Hiring a motorhome gives you the freedom to explore new places, whether you are spending a weekend in North Yorkshire or travelling around Scotland. However, being away from familiar surroundings also means thinking about how to keep the vehicle and your belongings secure.
Motorhome security does not have to involve expensive devices or complicated precautions. Most hirers can reduce the risk of theft by developing a few sensible habits, particularly when parking at attractions, leaving the vehicle unattended or staying overnight.
These eight motorhome security tips focus on practical steps you can take during your holiday without making changes to the hired vehicle.
1. Lock All Doors and Windows When Leaving the Motorhome
One of the simplest motorhome security precautions is also one of the most important. Before leaving the vehicle, check that every external access point is properly secured.
Motorhomes often have more doors, windows and storage compartments than ordinary cars. In addition to the cab doors, there may be a separate habitation door, external garage compartments and rooflights.
It is easy to overlook one of these when leaving in a hurry, particularly if several people have been moving in and out of the motorhome.
Before walking away:
- Lock the cab and habitation doors.
- Close and secure windows and rooflights.
- Check external storage compartments and lockers.
- Make sure valuables cannot be seen through the windows.
- Confirm the vehicle is locked using its normal locking controls.
Do not assume the central locking system secures every external compartment. Some motorhomes have separate locks for habitation doors, garages or storage lockers.
When collecting the vehicle, familiarise yourself with the locking arrangements so that securing it becomes part of your normal routine.
2. Keep Motorhome Keys Secure
Motorhome keys deserve particular attention because losing them can disrupt your holiday and potentially compromise the vehicle’s security.
Keep the keys somewhere secure when travelling or exploring, rather than leaving them in a bag that could easily be misplaced.
Avoid leaving keys on outdoor tables, near campsite seating areas or inside an unlocked motorhome while you are outside.
It is also worth agreeing who will be responsible for carrying the keys when several people are travelling together.
Do not hide a spare key underneath the vehicle, inside an external locker or around the campsite pitch. These are obvious places to check if someone is attempting to gain access.
If the hire company provides a spare key, follow its instructions about where it should be kept. If a key is lost or stolen, contact the company promptly rather than arranging an unauthorised replacement.
3. Choose Parking Locations Carefully
Where you leave a motorhome can influence how vulnerable it is to theft or damage.
When visiting towns, attractions or other destinations, look for established parking areas with suitable access and clear visibility.
Well-used car parks can be preferable to isolated locations, particularly when you expect to leave the motorhome unattended for several hours.
However, a busy location does not guarantee security. Remain aware of your surroundings and avoid displaying expensive equipment through the windows.
Parking suitability is also important. A location may appear convenient but have height barriers, narrow entrances or spaces that are unsuitable for larger vehicles.
Checking whether motorhomes fit standard parking bays can help you avoid stopping somewhere unsuitable and having to leave the vehicle awkwardly positioned.
Where possible, park in a way that allows you to leave safely without difficult manoeuvres or unnecessary reversing.
Never ignore parking restrictions simply because you expect to be away for only a short time.
4. Keep Valuables Out of Sight
Leaving expensive belongings visible inside a motorhome can attract unwanted attention, particularly when the vehicle is parked at a tourist attraction or public car park.
Phones, tablets, laptops, cameras and handbags should not be left where they can easily be seen through the windows.
Before leaving the motorhome, put smaller valuables away in suitable storage compartments and close any fitted curtains or blinds where appropriate.
However, hiding valuables does not guarantee their safety. If you are carrying particularly expensive items, consider whether they need to remain in the vehicle at all.
Passports, important documents and spare keys should be kept securely rather than left loose on tables or seats.
A hired motorhome may have lockable cupboards or other suitable storage areas, but these should not automatically be treated as secure safes.
For longer days away from the vehicle, taking valuable personal belongings with you may be the safer option.
5. Secure Bicycles and Outdoor Equipment
Motorhome holidays often involve bicycles, outdoor furniture, walking equipment and other belongings that may be stored outside the vehicle.
These items can be tempting targets when left unattended, particularly at busy campsites or overnight stops.
If you are travelling with bicycles, use a suitable lock to secure them when parked. A quality lock fitted through the frame and an appropriate fixed point offers better protection than relying on a lightweight cable alone.
Check that any bike rack is designed for the bicycles being carried and that the equipment is properly secured before travelling.
When using external motorhome storage compartments, close and lock them after removing or replacing equipment.
Outdoor chairs, tables and accessories should be brought inside or secured appropriately when they are no longer being used, particularly overnight.
Do not attach additional locks, brackets or security equipment to a hired motorhome without permission, as unsuitable accessories can damage the vehicle.
