20 great 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 motorcycles, this number rises even more! For example, in 2020, about 121,500 vehicles were stolen (cars + motorcycles). 🏍️🚗

So, let's not kid ourselves, 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’ll explain everything!

First of all, a little word about Vanlife Store

At Vanlife Store, we are above all vanlife and adventure enthusiasts! After years on the road living our dream, we love to share our tips, ideas, and good deals to help you turn your van into a real home on wheels.

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

Subscribe to our newsletter to receive our best tips, inspiration for your next getaways, and great offers to equip your van. Ready to embark on an adventure with us? 🚐✨ Let’s go!

The essentials of securing a converted vehicle

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

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

The basics of security for vans

Let's start with the basics! 😊

Forced start

The first point to address is the forced start. 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 forced starting when the key is removed. 🙌

So, not too much to worry about for forced starting. But what we really need to be concerned about is... theft! 😬

Here are some basic security systems for our vans:

• Do not leave valuables in sight It's common sense, but it matters! No wallet, phone, cash, or laptop visible in the cabin. 🛑
• Park in well-lit areas Light deters thieves. According to a study, street lighting reduces crime by 14%. 🌟
• Cities are riskier The risk of burglary is much higher in the city than in the countryside. So, head to nature! 🌳
• Do not leave anything lying around at the campsite Campsites are not spared. This summer, we had two chairs and a training board stolen! Let's pack everything up before leaving.
• Store security information on your phone Keep insurance papers, registration, and other important documents on your phone to manage 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 been around forever (even before forced starting became common!). 🚗

Clutch pedal lock

The Clutch Claw locks the clutch, preventing the vehicle from being driven. Handy, right?

Wheel clamp

You know the clamps for illegal parking? Here, it's intentional! A wheel clamp is a great tool to secure our vans.

Deadlock

The deadlock is an essential solution to secure your van's doors. This mechanical lock only opens with a key, providing 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 based on your needs:

• Interior deadbolt (mortises): Installed directly inside the door, these locks blend into the van's structure and are usually installed by professionals. They offer a high level of security while remaining discreet.
• Exterior deadbolt: Ideal for DIY converted vans, these locks are mounted outside the doors, and their installation is within the reach of DIY enthusiasts. Models like the Master van lock or the Thule van lock are particularly appreciated for their reliability and ease of use.

The advantage of deadbolts

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 secluded spot, it's a real asset to protect your home on wheels!

Slam lock

The slam lock is a locking system that is 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're 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’s an ideal solution for trips, frequent stops, or simply for those who want to simplify their lives while maximizing their security.

Enhanced security

The slam lock is often used in conjunction with other systems, such as deadbolts or alarms. It offers instant protection against intrusions, as a closed door is a locked door. Burglars therefore have much more difficulty accessing the vehicle, even in the event of a quick attempt.

Installation by a professional

Although some seasoned DIYers may attempt to install it themselves, the slam lock is generally installed by a professional to ensure optimal operation. Once in place, it becomes a valuable ally in securing your van with every door closure.

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 that is as simple as it is effective, perfectly suited for all vanlife enthusiasts. Easy to install, it offers robust protection against intrusion attempts.

How does it work?

The principle is simple: a hole is drilled in the sliding door rail to allow a solid padlock to be inserted. 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’s a purely mechanical solution, so zero worries about breakdowns.

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 for discreet and effective locking of the rear doors.

The metal plate is fixed at the locking mechanism level and can be operated from inside the vehicle, thus providing increased security against intrusions.

Installation is simple, requiring no complex modifications, and this type of locking is particularly suitable for utility vehicles, converted vans, or transport vans.

Lock for front doors

The lock for 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 opening from the outside. Easy to install, it offers reliable protection against intrusions. If you're looking for a DIY alternative, a sturdy chain can be used to keep the doors closed, providing an economical and customized option. This solution helps to enhance the security of your vehicle without requiring complex or expensive equipment.

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The best alarms for vans

Alarm with motion detector

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

Glass break alarm

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

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The best cameras for vans

Arlo Pro3

Small, powerful, and super handy! It offers 2K resolution, color night mode, and a 6-month battery life. All controllable from our phone. 📹

DashCam

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

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Other tips to secure our vans

• Locked safe: a kind of large safe, sometimes welded to the ground so it can't be taken away. 🔒
• Curtains and tinted films: At the beginning of this article, we highlighted the importance of keeping your valuables out of sight. This applies to both the cabin and the back of the van! One of the best solutions is to install curtains in your van.🚐 (While you're at it, check out our selection of projectable windows and complete windows for vans and motorhomes)

• GPS tracker: A GPS tracker for a van is one of the most important pieces of equipment you can install in your van. In case of theft, it will tell you exactly where your vehicle is located. Many GPS trackers for vans 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 van GPS tracker:

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

We highly recommend opting for 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 vans are very affordable to purchase, 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 highly 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 keeping the glass shards together.

The result? Not only does it complicate the task for intruders, but it also creates enough noise and time to deter them from continuing. This accessory is particularly useful for protecting sensitive areas of your van, such as the rear or side door windows, which are often targeted during break-ins.

Easy to install and completely transparent, the anti-shatter film does not compromise the aesthetics of your vehicle or visibility from the inside. It is an additional layer of protection ideal for traveling with peace of mind, whether you are in the great outdoors or in urban areas.

If you are looking to secure your van without engaging in major renovations, the anti-shatter film is a solution that is both simple, effective, and economical. ✨🔒

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

You can opt for a battery-powered or AC-powered motion detector lamp. We recommend the AC lamp, as it is a more durable installation and can be programmed.

• Window bars: a simple and highly effective security solution 🚐🔒

Window bars are an essential solution to enhance the security of your van. Their concept is simple: they are fixed inside your windows, forming an impassable 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 travel or park often in high-risk areas. In addition to deterring break-in attempts, they provide invaluable peace of mind, especially when you leave your van unattended.

Easy to install, sturdy, and discreet, window bars integrate perfectly into your layout. It’s a simple and effective tip 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 list of essential equipment! 🔐✨

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Ready to embark on an adventure with peace of mind? 🌟