Preparing your motorhome or campervan for the 2025 season

Taking the time to thoroughly check your motorhome or campervan before the new season means you can set off confidently, knowing everything is in working order for a safe and enjoyable first trip away.

Follow this step-by-step guide to make sure your vehicle is adventure-ready.

Interior

• Thorough cleaning - Vacuum, dust and sanitise throughout, checking for any signs of leaks or mould.
• Electrics - Test all sockets, light switches, USB chargers, and ensure your lighting and control system are working properly.
• Appliances - Check that kitchen appliances such as the oven, grill, microwave and fridge/freezer are functioning as expected.
• Plumbing - Run water through all taps and your shower/bathroom facilities.
• Check air filters - If your motorhome or campervan has air conditioning or heating, ensure the filters are clean.
• Fill water tanks - Refill the fresh water tanks and inspect pipes and connections for leaks.
• Sleeping areas - Test fold-away or dropdown beds to ensure they function correctly.

While tanks may have been drained at the end of the last season, it’s good practice to fill, sanitise and flush your water tanks to keep your water system clean, safe and ready to use.

Exterior

• Inspect tyres - Check tyre pressure and tread depth, and look for cracks or wear — don’t forget the spare.
• Seals and weather stripping - Ensure all seams and seals are intact to prevent water ingress.
• Wash - Give your bodywork a thorough clean to remove dirt, dust and any build-up of mould or mildew.
• Check underneath - Inspect the undercarriage for rust and corrosion on the frame, chassis and exposed metal.
• Locks and hinges - Make sure all doors, windows, storage compartments and external latches work smoothly.
• External points - Check any external sockets, BBQ points and cold water shower points.

Mechanical

• Lights - Test all exterior lights, including indicators, brake lights and headlights, and replace any faulty bulbs.
• Battery and solar panels - Test your vehicle battery, and leisure battery under load. Check that solar panel connections are working properly.
• Fluids - Check oil, coolant, brake fluid and windshield washer fluid — top up or change where needed.
• Brakes and steering - Take a short test drive to check for smooth acceleration, braking and handling.
• Pop-tops - If your motorhome or campervan has an elevating roof system, test the locking mechanisms and folding ladders.

Safety

• Detectors - Test all fire alarms, carbon monoxide detectors and propane leak detectors.
• First aid kit - Ensure it’s stocked with bandages, medication and emergency supplies.
• Gas bottles - Check for damage or rust on any stored gas bottles, inspect hoses and connections, and perform a leak test using soapy water.

Essential documentation

• Legal documents - Check that your registration, road tax and MOT are all up to date. If the renewal date is approaching or has already passed, book an MOT test as soon as possible.
• Insurance - Review your policy and notify your insurer if your vehicle has been stored over winter, as some policies have storage-specific clauses that could affect coverage.
• Breakdown cover - Ensure your roadside assistance policy is current, and renew any club memberships or passes.

Remember that expired insurance, MOT or road tax can result in fines, penalty points and voided insurance, which could prevent you from travelling.

Summary

In summary, by taking the time to prepare your motorhome or campervan before the new season begins, you’ll set yourself up for a smooth, safe and enjoyable first trip away. A little extra effort now means more time to relax and enjoy the journey once you’re on the road.