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Unless you’re on the road full time, you’ll need to find a place to store your RV in between trips or at the end of your seasonal adventures. Not only do you need to find a spot to park it, but you’ll need to prepare it for long-term storage and, depending on your climate, winterize it, too.

We’ve compiled some options for different ways to store your RV, as well as some things to take into consideration as you prepare to store your rig before your next RV road trip. 

Storing Your RV at Home

Check Out Residential Rules

If you own your own home in a rural area with plenty of level ground and no homeowners association (HOA) rules, consider yourself lucky! You may just be able to prep (see below) and park your RV on your property -- perhaps with a waterproof cover or in a carport -- and call it a day.

If you do live in a city or suburban neighborhood, you might be able to park it in your driveway or in a communal apartment parking lot, but you’re going to have to check with your landlord or HOA.

Some municipal laws may prevent you from parking your RV on your own or rented property. Be sure to check the rules and regulations in your area. 

Consider These Parking Tips

Parking off street -- in a driveway or on open rural land -- is ideal, as it’ll be safe from other drivers. But if that’s not an option, you might need to park it on a local street. 

If you need to park your RV on a public street, answer these questions to determine if your rig will be secure:

• What’s the speed limit on the street?
• How busy is the street?
• Do other large vehicles like garbage trucks and street sweepers make their way down the street?

Keep Your RV Protected at Home With a Carport or RV Cover

Ideally, you’ll be able to protect your RV from the elements, whether that’s rain, snow, or constant sun. If you don’t have a large garage to store your RV in, consider a carport to protect your RV. 

An alternative is a waterproof and protective cover that can encase your entire rig. A flexible cover won’t protect from damaging debris like a tree limb that might fall in a violent storm, but it will ensure that your paint isn’t damaged from the sun, snow isn’t piling up directly on the roof, and birds aren’t nesting where you can’t see them.

Protective covers come in all different sizes to fit different types of RVs, from truck campers to fifth wheels to Class A motorhomes. They typically have zippered panels for easy access and built-in air vents to help prevent condensation. Integrated straps and buckles help keep the cover secure, even in inclement weather.

Storing Your RV at a Facility

Photo by Steve Johnson on Unsplash

A commercial storage facility is a great way to store an RV when it’s not in use. Generally speaking, these storage spaces are safe and secure, ranging from fenced-in (or otherwise security patrolled) parking spaces to temperature-controlled garages. Storage facilities might also include battery charging or snow removal services -- of course, those will also cost you the most. 

Depending on your budget and the options available in your area, you might be able to choose from the following: 

Parking Space

Commercial parking spots aren’t necessarily recommended if you live somewhere with potentially damaging weather such as hurricanes, tornadoes, or hail storms. However, these can be affordable choices for short-term storage, especially when paired with a high-quality cover. 

Carport

Carports provide a roof for your RV, but they are open on the sides. They can mostly help protect your RV from hail, water, snow, or sun damage, but they don’t do much in terms of protection from heavier storms. 

Covered Garage

A garage is the best option for long-term RV storage -- but this type of quality protection also costs the most. The most upscale garages for RVs have a large access door, they’re enclosed on all sides, and each RV in the facility has its own access. There are upgraded temperature-controlled garages that can help keep all parts of your RV in tip-top shape. While these aren’t necessary, they will keep your RV newer for longer.

How to Shop Around for an RV Storage Facility 

Below are a few questions to ask when making a decision on a storage facility for your RV:

How many RVs are stored at the facility?

If your RV will be the only one stored there it could become a magnet for theft or vandalism. You may want to choose a reputable RV storage facility or even one that specializes in RV storage. 

How secure is the facility?

Be sure that the facility, at minimum, has working security cameras, a gate around the property, as well as proper lighting. Extra security measures can include computer-controlled gates where you need to enter a security code to gain access to the property. Some RV storage facilities don’t allow customers in at all and instead have a valet service. 

Does the facility offer pest control? 

It’s tough to keep away rodents and bugs if your vehicle is parked outside. But if you’re considering a garage, you can ask if they make regular efforts to keep pests from taking up residence in your RV. 

