Fresh for the Road: Your Spring Caravan Prep Checklist

Give the van a clean slate;

A proper clean does more than make things look nice—it helps you spot issues early. Start with a gentle exterior wash, paying attention to joins, windows and around fixtures where grime hides. Open doors and hatches to air the interior and let any winter damp escape. Wipe cupboards, bench tops and the fridge, then vacuum or shake out mats and soft furnishings.

Inside fabrics can trap moisture. If cushions or bedding feel clammy, dry them in the sun and check for mould. A quick wipe with a mild cleaner keeps mildew at bay. Finish with a simple “everything opens, everything closes” test on latches and drawers so you’re not wrestling with sticky hardware on day one.

Checklist—clean & inspect

• Exterior wash: bodywork, windows, awning cassette
• Interior refresh: cupboards, fridge seals, vents, soft furnishings
• Latches and hinges: open/close test; lubricate if needed
• Visual scan for damp, mould or stains near windows and rooflights

Safety first: tyres, brakes and electrics.

Tyres age in storage. Check pressures against the manufacturer placard (including the spare), then inspect tread depth and sidewalls for cracking. Torque wheel nuts before travel. If you use a weight distribution hitch, confirm torque on key bolts and ensure spring bars are seated correctly.

Electrics matter more than we think. Charge house batteries fully, confirm charger operation, and test all lights—brake, indicators, tail and number-plate. If you run a brake controller, test it at low speed in a quiet street; brakes should engage progressively and evenly.

Fluids, filters and seals;

Even if your tow vehicle is serviced on schedule, a seasonal check helps. Confirm engine oil level and look for coolant and brake-fluid changes since last service. Replace a clogged air filter to aid fuel economy, and inspect wiper blades—spring showers will test them.

On the van, walk the roofline and sides to check sealants around windows, vents and roof accessories. Minor hairline cracks can invite water. If you spot something concerning, book a professional inspection. Open and close the awning, checking for fabric wear and smooth retraction.

Don’t forget to:

• Test gas appliances with a soapy-water check on connections (no naked flames).
• Ensure your gas bottles are in date and secured correctly.
• Confirm fire extinguisher gauge and replace out-of-date alarms.

Water system: fresh, simple and safe.

Sanitise your fresh-water tank and lines at the start of the season. Use a food-safe sanitiser, flush thoroughly, and run taps until the odour disappears. Check the water pump for smooth cycling and look for drips around fittings. Replace tap washers if they squeal or leak.

If you carry a grey-water tank, confirm the drain opens and seals properly. Keep a spare hose washer and a short, labelled kit of fittings so you can connect to unfamiliar park taps without fuss.

Packing tip: Keep a “first-night” box—tea/coffee, long-life milk, paper towel, rubbish bags, dish soap and a basic tool kit—so you can relax on arrival before a full set-up.

Pack for spring’s mood swings;

Spring can flip from warm sun to a cool change in minutes. Layering is your friend: breathable shirts, a light rain shell, and a warm mid-layer for inland evenings. Add a wide-brim hat, sunscreen and insect repellent. For camp comfort, pack chairs with decent back support, an outdoor mat to keep dust down, and warm lighting for dinner.

Smart additions

• Levelling ramps and a small spirit level
• Spare fuses and globe kit
• Tyre gauge and portable compressor
• Collapsible tubs for shoes and laundry
• Head torches plus a low-glare lantern for the table

A 20-minute home rehearsal;

Before the first getaway, connect to mains, extend the awning and run a mini “show day”. Switch on lights, pump and fridge; light gas appliances if fitted; and check windows, blinds and flyscreens for smooth operation. Hook up to the tow vehicle and test the brake controller output on your street. This small rehearsal finds 90% of the niggles you’d otherwise discover at dusk in a new park.

When you’re satisfied, set a realistic first leg—spring’s longer light can tempt over-driving. Plan a coffee stop every two hours, share the wheel if possible, and arrive with time up your sleeve to choose a level site.

Departure routine you’ll actually remember;

A short, repeatable departure routine keeps everyone calm. Laminate it and hang it near the door.

Walk-around: final checks

• Hatches/locks secured; steps stowed; TV antenna down
• Gas off
• Awning locked; stabilisers up; wheel chocks removed
• Towball locked, safety chains crossed, breakaway cable attached
• Mirrors adjusted; lights and indicators working
• Tyre pressures confirmed; wheel nuts torqued

In Summary;

A clean, checked and well-packed van sets you up for a smoother season—less tinkering, more time where you want to be. Ready to upgrade your touring set-up or compare layouts for the trips you have in mind?