How to make your caravan or motorhome winter-proof

Winter is just around the corner and it's time to put your caravan or motorhome into winter storage. To ensure that your vehicle gets through the cold season and is ready to go again in the spring, we have put together the most important steps for you.

1. Exterior cleaning and care

• Clean thoroughly: Wash your caravan or motorhome thoroughly to remove dirt, salt and deposits that could damage paint and surfaces.
• Check seals: Check window and door seals for damage and care for them with special rubber care products.
• Use protective tarpaulin: This is where opinions differ. Campers' opinions vary widely. While some cover their vehicle with a breathable tarpaulin to protect it from the elements, others take the view that both a caravan and a motorhome are built for outdoor use and do not need additional protection. The ideal solution is a hall in which the motorhome or caravan can be stored.

2. Prepare the interior

• Cleaning: Vacuum upholstery, carpets and floors thoroughly and clean all surfaces.
• Upholstery and mattresses: Store upholstery and mattresses in a dry place or place them upright in the vehicle to prevent mold growth.
• Cabinets and refrigerator: Empty all cupboards and the refrigerator. Leave the refrigerator door open to prevent odors and mold.
• Moisture absorber: Place a moisture absorber inside the vehicle to prevent condensation and mold growth.

3. Empty the water system

• Fresh water and waste water tanks: Empty the tanks completely and flush them to avoid limescale deposits and frost damage.
• Boiler and pipes: Allow all pipes and the boiler to drain completely. If necessary, use compressed air to remove any remaining water from the pipes. A little trick: blow up a balloon and pull it over the tap. The air escaping from the balloon will help to empty the pipes. Repeat the process a few times.
• Toilet facilities: Empty and clean the waste tank. Leave all valves open here too.

4. Electrics and batteries

• Battery care: Fully charge the battery and remove it if possible. Store the battery in a dry, frost-free place and recharge it regularly.
• Turn off the power: Disconnect all power connections to avoid a short circuit. Remove fuses if necessary.

5. Tires and chassis

• Increase air pressure: Increase the tire pressure slightly to avoid flat spots.
• Jack up the vehicle: If possible, place the vehicle on stands to relieve the load on the tires.
• Release the handbrake: Release the handbrake and secure the vehicle with wheel chocks to prevent the brakes from rusting.

6. Protection against pests

• Close openings: Cover vents and other entrances with covers or screens to keep mice and other pests out.
• Do not store food: Remove all food scraps to avoid attracting pests.
• Use fragrances: Place sachets of lavender, cloves or other natural scents that deter pests.

7. Location selection

• Dry parking space: If possible, park your vehicle in a covered, well-ventilated garage or shed.
• Shady spot: If the vehicle is outdoors, choose a shady location to minimize UV damage.
• Adjust the inclination: Park the vehicle at a slight angle so that rainwater can drain off.

8. Documentation and accessories

• Document maintenance: Make note of all the work you have done so that you are well prepared in the spring.
• Storing accessories: Store accessories such as gas bottles, awnings or camping furniture dry and protected.

With these measures, you can make your caravan or motorhome as winter-proof as possible. This will not only protect it from frost damage and mold, but will also ensure that you can start the new camping season in spring without any problems! This list is not guaranteed to be complete.