As we move into the autumn months, many of us will be reaching for the best motorhome cover and preparing our ‘vans for storage. However, some motorhomers love to tour during the winter, with quieter campsites and the many beautiful seasonal sights that nature provides.
For those of us who aren’t winterising a motorhome, it’s important to think ahead and take into account when you’re going to be travelling. Having an enjoyable winter tour doesn’t just mean making sure you have the right accessories packed, such as the best heater for a campervan, but also means factoring in the conditions you will be driving in to ensure your travels and time on the road go to plan. With a bit of advanced planning, you can look forward to some enjoyable tours during the colder months, as the experts at Auto Finance explain.
1. Check the window seals
Checking the condition of your window seals and subsequently carrying out any necessary repairs will be an important step to ensuring your motorhome stays protected from the elements. Both the windows and fixtures need to be able to withstand movement, but this means they can start deteriorating after a while, which can leave your ‘van exposed to the effects of the weather.
For those who need to repair a ‘van’s seals, the good news is it isn’t as difficult a prospect as you may think and it also dries quickly. Take a look at Nigel Hutson’s guide to repairing motorhome window seals if you want to find out the steps involved.
2. Ensure your windows are insulated
There’s another task to carry out in relation to your ‘van’s windows that can help to keep your motorhome warm – make sure they’re insulated properly. Auto Finance’s expert, Steve Noga, says “Insulating your windows doesn’t have to be expensive. One of the most popular and versatile methods is using foil insulation; this tends to come in rolls and can be easily cut to the size of your windows. Shrink film kits are also inexpensive and a great way to insulate your windows.”
“You can also make use of curtains; these help insulate your caravan whilst protecting your privacy, while rugs can also trap heat and keep your vehicle warm.”
3. Check the battery power
Winter battery care is an important step during the colder months – the time of year can prove to be energy-intensive and as a result, put pressure on your battery and fuel consumption.
This is because there are certain accessories that are worth having that can prevent further issues from developing – for instance, a heater, which can ensure frost doesn’t form. The best motorhome dehumidifier can also help to combat damp. However, if you don’t have access to electric hook-up where you’re staying, it can put a lot of strain on your battery or fuel usage, so be sure to take care and keep an eye on it.
4. Carry out checks
Before you set off on a winter tour, there are some crucial checks to carry out, alongside the usual pre-tour checks. Firstly, check the condition of your motorhome tyres – they need to be in a suitable condition for driving in unpredictable conditions such as snow or ice.
Take a look for any cracks or leaks in the roof or exterior of your ‘van as well, and ensure the pipes are neither blocked or frozen – these can prove costly to fix.
5. Ensure you have the right emergency kit
It’s important to make sure you’re prepared for the unexpected and have the right kit to hand, just in case the worst should happen. Items to pack include a blanket, a first aid kit, a wind-up torch, a high-vis vest, snow chains (these can be a legal requirement in certain countries when snowing), food and water supplies (it’s worth choosing store cupboard food which will not expire any time soon), and both waterproof and warm clothing.
Lead image: Sue Taylor
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