6. Follow Sensible Campsite Security Habits
Campsites are generally sociable environments, but shared facilities and the movement of other guests mean you should still take sensible precautions.
Even when staying on a managed site, lock the motorhome whenever everyone leaves the pitch.
Avoid leaving keys, wallets or electronic devices unattended on outdoor furniture while visiting the washrooms, shop or reception.
It is also important to keep your pitch organised. Equipment left scattered around the outside of the vehicle can be easier to overlook or remove.
When choosing a campsite, consider whether it has controlled access, staffed reception facilities or other security arrangements, particularly if you are travelling with valuable equipment.
However, security measures vary between sites. A barrier at the entrance does not mean that every pitch is monitored.
If you notice suspicious activity or someone interfering with another guest’s belongings, report it to campsite staff rather than confronting the person yourself.
7. Understand the Motorhome’s Existing Security Features
Modern motorhomes may have several built-in security features, although the equipment fitted varies between vehicles.
Depending on the model, these may include an immobiliser, alarm, additional door locks or a vehicle tracking system.
Hirers should understand the equipment already installed rather than attempting to add permanent security devices themselves.
During the vehicle handover, confirm how to lock the cab and habitation areas, whether the alarm needs activating separately and what to do if it sounds unexpectedly.
It is also worth checking whether there are any special instructions for locking the motorhome while someone remains inside.
Some alarm systems have interior movement sensors that may need operating differently when occupants are sleeping.
Any fitted security equipment should be used according to the hire company’s instructions. Avoid changing alarm settings, disconnecting devices or modifying the vehicle.
When comparing motorhomes for hire, the vehicle’s specification and existing security arrangements are worth considering alongside its layout and facilities.
8. Know What to Do If Something Is Stolen
Even with sensible precautions, theft can still happen. Knowing how to respond can prevent an already difficult situation from becoming more complicated.
If you return to the motorhome and discover signs of forced entry, assess the situation before approaching. If you believe someone may still be inside, move to a safe location and contact the police.
Report theft or criminal damage to the police and obtain a crime reference number where one is issued.
Contact the hire company as soon as possible, particularly if the vehicle has been damaged, keys are missing or any fitted security equipment has been affected.
Do not arrange repairs to damaged locks, windows or doors without checking the hire company’s requirements.
Take photographs of any damage when it is safe to do so and keep a record of missing belongings.
Insurance arrangements can differ depending on whether the loss involves the hired motorhome, its equipment or your personal possessions.
The applicable insurance excess and any exclusions may affect the financial responsibility for damage to the vehicle.
Personal belongings may need to be claimed through a separate travel or possessions insurance policy, depending on the cover held.
Keeping Your Hired Motorhome Secure Throughout the Holiday
Effective motorhome security is largely about consistency. Locking the vehicle, keeping keys safe, choosing suitable parking locations and securing valuables can all reduce unnecessary risks.
These precautions are particularly important when your motorhome is both your transport and your accommodation, as a theft or damaged lock could affect the remainder of your holiday.
You do not need to purchase specialist devices or make modifications to a hired motorhome to take security seriously.
Understanding the vehicle’s existing security features and developing a straightforward routine will help you protect your belongings while concentrating on enjoying your time away.
FAQs About Motorhome Security
What should you do if you accidentally lock your keys inside a hired motorhome?
Contact the hire company using the emergency details provided with your booking. They can advise on the correct access procedure or arrange appropriate assistance. Avoid forcing a door or window, as this could cause damage and result in additional charges.
Are hired motorhomes fitted with GPS trackers?
Some hire motorhomes have GPS tracking systems, but this depends on the company and vehicle. A tracker may assist with locating a stolen motorhome, although recovery is not guaranteed. Ask the hire company whether tracking equipment is installed and what procedures apply if the vehicle is stolen.
Can you leave motorhome windows open overnight?
Windows and rooflights should only be left open in positions permitted by the manufacturer and appropriate for the location. Some have secure ventilation settings, but these do not necessarily provide protection against unauthorised entry. Keep essential ventilation clear and check the vehicle’s instructions before settling down for the night.
What happens if someone steals the number plates from a hired motorhome?
Report the theft to the police and notify the hire company promptly. Stolen plates may be used on another vehicle, so it is important that the incident is recorded. Do not arrange replacement plates or continue your journey without first confirming the appropriate procedure with the hire company.
Should you photograph valuable belongings before a motorhome holiday?
Photographs and a record of valuable possessions can be useful if you need to report theft or make an insurance claim. Keep receipts or proof of ownership where available, and store copies securely online rather than relying entirely on a device travelling with you. Check your insurance policy for any evidence requirements.
Should I tell the hire company if the motorhome is broken into?
Yes, straight away, as well as reporting it to the police. The hire company will explain the next steps and any effect on your hire.