We’re fast approaching that time of year that camping and caravan sites start becoming busier. The longer, warmer days draws tourists in their droves to the Welsh coast and countryside. For the foreseeable future, however, that won’t be happening as the UK remains in lockdown.
For campervan and motorhome owners, it is a concern. While non-essential travel is prohibited, thousands of motorhomes across the UK are going nowhere. But there are things that can be done to keep a campervan or motorhome in prime condition for when the restrictions are lifted.
Check and review your documents
Now is an ideal time to check where you stand with your tax and motorhome insurance renewal. You can get on top of what needs paying, when it’s due and whether you need any assistance.
Of course, some owners might be looking at getting a Statutory Off Road Notification (SORN) to stop paying tax and insurance altogether until the lockdown is lifted.
While this can save cash in the short term, a campervan or motorhome is still – sadly – at risk from theft and accidental damage. Keeping your motorhome insurance in place can, if nothing else, provide much greater peace of mind in the current climate.
Spring cleaning for summer adventures
A deep spring clean of a campervan or motorhome leaves it in sparkling condition for the next time it provides a home from home. But there is more to a spot of spring cleaning than having everything in the right place.
Damp, mould and grime can create serious problems if not dealt with for a long period of time. When a motorhome isn’t used during the damp, cold winter months, mould can accumulate. It can seriously affect someone’s health – particularly in a smaller space.
While the restrictions remain in place, it’s well worth getting inside a motorhome – opening up windows and getting into hidden corners to ensure mould isn’t allowed to become a problem.
Get on top of any roof or window maintenance
Both the roof and windows should be checked often to ensure that any motorhome is just that – a home. Leaks, gaps or movements can undermine safety, security and comfort.
Roof and window maintenance can include making sure all the joints function as intended. It is also a good idea to check all the seals around doors, windows and sky lights to make sure they are still watertight and airtight. This prevents any unwanted moisture from getting inside.
Keep things ticking over under the bonnet
Like any vehicle, it is essential to make sure everything works as it should do under the bonnet. When a motorhome or campervan is not used for a long period of time, it can cause mechanical issues that can be avoided.
- Not using a vehicle for an extended period of time can cause battery issues. It’s a good idea, therefore, to consider charging it once every 4-6 weeks.
- Oil levels can be easy to overlook in the normal day-to-day life. Owners should use this time to ensure the oil in their motorhome is filled.
- Check there are no issues with the spark plugs
- Tyres deflate over time, especially when a vehicle isn’t being used. By making sure tyre pressures are what they should be, a motorhome will be ready to hit the road.
Amid the ongoing uncertainty of the current coronavirus lockdown, the health and condition of a motorhome or campervan needn’t be one of them. Just a few simple steps is all it takes to keep a vehicle in good condition – ready that first getaway once the current restrictions are removed.
