How to Access the Internet in your Caravan or Motorhome

When you’re away in your caravan or motorhome it’s nice to have some home comforts, and that can include internet access. Here’s our rundown of the options available to you if you need to get online.

WiFi

Many caravan sites now have WiFi, but the quality, cost and availability of the connection can vary greatly.

Connection is usually made by entering a pass code into your web browser. It can be a faster alternative to other methods of accessing the internet and means that most of the time you don't have to worry about data allowances. You may be able to access free WiFi zones in town centres or other public spaces, or a local café may offer their password in exchange for a drink.

Due to the low power levels and high frequencies used, WiFi reception on campsites can be very patchy. This is particularly the case where there is a lot of vegetation and when there is heavy rain, as both of these can absorb the signal.

One way of improving reception is to invest in a WiFi booster device. In simple terms, these plug into a USB port on your PC, effectively replacing the internal WiFi circuitry with something more powerful. MMM Magazine recommends the iBoost Pro D8 Directional System for £159.99, for its performance, popularity and value.

There are also external antennas which can be attached to the side of your caravan. However, although this can give you a faster connection, if the bottleneck is between you and the source of the signal, it won’t make much difference if the site WiFi is already oversubscribed.

Mobile Broadband

This is an internet connection using a mobile phone network. It is often more reliable than WiFi but, since you are paying for data you need to be careful to avoid additional charges.

If you have a smartphone you can access the internet using the mobile broadband network, or you can connect your laptops or tablets to your phone by tethering – turning on your phone’s personal hotspot. Some networks charge extra for this, limit usage or don’t allow it abroad.

Be aware that if you exceed your set data limit your connection may be restricted to a very much 

lower speed.

Data roaming charges when abroad can be astronomical, although the situation is getting better. In Europe, mobile data coverage has increased and data roaming charges have reduced. From June 2015 the most you can be charged for mobile data is 5p per Mb, however, this is set to be dropped altogether by mid-2017.

As a rule, each Mb equates to 20 seconds of video, a minute of audio, or a standard webpage. So, 500Mb of data will allow you to download 500 songs, or an hour of video, or handle 1000 emails with attachments. It will also allow you to browse thousands of web pages but if they contain interactive content such as videos, data will be used much faster.

Pay-as-you-go-packages range in price but for example, Three offer 1Gb for £10 which is valid for 30 days. Contract plans will give you more data for your money, but will lock you into a contract.  

If you're not sure about your contract when it comes to data and travelling abroad, be sure to change your settings to turn off 3G and data roaming; only connect via WiFi where available.

To improve performance, an unlocked MiFi device will take a SIM card and produce a WiFi connection for up to 10 devices. Some MiFi devices have external antenna connectors which can improve the signal, especially if roof or window mounted. Prices range from around £30 up to around £150.

Access via Satellite

Internet access via satellite is reliable but very costly, with a fully automatic system priced at around £3400 and ongoing charges between £15 and £60 per month. Satellite internet is best if internet connection is absolutely vital for you.

In conclusion, it’s best to agree what your particular needs are, and what your budget is. Mobile broadband is probably the best option if you want an internet connection wherever you are, but WiFi will probably satisfy your needs if you’re happy to wait until a connection is available. If the sky’s the limit, go for satellite internet!

The Caravan Industry & Security – Protecting Your Caravan

The caravan industry is an ever changing market, and with that comes developments in security as well as trends in caravan crime. Tim Booth, from the Caravan Safety and Security Group gives us a run down on what’s happening at the moment.

Looking at recent press reports it is very apparent that the Leisure Market is currently very buoyant, with both caravan and motorhome manufacturers reporting  high levels of sales. There is also a marked increase in the number of sales of European manufactured caravans.

Whenever a buoyant market for sales exists in any industry this is often seen by criminal groups as an opportunity to take advantage of a ‘high demand’ by seeking to meet this demand themselves. Of course, they achieve this supply at the expense of the current keeper or even the dealership, by stealing the caravans that they supply.

This then, is an important time of the year to make sure that you do everything you can to protect your caravan or motorhome.

