Essential Tips for Storing Your Boat and RV

 


It certainly feels great when you are exploring scenic highways or beautiful open waters in your RV. The vehicle not only offers you an incredible freedom and thrill but also becomes an important part of your journey, thus helping you create those memories of a lifetime.  

However, when the season of travel ends, or when you’re not using your vehicle for an extended period, you need to take proper care of your vehicle. Without the right preparation, your vehicle could face a lot of damage from harsh weather, pests, or mechanical issues. To prevent these wear and tear, vehicle storage becomes crucial. And that’s why you need to choose a safe and secure vehicle storage facility which would follow the right maintenance practices and use protective storage methods that can make a huge difference in preserving your RV or boat’s condition.  

Whether you’re looking for enclosed vehicle storage for maximum protection or an affordable covered option, knowing the best RV storage solutions will help you avoid common pitfalls. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key steps to safely store your RV and boat, ensuring they’re ready to hit the road or water whenever adventure calls.  

1. Choose the Right Storage Facility 

 

The first step in protecting your RV or boat is selecting the right storage location. Many homeowners don’t have enough space to store large vehicles, making a vehicle storage facility the best option. But not all facilities offer the same level of security and protection. 

 

When selecting a storage facility, consider: 

 

  • Security: Look for gated access, surveillance cameras, and on-site monitoring. 

  • Space and Accessibility: Make sure the facility has wide driveways to park easily. 

  • Type of Storage: There are different types of storage units. But our advice is that you should choose enclosed vehicle storage because it will protect your boat or RV from additional damage from the elements. 

 

2. Clean Your RV and Boat Before Storage 

 

Dirt, salt, and moisture can cause long-term damage if left on your boat or RV. Before putting your vehicle in storage, follow these steps: 

 

  1. The exterior should be washed out to get rid of dust, grime, and salt deposits. 

  1. Interior cleaning is a must to remove mold and odor buildup on floors, cabinets, and upholstery. 

  1. In case of RVs, empty the water tanks to avoid freezing and leakage. 

  1. Apply protective wax on boats and RVs to keep them safe from elements. 

 

3. Do Necessary Maintenance  

 

Check for any possible maintenance issues before storing your RV or boat. Do not ignore even the smallest of problems. Otherwise, it may lead to costly repairs. 

 

  • Check for leaks and prepare the seals around windows and doors. 

  • Inflate tires to avoid flat spots. 

  • Change oil and top off fluids to prevent engine damage during storage. 

  • Disconnect the battery to prevent drainage. 

  • Lubricate any moving parts such as hinges and locks to avoid rust. 

  

A well-maintained vehicle will be easier to take out of storage when you're ready to hit the road or water again. 

4. Protection From Pests 

 

Rodents and insects can cause widespread destruction to your vehicle when you keep it in storage for a long period of time. To keep these animals away: 

  

  • Seal all openings and vent, including the exhaust pipe. 

  • Use of pest repellents or traps inside the vehicle. 

  • Avoid food and trash inside the RV to keep critters away. 

 

5. Use a Storage Checklist 

 

Having an RV storage checklist would prevent missing any vital steps before you store the RV. This includes: 

  • Cleaning and drying all surfaces. 

  • Checking if any maintenance is required, even if it is a minor one. 

  • Covering the vehicle to protect it from dust and weather. 

  • Locking the doors and windows. 

  • Removing the battery and appliances. 

 

Following a checklist makes the process smooth and helps you prepare your RV or boat for long-term storage. 

6. Storage Options 

 

Different storage units provide diverse levels of protection. However, the three primary types include:  

 

Open Storage – Great for short storage but provides no protection against the elements. 

Covered Storage – Even though it protects the vehicle from sunshine and rain, it is not a foolproof solution.  

Enclosed storage – The best way to safeguard against weather and theft. 

 

The right RV storage solutions would depend on your budget and the number of months you would be storing your vehicle as well as how often you would use your vehicle. 

 

7. Ensure Proper Ventilation 

 

Poor ventilation can lead to mold, mildew, and unpleasant odors. If using enclosed vehicle storage, keep vents slightly open to allow airflow. Using moisture absorbers inside your boat or RV can also help reduce humidity. 

 

8. Secure Your Vehicle 

 

Even with the best security measures at a vehicle storage facility, it's essential to take extra precautions. 

