What to include on your motorhome checklist

When preparing for a motorhome holiday, there can be so much to remember that it is easy to forget at least one thing. This is why writing a checklist that you can use before every trip is so useful and can help you avoid overlooking something important.

Perhaps the first thing to include on your list is your motorhome insurance.

A month or so before you plan to hit the road, it may be wise to consult a motorhome insurance buyers' guide to check that your current premium offers everything you want it to.

This could include breakdown recovery and protection for when you are driving abroad. By checking that your policy is as all-encompassing and up-to-date as it should be, you will have the peace of mind you are protected, and if not, you can look for a new product. At the same time, you might wish to search for travel insurance.

When packing, a good idea is to keep a container of goods that you will only use when you are in your motorhome. This can make preparing for your holiday much easier and means you are not running around your kitchen looking for different things. Furthermore, it reduces the chance of turning up at the campsite and realising you have forgotten something vital.

Into this box you might wish to place essentials for the kitchen, like saucepans, a sieve, a measuring jug, a tin opener, a corkscrew, a portable kettle and a toaster. You can also add lightweight, non-breakable plates, cups and bowls, along with cutlery.

Away from the kitchen, you could pack separate towels and bedding to use in your motorhome.

Of course, there are a few essentials you will definitely want in your unit, including things you will need while driving.

This includes your driving licence, insurance documents, breakdown cover, MOT certificate, warranty details and vehicle log book. In addition, you may need a warning triangle, high-visibility jacket, GB sticker for when in Europe, jump leads, battery charger and spare keys.

In terms of safety, a first aid kit and smoke alarm are a must - and you should pack spare batteries for the latter. A carbon monoxide detector is also a worthwhile investment if your motorhome uses gas, while a torch is always useful in the event of a power cut.

There are a few more essentials to pack. Among these are spare gas cylinders, or extension cables, depending on what kind of power your motorhome uses. You could also include a basic repair kit for your vehicle and a ground mat to lie on should you need to take a look under it.

Non-slip runners can see you get out of a sticky situation if your motorhome is stuck in the mud, while ramps and a spirit level may help you to park on a level surface.

These are all practical considerations, but don't forget about entertainment as well. It can be a good idea to build up a collection of books, DVDs and board games ahead of your trip and keep them to use while you are on your holiday.

Finally, before you set off, check that both the fresh and waste water tanks are empty, the gas has been switched off at the cylinder and all the internal doors and windows are firmly closed.

With so much to remember, it's easy to see the benefits of having a checklist.