Hitchlock test

Thanks to complex electronic immobilisers and alarms, crooks are finding car theft harder than ever. But caravans and trailers are still vulnerable to thieves.

Thousands are stolen every year, so securing yours with a hitchlock when left unattended is crucial. The best devices can be used while the vehicle and trailer are connected - essential for caravanners who may stop off at motorway services, a popular spot for thieves. However, for safety reasons, you should never drive with the hitchlock in place, as it will interfere with the trailer's movement in corners.

Make sure you get the right piece of kit, too. Caravans usually come with Al-Ko or Albe hitches, and many locks are designed to fit these, although others are available. Small trailer hitches are generally much simpler devices. Our prices include VAT but not carriage, which will vary with mail order supplier.

The test

Each hitchlock was marked for price and ease of fitting before independent security expert Giles Verdon tackled them. Thieves need speed and silence, so prolonged, noisy attacks scored more points.

Verdict

If you have an Al-Ko hitch, the Full Stop Saracen is priced well enough to consider. But for more heavyweight protection, the Bulldog Mini and Milenco Light are worth looking at. However, the Milenco is nearly £10 cheaper, so eases into our number one slot.

1. Milenco Light
2. Bulldog Mini
3. Fullstop Saracen