How to Prepare Your Motorhome for a Trip in 2026: The Complete Checklist

What should you check on your motorhome before setting off?

Before every trip, start with a basic technical check of your motorhome or caravan. Check tyre pressure and condition, exterior lights, the battery, fluid levels and any visible damage. Make sure service hatches, doors, windows, roof lights and exterior lockers are properly closed.

Inside, check that cupboards are securely latched and heavier items are stored as low as possible. Crockery, bottles and equipment must not be free to move around while driving. Tables, chairs, the step, cables and other outdoor gear should be packed away before you drive off.

Also inspect the gas system, the condition of the cylinder and that valves are properly closed. Set the fridge to the right mode depending on whether you're connected to mains power or about to hit the road.

If you're travelling with children, check car seats and seatbelts and remove any objects that could fly around the cabin under braking. For pets, prepare a safe carrier, harness or suitable point to secure them.

A good motorhome checklist reduces the chance of an important task only being noticed after you've already left.

How do you prepare the motorhome's water system before a trip?

The water system is one of the most important parts of trip preparation. Water travels from the tank through pipes, the pump, boiler, taps and shower, so checking the main tank alone isn't enough. If the water has been standing for a while or the motorhome hasn't been used for some time, a hygienic treatment of the entire system is recommended.

A dedicated motorhome water tank cleaner such as WATER SYSTEM is designed to disinfect the tank, pipes, taps, shower and boiler. Run the prepared solution through every outlet so it reaches the whole system, then leave it to work according to the label instructions.

Before filling up, also check your water hose. It should be used exclusively for filling the fresh water system and stored separately from toilet cassette and waste water equipment. Connectors shouldn't touch the ground, and the hose should be emptied and dried after use.

On the road, water is often taken on at campsites, motorhome stopovers, harbours, marinas, service areas or other supply points. Before filling up, check the water source labelling, the condition of the tap and the cleanliness of the surroundings. If in doubt, look for another supply point.

How do you prevent unpleasant odours from the grey water tank and toilet?

The grey or waste water tank collects water from the sink, shower and washbasin. Along with it come food residue, fats, soap, shampoo and other organic matter. These can cling to the pipes and tank walls and eventually cause an unpleasant smell.

Before your trip, empty the tank at an approved disposal point and check whether any odour is coming from the drains. FRESH TANK is a dedicated grey water tank cleaner and odour neutraliser. You can use it once a smell is already present, or preventively before the problem develops.

While travelling, avoid pouring oil, fat, coffee grounds or large food scraps down the drain. Wipe dishes before washing them, and empty the grey water tank often enough, especially in warm weather.

Also check the toilet cassette, seals and the valve. For regular use of the chemical toilet, use a dedicated fluid, sachets or tablets. FRESH TANK does not break down waste, but it can occasionally be used to neutralise odours in an empty, previously cleaned toilet cassette. Proper care of both systems prevents smells from spreading through drains or the bathroom into the living area.

How do you prepare the interior for children and pets?

Many motorhome owners travel with children or pets, so preparing the interior involves more than just wiping visible surfaces. Children often play on the floor, while pets use seats, cushions or their own bedding. In a smaller space, crumbs, hair, sand, moisture and odours spread quickly throughout the whole vehicle.

Before you leave, thoroughly vacuum the floor, seats, rugs, mattresses and hard-to-reach areas. Clean child seats, play surfaces, food bowls, carriers and pet bedding. Don't store wet towels, swimwear, sports clothing or gear in closed cupboards.

PURE SLEEP is suitable for caring for fabric surfaces that are difficult or rarely washed, such as seats, cushions, mattresses, curtains and pet bedding. To neutralise odours in the living space, you can use PURE AIR SPRAY, while PURE AIR GEL is suited to maintaining a fresh feeling for longer.

For pets, pack enough water, food, waste bags, a lead, a towel and any medication they need. For children, keep spare clothes, wet wipes, basic first aid and enough water for the journey close at hand.

What should you pack and check right before setting off?

Before leaving, prepare your vehicle documents, personal ID, insurance, toll cards and any reservations. Check that you have the electric cable, adapters, an extension lead, a fresh water hose, levelling chocks, basic tools, spare fuses and equipment for emptying the systems.

A Caravaning Set can include dedicated motorhome cleaning products covering different parts of the vehicle: the water system, grey water tank, fabrics and living area. This way you have all the solutions you need gathered in one place while travelling.

Just before setting off, do one final walk-round of the vehicle. Check that:

• the electric cable and water hose are disconnected;
• the support legs and step are put away;
• the awning is closed;
• roof lights and doors are secured;
• items inside are properly stored;
• the grey water tank and toilet cassette are properly prepared;
• children and pets are safely secured.

Key takeaways

Pay particular attention to water and food bowls, as they can tip over while driving. Use suitable fixings for sports equipment, pushchairs, bicycles and other large items. A final five-minute check can prevent damaged equipment, unnecessary stops and unpleasant complications on the road.

• Before your trip, check the technical condition, water system, grey water tank, toilet and interior of your motorhome.
• WATER SYSTEM is designed for the hygienic treatment of the tank, pipes, taps, shower and boiler.
• FRESH TANK helps prevent and neutralise odours in the grey water tank.
• When travelling with children or pets, pay extra attention to fabrics, floors, bedding and safely storing equipment.
• Always do a final walk-round outside and check the interior before driving off.