January 23rd, 2024

‘This won’t happen to me’ is what you may think when you enjoy the freedom that comes with travelling in a campervan or caravan. Yet it is precisely the smart camper who realises the need for caravan and motorhome security and does not just rely on a sturdy lock. An alarm for the motorhome or caravan is a good addition to reduce the chances of burglary and increase the chances of being caught. Active security for campervan and caravan also adds to your peace of mind. This article offers 10 essential tips to strengthen your camper alarm system and ensure that you go on your camping holiday with confidence and security.

Topics

1. The relationship between a sense of security and a feeling of happiness

Extensive research has been done on the relationship between a sense of security and the feeling of happiness. The feeling of security can also contribute to your overall sense of adventure and freedom, keeping you more active and undertaking more during your holiday.

To boost your sense of security, there are plenty of options. You often hear that people lock the door, but a burglar can just as easily enter through the window. A motorhome or caravan is made of light material and despite a solid lock, a burglar can force the door. However, if a burglar has to choose between a motorhome with or without a lock, he will probably choose the easy option: without a lock.

Camping in nature is a trend that is gaining popularity. Campsites are getting busier and you may find it much nicer not to be constantly on someone’s doorstep. In Germany, for example, you are not allowed to wildcamp, but new apps like WinzerAtlas allow you to book a pitch in nature directly from a farmer at the foot of the Alps. Therefore, the temptation to camp in nature is increasing. It is beautiful and gives the ultimate sense of freedom and adventure, but then you have to be self-sufficient – not only with enough gas and water supply, but also with your own security.

2. Practical security tips at a glance

1. Security systems: Install professional systems such as the E-Trailer E-Switch, which alert you in case of an attempted break-in.
2. GPS Tracking: Make sure your vehicle is equipped with a GPS tracker, such as E-Track&Trace from E-Trailer. This helps to quickly locate your motorhome or caravan in case of theft.
3. Motion sensors: Install motion sensors such as the E-Movement, which react to unwanted movements around your camping equipment and send a notification to your smartphone.
4. Mechanical Safeguards: Use wheel clamps, steering locks and other physical barriers that make it harder for thieves to quickly drive away with your vehicle. There are also lockers that can be mounted in motorhomes.
5. Reduce visibility: Keep valuables out of sight and use blackout curtains or window film to prevent passers-by from easily looking in and seeing what is there to take.
6. Social Control: Park your motorhome or caravan so that other campers have a view of your vehicle. Social control is a natural deterrent to thieves.
7. Use of Time Switches: Install time switches that turn indoor and outdoor lights on and off at random times to give the impression that someone is present.
8. Security stickers: Place stickers indicating that your vehicle is secured with an alarm and GPS tracking. The visual deterrent can discourage potential burglars.
9. Inventory list: Keep a detailed list of all the valuables you take with you. In case of theft, this can help the police track down your belongings and can be useful for insurance claims.
10. Good Lighting: Make sure you have adequate lighting around your motorhome or caravan. Well-lit areas are less attractive to thieves as they are more likely to be seen.

3. About security systems

For security systems, you can think of a motion sensor that works with infrared technology. These sensors detect movement through temperature differences and can distinguish between people, pets and, for example, a flapping tent. E-Trailer has developed the E-Movement, a motion sensor specifically for motorhomes and caravans, which sends an alarm notification to your smartphone if someone is in your motorhome / caravan without permission. In addition to a motion sensor, you can also consider a burglar alarm. E-Trailer’s E-Switch is one such alarm specifically designed for motorhomes and caravans. It works with a sensor (magnetic contact) that gives an alarm signal if their connection is broken, ideal for securing doors, windows and roof hatches.

A GPS tracker cannot be missing from your security arsenal. A burglar will break in before driving away with your camping vehicle. If a burglar does manage to steal your vehicle, you are more likely to recover your prized possessions if a GPS tracker is installed in your camping vehicle. Why a GPS tracker should provide a constant signal over a wide coverage area can be read in our dedicated blog on GPS trackers. In the Netherlands, for example, more than 600 RVs and caravans were stolen in 2021, while in Belgium nearly 200 RVs were stolen. Germany has the highest number of stolen motorhomes and caravans, with more than 2,600 cases in 2020. Read this blog with more statistics on how safe your camper or caravan is in Europe.

E-Track&Trace from E-Trailer is a GPS tracker developed specifically for motorhomes and caravans. This tracker is an essential part of the Starter Package Plus, where you can also integrate the E-Movement motion sensor and the E-Switch burglar alarm. By activating an Internet subscription via the E-Trailer app, you can make your camping vacation safer and more comfortable for a modest amount of money. You enjoy your vacation destination carefree, while the E-Trailer security system watches over your valuables.

With the E-Trailer system you can go beyond standard security; E-Gaslevel for the amount of gas in your gas tank and E-Waterlevel for the amount of water in your water tank. For your safety, you can connect, for example, the tire pressure sensor E-Pressure, which helps prevent a blowout and thus increases safety while driving. And this really gives a nice feeling to know that E-Trailer is constantly working for you to promote safety and comfort during your trip.

In conclusion, moving to full camper security is a smart move that goes beyond having a good lock on your camper.
It involves an integrated approach that transforms your camping experience, allowing you to enjoy the journey worry-free.With these 10 security tips for your RV and caravan, we aim to not only protect your vehicles, but also ensure the joy and freedom that camping brings. At E-Trailer, we believe in providing complete security solutions that go beyond the basics so you can say, “This won’t happen to me.” Take the right precautions, and let the road lead you to new adventures with the assurance that E-Trailer is watching over your home away from home.

Sources:
Journal of Happiness Studies
Psychology of Well-Being
World Happiness Report

More information about E-Movement and E-Switch


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