20 brilliant ideas to secure your van 🔐

In 2023, vehicle thefts exploded in France. 🚨 According to the Argos barometer, 70,649 cars and light commercial vehicles were reported stolen, an increase of +11.1% compared to 2022, and +18.9% compared to 2021. 😱

And it doesn’t stop there: if we add two-wheelers, this number rises even more! For example, in 2020, about 121,500 vehicles were stolen (cars + motorcycles). 🏍️🚗

So, let’s be honest, protecting your van is just essential. 💪 Whether it’s security cameras, alarms, or robust locking systems, there are plenty of solutions to sleep peacefully. 😌

To help you choose components, we have gathered 20 brilliant ideas to secure your van! 🚐🔒 Ready to discover how to avoid unpleasant surprises? Follow us, we explain everything!

First of all, a few words about Vanlife Store

At Vanlife Store, we are above all passionate about vanlife and adventure! After years on the road living our dream, we love sharing our tips, ideas, and good deals to help you transform your van into a true home on wheels.

We are also layout experts which allows us to offer you advice and relevant products for your Campervan projects or repairs, always at the best prices.

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The essentials of securing a converted vehicle

The security of our vans is essential! 🚐 Incidents happen more often than you think, so it’s better to be extra vigilant. In this guide, we present many solutions to secure your van: cameras, safes, locks, alarms… everything to protect your home on wheels!

So here are 20 great ideas to secure our vans! 🔒✨

The basics of security for vans

Let’s start with the basics! 😊

Hot-wiring

The first point to address is hot-wiring. This method involves bypassing a vehicle’s ignition to start it without a key. Good news: since 1988, all new vehicles are equipped with an immobilizer. This system prevents hot-wiring when the key is removed. 🙌

 

So, not too much to worry about hot-wiring. But what we really need to be concerned about is... theft! 😬

Here are some basic security systems for our vans:

• Don’t leave valuables in sightIt’s common sense, but it matters! No wallet, phone, cash, or laptop visible in the cabin. 🛑
• Park in well-lit areasLight deters thieves. According to a study, public lighting reduces crime by 14%. 🌟
• Cities are riskierThe risk of burglary is much higher in cities than in the countryside. So, head to nature! 🌳
• Don’t leave anything lying around at the campsiteCampsites aren’t spared. This summer, we had two chairs and a training board stolen! Let’s pack everything before leaving.
• Store security info on your phoneKeep insurance papers, registration, and other important documents on your phone to handle issues quickly. 📱

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The best locks for vans

Let’s move on to locks! There are many, but here are the most effective ones. 🔐

Steering wheel lock

The steering wheel lock is a classic! It has always existed (even before hot-wiring was common!). 🚗

Clutch pedal lock

The Clutch Claw locks the clutch, preventing the vehicle from being driven. Handy, isn’t it?

Wheel clamp

Do you know wheel clamps for illegal parking? Here, it’s on purpose! A wheel clamp is a great tool to secure our Campervans.

Deadbolt lock (Deadlock)

The deadlock, or deadlock, is an essential solution to secure your van’s doors. This mechanical lock only opens with a key, offering robust and ultra-reliable protection against intrusions. 💪

Why choose a deadlock?

Unlike automatic systems, the deadlock is simple, durable, and extremely resistant to forced entry attempts. Its mechanical design makes it an almost "armored" solution, perfect for those seeking uncompromising security.

Two options depending on your needs:

• Internal deadlock (mortise): Installed directly inside the door, these locks blend into the van’s structure and are generally installed by professionals. They offer a high level of security while remaining discreet.
• External deadlock: Ideal for Campervans in DIY mode, these locks are mounted on the outside of the doors, and their installation is within the reach of DIYers. Models like the Master van lock or the Thule van lock are particularly appreciated for their reliability and ease of use.

The advantage of deadlocks

With a deadlock, you add a layer of security that deters even the most determined burglars. Whether you sleep in the city or leave your van in a remote spot, it is a real asset to protect your home on wheels!

Automatic closing lock (Slam Lock)

The slam lock is a locking system as ingenious as it is practical. Unlike traditional locks, it locks automatically as soon as the door closes, without you having to think about it. Perfect for moments when you are in a hurry or to avoid forgetfulness! 😅

Why choose a slam lock?

The magic of the slam lock lies in its simplicity: once the door is slammed, the mechanism locks immediately. This means that even if you are distracted or leave quickly, your van remains protected. It is an ideal solution for travel, frequent stops, or simply for people who want to simplify their life while maximizing their security.

Enhanced security

The slam lock is often used in addition to other systems, such as deadlocks or alarms. It offers instant protection against intrusions, as a closed door is a locked door. Burglars therefore have a much harder time accessing the vehicle, even in the case of a quick attempt.

Professional installation

Although some experienced DIYers may attempt the installation themselves, the slam lock is generally installed by a professional to ensure optimal operation. Once in place, it becomes a valuable ally to secure your van every time the door closes.

A must-have for vanlifers

For Vanlife enthusiasts, the slam lock is a small revolution: no more stress about whether you locked the doors properly! It’s peace of mind that allows you to fully enjoy the road and the scenery, without compromising on security. 🚐✨

Sliding door lock

The sliding door lock is a security solution as simple as it is effective, perfectly suited for all Vanlife enthusiasts. Easy to install, it offers robust protection against break-in attempts.

