Whether you use your van to take bikes and surfboards on holiday, or to transport family, maximizing your van security is crucial. Van security helps protect your belongings from theft and gives you peace of mind.

A lot of these tips are useful for securing your car too!

In the UK, van theft increased by a staggering 20% in the first half of 2023 alone¹. Make sure you’re covered with comprehensive van insurance to avoid being a statistic. Once you’re insured, there are some tips and tricks you can follow keep your van safe. We’ve come up with a helpful guide: Here are 5 Ways to Maximise Van Security.

1.  Basic Precautions

Always Lock Your Van: Whenever you leave your vehicle, regardless of how brief the absence may be, you need to make sure it’s locked. This simple step helps put off thieves and keeps your belongings safe. Remember – an unlocked vehicle can void your insurance policy.

Keep Your Windows Closed: Avoid giving thieves a simple way into your van. Again, this can mean your insurance won’t cover any theft or damage.

Remove Your Keys: Never leave your keys in your van, doing so drastically increases the risk of theft. Always take your keys with you and store them securely. Leaving your keys in your van unattended can also lead to invalid insurance.

Hide Your Valuables: Store valuable items out of plain sight or, ideally, remove them entirely when leaving your van unattended. If your van has no windows in the back, store items there. Or in a glovebox or tucked safely under a seat out of view. Even if your van is locked, loose change, phones, tools or laptops can tempt thieves to smash a window for a quick pay off.

2. Improve Your Security Measures

Install Extra Locks: Install extra locks such as slam locks or deadlocks to provide enhanced security for your van. A slam lock is a system that automatically locks a vehicle door when it’s closed. Van deadlocks are different from standard locks because they have a bolt that slots directly into the van door frame and are much more difficult to break. These devices can deter thieves from trying to break into your van, as they know it will be harder than normal.

Use Steering Locks: Steering locks are large metal devices that thread through your steering wheel to stop it being turned. They are visible deterrents that can put thieves off and add an extra level of protection to your vehicle when its parked or stored.

3. Use Advanced Security Features

Install Dash Cams: Dash cams with a ‘parking mode’ function, continuously monitor your van even when it’s unattended, capturing potential break-ins or suspicious activity. Make sure cameras are discreetly placed to prevent them from drawing attention and becoming targets themselves.

Consider GPS Tracking: Consider installing a GPS tracking device. This is a small device that tells you where your van is when you access the information online. This can significantly increase the chances of recovering your vehicle in the event of theft.

Keep in mind that some tracking services may require a paid subscription to access real-time location information and other advanced features.

Place Security Film on Windows: Enhance your van’s security by applying security film to its windows. This specialised film strengthens glass surfaces, making them more resistant to shattering attempts by thieves. If you plan to use tinted window film, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the relevant laws. You can find all the necessary information here. Additionally, remember to inform your insurance provider about any modifications you make to your vehicle.

4. Install a Bulkhead

A bulkhead separates the driving section of the van from the storage area. By installing a bulkhead and solid panels on your rear doors, you can create a physical barrier that deters theft and prevents unauthorised access. Reinforcing these areas can significantly reduce the risk of break-ins and keep your belongings protected.

Remember, when making any modifications to your van you need to inform your insurer.

5. Insurance

It’s essential to have the right insurance for your van, based on how you use it. For example, if you use your van for business purposes, you’ll need a different type of insurance. Not declaring business use could result in your insurance not being valid in the event of a claim.

You can get a personal van insurance quote today with GoSkippy. Having the correct insurance allows you to relax and enjoy the road, knowing your van is protected against theft.

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