Adventure Paused: Best Practices for Storing Your RV When You’re Not Touring

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Learn essential tips for storing your RV to maintain its condition and ensure it’s ready for your next adventure.

Storing your RV isn’t just about finding a space to park it until your next adventure; it’s about preserving your home away from home. Proper storage ensures that your RV remains in top condition, free from the wear and tear that can occur when it’s left exposed to the elements or sitting idle. Protect it like any cherished home, ensuring every nook is cleaned, covered, and secured. Let’s dive into the best practices that can help you store your RV safely and efficiently, keeping it ready for many more journeys.

Choosing a Location

Selecting the proper storage location for your RV is crucial for accessibility and safety. The facility’s security features, proximity to your home, and available storage options, such as covered, uncovered, or climate-controlled spaces, are prime factors to consider. For RV owners in Michigan, opting for convenient vehicle storage in Taylor ensures that your vehicle is stored securely and remains easily accessible for spontaneous weekend getaways. Choosing a storage facility close to home can dramatically reduce the hassle associated with pre-trip preparations and post-trip maintenance, making it an ideal choice for frequent travelers.

Note: Taylor, Michigan, is known for its robust community of RV enthusiasts, hosting several annual gatherings and expos.

Cleaning Your RV

Before tucking your RV away for storage, a thorough cleaning is essential to prevent mold, pests, and deterioration. Here are vital steps to ensure your RV remains in pristine condition:

Wash the Exterior: remove dirt and grime to prevent rust and decay

Clean the Interior: vacuum carpets, wipe surfaces, and clean appliances

Empty and Clean Tanks: drain and sanitize water tanks to prevent bacteria growth

Clear Out Perishables: remove all food items to avoid attracting pests

Check for Leaks: ensure all seals and windows are intact to prevent water damage.

For more detailed guidance on RV maintenance, visit the Recreational Vehicle Industry Association, which offers a wealth of resources.

An expert in RV maintenance advises, “Regular cleaning before storage significantly extends the life of your RV, keeping it ready for your next adventure.”

Protecting the Exterior

Securing the exterior of your RV before storage is critical to maintaining its condition and ensuring it’s ready for the next journey. Whether you’re storing your RV indoors or outdoors, protective measures are necessary to guard against environmental damage. 

Covering your RV with a breathable, weatherproof cover is essential to shield it from rain, snow, and UV rays, which can cause fading and material degradation. Additionally, consider applying a coat of wax to provide an extra layer of protection against dirt and moisture. Tires should be protected from direct contact with the ground by using tire covers or placing them on wooden boards to prevent cracking and extend their life.

An RV maintenance specialist remarked, “A well-maintained exterior can prevent costly repairs and extend the lifespan of your RV.”

Research

Studies show that RVs covered with protective materials experience 75% less exterior degradation than uncovered ones. This significant reduction in wear and tear highlights the importance of using proper covers and protective measures during long-term storage.

Interior Maintenance

Maintaining the interior of your RV during storage is just as crucial as the exterior to ensure it remains in excellent condition for your next trip. 

Here are some essential steps to follow:

Moisture Control: use dehumidifiers or moisture absorbers to prevent mold and mildew buildup

Ventilation: slightly open air vents to promote circulation and reduce musty odors

Pest Prevention: place natural repellents like cedar blocks or lavender sachets to deter pests without using harsh chemicals

These simple but effective measures can keep the interior of your RV fresh and ready for the road. If you’re relocating and need assistance moving your RV to or from storage, you can find moving companies that specialize in handling large vehicles, ensuring your RV is moved safely and efficiently.

Mechanical Care

Proper mechanical maintenance is essential before storing your RV to ensure it remains in top condition and is ready to hit the road when you are. Begin by changing the oil and oil filter to prevent contaminants from harming the engine while it sits idle. 

Additionally, adding a fuel stabilizer to the gas tank can help prevent the fuel from deteriorating during storage, which could lead to engine problems later. Disconnecting the battery to avoid drainage and extend its life is also wise. Checking and inflating the tires to the recommended pressure will help prevent flat spots or uneven wear. Extensive resources and tips are available on maintaining the RV lifestyle for those eager to explore more about maintaining an RV for travel and leisure.

Stats:

70% of RV damage incidents occur because of inadequate pre-storage mechanical care
Regular oil changes can extend engine life by up to 50%.

Wrapping Up

As we conclude our guide on best practices for storing your RV when you’re not touring, remember that each step—from choosing the right location to performing thorough mechanical care—plays a crucial role in preserving your vehicle. Proper storage not only extends the life of your RV but also ensures that it remains ready for adventure whenever you are. Implementing these practices will help maintain your RV’s condition and ensure your travels are safe and enjoyable. So, take the time to follow these guidelines, and rest easy knowing your home on wheels is well cared for during its downtime. When you’re ready to hit the road again, we invite you to explore some of our favorite road trips you can enjoy in your RV.