A new year brings new opportunities for travel, and for motorhome owners, winter does not have to mean staying parked up at home. Colder weather travel can be a rewarding experience, as long as your campervan is properly prepared. Here at UK Leisure Parts, we know that winter travel requires a little extra planning. With the right preparation and equipment, you can stay warm, safe, and comfortable while enjoying the travelling.
Check your vehicle and tyres
Before setting off on any journey, ensure your campervan is mechanically sound. Cold temperatures and wet roads can place extra strain on vehicles, so checking fluid levels, brakes, lights, and battery condition is essential. Tyres are particularly important in winter. Make sure they have sufficient tread depth and are inflated to the correct pressure, especially if your campervan carries extra weight. Good tyres also improve grip on icy or wet roads and give you greater confidence while driving.
Prepare your electrical system
Winter travel often means longer nights and increased power usage. Lighting, heating systems, and charging devices all draw from your leisure battery, so ensuring your electrical setup is in good condition is very important. Check your leisure battery health, inspect wiring, and make sure that chargers are working properly. If you are travelling off grid, solar panels combined with smart charging systems can help keep your batteries charged even during shorter days.
Proper insulation
Keeping your campervan warm is not just about comfort, but it also protects your interior and electrical components from condensation. Thermal screens, blackout curtains, and insulated window coverings help retain heat and reduce cold drafts. These additions can also help prevent moisture build-up on windows, reducing the risk of damp and mould during winter travel. A well-insulated campervan stays warmer for longer and can use less energy overall.
Check seals, trims and ventilation
Cold weather can expose weak points in seals and trims. Inspect door seals, window rubbers, trims, and seals for cracks or gaps that could let cold air or water inside. At the same time, maintain proper ventilation. Even in winter, allowing moist air to escape prevents condensation and keeps your campervan dry and comfortable.
Safety and Comfort
Winter travel calls for extra health and safety preparation. Carry essentials such as a torch, warm blankets, a first aid kit, and spare fluids. Having these items on hand ensures peace of mind if weather conditions change unexpectedly.
The new year is the perfect time to embrace new travel, and with proper preparation, quality insulation, and reliable equipment, you can enjoy every journey regardless of the season. Here at UK Leisure Parts, we stock a wide range of products designed to support winter campervan travel. For more information on the products and services we offer, take a look around our website today – where you can find all of the relevant details you need. Alternatively, pop into our store for a chat with one of our friendly team! We are always happy to help.
