Our top tips for campervan winter storage

How to look after your campervan in winter and what to remember if you're not using it regularly.

With it being that time of year, we understand not everybody enjoys camping in the colder weather. Darker mornings, darker evenings and everything else that comes with winter that isn't for everyone - and that's okay.

So for those who find themselves parking the van up on the driveway, winterising your campervan should be your next step. There are a few crucial things to remember when it comes to storing your campervan in winter, all of which will ensure it is still in tip-top condition the next time you want to use it.

Check out our top tips below for campervan winter storage.

1. Drain the water tank
   It's really important to drain down the van's internal water system before you stop using it. That's because if water is left in the tank, and then freezes, it can expand and cause cracks in the pipework and therefore your water system will leak the next time you pump water through. 
   
   
2. Empty the fridge and cupboards
   It may sound obvious, but ensure your camper is empty of all food and drink, not least because you'll come back to a unrecognisable mess if you forget, but also because you want your fridge aroma-free the next time you want to pop your milk and eggs in it. And far be it from us to remind you, but you definitely don't want to attract rodents to your campervan, as they won't stop just at your leftovers! Prop your fridge door open using the latch to air it while it's switched off.
   
   
3. Turn off your gas taps
   Make sure your on-board gas supply is turned off at the cylinder in the rear gas locker. Run the remaining gas through the grill, hob or oven, and air the van out for a few minutes afterward to dispel the gas. Detach the gas cylinder if required and store it somewhere safe. Turn off your interior gas taps.
   
   
4. Remove any bedding, clothing and soft furnishings
   The laundry items you regularly store in the van could become musty and even damp if you don't remove them for a while. Take them out and give them a good airing before storing them away somewhere dry.
   
   
5. Give it a good wash
   A clean van is a happy van. Give the van a thorough once over, cleaning all the paintwork, alloy wheels, and roof to remove as much dirt and road grime as possible. You'll be grateful for it later, especially if you're able to cover your van for the period you won't be using it (see below).
   Dry the van thoroughly and inspect your work. Just a little bird lime can cause you grief if left.
   
   
6. Cover the van
   Vans parked in one location for any great length of time will accumulate grime and get dirty simply from being sat exposed to the elements. If you're able to, invest in a good bespoke vehicle cover to help keep leaf debris, dirt and water streaks from forming on your van's paintwork. This will also carry the added benefit of keeping your solar panel in good condition, if you have one. Just remember though, that means it won't be charging your battery (see below).
   If it's not possible to cover the van, try to ensure it's stored away from trees and that you've closed all the blinds or curtains, to guard against UV fade of the interior.
   
   
7. Charge the battery
   The leisure battery, and the vehicle battery, will need to be maintained if they're not in regular use or being topped up by a solar panel. So if you're planning to winterise your campervan for anything longer than a fortnight, we'd recommend placing the van on charge using the electric hook-up and an adapter to your home's electrics. Charging the leisure battery this way will also help to pass through a trickle charge to the vehicle battery, keeping both in good order. If left for long periods, minor draw on the vehicle and leisure batteries as well as the ambient conditions can lead to battery sulphation, which in a lot of cases cannot be reversed.
   
   
8. Think of your tyres
   It's not often considered, but if left for long periods of time, tyres can develop flat spots through sitting in contact with the ground. It's good practice to periodically shift your van's position if the tyres are likely to be stationary for weeks at a time. Wheel covers can also be worth considering as they'll help prevent UV and weather damage.
   
   

If you follow these simple steps you'll be well on the way to making sure your campervan is ready and in top condition for when you decided to wake it from hibernation. 

Read more about campervan care here
And check out our other user guides here