rv travel with firearms

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

Journey With Confidence

Can RVers Carry And Camp With Guns?

• RV Lifestyle

If you go carry and camp with guns in your RV, do you know the rules about transporting firearms in vehicles? Let’s look at some basics about taking firearms on the road.

As we explore the backroads and cities of America, many of us feel safer carrying a weapon aboard the RV. And although federal law allows Americans to legally own a gun, that doesn’t mean it’s always legal to move around with them–even if our residence has wheels.

Can Your RV Get Searched for Guns?

• Automobiles can be searched without a warrant at any time by law enforcement officers if you are a crime suspect.
• If your RV is on the move and not hooked up to utilities, your rig is considered an automobile .
• Should law enforcement offers believe you were involved in a crime when you are on the road, they can search your rig without a warrant.

The clearest law about carrying guns in vehicles comes from the Federal Gun Control Act of 1968 , which allows law-abiding U.S. citizens without mental or criminal convictions to transport a firearm on a “peaceable journey” across state lines.

State and local rules about carrying, storing, and concealing firearms laws differ from place to place.

Once you arrive at your destination, you could be breaking the local law just by having a gun in your RV. For example, hiking with a gun is illegal in America’s national parks. Some states require gun owners to have a permit. Others don’t. Many states allow concealed carrying of guns. Lots do not.

Unless you’re a lawyer specializing in firearms law, you’ll probably have a hard time interpreting these codes whenever you travel with a gun or other weapon in your rig.

Tips for Carrying Guns in RVs

Again, there’s no easy “yes” or “no” answer about carrying firearms in RVs . If you still want to travel with personal protection and you don’t have a concealed carry weapon permit, you can reduce your chances of violating firearms transport laws by:

• Carrying copies of your firearms certifications, ownership registrations etc. on board.
• Keeping all weapons unloaded, in a locked container far from the reach of the driver while the RV is moving.
• Storing ammo as far away from weapons as possible.

The decision of whether or not to carry guns in RVs is a huge one. Before you decide, do your research so you can be confident and informed about your rights when traveling.

Other resources:

Handgun Law in the U.S. Traveling Cross Country With A Gun In Your RV Armed with Information

• Books & Merch
• Gear We Use
• National & State Parks
• Best RV Campgrounds in New Hampshire
• Best RV Campgrounds in NC Mountains
• Best Florida Beach RV Campgrounds
• South Dakota
• The Great Lakes
• Campers Swear By This Portable Device That Keeps Dogs Safe -The Best Portable Dog Fence for Camping (2024)
• Mosquitos and bugs
• Camping Clothes
• Camping Gifts
• Camping Internet
• 5 Best RV Backup Cameras for RV & Trailer
• 7 Best Screen Tents for Camping (2024)
• Best RV Campgrounds in California
• 5 Best Key West RV Parks
• 9 Best RV Campgrounds in New Jersey
• Camping Reservations
• Campground Comparisons
• Cheap or FREE RV Camping Sites
• Best RV Campground Memberships & Clubs
• Boondocking 101
• Boondocking Adventures
• RV Internet
• What Do Flamingos and Upside Down Pineapples Mean?
• Where to Find FREE or Cheap RV Sites Camping
• RV Winter Camping
• RV Show List for 2024
• 17 Best Camper Vans 2024 (New Class B RVs Available!)

Firearms in an RV: What You NEED to Know

If you're traveling with firearms in an rv, here are the basics you need to know….

• 1 If you're traveling with firearms in an RV, here are the basics you need to know…
• 2 Can I Travel to Another State with Firearms?
• 3 Same Laws as Vehicles
• 4.1 Driving Through vs. Staying Overnight
• 4.2 What If You're Not Driving Through?
• 5 Travelers Guide to the Firearm of the Fifty States
• 6.1 States with No Reciprocity
• 7.1 Concealed Carry Reciprocity Map & Gun Laws by State
• 8 Will You Be Stopped at California's State Line?
• 9 The Ultimate Road Warrior RV Internet
• 10 Plan Your Next Adventure to Coastal Maine
• 11 We recommend you go Lectric for your RV Lifestyle

Let's begin by clarifying that this article is not about whether or not you should travel with firearms. This article is only about what you need to know if you choose to travel with firearms in your RV.

We promise there is no political message. There is only information based on laws and regulations that we have researched. We must also say that our research isn't infallible, and laws and regulations can change anytime.

So, you should always verify the following information before crossing state lines or into unfamiliar territory with a firearm. Laws and regulations specific to you, your firearms, and your location must be adhered to, and safety should always be the number one priority when traveling with a firearm.

That being said, we hope this article helps those who wish to travel with a firearm to do so in a legal, safe manner.

If you buy something through our links, we may get a small commission at no extra cost to you. It helps keep our lights on so we can continue to provide helpful resources for RVers. Read our  full affiliate disclosure here.

Can I Travel to Another State with Firearms?

The general answer is yes, you can travel to another state with firearms. However, there are limitations to how, and it varies from state to state. Some states will reciprocate your home state's gun laws, other states have additional requirements, some states will allow you to drive through but not stop beyond what's necessary, and so on.

You must do your due diligence for every state you are going to travel in and through. You can't claim ignorance to get out of jail time or a hefty fine if you didn't do your research of local gun laws.

Reading this article doesn't count as your due diligence because we can't go into state specifics. However, it will help get you started by understanding the basics.

Same Laws as Vehicles

First, you must know that RVs are classified as vehicles, not residences, even if you live in them full-time. As such, they fall under vehicle laws for firearms. So, when researching local state laws, you must look specifically for traveling with or having firearms in a vehicle.

“The Peaceable Journey Law”

The Firearms Owners Protection Act (FOPA) , also known as “The Peaceable Journey Law” was passed in 1986. FOPA allows a person who can lawfully carry (whether by permit, constitutional carry, etc.) in their state of origin as well as their destination to transport a firearm through states in which he or she does not hold a valid permit.

In short, that means an RVer can drive with a properly stored firearm through a state where they do not meet local firearm requirements if they do meet the requirements of their home state and their destination. However, different states have different definitions of “ through” where some mean you cannot stop while others will allow you to make short stops, such as for fuel and food.

Note that this act does not permit you to use your firearm in these drive-through states (even in defense) without potential consequences. This act only allows you to transport it through states.

You must also store the firearm unloaded and contained in a locked box or out of the driver's reach, unless state law allows otherwise. In general, the firearm should not be within reach or easily accessible, and the same is true and/or recommended for ammunition.

Driving Through vs. Staying Overnight

Note once more that states have different definitions of what qualifies as “driving through.” If you do not meet a state's local gun requirements (i.e., not proper permitting), then you must follow that state's definition of driving through, which may mean not stopping at all.

In some states, short stops are tolerated but again, the type of ‘short stops' depends on the state. You must know what is allowed before crossing into the state.

What If You're Not Driving Through?

If you are not driving through, you must meet local gun permitting requirements to legally travel with a firearm within that state. You may be able to meet these requirements with an additional permit or by following additional procedures— it depends on the state.

Travelers Guide to the Firearm of the Fifty States

One of the best resources for traveling with firearms is the annual Traveler's Guide to the Firearm Laws of the Fifty States . We highly recommend it for any RVers traveling with a firearm.

Firearm Reciprocity Laws

In addition to FOPA, you need to understand Fiream Reciprocity Laws. Many states reciprocate other states' firearm laws. Reciprocity allows gun owners in one state to have full legal rights to carry and use their firearm in another state, and vice versa.

Of course, which states reciprocate can't be easily listed since different states reciprocate different states. So, you have to cross-reference which states reciprocate your state. The only simple list we can give is the states that do not offer any reciprocity.

States with No Reciprocity

• Connecticut
• Massachusetts
• Rhode Island

In these states, it is illegal to bring a weapon across their borders, and even use a weapon for self-defense, unless you have satisfied all legal requirements in that state.

Concealed Carry

Many RVers who travel with firearms have concealed carry permits, which legally allows them to carry firearms on their person and to more locations under very strict regulations. If RVers plan to travel with a firearm for self-defense, it is recommended that they look into getting a concealed carry permit .

