An RV isn’t just a vehicle it’s an investment in adventure, freedom, and comfort. But when the travel season winds down or you’re taking a break from the road, how you store your RV matters just as much as how you use it. I’ve learned from experience that neglecting proper storage can lead to costly damage, unnecessary wear, and a rough start to the next trip.
Whether you’re storing your rig for the winter, between trips, or for an extended break, having a reliable system makes all the difference. In this guide, I’ll walk through how to store your RV properly when not in use, step by step, covering everything from cleaning and prep to moisture control and battery care.
Picking the Right Storage Location
The first step in storing your RV properly is choosing where to park it. This decision plays a big role in how well your RV holds up over time. I’ve stored my RV in everything from covered lots to gravel driveways, and each option has its pros and cons.
- Home storage: If you’ve got space at home, it’s convenient and free. Just be sure to check local regulations or HOA rules.
- Outdoor storage facilities: More affordable than covered or indoor storage, but your RV will be exposed to the elements.
- Covered storage: Offers roof protection from sun, rain, and snow especially valuable in harsh climates.
- Indoor storage: Best protection overall, though it’s the most expensive. Ideal for high-end rigs or long-term storage.
Whatever location you choose, make sure it’s secure, accessible, and relatively level. I also consider whether the area has rodent activity or standing water, both of which can lead to problems if not addressed.
Cleaning the Exterior
Before storing my RV, I always give the exterior a good wash. Dirt, sap, bird droppings, and road grime can cause staining or corrosion if left untreated. I use an RV-safe soap, a long-handled brush, and plenty of water.
Don’t forget the roof. It’s easy to overlook, but it takes the brunt of the sun and rain. I inspect for any cracks or tears in the sealant and patch them up before parking it for a long rest.
Once everything is clean and dry, I apply a UV-protectant wax or coating. This helps protect the paint and decals from fading and cracking during storage, especially under the sun.
Emptying and Flushing the Tanks
This is one of the most critical parts of how to store your RV properly when not in use. Leaving waste in the tanks can create odors, clogs, and even damage if temperatures drop below freezing.
Here’s the process I follow:
- Dump the black tank, followed by the gray tank to help rinse the hose.
- Flush both tanks thoroughly, either with a built-in flush system or a tank wand.
- Add RV-specific antifreeze to the black and gray tanks if storing in freezing temps.
- Drain the fresh water tank and water heater as well.
I also open the low-point drains and run the water pump briefly to clear remaining water from the lines. If I’m winterizing, I follow up with non-toxic RV antifreeze throughout the plumbing system.
Interior Cleaning and Prep
A spotless interior isn’t just about aesthetics it also keeps pests and mold at bay. I remove all food, wipe down counters and cabinets, vacuum floors, and check for signs of moisture.
I make sure the refrigerator is emptied, cleaned, and left slightly open with a baking soda box inside to absorb odors. Leaving the fridge sealed during storage is a surefire way to create an awful smell and mildew problem.
To prevent pests, I seal food containers, place dryer sheets in cabinets, and use moisture absorbers to combat dampness. I’ve also had luck with RV-safe rodent repellents in the underbelly and storage bays.
Battery Maintenance
Batteries can lose charge quickly if not stored properly. When learning how to store your RV properly when not in use, one of the most important things I picked up is how to protect your RV’s batteries from draining or freezing.
For short-term storage, I’ll disconnect the batteries entirely. For long-term or winter storage, I take the batteries out completely and store them in a dry, cool location like a garage. I make sure to:
- Fully charge the batteries before storing them.
- Check water levels in lead-acid batteries.
- Use a trickle charger or maintainer if leaving them in place.
I check on stored batteries monthly and recharge if needed. A dead battery come spring is one of the most common headaches and one of the easiest to prevent.
Tire Protection
Tires are expensive and vulnerable to dry rot, flat spots, and cracking during long storage periods. I always clean them thoroughly, inflate them to the recommended PSI, and protect them from UV exposure.
If I’m storing outside, I use tire covers to shield them from the sun. For long-term storage, I place the RV on leveling blocks or jack stands to relieve the tire pressure and prevent flat spots.
I also roll the RV forward or backward a few inches every month if possible. This helps distribute pressure more evenly and keeps the sidewalls from weakening in one spot.
Sealing Gaps and Vents
Tiny openings can become big problems when rodents or insects decide to move in. I inspect every vent, opening, and gap before storage.
I install mesh screens over exterior appliance vents and double-check all seals around doors, windows, and access panels. If I notice cracks or worn seals, I reseal with RV-safe caulk or weatherstripping.
I also close roof vents and windows completely, but leave one slightly cracked if I’m using a roof vent cover to allow for airflow. Proper ventilation reduces moisture buildup and keeps the air fresher inside.
Covering Your RV
Depending on where and how long I’m storing my RV, I’ll often use a high-quality cover. This adds a layer of defense against sun, rain, snow, and dirt. I make sure the cover fits snugly but allows for ventilation.
Avoid using plastic tarps they can trap moisture, flap in the wind, and cause more harm than good. RV-specific covers are breathable, weather-resistant, and designed to stay in place without damaging your paint.
If I’m storing under a carport or roofed space, I might skip the cover. But if my RV is exposed, it’s one of the best investments I can make to preserve the rig’s exterior.
Protecting the Propane System
Before I walk away from my RV for a few weeks or months, I shut off all propane valves at the tanks. I also inspect the lines for wear or leaks and cap any disconnected appliances.
If the storage period is during extreme cold, I remove portable propane tanks and store them separately in a ventilated area. Built-in tanks can stay, but I still turn everything off to reduce the risk of leaks.
It’s also smart to check your propane detector to make sure it’s functioning. I replace batteries or test systems as part of my pre-storage checklist.
Covering or Blocking Openings
Rodents love to find cozy winter homes in the warm, insulated nooks of an RV. I use steel wool, expanding foam, and pest screens to block access points, especially around:
- Slide-out mechanisms
- Utility connections
- Underbelly gaps
- Engine compartments
This step is essential in cold climates or rural storage areas. Once mice or rats move in, the damage they cause can be both expensive and extensive.
Periodic Check-Ins
Even after I’ve followed all the steps for how to store your RV properly when not in use, I still try to visit my RV monthly. A quick check-in helps me:
- Look for signs of leaks or pests
- Ensure tires are holding pressure
- Confirm batteries are maintaining charge
- Ventilate the interior and check humidity levels
If I’m storing at a remote facility, I schedule a visit every few weeks. It only takes 15–20 minutes and gives me peace of mind knowing everything’s still in good shape.
Starting Back Up After Storage
When the time comes to take the RV out again, I reverse the process carefully. I remove covers, check all systems, and walk around the rig to inspect for any visible damage.
Here’s what I prioritize when de-winterizing or restarting:
- Recharge and reinstall batteries
- Flush antifreeze from the water system
- Reconnect propane and test appliances
- Inspect roof, tires, and brakes
- Sanitize the fresh water system
- Restock supplies and inspect safety equipment
Starting the season with a clean, safe, and prepped RV makes travel easier and more enjoyable.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to store your RV properly when not in use isn’t complicated, but it does require attention to detail. Every step you take now prevents headaches later from moldy interiors and flat batteries to chewed wiring and frozen pipes.
Whether you’re tucking it away for a few weeks or several months, treating your RV with care during downtime ensures it’ll be ready and waiting for your next big trip. I treat the end of each journey as preparation for the next one and that mindset makes all the difference.
Let me know if you’d like a printable RV storage checklist or a visual guide to seasonal prep I’d be happy to create one for your readers.