Find RV Storage Near You
An RV is a great way to enjoy the open road and go on adventures you might not experience otherwise. But when it’s not in use, an RV takes up a lot of space, and finding the right place to keep it can be a challenge.
That’s where RV storage comes in. Using a storage facility is a convenient way to keep your RV safe, whether you’re away for an extended period or simply need a secure spot during the off-season.
Below, we’ll cover what RV storage is, what you can expect when storing your RV, and answer some of the most common questions people have about it.
What is RV Storage?
Whether your RV is small or large, parking it at home might work during the summer when you’re using it often. But once winter arrives, it’s left exposed to harsh weather, covered with a tarp, and taking up valuable lawn or driveway space—often becoming more of an eyesore than a convenience.
So what’s the solution when your RV needs a proper place to stay? That’s where RV storage comes in. RV storage provides a secure spot to park your vehicle when it’s not in use, keeping it protected and out of the way.
Since RVs can range from 18 to 25 feet in length and weigh thousands of pounds, storing them is no small task. RV storage facilities are designed specifically to handle these needs, giving you peace of mind and freeing up space at home.
What to Expect When Storing Your RV at a Storage Unit
Most people turn to RV storage simply because they don’t have the space or ability to keep a motorhome on their property. After all, most homes aren’t designed to accommodate such a large vehicle. And even if you do have the space, you’d likely be giving up your driveway or part of your landscaping to park it there.
While storage may start out as a necessity, there are many advantages to choosing an RV storage facility over keeping it at home. One of the biggest benefits is security. Most facilities are fenced, well lit, and require an access code to enter. Many are also equipped with video surveillance, and some even include audio monitoring. At certain 24-hour access locations, a manager or security staff may live on-site to help ensure your RV is always protected.
Another major benefit is protection from the elements. Since RVs rarely fit into a home garage, they’re often left exposed outdoors. Storage facilities can offer covered parking or even fully enclosed units, which provide far better protection than a driveway or yard ever could. Choosing one of these options can help prevent costly repairs caused by long-term sun, rain, snow, or storm exposure.
Finally, many RV storage facilities go beyond the basics and offer convenient amenities. Some provide 24-hour access, so you can visit your RV anytime, while others include extras like wash stations and electrical hookups to keep your vehicle in top condition.
Types of Outdoor RV Storage Options
When most people think of storage, they picture a garage-like space used to hold belongings that don’t fit at home. RV storage works a little differently, with three main options available: outdoor parking spaces, covered RV storage, and indoor storage units.
Of these, outdoor parking spaces are the most common and widely available. They’re also the most affordable option, though they offer the fewest perks. Covered and indoor storage provide added protection and amenities that can greatly improve your storage experience, but they typically cost more and may be harder to find.
When deciding which type of RV storage is right for you, it’s important to consider price, size, and location. Below, we’ll go over each option in more detail so you know what to expect.
Indoor or Covered RV Storage
When it comes to indoor or covered RV storage, there are three main types to choose from:
Fully Enclosed Storage Units – These are like oversized garages built specifically for RVs. They offer complete protection from the elements, added security, and often climate control to help prevent weather-related wear. Enclosed units are ideal if you want maximum protection, especially during long-term storage or in areas with harsh weather.
Stand-Alone Canopies – These open-sided structures provide a roof overhead to shield your RV from sun, rain, and snow. While they don’t block wind or offer full security, they’re a cost-effective way to prevent sun fading and water damage.
Walled Canopies – These are similar to stand-alone canopies but feature partial walls for added protection from wind, rain, and blowing debris. They’re a great balance between cost and coverage.
RV Parking Spaces
RV parking spaces are the other type of RV storage and you can typically find these at any storage facility, especially if they offer car storage. When you rent one of these parking spots, you receive a designated paved spot where you park your RV. You may find that there is a specific area where only RVs are parked, or the facility may just have parking spots around the building where you can park the RV.