Concealed Carry Reciprocity Map & Gun Laws by State

The USCCA website has an excellent resource for concealed carriers. You can check your concealed carry permit(s) reciprocity and learn about every state's concealed carry and gun laws by clicking on their interactive map .

Their website is also full of helpful information and resources concerning carrying and traveling with firearms.

Will You Be Stopped at California's State Line?

If you're entering California, your RV may be searched by border protection officers. However, these officers only look for agricultural contaminants that could devastate the state's farming industry.

That being said, remember that California is a non-reciprocity state, and you must meet all local requirements to bring a firearm into the state. Before crossing the state line, make sure your firearms are properly stowed.

To learn more about crossing California state lines and what to expect, keep reading…

The Ultimate Road Warrior RV Internet

Like what you see in these videos?  We'd appreciate it if you would Subscribe to our YouTube Channel ( easy to do right here ) and consider “ringing the bell icon” to be notified of any new video from us. 🙂 Thanks!

We have a new RV Internet System. While it is super expensive, it has been performing so well for us that for the first time in 12 years of living the RV Lifestyle, we now have complete confidence that I can do my work and reliably get online from pretty much anywhere.

Plan Your Next Adventure to Coastal Maine

By popular demand, we announce the publication of the latest in our library of RV travel guides – a 7-Day Adventure Guide to Coastal Maine.

With its dramatic rocky coastline, enchanting fishing towns, and windswept sandy beaches, Coastal Maine is a destination that should be on every RVers’ bucket list. 

We call these guides “7 days,” but they really are seven stops. They’re meant to be experienced at your own pace, a couple of days at one stop, a week at another, however long you want.

We have carefully curated this 66-page digital guide (not a printed book) so you can take in all Coastal Maine has to offer. We give you the routes to drive, the spot to stop, the places to eat, and the museums, excursions, hikes and adventures we think you will enjoy the most.

For an RVer, Coastal Maine has it all: stunning landscapes, short drives between stops, spacious campsites, that perfect small city and nature mixed with a seemingly endless variety of things to see and explore.

We recommend you go Lectric for your RV Lifestyle

You know we love our RAD Power bikes – and have featured them for years, but we recently tested out and LOVE our new  Lectric foldable ebikes . Being able to fold them up allowed us to put them in our Wonder rear garage area for a recent RV Lifestyle Gathering.  You can check out our experience with them right here on our YouTube Channel .

Last update on 2024-04-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Published on 2023-10-20

Mike Wendland is a multiple Emmy-award-winning Journalist, Podcaster, YouTuber, and Blogger, who has traveled with his wife, Jennifer, all over North America in an RV, sharing adventures and reviewing RV, Camping, Outdoor, Travel and Tech Gear for the past 12 years. They are leading industry experts in RV living and have written 18 travel books.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Related Posts

Starlink RV Update: Starlink RV vs Residential Portability

Discover the Hidden Gem of RV Camping: COE Campgrounds!

21 Best Travel Guides for RVers

This post may contain affiliate links or mention our own products, please check out our disclosure policy .

Top Tips for RVing with Firearms

Published on January 19th, 2023 by Lucinda Belden

RVers usually try to follow the law. But when traveling across the U.S., laws about RVing with firearms can be confusing. How do we know if we are breaking a law?

As we wade through what is legal and what is not about camping with guns, to minimize confusion it is always best to go to the source: federal and state law websites.

Firearms Laws for RVers to Consider

There is a lot of RVing with firearms information sharing across the Internet, all from various resources. The best place to begin your research is with federal and state websites documenting rules about traveling with firearms.

DON’T MISS OUT ON LET'S RV UPDATES

Sign up for the newsletter today.

Please enter a valid email address.

An error occurred. Please try again later.

Thank you for subscribing to the Let's RV newsletter, keep your eye on your inbox for updates.

With that in mind, here is a federal and state law overview of what we should consider as RVers who are camping with firearms and various self-defense weapons.

National Park Service and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Gun Laws

According to federal law 18 USC § 926A , every U.S. citizen may legally transport firearms across state lines. That is if he or she is legally allowed to possess the weapons in both the state of origin, as well as the destination.

National Parks and National Wildlife Refuges also do not prohibit legal firearm possession. But certain rules must be followed in order to do so.

For instance, in Title 36 Chpt. 1 Part 2 & 2.4 firearms laws state:

 None of the provisions in this section or any regulation in this chapter may be enforced to prohibit an individual from possessing a firearm, including an assembled or functional firearm, in any National Park System unit if: (1) The individual is not otherwise prohibited by law from possessing the firearm; (2) The possession of the firearm is in compliance with the law of the State in which the National Park System unit is located. CHAPTER I – NATIONAL PARK SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR   PART 2 – RESOURCE PROTECTION, PUBLIC USE AND RECREATION  § 2.4 Weapons, traps and nets.

What About U.S. National Forest Camping with Concealed Weapons?

Some states have separate laws concerning carrying weapons into U.S. national forests.

You must know the law. In most states, if it is legal for you to carry a concealed firearm in the state where the national forest you are visiting is located, you are not violating any laws.

If it is legal to openly carry a firearm (on your hip, for example) in the state where the national forest you are visiting is located, you are not violating any laws either.

Some states have laws against carrying concealed firearms into national forests within state lines.

Look at each state’s website to see if it is legal to carry and conceal firearms inside national forests that are located in that particular state.

Know how state gun laws can impact your travels.

State laws about RVing with guns gets a little tricky. For starters, federal law does not interfere with state restrictions of gun ownership and possession.

Also, federal does not restrict carrying a gun across state lines if you meet the legal requirements of doing so.

However, individual states can have additional firearms transportation restrictions that may prohibit you from carrying guns in RVs across state lines.

Examples of state laws about RVing with guns

Some examples of the way in which state gun transportation laws can impact your travels include restrictions like:

• You may carry the firearm, but it must be unloaded.
• Ammunition being transported cannot be readily accessible.
• The compartment cannot be accessible by the passenger.
• The firearm or ammunition must be in a locked container (other than a glove compartment)
• How state laws impact your travels might also depend on the type of weapon you are carrying (rifle, shotgun, handgun, etc.)
• Do you need a firearms permit in your state or the one you are traveling to? Some states require one, some do not.
• All states have different concealed carry laws too.

Currently forty-four states have a right to own firearms provision in their state constitution. These gun provisions are similar to the Second Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which protects the right to keep and bear arms.

These states do not have a “right to own firearms” clause in their constitution:

Different states may or may not recognize permits from other states firearms transportation laws.

Are you are RVing with firearms into one of the above states? If so, be aware that they do have stricter firearms ownership requirements. Those states are not as flexible as other states’ permits and carry laws.

Federal and state firearms laws are even more complicated when traveling in an RV with guns. Questions arise if you should be considered traveling with your home and home laws apply. Or, if you are still considered traveling by vehicle.  

Is Your RV a Home or a Vehicle?

You are legally allowed to have a firearm in your camper while traveling through different U.S. states. The law considers your RV a vehicle. But there is a federal law that protects you when you are in motion. It’s called, The Firearm Owners Protection Act of 1986 , or also known as, “ The Peaceable Journey Law .”

The Peaceable Journey Law grants anyone the right to carry their firearm across the state lines. Remember again though, that individual states have different carry restrictions that override federal law.

But note there are two laws that protect you when RVing with firearms. Federal Law 18 USC 926A (Interstate transportation of firearms ) and the Peaceable Journey Law (Gun Control Act of 1968 ) . In all cases, you are protected federally if you abide by the following:

• You are just passing through the restrictive state.
• You have a state license or permit to carry.
• You are not prohibited from possession of a firearm.
• The firearm and ammunition are not readily accessible.
• The firearms are unloaded.
• And if your vehicle (RV) does not have a compartment separate from the driver compartment, and the firearm is in a locked container other than the glove compartment.

What About Full-time RVing with Guns?

The rule that is most applicable to people RVing with firearms (especially as full-time RVers ) is the ‘passing through’ situation noted above. The laws describe this situation as ‘Not staying for any determined length of time’.

You may be considered as someone who is just “passing through” if your domicile (residence) state is not the same state where you are staying. But you will need to provide proof your stay is not permanent.

