Winter break without worries: How to optimally prepare your motorhome or caravan

How to make your motorhome or caravan winter-proof

The cold season is approaching, and for motorhome and caravan owners that means preparing their vehicles for winter. Proper winter storage protects your vehicle from damage caused by frost, moisture or pests. With these tips, it will stay in top condition so that you can get started in the spring without any problems.

The perfect parking space

• Dry and protected: Ideally, you should store your vehicle in a garage, under a carport or in a barn. These protect it from the elements such as snow or frost.
• Outdoor areas: If you park your vehicle outside, make sure you use a breathable cover that allows moisture to escape. Avoid plastic covers, as these can encourage the formation of condensation.
• Prepare the location: Remove leaves and dirt from under the vehicle to prevent waterlogging. Raise the vehicle slightly to ensure better air circulation.

Preparing the Interior

• Cleaning: Vacuum the interior thoroughly and wipe surfaces clean. This will prevent the formation of mold or unpleasant odors.
• Upholstery and textiles: Place upholstery and mattresses upright to ensure good air circulation. Alternatively, you can remove them from the vehicle.
• Refrigerator: Leave the refrigerator door open to prevent mold from forming. Make sure to remove all food.
• Dehumidification: Set up dehumidifiers or desiccants to reduce indoor humidity.

emptying the water system

• Drain completely: Allow all tanks, pipes and the boiler to drain completely. Otherwise frozen water can damage pipes and valves.
• Water pump: Turn off the water pump and open all taps so that even the last drops can drain away.
• Antifreeze: Optionally, you can use special antifreeze to prevent damage. However, be sure to flush the system thoroughly in the spring before using it again.

battery care

• Removal and storage: Remove the battery and store it in a dry, frost-free place. If this is not possible, connect it to a trickle charger.
• Maintenance: Check the charge level regularly to prevent deep discharge.

protect your tires

• Increase tire pressure: Increase the air pressure by 0.2 to 0.3 bar above the normal value to avoid flat spots.
• Movement: Occasionally move the vehicle slightly or use wheel chocks to prevent one-sided loading on the tires.

Protect outdoor areas

• Cleaning: Clean the bodywork thoroughly and apply wax to protect the paint.
• Seals: Care for door and window rubbers with special products so that they remain supple and do not tear.
• Gas bottles: Close the gas bottles or remove them completely if you do not use the vehicle for a long period of time.
• Ventilation: Make sure air can circulate to prevent mold growth.

protection against pests

• Remove food: Remove all food and packaging from the vehicle. They could attract mice or other animals.
• Close entry gaps: Check doors, windows and ventilation grilles. Close potential entrances for animals with suitable materials.
• Pest control: Place mouse repellents, lavender sachets or scented soap bars.

Regular check-ups

Visit your vehicle regularly during the winter break. Check the cover, the moisture level in the interior and the general condition. This way you can fix small problems immediately before they become bigger.

With these measures, your motorhome or caravan will remain well protected. Whether you store it on a farm, in a garage or outdoors - with the right preparation, you can enjoy the winter break without any worries and get started again in the spring.