Caravan security, your driving licence and tow car all need to be appropriate.

Before buying your touring caravan there's a few things that need to be considered.

SECURITY
There are hundreds of security devices on the market and some are better than others. None will make your caravan totally thief-proof, but they will make most thieves think twice about stealing your tourer. Buy the best security you can afford and make sure the thief knows the device is fitted. Stickers are usually supplied with security items – so use them!

Hitch locks provide a reasonable degree of protection from the opportunist thief. Get one that is manufactured from heavy steel to cover the tow socket fixing bolts and has a good lock. Some hitch locks can lock the caravan to the car but make sure it is unlocked when you are actually towing - use them only on site or if you leave the caravan unattended.

Wheel Clamps Buy a good clamp and check that it correctly fits your caravan’s wheel – if they don’t fit correctly, a thief can remove the wheel and the clamp with it.

Wheel Stands can be a deterrent; if you make sure they are locked in place. Check your handbook as some chassis manufacturers recommend axle stands for winter storage. Make sure you check with your insurers that they are happy to let you keep your caravan on wheel stands, as some insurance policies call for the van to be fitted with a wheel clamp at all times.

Security Posts are particularly useful for those who keep their caravan on the drive at home. They are cemented into the drive and physically block movement of the caravan. Some can be fitted with a towbar on top of the post so that the caravan can be fixed with a hitch lock. Others are detachable or can fold down so that the caravan can be manoeuvred into position.

Legal bits

You may not realise it, but nowadays you can't just hitch up and start towing a caravan; the ability to tow a caravan will depend on the driving licence you hold. See the Government website for detailed information.

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Matching Service
Towsafe offers a service to make sure a towing car is compatible with the caravan to be towed; their website is at www.towsafe.co.uk

The website also gives more in-depth information regarding what you need to know.

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Caravan Crime
Thieves will steal caravans from anywhere including your driveway, lay-bys, motorway service stations and picnic sites.

Even if you're just stopping for a cup of tea or to stretch your legs, make sure your caravan is secured.

When you arrive at a caravan site or park, get acquainted with the people nearby so you can keep an eye on each other's caravan whilst away.