These days, 11.2 million households own RVs. Many people enjoy time out on their RVs from time to time, but there comes a time when a trip comes to an end.
Since there are likely many months of the year when your recreational vehicle isn’t in use, you must store it right. Storing an RV properly will help extend its lifespan and ensure that it keeps serving you and your family well for years.
In this guide, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about RV storage options.
Home Storage vs. RV Storage: Understand the Differences
The first thing you should consider when planning RV storage is whether you want to store your RV at home or an RV storage facility.
Both options have advantages and disadvantages, so you’ll want to consider them carefully before you decide.
The main advantage of storing your RV in your backyard, driveway, or an oversized home garage is that you won’t have to pay for RV storage. It will also be very convenient to get access to your RV and use it when needed.
The disadvantage of storing your RV at home is that it may not offer the same level of security as a dedicated RV storage facility. It can also take up a lot of space in your driveway, which you may need for other things.
Unless you have a garage to park in, your RV will also be affected by the weather and could be damaged by the sun or adverse weather conditions. However, this can be remedied with the help of a metal structure. You can find more information here about storing an RV with metal structures.
Also, HOA restrictions could prevent you from keeping your RV at home. In these cases, an RV storage facility will be necessary.
Compared to storing an RV at home, storage facilities offer many advantages. They allow you to access your RV when needed while keeping it safe and protected when not in use.
While it will cost more, paid RV storage can be a great option.
How to Prepare Your RV for Long-Term Storage
If you need to store your RV when not in use, there are some steps that you should follow to do it right. These include everything from getting the size of the storage spot right to checking in on your RV occasionally to ensure it’s still in good condition.
Know the Size in Advance
Whether purchasing a covering for your home or choosing an RV storage facility, think carefully about your options. Be sure to select a unit or covering that is the right size for the type of RV you have.
Class A RVs will require 40 ft or more space, while Class B RVs will need 25 ft or less. A Class C RV will require an amount of storage space between these two extremes. You’ll also need to ensure that the height of the covering or storage space is adequate.
When choosing an RV storage facility, also consider the climate in your area. Consider the weather conditions to ensure you’ll choose a unit that’s right for your needs.
Gather the Necessary Documents
To store an RV at an RV storage facility, you’ll need to prove that you’re the rightful owner of the vehicle. This means you’ll need to bring several documents when renting out storage space.
Ensure you have the title, registration, proof of insurance, and photo ID when getting storage space for your RV. You should also have the VIN number and the plate number for the RV as well.
Prepare Your RV for Storage
There are many things that you should do to ensure that your RV is prepared for long-term storage. You’ll need to go through many of the same processes when winterizing your RV.
Be sure that your RV’s interior and exterior are cleaned thoroughly and that you have decluttered as much as possible. You should also spend time removing perishable items or foods you have in the RV.
Before storage, you’ll also want to do other maintenance tasks, such as inflating the tires and checking the pressure, changing the oil, and draining water tanks.
The better shape you can leave your vehicle in before storing it, the better off it will be.
Check Up On Your RV Occasionally
Even after storing your RV, you’ll still want to check up on it from time to time.
Be sure that you check your RV every couple of months to make sure that it’s still in excellent condition and that there are no signs of theft or vandalism. You’ll also want to run your RV and let it idle for a couple of hours. You should also turn the power on in your RV and ensure the generator is in great shape.
Checking up on your RV from time to time will help ensure that the vehicle stays in excellent condition and that it’s fully ready for your next trip once you decide to use it again.
Deciding on an RV Storage Plan That’s Right for You
If you’re considering your RV storage options, be sure that you understand the advantages and disadvantages of storing it at home vs. a dedicated storage facility.
Also, be sure that you prepare your vehicle adequately before taking it to storage. This will help ensure that your RV has a long life and is fully ready when you need to use it again.
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