Lock It Down: A Guide to Caravan Security in Australia
Whether you’re off exploring the Kimberley or parked up at a servo overnight, your caravan is more than just a vehicle — it’s your home, your gear locker, and a big investment. Unfortunately, caravans are also highly targeted by thieves in Australia due to their mobility, resale value, and ease of access when left unattended.
The good news? Caravan security tech has come a long way, and Aussie suppliers are stepping up with robust products to help owners protect what matters. In this article, we break down the best ways to secure your caravan — from physical deterrents to high-tech tracking — with a focus on Australian providers wherever possible.
1. Physical Deterrents: The First Line of Defence
Sometimes the simplest solutions are the most effective. Thieves want a quick getaway — so slowing them down is key.
🔒 Hitch Locks
A hitch lock fits over your tow coupling and prevents the van from being connected to a vehicle. A quality lock can’t be removed without serious effort or noise — a great visual deterrent.
Top Australian pick:
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Kovix KVH-96 Hitch Lock – Sold widely in Australia and made from stainless steel. Often stocked by Caravan RV Camping and Camec.
🔐 Wheel Clamps
These immobilise your van, making it impossible to tow. They’re particularly useful when your caravan is in storage or parked at a free camp.
Top Australian pick:
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SupaClamp Wheel Lock – Aussie-designed for caravans and trailers. Available from My Generator and RV Parts Express.
🛑 Corner Steadies Locks
Thieves have been known to wind up corner steadies to move a van. Locking these prevents the stabilisers from being tampered with.
Insider Tip:
Use a combination of physical deterrents. A hitch lock alone is good. Add a wheel clamp, and you’ve just doubled your security.
2. Door and Window Security: Keeping Them Out
Caravans often come with basic locks that aren’t much of a challenge for a thief. Upgrading your door and window security is a smart early move.
🚪 Upgraded Door Locks
Install deadbolts or heavy-duty caravan-specific locks. Milenco makes highly rated door locks that work with a wide range of Aussie-built vans.
🪟 Window Security Screens
These are especially helpful when leaving a van unattended or for added peace of mind when sleeping. Some Aussie owners use Crimsafe or ClearShield-style screens custom-fitted to caravan windows.
3. Alarm Systems & Motion Detectors
Alarms are great for scaring off intruders before they do damage or steal valuables.
🚨 Caravan Alarm Kits
Some kits include door sensors, motion detectors, and even vibration sensors triggered by movement or attempted break-ins.
Top Australian options:
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Abus Alarmbox 2.0 – A compact, motion-sensing alarm you can mount anywhere
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TechnoRV Motion Alarm Kit – Simple, wireless, and DIY-friendly
Some models link to your smartphone so you’ll receive alerts in real time, even when you’re away from the caravan.
4. GPS Tracking: Find It if It’s Taken
If your caravan is stolen, GPS tracking can be the difference between recovery and a total loss.
🛰️ Real-Time Tracking Systems
These are small devices hidden inside the van that provide real-time location updates. Some even offer geofencing, which alerts you if your van moves outside a set area.
Aussie Providers:
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TrackMyRide – Australian-made GPS tracking with live tracking and movement alerts
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Fleet Complete – Partnered with Telstra, ideal for remote coverage
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Gator GPS Trackers – Available at major Aussie retailers like Repco
Insider Tip:
Discreet placement is key. The more hidden the tracker, the harder it is for thieves to disable.
Don't Forget To Protect Your Pets
5. Cameras & Remote Monitoring
Wireless cameras with 4G or WiFi access allow you to monitor your caravan from anywhere. Some systems also record footage and send alerts.
🎥 Recommended Solutions:
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Reolink Atlas – Battery-powered, solar-rechargeable, and accessible via smartphone
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Uniden App Cam Solo – Available locally with good support and accessories
Mount these inside or outside your van and pair with motion sensors for full perimeter coverage.
Check out the Reolink Atlas. Shown above. Can be used for caravans.
6. Safe Storage for Valuables
Even with great security, it’s wise to store valuables in a lockbox or hidden safe.
Popular Options:
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Travel Vault – Compact, heavy-duty safes available at BCF and Whitworths
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Camco RV Safe – Designed for limited-space installation in RVs and caravans
Keep passports, spare keys, and electronics inside when not in use.
7. Lighting & Visibility: Make It Less Inviting
Thieves hate being seen. A well-lit caravan is less likely to be targeted.
💡 Smart Lighting Ideas:
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Install motion-activated flood lights on the exterior of your caravan
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Use solar-powered lights for remote areas
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Mount LED strips inside for better visibility at night
Look for gear from Narva or Hardkorr Lighting — both Aussie companies with durable outdoor lighting options.
8. Insurance: Your Backup Plan
Even with all the above precautions, theft can still happen. Comprehensive caravan insurance with theft cover is essential.
🛡️ Recommended Australian Insurers:
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CIL Insurance – Caravan-specific insurance
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NRMA, RACQ, and AAMI – Offer optional theft and contents cover
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Ken Tame Insurance – Popular with grey nomads
Be sure to check policy inclusions around GPS trackers or anti-theft devices — some providers offer discounts.
Conclusion: Layered Security Is the Best Security
Caravan security isn’t about finding one magic solution. It’s about layering defences — physical deterrents, tech monitoring, alarms, and good habits — to make your van too hard, too noisy, or too risky to steal.
Here’s a quick security checklist to help you get started:
✅ Hitch lock
✅ Wheel clamp
✅ Upgraded door/window locks
✅ GPS tracker
✅ Motion alarm
✅ 4G camera
✅ Safe or lockbox
✅ Motion lighting
✅ Insurance coverage
Australia is home to some top-quality caravan security gear and suppliers — use them. Whether you’re free camping in the bush or parked up in a suburb, peace of mind comes standard when you take your security seriously.