.

Deters potential thieves: Trailer hitch locks not only prevent theft but also serve as a visual deterrent to potential thieves. Thieves are less likely to attempt to steal a trailer that has a visible lock on the hitch. The lock signals to them that the trailer is secure, making it an unattractive target. This visual deterrent is an additional layer of protection for your trailer.

Built-in alarms: Some trailer hitch locks come with built-in alarms that activate when someone tries to tamper with the lock. These alarms can alert you and nearby people to potential theft attempts, making it easier to catch the thief or prevent the theft altogether. These alarms also serve as an added deterrent, as the noise they make can scare away potential thieves.

Protects trailer accessories: Trailer hitch locks not only protect the trailer but also the accessories that are attached to it. For example, a trailer hitch lock can prevent the theft of your bike rack or cargo carrier, which can be costly to replace. Therefore, trailer hitch locks provide an additional layer of security for your trailer accessories.

Best Trailer Hitch Locks: Top 10 Picks

Investing in the best trailer hitch lock is an excellent way to safeguard your trailer and belongings while on the road or parked. You can have peace of mind knowing that your trailer is secure and protected against theft attempts.

There are a lot of trailer ball hitch locks available on the market, but we’ve chosen 10 of them based on different locking mechanisms and appearances to suit your needs.

Are you searching for the best trailer coupler lock that provides reliable security for your RV? Look no further than the REESE Towpower Coupler Lock.

This high-quality RV hitch lock is constructed with a sturdy steel lock bar and lightweight aluminum body, ensuring your trailer hitch is secure and protected. Its resistance to prying, picking, and drills make it a reliable choice for preventing theft attempts.

One of the best features of the lock is its adjustable design, making it suitable for use with different coupler types and positions. You can easily install and adjust this lock to fit your needs, giving you added peace of mind while on the road.

• Installable within seconds
• Universal fitting design is compatible with all couplers
• Adjustable with 11 different locking positions
• Highly visible color in the dark
• Heavy-duty body 
• Thieves can easily identify where the locks located 

This model is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a reliable camper hitch lock . It fits almost any coupler, making it a versatile choice for a range of trailers. Its simple design allows easy installation and use, so you don’t struggle with complex locking mechanisms.

While it may not be the strongest lock on the market, it still provides mid-range security for your trailer and storage. Without special equipment, the thieves cannot penetrate its thick steel exterior. 

• Super easy to install within a minute
• The thick steel lock can’t be broken easily
• Good for securing storage and doors
• Unique exterior design for added security
• Fits almost all types of couplers
• Can’t resist weathering effect
• It may not fit a few coupler types

Looking for the best trailer hitch lock to secure your trailer during transportation and storage? Look no further than the CURT Black Trailer Hitch Lock. This is the best locking hitch pin that provides mid-range security and ease of use for your trailer.

The lock is compatible with most hitch types, making it a versatile option for various trailers. While it may not offer universal fitting, it still provides reliable security for your belongings.

The lock also comes with a watertight dust cap to prevent corrosion and dirt build-up, ensuring your lock stays in top condition for longer. The locking hitch pin is designed like a barbell, making it easy to use and offering an anti-theft system that will give you peace of mind while on the road.

In addition to its practical features, the CURT hitch lock is also stylish and visually appealing. Its barbell design adds a touch of sleekness to your trailer, making it a great addition to your gear.

• An impenetrable lock deters any theft
• High-strength construction with steel
• Simple and fast locking and unlocking
• The watertight mechanism prevents rust and dust
• Spare keys are included for emergencies
• Unsuitable for double-walled receiver tubes

This model from the Master Lock brand is a mid-range security lock for your trailer, RVs, and other vehicles. It has a unique shaft that can make the lock compatible with most trailer couplers.

The body is well-constructed and has a zinc coating that prevents corrosion and other weathering effects.

• Highly durable
• Safe against prying and picking
• There’ll be no rust or corrosion
• Front access lock for easy accessibility
• Ratcheting shaft allows fitting with most couplers
• Can’t resist powerful tools from pro thieves

We get another heavy-duty lock from the REESE brand at an affordable cost.  With this best trailer tongue lock , you can protect any of your trailers, RV, or any other vehicle and forget worrying.