 

  • Remove valuables from your RV or boat before storage. 

  • Secure the vehicle even further with wheel locks or hitch locks. 

  • Cover the vehicle so that it does not easily attract the attention of thieves. 

  

9. Monitor Your Vehicle Periodically 

 

If you plan to keep your RV or boat for a long time, make it a point to visit the vehicle storage facility often to inspect its condition. You must check for leaks, battery life, and look for any signs of pest invasion. Keeping an eye on your vehicle means that you can solve any issues before they become big concerns. 

 

10. Plan for Easy Take Out 

 

Before taking your RV or boat out of storage, ensure it’s ready for use. 

  • Check the tire pressure. 

  • Look for the fluid levels. 

  • Reconnect the battery and test all electrical systems. 

  • Check for any damage or pest activity. 

 

A short inspection will save you time and ensure a smooth transition back to the road or water. 

 

How to Find the Best Storage Facility for Your Needs 

 

Selecting the right RV storage locations near me is key to keeping your RV or boat safe and well-maintained. At Capital RV & Boat Storage, we offer secure and spacious RV & boat storage solutions designed to meet every need. 

 

Fenced and Gated Facilities –Your vehicle is safe and secure with 24/7 camera surveillance. 

Enclosed & Covered Options: Select either enclosed storage or covered parking according to your requirements. 

Easy access – Wide driveways and 24-hour access ensure ease of use. 

Electricity on covered units: Perfect for folks who need to keep their RV in good storage condition. 

Flexible contracts- No long-term contracts, simply easy month to month storage. 

 

If you need reliable vehicle storage solutions, you can count on Capital RV & Boat Storage, the best choice in security, convenience, and affordability. Store your RV and boat with confidence today! 


Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Is 24/7 Access to Your Stored Vehicle Really Necessary?

  Selecting the ideal RV storage facility near your location is tricky. There are many factors which comes in mind like security, location, amenities, etc. However, there is one question that people ask very frequently: Does your vehicle really need round the clock access? If you have searched for RV storage locations near me with 24*7 access facility, the first thing we need to understand the advantages and disadvantages of 24/7 access can help you make an informed decision. Understanding 24/7 Access in the Vehicle Facility 24/7 access to your stored vehicle means that you can casually drop by to inspect your RV anytime of the day, whether it is in the morning, afternoon or at night. That sounds convenient, right? However, before making a decision, you need to identify how many times would you really need to access your vehicle. Pros of 24/7 Access In The Facility 1. Convenience One of the greatest benefits of 24hours access availability in the facility is the flexibility. Perhaps...
Read more

Essential Tips for Choosing the Best RV Storage Facility

  Finding your way through the too-often bewildering array of options for where to store your recreational vehicle can be summed up in a single word: "careful". Here's how not to get lost. Selecting a top-notch facility to store your RV is of utmost importance. You’ve made a significant investment in your rig and you can’t simply entrust it to just any space and hope for the best. You must find a secure space that will ensure your investment remains protected throughout the time it isn’t in use. The first thing you need to do when selecting an RV storage space is to run down through your list of  facilities in your zip code . Once you’ve got a stockpile of places, you should figure out a way for you to distill the pack down to just a handful of spaces that you can check out in person. Finding secure, convenient, and reasonably priced storage can be a real hassle for the typical RV owner. Unless you have the benefit of a seasoned industry professional advising you on what ...
Read more

Role of Covered Storage Solution for Large Vehicles

  The big vehicle you own, be it an RV or a boat, is a serious and substantial investment. You must pull out all the stops if you want to maintain its value. That’s where a good storage solution comes into play. And by good, we mean covered. Why covered storage? For one, a structure of some sort is the only way to defend your investment against harmful UV—ultraviolet—rays, which do far more damage than one might think. Buses, RVs, and trucks are always at the mercy of the weather. When constant exposure to the sun, rain, snow, or even airborne debris carries a risk of various kinds of damage. Then there are the problems that arise simply from the vehicles being left unchecked for extended periods. They can be targets for theft and vandalism, and, when accessible to unauthorized persons, can result in liability problems for the owner.  These are vehicles into which owners have poured their hearts, and to let them experience these kinds of hazards is the source of several great ...
Read more