Winterise your Motorhome, Caravan or Campervan V’s Getting on and using it !
As winter approaches, the discussions in the leisure industry are around draining down your vehicles and getting them ready for storage which are important but why not take a different approach and get on and use it !
Instead of covering up your leisure vehicle and putting it to bed for the winter, why not make the most of it . You may even find it is more economical than heating your home. If you venture to warmer climates it definetly will be. Always be mindful of road conditions and check weather forecasts before driving.
Be Impulsive
It is much easier to book sites in the winter months and most sites have nice hardstanding pitches & heated shower blocks . The winter is a great time to explore new areas and destinations that you are not quite sure about. Sites offer great discounts in the winter so you can check things out before you commit to returning on a summer holiday. During the winter you are more likely to use external resources such as electricity. Choosing a campsite with electrical hook-ups can help save some worry when your caravan batteries become low. Hooking your caravan up to the mains with a power cable will also mean you will be able to keep your caravan warm and toasty throughout your stay, which not only makes it far more comfortable but also helps protect your caravan from frost damage. Also a caravan or motorhome is far cheaper than heating your home. You may begin to agree that best way to ‘winterise’ your leisure vehicle is to keep using it throughout the colder months, so why not keep your engines running !
Visit Family & Friends
With everybody having such busy lifes the winter months are sometimes an easier time to catch up with family and freinds. Using your leisure vehicle is a great excuse to catch up with people but still have your own space to enjoy your time away. Either stay on nearby sites or you may even decide to park up in a freinds garden or driveway which is a cheaper option . Freinds are always happy to accomadate your leisure vehicles as they dont have to go to the trouble of making up spares rooms !
Think Of Different Activities On A Winter Break
When the weather is good on your summer adventures you tend to sit outside for aslong as you can cooking outside on your portable BBQ’s enjoying the kids play games in the fresh air or paddling in the streams.
On winter breaks you can go to show’s , watch films , go to sports centres .
Plan your winter getaways around the many Christmas markets. These are festive events that typically take place in the weeks leading up to Christmas where they are known for their charming and cozy atmosphere. Christmas markets are made up of numerous stalls and booths where vendors sell a variety of goods. These can include handmade crafts, ornaments, decorations, gifts, and seasonal foods. One of the highlights of Christmas markets is the delicious food and drinks. You can find traditional holiday treats such as roasted chestnuts, gingerbread cookies, sausages, and hot mulled wine known as Glühwein. The markets are usually adorned with festive decorations, including twinkling lights, Christmas trees, and seasonal ornaments. Christmas markets are designed to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Visitors can stroll through the markets, enjoying the sights, sounds, and smells of the holiday season.
Winter breaks are also a great time to re visit some of your favouite summer spots, it is really interesting to return out of season when there are no crowds or queues. You can walk into resturants without booking . You can walk on uncrowded beaches & beutiful coastal paths and still enjoy some lovely winter days.
There are lots of caravan spares and accessories available to aid your winter caravan or motorhome trips such as the Dometic winter covers. These covers are designed to help maintain proper operating temperatures for refrigerators in colder weather and protect them from the elements.
If your caravan or motorhome is parked up for winter they also allow proper ventilation while keeping unwanted guests out. Always refer to your specific refrigerator model's documentation for any manufacturer recommendations or specifications to ensure you order the correct item for your fridge. To find the correct Dometic spare part, please click this link.
Caravan & Motorhome Winter Care
Draining down a touring caravan is an important procedure to follow when preparing your caravan for winter storage or before a long period of inactivity. Water pipes are vulnerable to freezing in cold temperatures; this can result in cracks or even bursts.This winter draindown process helps prevent damage to the plumbing system due to freezing temperatures. Failing to do this can lead to expensive repairs in the spring. Thoroughly clean both the interior and exterior of your caravan or motorhome. Remove all perishable items from the refrigerator and cupboards to prevent mold and unpleasant odors.
Periodically check on your caravan or motorhome throughout the winter to ensure that everything remains in good condition. Look for signs of leaks, pest infestations, or other issues. Secure the caravan or motorhome against theft by using wheel clamps or hitch locks. Remove valuables from the vehicle.
Refer to your caravan or motorhome owner's manual for any specific winterization instructions or recommendations provided by the manufacturer. Additionally, if you have specific appliances or systems, such as heating or air conditioning units, follow any guidelines for winter storage outlined in their respective manuals.
Winter Chassis & Towing Essentials
When it comes to chassis and towing parts for caravans, there are several essential components and accessories that play a crucial role in ensuring safe and efficient towing. Some are very handy in winter monthsHere are some key items you might consider.
A jockey wheel is a retractable wheel mounted to the front of the caravan or trailer. It helps in maneuvering the caravan when it's not hitched to the towing vehicle.
Wheel chocks are wedges placed under the caravan's wheels to prevent it from rolling when parked. They are especially useful when setting up or unhitching the caravan.
Leveling blocks help in creating a level surface for your caravan when parked on uneven terrain. They are placed under the wheels to achieve a stable and level position.
Towing mirrors extend your field of vision, helping you see beyond the width of the caravan. This is crucial for safe towing, allowing you to see vehicles and obstacles behind and beside the caravan.
A breakaway cable is a safety feature that activates the caravan's brakes if it becomes detached from the towing vehicle. It's a legal requirement in many places and enhances towing safety.
Caravan jacks and ramps are useful for leveling and stabilizing the caravan when parked. They can also be helpful for maintenance tasks.
Gas Fittings
Cold weather may mean you'll use more gas for heating and cooking. Regularly check your gas levels and replenish them to avoid running out. Ensure you have the right fittings if travelling abroad this winter.
To ensure a safe and comfortable winter caravanning experience, always prioritize the maintenance of your vehicle. Investing in quality spare parts and regular check-ups not only extends the life of your caravan but also promises peace of mind during your travels. Safe travels and enjoy working out wether to winterise your caravan or motorhome V’s getting on and using it .
