Spring is one of the best times to tour in a motorhome. The roads are quieter, campsites start reopening and everything feels a bit lighter after winter but before you turn the key and roll off, your motorhome needs a proper wake-up call.
If your van’s been parked up over winter, jumping straight into a trip can lead to annoying (and avoidable) problems. This checklist walks you through what to check so your first spring tour is smooth, safe and stress-free.
1. Exterior Checks: Start from the Outside In
Winter can be tough on a motorhome, even when it’s been stored carefully.
Walk around and check:
- Roof and seals for cracks, gaps or signs of water ingress
- Windows and vents for damage or brittle seals
- Bodywork for dents, corrosion or rubbing trim
- Awnings open them fully and check fabric, arms and tension
- Lights and indicators replace blown bulbs now, not on the road
👉 Tip: A quick wash isn’t just cosmetic, it helps you spot issues you’d otherwise miss.
2. Tyres & Wheels
Tyres often look fine after winter but can still be unsafe.
- Check tyre pressures (including the spare)
- Look for cracks, flat spots, or bulges
- Check tyre age, many motorhome tyres age out before they wear out
- Ensure wheel nuts are secure
If the van’s been sitting for months, tyre pressure is almost always low.
3. Engine & Mechanical Basics
Even if you’re not mechanically minded, these checks matter.
- Check engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and washer fluid
- Inspect belts and hoses for cracks or stiffness
- Look under the vehicle for leaks
- Start the engine and listen for anything unusual
- If due, book a service or MOT/inspection before touring
Let the engine run long enough to fully warm up, short starts over winter don’t count.
4. Batteries & Electrics: Bring the Power Back
Winter storage is hard on batteries.
Check:
- Leisure battery voltage and condition
- Vehicle battery (especially if it wasn’t on a maintainer)
- All 12V systems (lights, water pump, fans)
- 120V/230V hookups, sockets, and RCDs
- Solar panels and charge controller (if fitted)
If batteries won’t hold charge, replace them now not mid-trip.
5. Water System: Flush, Fill, Test
If you winterized properly, this step is essential.
- Reconnect or refill the fresh water tank
- Flush the entire system with clean water
- Sanitize if needed (especially if stored a long time)
- Check for leaks at joints, taps, and under sinks
- Test water pump, toilet, shower, and hot water
Run water through every tap, including the outside shower if you have one.
6. Gas System: Safety First
Gas appliances often sit unused all winter.
- Check gas bottles are secure and within test dates
- Inspect hoses and regulators for cracks
- Test hob, fridge, heater and water heater
- Make sure vents and flues are clear
- Confirm carbon monoxide detector works
If anything smells off or won’t light properly, get it checked professionally.
7. Interior & Living Area
This is where comfort comes in.
- Air out the motorhome fully
- Check for damp, mould, or musty smells
- Test fridge on all modes
- Inspect soft furnishings and mattresses
- Restock kitchen, bedding, and cleaning supplies
- Secure loose items to avoid rattles
Spring trips are much nicer when you’re not chasing mystery smells.
8. Paperwork, Planning & Practical Stuff
Before you hit the road:
- Check insurance, tax, and breakdown cover
- Update sat nav and camping apps
- Confirm campsite bookings
- Pack a basic tool kit and spares
- Review weight limits after loading
A few minutes of admin now can save hours later.
Final Pre-Trip Test
Before your first proper tour, take the motorhome out for a short local drive:
- Listen for rattles
- Test braking and steering
- Make sure everything stays powered
- Recheck tyre pressures after loading
Think of it as a dress rehearsal.
Ready for the Road
Spring touring is one of the joys of motorhome life but preparation is what makes it enjoyable rather than stressful. This checklist helps you catch small issues early, protect your investment and start the season with confidence.
Once the basics are done, all that’s left is choosing the route
For more pre-season help take a look at our step by step checklist HERE
Happy touring 🚐🌱
👉 Book your FREE assessment today: contact us
📞 01454 612 893 | 📧 service@bristolcaravans.com
