Guide to Caravan Security: Everything you need to know
Pitching up somewhere new in your home from home? There’s nothing like it. Whether you’ve got a brand-new caravan or invested in a fixer-upper, it’s important to protect your caravan and its contents.
Because of advances in caravan technology and improvements in construction techniques, caravanning is now a year-round activity. Some caravan parks even have licences to operate all year round.
Whether you’re new to caravanning or an old hand at the game, our guide to camper and caravan security measures will help you keep your second home safe from theft.
Where to store your caravan to keep it safe
Many caravan owners take a break from holidays on the road over the colder winter months. Leaving your caravan unattended means it’s vulnerable to theft, so it’s vital that you store your caravan securely.
Driveway security products for storing your caravan at home
If you decide to store your caravan or camper on the drive at home, you could be risking theft. To keep potential thieves at bay, aim to store the caravan out of sight. Consider installing locked bollards or gates as this helps to make access to your portable home more difficult.
Pros and cons of caravan driveway storage
Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| No storage fees | May not be legally possible |
| Convenience | Eyesore complaints from neighbours |
| Easy to use | Will need to invest in home security measures |
| Easier to maintain your caravan or camper | |
| Freedom to travel when you need |
Keeping your caravan on a storage facility
If storing your caravan on your drive is not practical, consider a Caravan Storage Site Owner’s Association (CaSSOA) storage site.
Many storage sites have:
- CCTV
- Gated entry points
- Perimeter fencing
- Alarm systems
Choosing a storage site offers the peace of mind of knowing that your caravan is safe.
Pros and cons of caravan storage parks
Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Secure compound | Annual cost |
| CCTV monitored | May not have flexible access to your caravan |
| Doesn't have to be stored at home | |
| Potential for cheaper caravan insurance |
Security features for your caravan
Caravan insurers may require that you add theft prevention devices to your caravan as a condition of your insurance. But as well as this, these methods will act as a fantastic deterrent to opportunistic thieves.
Hitch locks
These locks cover the hitch and make it almost impossible for your caravan to be towed — giving you peace of mind. Choose a hitch lock that has a Sold Secure guarantee and that fits your hitch well, as they are more difficult to tamper with.
Wheel Clamps
Wheel clamps lock your wheels in place so that they can’t be moved. Clamps also keep your caravan from rolling away if it’s placed on an incline. Be sure to pick one that fits the tyre size of your caravan.
Alarms
A caravan alarm will sound if somebody tries to gain entry to your trailer, drawing attention to the burglary.
A movement monitor alarm and tilt sensor will alert you if a thief attempts to drive off with your caravan.
Modern technology allows alarm systems to send instant messages to your mobile phone, keeping you in the know.
Tracking devices
Caravan trackers allow you to locate, monitor and retrieve your caravan if it is stolen. Tracking devices are often connected to an alarm system or a separate battery source. You may be required to pay a monthly or annual subscription to keep your caravan protected. If your caravan is moved unusually, you’ll receive an alert from the tracking device company so that you can investigate further.
The trackers are easy to set up. Simply download an app, connect the tracker using your serial number and security token, and register the device. You may also be asked to upload a picture of your caravan too.
Forensic protection
It’s also possible to security mark your caravan with a forensic marker. These liquids are completely transparent, but each contains a unique forensic code that means it is always linked to its owner. This forensic liquid is virtually impossible to remove and can be used across different parts of the caravan. Then, mark your trailer with a sticker to deter potential thieves.
Caravan Registration and Identification Scheme
The Caravan Registration and Identification Scheme (CRiS) helps to prevent and deter caravan crime. It is a national register of UK touring caravanners, similar to the DVLA. CRiS registration proves you are the registered keeper by linking your caravan’s unique 17-digit VIN number to your CRiS keeper record.
Keep your caravan safe
Whether you store your caravan on your driveway, in a caravan storage park, or somewhere else, make use of security products to deter potential thieves.
Whilst you’re at it, make sure that you have a Caravan Insurance policy to help protect your purchase.
