Your caravan isn’t just a vehicle—it’s your home on wheels, your cosy getaway, and your passport to adventure!
To keep it in top shape and ready for any journey, regular upkeep and a few clever tips are a must.
Check out these essential routines to make sure your caravan stays in tip-top condition and always feels ready for the next road trip!
- Regular servicing
Don’t skip out on regular servicing. Just like your car, your caravan needs routine check-ups to keep everything running smoothly.
A professional can catch potential issues before they become major problems, from checking the brakes and suspension to ensuring the gas and electrical systems are safe.
As a rule of thumb, new vans should get their first service within three months or 1000km of purchase, and then every 12 months or 10,000km after that. Sticking to this schedule helps keep your home on wheels in great shape.
- Fix repairs right away
If your caravan needs repairs, don’t put them off!
Handling issues early usually means they’re easier and cheaper to sort out. Plus, fixing things now can stop bigger problems from cropping up later.
Take care of the little things now, and you’ll save yourself from bigger hassles down the track.
- Keep it clean – inside and out – helps with maintenance
Regular cleaning not only keeps your caravan looking good but also helps you spot potential issues early on.
Besides the normal things like your kitchen, bedroom and bathrooms, here’s a few other things to think about:
- Upholstery: Your caravan’s interior can take a beating, especially with constant use. To preserve the life of your upholstery, consider using slipcovers or blankets to protect seating areas from spills, dirt, and general wear and tear. Regularly clean and vacuum to keep the fabrics fresh.
- Tyres: Check the tire pressure regularly, especially before long trips, and make sure they’re inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended levels. Rotate your tires every season to ensure even wear, and always inspect them for any cracks or signs of ageing. Don’t forget to cover your tires when your caravan is parked for extended periods to protect them from UV damage.
- Roof and solar panels: Your caravan’s roof can collect dirt, leaves, and debris, which can lead to damage over time. Regularly clean the roof, especially after parking under trees, and make sure to clear any buildup from solar panels. Keeping your solar panels clean will ensure they’re operating at peak efficiency, providing you with the power you need on the road.
TIP: Use moisture absorbers or dehumidifiers to prevent dampness, and regularly clean the interior to avoid musty smells.
- Keep an eye on the seals
Seals are what keep your caravan safe from leaks, but over time, they can wear out or crack. Even a tiny leak can lead to big problems like mould or water damage. So, it’s a good idea to check the seals around your windows, doors, roof vents, and joints regularly—especially after rough weather or long trips.
If you spot any cracks or gaps, don’t put off fixing them. Resealing any worn areas is a quick job that can save you a lot of trouble and expense down the road.
- Keep your water and electrical systems in check
Your caravan’s water and electrical systems are key to a comfy trip, so keeping them in good shape is a must. For the water system, give the tanks, pipes, and hoses a regular clean and sanitise to avoid any nasty surprises. Using a water filter can help keep sediment buildup at bay, and don’t forget to drain everything before winter to stop pipes from freezing and bursting.
On the electrical side, loose or corroded connections can cause anything from flickering lights to bigger issues. Take some time to inspect all connections, clean off any corrosion, and make sure everything’s snug. A little dielectric grease on those connections can also go a long way in protecting them from moisture.
- Think about storage from the start
How and where you store your caravan when it’s not in use can greatly affect its longevity. If you have a covered area, you’re already ahead!
Keeping your van under cover helps protect it from the weather, falling debris, and other potential hazards that could lead to damage or extra wear and tear. Plus, it’ll make cleaning a lot easier.
If an undercover spot isn’t an option for you, no worries—caravan covers are a solid backup.
They still offer protection and help keep your van in great shape for your next adventure.
- Give your van some TLC even when you’re not on the road
If your caravan’s been parked for a while, it’s a good idea to give it a little workout.
Leaving it sitting too long can cause problems, especially if it’s not clean.
Taking it for a spin helps keep everything in working order and prevents issues.
Plus, if your van’s sitting idle for too long, the batteries might run down and could get damaged. Replacing batteries isn’t cheap, so a regular drive helps keep them in top shape.