If you’ve purchased or own a caravan, at one point or another, you’ve likely considered what you can do to protect your asset. GPS tracking solutions are fast becoming one of the most popular ways that users can have peace of mind that if anything happens, they can track their leisure vehicles.
It may surprise you to know that Australia has one of the highest rates of vehicle theft in the world. According to the Australian Security Magazine, almost 100,000 vehicles are stolen every year across all states, so it should come as no surprise that vehicle security should be an important consideration.
Caravans are, unfortunately, very popular targets of vehicle theft, and with fewer in-built security features as compared to modern cars, the likelihood of them being stolen is quite high. So, is it worth installing a GPS tracker on your caravan? In this article, we’ll delve into the pros and cons of doing so, as well as providing a guide on what you can expect if you do end up tracking your caravan.
GPS Trackers for Caravans – What Do They Do?
A GPS tracker works by making use of satellite signals to keep track of the current location of your caravan. It offers real-time location data allowing you to keep tabs on the whereabouts of your caravan no matter where it is.
Most GPS trackers for caravans can be installed relatively easily, and come in the form of discreet units that are not easily detected. Once installed, these GPS trackers can be left in your caravan and function on their own without the need for much maintenance or battery replacements.
Once you have a GPS tracker installed on your caravan, you will be able to access its current whereabouts through a standard web browser on your computer or on a mobile phone.
Why put a GPS Tracker on your Caravan
1. Security
Undoubtedly one of the biggest reasons why your caravan needs a GPS tracker is for security. In the unfortunate event of theft or loss having a GPS tracker will allow you to immediately pinpoint the location of your caravan, helping you retrieve it quicker and easier.
In fact, it is estimated that having a tracking device installed can improve your chances of getting your caravan back to about 95%, which offers peace of mind for any owner.
Caravans are expensive assets, so it’s a good idea to make sure that they are sufficiently safeguarded. After all, if you have taken steps to ensure that your car does not get stolen, shouldn’t you do the same for your caravan?
2. Safety
Apart from ensuring its security, the Caravan GPS tracker can also act as a safety feature. when roaming on the open road, accidents or breakdowns can happen unexpectedly. When that happens, the GPS tracker can also be used by emergency services or loved ones to help locate your exact coordinates, allowing you to get assistance quicker.
3. Personal Trip Data
Logging the data of your road trips is not a feature that everyone will use, but it’s there if you need it. Because the caravan GPS tracker constantly records your location data you can also use it to review information about your road trips, such as distance travelled, time taken, and visit locations. This could also be useful to help track maintenance intervals, and ensure your caravan is safe for the next journey.
All of this data can be easily accessed through your GPS tracker’s online platform, allowing you to store them for posterity or share them with your friends and family.
Is it Legal for a GPS Tracker to be on Caravan Rentals?
If you have a caravan that you regularly loan out to others, having a GPS Tracker to ensure your caravan’s security is definitely a worthwhile investment. However, you should note that in most states of Australia, while it is legal for you to place a GPS Tracker on a rental vehicle, you will be required to notify the parties who are renting your caravan that you have a GPS Tracker installed. Some states may also require you to place a written notice of this within the caravan.
How much does a Caravan GPS Tracker Cost?
GPS Trackers for caravans can cost between $150 – $350 in Australia. While this upfront cost may seem steep for some, the investment in a reliable GPS Tracker for your valuable caravan is well worth the benefits and peace of mind that it offers.
Netstar offers a range of GPS Asset Tracking solutions suitable for caravans and RV’s of all sizes and models. If you are looking for a comprehensive GPS tracker for your caravan, simply contact our helpful team; we will help you find a customised solution that meets your needs and budget so that your caravan can stay secure, on and off the road.