How is the facility’s customer service?

Chances are high that you’re paying a pretty penny to store your RV. The facility should offer great customer service for whatever you may need. For instance, if your RV is stored outside, you might want someone to check on your rig after a storm. An RV storage facility with high-quality customer service should have no problem assisting you with this request.

How often are employees on site? 

Having staff on the premises, even occasionally, is a must. There should be someone generally monitoring security and checking on the RVs regularly. 

How to Prep Your RV for Long-Term Storage

Photo by Célio Pires on Unsplash

There are a few things you’ll want to do to your rig before you park it somewhere safely for the longer term. Here’s a list to keep in mind: 

Clean the Exterior of Your Rig

You’ll want to give your RV a good washing before it goes into storage. It’s easier to remove those bugs on the windshield sooner than later, and better to get rid of any collected dirt and dust to help keep your rig’s paint job in good shape.

Make Sure Your Tires Are Properly Inflated

Every rig, depending on type and model, has a recommended pressure for its tires. Ensure your RV’s tires are properly inflated to keep them in good working condition. 

Empty All the Tanks

Make sure your water tanks, as well as your black and grey tank, are empty before storing your rig. 

Turn Off the Appliances

All of the following should be turned off before storage: water heater, air conditioner, heater, and refrigerator. Unplug any smaller appliances, like your coffee maker and toaster, that you typically leave on counters.

Turn Off the Propane

If your RV has an onboard propane tank, be sure that the tank is turned off before storage. If your RV has small propane tanks, it’s best to turn them off and remove them before you store your rig.

Disconnect the Batteries

Fully disconnect your RV batteries if your rig will be stored longer than 3 weeks or so. This will help prevent your batteries from dying. That said, even disconnected batteries will lose their charge after about 6 months. It’s recommended to charge your disconnected batteries about every 3 months to help maintain their charge. Check to see if your storage facility will do this for you, and if you’re storing your RV at home, mark your calendar to remember to take care of this. 

Disconnect Electrical Devices

Again, if you’re storing your RV for more than a few weeks, you’ll want to disconnect or remove the batteries out of electrical devices such as smoke detectors. Acid can begin to leak out of batteries that are stored too long. 

Add Fuel Stabilizer

Adding fuel stabilizer to your gas taking is helpful if you plan to store your RV for more than a few months. Stabilizer can help protect your fuel system as the gasoline naturally evaporates over time. 

Winterize Your RV

If your RV will be stored below 32°F (0°C) at any point, you’ll absolutely need to winterize your RV. This process can be daunting, but it’s worth the time and effort to protect your RV and keep it running in tip-top shape. 

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There are over four million miles of road in the U.S. and no better way to explore them than in an RV. There are amazing locations to visit, national parks to explore and time to be spend with family. But that time will be less enjoyable in a dirty RV with engine problems. So, before you hit the road, it’s a good idea to give your RV a thorough cleaning and servicing. At the start of the season, you should give your RV a thorough maintenance check. This should include both the vehicular and recreational aspects of your RV. Not sure where to start, we’ve outlined 30 RV maintenance tips to use today.

• ENGINE MAINTENANCE
• WHEELS, AND STRUCTURAL MAINTENANCE
• POWER AND ELECTRICAL MAINTENANCE
• HOT WATER AND PLUMBING MAINTENANCE
• HEAT AND COOKING ELEMENT MAINTENANCE
• OFF-SEASON MAINTENANCE

ENGINE MAINTENANCE

Oil Change

Change the oil every season and spend a little more for a high-grade synthetic oil. It will last than conventional oils and provide better lubrication on long trips. In fact, some synthetics last 30,000 miles without needing to be changed.

Filters

Changing your air filter will keep dust out of your engine and improve the air quality in your RV, especially when running the A/C on hot days. Don’t forget about your fuel filters, they’re inexpensive, easy to change and will keep your fuel fresh in any condition.

Belts and Hoses

Many critical parts of your engine are made using rubber, plastics and other materials that can break down over time, especially when exposed to stress and heat.