Since this lock is ratchet designed with 11 different locking positions, there’s no chance of breaking in. Also, it has a lightweight body, so you can take it wherever you want.

• Compatible with all couplers
• There are 11 locking positions 
• It has a ratchet design
• Included keys are theft-proof
• Affordable yet super strong lock
• The unlocking mechanism doesn’t work sometimes

AMPLOCK brand offers a quite different lock compared to others on this list. It could be the best trailer hitch lock for ease of use. You only need to push a button to lock whenever needed and then unlock it with any of your keys.

In case you don’t have your keys with you, no worries. You can just unlock them with the code combination you set before.

Also, this lock offers safety features like a cylinder lock, swivel face, patented mechanism, and unique security code that offers millions of key combinations.

• The push-and-lock system is easy to use
• Super strong lock construction
• Resistant to weather elements
• Rotative lock face prevents drilling
• Swivel design prevents traction
• Can be unlocked with a key or code combination
• Doesn’t fit all types of couplers

From the Equipment Lock Company, you get the best receiver hitch lock . This lock is a good choice if you don’t have airstream trailers.

You can keep all your belongings in your camper safe. If you follow the instructions properly, it’s easy to install. And you won’t need to worry about burglars because this lock has a super solid construction that deters theft.

• Fits almost all kinds of trailers
• Solid steel body with electroplated, powder-coated finishing
• Corrosion resistance lock
• Easy to install but super hard to break in
• A protective red covering protects the lock
• Doesn’t support airstream trailers

CZC AUTO is the best trailer hitch lock if you are looking for a compact unit. You can use it for almost anything and carry it anywhere in your pocket. 

Even when you’re hiking, it’s a good option for securing your items while not making your backpack heavy.

It may not be the toughest lock on our list, but it’s secure enough for most of your business. You can fully trust this because the company offers a warranty and money-back guarantee to ensure the strength of this lock.

• Inexpensive yet durable
• Can be easily carried anywhere
• Electrophoretic finishing prevents corrosion
• Fits most of the couplers
• Burglars can’t break in easily
• Deters casual thieves only, not the professional ones

Trimax brand offers a lock that can fit any couplers. You can use it for indoor and outdoor usage, including your trailer, camper, boat, and storage.

This lock comes with 1/2-turn technology that prevents a false locking mechanism. So, you will get better security for your precious belongings.  

• Suitable for both indoor and outdoor security
• Lock can’t be broken or bend
• Can withstand drill-outs and hammer blows
• Can resist weather elements
• Fits all-size couplers
• Slides on keyhole stop dirt and grime build-up
• All keys are the same for the same model; burglar can break in this way

This trailer lock from Proven Industries is a heavy-duty lock made with tough, hardened steel. At the same time, the black powder-coated finish makes the exterior look cool.

Burglars will have difficulty penetrating the lock and can’t copy keys for future use. They can’t even use different tools to unlock or break the lock.

• Lock can’t be broken with power tools, crowbars, or hammers
• An innovative key system won’t let anyone make a key copy
• Tough exterior yet looks so elegant
• Designed in a way to fit any type of trailer
• Only compatible with specific 2 5/16 inch couplers

A trailer hitch lock is a vital security feature that protects your trailer from theft. It secures the hitch to the trailer by locking it in place, making it difficult for someone to take the trailer without the key. Here are five steps to help you select the right trailer hitch lock:

Step 1: Determine the type of hitch

The first step in selecting a trailer hitch lock is to determine the type of hitch on your trailer. There are different types of trailer hitches, including ball hitches, pintle hitches, and fifth-wheel hitches. Each hitch has a unique locking mechanism that requires a specific type of lock. Knowing the type of hitch on your trailer will help you select the right lock.

Step 2: Choose the right size

Once you know the type of hitch, you need to choose the right size of lock. Most trailer hitch locks come in standard sizes, so you need to ensure you choose the right size for your hitch. Check the specifications of your hitch to determine the size of the lock you need.

Step 3: Consider the level of security

The level of security you need will depend on several factors, including the value of your trailer and the level of theft in your area. If you have a high-value trailer, you will need a high-security lock to prevent theft. Look for locks that are made of durable materials, such as hardened steel, and have additional features such as drill-resistant locks or multiple locking points.

