1. Give Your Caravan a Thorough Clean

Before storing your caravan, give it a complete wash inside and out.

Exterior Cleaning

Remove:

• Mud and road grime
• Salt and coastal residue
• Tree sap and bird droppings
• Red dust from outback trips

Pay special attention to:

• Underbody components
• Suspension and chassis
• Stone guards
• Wheel arches
• Roof and solar panels

Leaving contaminants on the caravan for long periods can damage paintwork, seals, coatings, and alloy components.

Interior Cleaning

Inside the caravan:

• Empty the fridge and pantry
• Remove all food items
• Vacuum floors and storage compartments
• Wipe down benches and upholstery
• Leave cupboards slightly open for airflow

A clean caravan helps prevent mould, pests, and unpleasant smells over winter.

2. Drain the Water System Completely

One of the biggest mistakes owners make is leaving water sitting in tanks and plumbing systems for months.

Drain:

• Fresh water tanks
• Grey water tanks
• Hot water system
• Water lines and taps

Run all taps briefly to clear remaining water from the pipes.

If your caravan has a water filter, remove and replace it before your next trip.

For caravans fitted with diesel hot water systems or combination units, follow the manufacturer’s shutdown procedure carefully.

3. Protect Your Battery System

Modern off road caravans rely heavily on lithium battery systems, solar charging, and advanced power management systems.

If your caravan uses premium systems such as:

• REDARC
• Enerdrive
• EcoFlow

…it’s important to store the batteries correctly.

Battery Storage Tips

• Fully charge batteries before storage
• Turn off unnecessary loads
• Isolate the battery system if recommended
• Keep solar connected if stored outdoors
• Check battery voltage monthly

Lithium batteries generally prefer being stored partially charged rather than completely flat.

If your caravan is stored under cover without solar input, it’s worth checking the battery state every few weeks.

4. Check Tyres and Suspension

Tyres can develop flat spots and lose pressure during long storage periods.

Before Storage:

• Inflate tyres to recommended pressures
• Inspect for cuts or uneven wear
• Move the caravan occasionally if possible

For off road caravans fitted with independent suspension systems such as:

• Cruisemaster
• Tough Dog

…it’s also worth visually checking:

• Airbags
• Shock absorbers
• Trailing arms
• Brake lines
• Hydraulic brake components

If the caravan has been used on corrugated roads recently, inspect all mounting bolts and underbody components before storage.

5. Service the Brakes and Bearings

Moisture and inactivity can affect braking systems over winter.

Before storing:

• Wash mud and dirt from brakes
• Check electric brake wiring
• Inspect hydraulic brake lines
• Grease suspension points if applicable

If your caravan has travelled significant kilometres recently, winter can also be a good time to organise:

• Wheel bearing servicing
• Brake adjustments
• General maintenance inspections

6. Prevent Mould and Moisture

Moisture is one of the biggest enemies of caravans in storage.

To Reduce Moisture Build-Up:

• Crack roof hatches slightly if stored undercover
• Use moisture absorbers
• Avoid storing wet towels or bedding inside
• Ensure mattresses and cushions can breathe

Mould can develop surprisingly quickly during cold, damp months — especially in enclosed caravans.

7. Disconnect Gas Bottles Safely

Turn off gas bottles completely and inspect:

• Regulators
• Hoses
• Connections

If storing for extended periods:

• Remove portable gas appliances
• Ensure bottles are secured upright
• Check gas certification dates

8. Protect Against Rodents and Pests

Mice and insects love stored caravans during winter.

To help prevent infestations:

• Remove all food
• Seal obvious entry points
• Check external hatches
• Avoid storing pet food inside
• Use rodent deterrents if needed

Inspect wiring and soft furnishings regularly during storage periods.

9. Cover and Protect Your Caravan

If your caravan is stored outdoors:

• Use a breathable caravan cover
• Avoid cheap plastic tarps that trap moisture
• Protect tyres from UV exposure

If stored indoors:

• Ensure good ventilation
• Keep the area dry
• Avoid parking directly on damp grass for long periods

10. Book a Pre-Season Service Before Your Next Trip

Before heading away again, it’s worth booking a professional inspection to ensure everything is road-trip ready.

A pre-season service can include:

• Brake testing
• Suspension inspection
• Battery health checks
• Solar system testing
• Water system sanitisation
• Wheel bearing inspections
• Electrical and charging checks

This is especially important for serious off road caravans that tackle corrugations, beach driving, and remote touring.

Final Thoughts

Proper winter storage helps protect your investment, reduce maintenance costs, and ensure your caravan is ready for your next adventure.

A few hours of preparation now can prevent:

• Flat batteries
• Water contamination
• Brake issues
• Tyre damage
• Mould and pest problems

Whether you own a hybrid caravan, camper trailer, or full off road touring caravan, looking after it during the off-season is one of the best ways to maximise reliability and longevity.

When adventure season returns, you’ll be ready to hitch up and head off with confidence.