1. Why Is It Important to Winterise Your Caravan?

If your caravan is going to remain unused during winter, a few straightforward preparations can help prevent expensive repairs and make it easier to get back on the road when the weather improves.

Cold temperatures are a particular concern because water left inside pipes, taps, pumps or water heaters can freeze and expand. This can crack components, damage connections and lead to leaks when the system is used again.

Moisture can also build up inside a caravan that has been closed for several months. Poor ventilation, damp upholstery and water ingress can contribute to condensation, mould and unpleasant smells.

2. Where Should You Store Your Caravan Over Winter?

Where you store your caravan can make a difference to how well it is protected throughout winter. Some owners keep their caravan at home, while others use a dedicated caravan storage facility.

Dedicated Caravan Storage

A purpose-built storage site may offer controlled access, perimeter security, CCTV and other measures to help protect your caravan. Check the facilities in person and ask about access arrangements, security requirements and whether electrical hook-up is available for battery maintenance.

Storage facilities may have specific rules about gas cylinders, covers, servicing and visiting your caravan during the winter. Check these before booking a space.

Storing Your Caravan at Home

If you have enough space, storing your caravan at home can make it easier to inspect periodically. Choose a suitable, stable parking area and consider where rainwater will drain. Avoid positioning the caravan directly beneath trees where falling branches, leaves and bird droppings may cause problems.

Tell Your Insurer

Check your caravan insurance policy for any requirements relating to winter storage, security devices, battery-powered alarms and periods when the caravan is left unattended. If you change your storage location, make sure your insurer has the correct information.

3. Clean and Inspect the Exterior

Give your caravan a thorough clean before putting it into storage. Dirt, road grime and organic growth can be harder to remove after months of exposure to winter weather. Cleaning also gives you a chance to spot damage that may need attention.

How to Prepare the Exterior

• Wash the bodywork: Use cleaning products designed for caravans and suitable soft cleaning equipment.
• Check windows and doors: Look for damaged seals, cracks and signs of water ingress.
• Inspect rooflights and vents: Check accessible seals and fittings for visible deterioration.
• Remove leaves and dirt: Clear debris from accessible areas where it could retain moisture.
• Inspect the chassis: If you have been touring on salted roads, clean accessible areas according to the manufacturer's guidance.
• Check exterior lights: Look for damaged lenses, loose fittings and visible deterioration.
• Check electrical connectors: Inspect the car-to-caravan plug for damage and keep it clean and dry.

Be Careful with Pressure Washers

A high-pressure washer can force water behind trim, seals and fittings, potentially causing damage. Use a gentle cleaning method and take particular care around windows, doors, rooflights, vents and repaired areas.

Avoid climbing onto the roof unless your caravan manufacturer confirms it is designed to support your weight. If roof cleaning or inspection requires working at height, use appropriate professional assistance.

Check for Damp Before Storage

Look for soft panels, discolouration, bubbling finishes, mould or persistent musty smells. These can indicate moisture problems that should be investigated before the caravan is left unused.

Do not simply cover up a suspected leak or assume that airing the caravan will solve it. Arrange a professional inspection if you suspect water ingress.

4. How to Drain Your Caravan Water System

Draining the water system is one of the most important parts of caravan winterisation. Water left in the system can freeze in cold weather, expand and damage plumbing components, taps, pumps or water heaters.

Do not assume that emptying the main water container is enough. Water may remain inside the caravan's pipes, internal tank, pump, shower, filters or water-heating equipment.

