As summer arrives and the days get longer, thousands of people across the UK hit the road in their campervans and caravans, ready for staycations, festivals, and coastal getaways. But while these vehicles offer freedom and flexibility, they also come with unique security challenges.
Campervans and caravans are attractive targets for thieves because they often contain valuable items, from electronics and personal belongings to tools and leisure equipment. At Parker Auto Locksmiths, we regularly help owners with lost keys, lock repairs, and vehicle security advice.
In this blog, we’ll share our top tips for keeping your campervan or caravan secure this summer, helping you protect your vehicle and enjoy peace of mind on your adventures.
Why Campervan and Caravan Security Matters
Your campervan or caravan isn’t just a vehicle — it’s also your temporary home. That means you’re not just protecting the vehicle itself, but everything inside it.
These vehicles are at risk when:
- Parked on driveways or at home
- Left unattended at campsites or holiday parks
- Parked on public streets or in motorway services
- Stored long-term over the winter months
Unfortunately, determined thieves can target both the vehicle and its contents, making it essential to use layered security measures to deter and delay any attempted theft.
Essential Campervan and Caravan Security Tips
Here are Parker Auto Locksmiths’ top recommendations for keeping your vehicle secure this summer.
Always Lock Doors and Windows
It sounds simple, but many thefts happen because doors or windows are left unlocked — even briefly. Whether you’re heading out for a walk from your campsite or stopping at a motorway services, make sure every door and window is securely locked.
Double-check the cab doors, habitation door, storage lockers, and any rear or side doors. If you have older locks that are worn or unreliable, consider upgrading them before your summer trips.
Install Additional Security Devices
Relying on factory-fitted locks alone may not be enough. We recommend adding extra layers of security, such as:
- Steering wheel locks: A visual deterrent that makes the vehicle harder to steal.
- Handbrake locks: Prevent the vehicle from being moved easily.
- Wheel clamps: Ideal when leaving your caravan or campervan parked for long periods.
- Deadlocks or slamlocks: Strengthen doors and help prevent forced entry.
- Window locks or guards: Reduce the risk of break-ins through windows.
These devices increase the time and effort needed to steal your vehicle, making it less attractive to thieves.
Use a High-Quality Alarm and Immobiliser
Many modern campervans come with alarms and immobilisers as standard, but if yours doesn’t, it’s worth investing in a professional installation.
An alarm system will alert you and others to any break-in attempts, while an immobiliser makes it far harder for thieves to drive the vehicle away. Make sure any aftermarket system is fitted by a qualified technician and meets insurance-approved standards.
Fit a GPS Tracking Device
A tracking system won’t prevent theft, but it dramatically increases the chances of recovering your campervan or caravan if it is stolen. Many trackers allow you to:
- Monitor your vehicle’s location in real time
- Receive tamper or movement alerts on your phone
- Share live tracking information with the police
Some insurance companies even offer discounts for vehicles fitted with approved tracking systems, so this upgrade could pay for itself over time.
Secure Valuables Inside the Vehicle
Thieves aren’t just interested in your caravan or campervan — they’re also after the valuables inside.
Laptops, cameras, phones, sat navs, and even passports can all be targets.
When you’re away from the vehicle, store valuables in a hidden safe or remove them entirely. Keep curtains closed or use window blinds to prevent people from seeing inside, and avoid leaving tempting items in plain sight on tables or seats.
Park Smart
Where you park can have a big impact on your security. Choose:
- Well-lit, busy areas when parking in public
- Campsites with good security, such as CCTV and gated access
- Driveways with motion-sensor lights or visible cameras when parking at home
When possible, park with the habitation door or storage lockers close to a wall or fence to make access more difficult.
Keep Spare Keys Safe
Never hide spare keys under the vehicle, in storage compartments, or in nearby bushes — thieves know exactly where to look.
Instead, keep spare keys securely at home or with a trusted friend or family member. If you lose your keys or need a replacement, contact a professional auto locksmith like Parker Auto Locksmiths for expert key cutting and programming.
How Parker Auto Locksmiths Can Help
We understand the unique needs of caravan and campervan owners. Our services include:
- Emergency lockout assistance if you lose your keys or lock them inside
- Cutting and programming spare keys for peace of mind on long trips
- Replacing lost or stolen keys quickly and efficiently
- Upgrading vehicle locks for added security
- Supplying and fitting aftermarket security devices such as deadlocks or immobilisers
Our team offers mobile services, meaning we can come directly to your home, campsite, or storage facility to help.
Final Thoughts
Your campervan or caravan is a big investment — and protecting it should be a top priority this summer. By combining strong physical security, smart parking habits, and expert locksmith support, you can reduce your risk of theft and focus on enjoying your travels. Contact us to learn more.
Parker Auto Locksmiths is here to help you stay secure on the road. Whether you need replacement keys, emergency assistance, or advice on upgrading your security, we’re just a phone call away.