Keeping your motorhome secure from theft and break-ins

Owning a motorhome is obviously a big investment, in terms of both the money and time spent on it. Unfortunately, motorhomes can also be attractive targets for thieves, as they can be quickly driven away, often without leaving a trace. So, to safeguard your pride and joy, you do need to take a proactive approach to its security. The police data on motorhome and caravan theft shows that around 4000 of these vehicles are reported as stolen every year in the UK, so we’re talking about quite a lot of incidents here - and that’s only the ones that are actually reported, so the numbers could be higher.

In this article, we’ll look at some practical and effective ways to protect your motorhome; to help prevent it from being stolen in the first place, and to help you and the police get it back if it does sadly go missing. 

If you can implement a number of these precautions together, then even better!

1. Install a GPS tracker

A GPS tracker is one of the most effective tools to help you recover your stolen motorhome. These devices allow you to monitor its location in real-time, often via an app on your phone. Many modern trackers come with geofencing features, sending you alerts if your motorhome moves outside a designated area. There’s a lot out there, but those with Thatcham certification will have passed rigorous testing and are deemed to be of a high standard.

When choosing a GPS tracker, look for a device with a long battery life, discreet installation and reliable coverage. They do need to be hard to find when installed as otherwise they could be quickly disabled and removed. 

Subscribing to a monitoring service can also ensure your motorhome’s quick recovery in the event of theft - do remember to keep any subscriptions up to date, however.

2. Fit a wheel clamp and a steering lock

Wheel clamps are an excellent physical deterrent, making it nearly impossible for thieves to drive off with your motorhome. Clamps should be robust and certified by a trusted security organisation. Look for a model that fits securely to your motorhome’s wheels and resists cutting or drilling. Choose one that’s easy (for you!) to fit and remove, but still offers maximum protection.

Make sure also that the steering lock is a decent, heavy-duty one - it’ll take some time to be removed by a thief, without a key, and this is exactly what you want.

If you want to go even further, you can get a clutch lock too, although they can be a little tricky to fit if there isn’t much room to bend down to install them.

3. Install an alarm system

A loud alarm system can scare off potential thieves and alert you or people nearby to any suspicious activity. Motorhome alarms are designed to detect unauthorised entry, movement or tampering. Some of the more advanced models can also integrate with the GPS trackers we mentioned above, and send alerts directly to your phone.

Consider placing visible alarm stickers on your motorhome’s windows to act as an additional deterrent - thieves are less likely to target a motorhome that clearly has decent security measures in place.

4. Use security cameras 

Lots of people install security cameras these days, which act both as a deterrent and also then provide footage for you to take to the police to help identify the perpetrators of any crime committed. Like with the alarm system, it’s worth advertising the fact that you have them installed as a deterrent. Some people put up fake cameras, which may put thieves off, but obviously wouldn’t help if the thieves or vandals go ahead with their business as there will be no recording available. 

5. Fit an immobiliser

If your motorhome hasn’t come with an immobiliser, it’s a really good idea to fit one, as this prevents the vehicle from moving even if it’s been hot-wired without a key or fob.

6. Secure your doors and windows

Don’t make it easy for them! Make sure to lock your motorhome up properly, especially when you aren’t in it, and close the curtains or blinds if possible so that people can’t see what you’ve got inside.

While modern motorhomes generally come with sturdy locks, upgrading to higher-security versions can provide extra peace of mind for you. Keyed-alike systems are also a decent option to consider, allowing you to use one key for all locks so you could upgrade everything in one go. (We also know how easy it is to lose all the different keys needed for motorhoming!)

For windows, consider fitting locking mechanisms or secondary locks to hopefully prevent forced entry. Also, don’t leave spare keys lying around in the motorhome where they could easily be seen or found.

7. Choose a secure storage location

If you’re not using your motorhome for extended periods, consider storing it in a reputable motorhome storage facility. Look for sites with facilities that have robust security measures, including CCTV, gated access and regular walk-arounds.

8. Use a safe

If you’re storing money and high-value items, it’s worth investing in a safe that you can put somewhere discreet. You could also use a UV pen to mark your valuable items with your contact details. This makes it harder for thieves to sell stolen goods and somewhat increases the chances of their recovery if they’re found.

9. Consider using a motorhome cover

When your motorhome is not being used for a while, a high-quality cover not only protects against the elements but also helps hide the vehicle from opportunistic thieves. Using one with locking straps or cables will prevent it from being easily removed, and generally make it a bit of a time-consuming faff for thieves to find out what’s underneath.

10. Take some common-sense precautions

This might include always parking your motorhome in well-lit areas when travelling, using a CCTV camera at home to monitor your driveway, and avoiding leaving valuables visible inside your motorhome, especially when it’s parked or unattended. Be sure to keep a record of your motorhome’s details, including its serial numbers, unique features, and some photos, in case the worst does ever happen.

So, there’s a decent amount of options for you to consider when it comes to your motorhome’s security. Having a motorhome stolen is a distressing experience, but by implementing as many of these security measures as possible, you can significantly reduce the risk of it happening to you. 

Be mindful also that many insurers will specify their required security measures, but sadly some owners do not comply with these conditions. If their vehicle is then stolen, the claim could be dismissed - don’t let this happen to you.

Let us know in the comments of any other security measures that owners could take!