In this article, we will answer the following question: How do you anchor down a camper? We will discuss four basic options that every camper must know. We also help you prepare for high winds by guiding you on how to anchor down a camper when the weather is not so friendly.

How do you anchor down a camper?

The simple ways to anchor down a camper in high winds or when there is a hurricane alert is by using:

Chocks,
Jacks,
Stabilization stands or
Multi-level lifting ramps.

The chocks are positioned under the wheels while the jacks and stabilization stands are positioned under the frame. We will explain how to anchor your camper just below.

Anchor down your camper with chocks

To anchor down your camper with chocks, the only difficulty is to position the wheel correctly on the chock. The wheel should be straight and well in the middle of the chock. To help you maneuver the motorhome and position the wheel correctly on the chock, it is advisable to be assisted by a second person to guide you.

Also remember to apply the handbrake securely once the wheel has been placed on the chock, so that the motorhome does not roll back or move forward under the effect of the chocks. If you chock your motorhome in winter, use chocks to prevent the tire from slipping if the chock freezes.

Anchor down your camper with jacks or stabilization jacks

The jacks and stabilization stands are fixed under the frame of the camper. This equipment is not intended to correct the slope of the land or the motorhome, but is used to stabilize the motorhome.

The installation of hydraulic jacks under the frame also makes it possible to stabilize your motorhome effortlessly with a control panel that allows automatic leveling. The gearbox must be in neutral with the engine running and the handbrake applied to activate the hydraulic cylinders.

Other ways to anchor down a camper

As we were telling you, wooden wedges do a great job of securing your motorhome. This is the most economical way, you can find wood chocks anywhere. But it does take a bit of practice and possibly patience with your partner. This is why there are now different types of chocks and blockers on the market that make the job much easier.

Rounded shims – A new kind of rounded shims have appeared on the market. They are easy to install and you only need to roll them gently to raise the desired axle. These wedges support 2.5 tons and raise a maximum of 10 cm. I haven’t had the chance to test them but it will come next season!

Multi-level lifting ramps and wedges – Very practical, these wedges have 3 raising stages at 4, 7 and 10 cm. They take up little space and are easy to store. There are many options online, but be careful to choose chocks that support loads of the axles of the camper! This model is one of the most popular.

There are other means of anchoring down a camper: inflatable chocks, special ramps, etc. For us, the simplest remains the good old wooden block.

How do you anchor down a camper on grass or soft ground?

Not all pitches for campers and motorhomes are stabilized or paved. This is all the more true in small campsites. Sometimes you will need to settle on grass or turf. So try to find an area on the site that you feel is stable enough and that will not be flooded with the slightest downpour. Do not hesitate to request it at the campsite.

Then, when you get to the location, I don’t recommend riding first on the grass. Quite simply to avoid skating and getting stuck. If you need to drive forward, when arriving or departing, shift the second to a stop. Especially if the grass is wet. Take your foot off the clutch pedal slowly without accelerating, or very little. Your vehicle will move forward naturally without skidding, so with more grip.

For the actual anchoring, I recommend larger size wedges to better distribute the load on the ground and avoid sinking too deep.

Whatever happens, do not park on soggy ground, unless you have a farmer with a tractor nearby!

How to properly secure a camper in high winds

Living in a hurricane-prone area, or travelling to one in an RV, means preparing for a potential storm. It is not advisable to ride any hurricane in an RV, but you can prepare it to tackle storms. Your priority should be keeping your family safe and moving them to a shelter from the elements or near family and friends’ homes. You will prepare your RV as you would your home with subtle differences.

Check the terrain that your camper is parked on. If you live in a flat swampy area not far from the ocean, you might be susceptible to flooding and storm surges.

Stock an emergency kit filled with water, non-perishable food, a first aid kit and medication. Place sleeping bags and blankets in waterproof bags to protect them from moisture. Place all car documents as well as personal identification in waterproof bags and keep them with you.

Check the condition of your camper. Make sure the mobile home has enough fuel and check the tires for their condition, especially if you decide to evacuate in your RV. Check the windshield and windows for cracks and have them repaired.

Position your camper so that the wind will blow over as little of your vehicle as possible. Turn your vehicle so that the initial wind blows at the back of the RV, protecting the windshield. Remember, if the eye passes overhead, the wind will blow in the opposite direction when the storms restart.

• Anchor your camper in place using buried junk tires. You can also buy straps that attach to anchors buried in the ground, especially useful if you are travelling. Bury the tires wrapped in nylon cord, at least two feet in the ground. Attach a hook to the buried tire, then wrap the camper in a ratchet strap and pull down at least three to four inches.

Secure all loose parts inside the trailer to avoid blowing them around. Remove any branches that might fall on the camper. Stay put, empty the storage tanks and turn off the propane cylinders. Cover all vents and air conditioning units.

Board your windows with plywood. Have a stock on hand long before a storm approaches.

The bottom line

Anchoring down a camper during high winds is essential for both your safety and to ensure that the camper stays put and doesn’t cause any damage. Apart from our safety tips, if necessary, better stop and wait for the wind to subside or in any case, change direction or its strength to be able to drive better.

Do you have any suggestions for anchoring down a camper in high winds? Let us know!

FAQ on How do you anchor down a camper?

Are 40mph winds dangerous?

40 mph is not considered very dangerous winds, however, you must be careful while driving, because it can be strong enough to break trees, to damage power lines and small structures.

Can a camper be blown over in the wind?

Yes, a camper can be blown over in high winds. If necessary, better stop and wait for the wind to subside or in any case, change direction or its strength to be able to drive better.

Can you tow a camper in 40mph winds?

The short answer is yes; you can tow a camper in 40mph winds. The general rule is to avoid towing a caravan/trailer in winds that exceed 50mph, as it can pose a real danger for yourself and other drivers.

How to drive with a lot of wind?

Here are some safe driving tips for windy conditions:

Determine the direction of the wind.
Check the tires.
Know your vehicle well.
Keep your hands behind the wheel.
Reduce speed.
Drive in the middle of the lane.
Avoid overtaking.

References

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How do you anchor down a camper? (3+ basic options)