Prepare your motorhome or campervan for winter
If you're looking to store your motorhome or campervan away for the winter we've got helpful tips to make sure your vehicle is in great condition come the spring.
While some love touring all year round, now that winter is on its way, many others will ask, “How should I prepare my motorhome or campervan for winter storage?”
If your motorhome or campervan is not going to be used for some time, we’d first recommend removing all valuables and keeping them safe inside your home. Empty the fridge and cupboards of all perishable items and then give it a good clean inside and out, which will help minimise the tasks you’ll need to do come the spring. Ensure you leave the fridge and cupboard doors ajar, which will circulate air and help dissipate any odours. Do check that the vents are not blocked but that the grills or mesh are still intact to prevent any vermin or insects from getting in.
Make sure that you flush the waste water tanks and/or pipes and drain the water system, this includes the water heater and toilet flush. Leaving the taps open and removing the water filters will help avoid the risk of freeze cracking.
Aside from the security systems that you might have in place, switch off the electrical circuits. If you’re leaving the battery inside your vehicle, make sure that it’s fully charged. If your outfit is kept topped up by a solar panel, ensure this is cleaned. If the battery is not required for the security system and you’re storing the vehicle away from your home, you could consider removing the battery and then periodically charging it, with a suitable charger. It’s important to remember to turn off the gas supply at the cylinders, and it’s worth noting that some storage compounds may require the cylinders to be removed altogether.
Give the rubber seals on the windows and door a little lubricant, either with a silicone spray or wipe them down with a little olive oil. You also might want to make a list of all the things that you've done, so that you know what you have to address when the days start to lengthen again, and it's time to bring the rig back to life.
Purchasing a good, breathable cover will help protect the vehicle from the elements and also reduce extra spring cleaning.
Get the security devices activated, or if your vehicle doesn’t have any, consider getting them fitted, subject to any restrictions in your storage location. If you’re able to, it is worth checking on your vehicle every few weeks whilst it’s in storage and giving it a good airing to minimise the condensation. Try and move it slightly so that the tyres aren’t loaded at the same point and leave the handbrake off to avoid the brakes jamming.
Winter is the best time to sort out any minor repairs and refurbishments, so make sure you book your spring servicing before the workshops get booked up. You could also get around to the jobs that you’ve been putting off during the touring season, like cleaning the awning. Have a look at what you like to take away with you when you’re on the road and see if it’s possible to minimise it for better fuel economy or improved payload capacity. With the holiday season around the corner, any missing essentials could be added to your Christmas wishlist.
Updated November 2024