If you do stay a lengthy period in one state that is not your legal residence, this will be an iffy situation for you. You should research the state firearms laws where you will be staying in for a longer period. See if you need to acquire a local gun license or permit for your firearm.

A Great Resource for State Gun Laws

If you’re RVing with firearms, one of the best resources to locate current state gun laws is Handgunlaw.us. Their “ Carrying Firearms in your Car or RV W/O a Permit/License ” document lists every state law’s gun laws. Locate the one where you will be staying or camping. It also contains important information about safely securing firearms inside your RV to prevent theft.

Responsible gun ownership means knowing how the law applies to you and your situation. Know the laws where you will be camping with firearms and you’ll stay out of trouble.

Share this post:

Related posts:.

What Happens if Lightning Strikes an RV?

55 and Rolling On: The Senior RVer’s Guide to Social Adventure

12 Reasons to Embrace Cold Weather RV Camping (Before Spring!)

About the author:.

Lucinda Belden has been a travel content writer since 2010 and started RVing full-time in 2019. She is a team writer for several travel magazines, blogs, and books. Here credits include Escapees Magazine and Ride Texas Magazine . She has authored two RV books including “RVing with Motorcycles: and Other Outdoor Toys,” and “14 Sturgis Rally Rides in 6 Days: Enjoying the South Dakota Black Hills and More.” Her work is also featured in the RV Travel Newsletter, and RV Destinations Magazine. Lucinda also hosts RV events across the U.S. with her husband Will and they share their adventures on their Direction Wide Open website . She likes to say that if there is anything she has learned, it is to travel like a local, not a tourist, and – never stop learning!

Follow Let's RV

WE'RE THE RUSSOS

Live Free and Explore! Blog about RV Living and Travel.

Traveling with Firearms in an RV Across the U.S.

Some of the links below are affiliate links, which means we will earn a commission on the products or services you purchase using the links. There is no additional cost to you and the earnings help keep this website running. Read the Affiliate Disclaimer for more information.

Whether it’s for sport or for personal protection, traveling with firearms across state lines in an RV brings up a lot of questions. Can you legally travel with a gun across the US? Can you carry a gun in your RV? The answer to these questions can vary from state to state and sometimes even city to city.

In this article, I will share what we’ve learned about traveling with firearms and provide resources on the various legalities of traveling in your RV with a gun within the United States. This post will also touch on traveling to Canada and Mexico with firearms from the United States.

NOTE: I’m not a lawyer and nothing in this article should be considered legal advice. I’m sharing my opinions and what I’ve learned over the years. While I might make reference to laws, they are subject to change and my information may not be current. I would suggest you use this article as a basis to do your own research around traveling with firearms and contact a lawyer for any legal questions. There is a lot of personal and legal responsibility owning a firearm and it’s your responsibility to be safe and understand all of the laws. This article also assumes that you are not a prohibited person and can legally own firearms.

Traveling with Firearms

While the process for traveling with firearms can seem daunting with the seemingly endless laws that pertain to them, it’s straightforward once you get a handle on things. One of the best resources to answer many questions is the book, Traveler’s Guide to the Firearm Laws of the Fifty States .

The author, J. Scott Kappas is a lawyer and has put together a handy guide on traveling with firearms. Since firearms laws change each year, he publishes a new version shortly after each new year to keep the guide current. The guide includes federal laws and has a page dedicated to each U.S. state. It’s worth buying and keeping in your vehicle to reference every time you plan to cross a state line.

Why carry a gun in an RV?

Traveling with Firearms for Personal Protection

For RV travelers, there are those times where we want to camp off the beaten path. Many times we don’t have cell service or are so far from a town or city that help might be a long time coming…assuming they could find us. That means if there is a bump in the night, you may be on your own in dealing with the problem until the calvary arrives.

While criminals can be a concern, if you’re camping out in the boonies, you’re more likely to have an encounter with a wild animal who sees you as its next meal. I personally know someone who had a bear tear open their tent in the middle of the night, grab their leg and start to walk off with them. Luckily, their partner was able to think quickly and punched the bear in the nose which made it drop the person and take off. 

Just like living in a home, there’s always the risk of someone or something coming in with the intention of doing you harm. Having a firearm and knowing how to use it is one way to help protect yourself and anyone with you. 

Traveling with Firearms for Sport

Many people travel across the U.S. to hunt or participate in shooting related events and activities. The types of firearms used for these types of activities can range from American revolution era black powder guns to modern day fully automatic weapons. While some people chose to fly (yes, you can fly with guns in checked baggage but that’s a whole other discussion), many will hit the road and see the sights along the way. 

The Legalities of Traveling with Firearms

There are thousands of firearms laws across the U.S. When traveling with firearms in your RV, you need to not only be aware of local and state laws but also federal laws as you’ll most likely be crossing state lines and possibly even across international borders. You need to know and understand those laws BEFORE crossing any state, and in some cases, county lines. 

For example, California and New York both have some of the most restrictive firearms laws in the United States. Their laws can also change based on which city and/or county you happen to be in. If you cross into and travel through a state like this, you need to be aware of all state AND local firearms laws. 

In other states like Texas, they have state preemption gun laws. This means that no local governments can further restrict or regulate the possession or use of firearms. What this means to a traveler is that you only need to be aware of the state firearms laws. 

When an RV is parked in a fixed state (connected to shore power/sewer, awning out, etc), certain states consider the RV to be your domicile. This can change how your firearm must be carried and stored. For example, a state may require that any firearms be locked in a truck or other compartment while traveling, however when you are camping, you may be able to keep that gun unlocked and loaded. 

Federal firearms laws add another layer of complexity. One law for example provides exemptions for travelers traveling through a state which may prohibit their firearms assuming they do not stop (this is covered in detail in the Traveler’s Guide to the Firearm Laws of the Fifty States ). You’re also subject to federal laws when on federal property such as National Parks or camping on BLM and Forest Service land . 

Native American tribes can also have specific laws regarding firearms when you’re within the boundary of their reservation. Each one is different and some can be more restrictive than the state laws.

Can I Get a Concealed Carry Permit? 

In short, yes. While in some states it is extremely difficult and/or impossible for its residents to get a concealed carry permit (CCW), some states like Arizona will issue CCWs to non-residents assuming you meet their standards. Many states will offer reciprocity with the state issuing your CCW so when you travel to that state, you can legally carry. Some states also have what’s known as “Constitutional Carry,” meaning that a permit is not required to carry a firearm in some fashion. That said, most concealed carry laws restrict the types of firearms you may legally carry. It’s also worth noting that the CCW laws may vary if you have a resident or a non-resident permit. 

While there is a cost to get a permit and in some cases, you’re required to attend a class and demonstrate shooting proficiency, having a permit makes it easier to travel with firearms. In the Traveler’s Guide to the Firearm Laws of the Fifty States , it lists the differences between how a firearm must be transported if you have a permit versus if you don’t. 

There are also a number of apps such as the Concealed Carry app which will allow you to select your home state and which permits you have and then the app will show you which states recognize your permit(s). usconcealedcarry.com is another good resource that lists the CCW laws of each state. 

Should I Carry a Gun in My RV?

Only you can answer this question. As I mentioned previously, owning a firearm comes with a great deal of responsibility but there is an even greater responsibility when traveling with firearms due to the various laws you need to be aware of. 

If you’ve made the decision to own a firearm, then I highly suggest getting training, learning how to be safe and spending time becoming proficient with it. If you don’t think a firearm is right for you, there are other ways to stay safe while RVing. Check out my article on RV Safety and Preparedness .

Unfortunately, it can be difficult to train on a regular basis while traveling. Many times you are in areas where you aren’t able to legally shoot and aren’t near any shooting ranges. Also, the prices on ammunition can make it prohibitive to practice regularly. Since ammunition takes up space and weight in an RV you might be limited on how much you can stock up on at a time.  

There are training aids from companies like Mantis that allow you to train with your firearms without using ammo. The Mantis X10 Elite for example, has a small device that you attach to your weapon’s accessory rail and an app that let’s you connect via bluetooth to the device. Once connected, the Mantis will track and evaluate your dry fire practice and provide tips to help you improve.

