The onset of winter doesn't have to mean the end of your camper van adventures. However, should you choose to store your Boho Camper Van for the off-season ensure it remains in excellent condition and ready for your next journey with these helpful tips. In this guide, we'll walk you through the essential steps to safely and securely store your camper van.
1. Clean Thoroughly:
Start the process by giving your camper van a top-to-bottom cleaning. Remove all trash, crumbs, and perishable food items. Wipe down surfaces and disinfect areas prone to mold or mildew growth. This not only keeps your van fresh but also prevents unwanted guests like pests.
2. Drain Water Systems:
To prevent freezing and potential damage to your plumbing system, fully drain your fresh water tank and water lines. Open all faucets and run the water pump until the lines are dry. Additionally, flush out and empty the water heater and gray water tank.
3. Empty and Clean the Refrigerator:
Remove all items from your refrigerator and clean it thoroughly. Leave the refrigerator and freezer doors propped open slightly to allow air circulation, preventing mold and mildew.
4. Charge and Disconnect Batteries:
Charge your camper van's batteries fully before storage. Then, disconnect the batteries to prevent slow discharge over time. While you could leave your batteries connected to the solar to keep the batteries topped up, this adds unnecessary charge cycles and wear to the batteries.
5. Protect Tires:
Over time, tires can develop flat spots when sitting in one place. Inflate your tires to the recommended pressure and consider using tire covers to prevent sun damage. If storing your van outside, you can also use leveling blocks to reduce tire stress.
6. Prevent Rodent Intrusion:
To deter pests from making your camper van their winter home, place mothballs, cotton balls soaked in peppermint oil, or other rodent repellents in the interior. Seal any openings where rodents could enter your van.
7. Close Windows and Vents:
Ensure all windows and vents are closed securely. You can further protect your van by covering it with a breathable, weatherproof cover to prevent moisture buildup.
8. Fuel and Engine Care:
Fill the fuel tank to prevent moisture buildup and add a fuel stabilizer to keep it fresh. Check the engine and other mechanical systems to make sure they're in good working order.
9. Documentation and Safety:
Keep copies of your insurance, registration, and any other essential documents in a safe place outside the van. Additionally, lock your camper van securely to prevent theft.
10. Routine Check-ups:
Throughout the storage period, visit your van periodically to check for any issues or changes in conditions. Ensure that your storage location remains secure and that your van stays in good shape.
Conclusion:
Properly storing your Boho Camper Van during the off-season or winter is a crucial step to protect your investment and ensure it's ready for your next adventure. By following these steps, you can rest easy knowing your van is in top condition when you're ready to hit the road again. Safe travels!