Winterproofing Your Camper Van: Tips for Inside and Out

Not hitting the road this winter? Then it’s time to give your camper a proper send-off into its winter nap! How do you handle the battery and gas? What needs a good clean, and what’s the ideal tire pressure?

To make sure your trusty travel buddy survives the cold unscathed, we’ve got all the essential tips – from battery care to tire pressure. Let’s keep your camper in top shape, even during downtime.

Keep Moisture Out of Your Mobile Home Interior

You don’t need to go full-on detail mode inside your camper, but some things are non-negotiable. Clear out anything that could start to smell or attract critters. Empty out all food supplies, vacuum up every crumb, and wipe down surfaces. Don’t forget the fridge – defrost, clean, dry, and leave it cracked open to ventilate. Open up all cabinet doors so air can flow and prevent dampness. Protect cushions and mattresses by propping them up or laying them on a breathable base. Take out any moisture-prone stuff like textiles or even toilet paper for the winter.

Exterior and water

PROTECT YOUR CAMPER’S OUTSIDE

Now’s the time for a deep clean! Don’t skip the roof, undercarriage, or wheel arches. Touch up small scratches or paint chips to prevent rust from creeping in. A wax polish isn’t just for show – it protects your camper’s body from the elements. Give the rubber seals some TLC with a care product to keep them flexible through the cold months.

FREEZE-PROOF YOUR SYSTEM

This one’s critical: Drain the boiler, water tank, and gray water tank completely. Leave the tank open to dry out. Empty the water lines and showerhead to avoid frost damage. Open the taps so any remaining moisture can escape, then switch off the water pump. Use a cleaning agent for the drinking water system to keep it hygienic. And don’t forget the vehicle itself – check your antifreeze, coolant, and windshield washer fluid levels to make sure they’re winter-ready.

Save Energy and Care for Your Battery Electricity

Turn off all electrical devices and cut off the power and gas supply. Disconnect the onboard battery to prevent slow discharge – but double-check that everything’s switched off first! Always remove the negative terminal first, then the positive. If your camper will be parked in a cold place, take the battery out and store it at room temperature. The same goes for any electronics like hair dryers or mini fridges you won’t be using.

Safety First Gas

Close all gas valves and disconnect the gas bottle from the system. Make sure the bottle is sealed with a safety cap. Depending on where your camper is stored, the gas bottle can stay in the compartment or needs to be kept in a secure location. Check local regulations to see what’s allowed.

Keep Your Camper in Shape Parking

Park your camper on level ground and put it in gear, but release the handbrake to avoid it sticking. Pump up your tires by about 0.5 bar to reduce wear and counter natural air loss. If you can, cover your camper with a breathable cover to prevent condensation (skip the plastic tarp!). And for extra care, check on your camper now and then – air it out and give the battery a charge every few months if you didn’t remove it.
Your camper is more than a vehicle – it’s your adventure buddy. Take care of it this winter, and it’ll be ready to roll come spring!