Owning an RV opens up endless possibilities for adventure, but when the open road isn’t calling, figuring out where to store your RV is crucial. Whether you choose to keep your RV at home or opt for a professional storage facility, each option comes with its own set of considerations. This guide will help you explore the benefits and challenges of both approaches, providing essential tips for making the best decision for your needs.
Storing Your RV at Home
Storing your RV at home can be both convenient and cost-effective, but it requires careful planning to ensure it fits your space and complies with local regulations. Here are some key factors to consider.
Benefits of Storing at Home
1. Cost-Effective: Storing your RV at home eliminates the monthly storage fees that come with professional facilities, making it an economical option.
2. Convenience: Having your RV close by makes it easier to pack, unpack, clean, and maintain your vehicle. You can easily load up before a trip and tackle maintenance tasks on your own schedule.
3. Security: By keeping your RV in your own yard or driveway, you can monitor it frequently, reducing the risk of theft or damage. You also have the option to enhance security with additional measures such as cameras or locks.
4. Additional Uses: Your RV can serve as extra living space when not on the road. It can double as an office, a guest room, or even a private movie night venue, offering flexibility that a storage facility cannot provide.
Challenges of Storing at Home
1. Local Regulations: Many neighborhoods, especially those governed by Homeowners Associations (HOAs), have strict rules regarding RV storage. Some places limit how long an RV can be parked in a driveway or where it can be stored on the property. Before committing to home storage, be sure to research local ordinances to avoid fines.
2. Space Requirements: You’ll need to measure your property to ensure your RV will fit comfortably. Don’t forget to account for the length, height, and width, especially if you have slides. Be mindful of overhead branches, utility wires, and other obstacles like fences.
3. Accessibility: Consider the pitch and grade of your driveway or yard, as this can make hitching and unhitching your RV difficult. You’ll also want to ensure there’s enough space to open doors and storage compartments while parked.
4. Utility Connections: Most homes don’t have electrical hookups suitable for an RV. You can hire an electrician to install a 30- or 50-amp outlet, which will allow you to use your RV’s appliances and cool the refrigerator before trips. Alternatively, a simple adapter can connect your RV to a standard 15- or 20-amp outlet, though this will limit your power usage.
5. Water and Sewer Hookups: Having a water source nearby, like an outdoor hose spigot, is useful for filling up tanks or cleaning. Installing a sewer hookup is less common but highly convenient for those who plan to use their RV frequently at home.
Storage Tips for Home
- Disconnect Batteries: If you don’t have shore power, disconnect the RV’s batteries to prevent small draws from draining them during long-term storage.
- Level Your RV: Most RV refrigerators need to be level to function properly. Be sure to level your RV while in storage if you plan to cool the refrigerator and pre-load perishables before a trip.
- Parking Pads: If you’re storing your RV in your yard, consider installing a parking pad to avoid soft ground, which can cause instability.
Storing Your RV at a Storage Facility
For those who lack the space or prefer not to store their RV at home, professional storage facilities offer various solutions with different price points and amenities. Here are the important considerations when choosing this option.
Benefits of Storing at a Facility
Preservation: Indoor or covered storage provides better protection from the elements. This can prevent weather-related damage, such as sun bleaching or water leaks, preserving your RV's exterior and interior.
Security: Professional storage facilities often provide enhanced security features, such as gated access, surveillance cameras, and on-site personnel, reducing the likelihood of theft or vandalism.
Amenities: Many RV storage facilities offer additional amenities such as electrical hookups, dump stations, and potable water stations. These can make preparing for a trip easier by allowing you to charge your batteries, fill your water tank, and empty your waste tanks on-site.
Types of Storage Facilities
Indoor Storage: This option offers the most protection but is also the most expensive. Climate-controlled indoor storage prevents the need for winterizing your RV, saving time and money in cold climates. However, indoor spots can be limited and costly, ranging from $100 to over $200 per month depending on location and features.
Outdoor Storage: More affordable and widely available, outdoor storage is a simple parking solution. While your RV will be exposed to the elements, it’s a cost-effective choice for those in milder climates or those who don’t mind winterizing their vehicle.
Seasonal vs. Year-Round Storage
- Year-Round Storage: Typically, year-round storage is cheaper on a per-month basis. It is ideal for those who need consistent access to their RV or live in areas where RVing is a year-round activity.
- Seasonal Storage: For those who don’t use their RV during winter, seasonal storage might make more sense. Though it tends to be more expensive per month, you only pay for the months when you need it.
Considerations When Choosing a Facility
Access and Logistics: Consider how often you’ll need to access your RV. If you’ll be packing and unpacking at home, a simple outdoor storage spot might suffice. However, if you plan to leave directly from the storage facility, amenities like electrical hookups and a dump station may be essential.
Cost: RV storage costs vary significantly based on location and amenities. Prices for outdoor parking can start as low as $50 per month, while indoor climate-controlled storage can exceed $200 per month.
Security Measures
When storing your RV, particularly at a facility, security is paramount. Look for locations that offer gated access, security cameras, and personnel on-site. No single measure can prevent theft, but layering security features will significantly reduce risk.
Storing your RV at home offers convenience, cost savings, and extra utility, but requires space, proper setup, and adherence to local regulations. On the other hand, RV storage facilities provide added security and protection but come at a higher price point. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your budget, property layout, and how often you plan to use your RV. By weighing these factors, you can find the ideal storage solution that fits your lifestyle and ensures your RV is road-ready for your next adventure.
