The scourge of caravan theft is on the rise, and grey nomads and other travellers are being urged to take proper precautions.
In Victoria, data from the state’s Crime Statistics Agency shows that in the 12 months to June 2024, the theft of 174 caravans occurred … up almost 67% since 2022.
RACV General Manager Motoring Jeff Ames said that with many Victorians travelling in coming months and leaving their vans at home, or towing caravans interstate in search of warmer weather, it’s a timely reminder to ensure their caravan is secure before making the trip.
“We’re seeing people either taking their vans on trips interstate or leaving them at home while they travel, and it’s important that owners have the safety and security of these assets front of mind whether at home or on the road,” he said.
Many vans are kept in highly visible spots. PIC: Cizza
“While vans may not seem as appealing an item to steal due to their size, the data is showing that thefts of these usually highly valuable assets are still occurring and, in fact, they are on the rise.”
The RACV recommends having caravan insurance in place to protect your van in case something was to happen to their van.
“It brings peace-of-mind to know that, if your van was stolen it will be replaced,” Mr Ames said. “You could have some cover in place for temporary accommodation and to get you home before your caravan is replaced.”
For any part-time nomads who are going to be away from their houses, while leaving their vans behind, Neighbourhood Watch CEO, Bambi Gordon, said that it was important to keep neighbours informed.
“We strongly suggest that you let your trusted neighbours know when you are heading away from home for a period of time and leaving your van at home, so that they can watch out for any unusual or suspicious behaviour,” she said.
And Ms Gordon warned that heading off in your van could mean your empty house will attract the attention of thieves.
“It’s also important to remember that your van is highly visual,” she said. “If it is normally parked in your drive or front yard, when you do take it on a trip it’s more obvious that you are away from home – so extra security such as sensor lights, locks, and timers will help to protect your home.”
RACV and Neighbourhood Watch have shared the following tips to help keep your caravan secure:
# What steps do you take to try to ensure your caravan isn’t the target of thieves? Comment below.
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We have two locks on the hitch & a wheel clamp.
Our caravan is parked on our property.
Virtually every caravan park we have visited insists you park your van with the tow bar facing the road. This is supposedly a safety requirement should a fire occur in the vicinity.
Your comment regarding facing away from the road is incorrect.
We have lived in our van full time for 13 years. We use a wheel clamp lock and a tow hitch lock even in caravan parks though we free camp mostly, these give us peace of mind. Have travelled this wonderful country all these years ❤️ love it. But..if it does not feel safe we don’t stay. Use common sense. Never leave things out that temp theives.
We have our van facing the house with a wheel lock on it.
Wheelclamls and batterypowered tools don’t mix. Modern tools are powwrfull enough to make mincemeat of a clamp.