Winter is Here! Our Checklist for preparing your Caravan for Winter Storage
November 24, 2017
5 tips to help you get your Caravan ready for Winter Storage
As any dedicated Game of Thrones fan will know, winter is finally here! Now, we’re not trying to suggest that your caravan is at risk from attack by White Walkers or Ice-breathing Dragons, but,
if you fail to prepare your caravan properly now you could risk costly repairs come Spring.
So here are our top tips to help ensure that your winter passes with as few problems as possible;
1. Drain your water systems
It might sound obvious but you would be amazed at how many people forget! In order to prevent frost damage, make sure that you fully drain your water system. Open all taps and drain valves and remove any filters. Run the on-board pump and remove the shower head. Drain and clean your cassette toilet.
You should also drain any portable water containers thoroughly to prevent mould growth.
2. Charge your battery
If possible, remove your battery and take it home to charge. We also recommend that you try to power up your heating system periodically over the winter as this will help to keep your battery in good condition. This may seem like a bit of a pain, but when Spring comes and your caravan is in perfect working order it will all be worth it!
*Please be aware that if your caravan has a security alarm or tracking system it will need a source of power. Most systems run off of a separate power source but you should check your handbook to make sure.
3. Remove all gas cylinders
If you have access to an appropriate location we would recommend that you remove you gas cylinders over the winter. Alternatively, ensure that all gas cylinders are closed or disconnected and fit caps over any open pipework.
4. Air your interior
Unfortunately, unused caravans can develop a stagnant smell. To avoid unwanted smells, we suggest that you thoroughly clean your fridge/freezer and cupboards and leave the doors propped open so that the air can circulate. Plug all water inlets and waste outlets to stop unwanted visitors from crawling in. You should also remove all cushions, pillows and bedding and store elsewhere if possible.
5. Protect your exterior
You have two options when it comes to protecting the exterior of your caravan or motorhome, a breathable cover or an exterior protector fluid.
Protector fluids are generally the cheaper option and will wash off easily after the winter. Whichever brand you choose, we recommend that you follow the directions provided.
Covers are more expensive but if you choose a good one it will be a long-term investment. If you choose to invest in a cover please make sure that it is breathable and soft enough that it won’t damage your paintwork.
We would also suggest that you take the opportunity to thoroughly wash and dry your awning. It is essential that you ensure that the awning is completely dry, even small amounts of damp will result in mouldy patches.
So, there you have it, a little bit of work now and you can head into the spring months knowing that you’ve done all you can to prepare for whatever comes your way, unless of course it is an ice-breathing dragon!
Seasonal touring pitches at our holiday parks include winter storage, so if you’re looking for somewhere to pitch your caravan next season why not take a look at what we have to offer. With 9 parks all situated in the heart of Somerset we’re sure you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for.
Latest News
We are ecstatic to share that West Country Parks have been named the Hospitality and Tourism Business of the Year and Large Business of the Year at the prestigious Sedgemoor Business Excellence Awards 2025. These award categories honour businesses that deliver exceptional guest experiences and adapt to changing trends, and recognise large businesses that lead through innovation, communication and community impact. Businesses from across the region came together for an evening of celebration and recognition at this year’s Sedgemoor Business Excellence Awards, where local organisations of all sizes were honoured for their hard work, resilience and innovation. This year was the busiest to date, with more than 130 entries across all categories. The standard was exceptionally high and reflects the strength and diversity of Sedgemoor’s business community. Speaking about the awards, Roger Smith, General Manager at the Bridgwater Chamber of Commerce, said; 'These awards really are the jewel in the Chamber’s crown, and this year was no exception, with more than 240 people coming together to celebrate our incredible local business community. Congratulations to all our finalists and winners. We look forward to continuing our work to connect, promote and support business, helping to ensure a thriving local economy.' We would like to thank our visitors, supporters and all of our fantastic team for your support.
We are delighted to share that Riverside Holiday Village has been named the Holiday Park of the Year and Dog Friendly Business of the Year at the Bristol, Bath and Somerset Tourism Awards 2026, held at T he Apex City of Bath Hotel in Somerset. These award categories recognise holiday parks, sites and villages that provide exceptional guest experiences across static vans, touring pitches and more with a wide range of facilities and entertainment, and providers of truly memorable experiences for dogs and their human companions. This year marks the second consecutive year that Riverside has won the coveted Holiday Park of the Year Gold Award. Nell Barrington, awards director at Services for Tourism Ltd, commented on the importance of the awards: “What I love most about these awards is that they give tourism businesses the recognition they deserve. So many of them work incredibly hard, often with little reward, and some are tiny teams or even just one person keeping everything going. Despite the challenges the sector continues to face, these businesses have shown excellence, innovation and resilience.” We would like to thank our visitors, supporters and all of our fantastic team for your support.
With the festive season fast approaching, there's plenty going on to keep our visitors entertained this winter here at Riverside Holiday Village .