For many people, a motorhome or campervan is their most valuable asset after their home and for some, it’s their most expensive possession all together. For many of us a motorhome is more than just a vehicle, along with being a big investment it holds special memories and gives escape and freedom from everyday life, so the thought of it being stolen is deeply unsettling.
Unfortunately, thefts do occur, and when they do, the stress and panic can be overwhelming. To help you stay calm and act quickly we’ve laid out the steps to take if your vehicle is ever stolen, so you can be prepared and informed should the worst ever occur.
Report to the Police
If your motorhome or campervan is stolen, report the theft to the police as soon as possible, the sooner you report your vehicle as stolen the more likely your chances of recovery. The police will take key details such as your vehicle registration, make and model, identifying features and any relevant information about the incident, and will then give you a crime reference number.
Timely reporting is also essential for insurance purposes. For many insurance policies you are required to notify the police as soon as reasonably possible if your vehicle is lost, stolen or broken into. Failing to report the incident promptly could affect your claim and its payout.
Tracking Your Motorhome
If your vehicle is fitted with a tracking device, you should contact your tracking provider as soon as possible. They can begin live tracking the location of your vehicle and work with the police to help support a fast and successful recovery.
A high quality tracking system is one of the most effective security tools you can have when it comes to thefts. Tracking systems can increase the chances of recovery of stolen vehicles by up to 95%[1], making them an invaluable investment for any motorhome owner.
If you don’t already have a tracker installed, we recommend a Thatcham approved Category S5 or S5+ tracker which have 24/7 monitoring by a control centre and real time GPS tracking.
Notify your Insurer
You should also inform your insurer of the theft as soon as possible. You must provide your insurer with your crime reference number and full details of the incident. Early notification helps ensure your claim is processed smoothly and your claim is settled.
Facebook Groups & Online Communities
Posting a photo and details of your stolen motorhome or campervan such as your registration, the make and model, and the area it was taken from in relevant motorhome and campervan groups can also be helpful. Group members may be able to provide you with information about your vehicle location if they’ve spotted it or if it’s been abandoned in their area, you can then pass these leads onto the police to investigate.
There are even certain Facebook groups such as the “Stolen Motorhome Database” dedicated to sharing information about stolen motorhomes and campervans, these groups help increase visibility on stolen vehicles.
How to Secure Your Motorhome: Top Tips to Prevent Break Ins
Wheel clamp mounted on vehicle, security device or illegal parking, motorhome, van, car or caravan
Image source: Brian Jackson – Adobe Stock
Motorhome and Campervan thefts and break ins are on the rise in the UK particularly during the darker winter months when vehicles are less in use, making strong security measures more important than ever. Taking a few preventive steps can drastically reduce the risk of theft and deter criminals. Below we’ve listed 8 steps to help secure your Motorhome or Campervan from theft, helping you keep safe year round!
- Show Visible Deterrents
Use wheel clamps, steering wheel locks, or pedal boxes. Thieves prefer easy targets so visible security often deters thieves.
- Track and Alert
Fitting a quality GPS tracker and alarm system can alert you of suspicious activity and greatly increase recovery chances if your vehicle is broken into and taken.
- Lock Up Tight
Always double check all doors, windows, and roof lights are properly locked. Consider adding additional locks for extra protection.
- Protect Your Keys
Store the keys to your motorhome or campervan indoors, away from windows and doors. If your vehicle uses a keyless entry system, store your fob in a Faraday pouch to block relay signals.
- Store Safely
Choose a secure storage site with locked gates and CCTV. If you’re keeping it at home, park nose-in against a wall or behind a locked gate.
- Light Up the Area
Install motion sensor lights around your driveway or storage spot as thieves dislike being visible.
- Remove Temptation
Take out valuables from your motorhome. Leave cupboard doors open so it’s clear nothing inside is worth stealing.
- Avoid ‘Frosting Thefts’
Frost thefts occur when vehicle owners leave the engine running to warm up and defrost. Never leave your keys in the ignition while your vehicle is unattended as it significantly increases the risk of theft.
Get Motorhome & Campervan Insurance You Can Rely On
Protect your vehicle with trustworthy motorhome and campervan insurance you can truly depend on. At Comfort Insurance, 99.2% of customer claims were paid[2], giving you confidence and peace of mind knowing we’ve got you covered should the worst occur.
Get a quick and easy quote online, or speak directly with a member of our knowledgeable team on 0208 984 0666 for expert motorhome and campervan insurance advice tailored to your needs.
Featured image source: Tomasz Zajda – Adobe Stock
[1] Moving Intelligence – Tracked Motorhome Recovery Rate Figures
[2] As of December 2024 Aviva stated that 99.2% of customer claims were paid
