It is a sad fact of life that there are people out there who think that it is okay to steal other people’s property. This can happen no matter where you are. City or country, Australia or overseas, home or travelling.
Sometimes, caravanners and travellers can be more at risk as they frequently leave their campsites to explore during the day. So, what can you do to minimise property theft? We have put together some ideas that may help prevent theft when travelling.
1. Install A Witi Anti Theft System
With
It was a no-brainer for us to include the WiTi anti-theft alarm in our
Installing a Witi Anti Theft system also gave us a discount with our
If you’re looking for an anti-theft device specifically designed for caravans with electric brakes, then consider the WiTi Brake Controller which works with WiTi’s anti-theft component.
This system applies the
The system is also receptive enough to detect an attempted break-in and comes with everything you need to set it up, including the trailer unit, alarm horn, two remote controls, wiring loom, and status LED. So feel safe and secure knowing your
We love that the WiTi is the brainchild of two Aussie mates and not only designed and developed in Oz and manufactured in Australia.
WiTi also makes a GPS tracker, which we have also fitted.
Click here for more information and pricing on the anti-theft WiTi System
2. TAKE IT WITH YOU
If you are leaving your van or campsite for the day, it is best to take easily portable items like cameras, phones, laptops and iPads with you. If you have to leave them in your vehicle, try to store them out of sight.
If you do leave items in your van, put them in hard-to-access spots, like under the seats or bed. Thieves will want to get in and out as quickly as possible and will not want to spend time moving seat cushions or lifting beds to look for items to steal.
You may even consider installing a small lightweight safe in a hard-to-access area, like under your seats.
3. KEEP IT LOCKED
We all leave our vans and cars unlocked at some point. We might just be going to the bathroom or the camp kitchen. But our advice is don’t risk it. Lock up even if you think you will only be away for a couple of minutes. It’s really easy to get side-tracked chatting with other campers.
TIP: Keep a second van door key on a lanyard that you can easily pop around your neck when going to the bathroom or camp kitchen.
We also have padlocks, jerry cans, and spare wheels fitted to our battery boxes. Get them all keyed alike for convenience.
Don’t forget to remove the keys from your car and lock them at night. Kev usually checks that he has locked everything in just before we go to bed. Get into the habit of doing this when you are heading to the toilet for the last time, and you won’t forget.
4. UTILISE HIDING SPOTS
Many vehicles have little ‘hidey’ holes that only those who own the make and model of the vehicle know about. These can come in handy for storing small items you don’t want to carry.
For example, our first Prado had a pull-out drawer under the passenger seat. I would never have known that was there until I owned one.
5. WALLETS AND HANDBAGS
Never leave your wallet or handbag in the car, even if you are just dashing into a shop or the toilet. Thieves take only a few moments to take advantage of an unattended vehicle.
Over the last couple of years, I have made a conscious effort to eliminate cards I don’t need. I keep my key cards and driver’s licence in my phone case, and that is all I carry with me. A small card wallet has my Medicare card and a few other cards in it, which I keep in the van unless I know I will need it. I have all my store cards on an app on my phone. I use Stocard.
I could not imagine what a nightmare it would be to get a Queensland driver’s licence replaced if I was in Western Australia, not to mention cancelling credit cards etc.
However, now in Queensland, we have digital licences, which make life easier on the road for renewals and theft.
6. RECORD NUMBERS OF EVERYTHING
Before you leave home, record the numbers of your key cards, driver’s licence, etc. That way, if they are stolen, you have the details on hand. A spreadsheet is a great way to do this. Make sure you add the expiry dates as well.
If you have electrical items with you, record their serial numbers as well. It might also be a good idea to engrave these items with your driver’s licence number or phone number. This will help identify your property as yours if it is stolen and subsequently recovered.
If you must carry expensive items of jewellery, take photos of everything. This can help with identification if theft does occur.
7. SECURE LOOSE ITEMS
Before heading out exploring for the day or heading off to bed, take a few minutes to secure loose items. This can be a bit of a nuisance but may stop an opportunistic thief.
We always stow our slideout BBQ and air fryer and make sure the hatch is locked. Chairs are another easily grabbed item, so we put them in the back of our Patrol.
If you have pushbikes with you, make sure these are chained up as well.
8. HITCH LOCK
Having your
Wheel clamps can also be used to prevent your
9. OTHER IDEAS
Many people install sensor lights on their vans that come on if someone comes under the awning. Alarm systems that alert your smartphone are also becoming more popular.
Making friends with your neighbours is also a great idea. You can always ask them to keep an eye on things whilst you are out, and you can then return the favour.
Many people now travel with their dogs, and most dogs will certainly alert you if someone comes around that shouldn’t be there.
10. INSURANCE
Of course, none of the above suggestions will stop a very determined thief. They will only act as a deterrent. So having good insurance that covers both your vehicle,
Make sure you research your insurance needs carefully. Ensure that your company will cover you if, for example, you are travelling full-time.
I hope some of the tips in this article and as mentioned here for preventing theft when travelling are helpful. Above all, don’t let the possibility of theft deter you from getting out and exploring this amazing country of ours.
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With years of experience travelling Australia in a caravan, I’m passionate about helping others embark on their own unforgettable adventures. From off-grid camping tips to expert advice on planning the ultimate big lap of Australia, I share stories, practical hacks, and inspiration to make your journey stress-free and exciting. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or just starting out, join me as I explore the beauty of Australia, one road at a time!
You can also fit it yourself, there are Utube video’s to watch that will show you how to. My husband fitted it to our last van.
I’ve seen cctv footage of a van being stolen by linking the safety chains with a shackle then looped over a towball, so when I use the ball lock I also tie the chains back to the drawbar with a decent padlock.
Another tip, after you write all you items and serial numbers down, take a photo of it with your mobile phone. It’s easier to access.
Also take a photo of all your medication chemists labels, handy if u go to hospital or if u loose them. The chemist label has the name, dosage strength and times to take on it.
How do you organise to have witi fitted to the van
Thanks for taking the time to help protect our property.
You are welcome Lenny!
Nice tips👍🏾
Thanks Mat!
Very informative and helpful.
Thank you
Thank you. Safe travels 🙂