Make sure that your caravan insurance cover is up to date and that you are meeting the requirements of the policy.

Of course it is not always possible to store your caravan or motorhome at your home address, due to planning conditions, and for some a lack of space – so owners increasingly turn to storage site providers.

It is a fact that many of the caravans being stolen are actually being taken from ‘informal’ storage sites – where caravans and motorhomes are just ‘parked up’ for the winter period. There are no inspections made by the site owner, or even the consumer. Many of the tracking systems fitted at time of manufacture only actually activate once the owner discovers that their property has been stolen, and then notifies the tracking company – the property can be long gone by then and chances of recovery are generally very low.

A ‘pro-active’ system will notify you if there are any issues that need to be addressed, so it is worth checking whether this is the type of system that you have – if your caravan or motorhome is fitted with such a system are you subscribed to their monitoring service?

Certificated storage sites, like the CASSOA scheme, offer the consumer a level of protection that is recognised by many insurers as a ‘positive deterrent’ to opportunist thieves. Some even offer insurance benefits for using such a facility.

Of course – if you are considering buying a caravan or motorhome, then make sure that you carry out a CRiS check on any caravan – this can tell you whether the caravan is currently stolen, or if there is finance outstanding. A HPI check can provide you with similar information about a motorhome. 

The cost of these checks could prevent you from becoming a victim of those people who choose to steal caravans and motorhomes, and then look to target unsuspecting consumers.

These straight forward measures can serve to protect your caravan or motorhome from being targeted by thieves.

Tim Booth provides specialist security advice to the caravan and leisure industry. He also works to support the National Caravan Council, The Camping and Caravanning Club and The Caravan Club by delivering an industry group called the Caravan Safety and Security Group.

Tim Booth Consultancy Services Ltd

Caravan Safety & Security Group

CaSSOA Working in Partnership with Sold Secure

Sold Secure is a company dedicated to reducing the risk of crime by the assessment of security products through manual attack testing.

Established in 1992 by Northumbria and Essex Police with the help and backing of the Home Office, Sold Secure is now owned and administered by the Master Locksmiths Association and works from purpose built laboratories in Daventry.

The scheme has close ties with a number of constabularies and insurers who provide regular information regarding the methods of theft and the tools utilised by criminals in their areas. This helps to maintain up to date specifications and means security products can be assessed in the light of the risk they are likely to encounter when in use

Manufacturers and suppliers can apply to have their products approved by Sold Secure. Products which have been satisfactorily assessed may bear the coveted Sold Secure Approved quality mark. Information on these approved products is circulated by Sold Secure to crime prevention officers, insurance companies, the media, the Home Office and the public, and is available free to those who require it in the form of the catalogue or via the Sold Secure website.

Steffan George, of Sold Secure says "We’re delighted to partner up with CaSSOA who we believe have the same ultimate goal as ourselves in terms of working in collaboration to reduce crime".

For more information about Sold Secure call, email or visit the website:

Telephone: 01327 264687
Email: admin@soldsecure.com
Website: www.soldsecure.com

Thh Farm Business Innovation Show 2015

The Farm Business Innovation Show 2015 is the most comprehensive and interactive show dedicated to helping farmers generate new forms of income from their land.

Taking place at the NEC in Birmingham, the show aims to help farms generate new forms of income from their land, and is the only farm business event that offers rural entrpreneurs the guidance, inspiration, suppliers and resources in diversifying out of agriculture.

This year CaSSOA will be exhibiting at the Farm Innovation Show, and we'll be joining over 5000 farmers, land owners and people with an interest in rural business,

With networking opportunities, over 200 exhibitors and a range of seminars and workshops, there could be an opportunity to create a business that could complement your primary source of income.

The schedule of seminars and workshops throughout the show cover a variety of topics, including leisure activities, glamping, renewable energy, farm shops, micro-breweries, and more. Each session is delivered by an expert, passing on their guidance in how to identify the right opportunities, securing planning permission, and attracting vital investment. The conference will also explore the latest trends in

diversification that farmers and rural entrepreneurs will look towards next year, featuring an unparalleled level of expert advice, knowledge and inspiration.   

