Seasonal Caravan Pitch Checklist (2026 Guide)

For caravans staying on one site from spring to autumn with an awning

Setting up a seasonal pitch properly at the start of the 2026 caravanning season saves time, prevents damage, and makes your caravan far more comfortable for long-term stays. This checklist covers everything you should check, fit, or secure before settling in for the season.

🚐 Caravan Positioning & Stability

Checklist

• Caravan levelled front-to-back and side-to-side

• Corner steadies lowered firmly (not lifting)

• Wheels securely chocked

• Handbrake fully applied

• Adequate space left for awning and airflow

Recommended Products

• Levelling ramps

• Heavy-duty wheel chocks

• Spirit level (caravan-specific)

🔌 Electric Hook-Up (Seasonal Use)

Checklist

• Hook-up cable fully unwound

• Cable routed safely away from walkways

• RCD and MCB tested on connection

• Outdoor-rated socket used in awning (if permitted)

• No overloaded extension leads

Recommended Products

• 25m hook-up cable (orange, outdoor-rated)

• Weatherproof outdoor socket

• Low-wattage extension lead for awnings

🔥 Gas Setup for the Season

Checklist

• Gas bottle secured upright

• Regulator firmly attached

• Hose checked for cracks, stiffness, or age

• Appliances tested (hob, heater, fridge)

• Ventilation grills kept clear

Recommended Products

• Gas bottle strap or holder

• New gas hose and regulator (season-start replacement is best practice)

• Gas level indicator

🚿 Water & Waste Setup

Checklist

• Fresh water container cleaned before use

• Food-grade hose used for filling

• Pump connections checked for leaks

• Waste pipes sloped correctly

• Waste container emptied and cleaned regularly

Recommended Products

• Food-grade water hose

• Submersible water pump

• Waste pipe kit

• Large-capacity waste container

⛺ Awning Setup (Seasonal Rated)

Checklist

• Awning rail cleaned before fitting

• Seasonal or heavy-duty awning used

• Awning fully tensioned

• Storm straps fitted front and rear

• Extra pegs used on stress points

• Draught skirt and wheel arch cover fitted

• Adequate ventilation left open

Recommended Products

• Seasonal-rated awning

• Storm strap kit

• Heavy-duty awning pegs

• Draught skirt

• Wheel arch cover

🧯 Safety Essentials

Checklist

• Smoke alarm tested

• Carbon monoxide alarm tested

• Fire extinguisher in date and accessible

• Fire blanket fitted (recommended)

• Emergency exits clear

Recommended Products

• Carbon monoxide alarm

• Fire extinguisher

• Fire blanket

🔒 Security for a Seasonal Pitch

Checklist

• Wheel clamp fitted

• Hitch lock fitted

• Awning secured with tie-downs

• Doors, windows, and lockers locked when away

Recommended Products

• Heavy-duty wheel clamp

• Hitch lock

• Awning tie-down kit

🛋 Awning Comfort & Living Space

Checklist

• Breathable awning carpet fitted

• Furniture suitable for outdoor/awning use

• Storage units designed for awnings

• Windbreaks fitted if pitch is exposed

• Items secured when leaving site

Recommended Products

• Breathable awning carpet

• Folding awning storage units

• Weather-resistant chairs and tables

• Windbreaks

🍃 Ongoing Checks During the 2026 Season

These should be checked regularly throughout the season:

• Awning straps and pegs after bad weather

• Tyre pressures monthly

• Signs of damp or condensation

• Gas connections and hose condition

• Alarm operation

Final Tip for 2026

A seasonal pitch setup isn’t something to rush. Spending a little extra time — and using the right equipment — at the start of the 2026 season means fewer problems, lower repair costs, and a far more enjoyable stay.

FAQ

Q: What is a seasonal caravan pitch?

A seasonal pitch is when a caravan stays on the same site for part of the year, usually from spring to autumn, with an awning left in place.

Q: Can I leave my awning up all season?

Most sites allow this, but many require seasonal-rated awnings and may ask for storm straps or removal during high winds.

Q: Do I need a wheel clamp on a seasonal pitch?

Yes. Even on secure sites, a wheel clamp is strongly recommended and often required by site rules or insurance.