Step 4: Check the compatibility with your key

If you already have a lock on your trailer hitch, you may want to consider purchasing a lock that is compatible with your key. Some manufacturers make locks that are compatible with specific key systems, allowing you to use the same key for multiple locks. This can be convenient if you have multiple trailers or need to replace a lock.

Step 5: Read reviews and compare prices

Finally, you should read reviews and compare prices to find the best trailer hitch lock for your needs. Look for locks that have positive reviews and are recommended by other trailer owners. Additionally, compare prices to find a lock that is within your budget but still offers the level of security you need.

Selecting the right trailer hitch lock is crucial for protecting your trailer from theft. By following these five steps, you can choose a lock that is compatible with your trailer hitch, the right size, and offers the level of security you need. Remember to read reviews and compare prices to find the best lock for your needs.

If you’ve already read the advantages and disadvantages of each of the products above, you might know which is the best trailer hitch lock .

However, if you don’t have much time and want quick suggestions, we’d recommend getting a lock from the AMPLOCK brand, as their lock is durable enough and has two types of unlocking systems.

Also, if you’re okay with spending more bucks, we recommend you get the lock from Proven Industries.

About The Author

David Kelly

David Kelly is the founder of Effortless RVing. He is an accomplished writer and passionate traveler who specializes in the RV lifestyle. With a keen eye for undiscovered gems and a love for adventure, David's articles provide a unique and insightful perspective on camping and RV travel. As a former Sales Manager at Camping World, David is dedicated to staying up-to-date with new trends in RV world and the ever-changing landscape of RV travel, making him a valuable resource for both experienced enthusiasts and newcomers to the lifestyle. Whether you're looking for RV product reviews, tips, inspiration, or a glimpse into the camping lifestyle, David's sharing posts are a must-read.

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I have a proven lock for a 2” coupler/ hitch. Love it!

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7 Ways To Keep Your Camper Secure From Theft

The thought of losing your valuables to thieves when traveling is nauseating, so here are some of the best precautions to keep your camper secure from theft. 

Here are seven ways to protect your camper from theft.

Upgrade All The Locks on Your Camper

If you’re a first-time owner of a new camper, upgrading its locks is crucial. It’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of the open road and new adventures, but it’s important to remember that most standard locks on campers are not very secure. They can be picked or broken into easily, risking your belongings and personal safety.

To deter potential thieves, invest in high-quality, durable locks that offer an added layer of security. Upgraded locks will protect your valuable possessions inside the camper, such as electronics, camping gear, and personal items. Still, they will also give you peace of mind and allow you to enjoy your camping experience fully. Prior to hitting the road, prioritize upgrading your camper’s locks on your preparation checklist.

Solar-Powered Motion Lights

Find solar-powered motion sensor lights that you can install on your travel trailer. With them being solar powered, you won’t have to tap into any of your electrical wirings and it’s very DIY.

Be conscious of the location and simple physics while installing the lights. If you put them on the side of your unit and they are not aerodynamic, they could rip off the moment your unit hits 55 mph. The most strategic place for these lights with the least wind resistance is on the back of your unit.

Use the same logic if you’re installing security cameras for video surveillance outside your camper. 

Some cool video security systems easily let you monitor your unit from an iPad or a laptop. 

If installing lights on your unit seems too much work, you can always go with the stick-in-the-ground solar lights and create a lit path to your unit. Some light is better than no light. 

Trailer Hitch Coupler Lock 

Trailer Hitch Latch Lock

This lock is made of high-strength steel that goes into the latch of your travel trailer. The purpose of this lock is to prevent someone from lifting the latch and connecting to your camper. These are made by different brands and come with a set of keys.

Trailer Hitch Receiver Pin Lock

You may be thinking, but how does this help secure my unit ?

Think of this as a steering wheel lock for your car. But instead of being on your steering wheel, it’s on your hitch. It helps by keeping the hitch secure on your vehicle. Without a hitch, you’re stranded and won’t be able to tow your camper anywhere.

Camper/RV Insurance

Do not skimp on insurance coverage for your camper or RV. This is essential to ensuring you are both covered and compensated if something were to go wrong. 

