What Should You Do Before Storing an RV?
Sep 4, 2026 / Alyssa Duranty
Store an RV by cleaning the interior and exterior, removing food and trash, preparing tanks and systems according to the owner’s manual, checking tires and batteries, and reserving a vehicle space that fits the RV’s full dimensions. Measure the RV’s length, width, and height, including mirrors, ladders, mounted accessories, and tow equipment.
RV storage requirements vary by vehicle type, plumbing system, engine, battery setup, fuel type, local climate, and storage duration. Follow manufacturer guidance before preparing the RV or reserving vehicle storage.
RV Storage Essentials:
- Clean the RV interior and exterior before storage.
- Remove food, beverages, perishables, trash, and loose items.
- Empty and rinse waste tanks according to manufacturer guidance and local requirements.
- Follow the owner’s manual for fresh-water system drainage and winterization.
- Review battery-disconnect, generator, and fuel-system procedures.
- Check tire pressure, tire condition, covers, and exterior seals.
- Close windows, doors, roof vents, and exterior access points as directed.
- Measure the RV’s full dimensions before reserving storage.
- Confirm storage-space availability, access hours, and vehicle requirements with the selected location.
- Keep registration, insurance documents, keys, and other sensitive records with you.
RV Storage Checklist at a Glance:
What Should You Do Before Storing an RV?
Prepare an RV for storage by cleaning it, removing food and personal items, reviewing the owner’s manual, and completing manufacturer-recommended maintenance. Start early enough to address water systems, batteries, tires, fuel, and exterior protection before the RV is parked.
Use this process:
- Empty the refrigerator, cabinets, and storage areas.
- Remove food, beverages, trash, and perishable supplies.
- Clean the interior and exterior.
- Empty and rinse tanks according to manufacturer guidance and local rules.
- Review plumbing, battery, fuel, generator, and tire instructions.
- Measure the RV before reserving a storage space.
- Confirm the selected location’s vehicle requirements and access hours.
How Should You Clean an RV Before Storage?
Clean an RV before storage by removing food, trash, crumbs, dirt, and moisture from the interior and exterior. Check the kitchen, bathroom, seating, storage compartments, refrigerator, and exterior surfaces.
Before storage:
- Empty cabinets, drawers, and storage compartments.
- Remove food, trash, towels, and personal items.
- Clean kitchen surfaces and the refrigerator according to manufacturer instructions.
- Clean the bathroom, shower, and storage areas.
- Wash the exterior to remove road grime, bugs, and residue.
- Check roof seams, windows, lights, and exterior compartments.
- Let the RV dry fully before covering it.
Follow manufacturer guidance for refrigerator-door positioning during storage.
How Should You Prepare RV Tanks and Plumbing for Storage?
Prepare RV tanks and plumbing according to the owner’s manual. Empty and rinse waste tanks as directed, and follow local requirements for disposal.
Drain fresh-water tanks and water lines according to manufacturer guidance. Winterize the plumbing system when freezing temperatures are expected in your storage location.
Do not guess about plumbing preparation. RV water systems can vary by model, and the manufacturer’s winterization process provides the correct steps for your vehicle.
How Should You Prepare an RV Battery for Storage?
Prepare an RV battery by following the owner’s manual for charging, disconnecting, and maintenance. Review the manufacturer’s guidance for battery disconnect switches, generators, solar systems, and automatic-start features before storage.
Do not use a battery maintainer or other electrical equipment at the storage space unless the location specifically confirms it is allowed.
If the manufacturer recommends removing a battery, store it at home according to battery manufacturer guidance. Keep batteries, chargers, and related equipment out of the RV storage space unless approved by the location.
Should You Fill the Gas Tank Before Storing an RV?
Follow the RV and engine manufacturer’s guidance for fuel preparation. Diesel and gasoline systems can have different requirements for fuel level, stabilizer use, and long-term storage procedures.
Complete fuel-system maintenance before moving the RV into storage. Do not bring fuel containers, fuel stabilizer, oil, or other hazardous materials to a storage space.
