
Security alarms are a great way to improve your motorhome or caravan security. As well as motorhome CCTV, security lights, and other deterrents, it helps prevent break-ins and burglaries from your caravan — whether you’re staying there or not.
Caravan and motorhome theft is on the rise. So it’s essential to protect your vehicles. Find the right alarm system for you in our round-up of the best motorhome alarm systems. You’ll learn:
- What makes a good motorhome alarm system
- Types of alarm systems available
- The 5 best motorhome alarm systems.
What makes a good alarm system for a motorhome or caravan?
The best motorhome alarm systems include certain features:
- WiFi connectivity — smart alarms allow you to monitor alarms remotely and continuously, so you can be sure your caravan is always secure
- Multiple sensors — the best alarms protect all areas of your motorhome, including windows, doors, and external areas
- Easy to install — they should be simple to implement, but not easy for criminals to deactivate.
What alarm types can you get?
Most motorhome alarms fall into one of 4 categories:
- Motion sensor — detects motion within a specified area. Many alarms come with adjustable sensitivity, so it won’t be set off by pets, rogue footballs, or leaves
- Magnetic seal — these are usually attached to windows and doors. If the magnetic seal is broken (for example, if a burglar opens a window) the alarm will sound
- Vibration activated — these alarms alert you on physical movement of the alarm — so it’s usually best for moveable items like bikes and heavy electronics, although some people have had success installing them in motorhomes
- Pressure activated — mostly available as pressure-activated mats, these alarms will sound if someone steps on it at the entrance to your caravan or motorhome.
Which alarm type works best for motorhomes and caravans?
All these alarm types can protect your motorhome. But your choice depends on your priorities.
Motion sensor alarms are the most commonly used type, as they’re relatively easy to install and often come in combination with security lights and/or CCTV cameras. But they can be overly sensitive, leading to false alarms — which may mean you’re not as vigilant if there’s a real intruder.
Magnetic seals are very effective at sounding the alarm if there’s an attempted break-in, and the false alarm rate is typically much lower than with a motion detector. But these can only protect the interior of your caravan or motorhome — it won’t protect awning contents, roof-mounted satellites, or other external equipment.
Vibration- and pressure-activated alarms aren’t usually as effective for protecting your motorhome. But they can be considered if you want a quick fix on a small budget.
No matter which motorhome alarm type you choose, remote access and continuous monitoring capability should be a serious consideration. As well as alerting your neighbours of an intruder, you’ll be able to monitor your motorhome security from afar. So you’ll have an added layer of security, and peace of mind that your motorhome is safe.
You may need to set up motorhome WiFi for this to work, so be prepared to invest a little more to get the best possible security for your vehicle.
5 best motorhome alarm systems
Ready to find a top-of-the-range alarm system for your motorhome, caravan, or campervan? Here are 5 of the best motorhome alarm systems currently available.
Ring by Amazon — £219.99
- 4.7 stars
- Motion sensor
- WiFi connectivity
Ring is one of the most popular smart alarm systems for homes as well as motorhomes. Its extensive features include real-time notifications and WiFi connectivity, allowing you to monitor your motorhome from wherever you are.
There are some security issues to be aware of with Ring. Criminals have been known to hack Ring systems — so be hypervigilant about keeping your motorhome WiFi secure to prevent it from being infiltrated.
Eufy — £24.99
- 4.6 stars
- Motion sensor (with adjustable sensitivity)
- Get notifications from the Eufy security app
With a detection range of 30 feet, the Eufy is a great option for protecting most motorhomes and caravans. It’s much more affordable than Ring, and doesn’t come with as many different parts — many of which aren’t really necessary for motorhome use.
That said, the Eufy isn’t waterproof. So it can’t be used outdoors without some kind of additional protection. If you choose to use the Eufy, make sure it’s installed in a safe, dry place where it can maximise its 30-foot detection range.
ASGHome Wireless Alarm System — £45.99
- 4.1 stars
- Magnetic sensor
- App notifications
Some users report that this alarm system is tricky to install. But once it’s up and running, it has all the features you need for robust motorhome security.
Attach the 3 magnetic sensors to windows and doors of your caravan (you can purchase additional sensors if needed). Download the Smart Life app and use this to monitor, arm, and disarm your alarm system. At £45.99, it’s much cheaper than the Ring, and offers all the same benefits.
Tiiwee X1 — £69.90
- 4.5 stars
- Motion sensor
- Expandable sensor network
This all-in-one kit is ideal if you want to install a substantial alarm system that protects every element of your vehicle. It includes 4 window sensors, which connect to the siren over a wireless connection. The siren can be armed and disarmed via a remote control or on the siren itself.
Although it scores highly for ease of installation and vigilant protection, it loses points for lack of remote monitoring. The Tiiwee won’t alert you via push notification or text alert — so it’s not ideal if you want remote monitoring capabilities.
WiFi for motorhome security alarm systems
For maximum motorhome security, a WiFi-connected alarm is a must-have. Maxview’s Roam router and ultrafast Roam X router are fantastic options if you haven’t installed WiFi in your vehicle yet. Find out everything you need to know about caravan and motorhome WiFi.
