Spring has arrived, and it’s time to wake your campervan from hibernation! Before you hit the road for new adventures, a proper clean and a few essential checks will make sure everything runs smoothly and comfortably. Whether you’re heading off for weekend getaways or longer journeys, this guide will help you prep your van for a safe and fresh start to the season.

Essential Checks

Battery

Test your leisure and vehicle batteries to make sure they’re holding charge properly. Cold weather can reduce battery efficiency, so if you’re noticing slow startups or weak lighting, it might be time to recharge or replace them.

Lights

Check that all your lights—headlights, brake lights, indicators, interior, and spotlights—are working correctly. It’s a quick job that’s crucial for safety, especially if you’re planning to drive at night or in remote areas.

Gas and Water Pipework

Inspect for any cracks, leaks, or corrosion in your gas and water systems. Run water through the pipes and test your gas appliances. It’s also a good idea to check gas regulators and pipe connections for wear.

Oil Level

Top up or change your engine oil to keep everything running smoothly. If your camper’s been parked up for months, old oil can degrade and become less effective at protecting your engine.

Windscreen Wipers and Screen Wash

Give your wipers a test—if they’re streaky or split, replace them. Also, refill your screen wash reservoir with a fresh solution for clear visibility during those scenic drives.

Tyre Pressure

Check the pressure in all your tyres, including the spare. Tyres can lose air over time, and uneven pressure can affect fuel efficiency and road safety. While you’re at it, inspect for wear or cracks.

Fuel

Make sure you’ve got enough fresh fuel in the tank. Old fuel can go stale if it’s been sitting for months. Top it up and take a short drive to circulate fluids through the engine.

Cleaning

Kitchen Area

Wipe down all surfaces, clean out cupboards, and double-check expiry dates on your food supplies. Give your fridge a deep clean and leave the door ajar when not in use to avoid smells.

Bathroom

Scrub the toilet, shower area, and any sinks with eco-friendly cleaners. Refill toiletries and check your grey water tank for any build-up. A fresh-smelling bathroom is always a win!

Clean Solar Panels

Dust, pollen, or bird mess can reduce the efficiency of your solar panels. Give them a gentle wipe with a soft cloth and water—no harsh chemicals needed.

Wash Your Campervan

Give the exterior a proper wash, including the roof. Winter grime, salt, and dirt can damage paintwork over time. A clean van not only looks great but protects your investment.

Clean Cab Area

Don’t forget the driver’s seat! Vacuum floors, clean dashboards, and clear out glovebox clutter. It’s your command centre, so make it feel good to be behind the wheel again.

Clean Awning

Open up your awning and check for any mildew, mold, or damage. Give it a clean with warm soapy water and let it dry fully before rolling it back up.

Water Tanks

Flush out both fresh and waste water tanks with a tank cleaner or vinegar solution. Rinse thoroughly and let them air dry if possible. This prevents unpleasant smells and keeps water tasting fresh.

Light Maintenance

Touch Up Painting

Look over your van for chips, rust spots, or scratches in the paintwork. Touching them up early prevents corrosion and keeps your camper looking fresh for the year ahead.

Laundry

Cushions and Bedding

Wash all cushion covers, blankets, and bedding to remove any musty smells picked up over winter. Fresh linens make your camper feel like home again—and it’s always nice to climb into a clean bed after a day of adventuring.

Looking for a Bespoke Campervan Conversion?

At Camper Camper you’re guaranteed that your campervan will be a high quality bespoke campervan conversion which seamlessly blends form and function, creating a stylish, comfortable, and practical space for off-grid adventures or full-time van life. 🚐💨

See our Portfolio to see a range of van conversions.

Get your Free Quote Now by calling 0151 2457 755 or complete our online enquiry form

A quality bespoke campervan conversion is a thoughtfully designed, expertly crafted, and highly functional transformation of a van into a home-on-wheels tailored to an individual’s needs and lifestyle. Here’s what sets apart a top-tier custom conversion:

1. Smart Space Utilization

• Ergonomic Layout: A well-planned floor plan ensures seamless movement inside the van, making efficient use of available space.
• Modular Design: Foldable, multi-purpose furniture (e.g., a bed that doubles as a seating area) maximizes usability.

2. Premium Materials & Craftsmanship

• Durable Cabinetry: Lightweight but sturdy wood or composite materials (e.g., birch plywood, bamboo) for longevity.
• High-Quality Finishes: Soft-close drawers, stylish countertops, and seamless edge banding provide a polished look.
• Precision Joinery: Expert carpentry ensures smooth finishes, secure fittings, and resistance to travel vibrations.

3. Comfort & Liveability

• Insulation & Climate Control: Proper insulation keeps the van warm in winter and cool in summer.
• Ventilation & Airflow: Roof vents, windows, and extractor fans prevent condensation and improve air quality.
• Heating & Cooling: Diesel or LPG heaters for warmth; optional A/C or passive cooling strategies for hot climates.

4. Electrical & Off-Grid Power System

• Solar Panels: A robust off-grid power system with MPPT controllers and lithium batteries for long-term sustainability.
• Inverter & Shore Power: A high-quality inverter allows the use of household appliances, while shore power hookups provide backup options.
• LED Lighting: Dimmable LED lights offer efficient and customizable illumination.

