Mid-Winter RV Check: 7 Simple Things Every Camper Should Do Before Spring

Even though your camper is winterized and resting for the season, winter weather can still cause little surprises. A quick mid-winter RV check helps you catch issues early — before they become expensive or overwhelming in the spring.

Here’s an expanded, easy-to-follow checklist plus what to do if you find a problem in each category.

1. Check for Moisture & Condensation

Look for:

• Damp corners

• Foggy or wet windows

• Moisture under mattresses or cushions

• Musty smells inside cabinets

If you find moisture:

✔ Dry it immediately — use towels, paper towels, or even a small portable heater.
✔ Prop open cabinets & storage areas to improve airflow.
✔ Add moisture absorbers (DampRid, charcoal bags, silica).
✔ Check seals around windows — moisture may signal a leak.

Moisture is one of the biggest winter enemies, but it’s manageable when caught early.

2. Look for Critter Intruders

Look for:

• Droppings

• Shredded tissue or insulation

• Chew marks

• Food crumbs or packaging damage

If you find signs of critters:

✔ Remove all nesting material immediately.
✔ Disinfect surfaces with a mild cleaner.
✔ Set non-toxic traps or deterrents (peppermint oil works surprisingly well).
✔ Seal any entry points — check under sinks, around wiring, or slide-outs.
✔ Remove all food or store it in sealed containers if you leave anything inside.

If the infestation seems large, it may require a pest professional — but early signs are easy to handle.

For more information, read our blog PROTECTING YOUR RV FROM RODENT DAMAGE

3. Inspect Roof Seals, Caulking & Exterior Seams

Look for:

• Cracking

• Gaps

• Lifting edges

• Soft spots

• Water stains around windows

If you see a seal or caulking issue:

✔ Mark the area so you can easily find it again.
✔ Take a picture to reference later.
✔ Wait for warmer weather before re-caulking — most sealants don’t cure well in freezing temps.
✔ BUT — if it looks like an active leak, you can:

• Use temporary RV-safe seal tape (Eternabond)

• Cover the area until proper repair is possible

Catching these now prevents big, frustrating leaks in April.

4. Check Tire Pressure & Condition

Look for:

• Low PSI

• Flat spots

• Cracking sidewalls

• Dry rot

• Tires that look “squished” under the weight

If you find tire issues:

✔ Refill tires to recommended PSI (written on sidewall).
✔ Roll the RV forward a few inches to shift weight off one spot.
✔ If cracking is visible, plan to replace the tire before spring travel.
✔ Use tire covers to protect from UV damage and cold.

Tires age faster when sitting still — a mid-winter check helps slow that aging dramatically.

5. Test Batteries & Electrical Components

Look for:

• Dim interior lights

• Slow leveling systems

• Clicking but not starting generators

• Battery panels showing low charge

If batteries seem weak:

✔ Disconnect them from parasitic loads if your RV allows it.
✔ Use a smart charger or maintainer to top them off.
✔ If they’re freezing, warm them before trying to charge.
✔ Check water levels in lead-acid batteries (if applicable).

A battery that fully dies in winter may not revive — catching low voltage early can save you the cost of a new one.

6. Make Sure Your RV Cover or Skirting Is Secure

Look for:

• Loose straps

• Wind flapping

• Tears forming

• Gaps that allow critters underneath

If the cover/skirting is loose:

✔ Tighten straps and secure buckles.
✔ Use bungee cords or rope to reduce flapping in wind.
✔ Patch any small tears with repair tape.
✔ Check vents and avoid blocking them — airflow prevents mold.

Failure to secure skirting or covers can lead to scratching, water intrusion, or critters sneaking in.

7. Step Inside & Do a Quick “Nose Test”

You’re checking for:

• Musty odors

• Sour smells

• Electrical burning scent

• Something that feels “off”

If something smells wrong:

✔ Musty = moisture → go back to Section 1 and re-check.
✔ Sour = food or fabric left behind → remove and clean.
✔ Burning/electrical = DO NOT ignore.

• Check outlets

• Inspect the fuse panel

• Make sure nothing is plugged in
  ✔ If unsure, leave the RV unplugged until you investigate or consult a tech.

Your sense of smell can catch problems earlier than your eyes.

🌲 Why a Mid-Winter Check Matters

A 20-minute walk-through now can save you:

• Hours of cleanup

• Hundreds of dollars in preventable repairs

• Headaches on opening day

• The heartbreak of discovering critters turned your RV into a condo

Plus — it’s a fun excuse to visit the campground and see your Happy Acres neighbors.

Also in News