As spring approaches and the weather warms up, it’s time to get your campervan ready for your first adventure of the season. While we’re always here with a 12 month vehicle and conversion warranty should anything go wrong, a little pre-trip TLC can make all the difference, ensuring your journey is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
1. Check Your Tyres
One of the most important areas to inspect before hitting the road is your tyres. If you’re new to campervan driving, you might not know that campervan tyres endure a lot more wear and tear than those of a regular car. Whether it’s the rugged terrain at your campsite or the added weight of your van, campervan tyres are put to the test.
If you’ve parked your campervan for the winter or it’s been sitting idle for some time, be sure to examine both the tyre walls and tread. Tyre walls can start to bulge or crack from sitting stationary too long, especially if exposed to direct sunlight. These issues can increase the risk of a blowout when you finally hit the road.
Don’t forget to check the tyre pressure, as this is a common issue for many drivers. And if you swapped your tyres for cold-weather ones, now’s the time to switch back to your regular set.
2. Book Your Annual Service (and MOT)
Before you embark on your first trip, it’s a good idea to schedule your annual engine service. Waiting until the last minute can make booking a service a hassle, especially if you rely on a local garage with limited availability. If your campervan requires an MOT, be sure to schedule that ahead of time as well to avoid any delays.
3. Check Your Leisure Systems & Lights
Your campervan isn’t just a car – it has several additional systems that require regular maintenance. These include your gas, electrical, heating, and water systems. It’s essential to check these systems annually, just like you would your engine. Keeping a record of any services or repairs can also be useful for future resale or insurance purposes.
Take the time to inspect rubber hoses for any signs of wear, and make sure your gas bottle is sufficiently full. Additionally, check your leisure battery’s charge level. If it’s running low, consider removing it and charging it with a suitable charger at home.
Don’t forget to scrub your solar panels to maximise their productivity!
4. Sterilize Your Water Systems and Containers
Even if you use your campervans water system regularly, it’s still a good idea to sterilise it at least once a year. To do this, you’ll need to:
- Drain the water system
- Flush it with a water purifier (like Puriclean or Milton tablets)
- Clean the wastewater tank
- Service your portable toilet (if applicable)
Once that’s done, treat yourself to a nice exterior wash – either by hand or at a car wash. A clean, sparkling campervan always adds a sense of pride and excitement for your upcoming trips.
5. Give Upholstery and Roofing a Thorough Check
Your campervan is a big investment, and like any home, it requires regular care. Check the condition of your upholstery to see if it needs more than just a quick clean. If a full valet is required, now’s the time to arrange it before the busy season hits.
Also, don’t forget to check the roof. Pop it up to inspect its condition, and take the opportunity to air out your van. Ensuring everything is in top shape now can save you headaches down the road.
6. Refresh Your Storage Space
Spring is the perfect time to go through your cupboards and lockers. Even if you checked for expired items before winter, it’s worth re-evaluating your storage. Are there any non-perishables you need to replenish? Is there anything you didn’t use last season that you might not need this year?
Taking the time to re-organize will help you maximize your storage and ensure you have everything you need for your travels.
7. Review Your Paperwork
Before you take off, make sure your paperwork is up to date. Check that your insurance and breakdown cover are renewed, and if you’re a member of any camping clubs (like the Camping and Caravanning Club or Caravan and Motorhome Club), confirm your membership is active. Don’t forget about any memberships like the National Trust if you plan on visiting their locations during your travels.
In Conclusion
While this may seem like a long checklist, most of these tasks are quick and easy to complete. By taking the time to prepare your campervan now, you’ll ensure that your vehicle is roadworthy and ready to provide the comfort and reliability you need for your first trip of the year.
So, get started today and get your campervan in tip-top shape for your spring adventures!
