Adding Keyless Entry to a 5th Wheel or Travel Trailer

Newer campers, 5th wheels, trailers, Class C motorhomes and Class A have the option of replacing the traditional keyed entry door with a keyless entry with fobs and some also have the option of adding a keypad as well, which is a great option for those who are always concerned about locking themselves out of their RV or trailer.

Then there is the security issue… did you know that your key probably opens other RVs in your campground, even if they are a different make or a different year? Every key isn’t unique to your personal camper, something I was shocked to learn when someone told me this year ago, so it has been on my mind ever since.

Table of Contents

Swapping & Installing a Keyless Entry

But what about those who already own one that is a regular keyed entry? The good news is that you can replace the traditional entry handle with a keyless version on most trailers and 5th wheels.

The install itself only takes about 10 minutes, so it is a quick improvement to make with a ton of convenience. You simply unscrew the old one and screw in the new one after installing the batteries. Since the new keypad versions are slightly larger on the outside, you won’t have any unsightly marks from where the old one was on the outside of the door.

There are also lots of videos online of people who have installed a keyless entry for their camper, so it is pretty easy to follow a video tutorial if you prefer that over instructions. But it is pretty simple for even those who aren’t DIY-inclined.

Why Upgrade?

Why would you want to upgrade? First and foremost it is such a convenience to simply click a keyfob and unlock the door. You don’t have the hassle of fumbling with a key as well when you are coming back to the trailer carrying groceries. I hate messing around with a key, especially since you never seem to put it into the lock the right way around the first time.

The interior side will have a flip switch to lock the door from the inside if you don’t want to use the fob or just want the visual security of seeing it is locked.

Will it Fit Your Travel Trailer or 5th Wheel?

First, you need to measure the current handle in your RV. While the majority of the handles are standard across most RV models, there are some outliers that aren’t standard, especially if they are very old or have been imported from outside North America. If your handle is 3.5″ x 4.25″ it is likely able to be converted to a keyless entry. The actual lock hole opening (the hole once the handle is removed) should be 2.75″ x 3.75″ x 1.5″ thick.

Popular Keyless Entry Kits for 5th Wheels & Travel Trailers

Some kits include two key fobs, so you can bring both with you when you travel, or leave one of the fobs behind for safekeeping and emergencies.

This is the most popular version but only includes one fob. However, you can purchase additional fobs to program the same, which is nice for those who want more than two fobs. If you are like me, I want an extra spare to hide in the tow vehicle and another to keep at home or with a family member for emergencies.