There are also a number of training modules to test speed and accuracy. This gives you the ability to practice in your RV no matter where you are (just make sure to put the shades down so you don’t attract curious onlookers passing by). When you’re ready for live-fire practice, change the settings in the app from dry-fire to live-fire so the firearms training system can continue to track your progress. 

When I got my Mantis X10 Elite , I realized that in order to use it with my pistol, I would have to reset the trigger between each shot by racking the slide. The nice thing about the MantisX app is that you can select the type of firearm you’re using (pistol or rifle), select the brand/model of the firearm and then change the shot detection mode from live fire to dry fire and it knows to pick up the “shot” when you dry fire the pistol. To improve my training, I purchased a DryFireMag training magazine which resets the trigger each time you pull it.

The MantisX app provides various types of training modules and provides real-time feedback. I’ve found the feedback extremely helpful with improving my grip and trigger pull. Overall, with the MantisX’s compact size and ability to train anywhere, this is a firearm training system that can be easily taken on the road.

Where Can I Store a Gun in My RV?

When traveling through many states, you’re required to have the gun unloaded and locked in a trunk or vehicle storage compartment that is not readily accessible to the occupants. While this might be easy to do in a travel trailer, if you have a motorhome where the living quarters are always available to the occupants, this can be more difficult. Unfortunately most laws reference passenger vehicles and don’t address RVs.

For motorhomes and other campers where you can access the living quarters while driving, consider outside storage bays which can be used as a “trunk.” While laws may not specifically address RVs, look at how the laws address SUVs and station wagons where the “trunk” area is accessible by the occupants. Many times, the laws will allow for guns and ammo to be in locked containers within the vehicle. 

Even in the biggest RVs, you’re limited by weight and space so in most cases a large, standup gun safe won’t work. If you want to lock your firearm in a safe, there are smaller more lightweight safes specific for handguns. Also look for areas in your RV which can be secured.

For example, some RVs have hidden storage areas under beds or dinettes that can be modified to be locked. If you have children or will have children visiting your RV, you’ll need to either keep your firearms locked up and/or attach some type of locking device to the firearm itself. If not, locking up your camper when you leave may suffice, but this will not provide protection if your RV is broken into. 

What Type of Firearm Should I Carry in My RV? 

Again, this answer depends entirely on you and how you plan to travel. I would suggest looking at a map to see where you want to travel in the United States, then researching restrictions those states have on firearms. 

Most states allow travelers to transport any firearm up to and including “assault weapons” (there are specific restrictions to Class III NFA / Class II weapons but that is beyond the scope of this article). That said, there are states, primarily on the east and west coasts, that have banned certain types of guns, have limits on magazine capacity and restrictions on ammunition. If you plan to go into one of these states with something that is prohibited, look for places you can leave the prohibited items behind. You may have friends or family who are able to store the items for you before crossing the border – however check laws to ensure you may do so and that they are legally allowed to possess firearms. There are also gun stores / FFLs who will store the items for a fee. 

Specific considerations need to be taken for laws that are designed for RVs. For example, some states will allow you to carry a loaded firearm in your vehicle without a permit as long as it’s in plain view (meaning, when the officer looks into your vehicle, they can readily see the firearm). If you have a taller RV like a Class A motorhome, your gun that’s on a center console or dash may not be in “plain view” if the officer has to look up into the cab of your RV. 

If you’re planning to use the gun for self defense, consider what the interior of your RV looks like. A rifle or shotgun may not make much sense in a small camper van where you don’t have the room to easily manipulate that firearm. 

Also consider the amount of space you have in your RV and what your vehicle carrying capacity is. A handgun is lighter and easier to store than a rifle (plus all the ammunition and accessories you might want to bring). 

Can I Fly with my Firearms? 

In short, yes but do not put any firearms, ammo or firearm parts into your carry on luggage. Most airlines will allow you to fly with a firearm and limited amount of ammo in your checked baggage. Each airline has slightly different rules around it so check their website first for the most up-to-date information. Please read all of the airline’s information BEFORE arriving at the airport (you don’t want to find out you have to take something home that you can’t bring). You also need to ensure that it is legal for you to possess the firearm you’re traveling with at your destination. There have been cases where a flight gets diverted and lands somewhere else. While the firearm would be legal at your end destination it may not be at the new destination (like New York city). Make sure you read up on what to do in those circumstances.

Based on my experience, firearms are required to be unloaded in a locked, hard sided case (which can be placed in your soft sided luggage). You may have a loaded magazine in the same case as your firearm but it cannot be inserted into the firearm. When you arrive at the check-in counter simply ask the agent for a firearms declaration form (one per firearm). The agent will then fill it out and give you a copy to be taped on your firearm case. In some cases, they may ask to see that it’s locked. The bag will then be screened by TSA and if they suspect your firearm might be loaded or any other issue, you will be called to unlock it for them for further inspection. In order to help prevent this, I will lock the slide back and put a cable lock through the magazine well. When you arrive at your destination, the bag will come out with all of the other checked bags.

One tip I’ve heard but have not tried yet is to put an Apple Air Tag into your luggage/gun case so you can keep track of where your bag(s) are.

Can I Travel to Canada or Mexico with my Firearms? 

You cannot travel to Mexico with any firearms or ammunition. Even an empty magazine or gun parts can get you in trouble. There are stories of travelers getting detained because there was a single loose round of ammunition that they missed when cleaning out their RV.

While traveling through Baja Mexico in our RV , Kait and I regularly passed through military check-points where they would ask us questions and inspect our truck camper . While these inspections were typically brief, other people in our party were given more detailed inspections including the use of dogs. If you plan to travel to Mexico, go through your RV with a fine tooth comb and ensure everything that is not allowed in that country has been removed from your RV. 

Now Canada is a bit of a different story. They allow certain types of firearms like bolt/lever action rifles, pump shot guns and semi-auto shotguns that hold a limited number of rounds. Mostly this is for hunters who are heading up to Canada and Alaska. I won’t go into detail here but in order to cross the border you need to provide the appropriate forms and reason(s) for bringing firearms across the border. Self-defense is not considered a valid reason. From what I’ve heard, some people have had no issues and do it on a regular basis while others were turned away at the border. You can read all about the different regulations and what forms need to be filled out on the Canada Border Services Agency site .

If you want to travel to Alaska and bring a handgun, semi-automatic rifle or other prohibited items, there are companies in the U.S. that will ship your gun(s) to Alaska and then back again. You can also fly up there and check the guns, but then that negates the fun of taking an RV to Alaska!

What About Knives, Pepper Spray, Bear Spray and Other Self-Defense Items? 

While guns tend to get all of the attention, people tend to forget that there are laws regarding other implements of self-defense. Knife laws, for example, can be even more confusing than most gun laws. For example, in Delaware, carrying a concealed pocket knife with a blade greater than 3 inches is a felony unless you have a concealed carry permit, but you can legally carry any size knife if it’s in plain view (there is much more to these laws so if you’re planning to go to Delaware, do your homework). 

In some places, including Canada, carrying a small keychain sized can of pepper spray is illegal. However in many of those same places, including Canada, you can legally carry a large can of bear spray. Also, some National Parks in the U.S., like Yosemite , prohibit entering the park with bear spray. 

Speaking of bear spray, knives, bats, etc. Regardless of what you chose to protect yourself with, get training and practice. Bear spray, for example, isn’t as straightforward as it looks. Once on a camping trip with friends, we decided to practice with a can of bear spray that was past it’s expiration. We each took turns spraying it and it was eye opening to see how far it went but also how my recoil there was when sprayed. When one friend decided to give it a second shot, the wind had shifted and blew a small bit back at her. To say she was in misery from that would be an understatement. The lesson is that while you might stop an attacker, you may also stop yourself if you don’t know what you’re doing.

While the focus of this article is on traveling with firearms, whatever you decide to carry with you, ensure that you’re adhering to any laws of the state(s) you’re traveling to. 