Make sure you cover all the bases regarding the payoff if it were to get stolen or totaled. And just like an automobile policy, ensure you’re well-equipped with comprehensive and collision insurance.

GPS Tracker

Our final item is more theft recovery than theft prevention. This small unit you can hide anywhere in your camper is the size of a cell phone and constantly transmits a GPS signal to the camper is location. 

Pros : You will be able to locate your unit by your phone or desktop with a simple login. It will tell you exactly where your camper is located.

Cons : Depending on where you are and the signal it is using will determine how long the battery will last. It operates on GPS and cell phone towers for accuracy and to ensure it always stays online. Battery charging takes up to four hours.

The unit does require a monthly, quarterly, semi-annual, or annual subscription to use the service, but it’s well worth it for the peace of mind.

The monthly rate is $19.95 but comes down to around $15 per month if you buy a year in advance. You can also turn it on and off if you will go months at a time not using your unit and it’s in storage.

If you’re renting your unit, this could be invaluable in case something were to go wrong and you had to get to your camper quickly.

Final Thoughts

Realistically, what could stop someone from backing up to your camper, hitching up, and driving away? Depending on where you are, not much. If someone wants something bad enough, they’ll find a way to get it. There are some smart crooks out there, but staying two steps ahead of them can save you a lot of time and money.

The sky is the limit on the items you can add to secure your unit. Alarm systems, wheel clamps, a keyless entry system, boot locks, wheel locks, and night-vision cameras are all available. Sometimes perception is reality, and just sticking alarm company stickers on your unit may be the only anti-theft device you need.

Whether you keep your camper at an RV park, campground, storage unit, driveway, or one of the many storage facilities in a major city, always be diligent regarding RV security. 

This article was originally published in June 2020. It was updated and republished in January 2022.

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5 Incredible Trailer Locks To Secure Every Aspect Of Your Trailer

Trailers are stolen quite a bit. They are easy to sell once stolen and are often easy to steal in the first place. You need to know how to protect your trailer because there is a high likelihood that eventually your trailer will be targeted. And if it is stolen, you are not likely to get it back. The security we are going to focus on in this article is trailer locks. More than just trailer hitch locks (but those too), we will talk about all the relevant trailer locks you might be able to make use of.

Types of Trailer Locks

It is not obvious what we are talking about when we discuss the topic of trailer locks. There are a few types of ways you can lock a trailer. Below you can find the most important types of trailer locks.

Hoop Lock – A common trailer hitch lock is something like the Reese Lock . This uses the hoop lock design, similar to what you would see with a U-lock for bicycle security or even some motorcycle security . These products work by having a ball fit into the trailer hitch and a shackle fasten over the top of the hitch. You adjust the shackle so the lock cannot be slipped off, and then no one can hook up your trailer without the key to the lock.

Or that is hope at least. Though this is an extremely popular style of trailer hitch lock, they are largely ineffective at protecting from even the most incompetent type of thief. We will get a little bit into what makes these products so poor at defending your trailer against criminals, but it has to do with mass production tactics that’s sole purpose is to keep costs low.

Hitch Pin Lock – Some people will only secure a hitch pin with a basic spring steel clip, but there are many products that work by locking the hitch pin more securely in place. This is preferred by some because they do not trust basic spring steel to hold up over time and just want a more secure fastener for their hitch pin, but many more use these locks as their sole trailer hitch lock.

If this point on the trailer security setup is removed, your trailer can be taken away and the hitch can be reattached to another vehicle. I would never recommend that this type of trailer hitch lock be your only trailer lock, but you can still get some level of security out of it. Many of the mass produced products have glaring security issues, so it is important to get the best hitch pin lock if you are planning on using one.

Trailer Door Lock – For enclosed trailers, you need to worry about more than someone taking the entire trailer. What you are storing inside could be significantly more valuable, and if you do not have the right type of trailer lock for your door, thieves can target the contents of your trailer rather than the whole trailer.

