Company Blog

A Beginner’s Guide to Caravan Maintenance

A caravan is a great way to travel and experience the outdoors. Regular maintenance is necessary to keep your caravan in peak condition and to guarantee a safe and enjoyable journey. We’ll go over important caravan maintenance advice in this beginner’s guide and emphasise the value of warranties, like those provided by Bailey Caravans.

Image of a Baileys Unicorn caravan

Understanding Your Warranty

When looking at purchasing a caravan, it’s crucial to understand the warranty terms. For example, all Bailey caravans and motorhomes are supplied with a 6-year body shell integrity warranty and a 3-year manufacturer’s warranty. This level of protection offers peace of mind, knowing that your investment is protected should any issues arise during the warranty period.

Essential Caravan Maintenance Tips

1. Regular Inspections

Inspect your caravan regularly for any signs of wear and tear, leaks, or damage. Check the seals around windows, doors, and vents, as well as the roof and floor for any signs of water ingress. If you’re considering a used Bailey Caravan, ensure you thoroughly inspect each department of the caravan. Here at Ropers, our expert team walks through every aspect of the caravan with you and answers all questions you may have.

2. Tyre Maintenance

Check your caravan’s tyres for wear, damage, and proper inflation regularly. Keep in mind that underinflated tyres can lead to uneven wear, reduced fuel efficiency, and even blowouts.

3. Cleaning and Protecting

Clean your caravan’s exterior using a mild detergent and a soft brush to remove dirt and any grime. Regular cleaning not only keeps your caravan looking its best but also helps prevent the build-up of mould, which can cause long-term damage. Apply a quality wax or sealant to protect the paintwork from UV rays and environmental pollutants.

4. Servicing and Repairs

Have your caravan serviced regularly by our professional team to ensure all systems are functioning correctly and efficiently. This includes checking the brakes, suspension, electrical systems, and appliances.

5. Interior Maintenance

Keep the interior of your caravan clean and clutter-free. Regularly inspect and clean all soft furnishings, such as curtains, cushions, and bedding. Vacuum the floor and upholstery to remove dust and dirt, and wipe down all surfaces with a damp cloth and mild cleaner.

6. Gas Safety

Regularly check your caravan’s gas system for leaks, corrosion, or damage. Always ensure gas bottles are stored correctly and secured when not in use.

7. Electrical Systems

Inspect your caravan’s electrical systems, including wiring, batteries, and appliances, for any signs of wear or damage. Test all lights, sockets, and switches to ensure they’re functioning correctly. Regularly recharging your caravan’s leisure battery to extend its lifespan.

8. Moisture and Damp Prevention

Dampness can cause serious issues in a caravan, leading to mould and structural damage. Use a dehumidifier or moisture-absorbing products to help control humidity levels. Regularly air out your caravan by opening the windows and vents, especially after cooking or showering. Always address any leaks or water ingress immediately to prevent further damage.

9. Winterising Your Caravan

When your caravan is not in use during the winter months, it’s essential to protect it from freezing temperatures and potential damage. This includes draining the water system, disconnecting the gas supply, and removing any perishable items. You may consider using a breathable cover to protect the exterior from the elements.

10. Security Measures

It’s essential to take appropriate security measures to protect your caravan. This can include fitting a hitch lock, and wheel clamp, and installing an alarm system or tracking device. Always store your caravan in a secure location when not in use, and consider joining a caravan security registration scheme.

By adhering to these maintenance tips and guidelines, you can prolong the life of your caravan and enjoy countless adventures on the road. Remember that regular maintenance is key to ensuring a safe and enjoyable caravanning experience, and always be proactive in addressing any issues that may arise.

If you would like to speak to a member of our team for further maintenance advise, call us on 01748 818 666. You can also reach us via email: enquiries@ropersleisure.co.uk. You can find our full contact details and where we are located on our contact page.