Run in conjunction with the Farm Business Innovation Show, the Holiday Park Innovation Show
offers holiday park owners the guidance, inspiration, supplies, and resources to put their holiday park on the map.

These shows will give you the chance to network, explore the latest trends in diversification and find some inspiration of how to diversify. They will also offer opportunities for interaction with the farmers and holiday park owners who themselves have successfully diversified, offering you the chance to find out what worked for them and to meet face-to-face with the product suppliers who can ensure future profit is made from your land.

The Farm Business Innovation and The Holiday Park Innovation Show will take place on the 11th and 12th of November at the NEC in Birmingham, and is absolutely free to attend.

Book your ticket online here.

Vermin Proof your Caravan

Prepare your caravan for long term storage to prevent vermin damage.

Caravan Magazine talks us through some top tips for keeping your caravan safe from rodents.

Mice can squeeze through tiny gaps including the plastic vents and gas drop-outs under your caravans. And if they don’t fit, they can gnaw through them.

Without blocking your vents (it’s dangerous), cover them with a piece of fine metal mesh, chicken wire doubled over, or a metallic pan scrubber, stapled firmly in place. Don’t bother filling gaps with expanding foam, mice seem to particularly love chewing through that. It’s like a mouse Crunchie bar!

• Flush a strong detergent down your sink plug hole, as mice can be attracted to bits of food that go down the waste pipe.

• At either side of your front locker there are usually gaps leading up the hollow pillars and into the caravan. Block these with some scrunched-up fine wire mesh netting.

• Investigate the floor of your caravan for any tiny holes or gaps, and make sure all are properly filled.

• Seal around all cable holes in the floor with a good quality silicone sealant.

• Don’t leave food (human or pet) in the caravan.

• Clean the fridge and bins thoroughly.

• The strong smell of a used barbecue will attract mice and rats. Don’t store one in your caravan. If you do, keep it spotlessly clean.

• Remove potential nesting materials from your caravan. Consider storing expensive sofa cushions and mattresses at home over winter.

• Vacuum your caravan before storing it, to remove almost-invisible crumbs of food.

Storing Your Caravan

• Caravans on hard-standing are less likely to get infested than those on grass. Mice avoid areas where they are exposed such as bare hard-standings.

• Farm storage locations are likely to have more rodents around than other options.

• Don't give rodents an easy route into your caravan. Even sagging caravan covers can provide access.

• Mice find their way to food and shelter by following trails of mouse urine. Consider spraying your corner steadies, tyres and jockey wheel with a Jeyes Fluid solution to eradicate these trails.

• One option is to remove your caravan's wheels and replace them with axle-stands or 'winter wheels' when storing it through the winter. This makes the van more secure, prevents tyre damage and makes it trickier for mice to get up to the chassis.

• Certain scents are believed to repel mice. These include tumble-dryer sheets and mothballs.

• Check with your caravan storage site to make sure they have a vermin control regime in place.

For more advice on preparing your caravan for storage click here.

Thank you to Caravan Magazine for this feature.

What is CaSSOA?

We could write a lengthy post describing what CaSSOA is, but why do that when we could give you a video to watch!

Enjoy.

For more information, or to locate a CaSSOA accredited storage site please visit our website www.cassoa.co.uk.

Choosing a Caravan Motor Mover

What is a motor mover?

A motor mover is a manual or 12V motorised device which is clamped to a caravan chassis and connects to rollers attached to the caravan wheels which then propel the caravan in any chosen 

direction, controlled by a handset.

Motor movers are powered by the caravan’s battery and are available with different power motors depending on the weight of the caravan.

Why use a motor mover?

Caravan motor movers allow you to easily manoeuvre a caravan into position, whether that be into a driveway, storage or touring pitch, or even hitching up. If you can’t or don’t want to push or pull your caravan in a space using your car, a motor mover will move the caravan into position.