Final Thoughts

Depending on which statistics you read, somewhere around 30-40% of Americans own or live in a home with guns . By my estimation, when many of these Americans take their RV out on vacation, some of those guns go with them. So traveling with firearms is relatively common, but the right precautions and planning need to be done in order to do it safely and responsibly.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

• New RVers Guide
• Travel Guide
• Campgrounds
• Boondocking
• National Parks
• Free Camping
• Essential Gear
• Cost of RVing
• One-on-One Coaching

Traveling With A Firearm (What You Need To Know)

• Post author: ontheroadwithcharlie
• Post published: June 15, 2023
• Post category: Blog
• Post comments: 0 Comments

I am the first one to admit that I am not an expert on the legal ramifications of possessing a firearm in every state of our country, or traveling through different states with a weapon. The purpose of this blog post is simply to offer a source of information that has been available to citizens for quite a while now, designed to help you should you desire to arm yourself in your state, or travel to others during your life.

This publication, ‘2023 Travelers Guide To The Firearms Laws of the 50 States’ has been recommended by numerous sources over the years that I’ve been involved in RV travel. I don’t profess to be able to refer to it as the absolute ‘authority’ on the topic. I do believe that it is a source of information you should at least consult before you travel into a state where the laws may be different than the state you reside in, and know you are legal.

The laws do change periodically, and this publication is updated to reflect the current statutes on the books for each state. The 2023 edition is available through this link . If you click it and purchase it, I will receive a small commission, however, you won’t pay more in the process.

The topic seems to generate controversy in today’s society, and that is not our intent in posting this. The right to protect yourself and loved ones, and how to achieve that end is for each individual to determine for themself. Doing so legally wherever you may be should be considered as you ponder that question.

You Might Also Like

End Of An Era

Some things never change, back to normal – in spite of the loons, leave a reply cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• RV Park Jobs – What are They Like?
• RV Awning Lights – LED Awning lights are Awesome!
• RV Travel With Firearms
• By Howard in RV Living

There are those who adopt the full time RV living lifestyle that do carry weapons on board their RV’s!  This important article is worth reading if RV travel with firearms is something you do.

A friend if mine, S.M. Ingersoll at laymenstactical.com was invited to help offer his valuable opinion on this subject.  I have no experience here.  He however has an extensive background in military and national security service as well as he is an NRA certified firearms instructor.

So here is what Mr. Ingersoll has to say on the subject!

Late last month, my father and I began a discussion about traveling with firearms.  My dad has purchased a small RV and was keen to hear my opinions on carrying a firearm while on the road.  This sent me on a trip of my own to do lots of research on the subject. I rarely travel myself so I had to rely on the experiences of others to formulate an educated answer to my dad, after all.

The first thing I did was look through several forums and blogs that are more dedicated to this particular issue.  The one thing that I was able to take from them is that research on your destination’s local and state laws is paramount.  First and foremost is the importance of the decision to carry a firearm with you in the first place.

Carrying a pistol or rifle come with an inherent responsibility that you owe to every single person, place or thing that you encounter.  Your decision to carry could affect the lives of many more than just yourself and travel companions.  Once that decision is made, the decision on what to carry comes into play.

The primary question here is; what is your perceived threat?  Do you spend a lot of time out in more primitive camping areas?  Are predatory animals a concern?  Do you tend to just pull up to any ole’ parking lot to take a rest for the night?  Truck stops?  What kind of lockable storage is available in your rig?  These are important questions to ask yourself and making a list of your answers is helpful.

RV Travel With Firearms!

Once you’ve narrowed down your needs then a selection is to be made. One thing to keep in mind is that RV’s are small cramped quarters.  Shouldering a shotgun or long rifle isn’t going to be a practical option inside the RV.  My suggestion here is to have a couple options on board.  A handgun of course, makes excellent sense inside a vehicle.  I also suggest the consideration of a pistol caliber carbine that shares an ammunition and magazine commonality with your handgun.  The same system applies if you’re more of a wheel gun fan, carbines are available in .38spc/.357mag and .44mag.

Of course, you have the option to carry whatever you wish, but this pairing in my opinion works well for the traveler. Whether you decide to go the route of a two firearm solution or a single firearm is a very personal decision and budget certainly comes into play here however, there are a few budget-friendly options in these categories that offer all the benefits at the price of one “top shelf” handgun.

Gun laws are what will be the most important thing to consider after you’ve decided to carry a firearm in the first place.  Different states and municipalities have different laws and ordinances and when you place yourself with a firearm in that area, your ignorance of these regulations will not be a defense to your prosecution if you are discovered armed.  These laws can limit the magazine capacity, length, and size of what weapon you can legally possess. There are a few websites that consolidate applicable laws in an easy to find database.  handgunlaw.us  is an outstanding and very well-researched example of one of these.

Getting yourself a concealed handgun permit/cwp/chl…whatever your state calls it, is a very advisable thing for you to do.  Many states have reciprocity with other states that allow you to freely carry your loaded and concealed handgun into and through that state, without fear of prosecution.  Be advised though, that these reciprocity agreements do tend to change some, so research immediately before your trip to see if anything has changed.

There are also many states that are so-called “ open carry ” states. This means that a loaded firearm can be openly carried without breaking any laws. What this means to the RV traveler is that your firearm can be close at hand provided that it is concealed from view in your rig.  Whatever state you are from, if you are able you should have a concealed cary permit regardless of where you plan to travel to.

If you still have any questions after your research is done, a phone call or visit to the attorney general’s website for the state you plan to travel to could help to clear up a lot of things.  Many places also recognize the fact that when your RV is no longer moving down the highway and is serving as your “home”, the legal definition of your vehicle changes to a dwelling much like a hotel room is recognized as your dwelling when you’re inside.  This is a good question to have in mind while you’re researching laws or if you call to the attorney general’s office.

If traveling through more restrictive states, the federal standard for transporting of a firearm is to have it locked in a secure area (locking storage box or safe) and ammunition is to be locked away separately. I myself have no desire to visit places that would require me to give up my right and ability to protect myself and my family.

The important thing to take away from this post is that your own research is necessary and so important to keep yourself on the right side of jail walls. The reason for traveling is to see wonderful sites and enjoy your time on the road. Simply ignoring the laws will result badly for you. Make good choices and train with your chosen firearms. laymenstactical.com .  That is what will make the difference if you’re ever forced to use them in defense.  Enjoy your travels and have fun. As always stay safe, train and have a good un’.

As Pam and I travel we keep the weapon handy, but locked and the gun ammo separate from the handgun per recommendations of Stephen.  If needed, the gun could be quickly placed into service.  If questioned we are abiding by the laws of most states.  Diligence is needed when it comes to gun laws to keep up with things as they possibly change!

Thanks to Mr. Ingersoll for allowing me to post this helpful article on RV travel with firearms.  Please visit for more information on education, instruction, and making the average gun owner more skilled with their firearm.

Blessings and Safe Travels, Howard and Pam

Summer 2015:   I recently visited with Stephen while we were passing through North Carolina.  He recommended a fantastic handgun that I bought, and I found it easy to handle.  His training skills are awesome!  He was able to teach me quite quickly how to SAFELY handle the gun.  I had never fired a weapon prior to that time but I found the process very enjoyable.  If you are in the Raleigh area, reach out to him if you want to be “armed and fabulous!”

Fall 2016 Update:  Pam and I were passing through North Carolina again and had a chance to visit with Stephen while at a local shooting range.  I joined he and his Dad to hone our skills shooting at targets. Stephen was awesome in helping me to correct a few shooting issues that take me left and low of my intended target.  Thanks Stephen!!

Skip to comment form

• Arnie Hart on February 28, 2020 at 3:20 PM

What do you do with your firearm if you cross the Border to Mexico?

• Howard on March 2, 2020 at 11:29 AM Author

At this point, we feel like we would never take our RV into Mexico so we have not investigated that option.

But, according to Mexico law: It is illegal to enter Mexico with a firearm without a permit from the Secretariat of National Defense. Mexican customs agents do not issue gun permits; this permit must be processed before you attempt to cross the border with any type of firearm or ammunition. Anyone entering Mexico with a firearm or ammunition without a permit could face up to five years in prison.

• Thomas G Reynolds on August 2, 2018 at 8:23 AM

I am new to RV Camping. I don’t like leaving my gun at home. There are a lot of campgrounds that say no firearms allowed. So. I have to either ignore their rules or don’t stay there. For now I want go out of North Carolina. When I arrive at my destination if they say no firearms . I either ignore it or go home.

• Howard on August 2, 2018 at 3:43 PM Author

Thanks for stopping by our website!

