Security Against Theft of Your Outdoor Items

Whether you’re away in your touring caravan, your motorhome, or even in a tent, there are a number of items that can only really be stored outside.

Awnings, tables and chairs, barbecues, and gas cylinders all take up a lot of space and can even be unsafe to keep inside; having to store these items outside can make them more difficult to protect against theft.

With the rise in theft of all things metal, keeping these larger, outdoor items safe from being stolen is high on the agenda when it comes to touring caravan security. In fact, police forces have issued warnings to caravan owners about battery theft and to advise on adequate storage of gas cylinders as crime involving these is on the increase.

Protecting against theft of outdoor items

So what are the recommendations when it comes to storing bulkier items when you’re away in your caravan?

Research shows that gas cylinders are of particular interest these days, and many police forces are warning campers to be extra vigilant. Of course, your gas cylinders should ideally be secured into the gas locker within your touring caravan for security, and for fire safety many camping and caravan sites require that any gas cylinders with a capacity of over 15kg are stored there anyway.

Batteries are also a target for scrap metal thieves, and our touring caravan insurance experts recommend marking items like this with an antitheft pen, ensuring that if your battery is stolen, it is easily identifiable and therefore less saleable for the thief.

When it comes to your barbecue, it’s not a good idea to bring it inside. Firstly for safety reasons but also because you don’t want coal dust all over your interior! Instead, chain it securely to your caravan or a fixing clamp to help to deter the opportunist thief.

Also bear in mind that caravanning is a very community-driven activity – it’s a good idea to get to know your neighbours, who can keep an eye out for you while you’re away from your caravan.

Touring caravan security – theft of outdoor items when your caravan is in storage

Though security may be more at the forefront of your mind when you’re away, you should also think about security when you’re storing your caravan away from home. It is well worth paying a bit extra for better storage and increased security to ensure your caravan is safe, but it is still a good idea to remove your gas cylinders, battery, barbecue, and outdoor equipment and to store these in a safer environment at home.

Your touring caravan insurance and security against theft of outdoor items

While you can take many security measures against theft of your outdoor items, in the worst case scenario your equipment may be stolen. Ensuring you have good quality touring caravan insurance in place offers you the peace of mind of knowing that if your items are stolen, you shouldn’t be out of pocket.

Touring caravan insurance cover varies, and it’s worth making sure that the sums insured for your contents are adequate. It’s also a good idea to check what equipment is covered and where. Most touring caravan insurance policies cover items that are in or attached to your caravan allowing you to rest easy, and enjoy your touring caravan holiday.