We have used the tv/vcr many times in the van. We set it up between the two front seats on a wooden stand(husband made). But yes we did strap it down. We used what they call motor cycle straps. They are nylon with buckles that allow you to tighten them.It is very important to secure both the tv and the stand. If there was ever an accident imagine the TV being thrown around the inside of the vehicle. You can get these straps at Home Depot, Cnadaian tire or at camping/hiking stores. We always secured the TV to the base of the front seats to ensure it wouldn't move if anything did happen.