How to winterize your caravan or motorhome

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

1. Exterior cleaning and maintenance

• 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 treat them with special rubber care products.
• Use a protective sheet: Opinions differ widely on this point. While some cover their vehicle with a breathable protective cover to shield it from the elements, others maintain that both caravans and motorhomes are built for outdoor use and don't require additional protection. The ideal solution, they say, is to store the caravan or motorhome in a hall or shed.

2. Prepare the interior

• Cleaning: Vacuum upholstery, carpets and floors thoroughly and clean all surfaces.
• Cushions and mattresses: Store cushions and mattresses in a dry place or stand 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 indoors to prevent condensation and mold growth.

3. Empty the water system

• Fresh water and wastewater tanks: Empty the tanks completely and rinse them to prevent limescale buildup and frost damage.
• Boiler and pipes: Drain all pipes and the boiler completely. If necessary, use compressed air to remove any remaining water from the pipes. A helpful trick: Inflate a balloon and pull it over the tap. The escaping air will help empty the pipes. Repeat this process a few times.
• Toilet facilities: Empty and clean the waste tank. Leave all valves open.

4. Electrical system 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 electrical connections to prevent a short circuit. Pull fuses if necessary.

5. Tires and chassis

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

6. Protection against pests

• Close openings: Seal ventilation grilles and other access points with covers or grilles to keep mice and other pests out.
• Do not store food items: Remove all food scraps to avoid attracting pests.
• Use fragrances: Place lavender sachets, cloves, or other natural fragrances around to repel pests.

7. Site selection

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

8. Documentation and accessories

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

These measures will help you optimally winterize your caravan or motorhome. This will not only protect it from frost damage and mold, but also ensure that you can start the new camping season without any problems in the spring! This list is not exhaustive.