No matter what time of year it is, it's important to make sure your caravan in safe from theft during and after your travels. Here are some top tips from the RACV.
The Victorian Crime Statistics Agency reported a 25 per cent increase in car trailer thefts in Victoria over the year to June 2024, with 1750 reported stolen during this period.
RACV Head of Motor Insurance and Roadside Products Kirsty Hayes highlighted that there are methods to preventing trailer and caravan thefts and urges owners to consider these precautions given the increase in offences.
Here are some of the RACV’s top tips for preventing the theft of your trailer:
Wheel locks:
Devices such as a heavy-duty wheel clamp will immobilise your trailer, preventing thieves from easily taking it away.
Trailer tongue locks:
Fits in or over the trailer tongue, preventing a thief from inserting a hitch ball by plugging up the coupler, meaning they can’t drive off with your trailer. Make sure that any tongue lock you use is made from strong metal, is tool and pick resistant and has a key or combination mechanism.
Trailer hitch locks:
Prevents thieves from uncoupling your trailer from your tow vehicle. The hitch lock replaces the regular hitch pin, and typically uses a protective cap secured by a lock cylinder or padlock so that the hitch pin can’t been slid out to uncouple your trailer.
Wireless alarm:
This will make a loud sound if tampered with and can scare thieves away and/or alert you or those nearby of the attempted theft.
GPS tracking devices:
These can be quite small and hidden somewhere on your trailer. That way if your van is stolen, you can track its location to inform the police.
Bright markings:
Consider adding bright and/or obvious markings on your van/trailer to make it unique and thus more recognisable if it is stolen (it can also make them much harder to resell).
Avoid unnecessary stops:
When possible, drive straight to your destination to avoid stopping in places where you might put yourself at risk.
Safe storage:
When the trip is done, make sure you park in a safe location, whether that’s a locked garage or shed, behind a locked gate or in an area well-lit by sensor lights. And put something in front of your van/trailer to block its exit path.
Don’t leave items unattended:
If you’re leaving camp, don’t leave your valuables out in the in a visible location where they can be easily targetted by opportunistic thieves. Store them securely where they aren’t visible so that you don’t tempt thieves.
Organise caravan or trailer insurance:
Protect yourself against potential loss by organising insurance suitable for your caravan, RV or standard trailer. RACV has various plans on offer.
Head to the RACV website for more information.
THE NEXT STEP
If you want to learn the latest caravan news, find the most innovative new caravans and camping gear or get inspired to plan your next adventure to some of Australia's most beautiful spots and holiday destinations, subscribe to our weekly newsletter. We promise to send you only the best content.
Related articles:
Caravan safety with the WiTi Anti-Theft System | Part one
Top tips to ensure a safe caravanning experience
RACV's top tips for how to prevent trailer theft