Musicians and service professionals can have copious amounts of expensive electronic equipment and power tools, both of which are easy to resell. Often what you are storing in an enclosed trailer is meant to be semi-mobile, so criminals may try to unload the trailer instead of stealing it. The biggest concern for a trailer lock you intend to put on a door is that it needs to hold up to attacks on the lock body, shackle, and the hasp it is secured to. A great padlock should be enough to achieve this.

Trailer Wheel Lock – Keeping your trailer locked up has a lot to do with hoping to immobilize it until otherwise needed. This type of trailer lock secures around the wheel/tire of a trailer and is meant to keep the assembly from being towed away if any other trailer lock is compromised. There are many types of trailer wheel locks on the market, most of which have very well known weakness, including pulling, tire deflation, wheel removal, etc.

You want a trailer wheel lock that can prevent most of these things, or at least makes them more difficult to accomplish quickly or simply. You might be able to use this type of trailer lock as your sole trailer security, but only if you use the best possible products. Included in this list are options for sole protection and security meant as an addition to other forms of security.

Great Trailer Locks

5. bolt trailer hitch lock pin.

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I will start this off by reiterating that this type of trailer hitch lock is hardly a security product, but it might be necessary to secure the trailer hitch to your vehicle. So if you are forced by circumstances to use trailer hitch lock pin, it is worth it to get the best possible security out of this trailer lock. Bolt gives you the best protection out of all the other available low-security trailer hitch locks of this ilk.

You can take a look at a rather dramatic example of the Bolt trailer hitch lock pin being attached as compared to other products . It is significantly better and will allow you more time to react or even discover that there is an issue. It might also take so much time to overwhelm that criminals get anxious and leave.

If you are going to use this form of trailer lock regardless, it is beneficial to add a security precaution that works better than the competition. Alternatively, you could use a cheaper trailer hitch pin lock, but it will provide close to no security. So I would say either don’t concern yourself with the security of this type of trailer lock, or get the Bolt Trailer Hitch Lock Pin.

Buy Bolt Trailer Hitch Lock Pin on Amazon

4. Dealkoo Wheel Lock

This type of trailer lock is perfect for people looking to add security to their trailer. It serves to have an additional level of protection and keep whatever you are securing from being rolled away easily. But here is the big disclaimer: this lock is far from perfect. It should not be your sole form of trailer security. And this should certainly not be the only trailer lock that you use.

This is the minimum protection that I would recommend if you are looking for some kind of wheel lock. There are other cheaper products that do not cover the lug nuts, so you will need to buy additional products to protect your tires from being removed. But with this type of wheel lock, you are getting all of the basics in one product.

You can find this type of lock available from other manufacturers, but they are largely the same. This type of wheel lock is also manufactured by Trimax , which is a name you may associate with quality, but it is not a great product. Save the extra money and go with something like the Dealkoo, that way you don’t feel as ripped off by the quality. It is far from perfect, but for the price, you can get some great additional security from this trailer lock.

Buy Dealkoo Wheel Lock on Amazon

3. Mul-T-lock MT5+ TR 100 “Hockey Puck”

This padlock uses the puck style lock body and shutter style shackle, which results in a lock that is hard to remove. Different from the more universal Mul-T-Lock padlock , the Mul-T-Lock puck lock works to lock the door of an enclosed trailer while also protecting the hasp that it is attached to. But you can also be used to replace the standard puck lock that you will receive with the Proven trailer lock.

What makes this trailer lock so fantastic is not only the physical shape of it but also the level of craft and effort that has gone into making it. It is unlikely that someone is going to be able to break it off the hasp, and due to the construction, cutting through the lock will take quite a bit of time. It is possible that a criminal could overwhelm this lock with brute force, but it would take highly specific tools, time, and end up making a lot of noise.

The trailer lock also has a Mul-T-lock MT5+ lock core, so there is a pretty unlikely chance that anyone is going to open the lock covertly or surreptitiously. Don’t get me wrong, this type of lock can be picked, and has been many times in the past, but there is so close to no chance that a criminal will have these skills that it is highly improbable. Not impossible to pick, but it is pretty close to impossible that someone actually will pick it.

Buy Mul-T-lock “Hockey Puck” on Amazon

2. Brahma Wheel Lock

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You might recognize the name Brahma as one of the most important figures in the history of security, or you might not. This is just to say, that the Brahma name continues to be on the cutting edge of highly advanced and effective security. The Brahma wheel lock is just another example of the quality engineering and designing that goes into making their industry defining security products.

