Preparing Your Caravan for the Winter Months

As the touring season winds down and temperatures start to drop, it’s important to prepare your caravan properly for the colder months ahead. Whether you’re planning to store it away until spring or enjoy a few crisp winter weekends, taking the time to get your caravan winter-ready will protect your investment and save you from costly repairs later on. 

At Wandahome, we’ve helped thousands of caravanners care for their vehicles all year round. Here are our top expert tips on how to prepare your caravan for the winter months, keeping it safe, dry, and ready for your next adventure. 

1. Drain Down Your Water System 

One of the most important steps in winter caravan care is draining the water system completely. Any leftover water can freeze and expand, leading to cracked pipes, damaged pumps, or broken taps. 

Open all taps, including shower and external outlets, and leave them in the open position. 

Drain the toilet flush tank and cassette, ensuring no water remains. 

Use a drain-down kit or compressed air to remove any trapped water from the system. 

If you’re unsure, our Wandahome service team can perform a full winterisation service to ensure everything is properly emptied and safe. 

2. Protect the Exterior 

The UK’s winter weather can be harsh on caravan exteriors. Give your caravan a good wash before storage, removing dirt, road salt, and debris that can cause corrosion. 

Apply a protective wax coat to the bodywork to shield it from moisture. 

Clean windows, seals, and skylights, checking for any cracks or worn rubber. 

Consider using a breathable caravan cover to keep your caravan clean while preventing condensation build-up. 

Avoid completely sealing vents, proper airflow is key to preventing damp. 

3. Check Tyres and Move Periodically 

Tyres can develop flat spots if your caravan is parked for a long time in one position. Inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure and move the caravan slightly every few weeks to prevent flat areas forming. 

Alternatively, use axle stands or wheel savers if your caravan will be stationary all winter. Don’t forget to check the torque on wheel nuts before your first spring trip. 

4. Care for the Battery 

Cold weather can drain leisure batteries quickly. If possible, remove the battery and store it somewhere dry and frost-free, topping up the charge every few weeks. If you prefer to keep it connected, use a smart charger or solar panel to maintain battery health during storage. 

It’s also worth switching off any unnecessary electrical systems and checking cables for signs of corrosion or wear. 

5. Prevent Damp and Condensation 

Condensation is one of the most common winter caravan problems. Moisture build-up can lead to mould, odours, and damage to soft furnishings. 

• Leave cupboard doors slightly open to encourage air circulation. 
• Use moisture traps or dehumidifiers inside the caravan. 
• Lift cushions and mattresses off the floor to prevent damp patches forming. 

A little airflow goes a long way in protecting your interior throughout the colder months. 

6. Secure and Store Safely 

Choose a safe, level location for winter storage, ideally under cover or at a secure storage facility. Before locking up: 

• Remove valuables and perishables. 
• Leave the fridge door slightly open to prevent mould. 
• Ensure gas cylinders are disconnected and stored safely. 
• Check all windows, skylights, and doors are sealed but not over-tightened. 

If your caravan is stored outdoors, face it slightly nose-down to allow rainwater to drain away easily. 

7. Look After the Interior 

Give your interior a deep clean before winter. Vacuum carpets, wipe down all surfaces, and clean upholstery. This prevents odours and deters pests. For extra peace of mind, place silica gel sachets or natural repellents like cedar blocks inside drawers and cupboards. 

A clean, dry caravan not only stays in better condition but also makes for a much easier start to the next touring season. 

8. Book a Professional Winter Service 

If you’d rather leave it to the experts, Wandahome’s servicing department offers professional caravan winterisation packages. Our trained technicians can check your seals, electrics, heating, and plumbing to ensure everything is safe, drained, and ready for storage. 

It’s the easiest way to protect your caravan investment and enjoy total peace of mind until spring. 

Winter Preparation Checklist 

Here’s a quick printable list of things to tick off before you store your caravan this winter: 

• Drain all water tanks and pipes 
• Empty and clean toilet cassette 
• Clean and wax the exterior 
• Check tyres and adjust pressures 
• Remove or charge battery 
• Leave vents and cupboards open for airflow 
• Fit moisture traps or dehumidifier 
• Disconnect and store gas cylinders 
• Remove food and personal items 
• Leave fridge door open 
• Use a breathable cover if stored outdoors 

Print this list and keep it in your caravan or glovebox for future seasons. 

Prepare with Confidence at Wandahome 

Whether you’re storing your caravan for winter or planning cold-weather getaways, Wandahome has everything you need to stay prepared. From winter accessories and cleaning products to professional servicing, our expert team is here to help. 

Visit our servicing department or drop by our dealership to book your winter caravan check today and make sure your home on wheels is ready for whatever the British weather brings.