It's a thought every camper has. You've just set up your perfect pitch, and you're ready to head to the beach or go for a long hike. But then you look at your tent, full of hundreds of pounds worth of gear, and think, "Is it really safe to just leave all this here?".
The good news is that campsite theft is very rare. The camping community is generally a friendly and honest one. However, it's always smart to take a few simple precautions to give yourself total peace of mind. My approach isn't about paranoia, it's about being sensible so you can relax and properly enjoy your holiday. Here are my top tips.
My 9 Practical Tips for a Secure Campsite
1. Get to Know Your Neighbours
This is the best security system there is. A simple "hello" when you arrive makes a huge difference. Neighbours who know you are much more likely to keep an eye on your tent and notice if anyone suspicious is poking around.
2. Choose Your Pitch Wisely
If you're worried, ask for a pitch that's in a well lit area or has a good line of sight from the reception or warden's van. Avoid pitches that are hidden away in a corner or right next to a public footpath that runs through the site.
3. Don't Flaunt Valuables
This is just common sense. Don't leave your new iPad, camera, or wallet sitting on the camp table while you're away from your tent. Keep your valuables out of sight, either locked in your car or tucked away discreetly.
4. Lock Valuables in Your Car
Your car is the most secure place on your pitch. Before you go out for the day, put high value items like laptops and electronics in the boot, out of sight. A tent zipper offers no real security, but a locked car is a serious deterrent.
5. Use a Simple Bike Lock
It might sound silly, but a cheap bike lock is great for securing larger items that you can't fit in the car. I often thread one through the frames of our camping chairs and table legs, and then lock them to the alloy wheel of my car.
6. Make Your Tent Look Lived In
An empty, pristine looking pitch can be a target. I often leave a pair of old walking boots by the door and a camping mug on the table. It's a small thing, but it creates the impression that someone might be inside or could be back at any second.
7. Zip Your Tent, But Don't Padlock It
Putting a padlock on your tent's zipper is a bad idea. It does nothing to stop a thief with a knife, but it screams "I have expensive things in here!". Even worse, it can be a serious safety hazard if you need to get out quickly in an emergency.
8. Use Your Car's Alarm
Most modern car keys have a panic button. When you're tucked up in your tent at night, keep your car keys handy. If you hear a strange noise, a quick press of the panic button will set off your car alarm, which is a very effective way to scare off any potential intruders.
My Top Tip for Peace of Mind
A Portable Travel Safe
"For things like passports, spare cash, and car keys, I use a small, portable travel safe. It's basically a tough, slash proof bag with a combination lock and a steel cable. I can lock it to a secure point inside my car's boot, and it gives me total peace of mind that my most important items are protected."
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