How to Winterise Your 4×4 Campervan
If you own a 4×4 campervan and don’t plan to use it much over the winter months, it’s important to prepare it properly. Winterising helps protect your camper from cold weather damage, keeps systems in good condition, and makes sure it’s ready to hit the road again when spring arrives.
Here’s how to do it step-by-step:
1. Drain Down the Water System
Any leftover water in pipes, tanks, or pumps can freeze and cause cracks. Start by emptying your fresh water tank and waste water tank completely. If your campervan has a boiler or water heater, drain this too by opening the appropriate drain valves. Open all taps, including the shower head, and run the water pump until everything is dry. Don’t forget to flush the toilet system as well. If you have a water filter, remove it or bypass it, as filters can be damaged by freezing temperatures.
2. Protect the Toilet Cassette
Your toilet cassette can suffer damage if not emptied properly. Remove the cassette, empty the contents at a disposal point, and rinse thoroughly. Leave it dry, and store it with the blade open slightly to prevent the rubber seal from sticking. For longer-term storage, consider adding a small amount of toilet conditioner to keep seals lubricated and fresh.
3. Shut Off the Gas
Gas safety is essential during winter storage. Turn off all gas supply valves at the appliances and at the gas bottle. If storing the camper indoors or in a locked garage, disconnect and remove the gas bottle entirely. This helps prevent leaks and reduces fire risk. Take this opportunity to inspect gas pipes and fittings for any signs of wear, cracking or corrosion.
4. Charge and Disconnect the Battery
Cold temperatures can drain your camper’s batteries quicker than usual. Fully charge both your leisure battery and your vehicle battery. If you’re not planning to use the campervan for several weeks or months, disconnect the batteries to prevent them from going flat. Alternatively, connect a smart or trickle charger to maintain the charge level. Check battery terminals for corrosion and clean them if needed.
5. Ventilate to Prevent Damp
Damp is a common problem in campervans over winter. To reduce the risk of mould and musty smells, ensure there is adequate airflow throughout the vehicle. Leave internal doors, cupboards, and wardrobes slightly open. Roof vents can be left in the winter setting (slightly ajar) to promote air circulation without letting rain in. Place moisture traps or dehumidifying crystals inside the camper to absorb any excess moisture.
6. Clean the Interior and Exterior
A clean campervan will fare better over winter. Remove all food, crumbs, and perishables to avoid attracting pests. Defrost and clean the fridge, and leave the door ajar to prevent mould. Wipe down surfaces, vacuum carpets, and clean upholstery. On the exterior, give the camper a thorough wash, paying attention to the roof and underbody. Applying a protective wax will help protect the paintwork from winter grime. Check all window and door seals for any damage and repair as needed.
7. Tyres and Parking
Long-term parking can lead to tyre flat spots, especially in colder temperatures. Inflate the tyres to the recommended pressure before storage. If the camper is stationary for several months, move it slightly every few weeks to change the pressure point on the tyres. Alternatively, you can use axle stands to lift the vehicle slightly off the ground. Always park on a firm, level surface and avoid soft ground where the tyres might sink.
8. Cover or Store Under Shelter
Where you store your campervan over winter makes a big difference. Ideally, keep it in a covered, ventilated area like a carport or storage facility. If this isn’t an option, invest in a high-quality breathable cover that’s designed for campervans. These allow moisture to escape while protecting from rain, snow, and debris. Avoid plastic tarpaulins, as they trap condensation and can cause damage to the paintwork.
Need Help with Servicing or Winter Checks? At Southdowns Motorhomes, our workshop can help you prepare your campervan for winter. Book a service appointment or speak to our team about winter storage options. We also offer maintenance checks and battery care to ensure your camper stays in top condition all year round.
4×4 Campervan Winterisation FAQ’s
Yes, even if your campervan is stored in a garage, temperatures can still drop low enough to freeze water systems. It’s still important to drain the water, maintain batteries, and ensure ventilation.
Yes, but you’ll need to reverse some steps like reconnecting the water system and checking the gas. If you’re planning occasional winter trips, consider partial winterisation between outings.
Every few weeks. Check for signs of damp, test the battery, and move the vehicle slightly to prevent tyre damage.
If you’re not using the camper for a while, it’s a good idea to either disconnect or remove the leisure battery and store it in a dry, frost-free place. Use a smart charger to keep it topped up.
It’s best to leave the fridge door slightly open to prevent mould and bad smells. Most campervan fridges have a built-in latch or spacer for this purpose.
Written by the Southdowns Motorhomes team. With decades of experience supplying premium motorhomes to UK and European customers, our team understands what makes a vehicle suitable for serious touring.
