If you’re new to caravanning, one of the last things you want to think about is caravan theft. But with more and more Aussies joining the lifestyle every year, caravans are becoming an increasingly popular target for thieves, and their theft a real concern. Luckily, whether you’re storing your van at home, setting up in a caravan park, or stopping for a break on the road, a few smart security measures can go a long way.
So how do you keep your caravan safe? Let’s run through the essentials.
Lock It Up: The Basics of Caravan Security
The simplest way to deter thieves is to make your caravan as difficult to steal as possible. Always lock your doors and windows, even if you’re just stepping away for a few minutes. It might sound obvious, but an unlocked van is an easy target, and one small chink in the armour can be the difference between whether or not your van is still there when you get back.
Beyond that, investing in a few key security accessories is well worth it:
- Wheel clamps fit over the wheel nuts and lock your caravan’s wheels in place, making it impossible to tow. Choose a sturdy model with a concealed lock and a bright paint job as an extra visual deterrent.
- Hitch locks prevent anyone from attaching your caravan to their tow vehicle. Pairing one with a jockey wheel lock adds an extra layer of protection – doubly so if they’re in a highly visible colour.
- Security lighting with motion sensors can startle would-be thieves and draw attention to suspicious activity.
Security is all about layers. The harder you make it for someone to take your caravan, the more likely they are to move on, so make sure you invest in heavy duty locks and clamps and reliable sensors and lights.
Storing Your Caravan at Home
When your caravan isn’t in use, where you store it makes a big difference. A locked garage is ideal, but if that’s not an option, here are a few ways to improve security:
- Park it out of sight from the street to avoid drawing attention.
- Use a caravan cover to keep it hidden.
- Install external lights with sensors or security cameras around your property.
- Let a trusted neighbour know when you’re away so they can keep an eye on things.
An unattended caravan in a driveway can be a clear sign that you’re not home. If you’re heading away without it, using timer switches or smart lights inside your house can help make it look occupied.
Protecting Your Caravan While Travelling
Security doesn’t stop when you hit the road. Whether you’re stopping at a caravan park, a rest stop, or free camping, it pays to stay vigilant.
- Always lock up before heading off for the day or going to sleep.
- Park in well-lit areas with other travellers nearby.
- Use hitch locks and wheel clamps to make towing difficult. You’d be surprised how many caravans have been stolen while their owners are sleeping inside.
- If possible, park with the hitch facing away from the road so thieves can’t just hook up and drive off.
- Store valuables out of sight and keep curtains drawn when you’re not inside.
Even a quick stop at a servo can be risky. It only takes a minute for someone to take advantage of an unlocked caravan.
High-Tech Security: GPS Trackers & Anti-Theft Devices
If you want extra peace of mind, a tracking device is a smart and worthwhile investment. Tracking devices are attached to or stored in your caravan, and if it is stolen, a GPS tracker can help the authorities locate it quickly. Some models even let you monitor battery levels and alarm status remotely.
Although a dedicated caravan tracker is the best approach, generic trackers like an Apple AirTag serve the same purpose, and can be bought for less than $100. Another option is the WiTi Anti-Theft System, which is an intrusion detection system that uses PIR sensors to detect motion inside your caravan and automatically applies the brakes while setting off an alarm.
It’s one of the most effective ways to prevent theft, and is generally considered to be the gold standard for anti-theft systems.
Caravan Insurance: Your Backup Plan
Even if you have unmatched security in place, things can still go wrong, which is where your insurance comes in. A good policy covers theft, damage, and break-ins, so you’re protected no matter what happens.
Before choosing a policy, check:
- Whether theft is covered.
- If personal belongings inside the caravan are included.
- Any security requirements, such as wheel clamps or hitch locks.
Insurance is one of those things you hope you never need, but you’ll be glad you have it if you do.
Buying a Caravan? Watch Out for Scams
With caravans in high demand, scams are more common than ever. If you’re shopping for a van, make sure you’re dealing with a legitimate seller.
Red flags to watch for:
- Prices that seem too good to be true. If it’s way below market value, be cautious.
- Sellers who won’t let you inspect the caravan in person.
- Pressure to pay a deposit before seeing the van.
- Missing or suspicious VIN details.
Before committing to a purchase, check the caravan’s VIN number online to ensure it hasn’t been reported stolen. Buying from a reputable dealer is always the safest option.
Start Your Journey to Caravan Ownership with Credit One
Caravan security isn’t complicated, but a little effort can go a long way in protecting your investment. Whether you’re storing your van at home or off on an adventure, combining good security habits with the right equipment will help keep your caravan safe.
But if you’re still eyeing up your dream caravan, we can help with the next step. With extensive access to a wide range of brokers and caravan finance options, including secured caravan loans, private sale caravan loans, and camper finance, we make it easy to finance your perfect caravan in a way that fits your budget.
Use our caravan loan calculator to see just how affordable caravan financing can be, and contact us today to speak with one of our knowledgeable and experienced brokers. Credit One is Australia’s best-reviewed finance broker.