Check your fan belt to ensure that it’s tightly in place and free of cracks and excessive wear. Remember, the top of your fan belt gets the least wear and tear, so look at the part that interacts with the pulleys. If there are cracks or pits, don’t wait. Change your fan belt. The same approach applies to heater and radiation hoses, check for cracks and leaks both on the hose and around the seals. Any leaking or cracked hose should be changed immediately.

Water Pump

Is your water pump working? There may be leaks that don’t become apparent when your vehicle isn’t running. Check by placing some paper beneath the pump, turning it on and letting the engine heat to temperature. If the paper gets wet, the water pump is bad and needs to be changed.

Fluid Levels

Finally, check all your fluid levels and top them off as needed. You never know when you might run low, so it never hurts to keep an extra bottle of critical fluids on-board.

WHEELS, AND STRUCTURAL MAINTENANCE

Once your engine is running smoothly it’s time to check the rest of your RV.

Tires

Check for wear and make sure they are inflated to the proper pressure. If you need to rotate or replaces your tires get it done before you hit the road. It never hurts to check your spare and make sure it’s in good condition.

Brakes

Any RV will take more time to slow down than a smaller vehicle. Before you hit the road, take your RV out for a ride and check the brakes for stopping power. If they feel sluggish or if you hear squeaks and grinding don’t wait. Get them checked and replace pads or rotors as needed.

Wipers

Another simple check is to make sure your windshield wipers are working. Worried about bad weather? Buy an extra set and bring them with you.

Air Conditioner

Nothing is worse that a hot RV. Check your engine mounted or roof mounted RV and make sure that the air is blowing new, clean and cold air. If not, check your filters and hoses and if necessary, get it recharged.

Roof, Door and Window Seals

Are your roof seals, windows and doors water-tight and air tight? Check for leaks or loose seals. Fixing these seals can keep the inside of your RV warm and dry and reduce wear and tear on your A/C or heating system.

Awnings and Entry Steps

It’s a small thing, but if you have awnings or retractable entry steps, check to make sure they are in good repair, are well lubed and extend fully and easily.

POWER AND ELECTRICAL

One of the best things about travelling in an RV is the ability to bring all the comforts of home with you on the road. However, those comforts aren’t much help if you don’t have working electrical power in your RV. Check the following to avoid dark nights on the road.

Vehicle Lights

Check and replace headlights, brake and tail lights, license plate lights, turn signals and running lights. Don’t forget to keep them clean.

Battery and Alternator Check

If the battery is 5 years or older, it needs to be replaced. If your battery is newer, run a simple alternator test to make sure the alternator is working properly. To check, simply insert an on-off switch into the positive cable line. Turn the switch off when the vehicle is running, and if it stops, the alternator is bad.

Generator

If you have a gas-powered generator, remember to refuel and change the oil and fuel filters.

Converter Charging System

Check to make sure it’s working properly. If not, get it serviced.

Satellite/Antenna

Have a satellite or antenna to pick up TV signals? Don’t wait until the big game or season finale airs to make sure they’re working. Dust them off, make sure they can be deployed, that they are connected properly and can receive a signal.

HOT WATER AND PLUMBING MAINTENANCE

Another great benefit of RV travel is the convenience of having hot and cold water available, and of course access to a bathroom without having to stop. To ensure that you can enjoy these comforts, check the following:

Dump Valve

This must work flawlessly every time. If your valve isn’t opening and closing easily, or if there are leaks around the valve, get it replaced.

Black and Grey Water Tanks

Nobody wants to keep their excess waste water around, especially when it can affect the plumbing on your RV. Make sure to clean and sanitize your tanks, so they’ll be ready for the road.

Water Heater

Test your hot water heater to ensure that water is heating properly. Check for hot water.

Fresh water

Hopefully you emptied out your tank while your RV was parked. Before you go, clean the tank thoroughly and fill it with fresh water. Check around the tank for signs of leaks or corrosion.

HEAT AND COOKING

Knowing that your heat and cooking systems are in good repair will also provide peace of mind when you’re on the road.

