By William Coleman
We have had a few frosty mornings over the past couple of weeks which can only mean one thing, winter is almost upon us. I have given my personal thoughts and ideas on what to do to prepare for the off season. Now that we edge ever closer to winter and the Christmas season the Camping and Caravanning Club’s expert Technical Team have produced a three step guide to motorhome and caravan owners.
Step one: ‘Winter touring’ comprises two Data Sheets with easy-to-follow guidance on how to ensure caravans and motorhomes are roadworthy and well-protected against the worst of winter conditions so the joys of winter camping can be explored to their fullest.
Another Club Data Sheet called ‘Winter care for your caravan’ includes important information about overwintering a caravan or motorhome and addresses key considerations, such as where owners can store their units, how to protect the body work and the all-important draining of water systems.
Step two: ‘Getting ready for the new season’ gives campers an advantage when it comes to a glitch-free start to next year’s camping season. With Data Sheets available on servicing, getting ready for the road and tyre care, all potential obstacles to a speedy start to the season are addressed, with suggestions on how to overcome any issues.
The Data Sheet covering ‘Servicing’ includes information on owner-checks and maintenance, plus advice on which dealerships or workshops to approach when booking a service.
Step three: ‘The finer points’ comprises Data Sheets on leisure batteries and tyre care, and includes a useful buyer’s guide.
Ian Hewlett, the Club’s Technical Manager, said: “There are several things caravanners and motorhomers can do to make the most of winter, be that touring through the season or putting a unit into storage so less time is then needed to be spent in spring before the first camping trip.
“Club Data Sheets have been written with campers in mind – we cut through the jargon with easy-to-understand advice that helps people with a range of subjects such as buying a leisure battery, booking in a service or sorting out storage for their pride and joy.”
To view the full set of Club Data Sheets and follow the three-step plan visit: www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk/datasheets Tips on preparing awnings and tents for storage are also available.
The Club has 17 campsites that are open year-round to cater for campers who want to carry on touring throughout the winter. To find out more about the Club’s year-round campsites visit: www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk/year-round-sites