Motor movers also allow you to move a caravan towards the car when hitching up, as well as helping to precisely align a wheel lock receptor to simplify inserting a wheel lock barrel.

Whilst caravan motor movers can’t be described as an essential piece of equipment, they can make life a lot easier – they can save you having to rely on precision-manoeuvring with your car, struggling to manhandle the caravan, and needing the guidance of another person. For tight spaces and heavier caravans they’re especially useful.

What to consider:

• As a general rule you can expect to pay around £1000 for a motor mover depending on the make. Less expensive devices may have a less powerful motor, which may be reflected in performance if using in wet or cold condition.

• The mover you choose will depend on the weight of your caravan and whether it is single-axle or twin-axle. Each motor mover will detail the working loads they can handle. If you expect to have to move your caravan up a steep incline you’ll need a motor mover with capacity to do that.

• The weight of a motor mover needs to be subtracted from the payload of the caravan, so you need to be conscious of your payload allowance if using a motor mover. Find out more about caravan towing weights.

• Motor movers are either manual or motorised. Manual devices use a hand operated lever whilst motorised have 12-volt motors which move the mover’s rollers to make contact with the tyre. Electrical motor movers have the advantage of not requiring any manual effort, though are generally more expensive. Remember to find out how the motor mover works if the motor fails.

• Most motorised motor movers will require a well-charged 85Ah battery to operate.

• To avoid interference with the functioning of the spare wheel carrier or jacking brackets, a motor mover should be positioned in front of the axle. Getting the motor mover is fitted by a professional will avoid any problems.

Remember to read and follow manufacturer’s instructions and perform regular maintenance checks.  

For more in-depth advice, The Camping and Caravanning Club have a useful fact sheet available here.

Caravan Security Devices

There are a number of security devices on the market which can help deter a thief and protect your caravan or motorhome.

• Look for the Sold Secure badge when purchasing a security device – this is the industry standard which tests and approves security products. The Sold Secure logo provides gold, silver and bronze ratings. Wheel locks can obtain a diamond rating.
• Products can also be approved by Thatcham, or by European bodies such as TUV and SCM.
• There are hundreds of caravan security devices on the market, with some being better than others. As with most things you generally get what you pay for so do some research before buying to check if a product has been independently tested or reviewed.

Caravan Security Products

Hitch locks

• As well as being a visual deterrent to thieves, hitch locks fit over the towing hitch and assembly fixing bolts to prevent your caravan being towed away by a thief’s vehicle.  

• You should look for a hitch lock that is made from heavy steel and make sure that it covers the hitch fixing bolts. It should also be noted that whilst a hitch lock does give a reasonable level of protection, it is wise to use one in conjunction with other security devices.

• Hitch locks should not be fitted during transit as it may cause problems for the Emergency Services.

• Some insurance companies will require that a hitch lock and wheel clamp to be fitted to a caravan as a condition of your policy.

Wheel clamps

• Wheel clamps work in a similar way to hitch locks and are quite often required as the minimum form of security by caravan insurers. These fit over the wheels to prevent them from rotating and will prevent the caravan from being towed away.

• Some clamps leave the unit’s wheel nuts exposed meaning the clamp can be removed by removing the wheel, so it might be worth using locking wheel nuts alongside the clamp.

• Wheel clamps come in various sizes and not all are suitable for alloy wheels so make sure you get the right type and size for your caravan.

• Remember to consider the strength of the material the device is made of and the lock. A wheel clamp made of thick high-grade steel is worthless if secured by a cheap lock that can be defeated in a minute.

Wheel stands/winter wheels

• Wheels can be taken off your caravan whilst in storage and replaced with wheel stands. This should make it more difficult for a thief to drive off with your unit. However, make sure you check your insurance policy – if it stipulates the use of a wheel clamp of wheel lock, using wheel stands would invalidate your insurance.

Security posts

• Security posts are concreted into the ground and used to anchor the caravan to the spot with a heavy duty chain and padlock.