How does it work?

The principle is simple: a hole is drilled in the sliding door rail to allow the insertion of a solid padlock. Once the padlock is locked, it creates a physical barrier that prevents the sliding door from opening. This mechanism makes any intrusion through the side door practically impossible without specialized tools.

Why choose this lock?

1. Easy installation: No need to be a DIY expert! With a few basic tools, you can install it in no time.
2. Enhanced security: This type of lock is perfect for deterring thieves. Even if someone tries to enter, they will face solid resistance.
3. Reliability: No electronic gadgets or batteries to change. It is a purely mechanical solution, so zero risk of failure.

Interior lock for rear doors

An interior lock for rear van doors with a metal plate is an ideal solution to secure access to your vehicle.

This system is designed to be easily installed inside the van, allowing the rear doors to be locked discreetly and effectively.

The metal plate is fixed at the locking mechanism and can be operated from inside the vehicle, thus offering increased security against break-ins.

Installation is simple, without requiring complex modifications, and this type of locking is particularly suitable for commercial vehicles, Campervans, or transport vans.

Lock for front doors

The lock for the front doors is essential to ensure the security of your van. The Fiamma security bar is a robust solution that connects the two cabin doors, preventing them from being opened from the outside. Easy to install, it offers reliable protection against break-ins. If you are looking for a DIY alternative, a strong chain can be used to keep the doors closed, providing an economical and customized option. This solution strengthens the security of your vehicle without requiring complex or costly equipment.

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The best alarms for Campervans

Alarm with motion detector

The CPVAN motion detector is the most popular option. Easy to install and very effective: if it detects an intruder, it sounds the alarm. 🚨

Window break alarm

An alarm detecting vibrations or glass breakage is ideal. It installs directly on the window and reacts to the slightest shock.

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The best cameras for Campervans

Arlo Pro3

Small, powerful, and super practical! It offers 2K resolution, a color night mode, and 6 months autonomy. All controllable from our phone. 📹

DashCam

A dashcam, like the Redtiger, is great for filming trips but also useful in case of hit and run or accident. 🚗💥

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Other tips to secure our vans

• Locked chest: a kind of large safe, sometimes welded to the floor so it cannot be taken away. 🔒 
• Curtains and tinted films: At the beginning of this article, we emphasized the importance of keeping your valuables out of sight. This applies to both the cab and the rear of the van! One of the best solutions is to install curtains in your van.🚐 (At the same time, discover our selection of awning windows and full windows for van and Motorhome)

• GPS tracker: A GPS tracker for van is one of the most important pieces of equipment you can install in your van. In case of theft, it will precisely show you where your vehicle is located. Many GPS trackers for van also offer additional features, such as displaying a map of the places you have traveled and the distance covered. Generally, you have two options for a GPS tracker for van:

• a model with an internal battery (90 days autonomy)
• or a model connected to the van's batteries.

We highly recommend choosing the GPS tracker connected to the vehicle's batteries. It is very easy to install and saves you the hassle of having to recharge the device. An important point to note: these GPS trackers for van are very affordable to buy but require a monthly subscription to keep the SIM card active. In my opinion, it is well worth it. 🛰️

 

Anti-shatter films: a discreet but incredibly effective protection for your windows 🚐🛡️

The anti-shatter film is a clever and affordable solution to enhance the security of your van. This thin plastic film, applied directly to your windows, acts as an additional shield. Unlike regular glass, which can break after a single hit, the anti-shatter film significantly slows down break-in attempts by holding the glass shards together.

The result? Not only does it make things harder for intruders, but it also creates enough noise and time to discourage them from continuing. This accessory is particularly useful to protect sensitive areas of your van, such as the windows of the rear or side doors, often targeted during break-ins.

Easy to install and completely transparent, the anti-shatter film does not compromise the aesthetics of your vehicle, nor the visibility from the inside. It is an ideal additional layer of protection to travel with peace of mind, whether you are in the great outdoors or urban areas.

If you want to secure your van without undertaking major work, the anti-shatter film is a simple, effective, and economical solution. ✨🔒

• Outdoor lighting with motion detector: a must-have to deter intruders. 💡 Earlier in this article, we mentioned that bright lights are an excellent way to deter crime. For this reason, it is best to park in well-lit areas. A great way to bring light to your van is to install an outdoor lamp with a motion detector.

You can choose a motion detector lamp powered by battery or alternating current (AC). We recommend the AC lamp, as it is a more durable installation and can be programmed.

 

• Window bars: simple and incredibly effective security 🚐🔒

Window bars are an essential solution to enhance the security of your van. Their concept is simple: they attach inside your windows, forming an impenetrable physical barrier. Even if an intruder manages to break the glass, the bars prevent any passage, making access impossible.

This installation is particularly useful if you often travel or park in risky areas. In addition to deterring break-in attempts, they offer invaluable peace of mind, especially when you leave your van unattended.

Easy to install, sturdy and discreet, the bars for window integrate perfectly with your layout. It’s a simple and effective trick to secure your belongings and your van against any intrusion. If security is a priority for you, these bars should be at the top of your essential equipment list! 🔐✨

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Ready to set off on your adventure with peace of mind? 🌟