RV Storage Tips

Tip #1:  Don’t just park your RV, travel trailer, boat or vehicle without checking on it from time to time.  If you plan on leaving it stored it’s important to do a quick inspection every few weeks.

Tip #2:  Anytime you take your RV, travel trailer or boat out of storage, be sure to check the tire pressure to make sure the are properly inflated.  Tires can lose pressure while sitting in storage.

Tip #3:  Make sure the power to your RV or travel trailer is turned off while being stored.  Power that is left on will drain the batteries.  

Tip #4:  Turn the refrigerator off, wipe it out and prop the door open to allow it to dry properly and to avoid any nasty smells or mold.

Tip #5:  If your RV, travel trailer, or boat is stored will be stored outside, even under a canopy, it’s wise to cover it to protect the exterior from weather and UV rays.  Make sure the cover fits snug to keep moisture, sun and wind out. 

Tip #6:  Protect the tires with well fitting tire covers.

Tip #7:  Store batteries that are exposed to weather in a cool dry place.  Batteries stored out in the weather during the winter can freeze.  Freezing has the potential to destroy a battery.

Tip #8:  Avoid rodents making their home in your RV or trailer by removing temptations.  Rodents can make a mess in a short period of time.  Be sure to remove all food from the RV.  Thoroughly clean the refrigerator, freezer, cupboards, countertops and floors.  If you eat while sitting on the furniture, make sure to vacuum any crumbs from the furniture.  Check the underside of your RV or travel trailer for any opening a rodent can get through. Seal any holes and cracks you locate.

Did you know a rodent can run up the auxiliary power cord and get in through the wall or cable hatch?  Make sure the hatch is closed tight.

Tip #9:  If you’re storing a vehicle that has gas in it, and you plan to leave it for a period of time, RoadandTrack.com recommended you use a fuel stabilizer to prevent sticky resin deposit from happening.   Be sure to use the stabilizer as directed on the package.

Tip #10:  Periodically inspect the roof, seams, windows and doors for any cracks or holes.  Seal or caulk as necessary to avoid water or wind damage.

Before Storing Your RV Through The Winter

Tip #11:  Drain the water system when storing your RV or travel trailer for extended periods of time.

Tip #12:  Before winter, when temperatures drop below freezing, make sure you remember to winterize your RV, travel trailer, boat, or vehicle to prevent any damage from frozen pipes.

Tip #13:  Repeat #8 above.

Tip #14:  Clean the exterior by washing and waxing it. Don’t forget about the top of any slide outs.

Tip #15:  Double check the seals.  Damaged seals are an invitation for water leaks.

Tip #16:  Make sure the slide outs are completely closed.