Last Updated on February 8, 2025 by Alan Weir
When it comes to the outdoor adventures that come with caravanning or motorhoming, having a spare key at the ready can be a real lifesaver. As an expert car locksmith, I can tell you that losing your keys or accidentally locking yourself out of your beloved rolling home may result in a less-than-stellar experience. So, let’s chat about the best, most reliable ways to store those spare keys, ensuring you can always get back in and continue enjoying the journey.
The Importance of Key Storage
Before diving into the ways to stash away your spare key, it’s worth pausing to reflect on why smart key storage is crucial. Picture yourself parked by the coast, sun shining, with that perfect cup of tea in hand. Suddenly, you realise you’ve left your keys inside and, oh dear, the doors won’t budge! Besides the inconvenience, it can lead to delays in your journey. Plus, let’s be honest, no one wants to deal with that level of frustration while trying to get away from it all.
Hidden Inside a Magnetic Key Holder
One of the oldest tricks in the book is using a magnetic key holder. These nifty little devices come with a strong magnet and a weather-resistant casing that you can attach to a discreet place on the outside of your caravan or motorhome. Think about spots like under the chassis, behind a wheel arch, or even tucked away under a plastic vent cover.
Discretion is Key
When selecting a spot for your magnetic key holder, choose somewhere that doesn’t scream “spare key here” to passersby. The more inconspicuous, the better! You might want to avoid standard locations like under the doormat or within a fake rock, which are pretty much the first places anyone would check. Surrounding areas, like the underside of a bumper or even clipped to a less notable part of your vehicle, can be goldmines for secret key storage.
Using a Lockbox
If you’re not a fan of the whole magnet idea, then a small, weatherproof lockbox is another viable option. With a lockbox, you can securely store your spare key while ensuring it’s accessible when needed. You could position it somewhere discreet on your vehicle, and the combination lock adds an extra layer of security. Some would argue that this approach might be a bit more robust than the magnetic holder since it can be more difficult for someone to open without knowing the combination.
Inside Your Caravan — The Clever Hideaways
Are you more of a "let’s keep it inside" kind of person? There are several clever spots within your caravan or motorhome where you might consider stashing your spare key. Think about:
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Behind a Removable Panel: If your vehicle has a cupboard or storage area that has a removable panel, that can be a clever hiding spot. Just remember which panel it is!
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In Plain Sight but Disguised: Look for an everyday item that can serve a dual purpose. For example, a decorative box or pot that blends in with the surroundings but is purposefully kept empty for your spare key. Just make sure it’s not too obvious.
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Under a Seat Cushion: You can hide your spare key under a seat cushion or timber panel, camouflaging it amongst other items.
- Behind or Inside Random Drawers: Utilise deep drawers that aren’t accessed often. You could even tape the key inside a seldom-used item like a travel journal or first aid kit.
Key Safe with App Connectivity
In this modern age, many of us are turning to technology for solutions, and why not? A smart key safe with app connectivity could be an interesting alternative. These devices can be installed within your caravan and operated via your smartphone, allowing you to grant access to trusted friends or family while keeping things secure. Some of these contemporary options even come with neat features such as alarms and notifications when they are accessed.
Buckle It in Your Belongings
Consider incorporating your spare key into your belongings cleverly. Purchase a little travel tag or incorporate the key into a calculator case, an old but working compass, or any other item you often take out. This approach keeps it relatively safe, and it’s less likely someone would think to rifle through that pocketbook—who carries an old canvas bag around anyway?
Give a Trusted Friend a Key
If you have a mate who’s enthusiastic about caravanning or motorhoming, consider handing them a spare key. This could be particularly useful if you’re at a site together. Just make sure it’s someone you absolutely trust; after all, you wouldn’t want a key getting into the wrong hands.
The Risk of Key Duplication
When obtaining a spare key, don’t forget the importance of using a reputable locksmith. Not all lock and key services are created equal. Some may use inferior materials for duplication, meaning your spare key could fail at a crucial moment.
Tip: Always check for reputable locksmith services, preferably ones that come recommended or have good online reviews. And remember, never share your key with someone who is not trustworthy.
Considerations for Smart Keys
Many modern caravans and motorhomes use smart keys or key fobs that can be expensive and rather tricky to duplicate. If you’ve gone high-tech, remember that these keys tend to come with extra features like keyless entry and immobilisers. It’s advisable to contact your vehicle’s manufacturer for methods to copy or reposition your spare key.
The Spare Key as Contingency Planning
So far, we’ve mainly discussed how to hide your spare key effectively. However, it’s essential to think of this as an exercise in contingency planning. In your rush for adventure, you might forget where you tucked it away. Therefore, it’s a good idea to keep a note (safely stored and not made public) of where the spare key can be found, as well as any likely scenarios where you may need it.
Lastly, Regularly Check the Status of Your Key
If you find that you’ve gone for a bit without needing the spare, it’s not a bad idea to give your storage choice a quick check. Sometimes the elements can affect key holders or lockboxes, especially if they’re on the exterior. Ensuring your key isn’t rusting away or your lockbox is accessible can save you a lot of trouble.
With these suggestions at your fingertips, you can confidently tuck away your spare key while keeping the spirit of your adventures unscathed. Happy travels and always remember—it’s the journey that counts!
Alan Weir – Master Locksmith with 30+ Years of Experience
Alan Weir is the founder of Weir Locksmiths and a Master Locksmith with over three decades of experience. Renowned for his expertise in home and automotive security, Alan has built a reputation for providing reliable and innovative locksmith solutions across the UK.
A certified member of the Master Locksmiths Association (MLA), Alan specialises in residential, commercial and automotive locksmith services including car key replacement, transponder programming, and advanced security systems. His dedication to the field has earned him thousands of satisfied customers and glowing reviews on platforms like Checkatrade.
Now contributing to RevLock, Alan shares his expert knowledge to all of RevLocks visitors.
