Winter Wanderers: Caravan and Motorhome Club reveals how to prepare for a winter adventure
22/10/2026
From unpredictable weather to unexpected breakdowns, the Club shares what winter tourers should consider before taking to the road for a winter adventure – including why checking your insurance is essential
(22 October 2026) For many caravan, motorhome and campervan owners, the end of summer doesn't mean the end of the adventure. The Caravan and Motorhome Club says that Winter Wanderers are embracing the colder months both in the UK and Europe, seeking out quieter campsites, crisp countryside walks, dramatic coastal escapes and festive city breaks.
But winter touring comes with its own considerations. From changing weather and colder temperatures to the possibility of breakdowns or unexpected damage, leisure vehicle owners need to be prepared for a different set of challenges meaning outfit, insurance cover and breakdown cover are suitable for winter travel and should be part of those preparations.
Caravan and Motorhome Club research found that more than half of UK motorhome, campervan and caravan enthusiasts planned to take a winter break, demonstrating that for many owners, the touring season continues long after summer.
With around 50 Club and affiliated campsites remaining open throughout the autumn and winter months, the Caravan and Motorhome Club is encouraging owners to make the most of the opportunities on offer, while taking a few simple steps before setting off to help ensure they're ready for whatever winter brings.
Three things every Winter Wanderer should consider
- Ready for whatever the weather brings?
Winter weather can be unpredictable, with rain, ice, strong winds and shorter daylight hours all potentially affecting a journey.
Before setting off, owners should check the forecast and road conditions and, if necessary, allow additional time for their journey.
It is also worth checking insurance, breakdown arrangements and caravan cover, before travelling. Owners should make sure their cover is appropriate for their vehicle and planned use and understand any relevant terms, conditions and exclusions.
- Is your vehicle winter-ready?
A little preparation can make a big difference when temperatures drop.
Owners should check tyres, brakes, batteries, lights and heating systems before setting off, following manufacturer guidance and arranging professional checks where required.
Water systems should also be prepared for colder temperatures, while owners should make sure they have appropriate equipment and clothing for the conditions they are likely to encounter.
- What happens if the unexpected happens?
Even the best-planned winter adventure can encounter the unexpected, whether that's a breakdown, damage caused by severe weather or another incident on the road.
That's why owners should check their insurance before setting off rather than assuming their existing arrangements automatically cover every situation.
Policies can differ, so owners should read their terms, conditions and exclusions carefully and check that their cover is suitable for how, where and when they intend to use their caravan, motorhome or campervan.
Alongside appropriate insurance and cover, owners should check their breakdown arrangements and make sure they know what assistance is available should they experience problems during their journey. With MAYDAY UK Cover, specialist lifting equipment is included to help get you back on the road if needed. That can be particularly reassuring in winter, as the Club’s breakdown cover doesn’t charge extra if specialist lifting and recovery equipment is necessary to retrieve your vehicle. For example, if your vehicle gets stuck in mud, snow, or off the road and requires heavy lifting or winching where standard recovery methods become unsuitable.
Why winter touring is worth it
For those willing to embrace the colder months, winter can offer a completely different touring experience.
Quieter campsites, greater availability and fewer crowds mean owners can explore popular destinations at a slower pace, while the changing landscape provides opportunities to see familiar places in a new way.
From walking along a deserted beach on a crisp winter morning to exploring a city lit up for Christmas, winter touring can offer experiences that simply aren't the same during the summer months.
The Club is encouraging owners to make the most of the quieter season, while remembering that preparation is part of the adventure.
The key to safe and comfortable winter touring is planning ahead. This includes keeping on top of preventative maintenance, taking the right clothing and equipment for winter conditions and planning routes with the weather and potential road conditions in mind. Choosing destinations with seasonal activities in mind can also help owners make the most of a winter break. And, with conditions sometimes changing unexpectedly, it's always sensible to have a plan B.
Andy Le Duc, Director of Marketing and Communications, said: “Winter is a fantastic time to get out and explore, and there are so many different experiences waiting for Winter Wanderers once the summer crowds have disappeared.
“Of course, winter does bring different conditions, so a little preparation before setting off can make all the difference. As well as checking your vehicle and the weather, we encourage owners to look at their insurance, breakdown and caravan cover arrangements and make sure they understand what is and isn't covered. Taking a few minutes to check before setting off can help ensure you're properly prepared and able to enjoy your winter adventure with confidence.”
Tips for touring in winter from the Club and for further information please visit www.camc.com or call 01342 318 813.
ENDS
About the Caravan and Motorhome Club
With over 1 million members and 119 years of experience, the Caravan and Motorhome Club is the UK’s No 1 touring club - as rated on TrustPilot - and helps its members get more from the great outdoors, whether glamping or touring.
- Membership: £69 per year
- Access to 2,600+ campsites across the UK and Europe
- Escorted tours in Europe, North America, Australasia & Africa
- Expert travel advice and member offers
- Visit UK holiday deals & offers to see the range of offers
Find out more or join: www.camc.com | 01342 318 813
More Ways to Stay: Experience Freedom
Want to try glamping?
Experience Freedom, from the Caravan and Motorhome Club, offers luxury stays in safari tents, glamping pods, yurts, motorhome hire, tent camping and more – across 11 beautiful UK locations. Open to both members and non-members, Experience Freedom combines comfort with the great outdoors. Operated by the Caravan and Motorhome Club, the brand benefits from decades of expertise in high-quality campsite management. Club members enjoy up to 20% off glamping stays for themselves and their guests.
Find out more or join: www.experiencefreedom.co.uk | 01342 777533
Media Contacts:
Caravan and Motorhome Club - Nikki Nichol - nikki.nichol@camc.com | 07771 834443