Propane Tanks

Check and refill your tanks every 3 – 4 months.

Water Heater

Check to ensure that your water heater is working properly and is free of leaks and corrosion.

Anode Rods

This little rod is made from zinc, aluminum or magnesium. When inserted into your water heater it slowly corrodes, “sacrificing” itself to prevent your tank from rusting. These should be replaced once a year, or when the rod has corroded 75% of the way.

Oven/Stovetop

If your RV has an oven or stove top, clean the burners and surfaces thoroughly and then test to make sure everything is working.

Fire Extinguisher

Hopefully you won’t need to use it, but always check your fire extinguisher to make sure that it’s pressurized and in good working order.

OFF-SEASON CARE

Taking care of your RV starts not at the start of the current season, but at the end of the previous season.
Before you give your RV a rest, make sure you do the following.

Clean Inside

Take the time to clean your RV thoroughly. Don’t just sweep the floors and call it done, dust the ceiling fans and vents, clean off cabinet shelving, clean the stove, clean and de-frost the refrigerator. Remember to remove any food, nothing is a bigger draw for unwanted pests than unattended leftovers.
Bring in any removable bedding, blankets, slip covers or cushions, they’ll stay cleaner and avoid dust and mold until you’re ready for next season.

Clean Outside

Give your RV a full-cleaning. This includes both the outer frame and the undercarriage. Getting rid of dust, mud and road salt will prevent corrosion and keep your RV running longer. Use the opportunity to check side and roof seals for leaks, damage or corrosion.

Empty the Tanks

Empty your water and waste tanks, clean them and allow them to dry. This prevents corrosion and potential damage from water freezing.

Put a Cover on It

Once your RV is clean and ready, put a cover on it. A quality cover can protect your RV against bad weather, leaves, pollen tree sap and other environmental pollutants that can damage your RV. It also serves as an effective deterrent against vermin and insects, if you need to get in and out of it during the year, many have built-in zippers that allow you easy access.

 

Following all these steps will leave you with a cleaner, safer RV and allow you to enjoy your time on the road and spend less time in unfamiliar repair shops.

Whether it’s a quick trip across town or a multi-week excursion across the country, when you drive an RV, the country is yours to explore. Having a great RV trip isn’t about simply picking a road and driving, it takes a little planning, both to make sure your RV is in good repair, and also selecting a trip worth taking.

Basic RV Maintenance

Before you hit the road, follow these seven tips to make sure your RV is ready to roll.

• Change Your Oil
• Check Your Generation and Batteries
• Keep It Covered
• Inspect the Seams and Seals
• Maintain Your Brakes
• Plan Ahead
• Join a Caravan

1. Change Your Oil

RVs need their oil and filters changed at regular intervals to keep your engine running properly. If left undone for too long, it could eventually cause your engine to seize costing you as much as $10,000.

Most manufacturers suggest an oil change every 3,000 to 4,500 miles, but you should check your owner’s manual for advice on your specific vehicle.

2. Check Your Generator and Batteries

One of the great things about RVing is having electricity for appliances and entertainment while you’re on the road. That’s why servicing your RV generator after a long trip and replacing your batteries every 3-5 years is important.

Remember to run your generator regularly when your RV is stored. Otherwise the build-up on the unit’s carburetor can easily cost you $400.

Also, store your battery in a warm place during the winter months. This keeps it from freezing and breaking and voiding the warranty. Otherwise, you’re on the hook for a new battery.

3. Keep It Covered

 

Properly storing your RV during the winter or off-season months is critical, especially if your RV will be stored outside. Rain, snow, wind, sun, bird droppings, dirt and other debris can be a heavy burden on your RV and a costly fix. An RV cover is the most cost-effective way to ensure that your mobile home stays in the best possible shape, so it will be ready to use the next time you want to take a road trip.

4. Inspect the Seals and Seams

Water damage can cost hundreds or thousands of dollars to repair if it’s not taken care of immediately, so inspect the roof seals and seams of your RV every six months. 

