It is late January, and if you are anything like us, you are already counting down the days until the camping season truly kicks off. While the winter months often mean hibernation for our beloved motorhome vehicles, the promise of spring brings a fresh wave of excitement. The open road is calling, but before we head out to our favourite countryside spots or coastal retreats, we need to ensure our vans are up to the task.
Taking the time now to prepare your motorhome saves hassle later. It ensures that your first trip of the year remains a fond memory rather than a lesson in roadside repairs. We believe that a little preparation meets adventure halfway, giving you the confidence to explore further and stay out longer.
The Great Gear Rotation
One of the most satisfying parts of getting ready for spring is shedding the bulk of winter. Seasonal equipment rotation keeps your van optimised for the activities you actually plan to do. During the colder months, our storage spaces often get stuffed with heavy coats, extra blankets, and heaters. Now is the time to be ruthless with that inventory.
We recommend clearing out the winter specific gear to make room for the fun stuff. Store those heavy items at home and prioritise your hiking boots, lighter waterproofs, and perhaps even your water sports equipment. This rotation prevents overcrowding and ensures you are always ready for an adventure. Remember that your van’s storage capacity is finite. Working within those limits makes every journey more enjoyable, so try to keep the floor space clear and the cupboards organised.
Reviving the Interior
After a few months of sitting idle, or perhaps being used for muddy winter weekenders, the interior of your van likely needs some attention. Material selection matters enormously for durability and maintenance, but even the toughest materials need a refresh.
Start by stripping out the soft furnishings. Cushions, throws, and rugs make hard surfaces more inviting, but they also trap dust and dampness over winter. Give them a good wash. Using machine-washable fabrics saves time and effort, meaning you can get them fresh and back in the van quickly.
If you want to breathe new energy into your living space for the season, consider adding some greenery. Plants bring life and freshness to van interiors. We love hardy varieties like succulents or spider plants because they tolerate varying light conditions and the occasional neglect that comes with a busy travel schedule. Just ensure they are secured safely before you drive away.
Mechanical Peace of Mind
While we love the aesthetic side of van life, the mechanical side is where safety truly lives. Your vehicle serves as your temporary home and adventure base, so it needs to be reliable.
Start with a walk-around. Check your tyres for signs of degradation from sitting in one spot. Check your lights and fluid levels. If you have been stored up for a while, it is also wise to check your leisure batteries. Through our strategic partnerships, we help members access savings on essential items like these, making the lifestyle more affordable.
We also know that even with the best preparation, things can sometimes go wrong. That is why we are proud of our partnership with Emergency Assist Ltd, which provides our members with 25% off UK and European breakdown cover. Knowing you have specialist vehicle recovery that understands motorhomes gives you genuine peace of mind. It allows you to focus on the journey rather than worrying about the “what ifs.”
Smart Packing and Organisation
Spring cleaning is the perfect excuse to rethink your layout. Smart packing starts with honest assessment. Walk through your van and identify your actual storage spaces. We are talking about those clever nooks under seating, overhead compartments, and external storage areas.
Each space has a purpose. Matching items to their ideal locations makes daily life on the road infinitely easier. For instance, keep your day packs ready with essentials, while storing overnight gear and weather alternatives in harder-to-reach spots. This flexibility means you can tackle variable British weather confidently without turning your living space upside down every time the sun comes out.
Preparing for the Community
One of the best parts of this lifestyle is the people you meet. We specialise in hosting rallies and events across stunning locations, and we cannot wait to see you all again soon. These gatherings are where we swap travel tips, share stories, and build lifelong friendships.
As you prep your van, think about how you travel within the wider ecosystem. Respect local communities by ensuring your waste facilities are fully functional. Stay self-contained and ensure your van has appropriate facilities for storing waste until you can dispose of it properly. Being a good neighbour is central to our values; it ensures we are all welcome back to these beautiful spots year after year.
We are looking forward to a season filled with live music, entertainment, and shared experiences. If you want to find more specific advice, route suggestions, or simply want to connect with fellow enthusiasts who share these values, we would love to welcome you.
Visit The Van Club to join our community and start your spring adventures with us. Let’s make this season our best one yet.