End of the Road: Prep Your RV for Autumn and Winter Storage
Countryside Self Storage
Sure, some RV resorts stay open during the autumn and winter months, but for many of us, RV travel is purely a summertime activity. As summer comes to a close, most RV owners are getting ready for the end of the road and preparing their recreational vehicles for winter storage. Not all storage for RVs and vehicles in Missouri or Kansas is created equal, however. To that end, we’ve gathered together a few tips to help you get your RV ready for the winter months, so it’ll be ready to go when summer rolls back around!
Pick Your Spot. If you’re searching for “vehicle storage units near me,” you’ll want to be sure that you choose a reputable self storage lot that offers more than just a space to park your RV, trailer or boat. You’ll want someplace that invests in onsite management, security fencing, video surveillance, alarm systems, security lighting, and routine security checks while offering amenities such as access to electricity or protection from the elements. Ultimately, an RV, motorhome, camper, or travel trailer is a big investment, and you’ll want to store it someplace that will take care of it as well as you would.
Consult Your RV Owner’s Manual. Your owner’s manual is your best source for specifics on how to prepare your particular model of RV for long-term storage. While almost all RVs require that you perform certain basics, such as emptying fresh water and wastewater tanks, removing propane tanks, draining battery fluid, and so on, each individual RV requires unique methods and best practices for performing even these routine maintenance tasks correctly. That’s why your owner’s manual should be your first stop whenever you’re preparing your RV for storage.
Clean it Out. There are lots of reasons to give your RV a good, deep cleaning before you put it into Kansas or Missouri storage for the winter. For starters, it’ll be fresh and clean and ready when spring rolls back around. Cleaning out food items and other perishables cuts down on your risk of pest infestations, while removing clothes, linens, bath towels, and so on will help ensure that they’re fresh when you return to your RV. Ultimately, there’s simply no reason to leave personal items, electronics, and other belongings in your RV while it’s in storage, where they don’t do anyone any good.
Perform Final Prep. If your RV owner’s manual doesn’t suggest anything else, now’s the time to check all your window and door seals to make sure that they’re in good condition before you wrap the exterior of your RV with an RV cover, if you have one, cover your tires, and get ready to bid your RV adieu until the start of the next season. If you’re using covered RV storage in Missouri or Kansas, you might consider keeping the rooftop vents open to help circulate air and reduce the risk of mold and mildew. Come visit your RV a few times throughout the year, even while it’s in storage, just to keep an eye on things and catch any problems that may be developing before they get too serious.
Other Money-Saving Autumn and Winter RV Storage Tips:
- Choose the Right Parking Surface: Parking your RV or trailer on surfaces like grass or dirt might seem convenient, but this can accelerate tire deterioration. It’s best to opt for a hard, non-organic surface to prevent tire rot and ensure your RV remains in top shape.
- Invest in a Protective Cover: If your RV finds itself under the open sky, think about shielding it with a cover. Prolonged exposure to sun rays and the harsh winter conditions not only tarnishes the RV's exterior but can also lead to substantial roof repair expenses. An ounce of prevention now can save pounds of cure later.
At Countryside Self Storage, we offer vehicle storage units near you that value your RV as much as you do. With top-notch security and all the amenities you could hope for, we’ve got the vehicle storage option you need. For those seeking RV storage, Countryside Pittsburg (4th Street), Countryside Frontenac, and Countryside Joplin (W 20th Street) have you covered. Notably, our Joplin and Pittsburg locations also offer covered RV storage options for added protection against the elements. Don’t hesitate—reach out to any of the mentioned locations today to secure a spot for your RV today!
Countryside Pittsburg: 1800 E 4th Street, (620) 232-2265
Countryside Frontenac: 111 Kennedy Street, (620) 240-4097
Countryside Joplin: 1813 W 20th Street, (417) 623-5616