Essential winter checklist for caravans and campervans

As the days get shorter and the temperatures drop, many travellers will be parking up their caravans, motorhomes and campervans for a well-earned rest. But before you wave goodbye to your summer adventures, it’s worth taking a little time to prepare your vehicle for the colder months ahead.

Winter care might not sound exciting, but it can save you money and strain down the line - helping prevent damage, damp and battery issues, so your home-on-wheels is ready to roll when spring returns. Here’s how to give your pride and joy the TLC it deserves this winter.

Why winter care matters

Whether you own a compact campervan or a fully fitted motorhome, the colder months can be tough on leisure vehicles. Frost, damp and long periods of inactivity can lead to problems such as water damage, cracked seals or drained batteries.

Think of winter prep as putting your caravan into hibernation - the more care you take now, the smoother things will be when you wake it up for your next adventure. Plus, it’s a good opportunity to check for any small repairs before they turn into costly issues later on.

Step 1: Give it a good clean inside and out

Before storing your caravan or motorhome, start with a thorough clean. Not only will it look great, but you’ll also help prevent mould, mildew and unwanted smells.

Your pre-winter cleaning checklist:

• Wash the exterior with a specialist caravan or motorhome cleaner
• Rinse the roof and underbody to remove dirt and road salt
• Check seals around doors and windows for cracks or gaps
• Empty and clean the fridge, cupboards and storage areas
• Remove any food, bedding and soft furnishings to prevent damp or pests
• Open all cupboards and lockers slightly to allow air to circulate

If possible, give the interior a final once-over with a moisture-absorbing product to help keep humidity low through the colder months.

Step 2: Drain down and protect your water systems

One of the most important steps in winterising a caravan or campervan is draining down all water systems. Any water left in pipes, tanks or taps can freeze and cause cracks or leaks.

• Empty all water tanks and pipes completely
• Leave taps open in the middle position to prevent pressure build-up
• Add a little antifreeze to waste traps if recommended by the manufacturer
• Clean and drain the toilet cassette, leaving the valve open

If your motorhome has a hot water system, follow the specific manufacturer’s winterisation guide - it’s worth doing properly to avoid expensive repairs in spring.

Step 3: Keep an eye on your electrics and battery

Batteries can lose charge quickly in cold weather, especially if left idle for long periods. To avoid a flat battery come March:

• Disconnect your leisure battery and store it in a cool, dry place
• Recharge it every 4 to 6 weeks, or use a trickle charger if available
• Check that all electrical systems are off before storage
• If your vehicle is on a long-term site, visit occasionally to run the engine and recharge the system

It’s also a good time to test any alarms or security devices and make sure they’re fully functional.

Step 4: Tyre and body care

Your tyres carry the weight of your caravan or campervan all year round, so giving them a little attention before winter helps extend their lifespan.

• Check tyre pressure and adjust according to the manufacturer’s guidelines
• If storing for several months, move the vehicle occasionally to prevent flat spots
• Alternatively, use wheel supports or axle stands to take the weight off
• Inspect for cracks or signs of wear and tear

Don’t forget to apply a protective wax to your bodywork - this adds a layer of defence against frost and grime.

Step 5: Safe and secure storage

Where you store your caravan or motorhome can make all the difference. Ideally, it should be somewhere safe, dry and sheltered from the worst of the weather.

• Consider a dedicated caravan storage site with good security
• If parked at home, use a breathable cover to protect against frost and UV damage
• Check that your insurance is valid for storage at your chosen location
• Use wheel locks, hitch locks and security alarms for extra peace of mind

A few small precautions now can protect your investment and give you confidence it’s secure all winter long.

Step 6: Plan ahead for spring

Once your caravan, campervan or motorhome is safely stored, you can start dreaming about your next getaway.

Winter is a great time to make upgrades, whether that’s installing solar panels, updating your interior, or even upgrading your vehicle itself. If you’re thinking about making improvements or investing in a new model, a caravan loan from Novuna Personal Finance could help you spread the cost over affordable monthly repayments - so you’re ready for even more adventures next year.

A little prep goes a long way

A little care now can make a big difference later. Preparing your caravan, motorhome or campervan for winter helps protect its value, keeps it in great condition, and means fewer surprises when the open road calls again.

So, before you hang up your travel boots for the season, spend a few hours giving your vehicle the attention it deserves - you’ll thank yourself when spring arrives and everything is ready to roll.

Caravan winterisation FAQs

Do I need to cover my caravan or motorhome in winter?

Yes, but choose a breathable cover specifically designed for caravans or motorhomes. This prevents moisture from getting trapped, which can lead to damp or mould. Avoid using tarpaulins or non-breathable plastic sheets, as they can cause condensation to build up underneath.

Should I leave my caravan plugged in over winter?

It’s usually best to disconnect your leisure battery and recharge it every few weeks. Leaving your caravan or campervan constantly on hook-up can overcharge the battery or dry out the cells, unless you’re using a regulated trickle charger.

What’s the best way to stop damp in a caravan during winter?

Keep your caravan clean, dry and well ventilated. Use moisture traps, leave internal doors open, and remove soft furnishings if you can. A breathable cover and occasional air circulation go a long way to preventing damp.

Can I keep my campervan on the driveway over winter?

Yes, but make sure it’s parked on level ground and protected from frost and debris. Check your insurance policy covers home storage, and consider adding a wheel lock, hitch lock and alarm for extra security.

When should I start preparing my caravan for winter?

Ideally, begin as soon as your final trip of the season ends - usually in late autumn. This ensures you have enough time to clean, drain and dry everything before freezing temperatures arrive.