So, you’ve finished your last trip, the next one isn’t scheduled until months away, and now the van needs to be put away properly. Owning a caravan involves more work than most people imagine – and it’s usually underestimated.
What seems to be highly ignored is that a poorly packed and prepared caravan for storage can come back in worse shape than it went in.
It’s important to know what steps are needed to prepare a caravan for storage before committing to putting it away.
Why preparation matters before putting a caravan into storage
Preparing your caravan for storage takes a bit of effort, but it’s ultimately well worth it. Extended periods of inactivity can take a toll on a caravan if it hasn’t been properly prepared, and doing so will play a key role in ensuring it’s in good condition when you return to it.
A poorly prepared caravan is subject to risks like:
- Moisture and condensation build-up causing mould, rust, and upholstery damage
- Pests entering through unsealed gaps and nesting inside
- Battery drain and mechanical issues from extended dormancy
- Tyre flat spots from sitting stationary under load for months
- Fridge and water system damage from residual water left sitting
When you’re thinking of the best storage for your caravan, those are things to consider before parking it at a storage facility. The good news is that there are steps you can’t take to mitigate those risks and ensure you’ll find your caravan in the same conditions you’ve left it when you put it away.
Pack away the interior of your caravan for storage
One of the key steps when considering storage ideas for caravans is preparing and packing up the interior of your vehicle. You can use the checklist below as a helpful starting point to understand the steps involved and how they can benefit you in the long term.
- Kitchen and appliances: empty and defrost the fridge, leave the door ajar to prevent mould, remove all food and perishables, clean the stovetop and oven thoroughly, and store loose items in sealed storage containers for caravans to prevent rattling and damage in transit.
- Water system: drain all tanks, including the hot water system, flush pipes, and leave taps open to prevent stagnant water build-up and pipe damage over time.
- Bathroom: clean thoroughly, leave ventilation open slightly, remove all toiletries and products that could leak or spoil.
- Bedding and soft furnishings: remove all linen, pillows, and cushions and store separately at home; fabric left inside is an invitation for mould and pests.
- Loose items, tools, and equipment: pack all loose gear into labelled storage containers for caravans; remove anything valuable or fragile that doesn’t need to travel with the van.
- Awnings and external attachments: retract and clean all awnings before storage; remove any attachments that could be damaged by wind or weather if stored outdoors.
Prep the mechanics and exterior before storing your caravan
Another crucial factor to consider when planning storage for a caravan is preparing its mechanical components.
- Battery: disconnect and either remove or connect to a trickle charger; a flat battery left for months is often an unrecoverable one.
- Tyres: inflate to the recommended pressure before storage and, where possible, use tyre cradles or move the van periodically to prevent flat spots from developing.
- Brakes and jockey wheel: release the handbrake for long-term storage to prevent brake shoes seizing; use wheel chocks instead.
- Exterior wash and seal: clean the roof, walls, and seals thoroughly; check and reseal any gaps or cracks before storage to prevent water ingress and pest entry.
- Covers and protection: if storing outdoors or on a hardstand, use a fitted caravan cover to protect against UV damage, bird droppings, and weather.
Taking the time to prepare these essentials not only protects your caravan from unnecessary wear and tear, but also ensures it remains in reliable, road-ready condition when you’re ready to use it again.
Choosing the right storage for a caravan
After having prepared your caravan by packing up its interior and checking its mechanics, it’s time to choose your storage. There are many different types of storage solutions for caravans and it’s essential to know their difference to determine which one will better suit your needs.
1. At home
Most people choose to park their caravan on a driveway, at the kerb or at a dedicated vehicle port. For most convenient it may seem, it’s also one of the least safe storage options.
2. Outdoor hardstand
A secure, open-air storage option built to accommodate caravans, boats, and heavy machinery with ease.
3. Outdoor uncovered
Much like hardstand storage, outdoor uncovered caravan storage offers a practical open-air solution, allowing for easy access and flexibility while accommodating a range of vehicle sizes.
4. Indoor facilities
A warehouse style facility that can easily accommodate large vehicles like caravans. Ideal for extra protection against outdoor weather conditions.
If you’re still unsure which option is best for you, speak to a storage expert today.
How much is storage for a caravan?
The cost of caravan storage can vary depending on a few key factors. Understanding what influences pricing can help you choose the right option to suit your needs and budget.
Things that can influence the cost of caravan storage:
Outdoor vs indoor: typically, indoor units offer a more secure environment to store a caravan, which sometimes make them cost a bit more than outdoor units.
Size of the vehicle: Because larger vehicles require a bigger square footage, when it comes to storage, the cost will depend on the size of your caravan.
Location: Depending on where the storage facility is located, the prices can be higher or lower. A facility situated in a high-density inner-city suburb can charge a higher premium, for example.
What to look for in a caravan storage facility
Lastly, the final step is to go through and book a storage unit for your caravan. Providers like National Storage offer a wide range of storage solutions for caravans and include benefits like:
- Security
- Extended access hours
- Surface and drainage
- Location
- Cover options
- Insurance
With the right storage provider, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your caravan is secure and ready whenever you are.
Your caravan deserves better than your driveway
While maintaining a caravan takes time and care, protecting it properly when it’s not in use is well worth the effort.
National Storage is here to help you get the most out of every camping trip. Check for the units near you and book your caravan storage today.
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