How Should You Protect RV Tires During Storage?
Protect RV tires by checking their condition and pressure before storage. Use the manufacturer’s recommended storage pressure and inspect tires for visible wear or damage.
Tire covers can limit direct sun exposure when an RV is parked outdoors. Follow manufacturer guidance for wheel covers, blocks, pads, jacks, and other support methods.
Park the RV on a level, dry surface. Avoid standing water and check tires periodically during longer storage periods.
Should You Cover an RV in Storage?
Use a fitted RV cover, windshield shade, or tire covers when they fit the vehicle and storage conditions. Covers can limit dust, debris, and direct sun exposure on exterior finishes, dashboards, tires, and interior materials.
Choose covers designed for the RV’s size and shape. Follow manufacturer instructions for installation, ventilation, straps, and periodic checks.
Avoid wet, damaged, or poorly fitted covers that can shift in wind or hold moisture against the RV.
What Size RV Storage Space Do You Need?
Choose an RV storage space by measuring the vehicle’s full exterior dimensions. Include the RV body, mirrors, ladders, air-conditioning units, roof accessories, mounted equipment, tow setup, and rear attachments.
Before reserving:
- Measure the RV’s length, width, and height.
- Include mirrors, ladders, roof equipment, and exterior accessories.
- Compare measurements with available space dimensions.
- Confirm whether the location offers outdoor, covered, or enclosed vehicle spaces.
- Review posted access hours and vehicle requirements.
Use the Public Storage size guide to compare storage-space planning information before reserving.
Where Can You Find RV Storage?
Vehicle storage may be available at select Public Storage locations for eligible RVs. Available spaces can include outdoor parking, covered parking, and enclosed vehicle units.
RV storage availability, space dimensions, access hours, rental terms, and vehicle requirements vary by location. Stored vehicles must be operable, registered, and insured.
Contact the selected Public Storage location before reserving to confirm that your RV fits the available space and meets current requirements.
How Should You Prepare an RV for a Trip After Storage?
Prepare an RV for a trip after storage by completing a full walkthrough and following manufacturer guidance before driving. Inspect systems before restocking food, beverages, and travel supplies.
Check:
- Tires and tire pressure
- Battery charge and connections
- Fluid levels
- Exterior lights and brakes
- Roof seams and windows
- Plumbing and water systems
- Appliances
- Generator, if applicable
- Exterior compartments
- Safety gear and travel equipment
Restock the RV after you complete the inspection. This helps you avoid packing expired, leaking, or unneeded items.
Store Your RV With a Clear Plan.
RV storage works best when you clean and dry the vehicle, follow manufacturer instructions for tanks, plumbing, fuel, batteries, and tires, and reserve a vehicle space that fits the full RV dimensions. Check the RV periodically and complete a pre-trip walkthrough before returning to the road.
Find a Public Storage location near you to compare available vehicle storage options for eligible RVs. Confirm space dimensions, access hours, vehicle requirements, and rental terms before reserving.
A clear RV-storage plan can make the next trip easier to prepare for.
RV Storage FAQs
How long can you store an RV without using it?
An RV can remain stored for several months when it is cleaned, prepared according to manufacturer guidance, and checked periodically. Follow the owner’s manual for tanks, plumbing, fuel, tires, batteries, and generator procedures.
Should you winterize an RV before storage?
Winterize the RV’s water system when freezing temperatures are expected. Follow the owner’s manual for the correct process for your specific plumbing setup.
Is covered RV storage worth it?
Covered RV storage can limit direct sun, rain, leaves, and outdoor debris. The right option depends on the RV, local weather, storage period, and space availability.
What do you need to store an RV at Public Storage?
You need an operable, registered, and insured RV that fits the selected storage space. Measure the full RV and confirm available dimensions, access hours, and vehicle requirements before reserving.
Can you store an RV at Public Storage?
Eligible RVs may qualify for vehicle storage at select Public Storage locations. Confirm current availability and requirements with the selected property.
