Van Life Security: Tips to Safeguard Your Home on Wheels

Welcome, fellow adventurers, to the wonderful world of van life! Hitting the open road, embracing nature's beauty, and creating memories of a lifetime are just a few perks of this nomadic lifestyle.

However, amidst all the excitement, it's crucial to prioritise the safety and security of your beloved van-home. In this blog post, we'll explore eight essential tips to prevent theft or break-ins while featuring a game-changing device that is guaranteed to stop your van getting stolen.

1. Choose Safe Parking Spots

When parking your van for the night or during your travels, opt for well-lit and populated areas OR go for the complete opposite, because where there are no people, there is no crime. I personally feel safer in the wilderness but some van lifers i've spoken to much prefer more populated areas.

2. Install Window Coverings

Keep your valuable possessions out of sight by installing window coverings. Simple curtains or shades provide privacy and prevent prying eyes from peeking inside. Remember, an out-of-sight van is less likely to attract unwanted attention. We don't have any windows in our van (apart from in the cab of course) because we took van security to the next level. But its so important to keep your interior a secret, keep the mystery alive that there might be someone inside.

3. Lock It Up

This may seem like common sense, but always lock your van! It's surprising how many people forget to do this. Double-check that all doors, windows, and storage compartments are securely locked before leaving your van unattended. If there are two of you, both check all of the doors to make sure.

4. Don't Flaunt Your Valuables

Avoid drawing attention to valuable items inside your van. Refrain from leaving expensive electronics, cameras, or other high-value possessions visible through the windows. If you must store valuables, use inconspicuous containers or hide them in less obvious places. This is the main reason i don't work on my laptop outside in populated areas. I don't want anyone to know that there is a laptop or cameras inside the van.

5. Invest in an Alarm System

A reliable alarm system is a game-changer for van life security. Consider installing one that includes motion sensors, door sensors, and a loud siren. It will not only scare off potential thieves but also alert nearby campers or authorities of any unauthorised access. If you have the budget for one of these then get it. If you don't have budget for this, make sure to take some of these other steps.

6. Secure Your Steering Wheel

A big giant bright yellow disk lock can be the difference between a thief choosing your van, or someone else's to steal. (sorry people who don't have a steering wheel lock).

7. A GPS Tracking Device

GPS tracking devices are a fantastic addition to your van security kit. Attach one discreetly to your vehicle, and in the unfortunate event of theft, you'll have a higher chance of recovering it quickly. Most of them require a sim card or to connect to a wifi in your van. A simple fix is an Apple Air Tag.

8. Get hold of a StopMyEngine: Your Van's Guardian Angel

We were lucky enough to meet MJ from StopMyEngine at a van life festival and it completely opened our eyes to a new way of protecting our home on wheels. it’s a device that will give you peace of mind during your van life adventures. This innovative system connects your vehicle to your phone via Bluetooth, ensuring that only you can drive your van. it basically leverages Bluetooth technology to establish a connection between a user's vehicle and their smartphone.

StopMyEngine features a straightforward 5-wire system that can be effortlessly installed in vehicles of any make and model. Once the optimal engine power and earth points have been determined, the installation process should be relatively straightforward and uncomplicated

In the event that an unauthorised individual attempts to start the engine of a vehicle equipped with StopMyEngine, the system is designed to automatically detect the absence of your paired Bluetooth device and activate the alarm mode. This feature is seamlessly integrated into the product, requiring no intervention from the user beyond the initial installation and activation of the StopMyEngine system. If you’re interested, click here.

9. Your Roof Vent is a WEAK Point!

This one is courtesy of MJ from StopMyEngine. So you have him to thank for this handy tip: Your camper van skylight/ sunroof is usually fitted from the outside, so the screws go into the van from the outside making it the most easiest point of entry for any smart thief as they can climb on top of your van and unscrew the sunroof/skylight fixture and squeeze in that way, if your converting your van make sure any roof fittings are screwed from the inside out. Might seem obvious but so many van conversion companies fail to do it. So simple but often overlooked during the conversion process as it’s much easier and quicker to fit form outside in as apposed to inside out. 

10. Trust Your Gut Feeling

If something feels dodgy, it probably is.

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Van life should be about relaxation and adventure, not constantly worrying about your van's security! I hope this little blog post about van life security has helped you gain some tips and info about how you can keep your van (and all of your belongings inside) safe.

Thank you so much for reading!

Safe travels,

Beth

@sheisthelostgirl