RV’s are a significant investment and like most major purchases, they should be taken care of well.
Most RV owners make these same mistakes when storing their recreational vehicle which can cost them thousands of dollars in damage due to mold and pest problems.
The only way to prevent this?
It is to know what the mistakes are beforehand.
Check out what I’ll be going over in this article!
You’ll learn:
- Why Proper RV Storage Matters (Way More Than You Think)
- The Biggest Storage Mistakes RV Owners Make
- The Storage Mistakes That Cause The Most Money Damage
- Choosing The Best Type Of Storage Solution
- Steps For Proper Maintenance Before Storage
- The Right Way To Protect Your RV Long Term
Why Proper RV Storage Matters (Way More Than You Think)
Here’s a little secret most RV owners don’t realize…
The storage method for RVs has a major impact on their overall lifespan. With the average recreational vehicle being used for 20 years and prices ranging from $35,000 to $300,000+ depending on the type, proper storage is important to protect this investment.
That’s right, throwing it in some back lot and forgetting about it will lead to all kinds of damage down the road.
UV rays fade the exterior and moisture causes mold. Pests can ruin the interior if left unchecked. Professional camper storage solutions offer protection against these issues while keeping RVs accessible and road-ready. Choosing the right type of storage facility means finding one with the proper security, weather protection, and maintenance access.
In fact, the RV storage market is booming for a reason and reached $2.59 billion in 2024 with a projected worth of $5.95 billion by 2032. The reason? Owners are finally waking up and realizing that proper storage matters.
The Biggest Storage Mistakes RV Owners Make
One of the first things I learned as an RV dealer was that most RV damage that occurs during storage is 100% preventable.
I understand, you’ve bought an RV because you want to enjoy it on vacation. Storage is not a fun thing to think about but trust me it’s not the hassle either.
The reason why I’m here is to highlight the mistakes that we see in RVs after storage and make you aware before the same thing happens to you.
Skipping The Deep Clean
This is probably the #1 mistake.
Leftover dirt, road salt and food from the fridge or cabinets may not seem like much but over time salt corrodes the exterior, food attracts pests and moisture in dirt causes mold.
Before storage, wash and wax the exterior completely. Deep clean the interior as well — empty the fridge, vacuum the carpets and wipe down surfaces.
Forgetting About The Battery
Dead batteries is one of the most common issues after storage.
The battery slowly drains when left connected all winter. By the time spring comes around it’s completely dead. Some batteries even die permanently if left sitting drained for a long period of time.
The simple fix? Disconnect the battery or use a trickle charger to maintain a charge. If completely removing it from the RV, store it in a cool, dry place.
Ignoring Tire Care
Flat spots occur on RV tires when they sit in the same position for months…
The weight of the vehicle presses down on one area and can leave a permanent flat spot. UV rays from the sun also damage tires, causing cracks and deterioration.
To prevent this, inflate all tires to the correct pressure before storage. Use leveling blocks to take the weight off the tires. Cover them to protect against sun damage.
Using The Wrong Cover
Don’t be cheap and save money on the wrong type of cover.
All it does is trap moisture underneath and cause mold, mildew and rust. A “protective” cover that causes this kind of damage is no help at all.
Invest in a high-quality RV cover specifically made for protecting these types of vehicles. Choose one that allows airflow to prevent moisture buildup underneath.
Not Winterizing Properly
If the RV will be stored where temperatures drop below freezing, winterization is a must.
Frozen water in empty tanks can still cause pipes to burst and lead to expensive repairs. All water lines need to be completely drained for winter storage. Antifreeze is added to any remaining water in the system to prevent freezing.
Not winterizing is asking for trouble.
Leaving Food And Personal Items Inside
It only takes a tiny opening for pests to get in…
Rodents and insects love RVs and any food or crumbs inside makes them feel right at home. Once inside, they can cause thousands of dollars in damage to wiring, insulation and upholstery.
Remove all food and seal any openings with mesh covers. Use rodent and pest deterrents. Check the RV monthly for early signs of an infestation.
Choosing The Best Type Of Storage Solution
RVs are expensive purchases that require proper care and protection.
Not all storage solutions provide the same level of protection. Here are the most important things to look for in a storage facility.
Security Features
Look for facilities with fenced perimeters, security cameras and controlled access points. Good lighting deters thieves as well. 24/7 security monitoring is ideal.
These features greatly reduce the risk of theft and vandalism.
Weather Protection
Covered or indoor storage units protect against sun, rain and snow.
UV rays from the sun fade paint and damage seals. Moisture from rain and snow causes rust and mold. Wind can tear cheap covers and damage awnings.
Climate controlled storage units offer the best protection from the elements, especially in areas with extreme weather.
Accessibility
Being able to access the RV at any time is important…
Regular maintenance and inspections during storage help catch small issues before they become big problems. Choose a storage facility with convenient hours and easy access.
Wide driveways and available power hookups make maintenance visits easier.
Location & Convenience
The best storage facility is one that’s actually used properly…
If it’s too far away or a hassle to get to, owners skip regular maintenance visits. Choose a storage location that makes monthly checkups easy and convenient.
Steps For Proper Maintenance Before Storage
Don’t just park an RV and forget about it.
Regular maintenance is required even during storage to keep it in good condition. Be sure to visit at least once a month to:
- Check for any leaks or water damage
- Inspect tire pressure and condition
- Ensure the cover is intact and secure
- Monitor battery charge levels
- Look for signs of pest activity
These short monthly visits are well worth the effort. Catching issues early means fixing them before they become expensive repairs.
Keep Ventilation In Mind
Airflow inside the RV prevents moisture buildup…
This leads to mold and mildew. Crack windows slightly or use vent covers to allow some airflow. This also keeps the interior from getting musty odors.
Moisture absorbers placed inside the RV also help control humidity levels.
Protecting Long Term Value
Smart storage isn’t just about preventing damage, it’s about preserving value over time.
RVs that are well taken care of have much better resale value and provide years of reliable service. The money spent on proper storage solutions is money well spent in the long run.
Think of storage costs as insurance against future repair bills. A quality storage facility with good security and weather protection prevents damage that’s much more expensive to fix later.
Wrapping Things Up
Properly storing an RV protects the investment and ensures it’s ready for the next trip. The biggest mistakes that RV owners make are all 100% preventable.
Avoid throwing it into some back lot and forgetting about it. The worst damage comes from not taking care of your RV, that includes while it’s in storage.
Choosing the right storage facility with good security and weather protection is important. Checking in regularly catches small issues early before they become big problems.
With the proper storage strategy, an RV can be in excellent condition for decades. Don’t let these common mistakes cost you thousands in repairs.
