Choosing the Best Caravan Steps

Finding the right caravan steps for your vehicle and for your family isn't as easy as it seems. Unless you have professional advice or some very thorough research of your own to fall back on, getting it right is mostly a case of trial and error. That's precisely why any respectable caravan parts and accessory retailer will stock many different makes and models of caravan steps. Here are a few basic things to consider before you make your selection:

Single or Double
In terms of design, caravan and motorhome steps come with one or two-step platforms. The obvious advantage of owning the single-step version is the fact that it's smaller; therefore, lighter and more compact. They're the obvious choice for smaller caravans, where space is at a premium, because they need to be stored inside when not in use. Alternatively, they can be stored underneath your caravan, if you're on the pitch. Because it's higher and narrower, though, it's not as stable and it's bound to put more strain on your knees.

With caravan double steps, you may have a harder time manoeuvring them because of their size and their design. However, there are folding, stackable and collapsible models that could help save space and take the fuss out of fitting them. If you opt for a standard, non-foldable double step that can't be stowed away in or under the caravan, then be sure to avoid driving into the step. The advantage is that the steps are shallower and more stable, though you should take care not to obstruct the door if the pitch is uneven.

Soft or Hard
Most caravan steps are made with metals and alloys. Don't let the term 'aluminium alloy' fool you into thinking that this type of material is not as reliable or as hardwearing as steel. Quite to the contrary, in an alloy like this, the aluminium is reinforced with a much harder metal, and so it tends to be rust-resistant, light, and very hard. So aluminium alloy steps are usually more expensive than the steel version - and rightfully so.

Some motorhome steps are made of plastic. Not only are they light and cheap, but they're also easy to clean and rust-free. Because they tend to be made with strengthening ribs, though, for added support, they won't normally fold. Milenco steps are a very reliable and generally over-engineered and one of our best selling brands.

Tread
The surface is also very important. Whether you choose caravan double steps or singles, you'll need a non-slip tread to be able to use them safely in any kind of weather. Look for rubber tread plates, metal mesh, moulded tread or any other type of slip-resistant surface. It's not unusual to see caravanners glue bits of carpet to their steps, but it's not a long-term solution, and it's also not very hygienic. A must-have for those who need visuals is the glow-in-the-dark cover that goes on the tread to make your caravan steps that much more obvious and sturdy in low light. Of course, because most steps are kept outside in all kinds of weather, it's essential that you clean yours and keep it dry at all times. Otherwise, it could become very slippery very fast.

Accessibility
A very important factor in choosing your steps should be the stability of the design. It's an intrinsic quality that depends on the angle of the legs, and you need to get it right the first time around. Obviously, four legs are more stable than three, and the base of the leg itself helps make the steps more stable. The wider the leg, the less likely it is to tilt. Ideally, the legs should be splayed outwards as much as possible, they should have rubber feet or pegs, and they should have a wide base. A frame around the base can also prevent it from sinking on soft ground.

Nowadays, steps come with all sorts of new-fangled doodads to make them easier to use at night. LED lamps at the edge of the stairs help make them visible for you, your visitors and other drivers using the pitch.

Handrails or support handles are extremely handy for people who have trouble bending or kneeling. If your caravan steps don't come with one of these handrails, then you could look into buying some that you can fit onto your steps yourself. Be sure to check for compatibility, though.