As the days are getting shorter and the weather worsens it’s clear that winter is upon us. And if you’re the owner of a caravan, it’s time to prepare for Jack Frost. If you don’t look after your caravan during winter then you could be in for costly repairs next summer. Here are a few helpful hints and tips to ensure that you beat the worst that winter has to offer.

Preparing the interior

The first thing to do when storing your caravan for winter, is to remove all of the contents including the cushions, bedding and curtains, and if possible, store them in your home. If left inside the caravan, there is the chance that they could become damp and stain, making them unusable the following year.

You should always thoroughly clean the inside of your caravan including all appliances, ensuring that there is no food or debris left inside. You don’t want any little visitors taking up a new home for hibernation! It’s a good idea to clean the fridge and freezer with bicarbonate of soda, and leave the door open to avoid pressure build up and the possibility of a stagnant smell and mould build up. Leave all internal cupboard doors open to allow air to circulate.

If you have a hot and cold water system in the caravan, drain it by opening all taps and removing the drain plug. Then ensure that the water filter is removed, ready to be replaced next year. Drain all water tanks, leaving plugs out to avoid unwanted smells, corrosion and risk of pipes cracking when frozen.

When it comes to the leisure battery, remove it and keep the charge topped up every 5-6 weeks so it doesn’t go flat.

Finally, close and lock all windows and vents and close the blinds or curtains for extra security.

External checks

Thoroughly clean the outside of the caravan before you put it into storage and once dry either spray it with an overwintering fluid or cover it with a breathable caravan cover. Overwintering fluid provides a protective coat and prevents any excess build up of grime ready for the summer session. A breathable cover, which can be bought from most good camping and caravanning stores, protects the caravan from the elements.

Jacking up the caravan up and putting it on to axle stands ensures that pressure is removed from the tyres, increasing their lifespan by preventing flat spots from forming. The last thing you’d want when eventually coming to use your caravan again is to discover you need a new set of tyres!

Wash the awning and ensure it’s completely dried before storing it away, preferably in the house, for winter.

Throughout winter, ensure that periodic inspections are carried out, to ensure that your caravan is safe and secure and that nothing has happened. By caring for your caravan and maintaining it not only when it’s in full use, but also when it’s resting, you’re much less likely to run into problems.

If you’re looking to buy a new or used caravan, search for a reputable dealer online, ensuring you opt for one which can offer caravan finance should you require funds to make your purchase.