Wheel clamps – visible security for your caravan
Wheel clamps are one of the most recognisable caravan security accessories — highly visible, mechanical, and deliberately awkward for anyone who shouldn’t be moving your caravan.
They’re not about being clever or high-tech. Their value lies in being obvious, physical, and time-consuming to defeat.
This page explains what wheel clamps do, how they’re used, and how to choose one that suits your caravan without turning security into a chore.
What is a wheel clamp?
A wheel clamp is a physical security device that locks around a caravan wheel, preventing it from rotating.
Once fitted, the caravan cannot be towed away without:
Removing the clamp
Damaging the wheel
Or spending significant time making noise and attracting attention
That delay — and visibility — is the point.
Why wheel clamps are effective
Most caravan thefts are opportunistic. Thieves tend to avoid anything that:
Takes time
Requires specialist tools
Is clearly visible from a distance
A wheel clamp:
Signals that the caravan is protected
Forces a thief to deal with a physical obstacle
Encourages them to move on to an easier target
It doesn’t make a caravan impossible to steal — but it makes your caravan less appealing than the next one.
Wheel clamps and insurance
Many caravan insurance policies:
Require a wheel clamp
Specify that it must be approved (often Sold Secure or equivalent)
Expect it to be used when the caravan is stored or unattended
Always check policy wording carefully — using a clamp that doesn’t meet requirements can cause problems if you ever need to make a claim.
Common types of caravan wheel clamps
External wheel clamps
These lock around the outside of the wheel and are clearly visible when fitted.
They’re popular because they:
Act as a strong visual deterrent
Are easy to check at a glance
Suit both steel and alloy wheels
You’ll often see examples from brands like Milenco and Bulldog, which are commonly recognised by insurers.
Wheel-specific clamps
Some clamps are designed to match specific wheel sizes or styles.
These can offer:
A more precise fit
Reduced chance of movement
Better compatibility with certain alloy wheels
The trade-off is reduced flexibility if you change caravans in the future.
Alloy wheels vs steel wheels
Not all clamps suit all wheels.
When choosing a wheel clamp, check:
Approved wheel sizes (diameter and width)
Compatibility with alloy wheels
Clearance around spokes or trims
Using the wrong clamp can lead to poor fit or cosmetic damage.
When should a wheel clamp be used?
Most caravanners fit wheel clamps:
When the caravan is stored at home
In storage compounds
When left unattended for extended periods
Some also use them on site for extra peace of mind, especially on rallies or stopovers.
Using a wheel clamp properly
Good practice includes:
Fitting the clamp tightly but without forcing it
Ensuring locking points are fully engaged
Checking it periodically during storage
Removing it before moving the caravan (sounds obvious — but it happens)
Wheel clamps work best when they’re used consistently, not just “now and then”.
🔧 TalkWrench Tip
Fit the wheel clamp before you leave the caravan for storage, not once you’re already tired and rushing to go home.
Security habits work best when they’re part of your normal shutdown routine — not an afterthought.
Wheel clamps as part of layered security
Wheel clamps work best alongside:
Hitch locks
Secure storage locations
Good visibility and lighting
Sensible parking orientation
Security is rarely about one perfect device — it’s about layers that together make theft inconvenient and risky.
The takeaway
Wheel clamps are simple, visible, and reassuring.
They don’t rely on batteries, signals, or subscriptions — just solid metal and time. Used consistently, they form one of the most effective first lines of defence for caravan security.
If a clamp makes a thief hesitate, look elsewhere, or walk away entirely, it’s already done its job.
Some more security devices can be found in Hitch Locks
Make sure you stay safe with these Alarms