• For maximum protection the posts need to be set in concrete and have an internal locking mechanism, as padlocks can be vulnerable. Some posts have towballs on top so the caravan hitch can be locked on top, but in general most posts will just physically stop the removal of the caravan.

Miscellaneous locks

• Corner steady locks allow the corner steady legs to be locked in the down position. They are easy to fit, relatively cheap, and are a good addition to an existing basic security system.

• For motorhomes, steering wheel locks are a good visual deterrent.
  

• Caravan and motorhome door locks are not generally very robust security and can be supplemented with additional locks or fitted with a more secure locking mechanism. There are also devices that bolt onto the body of the caravan and swing across the door to protect the door lock.

• Remember to make sure that you are still able to easily exit the vehicle in an emergency.

Caravan alarms

• From small alarms which can be fitted to doors and windows, to devices which have sensors to detect corner steady vibration or internal movement, there are a range of caravan alarms available to provide you with warning should someone attempt to steal or gain access to your caravan.

• Do your research to make sure the alarm is reliable – false alarms are a nuisance and risk being ignored if there is a genuine incident.

• Some caravan alarms can be connected to home alarm systems, and similarly, some can be linked up to a tracker device if you have one fitted.
• Immobilisers

• Caravan immobilisers bolt the wheels to the axle preventing the caravan from being towed away without first being unlocked.

CRiS

• The Caravan Registration and Identification Scheme (CRiS) is a national register for caravans in the UK and provides registration documents similar to the DVLA for motor vehicles as well as information relating to the history of the caravan.

• All UK caravans manufactured since 1992 are automatically given a CRiS number which is etched onto the body of the van. It is also possible to register pre-2002 caravans and imported caravans.

• In the event that a stolen caravan is recovered or sold on, a CRiS number will allow the owners to be contacted. When purchasing a used caravan, buyers are advised to contract CRiS to confirm that the unit has not been registered as stolen.

• Remember not to keep your registration documents in the caravan – store them in a safe place at home.

Caravan Marking

• The roof of your caravan can be marked with the last 6 digits of its CRiS number. It is also recommended that fixtures and fittings are marked with an ultra-violet pen. Microdot security systems are also available.

Tracking systems

• GPS Tracking devices are installed inside the caravan and linked to a central database. Should your caravan be stolen, your vehicle can then be tracked by the control centre, located and recovered.

• Some tracking systems will automatically send out an alert whilst a theft is in progress, and those with VHF signal technology work even if your vehicle has been moved into a container or stored underground.

• Having a tracking system installed can reduce your caravan insurance premium, but it is important to find out whether you are required to get it professionally installed. Most require a Thatcham or Sold Secure approved tracking system. 

• Whilst these systems can be pricey they seem to provide good results. Leading manufacturers include Phantom and Tracker.

And finally…

Whilst no product can guarantee that your caravan won’t be stolen, security devices will help to deter or at least slow down a thief. Fitting more than one security measure is worth considering.

When your caravan is in storage it is worth removing personal items and leaving the cupboards open so the thief can see there’s nothing of value inside. You might also want to remove the unit cushions, which will not only keep them dry but dramatically reduce the saleability of the caravan in the event of theft.

If the worst happens and your unit is stolen notify the police, your insurance company and CRiS. The police will need as full a description, your CRiS or chassis number, any other serial numbers and identifying marks or features. Make sure you have recorded these and stored them in a safe place. It’s also worth taking some photos that can be used in the event of theft.

Read this post on our website 

Search for a CaSSOA accredited storage site here 

Home Security

With the summer now upon us, at some point it’s likely we’ll be leaving our homes unattended whilst we go away on holiday. Getting away should be an enjoyable and relaxing experience, not spoilt by worrying about the risk of burglary.

We’ve probably all asked ourselves “Did I shut that window” or “Did I switch the alarm on” at some point, so with the help of The Crime Prevention Website, here is a checklist of things to do before you head off on holiday. 

With around 60% of all burglaries taking place when no-one’s at home, these tips may help to prevent a break in whilst you’re away.

·         Let a trusted neighbour or friends know that you’ll be away. Leave your contact details, a spare set of keys and the PIN for your alarm.