Step-by-Step Water System Drain-Down

1. Turn off the water supply. Disconnect the external water container or supply and switch off the pump as directed by your caravan handbook.
2. Switch off the water heater. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for safely shutting down the heating and hot-water system. Allow hot components to cool before draining them.
3. Open all taps. Open the hot and cold taps. For mixer taps, place the lever in the central position where appropriate so both sides can drain.
4. Open the drain valves. Open the designated drain points and remove any specified drain plugs. Keep removable plugs somewhere safe so they can be refitted in spring.
5. Drain the water heater. Use the manufacturer's procedure for your specific model. Some systems have a dedicated frost-protection or drain valve.
6. Empty the internal water tank. If your caravan has an onboard tank, drain it fully according to the handbook.
7. Drain the shower and showerhead. Remove the showerhead if appropriate, shake out trapped water and leave the hose positioned to drain.
8. Check the pump and filters. Follow the instructions for your particular pump and filter system. Remove and store filters if the manufacturer recommends it.
9. Empty external containers. Drain portable containers such as an Aquaroll and the waste-water container, then clean and dry them before storage.
10. Leave designated drain points open. Follow the handbook on which taps and valves should remain open during storage.

Do You Need to Drain the Water Heater?

Yes, where the manufacturer's winterisation procedure requires it. Water can remain inside the heater even when the rest of the system appears empty. Follow the instructions for your specific water heater and make sure the correct drain valve is operated.

Never operate a water heater when it is empty if the manufacturer prohibits this. Before using the system again in spring, follow the correct filling and commissioning procedure.

What About the Water Filter?

Some caravan water filters retain water and may need to be removed for winter storage. Check whether your filter is designed to be stored dry, whether its cartridge should be replaced and how the system should be sanitised before use again.

5. Prepare Your Caravan Toilet

If your caravan has a cassette toilet, it is important to empty and clean it before winter storage. Residual water in the flush system can freeze, while waste left in the cassette can lead to unpleasant smells and make cleaning more difficult.

How to Prepare the Toilet

• Empty the waste cassette at an appropriate disposal point.
• Rinse and clean the cassette according to the toilet manufacturer's instructions.
• Drain the flush-water tank or flush system where applicable.
• Remove any remaining water from accessible components as directed by the handbook.
• Clean the toilet bowl and surrounding area using compatible products.
• Clean and lubricate the cassette seals using a product recommended by the manufacturer.
• Follow the manufacturer's instructions on the position of the blade valve and any storage latches.

Do not use petroleum jelly, household oils or unsuitable cleaning products on toilet seals unless the manufacturer specifically recommends them. Incompatible products can damage rubber and other components.

6. Clean and Prepare the Interior

Once the water system is drained, give the inside of your caravan a thorough clean. Removing food, moisture and dirt helps reduce the risk of unpleasant smells, mould and pests during storage.

Clean the Kitchen and Fridge

• Remove all food, including items stored in cupboards and under seats.
• Wipe down kitchen surfaces, cupboards, drawers and accessible storage areas.
• Clean the fridge and freezer according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• Allow the fridge interior to dry thoroughly.
• Use the fridge's designated hold-open catch, where fitted, to leave the door slightly ajar during storage.
• Remove crumbs and rubbish that could attract pests.

Look After Cushions and Bedding

Vacuum cushions, mattresses and upholstery before storing the caravan. Where possible, remove bedding and soft furnishings and keep them somewhere clean and dry.

If cushions need to remain inside, follow the manufacturer's guidance. Raising or positioning removable cushions to improve airflow can help reduce the chance of mildew, particularly where cushions sit on solid seat bases.

Open Cupboards and Allow Air to Circulate

• Leave cupboard doors, wardrobes and internal lockers open where practical.
• Keep fixed beds open or raised only where the manufacturer's instructions permit this.
• Leave spring-loaded blinds in the recommended storage position to avoid putting unnecessary strain on their mechanisms.
• Keep the caravan's designed floor vents and ventilation openings clear.
• Make sure windows, external doors and rooflights are securely closed before leaving the caravan.

Prevent Condensation and Mould

Good ventilation is important, but it must be balanced with keeping the caravan secure and protected from rain. Use only the ventilation arrangements recommended by the manufacturer, and never leave windows or rooflights open in a way that could allow rain or unauthorised access.

