Springtime Caravanning

Spring is coming...

At this time of year, here in the UK – many of us are yearning for spring. We’ve endured the seemingly endless, dark, cold days of winter for too long. At first it seemed appealing; wrapping up warm in your new winter coat, cosy nights in by the fire and the approaching festive season – but now we need a change.

So, from the first reassuring sign of a snowdrop; begins a countdown to warmer, brighter and longer days. Days that are perfect for venturing outside. And whether you base the arrival of spring on the meteorological or the astronomical season – spring is officially on its way.

Caravan owners - time to start constructing this year’s touring itinerary!

But first make sure that your caravan is ready for the new season with our top tips:

1. Book your caravan in for a service
An annual service, as with any vehicle, is a standard recommendation - and what better time to ensure that your caravan is roadworthy than the start of the season. But book the service as early as possible though – as, at this time of year, everyone has the same idea.

2. Check for signs of damp
During the winter, as your caravan stands empty and unused – it can get a bit fusty; or worse, it can start to get damp. It is best to deal with any damp as soon as you notice it, otherwise it can take hold and cause a lot of damage.

• Check around doors, windows and skylights (and any other area where water could leak in) for signs.

  Check upholstery for any mould. If it doesn’t look damp – does it smell damp?

  Treat by giving the caravan a good airing (obviously on a dry day!) or invest in a dehumidifier.

  
  

3. Check your tyres
This is something that would be checked during a service. But there are also things that you can do:

• During the winter rotate the wheels periodically – so that weight doesn’t concentrate in one place and damage individual tyres.

  Check tyres for signs of cracking, bulging or warping.

  Top up the air pressure according to the recommended level in the manual.

  Check the wheel nuts for signs of rust and wear. Check that they are securely fastened.

  
  

4. Is everything still safe?

• Check that your fire extinguisher is still well within its expiry date. If you don’t have a fire extinguisher, we recommend that you get one – fire-related insurance claims have increased in the last few years. An extinguisher can halt a small fire (excluding cooking oil fires) before it gets out of hand. A fire blanket should be used for cooking oil fires – so it is prudent to purchase one of these too.

  Check all security devices. Does the alarm still work? And are all items such as the wheel clamp still in good working order?

  
  

5. Make sure that paperwork is up-to-date

• Check that your insurance and breakdown cover are up-to-date.

  If you are planning to go abroad, then also check that your passport and travel insurance are up-to-date.

  
  

6. Give it a good clean

• Your caravan has been standing empty for a few months – now is the perfect time for a good clean. There are likely to be a few insects and dust to get rid of, along with a musty smell; so, give it a good ‘spring clean’ now and you will look forward to inhabiting it again. It will also help to preserve the condition, and in turn what you could potentially sell it for. You could even update the upholstery if the mood takes you!

  
  

Caravanning: Fun For All Seasons

Don’t limit your adventures to the summer – make the most of your caravan - start in the spring.

This gentle introduction to the summer boasts fewer insects, young wildlife, fresher air and an opportunity to get cosy – think camp fires (rather than throwing open all the windows and doors, in an attempt to cool down…hang on.. this is the UK) and of course plenty of photo opportunities among the bluebells!

Think of this as a warm up. Summer is next up…

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