Get your caravan winter-ready: A Comprehensive Guide

The sun may still be shinning around Australia and the thought of the long cold nights far from our minds, but the chilly breeze of winter will soon settle in, which means it time to give your beloved caravan the care it deserves to ensure it remains in top-notch condition during the colder months. So, grab your toolkit and a cuppa, because we’re diving into some essential tips to get your caravan winter-ready, Aussie style!

Step One – Empty

First things first, it’s time for a caravan clear-out. Bid farewell to summer’s remnants by emptying out your caravan of all clothing, food, bedding, and anything else that might attract unwanted critters. Don’t forget to remove gas cylinders and close any gas fittings for safety.

Step Two – Interior Clean

With the clutter out of the way, it’s time to give your caravan a thorough clean. Start by cleaning and defrosting the fridge freezer, wiping down interior surfaces, and vacuuming away any pesky crumbs. Pay special attention to windows, toilets, and moisture-prone areas – nobody wants to return to a caravan with unpleasant odours or mould growth! Consider using moisture absorbers and leaving the fridge and freezer open to promote proper ventilation.

This is a great time to give the interior some well-deserved love and remove any grime or stains with Stain Scrambler, our heavy duty fabric cleaning solution. Now that the inside is empty and clean it’s the perfect opportunity to protect interior surfaces against any spills, stains and smudges that come with life on the road. Protecting the inside of your van has never been easier thanks to our interior trio, Ridgy Didge All-Purpose vinyl protector, Roo Skin Shield leather protector and Spill Dodger fabric protector.

Step Three – Component Check

It’s now time to give your caravan a once-over to ensure everything is shipshape for the winter months. Check the water filter, window seals, towing electrics, batteries, and awnings. If your awning or other canvas areas have any marks or stains give them the once over with Outback Oomph Canvas Cleaner. Don’t forget to drain toilets and water tanks, clean pipes, and close blinds to prevent sun damage.

Step Four – Exterior Clean

Time to tackle the exterior. Open up the awning, give it a good clean and dry, and consider investing in a canvas protector like our Bush Bash Canvas & Tent Protector to keep it in top condition for the next season. Give your van a thorough clean using caravan safe products like our Suds ‘n Slide Caravan Wash & Wax –  if you haven’t already this is a great time to apply paint protection to keep it looking spick and span and protect the vans clear coat.

Step Five – Storage

When it comes to storage, choose a safe and secure area that’s protected from the elements. Level ground and protection from trees are key considerations to minimise wear and tear. Consider using a breathable caravan cover to prevent mould growth and provide extra protection while in storage, and don’t forget to secure the hitch and wheels with locks or clamps to deter potential thieves.

4 Seasons Ultimate Protection Caravan Cover

Step Six – Winter Maintenance

Last but not least, don’t skimp on maintenance! Consider turning your wheels every two months to prevent flat spots, check wheel bearings and lubricate components to ensure smooth operation and peace of mind during the winter months.

With these handy tips and a little TLC, your caravan will be ready to weather the winter chill and emerge ready for new adventures come springtime. So, get cracking – your caravan will thank you for it!