·         Cancel the papers and any other regular deliveries.

·         If you have an alarm, let them know you’ll be away and who to contact in case of emergency.

·         If you’re going away for an extended period, use the Royal Mail’s Keepsafe service. They’ll hold your mail for up to 2 months.

Ask a friend or neighbour to do some of these:

·         Draw the curtains daily

·         Switch lights on and off, or use a timer switch

·         Water plants

·         Take in the mail

·         Leave one of their cars on your driveway

Secure and lock away the following:

·         Garden and DIY tools – especially ladders which could be used to aid access.

·         Sheds, outbuildings and garage

·         Garden furniture and barbeques

·         All doors, windows and gates

·         Remove items of value in view from your car if you’re leaving it at home, and put car keys in a safe place away from the front door

·         Remove all keys from all locks and put them in a safe place. Tell your key holders where you’ve put them

·         If you have a safe, use it to store valuable jewellery, documents and other valuables including wills, house deeds, and credit cards you’re not taking with you

·         Large items of value like computers or paintings should be hidden from view.

Additional things to consider:

·         Turn off the gas and water supply if you’re going to be away from a long time

·         Check the expiry dates for car, home and holiday insurance, road tax and MOT. You don’t want it to expire whilst you’re away

·         Don’t leave an answer machine message which indicates that you’re away on holiday

·         Unplug all electrical items which don’t need to be on

·         Check that outdoor security lights are working

·         Mark valuable property so that it can be identified if stolen

·         Carry out a Home Security Assessment to identify areas of your home where you may need to improve security

Having ticked off all the items on this checklist all that’s left to do is hitch up the caravan and head out onto the open road.

If you’re having a break from touring and leaving your caravan behind, check our guide to Caravan Security.

Happy Holidays!

Read this on our website

Secure Caravan Storage - Our Survey Process

CaSSOA Accreditation – Our stamp of Approval for Secure Caravan Storage 

All our caravan storage sites have been comprehensively surveyed by an independent surveyor to give you peace of mind that your caravan will be stored safely.

We know how important your caravan is to you, so we take the necessary steps to ensure that our sites are upholding our standards and keeping your vehicle as secure as possible.

CaSSOA offers three levels of accreditation for storage site owners; Bronze, Silver and Gold, with awards based on a number of factors including security features and on-site facilities. Accreditation is based on a mandatory survey which is required every 5 years to ensure that standards are being maintained.

Our experienced risk surveyor will visit each site personally to check site security (perimeter fencing, access control, exit/entry system, CCTV, alarms, fire protection) and on-site facilities. Each category will attract points, and the more points received, the higher the award level attained.

Don’t take the risk of storing your caravan at an uncertified site. CaSSOA sites are committed to maintaining secure storage standards and actively working towards our pledge to reduce caravan theft.

Click here to find a CaSSOA accredited storage site near you and have the assurance that the site has been independently assessed and meets the benchmark standards required for secure storage that stands out from the rest.

Summer Caravan Care

With summer approaching and the weather improving it’s more than likely that you’ll be wanting to spend more time out and about in your caravan or motorhome.

If your vehicle has been in storage over the winter months, or just not in use for a month or two, there are some important maintenance checks that ought to be carried out before departing for your next trip. The last thing you’d want is to be left without electricity because a quick equipment check was skipped before you left.

Basic checks

A few basic checks carried out prior to departure can help to ensure a trouble free getaway:

Tyres 

Make sure that tyres on both your caravan and tow car are at the correct pressure, and that they are not cracked or damaged. Under inflated tyres can lead to poor vehicle handling and also require more fuel to maintain the same speed.

Battery

Some older models are prone to power leak so it’s best to double check your battery is fully charged.

Smoke Alarm & carbon monoxide detector

Check that these are working and replace if necessary.

Breakaway cable & fastenings

A visual check will ensure that both are working correctly. It is also worthwhile checking the leads and pulls that are used to tow your caravan to check for any damage that could potentials weaken the connection during your journey.

