Most modern caravans have alarms and some even have trackers fitted as standard.
However, visible high-quality physical security, like a caravan hitch lock or wheel clamp should be high up your list.
Thieves are having a harder time stealing cars than ever before because of sophisticated electronic immobilisers and alarms. But these low-lives can still steal trailers and caravans.
One of the most common locations for caravan theft is at motorway service stations.
It is vital to immobilise your caravan with a hitchlock when leaving it alone.
When the vehicle and trailer are connected, the best hitchlocks can remain in place, which is crucial for caravanners who might stop at motorway services. However, because the hitchlock will impede the trailer’s movement around corners, you should never drive with one in place for safety reasons.
Make sure you also get the appropriate equipment. Most caravans have Al-Ko or Albe hitches, and many locks are made to fit them, however there are alternative options.
Insurance approval and discounts
Your insurance company might produce a list of hitchlocks that qualify you for a discount on your premium.
In the absence of advice from your insurers, we advise that you purchase a Hitch Lock that satisfies one of the below accreditations. If you’re unsure, examine the packaging, consult with staff, and/or visit the manufacturer’s website.
- Sold Secure Approved & Tested to Bronze, Silver, Gold & Diamond Standards.
- Thatcham Approved and tested to Category 3.
- SCM Dutch Institute for Certification of Vehicle Security Systems.
- VbV Dutch Security System Classification.
- TUV German Institute for Certification of products of all kinds including Caravans.
What to look for in a quality caravan hitchlock
There are some models of caravan hitch lock that can be fitted and left in place, even when the caravan is connected to your vehicle.
This is quite helpful when you are stopped at a petrol station, since it enables you to rapidly attach the Hitchlock without removing the caravan from the tow vehicle, thereby reducing the likelihood that the caravan will be stolen by virtue of the fact you’ll actually be bothered to use it!
Make sure you also get the appropriate equipment. Most caravans have Al-Ko or Albe hitches, and many locks are made to fit them, however there are alternative options. All of the hitchlocks below meet these requirements.
Anatomy of a good caravan hitchlock
- Sold Secure approved (or similarly rated)
- Ease of use
- Brightly coloured and obvious
- Weather-resistant, rustproof, and waterproof
- Using heavy steel structure with the fewest welded joints possible
- Protected and covered hitch head bolts
- Integrated high-security lock
- Hitchlock able to be fitted while caravan is hitched and unhitched
Whether your caravan is at home, in storage, or on a pitch, it is crucial to keep it secure from burglars.
In most circumstances, it’s also crucial to comply with insurance terms and conditions, therefore it’s vital to properly address caravan security. This not only gives piece of mind. Therefore, it’s crucial to understand whether your insurer suggests or even requires the usage of a certain product before you buy a hitch lock for your caravan.
You don’t just need security when you’re leaving your caravan in storage. You can use it while you’re caravanning too. Additional security comprises leg locks and caravan wheel clamps, as well as other security gear like hitch locks.