Is it OK to store your RV outside?

Many RV owners face the dilemma of whether it’s alright to keep their recreational vehicle outside or if it’s better to store it indoors. There are pros and cons to both options that are important to consider.

The benefits of storing your RV outside

Storing your RV outdoors offers some advantages:

• Convenience – Keeping the RV on your property or in your driveway is easy access when you want to use it. You don’t have to go pick it up from a storage facility.
• Saves money – Outdoor RV storage is usually free or very affordable compared to paying for an indoor storage unit.
• Allows regular maintenance – Having the RV at home makes it simpler to do regular upkeep and repairs throughout the off-season.
• Quick getaways – With the RV parked out back, it’s easy to take off for a weekend adventure anytime without advance planning.

If you have enough room on your property, keeping your RV outside can be an attractive option for many owners.

Potential downsides of outdoor RV storage

However, storing your recreational vehicle outdoors also comes with some possible drawbacks:

• Exposure to elements – Snow, rain, wind, sun and other weather elements can damage the RV exterior over time.
• Risk of vandalism – RVs left unattended outside are more vulnerable to vandals or thieves.
• Violating ordinances – Many neighborhoods prohibit parking RVs long-term on driveways or streets.
• Yard clutter – A large RV may make your property look cluttered and messy.
• Pests – Rodents or insects may try to nest in or around an RV that sits unused for months.

Depending on your climate and neighborhood, these factors may make outdoor storage impractical or inadvisable.

Benefits of indoor RV storage

Storing your RV inside a garage, shed or storage facility provides some key protections:

• Shields RV from weather – Your RV is safe from rain, snow, sun, wind and other elements that can degrade its exterior.
• Added security – Indoor storage units often have security cameras, locked gates, etc. to prevent theft and vandalism.
• Climate control – Heated and cooled facilities prevent mold/mildew and help preserve the RV interior.
• Out of sight – Storing the RV indoors keeps your property tidy and avoids annoying neighbors.
• Often easier access – Storage facilities have large drive-through doors and room to maneuver RVs in and out.

For RVers who use their vehicle frequently or live in extreme climates, indoor storage can be worth the expense.

Potential negatives of indoor RV storage

On the other hand, keeping your RV in a storage unit also comes with some downsides:

• Higher cost – Indoor RV storage typically starts at $100/month and can cost over $500/month in some areas.
• Inconvenience – You need to drive to the storage facility every time you want to use the RV.
• Restricted access – Storage facilities often have limited hours for picking up or dropping off the vehicle.
• Tight spacing – Units may make it difficult to access all sides of the RV for cleaning and repairs.
• Risk of damage – Backing an RV into a small unit takes skill and mishaps can happen.

The price and hassle of getting to an indoor storage space is the biggest deterrent for many RV owners.

Factors to consider when deciding on RV storage

When choosing whether to store your RV outside versus inside, there are several important factors to take into account:

• Local weather and climate – What temperature extremes, humidity levels, wind/hail/snow will the RV be exposed to outside? Mild climates favor outdoor storage.
• Frequency of RV use – If you use the RV often, outdoor storage offers easier access. Infrequent RVers may prefer indoor storage.
• Neighborhood rules – Check your homeowners association guidelines and local ordinances before parking an RV outside for extended times.
• Security concerns – Is theft or vandalism an issue in your area? Indoor storage provides more protection.
• Yard space – Only keep your RV outdoors if you have ample room without cluttering your property.
• Budget for storage – Indoor units average $100-$250 monthly. Is this affordable for your family?
• RV size – Larger RVs are harder to store indoors. Compare unit sizes to your RV dimensions.

Taking time to carefully assess these factors will help you decide whether outdoor or indoor storage is the best choice for protecting your valuable RV investment.

Tips for storing your RV outside

If you determine that keeping your RV outdoors is the best option, follow these tips to protect it from the elements:

• Park on a paved surface if possible, rather than grass or dirt that can promote rust.
• Place planks under tires and jacks to evenly distribute weight.
• Cover tires from direct sunlight to avoid dry rot and cracking.
• Invest in a fitted, waterproof RV cover appropriate for your region.
• Seal all exterior vents, windows and openings to keep out mice and insects.
• Check weather forecasts and take extra precautions as needed in extreme cold, heat, wind or storms.
• Keep roof and exterior washed and waxed for protection from UV rays.
• Remove snow buildup promptly to avoid roof damage.
• Check battery charge and tire air pressure every month.

Taking the right preventative measures can help your RV stay in good shape even when stored outdoors.

Finding the best indoor RV storage

If keeping your RV inside is the safest option, look for a high-quality indoor storage facility. Here’s what to seek out:

• Fully enclosed, climate-controlled units tall and wide enough to accommodate your RV.
• 24/7 video monitoring and keypad gate access for security.
• Convenient monthly rental terms without lengthy contracts.
• Ample drive-through spaces to maneuver in and out of units easily.
• On-site staff to assist with parking and provide lockout service.
• RV techs or mechanics affiliated with the facility for service.
• RV wash station and dump facilities to empty holding tanks.

A full-service indoor RV storage facility provides peace of mind that your vehicle is secure and well cared for.

Other creative RV storage solutions

If neither outdoor parking nor traditional self-storage seems ideal, there are some other creative solutions for protecting your RV:

• Rent a carport – Enclosed metal carports on your property can shield RVs from sun, snow and rain at an affordable cost.
• Ask friends/family – See if any relatives or friends with large garages or barns would let you park inside.
• Share storage space – Split costs with a fellow RVer by renting a large garage to accommodate both vehicles.
• Join an RV club – Club membership sometimes provides access to group storage facilities at a discounted rate.
• Park at a marina – Off-season boat slip rentals can sometimes accommodate an RV.

It pays to be creative and utilize all options available in your area for sheltered RV parking.

Conclusion

Deciding where to store your RV comes down to assessing your specific needs and situation. Storing outdoors offers convenience and potential cost savings but also exposes your RV to risks. Indoor storage provides security but can be expensive and difficult to access. Ultimately, you need to weigh factors like climate, frequency of use, yard space and budget to determine if outdoor or indoor storage is the right choice. Taking the time to properly maintain and protect your RV, wherever you keep it, ensures you’ll enjoy many seasons of travels ahead.