Motorhome owners urged to improve vehicle security

Motorcaravanners are being encouraged to take some simple steps to improve their motorhome security, after caravan and ‘van theft increased by 29% year-on-year by the end of August.

The warning was issued by stolen vehicle recovery experts Tracker, with Clive Wain, Head of Police Liaison, saying: “Criminal gangs are taking advantage of high demand and the resulting higher prices, stealing motorhomes and caravans to serve the burgeoning market. In 2020, Tracker recovered over one million pounds worth of stolen caravans and motorhomes, and this figure is set to be even higher this year.”

Adding deterrents like a hitch lock, wheel clamp (see our best motorhome wheel clamp guide if you need one) and alarm system can help to make life harder for thieves, but should they be successful in stealing one, it can prove difficult for the police to locate it unless a tracking device has been fitted.

Wain added: “We have seen too many cases where criminals have been able to quickly cut through barriers, locks and other physical deterrents, taking just seconds to steal valuable vehicles parked on driveways. And it’s not just caravans and motorhomes parked at home that thieves are targeting. Secure, premium storage facilities that boast top of the range security measures are increasingly being targeted. Criminals are determined, especially when the cash rewards are high.”

“Getting away for a break in your own motorhome or caravan at any time of the year is a fantastic experience and invaluable for families, couples and individuals. To have that opportunity taken away by a thief is absolutely heart-breaking, especially as the purchase would have been such a huge investment for most. First time and experienced leisure vehicle owners alike must take steps to protect their vehicle and their holiday dreams, including fitting a Tracker device to give them the best possible chance of being reunited with their caravan or motorhome if it is targeted by thieves.”

To help keep your motorhome safe, Tracker has issued the following advice:

Install approved physical deterrents, including hitch locks, deadlocks and wheel clamps.
Avoid keeping any valuables in your motorhome.
The same goes for registration documents – getting a hold of these could make it easier for thieves to sell your vehicle.
Make sure you lock all of your motorhome’s doors and windows.
If you’re buying a secondhand motorhome, see if it has a tracker fitted. If it does, you should be able to reactivate it.
If you want to store your motorhome somewhere for the winter months, pick a site that provides good security options, instead of a low price.

Take a look at Diamond Dave’s tips for keeping your ‘van protected too.

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Peter Byrne

Peter is the Content Editor for Practical Caravan and Practical Motorhome. With over half a decade of experience as a digital editor, Peter’s expertise spans from interiors and homes to food and design. Writing for the website – and occasionally the magazine – Peter oversees the online buying guides, features and news. His career to-date has seen him do everything from launching websites to giving a speech to 250 people at the Tower of London with less than 24 hours notice.