Caravans are vehicles that, like any other, require a little basic maintenance work every once in a while. However, longer journeys are usually undertaken with caravans than with normal cars. For this reason, they deserve special attention. What’s more, they aren’t just another form of transport: they’re almost a home! As such, both before and after setting out, basic caravan maintenance is essential. Would you like to find out what you can’t forget to do? We tell you below!

Get everything in place for your next trip

Below we detail the basic maintenance work your caravan needs so you can enjoy a safe, comfortable journey, but don’t worry! You can perform these maintenance tasks yourself, even if you have little experience in the world of caravans. Simply grab a pen, piece of paper and jot them down so you don’t forget a thing!

Don’t get left in the dark!

One particularly relevant aspect in basic caravan maintenance is to check the condition of its battery and electrical connections. This is essential to ensuring the engine starts up and to have light and electricity inside. If the electrical connection isn’t working, your electrical appliances won’t either and you don’t want that to happen! Therefore, we recommend checking the electrical connection once a month and before you leave on your trip.

Tires in good condition

Tires are your caravan’s base. They are one of the most important parts you need to check when performing caravan maintenance. You must check your tire pressure before setting off. This should be the same as the pressure indicated by the manufacturer in order to ensure their optimal functioning. It doesn’t hurt to check to their treads and make sure they aren’t worn. If you can’t see the tread, that’s a bad sign!

Finally, if your caravan is parked for long periods of time, you should move it every once in a while to prevent its wheels becoming deformed.

Secure doors and windows

Ensure that your caravan’s doors and windows are in good condition and that they open and close correctly. This is something basic yet extremely important. If any of them are in poor condition and don’t close correctly, they may cause your caravan to lose dynamism and consume more fuel. To clean them, simply use soapy water, avoiding products containing alcohol. This is because, as they are made from methacrylate, they are more sensitive than those on cars.

Brakes and spare parts in place

You need to check your caravan’s brakes work well before and after leaving the road. Furthermore, we recommend you check all liquids, such as oil, water and windscreen cleaner, are filled and in good condition. Another good piece of advice is to grease its trailer hitches every so often.

It’s not a bad idea to check that seatbelts work correctly as this is an essential aspect in terms of safety.

Keep the interior clean and orderly

Finally, keeping the inside of your caravan clean and orderly is highly recommended before starting a journey. If things are not put away or cupboards are not closed correctly, objects can fall and cause accidents. Furthermore, it is important you clean your caravan after a trip away. Don’t forget to remove all food from cupboards and clean them with soapy water. Avoid products containing bleach as these may eat away at wood and plastic. You should also empty the fridge, leaving the door open so the rubber parts remain in good condition and to prevent bad smells.

Now you know what maintenance work your caravan requires, don’t forget to do it before leaving on your trip to ensure everything runs smoothly!