Caravan theft and security

We had our caravan stolen from our drive last November (2018). We only had it 2 months.  I thought I would draw people’s attention to security. Especially newbies to caravaning. 

Please don’t ever assume your caravan is safe from theft. Even if you have insurance approved security devices. Having been a victim, I have done a lot of research and discovered that caravan theft is quite common and professional thieves will go to any lengths to steal a caravan. I’ve read of walls being knocked down and trees being cut down to steal a caravan. I drive passed many houses where a caravan is just sitting on a drive waiting to be towed away.  Please don’t let these thieving swines spoil your enjoyment. My point is, don’t make it easy for them.  Don’t scrimp on security.  The more you have, the harder it will be for them to steal you pride and joy. I’m not going to endorse or complain of any particular product. Do your own research.  My advice would be.

1. Put a good quality wheel lock on each wheel, not just one

2. Invest in 4 corner steady locks, not just 1 or 2

3. A good quality hitch lock is a must

4. Have a professional gps tracker fitted that is monitored 24/7

5. Fit another diy gps tracker as a back up

6. Have your car reg made up as a sticker and fit it to the caravan roof. Look at eBay for that

7. Fit a remote movement sensor alarm inside.

8. Fit a second door lock (Fiamma)

9.  Fit window locks (Google ‘lock em out’)

10. If possible, fit a strong chain around the corner steadies and anchor it to the ground.

11. Fit a CCTV to monitor your van.

12  Security mark you valuables inside the caravan with a UV pen.

The window locks and extra door lock wouldn’t stop your van from being stolen but will make it a bit harder to break in if it’s contents they were after.

Personally I think the more security you have, the harder it is for the thieves, but nothing will stop the determined ones that turn up with cutting gear.  When I reported our theft to the police, I was told that that they change the windows ASAP and cut the CRIS number from the chassis.

I think caravan manufacturers should be doing a lot more to help prevent theft. 

All we can do is make it as hard as possible for them to steal it. I hope my advice helps some of you.