There are many alarms for sale from many manufacturers but they may offer different levels of protection. When looking for an alarm for your motorhome, shop around to see which ones include the key features outlined below.

If you want the best protection, look for devices that are Thatcham CAT 1 approved. The benefit of a CAT 1 alarm is that it is combined with an engine immobiliser and has perimeter and ignition detection as well as a battery back-up power supply. These devices will have been tested to make sure they are effective in preventing the theft of a motorhome. They are also more likely to qualify you for a discount off your motorhome insurance, so check with your insurer.

The motorhome alarm you choose should have sensors on the driver and passenger doors as well as the habitation door to ensure the alarm sounds if any of these doors are opened. Some alarms will also be set off if the bonnet is lifted, deterring thieves from trying to disconnect the battery in an attempt to deactivate the alarm.

Passive Infra-Red (PIR) sensors inside the motorhome will detect any movement from anyone who has gain access to the motorhome and set off the alarm, protecting your belongings. Some alarms have the functionality to turn off this feature as a 'Night' or 'Pet' mode so you can still use the alarm at night whilst you're asleep and during the day if you leave your pets inside unattended. Some devices may have ultrasonic volumetric sensors that can also detect movement within the vehicle. This kind of motion sensor if often more expensive to manufacture, so you may pay more for an alarm with ultrasonic volumetric sensors than you would for one with PIR sensors, but both methods are effective in preventing theft from motorhomes.

Most alarms will come with remote controls so the alarm can be activated and deactivated at a distance. This can be useful if you accidently set off the alarm yourself.

Other features your motorhome alarm may come with include a panic alarm facility so you can set the alarm off yourself should you become a victim of a burglary whilst in the motorhome. The alarm should disturb the would-be thief and alert any neighbouring campers.

If you need any advice on which alarm is best suited to you, ask your local dealership. Your insurance company will also be able to tell you whether the alarm you have will get you a discount off your motorhome insurance premium. It may be that your insurance company will insist on a Thatcham Cat 1 approved or Thatcham Cat 2 to 1 upgrade system to ensure you meet with their requirements.