The unfortunate truth is that the theft rate of motorhomes is on the increase. Therefore, keeping your much-loved home on wheels safe against thieves should be your top priority.
In this post, we’ll share our top motorhome security tips to ensure your mobile haven remains protected, whether you’re on the road or parked at home.
Motorhome security tips
To help you keep your motorhome secure, we’ve divided our tips into two categories: tips for when you’re not traveling and tips for when you’re on the go.
Top motorhome security tips for when you’re not adventuring in your motorhome
1. Store your vehicle at a dedicated motorhome parking facility
If you own a motorhome, it is important to ensure that it is well-protected when not in use. One way to do this is by keeping it at a secure storage site.
These facilities are designed specifically for motorhome storage and typically offer a range of security features.
For instance, they often have gated access, which means that only authorised personnel can enter the premises.
Additionally, many of these facilities have CCTV cameras installed throughout the property, enabling them to monitor activity 24/7.
Some of them also have on-site staff who can provide an extra layer of protection by keeping a close eye on the motorhomes stored at the facility.
By taking advantage of a secure storage site, you can have peace of mind knowing that your motorhome is well-protected even when you’re not using it.
2. Secure your driveway and home
If you must park your motorhome at home, there are several security measures you can take to ensure that it is safe and secure.
One option is to invest in motion-activated lights that will illuminate the area around your motorhome if any movement is detected.
This can be a great deterrent to thieves who may be lurking around your property in search of an easy target.
Another option is to install security cameras that will allow you to monitor your motorhome from anywhere, at any time, giving you peace of mind that your property is secure.
You can choose from a range of different cameras, from basic models that simply record footage to more advanced models that can be accessed remotely and even send alerts to your phone if any unusual activity is detected.
Finally, a gated driveway can also be an effective security measure, preventing unauthorised access to your property and keeping your motorhome safe and secure.
By investing in these security measures, you can not only protect your motorhome, but also provide added security for your home, giving you the peace of mind you need to enjoy your travels without worrying about the safety of your property.
Top motorhome security tips for when you’re out and about in your motorhome
1. Choose well-lit, secure parking areas
When traveling, try to park your motorhome in well-lit areas with plenty of visibility. This makes it more difficult for potential thieves to approach your vehicle without being noticed.
2. Get to know your neighbours
When staying at a campground, introduce yourself to your neighbours. Building a sense of community can provide extra security, as fellow campers are more likely to watch out for each other’s motorhomes.
3. Lock all doors and windows
Always double-check that all doors and windows are locked before leaving your motorhome unattended. A simple oversight can make it easy for someone to break in.
4. Be cautious with your keys
Keep your motorhome keys safe and secure at all times. Don’t leave them lying around, and avoid hiding a spare key on the motorhome’s exterior, as thieves know where to look.
5. Don’t leave valuables in plain sight
Keep valuables out of sight when you’re not in your motorhome. This will make your vehicle less of a target for thieves.
6. Be cautious with social media
While it’s tempting to share your travel experiences in real-time, doing so can alert potential thieves to the fact that your motorhome is unoccupied. Consider waiting until you return home to post about your adventures.
Motorhome security devices
Investing in security devices can provide additional peace of mind and protection for your motorhome. Here are some of the most popular options to consider:
1. GPS motorhome trackers
GPS trackers allow you to monitor your motorhome’s location in real-time. In case of theft, a GPS tracker can help authorities locate and recover your motorhome more quickly. Look for models with features like geofencing, which can alert you if your motorhome leaves a designated area.
GPSBob have a fantastic range of GPS Vehicle Trackers perfect for your motorhome. Plus, If you want even more protection for your motorhome, consider purchasing a Thatcham certified insurance GPS tracker.
Take a look at the 6 best motorhome trackers for 2023 in our best motorhome tracker guide
2. Wheel clamps
Wheel clamps are a visible and effective deterrent against theft. They prevent your motorhome from being driven away by immobilising the wheels.
Choose a sturdy, high-quality wheel clamp designed specifically for motorhomes to ensure maximum security.
3. Steering locks
A steering lock is another effective anti-theft device that prevents the steering wheel from being turned.
It makes it difficult for thieves to drive away with your motorhome, and its highly visible nature serves as a deterrent.
4. Upgrade door & window locks
Enhance your motorhome’s security by upgrading the door and window locks. High-quality locks can make it more difficult for thieves to gain access to your motorhome.
Consider installing deadbolts or additional locking mechanisms for added protection.
5. Alarm systems
Installing a motorhome alarm system can provide an extra layer of security. These systems can detect unauthorised entry and alert you and those nearby with an audible alarm.
Some advanced models also send notifications to your smartphone, allowing you to act quickly in case of a break-in.
6. Camera systems
Surveillance cameras can help you keep an eye on your motorhome, whether you’re nearby or far away. They can deter thieves and provide evidence in case of an incident.
Opt for a system that includes night vision and motion detection capabilities for optimal security. Some camera systems can also be connected to your smartphone, allowing you to monitor your motorhome remotely.
