Motorhome security isn’t the most glamorous part of touring, but it’s one of the most important. We spend ages choosing the layout, the upholstery, even the size of the fridge – but how much time do we spend thinking about keeping our pride and joy safe? After all, your motorhome is not only your holiday home, it’s also a tempting target.

Whether it’s opportunistic thieves looking for valuables or organised gangs after the motorhome itself, a few sensible steps can make life much harder for them and far more reassuring for you.

1. Start with the basics

It sounds obvious, but you’d be amazed at how many thefts happen because someone has left a window ajar or the door unlocked “just for a moment”. Treat your motorhome as you would your home – lock up every time you leave it, even if you’re just nipping to the site shop for milk. And don’t forget that awning doors, garage or locker doors and cab windows can be weak points.

A good habit is to do a quick ‘lock-up walkaround’ before you leave the ’van. Just as pilots check their planes before take-off, you should check the doors, windows and lockers. It takes 30 seconds and could save you from an awful experience later.

2. Extra layers of protection

Most motorhomes come with some sort of built-in immobiliser, but adding extra visible and physical deterrents makes thieves think twice. Think steering wheel locks, pedal locks or the best motorhome wheel clamp. Yes, they’re a bit old-fashioned, but that’s precisely why they work – they’re a visible deterrent for any would-be thief.

Door and window security can also be beefed up with aftermarket locks and deadbolts. Determined thieves with the right tools will get into almost anything, but the aim is to slow them down so much that they either give up or never even try in the first place.

3. Alarms and trackers

Modern alarm systems can protect both the cab and the habitation area, sometimes with clever sensors that allow you to move around inside without triggering them at night. Add a loud siren and flashing lights, and most thieves will scarper pretty quickly.

Tracking devices are another level again. If the worst happens and your motorhome is stolen, a tracker gives you a fighting chance of getting it back. Many systems will even alert you if the ’van is moved without the ignition on, which can be handy for peace of mind when it’s in storage.

Most insurers will offer a discount if you fit a Thatcham-approved tracker, which helps offset the cost.

4. Storage solutions

For many, the motorhome spends more time in storage than on the road, especially if you’re winterising a motorhome.

When you’re storing a motorhome, choose a secure storage facility with locked gates, CCTV and even on-site staff is worth the monthly fee. If you store the motorhome at home, consider a driveway post or bollard, security lighting and perhaps even CCTV. Thieves don’t like attention, so anything that makes your vehicle a less attractive target will help.

5. Campsite common sense

Motorhomers are a friendly bunch, but don’t let the sense of community lull you into a false sense of security. Campsites are generally safe, but opportunists are easily tempted.

Lock bikes, barbecues and outdoor furniture (such as the best motorhome chairs) when you head off for the day.

A lightweight cable lock is better than nothing, but a decent D-lock or chain makes life much more challenging for thieves. And be cautious about what you share online; posting your exact location on social media in real time can be an open invitation. “We’re away for two weeks in France, and here we are with our new e-bikes on pitch 14” is precisely the sort of information that thieves love.

6. Don’t forget the inside

It’s not just the motorhome itself that’s at risk. Laptops, phones, cameras and even e-bikes are easy pickings if left on show.

Think about how you’d behave in a city centre car park – you wouldn’t leave your iPad on the dashboard or your handbag on the seat. Treat your motorhome the same way. A small safe, bolted securely inside a locker, can be a worthwhile investment for passports, cash and gadgets. And while it may not feel very ‘holiday’, drawing the blinds or using cab curtains when you’re out prevents prying eyes from spotting something worth stealing.

7. Insurance matters

It’s worth checking the small print of your insurance policy, too. Some policies insist on specific security devices being fitted or used, particularly for higher-value luxury motorhomes. Don’t give your insurer a reason to wriggle out of a claim – make sure you comply.

8. Peace of mind on tour

The reality is that most of us will never experience a theft from our motorhome, but that’s often because we take sensible precautions. Security is all about peace of mind. When you’re sitting in a pub with a fantastic view with a glass of something chilled, the last thing you want is to be worrying about what’s going on in the car park.

For me, it’s about layers: basic common sense, visible deterrents, decent locks, alarms, trackers and storage. Each layer adds a little more protection and, together, they make your motorhome a far less tempting prospect.

So, while I’d rather be thinking about where to head for our next adventure, I know that taking security seriously means we’ll get there — with ’van and belongings intact.

Don’t miss what I had to say about motorhoming with a dog either, as I share my tips to make sure you and your canine companion have as enjoyable an experience as possible.

You can find out more about Motorhome Matt and listen to his podcast at motorhomematt.co.uk.

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