When the road trip season ends, your RV doesn’t go out of sight and out of mind—at least it shouldn’t. Whether it’s a few months of winter hibernation or just downtime between trips, how you store your RV can make a big difference in its lifespan, safety, and even your insurance situation. Storage isn’t just about parking. It’s about protecting your investment from weather, pests, theft, and mechanical issues. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what smart RV owners do before, during, and after the off-season to ensure their rig is road-ready when adventure calls again.
First things first—location matters. Where you store your RV will determine how much prep work and protection you need to do. If you’re parking it at home, make sure it’s on a level surface with good drainage and protection from trees or falling debris. Consider investing in a heavy-duty RV cover, or better yet, a carport or canopy to help shield it from the elements. If you’re using a storage facility, look into covered vs. uncovered options. Some offer indoor climate-controlled units for higher-end RVs, but even outdoor storage can be effective with the right protection. Check reviews for security features like gated access, lighting, and surveillance.
Before storage, a deep clean isn’t just for aesthetics—it helps prevent damage and pests. Wash the exterior to remove road grime, salt, bugs, and any buildup that could harm your finish. Waxing adds an extra layer of protection. Inside, clear out all food, crumbs, and perishable items. Empty the fridge and prop the door open to prevent mildew. Wipe down counters, vacuum, and take out anything that might attract rodents. Dampness can cause mold, so open cabinets, leave moisture absorbers inside, and ensure everything is dry before locking up.
If you’re storing your RV in an area where temperatures drop below freezing, winterizing your plumbing system is non-negotiable. Drain all water tanks—fresh, gray, and black. Flush out the water heater. Add RV-safe antifreeze to the pipes and run it through the system by turning on faucets and flushing the toilet. Forgetting this step could result in burst pipes, costly repairs, and a serious mess come spring.
Batteries can drain even when the RV isn’t in use, especially in cold weather. Disconnect the battery and store it in a cool, dry place. Make sure it’s fully charged first, and consider using a battery tender to maintain charge through the off-season. If you can’t remove it, check on it periodically and recharge as needed.
Mice and insects love to turn RVs into cozy winter homes. Seal off all entry points, including vents, exhaust pipes, and openings under the chassis. Use steel wool or screens for small holes. Place insect repellent or dryer sheets inside the cabinets and drawers, and use mothballs or pest-control pouches in the storage bays. Check window and door seals for cracks or wear, and reseal if needed to prevent drafts and water intrusion.
Your tires are supporting thousands of pounds of weight for months—don’t ignore them. Inflate them to the recommended pressure, even if you’re not driving. Consider using tire covers to protect them from UV damage. If you’re storing your RV long-term, you can reduce wear by slightly jacking it up or placing it on tire blocks to prevent flat-spotting.
If your RV has a gasoline engine, top off the tank and add a fuel stabilizer. This prevents moisture buildup and keeps fuel from breaking down while in storage. Run the engine briefly after adding stabilizer to circulate it through the system. Change the oil and coolant if it’s due. Old fluids can corrode or damage your engine if left sitting too long. Don’t forget to also check generator fuel and run it with a load briefly before storage.
Make sure all breakers, appliances, lights, and systems are off. Unplug from shore power. This avoids phantom drains (small, continuous amounts of power that certain electronics or systems pull from your RV battery—even when the RV seems like it’s turned off) and protects your systems from possible power surges or battery depletion. If your RV has solar panels, check whether they’re connected to a charge controller and if they’ll continue maintaining your batteries safely.
Close and lock all windows, doors, storage bays, and hatches. Use wheel locks or a hitch lock if parked in an open area. Not only does this deter theft, but it may also be required by your insurance provider in case of a claim. Keep a detailed list or photos of valuables you leave in the RV in case you need to report loss or damage.
If your RV is parked nearby, check on it every few weeks. Walk around to look for signs of leaks, pest activity, low tire pressure, or weather-related wear. If it’s in a facility, ask if they do visual inspections or allow mid-season check-ins. A 10-minute checkup now can save you hundreds in surprise repairs later.
Before you shut everything down for the season, take a few minutes to review your insurance policy. Some people reduce coverage or remove liability when storing their RV—but it’s important to understand what risks still exist. Theft, fire, storm damage, and vandalism can all happen while your RV is parked. Some providers offer specialized storage options that may reduce your premium while keeping key protections in place. Just be sure to understand what’s excluded if you make changes. If you’re unsure, talk with an agent who understands how RV usage and insurance interact. They can help you make adjustments that fit both your storage plans and your comfort level with risk.
Protecting your RV during storage season isn’t complicated—but it does require intention. A few hours of prep today can save you thousands in repairs, stress, and surprise expenses later. Your RV isn’t just a vehicle—it’s your second home, your adventure base, and your weekend escape. Give it the care it deserves, even when it’s not on the road. Because when spring rolls around and it’s time to hit the road again, the last thing you want to deal with is mold, mice, or mechanical problems. A clean, safe, and ready-to-roll RV starts with smart storage now.
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