I don’t think any campground will have a problem if you keep your gun locked in an appropriate lockbox designed for weapons and the ammo kept in a separate location, even in another lockbox. Don’t go advertising that you have one, but obey the rules as if you were in a state that requests the same for travelers with weapons.

• Mark from Missouri on December 19, 2014 at 8:07 PM

Nice post! I’m adding check gun laws by state to my to-do list. I was thinking a handgun and a shorter – LEGAL – shotgun would be the way to go. I was thinking the ability to fire a slug in the shotgun might be required in a remote area. Hopefully we would never have to use them.

• Howard on December 19, 2014 at 8:18 PM Author

Thanks for stopping by again Mark! Yes, the second amendment allows us to protect our lives and property. We just have to be sure to be aware of each state’s laws so we don’t get in trouble. Next time I am in North Carolina I’ll be visiting Mr. Ingersoll!

Thanks also for linking my site to yours. I appreciate your help in passing along information to folks that are also considering the full time RV lifestyle!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published.

Welcome to yourfulltimervliving.com!

Your Full Time RV Living Social Links

Monitor your pets while away from the rv want to know the temperature in the rv and hear and speak to them.

Create Income Anywhere!

Recent Posts

• Safe T Plus Steering Stabilizer – Best Motor Home Steering Stabilizer
• Sir Winston – 2023 Full-Year Update
• Sir Winston – 2022 Full-Year Update
• Sir Winston – Full Time RV Late Fall 2021 Update
• Sir Winston Churchill – RV Corgi Late Winter 2021 Update
• Sir Winston Full Time RVing Corgi Winter 2021 Update
• Lindsey Full Time RVing Corgi Summer 2020 Update
• Acurite Weather Station – A Must for RVers
• Lindsey the Full Time RVing Corgi Winter and Spring 2020 Update
• Lindsey the Full Time RVing Corgi Fall 2019 Update- USS Lexington Museum
• Lindsey the Full Time RVing Corgi Late Summer 2019 Update
• yourfulltimervliving.com – Major Updates on July 29th, 2019!
• Lindsey the RVing Corgi Early Summer 2019 Update
• Texas Camping – Port Aransas RV Parks
• Full Time RV Living – Some of What We Have Learned After 11 Years
• Lindsey the RVing Corgi Winter 2019 Update
• Lindsey the RVing Corgi Early Winter 2019 Update
• Lindsey the RVing Corgi Fall 2018 Update
• Lindsey the RVing Corgi Late Summer 2018 Update
• How to Buy an RV – Our Latest Story
• Full Time RV Living and Small RV Motorhomes
• Lindsey, the RVing Corgi Early Summer 2018 Update
• Lindsey, the RVing Corgi Early Spring 2018 Update
• Lindsey, the RVing Corgi Winter 2018 Update
• Lindsey, the RVing Corgi Early Winter 2017 Update
• Kidde Safety Recall – Kidde Extinguisher Recall
• Lindsey the RVing Corgi Early Fall 2017 Update
• Pay Attention to Gas Prices Near State Lines!
• Lindsey, the RVing Corgi Summer 2017 Update
• Lindsey, the RVing Corgi Early Summer 2017 Update
• Royal Gorge Bridge Park
• Walmart Overnight Parking – Is RV Wally Docking Safe?
• Lindsey, the RVing Corgi Spring 2017 Update
• Driving I 10 Through Louisiana – December 2016
• Late Fall 2016 Update
• The NRVIA Saves Another One!
• Fall 2016 Update
• Late Summer 2016 Update
• Understanding Florida Concealed Carry Laws – Part II
• Understanding Florida Concealed Carry Laws
• Getting a Florida Concealed Carry Permit!
• RV Gas Mileage – Can You Improve Your Results?
• RV Fire Safety – We Almost Lost it All!
• RV Slide Out Problems – Lindsey’s Bark Report
• Spring 2016 Update
• RV Horror Stories – RV Inspections Needed!
• Lowering the Average RV Park Fees
• RV Newbie Tips – Lindsey’s Bark Report
• Full-Time RV Living: The Importance of RV Tire Maintenance, Part 3
• Inspecting a Used RV – Lindsey’s Bark Report
• Small RV Living Full Time Update
• Selecting an RV for Full Time RV Living!
• Natural Home Remedies Controlling Pest Insects Bugs – Lindseys Bark Report
• Winter 2016 Update
• RVing in Florida in Winter
• Full-Time RV Living: The Importance of RV Tire Maintenance, Part 2
• Full-Time RV Living: The Importance of RV Tire Maintenance, Part 1
• Fall 2015 Update
• Fur-ther Adventures of an RVing Corgi Dog
• RV Dehumidifier – Eva Dry Dehumidifier
• Full Time RV Living: Making Money While Enjoying the Lifestyle!
• An RVing Corgi Answer- How Does RV Water System Work!
• Thousand Trails RV Parks – Our Experiences
• Full Time RV Living: Buying a 5th Wheel or a Motorized RV!
• Is Full Time RV Living For You?
• Camping Etiquette – Lindsey the Corgi’s Bark Report
• Free Things to do at Niagara Falls
• Cabela’s RV Park – Our Recent Adventure!
• Passport America Campgrounds – Passport America Reviews
• Crossing Border Into Canada – Taking the Rainbow Bridge to Canada
• Boondocking with Dogs at Niagara Falls
• RV Safety Tips – Consider Weighing Your RV!
• Full Time RV Living Update
• Lindsey Lovin’ Small RV Living
• Glamping with Dogs RV Style
• Corgi Dogs and RVs United
• July 4 Pets Peeved
• RV Black Water Tank Problems – What Can You Do?
• RV Camping Dogs
• On The Road Again, from a Corgi’s Perspective
• A Beach Day
• RV Sewer Hose – One of the Joys of RV Life!
• Lindsey Living the RV Lifestyle
• Norcold Refrigerator Solutions – Ways to Avoid Problems!
• Control Dog Shedding – RV style!
• Finding Good Florida RV Campgrounds
• Full Time RVing Dogs – with Lindsey as the Co-Pilot
• Living in a Small RV!
• Full Time in a Small RV – How Small a Space Can You Live in?
• Tiny RV Homes – How Small an RV Can You Really Live In?
• 5th Wheel Platform – Build Your Own!
• Can You Learn How to Write a Blog for Money?
• Cheap RV Accessories – Cool RV Accessories
• RV Tire Pressure – Know Before You Go!
• RV Buying Tips – The Best is Inspect a Used RV!
• The Best RV Buy For Full Time RV Living!
• RV Kitchen Accessories – Love is a Portable Induction Cooktop!
• RV Inspection in Florida – For Full Time RVers Its a Must!
• Used RV Inspection – Don’t Leave Home Without One!
• RV Camping Clubs – Can You Gain By Joining?
• RV Mail Forwarding Service – Peace of Mind While Full Time RVing!
• Waterless Wash Wax Products – The Best Way to Let Your RV Shine On!
• RV Travel With Pets – Be Prepared So They Are Welcome Too!
• RV Hot Skin – Condition Causes Death of a Young Boy!
• RV Fire Causes – Ways to Save Your Life!
• RV Surge Protector – Can You Live Without One?
• Do It Yourself RV TV Mount
• Weigh Your RV For Safety Sake!
• The Best 5th Wheel RV For You
• When To Replace RV Tires
• Home Sweet Home – Full Time RV Living!

Recent Comments

• Howard on RV Water Heater Troubleshooting – Simple Maintenance Will Save You Money!
• Paul C on RV Water Heater Troubleshooting – Simple Maintenance Will Save You Money!
• Bo on New RV Inspection – Don’t Leave the Dealership Without One!
• Afton Jackson on Full-Time RV Living: The Importance of RV Tire Maintenance, Part 3
• Howard on RV Jobs – Affording the RV Lifestyle When Full Time
• February 2024
• January 2024
• January 2023
• November 2021
• February 2021
• September 2020
• December 2019
• August 2019
• February 2019
• January 2019
• November 2018
• August 2018
• February 2018
• December 2017
• September 2017
• August 2017
• January 2017
• November 2016
• October 2016
• August 2016
• February 2016
• January 2016
• December 2015
• November 2015
• October 2015
• September 2015
• August 2015
• February 2015
• January 2015
• December 2014
• November 2014
• October 2014
• RV Inspection
• Entries feed
• Comments feed
• WordPress.org

Do Not Let Your Dream Turn Into a Nightmare!

