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
🧯 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
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
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
Weather-resistant chairs and tables
🍃 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.
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