5. Water & Plumbing System

• Fresh & Grey Water Tanks: A reliable water storage and drainage system for off-grid convenience.
• Filtration System: Ensures clean drinking water from various sources.
• Hot Water Availability: Options like a Truma boiler or gas/electric water heater for showers and washing up.

6. Functional Kitchen Setup

• Built-in Stove & Sink: Integrated gas or induction cooking with a deep sink for washing dishes.
• Ample Storage: Overhead cabinets, slide-out pantry, and under-seat compartments for food and utensils.
• Compressor Fridge: Energy-efficient refrigeration for off-grid travel.

7. Sleeping & Seating Solutions

• Fixed or Convertible Bed: A cozy, high-density memory foam mattress for restful sleep.
• Swivel Seats & Lounge Area: Driver and passenger seats that rotate to create a social space.

8. Safety & Roadworthiness

• Certified Gas & Electrical Installations: Ensuring compliance with UK safety standards.
• Crash-Tested Seating: If extra travel seats are installed, they should be crash-tested for safety.
• Fire & CO Detectors: Essential for alerting to potential hazards.

9. Personalization & Aesthetics

• Custom Interior Styling: Aesthetic choices tailored to the owner’s preference, from modern minimalist to rustic charm.
• Unique Features: Such as hidden compartments, fold-out desks, or bike storage.
• Outdoor Extras: Awning, roof racks, or an outdoor shower for adventure seekers.

At Camper Camper you’re guaranteed that your campervan will be a high quality bespoke campervan conversion which seamlessly blends form and function, creating a stylish, comfortable, and practical space for off-grid adventures or full-time van life. 🚐💨

See our Portfolio to see a range of van conversions.

Get your Free Quote Now by calling 0151 2457 755 or complete our online enquiry form

Yes, VW campervans generally hold their value well, and some even appreciate over time.

1. Strong Brand & Cult Following

VW has a long-standing reputation for quality campervans, dating back to the iconic VW Type 2 (T1 and T2). The modern Transporter-based campers, like the VW California, continue this tradition, making them desirable and collectible.

2. High Demand & Limited Supply

VW campervans have a loyal community, and demand often outstrips supply—especially for well-maintained older models or fully equipped factory conversions like the VW California. The strong second-hand market keeps prices high.

3. Durable & Well-Built

VW campers are known for their solid build quality. If properly maintained, they last for decades, helping them retain value compared to cheaper conversions on less reputable base vans.

4. Classic Models Appreciate in Value

Vintage VW Campers (T1, T2, T3): Classic models have skyrocketed in value, with some fetching six-figure sums.

T4 & T5 Models: These are becoming modern classics, with good examples appreciating.

T6 & T6.1 (California Models): These hold their value very well due to their premium features.

5. Conversion vs. Factory Models

VW California (Factory Conversion): Holds value the best as it’s a purpose-built VW model with a solid resale market.

A high-quality bespoke campervan conversion by a reputable company like Camper Camper will retain its value over time.

6. Rising Popularity of Van Life

With more people seeking flexible travel options, campervan values have remained strong. Post-pandemic, demand surged, and resale prices have stayed high.

7. Depreciation Rates

New VW California: Depreciates slowly compared to other campervans. After 3–5 years, it retains around 70-80% of its value.

Older Models (10+ years): Can still command high resale prices if well maintained.

If you’re considering a VW campervan for your off-grid weekends, it’s a solid investment. Buy well, maintain it properly, and it should hold (or even gain) value over time. 🚐💨

East Devon District Council (EDDC) has launched a consultation to explore the possibility of allowing campervans to park in seafront car parks.

If the plans are approved, the scheme will be extended to all EDDC car parks in Exmouth.

The consultation is open until Thursday, February 13, and EDDC has stated that if there are no serious objections, the initiative will move forward. The primary aim is to gather feedback from local residents and car park users regarding the current overnight parking arrangements in Maer Road car park and along Queen’s Drive Echelon.

Through this consultation, EDDC is seeking input on how the overnight stop-over should be structured to best serve both visitors and the local community. A council spokesman explained, “We aim to understand how these arrangements are perceived, identify any challenges or concerns, and explore opportunities for improvement. Additionally, we are seeking suggestions on how the overnight stop-over offer can be enhanced to better meet the needs of users and ensure it aligns with the expectations of both residents and visitors.”

By participating in this consultation, the public has an opportunity to influence future decisions on overnight campervan parking in Exmouth. Whether you are a local resident, campervan owner, or regular visitor, your feedback will play a key role in shaping the outcome.

Tom Davies felt one part of his trip could be massively improved.

A dad turned a holiday disappointment into a successful business by accident. Tom Davies, 35, from Crosby, travelled to Iceland in 2017 with his wife Kayleigh and son Harry, who was six months old at the time.

There was one thing the family felt let down about on their break. Speaking to the ECHO, Tom said: “We did a trip to Iceland – me, my wife and baby at six months old. We travelled in a campervan.

They were disappointed by how little work had gone into improving the campervan, with an old fashioned interior and basic amenities. At around the same time, Tom was preparing to leave his dad’s manufacturing business to work for himself but his initial plans had fallen through.

He said: “My background is in engineering. I’d been working for my dad since I left school. It got to the point where it was clear that my auld fella wasn’t going to be retiring anytime soon. I wanted to do something of my own.