If you have a rubber roof, make sure to have the roof treated at least once per year. This prevents the sun from doing damage. You should also have a roof inspection at least twice a year.

5. Maintain Your Brakes

Brake damage could cost as much as $2,000, so keep your brakes maintained for your safety and the safety of everyone else on the road.

6. Plan Ahead

Planning a route isn’t simply about knowing your destination, it’s about being able to access the resources you and your RV need to get there.

Planning a route means knowing that you’ll be able to access RV Friendly Gas Stations and Campgrounds.

Don’t overestimate how long you can drive during a single shift behind the wheel. Food breaks, calls of nature and a desire to stop and see the sights can easily throw off your schedule.

Also, don’t forget to make reservations. Too many RV trips have ended in disappointment when a preferred campsite, concert, sporting event or attraction sells out just before you arrive.

One great way to plan your trip is to use software designed with RVing in mind. One of the most popular is RV Trip Wizard [https://www.rvtripwizard.com]. The software helps you pinpoint campsite locations, attractions, track distances and analyze the cost of your trip in advance. Best of all, there’s nothing to download, it’s web-based and easy to use.

7. Join a Caravan

 

Don’t want to RV alone? You don’t have to. Many tour companies offer the opportunity to caravan with other RVers on specialized trips. The company provides detailed itineraries, reservations at campsites, tickets to events and attractions, meals and even a travelling mechanic who can provide support in case of emergencies. All you need to do is drive, they take care of everything else. Best of all, you get to travel along with fellow RVers who can appreciate the joy of the open road.

Hit the Open Road

Now that you’re ready to go, where do you want to go? The following are 17 ideas for road trips that you can do over the course of weeks, months or days and can appeal to a wide range of interests.

Best Multi-Week RV Vacations

1. Deep South

From South Carolina to Louisiana, the American Deep South is a fascinating part of the USA, and land with its own culture and history. Friendly people, home cooking (and portion sizes!). A rich trove of American history and culture from the Civil War to the civil rights movement and gospel to gumbo make this a fascinating place to visit.

2. Gulf Coast

 

From Florida to Mississippi, the Gulf Coast is not only a beautiful spot for a beach vacation but an important ecosystem that thousands of sea turtles, birds and other wild creatures call home. The Florida panhandle has beaches welcoming visitors to appreciate the beauty of this beautiful but delicate ecosystem.

 

3. New England

Driving your RV around the six states that make up New England – Massachusetts, Connecticut, Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine and Rhode Island – can take you to some breathtaking mountain views and serene lakeside accommodations. Pack up the cooler, fold up the lawn chairs and head for the great outdoors and its many wonderful campgrounds.

4. Pacific Northwest

The Pacific Northwest has much to offer to anyone traveling by RV. Whether it’s the Sequoia Forests of San Francisco, Mt. Rainer in Seattle or Voodoo Donuts in Portland. Mountain ranges, vast pine forests, hiking camping and fishing await, along with some of America’s most vibrant cities.

5. Rocky Mountains

Play some John Denver and experience the breathtaking beauty of America’s continental divide. Cities, towns, wildlife and natural wonders await as you traverse mountains, cities, towns and Rocky Mountain, Yellowstone, and Grand Teton National Parks.

6. Route 66

One of America’s most iconic highways, the historic Route 66 was 2,451 miles long and became the most popular road for those travelling west, or simply seeking adventure. While the historic Route 66 was replaced by the interstate highway system, it’s still possible to follow its path. Starting in Chicago the route winds through Missouri, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico and Arizona coming to an end at the Santa Monica pier overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

Best Weekend RV Road Trips

If you’re looking for a quick trip that you can do in a weekend and be back at your desk on Monday, these are some great areas to explore that may be in your own backyard.

7. Florida Keys

This chain of islands are connected by US Highway 1 and extends over 100 miles from the southern tip of Florida out into the crystal blue waters of the Caribbean and average temperatures in January run between 65-75 degrees.

Visit Hemmingway’s’ house, enjoy fishing, great seafood meals, the rich island culture and of course, a big slice of key lime pie.