Turn Your Passion Into a Business!

Before You Buy an RV, Have the Oils and Coolants Tested!

• Privacy Policy
• Affiliate Disclaimer

© 2024 Your Full Time RV Living.

Made with by Graphene Themes .

TACTICAL TRAILERS - RV Traveling with Firearms.

Traveling with firearms can be stressful, especially when crossing multiple state lines, but it's not as difficult as one might think. As long as you do your research, finding what's required in each state will help ensure a smoother ride. (pun intended)

First things first, an RV by definition is a motor vehicle so the rules that would apply to an automobile would also apply to your RV, specifically the type you drive. Only when it is parked and utilities are hooked up does it begin to transition to more of 'dwelling' and thereby shifting how the local state laws function in comparison.

Now that we've established that your RV while on it's way towards whatever delightful destination you've selected, functions as a vehicle you'll want to make sure that you understand the rules for such. Under most circumstances you are required to transport your firearm-unloaded-ammunition separate- inside a hard locked case. Same goes for those of you pulling your travel trailer. The difference is, where exactly?

For towing vehicles storing that locked firearms case in your vehicle's trunk is ideal and preferred. No trunk? Don't sweat. Alternatively you can store it in either a back cargo area in your SUV or a cabinet in the RV furthest from the drivers cabin area. Essentially the idea is it should not be easily accessible while driving.

Some suggest the undercarriage storage on your RV, but personally I feel like that area is more vulnerable to theft (especially in rest stop parking lots), so my vote is in the very rear of the RV.

Now if you have a concealed carry permit, you may be legally allowed to continue carrying concealed while traveling, but it comes done to the states you are driving through. Best thing is to use the links below to confirm your State issued Permit's reciprocity with those states you will be traveling through. In some cases you may need to unload your firearm and store it locked in a box as mentioned above until you pass through the more restrictive states.

Another thing to think about is magazine capacity and ammunition restrictions. May not be a bad idea to pick up some 10RD mags for whatever gun you plan on traveling with and storing them in the RV or with your other travel gear. Finding out the night before your trip that the state your going to has a magazine capacity restriction could be a REAL bummer if you don't already have those 10RD mags. Same goes for ammunition. States like New Jersey do not allow hollow points, so it's probably another reason to avoid driving through NJ if you don't need to.

The biggest variable with traveling with firearms is how and when making stops changes the game. If you're pulling off the highway for gas or a quick bite, because you know you can't resist McDonald's fries while on a road trip, you're covered by FOPA (Firearm Owners Protection Act). BUT, if you decided to deviate from your route, make a few other pit stops in that state to see friends or even stay the night to catch some rest, now you are no longer covered by FOPA. At that time, you would then be considered a visitor to that state and must be compliant to their local state laws. That can be a big deal depending on where you land. My recommendation, unless you need to stop for gas, or a bathroom break, stopping for any length of time in "Non Free States" is a risk not worth taking. In March 2020 a new bill was introduced. (H.R. 5935) that clarifies the federal definition of “transport” to explicitly include stops for food, fuel, stays in temporary lodging, vehicle maintenance, an emergency, medical treatment, or any other activity “incidental to the transport.”. We'll have to wait and see how that will shake out, but it can definitely offer responsible gun owners another layer of Federal Protection.

So after traveling hundreds if not thousands of miles and consuming more Auntie Anne's rest stop pretzels that you did all last year you're going to want to make sure that the way in which you store your firearm is as reliable as what you have at home. Companies like Vaultek Safe, have an impressive selection of quick access safes for the home and for travel. Better yet, many of their safes offer multi entry options like biometric fingerprint, numeric keypad and manual backup key. The later is critical in my opinion because let's face it, electronics can sometimes fail and usually thanks to Murphy's Law, just when you need them. Having the option for a backup key access can make all the difference. I actually discovered the value of this firsthand after a previous manufacturer's safe died on me and my only recourse for opening it was quite literally 'breaking into my own safe'. Not good. After that I swore I'd pay just as much attention to the quality of the safe as I did my personal defense tool that went inside it.

Now that your RV is all hooked up you can rest a little easier knowing that it's state of being changes the definition to "Dwelling". This is an important distinction when it comes to 'use of force laws', also something you should research and understand for the state you've just traveled to. Best thing to do is a little research reading before your wheels hit the highway. To help guide you here are some valuable links.

CCW Reciprocity Map (Where can you Legally Carry?)

https://www.usconcealedcarry.com/resources/ccw_reciprocity_map/

Firearms Owners Protection Act (FOPA)

https://www.congress.gov/bill/99th-congress/senate-bill/49

Gun Laws by State (Firearms, ammunition and magazine restrictions)

https://lawcenter.giffords.org/browse-gun-laws/

Use of Force Laws by State

https://scharfflawfirm.com/self-defense-laws-u-s/

VAULTEK Safe (Great for storing your firearm at home or while traveling)

https://vaulteksafe.com

Laws change frequently. If you’re not sure about the current legal aspects of traveling with your firearm, check with an attorney. This content is for informational use only and is not a substitute for legal advice or verification of state laws. ⁣

Recent Posts

THE GREATER LESSON | Part #1: RESPONSIBILITIES

FACING GIANTS: THE VALUE OF TRAINING FOR THE EVERYDAY CITIZEN IN A WORLD OF GOLIATH’S

SURE SHOTS MAGAZINE Featured Story "Little Black Gun"

Everything RV and camping!

What You Should Know About Traveling With Firearms In Your RV

Is it legal to go RVing with firearms for hunting?

Can You Travel With Firearms In Your RV?

Are you at risk of fines or jail time when traveling with firearms? Guns can be a tricky topic; however, it’s essential to talk about so you are informed on the safety and laws of traveling with firearms in a camper.

People have mixed opinions about guns and who and where they should be allowed. We are not going to debate these topics. Instead, let’s discuss RVing with firearms for those who choose to do so.

Firearm ownership and transport come with laws and regulations to ensure the safety of the owners and the general public. For RVers and the context of this article, we will be looking at transport within an RV. Traveling by air with firearms has its own set of laws and regulations we won’t be discussing.

Due to the legal obligations and seriousness of firearm ownership, it must be noted that laws and regulations specific to you, your firearms, and your location must be adhered to. Priority number one for anyone legally traveling with a firearm should be training, certification, and competency in handling and using their firearms.

Why carry firearms in your RV?

In short, anyone who can legally do so and chooses to do so can RV travel with firearms. In this community, it is not a widely discussed topic; however, RVers do carry firearms for multiple reasons. As with homeowners who keep a firearm in their home for protection, some RVers feel more comfortable having a firearm in their motorhome or trailer. Reasons include:

• RVers often move around from location to location and may feel safer in unfamiliar places as well as in remote locations.
• Solo RVers in particular may choose to travel with firearms for this reason.
• RVing and the outdoors go hand in hand. It’s no surprise many RVers are also hunters and general outdoor enthusiasts. Heading out for a hunting trip or weekend of backwoods hiking is another common scenario in which someone would pack firearms in their RV.

As we will talk about next, the reasons people are traveling with their firearm is not as important as how they go about doing so.

Can I travel to another state with firearms?

Traveling with firearms in an RV falls under the same laws and regulations as with other vehicles. There are no special rules specifically for RVs, and as with many laws, there are differences from state to state.

You need to be aware of the laws in your state as well as any states you plan to travel through. If you travel through multiple states regularly or have a big road trip planned, there are guides available. Review the Travelers Guide To The Firearm Laws Of The Fifty States to learn about each state’s gun laws.

The Firearms Owners Protection Act is something firearms owners should also be familiar with. The FOPA, as it is commonly referred to, is federally regulated and allows persons who are legally allowed to possess that firearm and are licensed in their home state to travel through other states that recognize their state’s gun ownership regulations. 

There are some states that do not recognize other states’ regulations and have more restrictive laws. In these cases, you may still be able to transport the firearms but under more strict laws and additional requirements.

