It's not the most glamorous topic, but it's a very real one: pests in the motorhome. Mice, ants and other creatures can get into the camper, especially when it spends time in storage, and cause serious damage (rodents in particular, which gnaw through wiring, insulation and upholstery). With prevention, though, they're almost always avoidable. Here's how to protect yourself.
Mice: the worst enemy
Rodents are the most feared pest because the damage they cause is expensive: they chew through electrical wiring (risking a fault or even fire), insulation, pipes and upholstery, and leave behind dirt and bad smells. They look for shelter and food, especially in autumn and winter and when the camper is parked in rural or open areas. Preventing them is key.
How to prevent mice
- Don't leave food in a stored camper (not even crumbs): this is what attracts them the most. Empty the pantry.
- Clean thoroughly before putting it into storage (food scraps, dirt).
- Seal off possible entry points: mice can squeeze through tiny gaps (cable runs, the underside of the vehicle). Check and seal openings.
- Repellents: there are repellents (ultrasonic devices, scented products, certain plants) that put them off; use them during long spells in storage, especially in the countryside.
- Where you store it matters: an enclosed car park carries less risk than open countryside (see where to store it).
- Check it periodically during long storage periods.
Ants and other insects
- Ants: drawn to food and sweet things; keep everything sealed in airtight containers and clean. If they get in, find the entry point and cut off the trail.
- Cockroaches and others: cleanliness and hygiene are the best defence.
- Insect screens to keep flying insects out (see insects and bites).
If you already have a pest problem
Act as soon as possible: find the entry point and seal it, clean thoroughly, and use traps or suitable methods (ideally ones that don't leave the animal decomposing inside). If there's damage to wiring, check it for safety. For serious infestations, consider professional help.
In short
Pests (mice especially) can cause expensive damage to a camper, particularly while it's parked up, but they're preventable by not leaving food behind, cleaning thoroughly, sealing entry points and using repellents. The step you can take today: before storing your camper, clear out all food, clean it thoroughly and check for possible entry points, using repellents if you're leaving it in the countryside; preventing a mouse now saves you an expensive electrical repair later. Pair it with where to store your motorhome.