Caravan security devices

Once you have splashed out on a new caravan, you will want to protect your investment to ensure you get many years of enjoyment out of it.

In addition to purchasing caravan insurance, there are a number of steps you can take to help prevent your vehicle being stolen or broken into.

A wide range of caravan security devices are available on the market that will help give you peace of mind and could even reduce your insurance premiums.

There is a long list of options, but some of the main choices are:

  • Wheel locks and clamps
  • Hitch locks
  • Immobilisers
  • Tracking devices
  • Alarms
  • Ground anchors or security posts

  • Locks, clamps and other static security

    To make your caravan really secure, you will want to take steps to stop people breaking into it or removing it from your home.

    Wheel locks and clamps are one of the most simple options that act as a deterrent to thieves, as well as making it more difficult to move the vehicle. They are easy to fit and remove - if you have the key - and are ideal for use both at home and while you are touring.

    Hitch locks are another option. This device covers the towing hitch assembly fixing bolts, making it impossible to attach the caravan to another vehicle and tow it away.

    When you are leaving your caravan at home, you may want to use a ground anchor to keep it in place - either on your driveway or in the garage.

    Security posts are similar although these are cemented into the ground and physically prevent the caravan from moving.

  • Alarms, immobilisers and trackers

    Caravan alarms work in a similar way to home or car alarms and will be set off when an intruder is detected inside the vehicle. This is a good way to protect the possessions inside, as well as the caravan itself, and the loud noise will often act as a deterrent to thieves.

    Immobilisers, meanwhile, will prevent any would-be thieves being able to drive away with your caravan in tow.

    They utilise a bolt system that locks the wheel to the axle and prevents it being moved without first unlocking it.

    If the worst does happen and your caravan is stolen, you will want to recover it as quickly as possible and this is where a tracking device can be invaluable.

    There are a range of products on the market, some of which use a VHF signal, a global positioning satellite or even technology from mobile phones. Regardless of which you choose, you are likely to find that it helps speed up the search for your vehicle.

  • Security schemes for caravans

    When you are looking at the various caravan security devices on the market, you should endeavour to choose products that have the Sold Secure endorsement.

    Sold Secure will rate items in three main categories - Bronze, Silver and Gold - although certain caravan security products carry a Diamond standard. Approved products undergo rigorous testing so can be sure you are purchasing something of a high quality.

    The Caravan Registration and Identification Scheme (CRiS) was established by the National Caravan Council and gives you a document stating you are the registered keeper of the vehicle.

    You can always sign up for CRiS Xtra, which will provide you with an additional way of marking and identifying your vehicle by way of an electronic tag and 1,000 micro dots.