Your RV is more than just a vehicle—it’s your home on wheels, your adventure buddy, and for many, a big investment. Whether you’re storing it for the off-season or taking a break from travel, preparing your RV for long-term storage is crucial. A little bit of prep now can save you a lot of money (and headaches) later.
Here’s your complete, step-by-step guide to getting your RV storage-ready—clean, protected, and ready to roll when you are.
✅ Step 1: Choose the Right Storage Option
Before we get into the how-to, let’s start with the where. The kind of storage you choose makes a big difference.
- Indoor storage protects your RV from weather, sun, and extreme temperatures.
- Covered storage offers a roof but open sides—great for shielding against sun and precipitation.
- Outdoor storage is typically the most budget-friendly, but your RV will be exposed to the elements.
Make sure the facility is secure, well-lit, and ideally offers 24/7 access and video surveillance. Bonus points if they specialize in RV storage—they’ll often have the right spacing, hookups, and knowledge to take care of your rig.
🧼 Step 2: Clean Inside and Out
A deep clean before storage does more than just keep things fresh—it helps prevent mold, pests, and stains.
Interior:
- Remove all food (yes, even sealed snacks!)
- Wipe down counters, tables, and cabinets
- Vacuum carpets and upholstery
- Clean out the refrigerator, defrost it, and leave the door ajar
- Open drawers and doors to promote airflow
- Empty trash and remove anything that might attract pests
Exterior:
- Wash the RV to remove dirt, bugs, and grime
- Wax the exterior to protect the paint
- Clean and lubricate slide-out seals
- Check and clean the awning if applicable
🔌 Step 3: Shut Down the Electrical Systems
Avoid battery drain and electrical issues by properly powering down.
- Disconnect the house batteries or use a battery disconnect switch
- Remove batteries completely if storing for several months—store them in a cool, dry place
- Shut off the main breaker
- Turn off propane tanks and cover them if possible
For added protection, consider using a trickle charger or battery maintainer to keep batteries healthy over time.
🚰 Step 4: Drain the Water Systems
Moisture is the enemy during long-term storage, and freezing water lines can lead to serious damage.
- Empty and flush the freshwater, gray, and black tanks
- Drain the hot water heater
- Add non-toxic RV antifreeze to the plumbing if temperatures will dip below freezing
- Remove water filters and store them separately
If you’re unsure about winterizing your water system, consult your RV manual or have a professional do it for you—it’s worth the peace of mind.
🛞 Step 5: Protect Your Tires
Tires can degrade and develop flat spots if left sitting in one position for too long.
- Inflate tires to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure
- Park on a level surface, preferably on tire pads or wood blocks—not bare ground
- If possible, move the RV slightly every few weeks to prevent flat spots
- Use tire covers to protect against UV damage
🐭 Step 6: Keep Pests Out
Rodents and insects love RVs—especially in the colder months.
- Seal any openings where critters could get in (vents, pipes, wiring)
- Use dryer sheets, mothballs, or natural repellents inside the RV to discourage mice
- Place traps around the outside perimeter as a backup measure
- Don’t forget to check storage bays and compartments
🌡️ Step 7: Consider Climate Factors
Depending on where you’re storing, take additional precautions for extreme temperatures.
- Use moisture absorbers or dehumidifiers to prevent mold in humid climates
- In dry areas, crack a few windows slightly (with bug screens) to improve airflow
- In cold climates, ensure full winterization to prevent pipe or tank damage
🔐 Step 8: Lock It Down and Cover Up
Once everything’s cleaned, drained, and disconnected—it’s time to secure it.
- Lock all doors, windows, and external compartments
- Use a wheel lock, hitch lock, or both for added security
- Place a high-quality, breathable RV cover over your vehicle to protect against UV, dirt, and moisture (especially for outdoor storage)
✅ Bonus Tips:
- Leave blinds or curtains partially open to reduce sun fade and deter break-ins
- Check in on your RV periodically during storage to make sure everything looks good
- Make a checklist of what you did to make restarting in the spring super easy
Final Thoughts
Prepping your RV for long-term storage doesn’t have to be overwhelming—it just takes a little planning and attention to detail. Treat your RV with care during the off-season, and it’ll be road-ready when your next adventure calls. We recommend rv storage indianapolis.
