Bristol has become a hotspot for van life and campervan adventures. From countryside escapes to weekend trips down to Devon or Wales, more locals are enjoying the freedom that a campervan offers. But with this growing popularity, campervans in Bristol have also caught the attention of thieves. In recent years, van and campervan thefts have been on the rise — especially in urban areas like Bristol. Most of these crimes happen when the vehicle is left parked and unattended. That’s why upgrading your campervan door locks is one of the most effective ways to protect your pride and joy.
Van Life Is Booming — and So Are Thefts
There’s been a huge jump in campervan ownership across the UK, and Bristol is no exception. With its easy access to scenic getaways and a strong outdoor culture, campervans are everywhere in the city.
At the same time, police data from 2024 shows that around 11,273 vans were stolen across England, Wales, and Scotland — that’s 31 per day. Many of these thefts occurred in cities, with the Ford Transit being the most targeted model. Though specific figures for Bristol aren’t always published, local police have regularly warned about increased break-ins, especially in residential streets and poorly lit areas.
When Is Your Campervan at Risk in Bristol?
Most thefts happen when your campervan is left parked and empty — whether it’s outside your home in Bishopston, on a quiet street in Bedminster, or in a motorway car park on your way to Cornwall.
The reality is, thieves often look for easy targets. Upgrading your campervan door locks adds a layer of physical defence and acts as a visible deterrent. If it looks like too much effort, chances are they’ll move on.
Which Campervan Door Locks Should You Consider?
A popular and reliable option is the hook lock. This type of lock engages directly with the body of the van, making it much tougher to force open than a standard lock.
These locks can be fitted to the cab, rear, and side doors. There’s also the option to fit a cylinder cover to give a clean, neat finish that blends in nicely with the van. For Bristol campervan owners who park in public or residential areas, this added security can make a real difference.
Internal Operation: A Safer Option for Sleeping Campers
One concern for campervan owners is being able to operate the locks from inside — especially when sleeping overnight in places like M4 and M5 motorway service stations.
Thanks to innovation from Locks 4 Vans, we will soon be able to offer our customers versions of their most popular locks that work from both sides of the door. We’ve never been fans of solutions that risk locking someone inside the van — safety should always come first. But this new design looks like a well-thought-out option that can be easily released in case of an emergency. It’s a real game-changer for campervan owners, offering peace of mind whether you’re inside the van or away from it.
Final Thoughts: Why Campervan Door Locks Are Essential in Bristol
If you own a campervan in Bristol, fitting strong door locks is one of the smartest ways to protect it. With local crime rates showing an increase in van-related incidents, it’s more important than ever to take action.
Hook locks, especially those that allow internal operation, offer excellent protection against forced entry. They bring peace of mind when your van is parked on the street or left in storage while you plan your next trip.
We’ve already helped protect hundreds of campervans in and around Bristol, and we’re always happy to offer honest advice. Just get in touch — we’re here to help you choose the best solution for your van and your lifestyle.
Discover more essential security solutions for campervans in our detailed article here.