Moisture absorbers may help manage humidity, but they will not repair a leak or replace ventilation. Check them periodically and follow their instructions. A small humidity monitor can also help you keep an eye on conditions inside the caravan.

7. How to Look After Your Leisure Battery

A leisure battery can lose charge while the caravan is not being used. Leaving it discharged for an extended period may permanently reduce its capacity or damage it, so battery care should form part of your winterisation routine.

Before Storing Your Battery

• Check the battery manufacturer's instructions for winter storage.
• Switch off electrical equipment and avoid leaving unnecessary devices on standby.
• Check whether alarms, trackers or other security equipment need a continuous power supply.
• Where appropriate, isolate or disconnect the battery using the approved procedure.
• If removing the battery, store it in a suitable location and charge it according to its manufacturer's guidance.
• If leaving the battery in the caravan, make arrangements to maintain its charge safely.

Battery requirements vary depending on whether your caravan has a lead-acid, AGM, gel or lithium battery. Charging methods and safe storage temperatures differ, so use the correct charger and follow the specific battery instructions.

Do not disconnect the battery without first considering whether doing so will disable your alarm, tracker or other security systems. If the battery must remain connected, arrange an appropriate way to maintain its charge.

8. Turn Off and Store Gas Safely

Before putting your caravan into storage, turn off the gas supply at the cylinder valves and follow the instructions supplied with your gas installation and regulator.

Check with your storage facility about its rules for gas cylinders. Some facilities require cylinders to be removed from the caravan during long-term storage.

Gas Safety Checklist

• Turn off the gas supply at the cylinder valves.
• Follow the regulator manufacturer's instructions when disconnecting any cylinder.
• Fit the appropriate protective caps or plugs where required.
• Store cylinders upright in a secure, well-ventilated location suitable for LPG cylinders.
• Keep cylinders away from heat, ignition sources and areas where gas could collect.
• Follow the storage site's rules and your gas supplier's guidance.

9. Protect Your Tyres and Running Gear

Caravan tyres can deteriorate while standing in one position for several months. Cold weather, sunlight, age and incorrect inflation can all affect their condition.

Before Winter Storage

• Inspect the tyres for cracks, cuts, bulges and signs of perishing.
• Check tyre pressures against the manufacturer's recommendations.
• Check the manufacturing date and seek professional advice if the tyres are ageing or their condition is uncertain.
• Keep tyres protected from unnecessary direct sunlight where practical.
• Make sure the caravan is parked on a suitable, stable surface.
• Follow the manufacturer's guidance for supporting the caravan during prolonged storage.

Some storage guidance recommends moving the wheels periodically or adjusting tyre pressures for long periods of standing. Only do this in accordance with the caravan and tyre manufacturers' instructions, and return pressures to the correct travelling settings before towing.

What About the Handbrake?

Some caravan storage guidance recommends leaving the handbrake off during extended storage to reduce the risk of brake components sticking. However, the correct approach depends on the caravan's design and the conditions where it is parked.

Follow your caravan manufacturer's instructions and make sure the caravan is securely immobilised before releasing the handbrake. Use suitable wheel chocks and any required security devices on a stable surface. Never leave the caravan unsecured on a slope.

10. Should You Cover Your Caravan Over Winter?

A suitable caravan cover can help protect the exterior from dirt and weather exposure while the caravan is stored. However, the type of cover and how it is fitted are important.

Choosing a Caravan Cover

• Choose a breathable cover: It should allow moisture to escape rather than trapping condensation against the bodywork.
• Check the fit: Use a cover designed for the size and shape of your caravan.
• Protect windows: Make sure the cover material and fitting method are suitable for delicate caravan windows.
• Start with a clean caravan: Dirt trapped between the cover and bodywork can cause scratches as the cover moves.
• Secure it properly: Follow the manufacturer's instructions to reduce movement in windy conditions.
• Inspect it regularly: Check for damage, loose straps, trapped moisture or rubbing against the caravan.

