You left your RV in storage, parked your boat at the marina, or secured your ATV after a weekend ride—only to come back and discover it’s gone. Few things feel more distressing than realizing your vehicle has been stolen. And like many owners, you may be wondering about the chances of finding a stolen vehicle. Unfortunately, theft is on the rise: more than one million vehicles were stolen in 2022 according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau.
Whether it’s an RV, boat, motorcycle, ATV, or jet ski, theft leaves owners feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you take the right steps—fast.
1. Call the Police Immediately
The first call should always be to law enforcement. Provide as much detail as you can, including:
- Make, model, year, and color of your RV, boat, or powersport vehicle
- VIN, hull ID number, or serial number
- License plate or registration info
- Where and when you last saw it
- Distinctive features (custom paint, decals, accessories, etc.)
- Any built-in tracking or security systems
Quick reporting is key. Vehicles reported stolen within the first 24 hours have much higher recovery rates, and the sooner the police have your information, the better your chances of finding your stolen vehicle. Make sure to obtain a copy of the police report—you’ll need it for insurance.
2. Contact Your Insurance Company
Once you’ve filed a police report, reach out to your insurance provider. Be ready to give them your policy number and the police report details.
Keep in mind:
- Insurers may hold claims for 48–72 hours in case the vehicle is recovered quickly.
- Coverage depends on your policy. Comprehensive coverage is what protects against theft. Liability-only policies will not cover a stolen RV, boat, or ATV.
3. Notify the DMV (or Marine Board)
For RVs, contact your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). For boats and watercraft, notify the state marine board or equivalent authority. This prevents fraudulent registration or resale of your stolen property.
If the thief commits crimes using your vehicle, you want the record to clearly show it was stolen.
4. File Secondary Claims for Stolen Items
Did the thief make off with personal belongings as well—like fishing gear from your boat, helmets from your ATV, or electronics from your RV? Your vehicle policy won’t usually cover these. Instead, you may need to file a claim under your homeowners or renters insurance for personal property stolen along with your vehicle.
5. Contact Your Lender or Bank
If your RV, boat, or powersport vehicle is leased or financed, notify your lender right away. They have a financial stake in the property and will need to be updated on the theft.
If documents, keys, or personal information were taken with the vehicle, keep a close eye on your bank accounts for potential fraud.
6. Keep Looking
Don’t underestimate the power of keeping your eyes open. Thieves sometimes abandon stolen vehicles after a short time. Check nearby storage lots, marinas, or even neighborhood streets. Posting in local online community groups can also help—sometimes a neighbor spots what you missed.
How to Prevent RV, Boat, and Powersport Theft
Theft is never the owner’s fault—but there are steps you can take to reduce your risk:
- Use Anti-Theft Devices – Steering wheel locks, wheel boots, GPS trackers, and alarms deter criminals. Many insurers offer discounts for using them.
- Park Smart – Choose well-lit, secure storage lots or marinas. Avoid leaving vehicles in isolated areas for long stretches.
- Lock & Secure Everything – Always lock doors, cabins, and storage compartments. Remove keys—even if you’re stepping away briefly.
- Keep Valuables Out of Sight – Electronics, gear, and personal items left visible can draw attention.
- Stay Updated on Recalls/Security Fixes – Some vehicles, like certain Kia and Hyundai models, have well-known vulnerabilities. RVs, boats, and ATVs sometimes face similar risks, so stay informed.
Final Thoughts
Whether it’s your RV, boat, or powersport vehicle, theft can feel like a nightmare. But by acting quickly, working with authorities, and having the right coverage, you can improve the chances of finding a stolen vehicle and minimize the financial fallout.
At Happy Camper Insurance, we specialize in policies that protect more than just cars. From RVs and boats to ATVs and motorcycles, we’ll help you find coverage that keeps your adventures secure—on the road, on the water, or off the trail.
Contact Happy Camper Insurance today to learn more about theft protection and coverage options.
