Helping prevent caravan theft

One of the purposes of our Safety & Security newsletter is to support you to avoid the theft of your caravan. Here’s the latest update on on how to avoid caravan theft from our Caravan Cover claims team.

Whilst we’ve seen a reduction in caravan thefts during 2024, caravans will always be desirable items for thieves, and caravans of all values continue to be stolen. In recent months, high-value and well-maintained caravans seem especially targeted.

Having a caravan stolen is always traumatic. Not only do you lose a prized possession, but there may often be sentimental value to your outfit or contents, not to mention the hassle (however minimal) in making a claim and the challenges of sourcing a new outfit. So, there’s never a wrong time to offer up some reminders on how to reduce the risk of your caravan being stolen.

1. Make it harder to steal

Use good quality security products, such as an accredited hitch lock, and a wheel lock or clamp. Ideally, fit an alarm and tracker to your outfit too. The more deterrents the better!

2. Use secure storage

Our claims data shows that a large proportion of stolen vans were taken while stored on farms and farmland - Club storage or other storage sites accredited by CaSSOA (especially their ‘Gold’ or ‘Platinum’ sites) are usually the most secure. Remember that availability near to you could be limited. Check what security the site you choose has (e.g. barriers, CCTV and on-site personnel for instance) and be sure to check the features listed for that site are working too.

3. Home storage

If you keep your caravan at home, try to keep it out of sight of the main road and difficult to access; for example keep it in a back garden behind a locked gate, as thieves tend to target what they can see. In addition to the security devices already mentioned, if possible use a security post and consider installing automatic security lights and CCTV on the outside of your home. A cover may also help disguise the caravan’s attractiveness too.

4. Stay vigilant

Make sure security devices are fitted properly even if you are only making a short stop en route, for example at motorway services. Many thefts are opportunistic, so don’t give them the chance, and watch out for any suspicious behaviour.

5. Help with recovery

Report any theft to the police and your insurance claims team as soon as possible. Ensure alarms and tracking subscriptions are active and that your registration details are kept separate to your outfit. The first 24 hours after a theft are often key.

For more information on security and storage please visit our Advice and training web pages.