🌬️⚡ Battling the Elements: How to Prepare Your Caravan for Wind & Storms

Caravanning is all about chasing freedom — but sometimes, the weather has other plans. Whether you’re pitched on a breezy coastal clifftop or caught in a surprise downpour in the countryside, wind and storm prep is essential for staying safe and protecting your pride and joy.

Here’s your go-to guide for getting your caravan storm-ready — with practical tips, must-have kit, and calm-in-a-crisis advice.

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Why Wind Matters

Caravans are light and have a lot of surface area, making them vulnerable to strong gusts and sudden weather changes.

Even moderate wind can cause problems with:

• Stability and rocking

• Damage to awnings and accessories

• Fallen branches or debris

• Flooding from blocked drainage

That’s why a little forward planning goes a long way.

🔟 10 Storm Prep Tips for Caravanners

1. Check the Forecast – and Plan Ahead

Use trusted sources like the Met Office or apps like Windy or BBC Weather.

Look for:

• Wind speeds over 30mph (15 knots) — awnings become vulnerable

• Sudden drops in pressure or storm warnings

• Heavy rainfall that could cause flooding on-site

2. Pitch Smart

If you’re choosing a site or spot:

• Shelter behind natural barriers like hedges or buildings

• Avoid exposed hillsides or clifftops in unsettled weather

• Point your caravan’s front into the wind (towing hitch first)

• Use your Car or Van as a windbreak

3. Reinforce Your Awning

Awnings are often the first casualties in high winds.

• Use storm straps and extra pegging points

• Lower one corner slightly to help with water runoff

• In extreme weather, it’s safer to take it down altogether

Via Mondo Awning Tie Down Kit

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🛠️ Pro Tip: If you’re not sure—remove the awning. It’s easier to replace a few pegs than an entire ripped canvas.

4. Secure Everything Outside

Loose kit = flying missiles in a storm.

• Tie down water carriers, camping furniture, and BBQs

• Store anything lightweight back inside

• Fold in bike racks or aerials if possible

5. Stabilise Your Van

Use corner steadies and chocks on all wheels.

If expecting big gusts:

• Consider dropping tyre pressure slightly (check your manual)

• Add water to your on-board tank or aquaroll for extra ballast

  
  

Wheel Chocks set of 2

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6. Close Vents and Windows

Before the wind hits:

• Shut roof lights, skylights and windows

• Lock doors and check handles are clicked in

• Make sure pop-tops or air vents are secure

7. Double-Check Your Drainage

Heavy rain can pool quickly.

• Make sure gutters and awning channels are clear

• Check that the pitch you’re on allows water to run away (avoid dips!)

8. Have an Emergency Kit Ready

Pack a small storm kit with:

• Torch or headlamp (plus batteries)

• Power bank for phones

• Small toolkit

• Duct tape (always!)

• Emergency contact info & site manager’s number

10 Piece Companion Toolbox

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9. Know When to Stay – or Go

   
   

If conditions get truly dangerous:

• Don’t try to “wait it out” if you feel unsafe

• It’s OK to pack up early, leave the awning, or move to sheltered accommodation

• Your safety always comes first — not your pitch fee or gear!

10. After the Storm: Check for Damage

Once the weather clears:

• Inspect awning poles, window seals, vents and roof

• Look underneath the caravan for loose cables or debris

• Let everything dry out properly to avoid mould or damp

Stormsure Caravan and Awning Repair Kit

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🧠 Final Thoughts

No one wants to think about bad weather on a caravan trip — but with the right prep, you can ride out even the wildest UK weather with confidence. Remember: storm-ready doesn’t mean paranoid, it means prepared.

☔ Safe van, calm mind, better holiday.

💬 Got your own tips for storm prep?

We’d love to hear them! Share your experience with us on our Facebook or Instagram pages.

👉 Need storm straps, rock pegs, or waterproof kit?

Samson Heavy Ground Screw tent Pegs 20 pack

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Check out our caravan essentials range at IDS Camping & Leisure.