Top RV Storage Tips and Hacks You Need to Know
RV storage tips and hacks are a great way to ensure your RV stays in premium condition throughout its lifetime. From simply cleaning out the refrigerator between trips, to investing in specialized RV covers, there are lots of different ways you can store your rental vehicle.
Regardless of your budget or the amount of time you have available, by following these simple tips, you can rest assured that your recreational vehicle will be safe and secure against the elements while resting between trips. Below are some of RVnGO‘s top choices for RV storage tips and hacks you need to know for your next trip!
Long-term RV Storage Basics
Owning a recreational vehicle (RV) comes with many advantages, and the key to enjoying your RV is proper storage. There are some easy tips and hacks you can use to ensure your RV stays secure and in top condition while it’s not being used.
Make sure you research the local laws and regulations concerning RV storage before making an investment in one, as they vary by state. Ensure your RV is properly ventilated when being stored longer than a few days, clean out any dampness that may be present if being stored for extended periods of time. Finally, practice safety measures such as using locks and storing in a safe area away from prying eyes to reassure you feel better about your RV’s security.
10 RV Storage Tips
Tips and hacks for RV storage can save you time and money. Decluttering your living space is one way to maximize available storage space. Invest in organizational tools such as wall hooks, stackable bins, and heavy-duty shelving units to make use of otherwise wasted vertical space. Utilizing the entire interior of your RV is important when trying to keep valuable items organized. Consider labels, shelf dividers and cords wrapped in Velcro cable ties to ensure easy access while avoiding the dreaded ‘cord spaghetti’. Finally, regularly cleaning out items that are no longer needed is an essential part of keeping your RV storage neat and organized.
1. Invest in a Quality RV Cover
A quality RV cover is essential for protecting your vehicle from the elements while it’s in storage. Not only will it protect against sun, rain, and snow, but it will also help keep out dust and dirt. Make sure to choose a cover that is specifically designed for your type of RV and that fits snugly around the entire vehicle.
2. Clean Out the Refrigerator
Before storing your RV, make sure to clean out the refrigerator and freezer. This will help prevent any food from spoiling while in storage and will also help keep odors at bay.
Cleaning out the refrigerator is essential to a healthy and hygienic kitchen. Doing so regularly prevents food spoilage, mold and bacteria from forming on surfaces such as shelves or containers. It also makes it easier to find items in the fridge, saving time and reducing waste. Furthermore, decluttering the fridge gives you room for new ingredients, condiments, and other products that can make meal preparation easier. Cleaning out your fridge gives you peace of mind and encourages healthier eating habits.
3. Remove Batteries
If you’re storing your RV for an extended period of time, it’s a good idea to remove the batteries from the vehicle. This will help prevent any damage from occurring due to corrosion or leakage.
Removing your RV battery for storage is an important step to ensure its longevity. The most common way to do this is by using a trickle charger, which will keep the battery at the right level of charge and prevent it from overcharging or draining too quickly.
If possible, store your battery in a cool, dry place that is protected from extreme temperatures and weather conditions. Additionally, check the fluid levels every couple of months to make sure everything is functioning properly. Properly preparing your RV battery for storage will help you get more life out of it.
4. Use a Leveling Block
If you’re storing your RV on uneven ground, it’s important to use a leveling block to ensure that the vehicle is properly supported and balanced. This will help prevent any damage from occurring while in storage.
Leveling blocks are an essential tool for any RV owner, helping to level their vehicle on uneven terrains. Because of the weight and size of recreational vehicles, most drivers rely on levelling blocks to help adjust the height of their RV or trailer.
Leveling blocks also provide stability and prevent swaying when you are parked up. Investing in a good set of leveling blocks ensures your RV or trailer is secure and well-aligned, making your trips easy and comfortable.
5. Check Tire Pressure
Before storing your RV, make sure to check the tire pressure and adjust it as necessary. This will help prevent any flat spots from occurring while in storage.
6. Use a Dehumidifier
To help keep moisture levels low inside your RV while in storage, consider investing in a dehumidifier. This will help prevent mold and mildew from forming inside the vehicle and will also help keep odors at bay.
Owning an RV dehumidifier is a great way to ensure that your RV is always stored in optimal humidity. These dehumidifiers not only keep the moisture out of the air, but they also protect your belongings from mold and mildew damage, especially if you are storing them for long periods of time.
Not only does this help keep your possessions safe and dry, but it also helps to reduce odors and mildew smells associated with dampness. With a reliable RV dehumidifier in place, you can feel confident that your recreational vehicle will always stay in top condition while under storage.
7. Use a Breathable Cover
An RV storage cover is critical for protecting the exterior of your RV from UV radiation, dirt, grime, snow and other elements that can degrade the surface. A breathable RV cover is designed to allow air exchange and moisture escape so that mildew, rot and mold don’t form on the surface. In addition to the improved airflow of a breathable fabric cover, it’s much easier to install and remove compared to parked RVs with traditional canvas covers.
This material also provides superior protection during freezing temperatures due to its resistance to water buildup. Breathable covers are particularly important if your vehicle will be stored in an outdoor location or outside a fully enclosed structure.
8. Invest in a Tire Pressure Monitoring System
To help keep an eye on your tire pressure while in storage, consider investing in a tire pressure monitoring system. This will help alert you if the pressure drops too low and will help prevent any flat spots from occurring.
9. Use a Battery Tender
To help keep your battery in good condition while in storage, consider investing in a battery tender. This will help maintain the charge of your battery and will also help prevent any damage from occurring due to corrosion or leakage.
10. Clean and Wax
Before storing your RV, make sure to give it a good cleaning and waxing. This will help protect the exterior of the vehicle from any dirt or debris that may accumulate while in storage.
By following these simple tips, you can rest assured that your recreational vehicle will be safe and secure while resting between trips. Investing in quality RV covers, cleaning out the refrigerator, removing batteries, using a leveling block, checking tire pressure, using a dehumidifier, investing in a tire pressure monitoring system, and using a battery tender are all great ways to ensure that your RV is properly stored. Additionally, make sure to give your vehicle a good cleaning and waxing before storing it away.
Plan Your Next RV Trip with Rentals from RVnGO
RVnGO provides a convenient way to plan your next RV trip. With a selection of privately owned and professionally maintained recreational vehicles available to rent, you can find the perfect size and amenities for your adventure.
Not only are our rentals affordable, but some hosts also offer service packages that may include options like on-board or other equipment. Our team is here to help you every step of the way so that you have a safe, fun, and unforgettable experience on your next RV vacation. Get started at RVnGO.com today!