Under the category of trailer lock, this lock falls into the subcategory of wheel lock. Meaning that you are not securing the trailer hitch, but rather keeping one or more wheels from allowing the trailer to move. Using this particular product is the best step you can take to secure your wheels. It is the highest security option, as opposed to the Dealkoo’s minimum security standards.

With this trailer lock, you get lug nut protection for your wheels, but it can also hold up to towing attacks that rely on securing a chain to the wheel lock and then pulling it with the full force of the criminal’s vehicle. You might be able to position your trailer so pulling attacks could not be tried as reliably with trailer locks like the Dealkoo, but the Brahma removes the concern altogether.

Buy Brahma Wheel Lock on Ebay

1. Proven Trailer Lock

When you compare the Proven Industries trailer lock to every other trailer hitch lock on the market, there really is hardly a comparison. It is a huge thick metal slip cover that expertly pairs with a lock type that creates no obvious weakness. The lock used to secure the steel slip cover is a puck lock, which allows you to upgrade the removable core or just choose to use the Mul-T-lock MT5+ TR 100 “Hockey Puck”.

As far as trailer hitch locks go, there is not much more than you can ask for. Basic cutting attacks that would work to open most other trailer hitch locks in seconds. Prying attacks, which are more common than cutting, are ultimately not an issue with such a trailer hitch lock as this.

You can also get this lock in several varying sizes depending on the size of your trailer hitch. This trailer hitch lock can also be closed in a way that allows for the greater protection of your security chain. The housing for this trailer hitch lock is a solid quarter inch of steel, and it is made in a way that a pair of bolt cutters is not going to do anything.

Buy Proven Trailer Lock on Amazon

Things to Consider

Signs of poor-quality.

A key indicator of lower quality is the type of metal that the lock parts are made out of. In security, you are only as strong as your weakest link, and some of these trailer locks have many different pieces. They can even try to hide metal composition by diverting focus to another part of the lock.

Maybe the shackle is hardened steel, but what about the housing? What is the securing ball made from? What about the bolt being used to fasten the ball to the housing? If any of these points are weak, the entire lock will be compromised. Metals to look out for are zinc and aluminum, both of which are too malleable or fragile for high-security purposes. Though extruded aluminum can sometimes work.

The size and proportions of your trailer hitch will keep certain trailer hitch locks from working effectively. Always be sure to take the relevant measurements, and be aware of other objects that you have the potential to keep these locks from properly securing to the trailer. Just read the specs from the lock’s description and cross reference them with the information you have documented about your own trailer. Most negative reviews of trailer locks have to do with the device not fitting the buyer’s pre-existing equipment.

Coupler Attachment

How the coupler is attached to your trailer has a lot to do with the amount of security you need. For example, the trailer hitch lock can be ignored altogether if the coupler is only bolted on. Similar to this issue of how the coupler is bolted together, there is an issue with only using a padlock to secure the hasp of the coupler.

Often the hasp can be removed entirely by simply going underneath the device. With a socket wrench of the appropriate size, you can have the hasp removed entirely. The padlock and hasp can be discarded and the trailer can be taken away.

The Dangers of Popularity

Something is not bad by virtue of being popular. But security devices that are popular need to be viewed with a higher level of scrutiny, as this often has to do with price point. Keeping the price passed on to the customer low has a lot to do with keeping the cost of production low. Low production costs rely very heavily on using materials that are cheap to work with and cheap to gain access to.

Strong metals do not fit either of those criteria. And if something is not cheap, it is less likely to be placed in stores, because it will not appeal to the mass market. So if you see a lot of people using something, investigate whether or not they are all investing in what they have determined to be the best security, or if they have settled for something accessible and cheap.

When you know the different types of trailer locks, you can better navigate the great choices before you. Beware of the types of considerations that can affect a trailer lock. While you are looking for the best trailer security, be sure to make the investment in a quality trailer lock. Whether you are getting a trailer hitch lock or some other form of trailer lock, security begins with the way you lock your trailer.

Category : Automotive , Lock Types , Safety & Security

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