Winter is one of the riskiest periods for motorhome owners. Vehicles are used less, left unattended for longer, and often stored in places where problems can quietly develop.
Theft and damp remain the two most common, and most costly, issues to emerge over the colder months, but both are largely preventable with the right preparation. Taking a little time now can make all the difference when spring arrives.
Reducing the risk of theft during lay-up
Motorhomes are attractive targets, particularly when they are clearly not in regular use. The aim is to make your vehicle look difficult to steal and quick to spot if moved. Physical and highly visible security devices remain one of the strongest deterrents.
Steering wheel locks, wheel clamps and hitch locks send a clear signal that your vehicle will not be easy to move. Combining more than one device significantly increases protection. Where possible, choose products that carry Sold Secure endorsement.
This certification means the device has been independently tested to withstand sustained attack and delay thieves for a meaningful period – time is often the biggest deterrent.
Owners should also be mindful of their insurance requirements. If you have declared specific security devices to your insurer, you may be expected to use them whenever the motorhome is in use – not just when it is in storage.
While fitting a wheel clamp on a campsite might feel unusual, if it forms part of your policy conditions it must be used accordingly. Always check your documentation so there are no surprises in the event of a claim.
Electronic security is also worth considering, particularly for newer or higher-value motorhomes. Alarms and tracking systems can improve recovery prospects and are often recognised by insurers. If your motorhome is stored at home, good lighting and visibility from neighbouring properties adds another layer of deterrence.
For off-site storage, security standards should be a deciding factor. Gated access, CCTV and regular on-site presence provide significantly more protection than isolated or unsecured locations.
Preparing the interior to prevent damp
Damp rarely announces itself loudly. It develops gradually, often out of sight, and winter conditions allow it to spread unnoticed. Before storing your motorhome, carry out a thorough interior check.
Remove all food, soft furnishings that are not fixed in place, and anything that could trap moisture. Clean cupboards, wipe down surfaces and leave internal doors and lockers slightly open to encourage airflow.
Ventilation remains essential throughout winter. Built-in vents should never be blocked, and moisture absorbers can help manage condensation during long periods of inactivity. Even brief visits to air the vehicle on cold days can significantly reduce the risk of mould developing.
Checking seals, joints and external areas
Most water problems begin externally, where failing seals or small gaps allow rain to work its way into the structure. Before winter sets in, inspect window seals, roof lights, doors and external lockers carefully for signs of cracking, lifting trim or deteriorating sealant. Minor weaknesses can allow moisture to enter and spread through walls and flooring long before it becomes visible inside.
A full exterior clean before storage is not simply cosmetic. Cleaning the bodywork helps reveal cracked seals, missing sealant or areas of damage that may otherwise go unnoticed. Identifying and addressing these issues early is far less costly than dealing with structural damp later.
Care should be taken when using a pressure washer. If used too aggressively or directed at seals and joints, it can remove protective sealant and force water into small openings. In freezing conditions, any trapped moisture can expand as it turns to ice, widening gaps and increasing the risk of further ingress over time.
Storage position matters
Where your motorhome is stored has a direct impact on its condition. Parking under trees or in shaded, poorly drained areas increases exposure to moisture, falling debris and restricted airflow. A level, open position with good drainage is preferable. Avoid locations where leaves, snow or standing water can collect around the vehicle for extended periods.
Insurance, MOT and compliance
Winter lay-up is also the time to review your paperwork. Many insurance policies include specific storage conditions, including security requirements and water system drain-down procedures. Failing to meet these terms could affect a future claim, so reviewing your policy in advance provides peace of mind.
It is also common for motorhomes to be SORNed during winter storage. However, allowing an MOT or road tax to lapse without understanding the wider implications can create complications if you later need to make a claim. Some insurers and warranty providers take a strict approach to compliance, so it is important to understand exactly where you stand.
Motorhome Matt, WSG Ambassador and motorhome expert, comments: “Winter is when small oversights turn into big problems. Visible security makes a real difference because thieves look for the easiest option.
“I always recommend physical deterrents such as wheel clamps and steering locks, and ideally products that carry Sold Secure endorsement because they have been properly tested to resist attack.
“Owners also need to be aware of what their insurer expects. If you have told them certain devices are fitted, you may be required to use them even when you are away touring, not just when the motorhome is in storage.
“With damp, prevention always starts outside. A careful exterior clean helps you spot damaged seals before water gets in, and owners should be cautious with pressure washers as they can strip sealant and create gaps that worsen in freezing conditions. A little diligence now can prevent expensive repairs later.”
A little preparation goes a long way
Winter does not have to be problematic for motorhome owners, but neglect often is. Theft and damp both thrive when vehicles are left unchecked, poorly secured or inadequately ventilated.
By taking a proactive approach now, you protect not just your motorhome, but your time, money and enjoyment when the touring season begins again.