Ropers win Gold & Second Place at the Caravan Owner Satisfaction Awards 2023

Hosted by Practical Caravan Magazine & The Camping and Caravanning Club, the annual caravan awards showcase results that are divided into new and pre-owned caravans, overall dealership service and almost 5,000 responses submitted from customers and experts in the field. Britain’s most popular caravan magazine is Practical Caravan.

Firstly, we’re absolutely delighted to have won this award and to see the progress of our company over the years. It’s a real honour and privilege for our company to have won the Gold Award across the entire caravan market in the UK.

We also learnt that we are the only Northern company to get a mention! So we are delighted to hear this!

Category: “Best New Caravan Supplying Dealers”

Ropers Leisure

We can see our progression as a company over the years by reading the caravan owner satisfaction awards 2023 update. Back in 2020, we positioned third place and now we move into second place for 2023.

We have a special team here at Ropers, and being a family-run business for over 40 years, we love nothing more than bringing that family atmosphere forward to our staff and customers. We strive for professional and quality service for our customers, and we are absolutely thrilled with the news!

At our family-run dealership in Catterick Bridge, North Yorkshire, we offer both new and used caravans and motorhomes. We also have a showroom, shop and cafe available to the public! So come down and visit us!

If you would like to speak to a member of our team today, call us on 01748 818 666. You can also reach us via email: enquiries@ropersleisure.co.uk.You can find our full contact details and where we are located on our contact page.

As Heat Soars in the UK, Here are the 5 Best Caravanning Holiday Locations & Parks

As people embrace the sunny weather, more interest in staycations and caravanning holidays peak and seem to be an easy-to-go option. These instant getaways provide people with the ability to save rather than spending more going abroad and possibly seeing flight delays.

Caravanning is a popular holiday option in the UK, as it offers a great way to explore the country while still having all the comforts of home. There are a wide variety of caravan parks to choose from, so there is sure to be one that meets your needs.

We have gathered the best UK caravanning holiday locations and parks you can visit this summer.

5 Best Caravanning Holiday Locations & Parks

  1. Cornwall – St Ives Bay Holiday Park

Cornwall is the first on the list, which offers stunning coastal scenery and a warm climate. This is an ideal location for those who enjoy spending time outdoors, as there are plenty of opportunities for walking, cycling, and fishing. For those who prefer to stay closer to their accommodation, there are also many attractions within easy reach, such as the Eden Project and the Lost Gardens of Heligan.

  1. Devon – South Bay Holiday Park

Devon is a beautiful county in the southwest of England and is a popular tourist destination. There are many different things to do on a caravanning holiday in Devon, from exploring the stunning coastline to visiting the many historic towns and villages.

The county is also home to a number of National Trust properties, making it the perfect place for a caravanning holiday. With so much to see and do, Devon is the perfect destination for a family caravanning holiday.

  1. Lake District – Haven Lakeland Leisure Park

If you’re looking for somewhere a little quieter, the Lake District may be more your style. This beautiful region offers endless opportunities for walks and hikes, as well as stunning views of the lakes and mountains. There are also a number of small towns and villages dotted around the area, each with its own unique character.

  1. Norfolk – Wild Duck Holiday Park

One of the best ways to explore the Norfolk countryside is by caravan. There are numerous caravan parks dotted around the county, so you can easily find one that suits your needs. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to relax or a lively site with plenty of activities, you’re sure to find the perfect place to pitch your caravan.

From picturesque villages and historic churches to wide open beaches and stunning coastline, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

  1. Dorset – Sandhills Holiday Park

If you’re looking for a scenic caravanning holiday in the UK, Dorset is a great option. Home to the stunning countryside, including the Purbeck Hills and the Isle of Portland. There are also plenty of attractions to entertain caravaners, such as Monkey World and the Tank Museum. And with campsites located across the county, it’s easy to find a base that suits your needs.

So whether you’re looking for a quiet rural retreat or an action-packed holiday by the sea, Dorset has something to offer.