A cover is not essential for every caravan. If you choose not to use one, keeping the exterior clean, checking seals and inspecting the caravan periodically remain important.

Secure Your Caravan

Winter storage is also a good time to check your caravan's security arrangements. Use suitable security devices in line with your insurance requirements and the storage facility's rules.

• Fit an appropriate hitch lock and wheel clamp where required.
• Lock doors, windows, external lockers and garage compartments.
• Remove valuables and personal belongings.
• Check that alarms and trackers are working and have a suitable power supply.
• Keep a record of your caravan's identifying details and any security devices.
• Check your insurance policy for storage conditions and security requirements.

11. Your Complete Caravan Winterisation Checklist

Use this checklist before leaving your caravan unused for winter. Always follow your manufacturer's handbook for model-specific instructions, particularly for water systems, batteries, gas equipment and running gear.

Exterior and Storage

• Wash the exterior with suitable caravan cleaning products.
• Inspect bodywork, windows, doors, rooflights and seals.
• Check for signs of damp or water ingress and arrange repairs if needed.
• Clean away leaves, dirt and organic growth.
• Check tyres for damage, age and correct storage pressures.
• Choose a suitable storage location and check its rules.
• Fit an appropriate breathable cover if using one.
• Check hitch locks, wheel clamps and insurance requirements.

Water and Toilet

• Switch off the water supply and pump as directed.
• Drain the fresh-water tank and waste-water system.
• Open taps and drain valves according to the handbook.
• Drain the water heater using the manufacturer's procedure.
• Drain the shower, showerhead and accessible pipes.
• Empty portable water containers and allow them to dry.
• Remove or store water filters as recommended.
• Empty, clean and drain the toilet cassette and flush system.

Interior and Ventilation

• Remove all food and rubbish.
• Clean the kitchen, cupboards, fridge and freezer.
• Dry the fridge and leave its door ajar using the designated catch, where fitted.
• Clean and vacuum carpets, upholstery and storage areas.
• Remove bedding and store soft furnishings somewhere dry where practical.
• Position cushions to improve airflow, following the manufacturer's guidance.
• Leave cupboard doors open where practical.
• Keep designed ventilation openings clear.
• Use suitable moisture-control products if needed.

Battery, Gas and Security

• Turn off the gas supply and follow cylinder storage instructions.
• Switch off unnecessary electrical equipment.
• Prepare the leisure battery according to its manufacturer's guidance.
• Check that alarms and trackers have the power they need.
• Secure doors, windows, lockers and external hatches.
• Confirm all storage and insurance requirements are met.
• Record any repairs or servicing needed before the next trip.

12. Getting Your Caravan Ready for Spring

When the weather starts to improve and you are ready to tour again, do not simply reconnect everything and set off. Your caravan needs a careful check after months in storage.

Before Your First Trip

• Inspect the exterior for damage, leaks, loose trim or signs of pests.
• Check tyre condition and reset pressures to the correct travelling figures.
• Check the hitch, running gear, brakes and lights.
• Reconnect and charge the leisure battery as instructed.
• Refill the water system using the correct procedure and check for leaks.
• Clean and sanitise the water system according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• Check that the water heater and other appliances are ready to use before switching them on.
• Check the toilet, taps, shower and drainage.
• Check gas appliances and connections; arrange a qualified inspection if anything is damaged or you have concerns.
• Check the service history and arrange any overdue maintenance.
• Test security equipment and replace batteries where necessary.

If your caravan has been stored for several months, consider arranging a professional service before your first trip, particularly if its annual service is due or you noticed any problems before winter.

 

This guide provides general information and is not a substitute for your caravan manufacturer's instructions. Winterisation procedures vary between models and equipment. Always follow the relevant handbook, comply with storage and insurance requirements, and use suitably qualified professionals for safety-critical work.