7. Immobiliser
An immobiliser is an electronic security device that prevents the motorhome’s engine from starting without the correct key or fob.
Many modern motorhomes come with factory-fitted immobilisers, but if yours doesn’t, you can have an aftermarket system installed.
This added layer of security makes it more difficult for thieves to drive away with your motorhome.
8. Motorhome safe
Consider installing a safe inside your motorhome to store valuables such as passports, cash, and important documents.
A motorhome safe should be bolted to the floor or chassis to prevent it from being removed by thieves.
Choose a safe with a robust locking mechanism and a design that blends in with your motorhome’s interior to keep your belongings secure.
Personal Safety Tips for Motorhome Owners
When traveling in a motorhome, it’s important to take personal safety precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Here are some tips to consider:
1. Be aware of your surroundings
Always be mindful of your surroundings, especially in unfamiliar areas. Avoid parking in isolated or poorly lit areas, and stay alert to any suspicious activity around your motorhome.
2. Have an emergency plan
Develop a plan for emergencies, such as medical incidents or unexpected breakdowns. Make sure you have a first aid kit on board, and keep important phone numbers handy.
3. Carry a personal alarm or personal GPS tracking device
A personal alarm can help you attract attention if you feel threatened. Consider carrying one with you when exploring unfamiliar areas. Personal GPS trackers are also great if you’re adventuring in unknown places, allowing friends or family to easily locate you.
4. Stay connected with friends and family
Keep in touch with loved ones regularly to let them know where you are and how you’re doing. This can provide added security and peace of mind for both you and your loved ones.
Remember to always prioritise your personal safety as well as the security of your motorhome while traveling on your adventures.
What happens if the worst happens and your vehicle is stolen?
If your motorhome is stolen, it can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. However, it’s important to know what to do to increase the chances of recovering your vehicle and minimising financial loss.
Let’s look at the steps to take if your motorhome is stolen, including contacting the authorities and activating your GPS tracker if you have one.
We’ll also discuss the financial implications of motorhome theft and the importance of having proper insurance coverage.
1. Contacting the authorities
If your motorhome is stolen, it’s important to contact the police as soon as possible to report the theft and obtain a police report.
Provide them with as much information as possible about the stolen motorhome, including any security devices or tracking systems installed.
The police report can be used to provide proof of the theft to your insurance company and can also assist law enforcement in locating your motorhome if it is recovered.
Remember to act quickly, as the chances of recovering your motorhome decrease the longer it remains missing.
2. Motorhome Insurance
If your motorhome is stolen, it’s crucial to contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the theft and file a claim. Make sure you have all the necessary documentation, including the police report and proof of ownership.
It’s also important to ensure that you have proper motorhome insurance coverage in the first place. Check your policy to make sure it includes comprehensive coverage for theft, as well as any additional coverage you may need, such as liability insurance or roadside assistance.
If you don’t have motorhome insurance or if your policy doesn’t provide adequate coverage, consider upgrading or purchasing a new policy that meets your needs. Remember, the financial impact of motorhome theft can be significant, so it’s important to have proper protection in place.
3. Use your GPS tracker
If your motorhome is equipped with a Thatcham-approved insurance GPS tracking system, the first step is to contact the tracking company as soon as you realise that your vehicle has been stolen.
A level one police response should then be activated alerting the local authorities that a theft has occurred.
Depending on the type of GPS tracking system you have, you may be able to access information about your vehicle’s location using a mobile app or web portal.
If your tracking system includes a geofencing feature, you can set up a virtual boundary around your motorhome’s location. If the vehicle moves beyond the boundary, you’ll receive an alert, allowing you to take action quickly.
Remember that GPS tracking systems can be a valuable tool in recovering stolen vehicles, but they aren’t foolproof. Thieves may attempt to disable or remove the device, so it’s important to take additional security measures to protect your motorhome.
4. Assessing the financial impact
If your motorhome is stolen, there can be significant financial implications. Depending on your insurance policy, you may be responsible for paying a deductible before your insurance coverage kicks in.
Additionally, if your motorhome is not recovered, you may be faced with the cost of replacing it. Keep in mind that motorhomes can depreciate quickly, which means that the amount you receive from your insurance company may be less than the amount you paid for the vehicle.
Finally, if you make a claim for motorhome theft, it can potentially impact your future insurance premiums. Your insurance company may view you as a higher risk and charge you more for coverage.
To mitigate these potential financial impacts, it’s important to have adequate insurance coverage, including comprehensive coverage for theft. You can also take steps to prevent theft by investing in security measures such as GPS trackers, wheel clamps, and alarms.
Key Takeaways
In conclusion, the theft rate of motorhomes is unfortunately on the rise, and it’s important to take steps to protect your mobile home. By following the tips and investing in security devices, you can significantly reduce the risk of theft and have peace of mind while you’re on the road or parked at home.
Remember to also prioritise personal safety while traveling in your motorhome, and have an emergency plan in place in case of unexpected incidents.
Finally, if the worst happens and your motorhome is stolen, act quickly by contacting the authorities and your insurance company, and make sure you have proper insurance coverage to minimise the financial impact.
