GPS TRACKERS
Our caravan also has a Black Knight GPS tracker
installed inside a cupboard that shows us – and
anyone we give our log-in code to – where the
van is at any time.
Unlike devices that require a SIM card and a
mobile phone plan with data limits, the in-built
M2M connectivity chip provides instant global
connectivity with no roaming charges. Also, as it
doesn’t have a removable SIM card, it cannot be
re-used or re-tasked if stolen.
Users can download and utilise a free app
(available for iPhone or Android) to receive alerts
or track their journey via their smartphone, while
a ‘Geofence’ feature alerts you if the vehicle
breaches a defined location radius.
In addition to the GPS tracking device, the Al-Ko
version of the Black Knight includes a ‘tagging
wand’ that allows you to tag your vehicle and
belongings with microscopic microdots. This gives
your equipment its own ‘fingerprint’ that enables
you to prove ownership in the event of theft.
SECURITY DOORS
The latest Dometic CaraD doors fitted to Jaycos
and many other caravans are probably the most
solid on the market. Along with a four-point locking
system, they have a highly-resistant safety mesh
and durable glass that will take a very determined
thief to break. However, at the very least, ensure
that you snib the lock on your caravan door at night
when free-camping, or in remoted areas.
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The Dometic CaraD doors have
a four-point locking system.
SENSOR LIGHTS
You can fit movement-detecting sensor lights to
your caravan, but be prepared to be kept awake
when they pick up every possum, fruit bat or
fluttering tree branch.
Instead, we have lights on each end and sides of our
caravan that can be activated by a single internal
switch if we hear anything suspicious. But make
sure you turn off your interior lights at the same
time so you can see out, but no-one can see in!
SAFETY IN NUMBERS
If you really feel nervous about free-camping
alone, the solution is simple. Camp near someone
else – not too close to encroach on their privacy,
but within clear sight. Intruders are less likely to
approach a group of caravans than a lone traveller.