Your winter wisdom: The results of our caravan safety poll
As the days lengthen and some of you look forward to the first tours of 2026, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the collective expertise of our community. In our last newsletter, we asked you to share your essential "end-of-season" and “start of season” rituals.
The response was fantastic, proving once again that Club members are among the most diligent and prepared tourers on the road. Whether you are a newcomer or a seasoned pro, these member-contributed tips are a masterclass in protecting your pride and joy.
The winter lockdown: Lessons learned
For those who store their caravans over the colder months, the message was loud and clear: water is the enemy. The most frequent piece of advice was to ensure a total "drain down" of all water pipes, heaters, and toilet flushes to prevent frost damage.
Other member-favourite tips for a worry-free winter included:
- The deep clean: Sanitising all surfaces - especially in the kitchen and washroom - to prevent mould and odours.
- Ventilation is vital: Ensuring all vents remain unblocked and placing moisture absorbers or dehumidifiers throughout the interior.
- The "pop-in" policy: If your outfit is in professional storage, don't leave it lonely. Members recommend a monthly check-in to ensure everything remains secure and dry, particularly during a cold snap.
- Seal care: A quick clean and lubrication of window seal rubbers prevents them from sticking or cracking.
Springing into action: Getting 'season-ready'
March is usually the month of anticipation. As you prepare to hitch up for the first time this year, our poll revealed some ingenious ways to ensure your first outing is a success rather than a stress.
The "shakedown" stay. One of the most popular suggestions was the local single-night stay. By booking a site close to home, you can test every system in a real-world setting. If a pump fails or a seal leaks, it’s much easier to manage when you aren’t 200 miles away on your main holiday.
The critical checklist:
- The refresh: "Air out" the interior thoroughly and run a steriliser through your water system before refilling.
- Utility check: Verify the operation of all appliances on both gas and electric.
- Roadworthiness: Check your tyre pressures and condition. Crucially, don’t forget to check your wheel nut torques before your first journey.
- The annual service: It may seem obvious, but members agreed that a professional annual service is the single best investment for peace of mind.
Looking ahead
Your feedback drives this newsletter. Based on your requests, we are already digging into the details for future features on towing weights and ratios, as well as approved security.
In the meantime, if you’re looking for more technical guidance, the advice and training section of the Club website is packed with expert resources to help you stay safe on the road.
Happy (and safe) touring for the 2026 season!
Published February 2026