Organizing and Preparing your RV for Storage
If you don’t live or travel full time in your RV, there may come a time when you need to store it. To keep your motorhome, trailer or camper in good condition while it sits, you’ll need to clean it out, protect it, and find a storage spot that fits your needs. Do it right and you can hit the road quickly when the time comes. The steps below cover what to do and in what order.
Find the Right Storage Space for Your RV
If you haven’t secured a storage location yet, start there. Storing your RV on your own property is often illegal or restricted by homeowners associations, so you’ll likely need commercial storage. That’s where Lockaway Storage comes in, with secure and convenient options at locations across Texas and Colorado.
Searching for “RV storage near me” isn’t enough on its own. Decide whether you need indoor or outdoor space based on the size of your RV. Larger vehicles like Class A motorhomes and fifth wheel campers usually need outdoor storage, which can range from covered carports to uncovered parking spaces. Indoor storage gives better protection from the elements and weather events. The type of space you choose also changes how much prep you need to do, so settle it first.
Not sure which fits? Our guides on indoor vs outdoor RV storage and types of RVs and trailers you can store walk through the options, and our vehicle storage and parking page shows what each location offers.
Get Your RV Organized
Think of it like getting your home ready before a vacation. A little time up front means you won’t be digging through a stale, cluttered rig when you come back. Work through the steps below in order, since each one makes the next easier.
Check for Pests First
Begin by inspecting your RV inside and out for existing damage. The main concern is evidence of mice and other critters that may have found their way in. Yes, you read that correctly, critters.
If you find a problem, deal with it right away. Fill any gaps or openings you find on the underside of the vehicle, in crevices and in corners with expanding foam. Seal other entry points by caulking cracks in the roof, walls or other areas.
Clean It Out
After handling any pest issues, it’s time to clear out the living space. Remove all food and defrost your refrigerator and freezer, then wipe it clean and leave an open box of baking soda inside to prevent odors from lingering. Move any valuables to a safe location. Vacuum the floors and wipe down all surfaces so nothing is left to attract pests or grow mildew.
Get the Right Supplies
Before moving on, pick up what you’ll need: an RV cover, cleaning products, wheel covers, spray lubricant, RV antifreeze, fuel stabilizer and tire covers. Once you have everything, drive to your storage space and park the RV.
Winterize the Plumbing and Tanks
To prepare your systems, start by disabling any inline water filters so winterizing chemicals don’t damage them. Then empty your black and gray tanks, dispose of all wastewater, and sanitize the black tank.
When you winterize an RV, just like a home, the priority is protecting pipes and fixtures from freezing. Completely drain your plumbing lines, including the water heater. Bypass the water heater and add RV antifreeze so it runs through the entire system. Use RV specific antifreeze, since the plumbing system carries drinking water. When you’re ready to hit the road again, flush the system with cold water before normal use.
For more on cold weather prep, see our post on storing your RV during winter.
Protect the Fuel System and Battery
Add a fuel stabilizer to prevent corrosion and buildup. It also keeps any remaining fuel fresh while the RV sits. The engine battery will drain naturally over time, so extend its life by disconnecting and removing it. Store it in a secure location along with any other RV batteries.
Covers, Tires and Moisture
Most RV owners who choose outdoor storage, and many who choose indoor, use RV covers. A cover shields the vehicle from harsh conditions and helps keep pests out. Tire covers protect the tires from weather related wear, and some owners use trailer legs, wooden blocks or jack stands to prevent flat spots and take pressure off the wheels during long periods of inactivity.
If you’ll be storing in a humid climate, place a moisture absorber such as DampRid inside. If your storage location is in a dry climate, leave a bucket of water on the floor inside the RV to keep interior wood from cracking or drying out.
Storing Your RV in Texas and Colorado
Where you store changes what matters most. In Texas, sun and heat are the main threats, so covers, shade and a covered space go a long way. In Colorado, freezing temperatures and snow load make winterizing the plumbing the step you can’t skip.
Near Lake Conroe, our guide to RV storage near Lake Conroe compares enclosed, covered and outdoor spaces, and RV, boat and large drive-up storage in Conroe covers the Little Egypt Road location. Closer to San Antonio, see RV and boat storage in Schertz. In Northern Colorado, read about RV and vehicle storage near Fort Collins and boat and RV storage in Berthoud.
Ready to Store Your RV
After you complete these steps, your RV is ready to sit safely until your next trip. Call or visit Lockaway Storage when you’re ready to reserve a space.
