Daily Mail journalists select and curate the products that feature on our site. If you make a purchase via links on this page we will earn commission – learn moreA recent surge in the theft of roof-mounted camping equipment such as TentBoxes has prompted police to issue a warning – but what can owners do to avoid becoming targets? Police in Cleveland and Cheshire have responded to several reports of rooftop tents being stolen from vehicles. TentBoxes, a brand of rooftop tent that clamps onto the roof bars of vans, cars and SUVs, have become increasingly popular thanks to its ability to turn vehicles into mini campervans. In 2024, content creator Jamie, of the @themacleanbrothers on Instagram, reported how his TentBox was stolen in the middle of the night by thieves who had managed to force open security nuts used to keep it secured. In a video post, he said: ‘They left without a trace. I use it a lot for different trips, including work and training. Absolutely gutted and it isn’t insured…’ And, in a statement issued by Cleveland Police in June, thieves in the New Marske and Saltburn areas of East Cleveland removed at least three boxes from car roofs and made off with them in a white Citroen C1, as reported by BBC News . A recent surge in the theft of roof-mounted camping equipment such as tents has prompted a warning from the police Content creator Jamie of the @themacleanbrothers on Instagram, reported how his TentBox was stolen in the middle of the night back in 2024 Later in July, Runcorn Police, a force based in Halton, Cheshire, issued a warning on Facebook, urging owners to take preventative measures after receiving multiple reports of ‘thefts and attempted thefts of roof mounted camping equipment’.On a post, it wrote: ‘We have been made aware of an incident where an individual has reportedly been taking pictures of a vehicle with a tent box on the roof in the early hours of this morning (11/07/2026).’Unfortunately with the summer holidays coming we see a rise in thefts and attempted thefts of roof mounted camping equipment.’Under the post, one user who goes by Carl wrote: ‘Mine was stolen in Weston Point, Runcorn.’ Another noted: ‘Tracker and alarm, but if they want it they’re going to take it unfortunately.’ However, the force went on to issue a range of tips to prevent the theft of the boxes, which can retail for as much as £2,200.To keep your TentBox safe, the first step is to store it in a shed or garage when not in use. If you must leave it on your vehicle, replace the standard mounting bolts with M8 locking security nuts to prevent theft. It could also be worth using a heavy-duty bike lock or steel cable to secure the tent frame to your vehicle’s main roof bars, or install tamper-proof bolts or lockable mounting brackets that require a unique key. TentBoxes – a portable rooftop tent that clamps onto the roof bars of vans, cars, and SUVs – have become the last trend for camping enthusiastsA wireless motion-triggered alarm mounted beneath the tent can also act as a deterrent by sounding a 113dB alarm if it’s tampered with.Bluetooth tracking devices, such as Apple’s AirTag, can also help owners locate stolen property if it remains within the Find My network. Android users may prefer Bluetooth trackers such as the Life360 Tile. Another tip issued by the police is to call your insurer right away to add the TentBox to your policy. Some insurers may treat it as a vehicle modification or an additional accessory. Concluding its statement, the force urged: ‘Please report anyone acting suspiciously on 101 or 999 if a theft is occurring.’ How to stop your tent box being stolen – the gadgets to buy… Apple AirTag (4-pack) Apple AirTags are popular for a reason – they can help you keep track of your things while travelling! While they might be a little more on the pricey side, they are a clever gadget you can use to track your luggage, bags and even your wallet or passport. Or, in this case, your tent box!£35.60 for single tag £64 Shop Tile Mate by Life360 Tile Mates can be attached to keys and suitcases – and your tent box – helping you keep track of your belongings.The Bluetooth trackers are the ideal solution for pesky thieves.Was £39.98 £33.98 Shop Wireless motion triggered alarm Buying a wireless motion-triggered alarm means you can be alerted if someone steals your tent box – a genius solution.One review on this item read: ‘Amazing product, works really well, no let down. Saved me a lot of money. Bought two, one for the middle of the camper and one for the front able to sensor sides and the back of the camper. Works perfect and it is really loud.’Was £24.99 £21.24 Shop