There’s something really special about a caravan holiday, whether you’re heading off on an adventure to one of the many amazing campsites here in the UK, or you have your own little static caravan hideaway, each trip is unique.
But it’s also important to keep your caravan safe and secure to avoid it being damaged or even stolen; caravan theft is a huge worry, as well as being an awful experience, but how do you keep your caravan secure? What measures can you take?
We’ve put together a guide to securing your caravan, both static and touring, so that you can have peace of mind and enjoy your holiday.
WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO SECURE YOUR CARAVAN?
Alarms
There are lots of different alarms available for caravans, from small ones that are fitted to doors and windows, to more sophisticated alarms with motion sensors. Some alarms can be connected to your home alarm system, or even to a tracked device if you have one.
Immobilisers
These stop the caravan being moved without first being unlocked. They either fix the wheels to the axle or disable the electric systems, making it impossible to tow away.
Tracking devices
These will alert you if your caravan is moved and allow you to track it, some may even alert the authorities.
Wheel clamps and hitch locks
These make your caravan difficult to steal by immobilising either a wheel or the hitching mechanism.
Security marking & VIN etching
Security marking is when you put a unique code on parts of your caravan, and VIN etching is when the Vehicle Identification Number is etched onto the windows. The VIN is also known as the CRiS number (Caravan Registration & Identification Scheme), which is a national database for caravans; any caravan manufactured since 1992 will automatically be registered with the database. These markings not only act as a deterrent, but they make it harder for your caravan to be sold for parts. They also help in the recovery of stolen caravans.
CCTV & security lighting
Visible CCTV and security lighting may mean that your caravan is less likely to be targeted by thieves.
WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN STORING YOUR CARAVAN
Remote Storage
It’s worth thinking about storing your caravan in a site that’s accredited by CaSSOA (Caravan Storage Site Owners Association) as they’re likely to have full CCTV coverage and an active presence on the site.
Remember to check:
- Location – a facility that’s visible from the road is more likely to attract attention. Also, check things such as the flooding risk etc.
- Is it staffed?
- What kind of surface will your caravan be stored on? For example, on a concrete surface or in a field that could be difficult to access in wet weather.
- Is there an option for it to be stored under cover?
- Has it got strong/secure fencing/gates?
- How/when can you access the site?
- Are other services available, such as cleaning or servicing?
Storing at home
A cheaper, and more convenient, option is to store your caravan at home as it makes it easier to carry out maintenance and cleaning or load it up for a last-minute trip.
Try to keep it out of sight from the road, e.g. in a back garden with a locked gate, or with some of the security devices mentioned earlier.
It’s a good idea to position it with the hitch head pointed away from the road in a way that would make it more difficult for a thief to hitch it up and tow it away.
Remember to remove any valuables from your caravan, including seat cushions and upholstery as thieves are more likely to target something that doesn’t need money spending on it to replace upholstery etc.
Leave the cupboards and blinds open so potential thieves can see there isn’t anything of value.
DO YOU NEED CARAVAN INSURANCE?
You’re not legally required to insure your caravan, but it is recommended as then you’ll be covered if your caravan is stolen or damaged. Your insurance company may require you to have certain security requirements for either your touring or static caravan, and you may receive discount on your premium for having extra security in place.
Caravan theft is a huge problem in the UK, with 4,000 caravans stolen each year, and while no security measure is 100% thief-proof, as you can see from our customer testimonial, they will help to make your caravan more difficult to steal and anything you can do to increase your peace of mind is good – which is where insurance comes in.
The Insurance Emporium offers both static and touring caravan insurance, each with three policy types to choose from that can be tweaked with optional benefits. Visit our website or give us a call and find out about insuring your caravan.
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We offer a variety of cover levels, so please check the policy cover suits your needs before purchasing. For your protection, please ensure you read the Insurance Product Information Document (IPID) and policy wording, for information on policy exclusions and limitations.
