Because Things Fall Apart When You Least Expect It
Caravanning is a joy - until something leaks, creaks, or suddenly refuses to open. Whilst a full service is something best left to the professionals, there's a lot you can do to keep your caravan running smoothly whilst you're on the road. And no, it doesn't require a tool belt the size of a garden shed.
Just a bit of attention here, a dab of grease there, and a healthy sense of "that doesn't look quite right" can make all the difference. It's not about perfection. It's about preventing the kind of surprises that ruin a good view and a strong cuppa.
Checks That Keep You Rolling (and Smiling)
None of these take long. Most can be done with a torch, a rag, and the kind of motivation that comes from not wanting to be stranded in a lay-by next to a cow field.
- Tyres and pressure - Give them a quick once-over before every move. Look for cracks, bulges, or suspicious bald spots. Under-inflated tyres are fuel-thirsty and downright dangerous.
- Lights and indicators - Walk around before you set off. All working? Great. Not working? Fix it or face the flashing lights of the law.
- Windows and vents - Check they're closed, sealed, and not flapping in the breeze mid-journey. It's funny once. Then it's expensive.
- Water system - Give pumps a quick test. Listen for odd noises. Leaks love to start when you're not paying attention.
- Battery charge - If you're off-grid, keep an eye on voltage. A flat battery turns "cosy" into "cold and dark" very quickly.
Stuff You'll Want in the Toolbox (or Under the Bed)
You don't need a mechanic's van, but a few handy bits will save your bacon when things get fiddly. Or jammed. Or mysteriously sticky.
- WD-40 or silicone spray - For squeaky hinges, sticky windows, and the occasional stubborn corner steady.
- Insulating tape - Holds things in place, covers cracks, or temporarily mends cables. Miracle stuff.
- Small adjustable spanner - Because things come loose. Usually when you're parked on a slope.
- Multimeter - Fancy? A bit. But helpful for checking batteries and fuses without guesswork.
- Kitchen roll and patience - Arguably the most-used toolkit combo of them all.
Things to Avoid (Unless You Fancy a Headache)
Avoiding these common slip-ups could possibly save you time, stress, and some colourful language in front of children or livestock.
- Neglecting to check after winter storage - Don't assume anything still works. Test it. All of it.
- Waiting for things to break - If it's squeaking, sticking, or wobbling, it's not "character" - it's a problem waiting to happen.
- Leaving seals dry - A quick wipe with a silicone cloth can prevent leaks that show up at 2am in North Wales.
- Forgetting the handbrake - Sounds obvious. Isn't. Always double-check it's on before you walk away smiling.
Insurance Isn't Maintenance, But It Helps
Even with your best efforts, stuff goes wrong. Make sure your caravan insurance covers mechanical mishaps, accidental damage, and roadside recovery. That way, a snapped step or broken skylight doesn't become a full-blown trip ruiner.
Little Fixes, Big Difference
Look after your caravan and it'll look after you. Keep things ticking over with a quick routine, deal with issues early, and don't be afraid to get a bit hands-on now and then. You'll spend less time fixing and more time enjoying - the sky, the stillness, or that third cup of tea because... well, why not?