Keeping Your Caravan Safe: Top Security Tips for Peace of Mind

By their very nature as desirable objects, new caravans can be a bit of a target for vehicle theft, and they can also be a target for burglary and vandalism. Keeping your caravan safe and secure needs a mix of robust equipment, careful regular habits and vigilant behaviour. This edition of our blog outlines the practical steps and equipment you need to help you protect your caravan, whether you’re on the road, parked up at a site or storing it for the winter.

Physical security measures are always the first line of defence against theft, and you can find many of them at the Lowdhams Accessory Shop. These deterrents are visible, and add time and complexity to any theft attempt, so therefore discourage potential thieves from trying to break in.

• Wheel clamps: These are essential for immobilising your caravan when it’s parked up. Choose a heavy-duty clamp made from hardened steel, painted in a bright (and therefore highly visible) colour. Make sure the clamp is compatible with your caravan’s wheel size and covers lug nuts to prevent removal.
• Hitch locks: This secures your caravan to the tow vehicle or prevents it from being attached to another vehicle when it’s parked up. This type of lock fits over the coupling mechanism, preventing anyone from hitching up and driving off with your caravan. Get a hitch lock that has a high-security rating (ideally, one that is approved by insurers, as this will potentially lower your premiums).
• Corner steadies lock: While not as well-known, these are useful additions to the security set-up of a caravan. They are small but effective locks that fit over the stabiliser legs and add yet another layer of immobilisation.

An alarm system is one of the most effective things you can use as a deterrent when it comes to caravan theft. Many modern alarms have sensors that detect movement within the caravan or unauthorised access to the doors and windows.

Advanced systems can include alerts which are sent to your mobile phone (or laptop, etc), so you can take immediate action if there’s a break-in. Some alarm systems come with a decibel rating – so, ideally, you should choose one that’s loud enough to seriously attract attention. If possible, buy an alarm that’s got a battery backup so that it still works even if the main power supply is cut – and test it regularly.

Tracking devices are invaluable for caravan owners, especially when concerned about potential theft at those times the caravan is left unattended. GPS trackers, often small and discreet, can be attached to areas of your caravan that are hidden to the naked eye and relatively inaccessible. In the event of theft, these devices mean you can track the caravan’s location in real-time.

Some tracking devices come with tamper alerts and remote tracking, so you can see if your caravan is being moved. Make sure to choose a tracking system that includes real-time capabilities and doesn’t need frequent battery replacements.

Windows and doors are the usual points at which burglars get in to caravans. To reinforce the security at these points, you should replace standard locks with high-security versions which have been specifically designed for caravans. An additional lockable bar on the door or window frame can help ensure they close tightly. Security film on windows is, though less well known, another effective measure that reinforces windows, making them much harder to break. Security film also means that should glass be broken when a window is struck, it will remain in place, preventing easy access and perhaps buying a little time when, potentially, passers-by are alerted.

It may seem almost too simple to mention, but leaving a light on in your caravan when you’re out can be a deterrent for would-be intruders, as it gives the impression that someone is inside. Even better, using a few different lights within the caravan which have randomised timers can create the appearance of activity.

Many caravan owners use low-energy LED lights for this reason, particularly models that have timers that turn on and off automatically (or smart features that can be controlled from a mobile phone). If you’re parked up at a campsite, try to position your caravan near any other campers, or within a well-lit area as thieves are less likely to target vehicles in visible or frequently used locations.

Security cameras, add an extra layer of protection – especially those with smart capability. Some caravan security cameras are equipped with motion sensors and can send alerts plus live feed of footage to your mobile phone whenever movement is detected (within defined zones of the camera’s view). Smart cameras allow you to monitor the caravan’s security from anywhere where you have a functioning internet or mobile phone signal.

To achieve the maximum possible security from cameras, consider choosing a weatherproof model with night vision. Position cameras so that have a good overview of key areas such as the door and windows. Bear in mind that although a camera won’t prevent a theft attempt outright, it’s a strong deterrent – and, in the event of a theft taking place, it will capture valuable evidence.

When you’re intending to stay on a campsite in your caravan, try to choose one that has good security infrastructure. Some offer gated access, CCTV or even security personnel. These things make it less likely for theft to occur and offer additional peace of mind.

Once you’ve arrived at your chosen site, as we mentioned earlier, position your caravan to minimise risk. Park with the door facing a visible, open area rather than concealed spots or far corners of the site. Try to avoid setting up near the campsite’s exit, as thieves tend to prefer easy escape routes. Introduce yourself to nearby campers – a friendly ‘neighbourhood watch’ vibe can work wonders for your security, and everyone else’s.

Keep your valuables out of sight. This is a fundamental rule for caravan security. Items like phones, electronics, wallets, handbags and other possessions should be stored in a lockable compartment. Make use of the caravan’s under-seat storage (and other hidden compartments) to stow things away. For further peace of mind, consider securing smaller valuables with a safe. There are compact, affordable safes which are designed specifically for use in caravans. When they’re bolted in place, they are a strong deterrent, and are very difficult to remove without a lot of time and effort.

Routine checks are important to make sure that the security features you’ve put in place remain in good working order. Over time, locks, clamps and other things can become worn or damaged, which affects their effectiveness. Make yourself a checklist to inspect security components and use it each time you set out and return from trips in your caravan. Regularly test the alarm system, make sure your tracking device is charged or powered, and make sure all clamps and locks are securely fastened. By staying on top of these things, you reduce the risk of any unexpected failures that could otherwise leave your caravan vulnerable.

If you’re storing your caravan in a facility during the off-season, make sure it’s a reputable, secure location – such as the one offered by Lowdhams. The best will have CCTV, gated access and even security personnel. If it’s possible, avoid keeping your caravan in an open driveway or unsecured location. Wherever you choose to store it, remember to implement all of your security features – including wheel clamps, hitch locks and corner steady locks. Remove valuables, and check on the caravan on a regular basis, especially after severe weather.

Keeping your caravan safe and secure is about combining physical measures, staying vigilant and being mindful of storage. By investing in equipment such as alarms, tracking devices and locks, and by following practical security behaviours, you can reduce the risk of theft or vandalism to your pride and joy. Whether you’re out and about, parked up at a campsite, or storing your caravan off-season, following the tips we’ve offered here can help keep your vehicle secure. It’ll also provide peace of mind and allow you to focus on the fun of your travels.