Door & window latches

Check to ensure that seals have not deteriorated whilst in storage and that latches are fully operational.

Jockey wheel & handbrake

Test to make sure that both are functioning properly. Check for corrosion, wear and tear and corrosion.

Internal appliances

Check that gas and electrical connections are working properly, and that the fridge, cooker and heater all work.

Electrics

Check that brake lights, indicators, reverse lights, parking lights and side lights are all working, clean and free from mud and grime.

These checks needn't be time consuming and may ensure you can enjoy your holiday without any surprises! All that’s left to do is make sure your caravan insurance is up to date, stock up with food and water and enjoy your getaway!

Caravan Scams

Whether you’re looking to buy or sell a caravan, don’t fall foul of pesky fraudsters. Here’s our roundup of some frequent caravan scams.

Scams when selling a caravan

• You receive either an email or phone call from someone saying they’re from a finance company. They claim that they have potential buyers who have already been cleared for credit on the caravan and are ready to buythe caravan. They then go on to say that they can put you in touch with this buyer but only at a cost which is payable immediately. This is usually around £70-80. Needless to say that these buyers don’t exist and in giving your card details, the scammers can then use your information at a later date for fraudulent purchases.

• You receive an email from the fraudster claiming to be someone interested in buying your caravan. They agree to buy the caravan and ask for a home address they can send a cheque to. They will also tell you that they are planning to ship the caravan abroad and that the shipping company will collect the caravan. You receive a cheque which is an amount significantly more than the price which was agreed. Following this, the ‘buyer’ will send an email apologising for the cheque mistake, explaining that the amount included payment for the shipping company. They ask you to bank the cheque anyway, but electronically transfer the amount meant for the shipping company. Having transferred the money, their cheque doesn’t clear and you are out of pocket. The lesson here is that you should never release any money or your caravan until any payments have cleared into your bank account.

Scams when buying a caravan

• You are looking to buy a caravan and browsing internet adverts. You settle upon an ad that you like the look of at an absolutely amazing price. You don’t want to miss out on this great deal and contact the seller who tells you that they have already had a lot of interest and a number of viewings arranged. They tell you that if you are willing to pay a deposit over the phone by credit/debit card, they will reserve the caravan for you. Little do you know that the caravan you want to buy does not exist, and the advert you’ve seen is just photos from an old advert. Not only do you lose the deposit you’ve paid over the phone, but your details can then be used on bigger fraudulent purchases.
• You see an online advert for an amazing deal on a caravan you just can’t miss out on. When you contact the seller, they advise that they are away on holiday/business at the moment, but you can still purchase the caravan using the website you’ve seen the advert on as an intermediary. You will then receive and invoice, claiming to be from the website and you will be told that your payment will be held by them until you’ve viewed the caravan when the seller returns from their trip. Upon receiving the invoice, you make payment – unknowingly sending your money directly to fraudster for a caravan that doesn’t exist. Caravan advert websites don’t offer this ‘holding’ service and the bank details on the invoice are for the fraudster who will now disappear with your money.
• After browsing online, you come across an amazing deal and contact the seller of the caravan for more information. You arrange a viewing but the seller wants to make sure that you are serious about making the purchase, and to prove your ability to pay ask you to transfer the funds to a friend or family member via Moneygram then send them the receipt as proof. In sending the receipt, you will be sending the fraudster all the information they need to get hold of that money.
• You find an amazing, not to be missed deal for a caravan on eBay and get in touch with the seller for more information. Given that you can absolutely not miss out on this caravan you agree a price and the seller says that they will deliver the caravan to you after you have made payment to them via PayPal. When you’ve made payment, they will immediately withdraw the money and you will never hear from them again.
Whilst eBay and PayPal have increased their security and instances like these are less frequent, there are still many highly skilled fraudsters who will have no problem in getting past security and identity checks.
The lesson behind all of these scams is that if an offer sounds too good to be true, it usually is. Always buy from a reputable source, and never pay for anything upfront.
Many thanks to Josh Garrod for initially highlighting these scams on . More info can be found here