If you don’t intend to keep on touring over the winter months, follow Mitsubishi’s guidelines on preparing your caravan for safe storage:
 • Clean your carpet, curtains and upholstery. Store cushions in a dry place, or cover to prevent fading.
 • Clean and empty all cupboards: leave small doors ajar, but close larger ones to prevent warping. Clean the fridge and leave its door ajar. Clean and de-grease the hob and oven.
 • Drain the water heater. Leave drain taps and inlets open. Flush water pipes and the fresh water container with a sterilising agent, and the waste pipes and container with a stronger disinfectant. Drain the pump and remove the water filter. Leave inlets and outlets open, but cover with fine mesh to keep out insects. Clean the toilet and store unsealed. Lubricate rubber seals with olive oil.
 • Unless powering an alarm, remove the battery, clean its terminals and smear them with petroleum jelly. Check the electrolyte level and top up if necessary. Store in a cool, dry place and check the state of charge every six to eight weeks – topping up as required.
 • Check rubber window seals. If there are any signs of damp, get this fixed before putting the van in storage. Oil all door locks and hinges.
 • Wash the chassis to remove road salt and prevent corrosion. Degrease the coupling and steadies, examine for wear, and then regrease.
 • Remove gas cylinders and store in a cool place.
 • Inspect 12N and 12S plugs, clean, and coat the pins with petroleum jelly.
 • Support the caravan on axle stands. Wheels can be removed and stored with tyres at normal pressure. Lower steadies for safety. Leave the handbrake off and occasionally rotate the hubs to keep them free.
 • Don’t store your caravan under trees, since it could be damaged by falling branches.
 • If you use a cover, choose one that is breathable so that air can get in and moisture can get out.
 • Leave vents uncovered to let the air circulate.