Caravan Departure Routine: What to Do Before Leaving a Campsite (2026 UK Guide)

Leaving a campsite with your caravan or motorhome is usually quick and straightforward, but following a simple departure routine helps avoid forgotten equipment, damage, or delays on the road.

Many experienced caravanners follow a short departure checklist before leaving their pitch to make sure everything is packed away safely and the vehicle is ready for travel.

In this guide we explain the simple caravan departure routine used by UK caravanners in 2026.

Quick Caravan Departure Summary

Before leaving a campsite, most caravanners follow these steps:

1. Pack away outdoor furniture

2. Disconnect water systems

3. Disconnect electric hook-up

4. Raise corner steadies

5. Hitch the caravan to the tow car

6. Check lights, mirrors, and safety cables

7. Do a final walk-around of the pitch

Following this simple routine ensures you leave the campsite safely and without forgetting important equipment.

Step-by-Step Caravan Departure Routine

Step 1 – Pack Away Outdoor Furniture

Start by packing away your outdoor living area.

This includes:

• Camping chairs

• Tables

• BBQs or Cadac cookers

• Outdoor mats

• Windbreaks

Make sure everything is dry before packing where possible.

If you followed the correct setup routine when arriving on your pitch, packing away your caravan or motorhome becomes much quicker.

If you need help with the full setup process, see our guide

Caravan & Motorhome Campsite Setup Guide (2026 UK Edition).

Step 2 – Pack Away the Awning

If you used an awning, begin taking it down once the outdoor area is clear.

Typical process:

• Remove storm straps

• Remove pegs

• Fold awning panels

• Store poles or deflate air awnings

If you’re unsure how to do this safely, see our guide:

How to Put an Awning on a Caravan (2026 Step-by-Step Guide)

Step 3 – Disconnect the Water System

Next disconnect your water supply.

This usually includes:

• Water pump

• Aquaroll or water container

• Waste water container

Drain hoses and store them neatly.

Step 4 – Disconnect the Electric Hook-Up

Always disconnect the electric hook-up cable before preparing the caravan for towing.

Best practice is:

1. Turn off power inside the caravan

2. Unplug from the campsite bollard first

3. Then unplug from the caravan

Coil the cable neatly to avoid damage.

Step 5 – Raise the Corner Steadies

Once all utilities are disconnected, raise the caravan corner steadies.

Remember:

Corner steadies stabilise the caravan but do not lift it.

Make sure they are fully raised before moving the caravan.

Step 6 – Hitch the Caravan

Now reconnect the caravan to your tow vehicle.

Typical hitching steps include:

• Align tow ball and hitch

• Lower hitch coupling

• Attach breakaway cable

• Connect electrics

• Raise the jockey wheel

Check that the hitch lock is secure before driving.

Step 7 – Final Safety Check

Before leaving the campsite, walk around the caravan and check:

• Hitch correctly attached

• Corner steadies raised

• Windows and rooflights closed

• Caravan door locked

• Electric cable packed away

This final check prevents common departure mistakes.

Common Departure Mistakes

Even experienced caravanners occasionally forget small details.

Common mistakes include:

• Forgetting to raise corner steadies

• Leaving the electric cable connected

• Forgetting wheel chocks

• Leaving roof vents open

• Driving away with the handbrake still applied

A quick walk-around check helps prevent these issues.

Leaving Your Pitch Respectfully

Before you leave, it’s good campsite etiquette to:

• Pick up any rubbish

• Leave the pitch tidy

• Check you haven’t left pegs or equipment behind

This helps keep campsites welcoming for other visitors.

FAQs

How long does it take to pack up a caravan pitch?

Most caravanners can pack up and depart in around 15–30 minutes, depending on whether an awning is used.

Should you disconnect electric first or last?

Electric hook-up should be disconnected after packing away the awning and outdoor equipment but before hitching the caravan.

Do you check caravan lights before leaving?

Yes. Always check that the brake lights, indicators, and tail lights are working correctly before driving away.

Final Thoughts

Leaving a campsite with a caravan or motorhome becomes quick and easy once you follow a simple routine. Packing away equipment, disconnecting utilities, and performing a final safety check ensures a smooth and stress-free departure.