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RV Storage Guide

Owning an RV is just like having a home on wheels. It gives you the freedom to explore the open road without ever having to get off it, so to speak, since you can technically eat and sleep on the go. However, when your RV is not in use, proper storage is crucial to protect your investment and ensure that it’s ready for your next adventure.

This guide to RV storage will provide you with essential information on RV storage options, best practices, and tips to maintain your RV when stored. Whether you’re a seasoned RVer or a new owner, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to make the right decisions to keep your RV in tip-top shape.

Why Use RV Storage?

There are some key benefits to renting RV storage when your vehicle isn’t in use:

Free up space: Storing your RV off-site frees up valuable driveway or yard space, especially in residential areas with restricted parking or if your property is limited in size.
Easy access: Many storage facilities offer convenient access hours, allowing you to retrieve your RV or perform maintenance as needed.
Security against theft and vandalism: RVs parked in driveways or on the street are vulnerable to theft and vandalism. Storage facilities often have security measures like fencing, lighting, and surveillance cameras to deter crime.

Find the Right RV Storage Space for Your Vehicle

Typically, outdoor storage spaces can readily accommodate your camper, trailer, or motorhome, so let’s explore some of the commonly available size options:

Camper Trailer Storage

Types of Camper Trailers	Storage Dimensions
Small / Lightweight Trailers	Storage options include 10x 15 or 10x20 spaces, depending on the trailer length.
Mid-Sized Trailers	Consider 10x20, 10x25, or 10x30 parking spaces, based on your trailer's overall length.
Large Trailers	Outdoor storage for large trailers under 30 ft might fit in a 10x30 space. However, since these vehicles commonly exceed 30 ft in length, upgrading to larger size would make for a better fit. Some facilities offer 10x40 units, but these may be scarce.
Fifth-Wheel Trailers	Smaller fifth-wheel trailers (around 22 ft) could fit in 10x25 or 10x30 space. However, most trailers of this type, especially those in the common 32-36 ft range, necessitate a 10x40 storage space.
Pop-Up Campers	Most variations of pop-up campers, including a-frame and flip-out pop-ups, fit comfortably in a 10x15 or 10x20 space.
Toy Hauler Trailers	Toy hauler trailers exceeding 20 ft might fit in 10x25, but depending on the overall length, a 10x30 storage space or larger could be required.

Motorhome Storage

Types of Motorhomes	Storage Dimensions
Class A Motorhomes	While a 10x40 parking space might accommodate shorter Class-A vehicles in some cases, finding facilities with sufficiently large storage spots is crucial.
Class B Motorhomes	Parking spaces in either 10x25 or 10x30 sizes can accommodate these vehicles.
Class C Motorhomes	While either a 10x30 or 10x40 space might be an option, availability of bigger outdoor storage sizes is often limited.

RV Storage Considerations

Protecting your RV investment and keeping it in optimal condition requires careful planning. Here are some key things to consider when choosing storage for your RV:

Location and Climate

Circumstances	Explanation
Storing In the Cold	In regions with severe winters, indoor or climate-controlled storage is highly recommended to prevent freeze damage to water systems, batteries, and other components.
Exposure to Sun	Prolonged sun exposure can degrade paint, upholstery, and exterior parts. Consider covered or indoor storage to minimize UV damage.
Storing In Coastal Regions	Salt air and humidity can lead to corrosion. It’s ideal to consider storage options with good ventilation or climate control to mitigate moisture buildup. Bear in mind that indoor RV storage units are not very common.

Security and Protection

Circumstances	Explanation
Fencing & Lighting	Storage facilities should have proper fencing and adequate lighting to keep your belongings secure at all times.
Cameras & Alarms	Facilities with video surveillance and alarm systems provide added security to your items when no one is physically around.
Pest Control	Consider a storage facility that regularly treats pests to limit your RV’s risk of infestation from rodents, insects, and other unwanted guests.
Insurance	RV insurance that covers storage-related incidents will be a big help when it comes to storing your vehicle away from home. Review your policy and discuss coverage options with your insurance provider.

Preparation and Maintenance

Circumstances	Explanation
Cleaning	Thoroughly clean your RV's interior and exterior before storage. Remove any food, trash, or moisture-trapping items.
Winterization	If storing in cold climates, winterize your RV by draining water systems, adding antifreeze, and disconnecting batteries.
Covering	Use a high-quality, breathable RV cover to protect against UV rays, dirt, moisture, and weather elements.
Ventilation	Ensure proper ventilation within the RV, especially during long-term storage, to prevent mold and mildew growth.
Regular Checks	Schedule periodic maintenance checks on your RV, even during storage, to identify and address any potential issues early on.

How Do I Prepare My RV For Storage?

Properly preparing your RV for storage is crucial to protect it from damage and ensure it’s ready for your next adventure. Follow these steps for a smooth storage experience:

Exterior Care

Thorough Cleaning: Wash the RV’s exterior thoroughly, removing dirt, grime, and debris. Pay attention to the roof, undercarriage, and wheels.
Waxing: Apply a coat of wax to protect the paint and fiberglass from UV rays and weather elements.
Covering: Use a high-quality, breathable RV cover that fits snugly. Ensure it allows for proper ventilation to prevent moisture buildup.
Tire Protection: Inflate tires to the recommended pressure and consider using tire covers to prevent UV damage and dry rot.
Slide-Outs: Lubricate slide-out seals and mechanisms to prevent sticking or damage.

Interior Care

Deep Cleaning: Clean the RV’s interior, removing all food, trash, and personal belongings. Vacuum carpets and upholstery, and wipe down all surfaces.
Refrigerator and Freezer: Empty and defrost the refrigerator and freezer. Leave the doors open to prevent mold and odors.
Water Systems: Drain all water tanks (fresh, gray, and black). If storing in a cold climate, winterize the system by adding RV antifreeze.
Batteries: Disconnect or remove batteries and store them in a cool, dry place. Consider using a battery maintainer to prevent discharge.
Propane Tanks: Turn off propane tanks and disconnect them if permitted by the storage facility.
Pest Prevention: Place rodent baits or traps inside the RV to deter unwanted guests.
Ventilation: Open vents and windows slightly to allow for air circulation and prevent moisture buildup.

Preparation for the Winter

Antifreeze: Add RV antifreeze to all water lines and tanks to prevent freezing and damage.
Water Heater Bypass: Activate the water heater bypass to prevent antifreeze from entering the water heater.
Insulation: Consider insulating exposed pipes and other vulnerable areas for additional freeze protection.

Where to Store Your RV

Our locations come equipped with security surveillance, outdoor parking, affordable payments and more. We have suitable RV and trailer storage sizes available across the country. Learn more about a self-storage facility near you! Still have questions about storage? Check out our handy FAQ page for more info!