Motorhome, Campervan & Caravan Security Advice
With more people staying at home this summer, demand for caravans and mobile homes has increased and is likely to lead to a rise in theft. You can take some simple measures to keep your caravan and mobile home safe, whether you are parking at home or a campsite, travelling or stopping at the motorway services.
Caravans left on sites, parked on driveways and even static caravans can be a target for thieves. Newer models are likely to be more desirable to criminals’ but it does not mean that older models are not also at risk.
Thefts of mobile homes and campervans is often by organised gangs so please use our top advice tips to reduce this crime – don’t consider each measure below in isolation, as we recommend using a combination of physical and technical security together to keep your possessions safe, both at home and whilst travelling. You can then have greater peace of mind and enjoy your holiday.
Top Tips for Caravan Security
Register it
Subscribe to one of our approved caravan and motorhome registration and identification schemes. Unique and clear identification markings on your van are not only an effective deterrent, but they can greatly assist with recovery and provide the police with vital information about your caravan.
Install a tracker
Installing an alarm makes any theft more difficult and your caravan less attractive. Fit a Secured by Design (SBD) approved tracking device so the caravan can be traced if stolen. SBD have several members which specialise in this area and can advise on the best system and fitting of the product for your caravan or motorhome.
Physical security
Try and make your vehicle unattractive to steal, if the thief has to spend more time breaking the security products he could move on to an easier target. Consider fitting a combination of several products such as a hitch lock anti-theft device, wheel clamps, pedal locks, locking wheel nuts and steering wheel locks.
SBD approved ground anchors with a high attack rating is another option to be considered. You may also want to fit a breathable cover, these can be customised to help identification.
Lock all windows and doors
It takes minutes for a thief to search through a caravan and their job is made simpler if they can get in easily. Lock the roof lights, gas compartment and any external lockers, as these can sometimes provide access to the habitation area.
Do not leave the spare keys for the caravan, car or any other security locks inside. Also, consider closing the blinds and curtains, potential thieves may hesitate if they think someone is sleeping inside.
Restrict access
If your caravan is parked on the driveway, consider closing any gates at night or when you are not using your vehicle. If you don’t have gates, a vehicle bollard will provide an extra visible deterrent. When parked at home you can fit a breathable caravan cover, these can sometimes be customised to help identification.
Record details
Keep a record of serial numbers, chassis and model numbers and take note of any custom marks on the caravan or trailer. Take colour photographs from several angles and additionally take videos with a smartphone if possible, including roof markings. If stolen, being able to track and identify your caravan or trailer is vital.
Security marking
Security marking your caravan using an SBD recognised forensic asset marking is another highly effective, visible deterrent to thieves and an established method of reducing theft.
Personal items
Never leave personal or valuable items in your caravan and do not leave any documents in relation to the caravan inside as this could at a later date help a thief sell it on.
Secure your number plates
Fit theft-resistant number plate fittings. Stolen number plates are commonly used to hide the identity of stolen vehicles. Use one-way clutch head screws to secure number plates.
Catalytic converter theft
This type of crime is on the increase due to the high price of precious metals. Some models are more at risk to this type of crime so speak with your dealer or manufacturer. Catalytic coverter locks or guards are a good way to keep your campervan safe. Once an unmarked converter has been removed from a vehicle it’s quite difficult to match it to that vehicle, as there aren’t any distinguishing marks.
Security marking of catalytic converters is possible with a heat resistant marking system and is best applied by a garage when the vehicle is being serviced. For advice on marking and Cat-locks please visit Catalytic Converter Marking SystemMore information can be found here: Catalytic Converter Theft
Keyless car theft
Any vehicle fitted with a smart or passive key which allows you to gain entry and start your vehicle without the need to interact with your vehicle’s key are susceptible to a type of theft called “Relay Theft” and both cars and vans are at risk. More information can be found here: Relay Theft
Swivel the seat
If you have a swivelling driver’s seat on your motorhome or campervan, turn it to face the rear and lock it in position if possible using an SBD approved padlock. This will make it difficult to turn back around to the driving position.
Bike and motor cycles
If you have a bike or motor cycle rack on the vehicle lock them securely, especially overnight and when visiting motorway services. Additionally, fit security chains and locks. For further advice for your bikes or motorcycles visit our other pages. SBD approved security products can be found here: Accredited products
CCTV
CCTV can be a deterrent and help protect both your caravan and home. If you do decide to use CCTV it is important to read the Information Commissioners Office (ICO) advice on Domestic CCTV systems. Click the button below to find out more:
