You’re saying goodbye to your RV until next season–which means you need long-term RV storage. When the off-season rolls around (Not sure when RV season begins and ends? Check out this article), you’ll want to store your RV in a safe, clean area. Otherwise, you may return to your RV in April only to discover pests, mold, roof damage, or worse, that your RV has been stolen!
So, where should you store your RV when it’s not in use? The short answer: somewhere where you can confidently leave your rig behind and know it’ll be there when you get back.
Besides tracking down the right RV storage space, there are other pre-storage tips to keep in mind. Storing your RV for an extended period requires careful preparation if you want to protect your vehicle from its natural enemies (direct sunlight, storms, and rodents) and any human threats (theft or misuse).
We’re going to look through six long-term RV storage tips that every RVer can benefit from!
Key Takeaways
- The cost of RV storage will hinge on the storage type: outdoor, covered, or indoor facility.
- When storing your RV outdoors for long periods of time, you still need to check on it every few months to ensure it’s protected from the elements (and rodents).
Tip #1: Calculate the Costs of Long Term RV Storage
Before deciding on a storage method for your RV, look at your budget. What can you reasonably afford over the storage period?
Now, look up the storage options you have in your area. Here’s a general breakdown of what to expect.
Climate-controlled storage is the most expensive option because it offers protection from damaging UV rays, extreme temperature fluctuations, and above-average humidity levels. So, remember, year-round protection comes at a price, but peace of mind about temperature-related damage is priceless.
By contrast, open storage is the cheapest (a parking lot, storage yard, or unpaved lot). If you go this route, don’t expect any white glove treatment here. It’s just a place to park. But there are ways to secure your RV in open storage (that we’ll get to later in this article).
For long-term storage, monthly rent is preferred over annual fees–unless you know you’re going to be storing your RV for over a year.
| Type of Storage | Billing Period | Cost |
| Uncovered | Monthly | $30-$100 |
| Covered | Monthly | $50-$150 |
| Enclosed | Monthly | $100-$400 |
| Climate Controlled | Yearly | Up to $5,400 |
Remember, these are general guidelines to help you choose a storage type that fits your budget.
Tip #1: While these cost averages will give you a rough idea, it’s always best to look at RV storage prices in your specific area for a more accurate insight into pricing.
Tip #2: Monthly rent is common for long-term storage, but some facilities offer a discount if you commit to storing it for a year or more.
Tip #2: Choose the Right Storage Facility
There are four main types of RV storage and two main ways of securing that storage.
Here’s a rundown of each type to help you decide which is best for your RV.
Types of RV Storage
Type #1: Open Storage
Open storage is when you park your RV in an open lot. It may be a paved lot or a dirt lot, depending on your area. Some facilities are fenced, offering a secure place for your RV, while others are open and more accessible. While security is a greater concern in these unfenced lots, entering and exiting the space will likely be more convenient (as these unpaved lots are often pull-through storage options).
Type #2: Covered Storage
Covered storage is an RV-friendly option. Here, you’ll park your rig under a roof-like structure with open sides. This mitigates damage from UV rays and protects your RV roof from debris or possible storm damage.
Type #3: Enclosed Storage
Enclosed storage means your camper has its own little house with three walls (and a roof), all of which will protect your investment from prying eyes or parking accidents.
If you live in an area with a higher crime rate, we highly recommend enclosed storage.
Type #4: Climate-Controlled Storage
Certain indoor storage facilities offer climate-controlled RV storage. These spaces are not only air-conditioned but also humidity-controlled. Humidity-controlled settings prevent mold and mildew, while air conditioning prevents heat damage and damage to your RV’s plumbing.
A climate-controlled facility is your best bet for security and longevity. You won’t have to worry about rodents chewing their way in or mushrooms growing inside your cabinets. (Not that that’s happened to me…)
Peer-to-Peer vs. Traditional RV Storage
There are two main options for storing an RV: peer-to-peer storage using local property or a traditional storage facility.
Of course, there are some RVers who have space in their backyards or even access to a family member’s property that’s large enough to store their motorhome or towable trailer. This is, of course, the cheapest option because the price is usually free. And who doesn’t love free?
But free may not be the best option if it means parking your rig in an area with a lot of wildlife that might try to live in your RV rent-free while you’re not using it. Heavily wooded areas or areas near swamplands aren’t ideal for motorhome storage.
Also, if this space is an outdoor space without overhead coverage, you’ll either need to invest in a high-quality cover (to protect it from direct sunlight) or consider an alternative.
If any of these situations sound like the predicament you’re in (or you just don’t have enough space on your own property), get comfortable with the idea of paying for RV storage. Next, it’s time to decide between peer-to-peer and traditional RV storage.
Pros and Cons of Peer-to-Peer RV Storage
Don’t have space on your property to store a large RV? Look for peer-to-peer storage through marketplaces like Neighbor can be up to 30% cheaper and up to 14x safer than traditional options.
Here you can compare listings from your neighbors who have an extra parking space to rent. Rent a neighbor’s driveway, RV pad, or home garage (if your RV is small enough to fit in a standard-sized garage).
Pros and Cons of Traditional Facility
Traditional storage facilities are more likely to offer indoor RV storage and climate-controlled storage options (in addition to the different types of storage that we already went over). But they’re more expensive and located in remote areas–which means longer commutes and higher crime risks.
Tip #3: Prep Your RV’s Exterior Before Long-Term Storage
Prepare your RV’s exterior for long-term storage by giving it a thorough wash and wax, which will act as a barrier against the elements. (Also, don’t forget to seal your RV’s roof, too). A waterproof, breathable cover that provides adequate airflow can shield your RV from UV rays while in storage. But be aware that parking your RV under a roof is still the most effective method of protecting it from the elements (i.e., direct UV exposure and heat exposure).
UV exposure can fade paint, deteriorate plastic components, and dry out rubber seals. Extreme weather can also cause significant damage, making protective measures essential. With these risks in mind, you won’t want to leave your RV bare and unprotected during the winter months.
Tip #4: Prep Your RV’s Interior Too
Preparing the interior of your entire RV is just as important as preparing the exterior. Regularly inspecting the RV for any signs of pests helps you address issues early and prevent extensive damage.
Follow these three key phases to keep your RV’s interior in top condition:
Phase 1: Remove Perishables
Before storing your RV, remove all food items from the fridge and cabinets. Removing perishables prevents spoilage and reduces the risk of attracting pests. Defrosting the freezer ensures it’s completely empty and prevents any potential damage.
This includes packaged foods that don’t spoil, like dried beans or oats. You may think they’ll be safe, but they attract mice and rodents who chew through plastic to get the food.
Want more information on what you can and cannot leave in your RV over the winter? Check out this article.
Phase 2: Covering Furniture and Opening Cabinets
Covering your furniture helps keep dust off and preserves the appearance of upholstery. It also protects the furniture from potential damage if unwanted animals do manage to break in.
Leaving cabinet and fridge doors ajar promotes ventilation which reduces the likelihood of moisture building up. This enhanced air circulation can also prevent mold growth.
Phase 3: Securing Vents and Openings
Securing vents and openings is crucial to keep unwanted pests from entering your RV during storage. Sealing vents and closing all openings also helps prevent rodents from getting inside.
Mice can enter through very small gaps, so identifying and sealing potential entry points is essential for keeping your RV pest-free. One place that RV owners often overlook in inspections is the undercarriage. Make sure you crawl under it to check for damage that could allow a small rodent to enter.
Tip #5: Adhere to Best Practices When It Comes to Battery and Fuel System Maintenance
Proper maintenance of the battery and fuel system should be a top priority–if you want your RV to operate smoothly when it’s time to hit the road again.
Disconnect the battery to prevent drainage and store it in a cool, dry place. (That’s another plus for climate-controlled solutions.) Even with disconnecting it, you’ll likely need to recharge it when it’s time to go again.
Add a fuel stabilizer to the fuel tank before storage to prevent fuel degradation and engine issues after long periods. Or drain the fuel entirely by siphoning out the remaining fuel.
Tip #6: Invest in an RV Security System
Finding a safe place to store your RV is key, but there’s only so much you can do. Installing a security system protects your investment and gives police evidence to follow in case of a break-in. Your RV security plan may also involve motion-sensing lights or even motion detectors that alert you of any unauthorized visitors.
If you’re looking for the most comprehensive RV security system, the Canary also has an HD camera with night vision, two-way communication, and motion alerts sent right to your phone.
Summary
RV storage doesn’t have to be complicated, just like it doesn’t have to be expensive.
With Neighbor, a peer-to-peer RV storage marketplace, you’ll find RV storage options up to 50% cheaper than traditional storage options. There are RV storage options in all 50 states. And you can even find storage spaces in your very own neighborhood. Find listings (from pre-screened hosts) nearest you!
Frequently Asked Questions
What Steps Should I Take to Winterize My RV?
To winterize your RV, drain all water from the pipes and holding tanks, bypass the water heater, and add non-toxic RV antifreeze to the plumbing systems. This will help protect your RV from temperature and moisture-related damage.
Want a full guide on RV winterization? Check this out. If you’re looking to store your RV outside during winter, then take a look at this.
What Are Some Effective Methods for Rodent Prevention in RV Storage?
To effectively prevent rodents in RV storage, consider using traps, dryer sheets, and natural repellents like peppermint, lavender, or tea tree oil. Do note that the natural route doesn’t always work if the rodents have already made themselves at home. These home remedies are mostly for prevention purposes.