Federal firearms laws vs state firearms laws

There are many laws and regulations for firearms owners to know. To make things even trickier, there are federal laws that encompass the entire United States as well as state laws that vary from state to state.

We can’t dissect all these laws here. Just know that as a firearms owner, you are responsible to know the laws that apply to you. A particular firearm that you legally possess in your state and federally are allowed to own may be restricted in certain states regardless of what another law says. The same goes for concealed carry laws. They vary from state to state, and you must comply with state-specific gun laws while traveling.

Firearms laws are serious business, as they should be. You don’t want to be caught in a position where you could face fines or even jail time. The ATF website has a list of federal laws. It also has the laws of each state that you can view before carrying firearms in your RV.

Tips for traveling with firearms in an RV

There are two things that really matter when it comes to traveling with firearms in your RV.

• You have to carry firearms safely.
• And you have to do it legally.

There are some things that are not up to you to decide. For example, you can’t decide how the firearm is stored or what gun documents you need to carry.

There are some things, however, that are good practices you can do to have trouble-free travel. For firearms owners, these will be common practice and common sense. If you own a firearm but haven’t traveled with it or are just thinking about purchasing one, think about the following before traveling with firearms.

• Keep your documents together and easy to access.
• Be open and transparent.
• Have a checklist to look at prior to travel so you have everything and are not in breach of any laws.

Where to store your guns (in the RV or tow vehicle?)

When traveling with a towable RV like a fifth wheel or travel trailer, storage of firearms is best in the tow vehicle. Your tow vehicle, in most cases, will be more secure than your RV. Cheap locks, many windows, and a lack of alarms make RVs an easy target for theft.

If you plan on leaving the country and driving between the United States, Canada, and Mexico, this open ups a much larger array of laws and requirements. Mexico has strict laws about bringing firearms into the country and for the most part is a no-go.

For American citizens, traveling to Canada with firearms is more common and can be done. There are, of course, laws and regulations to follow. If you plan on crossing the Canadian border in an RV , you should preplan your trip. Be prepared for the Canadian border crossing and dealing with Canadian firearms law enforcement during your trip. 

You are responsible to understand laws about carrying guns in your RV.

Get tips from other RVers

If you are thinking about traveling with firearms while RVing, talk to other RVers who do so. Reaching out to instructors at firearms training centers is also helpful to learn about safe gun transportation practices.

One of the best parts about RVing is engaging with the community of traveling enthusiasts. iRV2 forums allow folks to chat with other RVers online, and get other perspectives on everything RVing, including products, destinations, RV mods, and more.

Continue reading:

• Can RVers Carry And Camp With Guns?
• Crossing the Canadian Border in an RV

The post What You Should Know About Traveling With Firearms In Your RV appeared first on RV LIFE .

Source: https://rvlife.com/traveling-with-firearms-rv/

US National Park Week – April 20 – 28, 2024 – RV Lifestyle Magazine

Family RVing in Missouri: Great Escapes RV Resorts Branson

Destination Central Florida: Southern Oaks RV Resort

What RVers Should Expect During the 2024 Solar Eclipse

Oroville, Washington: The Gold at the End of the Road

7 New Products for your Camping Adventures – RV Lifestyle Magazine

What Are The TSA Rules For Traveling With A Firearm?

• In the first quarter of 2024, TSA intercepted 1,503 firearms at airport checkpoints, averaging 16.5 per day.
• 93% of the firearms intercepted were loaded in both Q1 2023 and Q1 2024, with a total of 6,737 firearms detected in 2023.
• Passengers are allowed to travel with a firearm if it's declared, secured in checked baggage, locked, and unloaded.

The US Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has published its latest statistics on the number of firearms detected across the country. In the first quarter of 2024 alone, TSA intercepted 1,503 firearms at airport checkpoints nationwide, averaging 16.5 per day.

This figure is broadly in line with the same period last year, when 1,508 firearms were intercepted, which gave an average of 16.8 per day. 93% of the firearms were loaded in both Q1 2023 and Q1 2024. Throughout the whole of 2023, a total of 6,737 firearms were discovered at US security checkpoints .

When it comes to the total number of passengers screened by TSA, more than 206 million passengers passed through TSA checkpoints in Q1 2024, a significant increase from the 191 million seen in the same period in 2023.

What are the rules when traveling with a firearm?

Firearms are prohibited at airport security checkpoints and in the passenger cabin of an aircraft. According to TSA rules, passengers are allowed to travel with a firearm, providing a set of strict conditions are met. The regulations state that the firearm must be:

• Secured in the passenger’s checked baggage
• Locked in a hard-sided case
• Packed unloaded
• Declared to the airline when checking the bag at the ticket counter.

TSA Administrator, David Pekoske, reiterated the importance of following the correct procedures when it comes to traveling with a firearm, saying,

“While it is certainly promising that the rate of passengers bringing firearms to the checkpoint has decreased, one firearm at the checkpoint is too many. The demand for air travel is as strong as ever and security is always our number one priority. Every time we discover a firearm at the checkpoint, the security screening process is slowed down for all. Traveling with a firearm is allowed and it must be packed properly as checked baggage and declared to the airline at the ticket counter. We always recommend passengers start with a clean bag when they pack to ensure no firearms, weapons, or other prohibited items are present.”

Severe consequences for those who don't follow the rules

If a passenger is found with a firearm at the airport security checkpoint, local law enforcement is called to unload it and take possession of it safely. Depending on the circumstances, the passenger may subsequently be arrested and face a fine of up to $15,000, as well as being banned from using TSA PreCheck for five years. For repeat offenders, further fines and civil penalties may be applied.

A Brief Guide To TSA PreCheck

In order to help avoid such situations, TSA took to Twitter earlier today to share its top tips for traveling with a firearm:

The TSAs 10 Weirdest Catches Of 2023

What do you make of the latest firearm statistics released by TSA for the first quarter of 2024? Share your thoughts by commenting below.

Home    British Columbia     Idaho     Montana     Oregon     Washington     Wyoming HOME >>>    Idaho >>>    North Central >>>    Moscow

Where to stay and what to do in Moscow

VISITOR INFORMATION

ACCOMMODATIONS

FOOD AND BEVERAGE Bakeries Coffee and Espresso Ethnic Food Fast Food Pizza Restaurants

ATTRACTIONS

Nearby Communities Coeur d'Alene, ID Lewiston, ID Pullman, WA Spokane, WA

More North Central Idaho Cottonwood Elk City Elk River Grangeville Lapwai Lewiston Moscow Orofino Peck Potlatch Riggins Spalding White Bird

Idaho Travel Regions and Maps Map   Central Map   Eastern Map   North Idaho Map   North Central Map   South Central Map   Southeast Map   Southwest

North Central Travel Region Moscow, Idaho

Explore Moscow in more detail by clicking through the pages listed below and the links they provide to more detailed descriptions and presentations:

VISITOR INFORMATION ACCOMMODATIONS Bed and Breakfast Campgrounds and RV Parks Hotels and Motels Vacation Rentals FOOD AND BEVERAGE Bakeries Coffee and Espresso Ethnic Food Fast Food Pizza Restaurants ATTRACTIONS ACTIVITIES SHOPPING

Go Northwest! Bookstore  Best selection of books on the Northwest. Click here!

Go Northwest! ®     gonorthwest.com (tm)

Go Northwest! ® gonorthwest.com (tm) and GoNorthwest.com (tm) are trademarks of Go Northwest, LLC All original text, maps, photographs, and other images on this web site, as well as the compilation and design thereof, are Copyright © 1997-2019 Go Northwest, LLC.   All rights reserved.

2018 Primetime Emmy & James Beard Award Winner

R&K Insider

Join our newsletter to get exclusives on where our correspondents travel, what they eat, where they stay. Free to sign up.

A History of Moscow in 13 Dishes

Featured city guides.

• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Vacation Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

Brilliant, safe and interesting fun... - Shooting Range Labyrinth

• Europe    
• Russia    
• Central Russia    
• Moscow    
• Moscow - Things to Do    
• Shooting Range Labyrinth

I went there, because I wanted to try AK47, it was my first time shooting assault rifle, the lady... read more

We booked an experience here with a translator through Viator using a pistol, ak47 and a draganov... read more