8. Death Valley

At 282 feet below sea level, the Death Valley desert of California is the lowest point in North America. Known for its extreme summer heat, when daytime temperatures can reach 120°F, there is much more to Death Valley National Park for those who are interested in exploring its diversity. Explore the badlands its ever-changing colors, see the snow-capped mountains, and enjoy the wildflower bloom.

Visit in the winter months for pleasant temperatures and sunny days, and when you’re done, there may still be time to visit Los Angeles or Las Vegas.

Best Festival RV Trips

The United States hosts a wide range of annual festivals, events that are perfect for a weeklong RV trip with the family.

9. Albuquerque Balloon Festival

 

For nine days in October, the Albuquerque skies are colorfully painted as more than 500 balloons lift off from Balloon Fiesta Park. The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta®, is the world’s largest balloon festival, and one of the most photographed events in the world. Fun for the whole family.1

10 . Kentucky Derby

Sip your mint julep, pin on your fascinator and giddy up for the crown jewel of horse racing’s Triple Crown. Before the horses reach the gate the two weeks preceding the Derby are filled with all of the excitement of the Kentucky Derby Festival which includes the Kentucky Oaks stakes race, and the Thunder Over Louisville fireworks display is the largest annual fireworks display in the country. Of course, all of the excitement of the celebration preceding the Derby is just a warm-up for the main event.

11. Mardi Gras

New Orleans loves to celebrate before the start of lent and Mardi Gras is the ultimate street party. The city sizzles for nine days every spring as the world converges on the Crescent City for hot jazz, fabulous food, and scandalous behavior. So roll into town and ‘Laissez les bon temps roulez!’ Need a break from the party? There are lovely old towns, stunning wilderness areas, sumptuous plantation homes, and spooky old cemeteries to visit.

12. Rose Parade/ Rose Bowl

On New Year’s Day, the country focuses its attention on Pasadena, California, for the annual Rose Bowl football game and the amazing Rose Parade. Equestrian units, marching bands and floats covered in blooming flowers make their way down Colorado Boulevard to welcome in the New Year. This is an iconic event and a great trip for the end of the winter holidays.

Best Themed RV Trip Ideas

Whether you’re a sports buff, a wine buff, a history buff, a music buff, or just looking to explore a new interest, these RV trips offer opportunities to explore the country and your passions at the same time.

13. Civil War Battlefields

 

Whether you’re a history buff or learning about The Civil War for the first time, taking an RV trip to the sites of famous and infamous battles can help bring the history home. From Fort Sumter (South Carolina), to Antietam (Maryland), to Gettysburg (Pennsylvania) to the Appomattox Courthouse (Virginia), these national historic sites are filled with displays, living history presentations and walking tours that will fascinate and educate young and old alike.

 

14. Ballpark Bonanza

Take me out to the ballgame. In an RV you can celebrate the boys of summer all across the country. Follow your hometown team, or try to check some of the great historical ballfields off your bucket list. Either way, it’s a great way to enjoy America’s pastime.

15. American Music

Whether it’s Dixieland, Country and Western, Jazz, Blues, Folk or Rock and Roll, the American South and Midwest is the cradle of popular music. RV from Nashville to Memphis to New Orleans to Detroit to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland and experience the best of American music firsthand.

16. Wine Country

While most of us think of wine country as Napa Valley, California, there are many other areas that are home to incredible wineries, restaurants and much more. Whether you visit Willamette Valley, Oregon, Walla Walla Washington, Traverse City Michigan, Long Island’s North Fork or Loudon Country Virginia, there are plenty of vintages to experience. Just remember, no drinking and driving.

17. Roadside Attractions

 

From Paul Bunyan Land to the world largest Catsup Bottle, to Cadillac Ranch or Dinosaur Park, the U.S. has its fair share of weird wonders and roadside attractions. Find your favorites and plot a course for the unexpected.

Plan Ahead and Explore with These RVing Travel Tips

When you’re ready to RV, a little preparation can mean the difference between a trip you’ll always remember, and a trip you’ll want to forget. Apply these ideas and enjoy the open road.