With an RV parking space, your RV will be exposed to the elements and you may want to purchase a cover to protect it. This is another good option for individuals who need to keep their RV parked somewhere.
RV Storage Size Guide and Unit Size Options
Once you’ve chosen the type of storage that works best for you, the next step is to determine the right size for your RV. There are several options available, which we’ll outline below.
25-Foot RV Storage
A 25-foot RV storage space may sound large, but when you consider the actual size of most RVs, it fills up quickly. This space is best suited for Class B and Class C campers, toy haulers, travel trailers, and pop-up campers. In some cases, these RVs can also fit into a 10x25 storage unit, depending on the layout and available space.
30-Foot RV Storage
A 30-foot RV storage space provides room for slightly larger campers compared to a 25-foot space. This size can typically accommodate small to medium Class B campers, large pop-up trailers, travel trailers, fifth-wheels, and smaller Class C campers. While some facilities offer 10x30 storage units, they are usually too short to fit these RVs comfortably.
35-Foot RV Storagee
A 35-foot RV storage space can accommodate larger RVs than the smaller options. This size is suitable for large Class B and Class C campers, medium to large travel trailers, large toy haulers, small to medium fifth-wheels, and smaller Class A motorhomes.
40-Foot RV Storage
A 40-foot RV storage space can accommodate nearly every type of RV, with the exception of the very largest models on the market. This size is suitable for most Class A motorhomes, fifth-wheels, and large travel trailers, as well as almost any camper or trailer you might own. In most cases, a 40-foot space provides the flexibility to store virtually any RV with room to spare.
50-Foot RV Storage
A 50-foot RV storage space is designed to handle even the largest RVs on the market. It’s rare to find a motorhome, trailer, or camper that won’t fit into a unit this size. From destination trailers and oversized fifth-wheels to the biggest Class A motorhomes, virtually any RV can be stored comfortably in a 50-foot space.
RV Storage Insurance
It’s natural to worry about the safety of your RV while it’s in storage -- you’re not alone in that concern. Before renting a space at your local RV storage facility, take a moment to review your current RV insurance policy to see if it covers damage, theft, or liability while the vehicle is stored.
If your policy doesn’t provide this protection, consider securing coverage that does. Protecting your RV with the right insurance not only safeguards your investment but also gives you the peace of mind you deserve.
How to Prepare Your RV for Storage
Before you can store your RV, you need to first prepare it and maintain it. If you do not, your RV can suffer damage and it may not work properly when it comes time to drive it off onto your next adventure.
Below, we will discuss the steps you should take to prepare your RV for storage. Of course, these steps should only be taken if you plan to store your RV for an extended period as it would not make any sense to do all these steps to simply take your RV out the next week.
Clean your RV
Just as you would a boat or car, you want to clean the RV, which means washing it and drying it thoroughly. If your RV is too big to care for on your own, you should hire someone to clean it for you or take it to an RV wash to have the cleaning performed.
Unplug your electrical components including the battery.
You should unplug all electrical components that may be plugged in within your RV. For example, you would want to unplug the TV, refrigerator, alarm clocks, and so on as they will drain the battery if left plugged in.
You also want to make sure you disconnect and remove the battery, especially in the winter or when you plan to store the RV for an extended time. You can purchase a trickle battery charger to help keep the charge in your battery too.
Make sure the pipes are dried out.
This is an especially important step if you plan to store your RV over the winter because moisture or water left in the pipes can freeze and then cause the pipes to burst. You will need to dry out all the pipes and, when possible, pour antifreeze into the system and pipes to prevent any freezing issues.
Prepare the engine and fuel tank.
You want to top off all fluids and add antifreeze to the radiator. As you top off your fluids, make sure to top off the fuel tank too and add a fuel stabilizer to prevent the fuel from going bad.
Fill up your tires to max level.
Before putting your RV into storage, it’s important to prepare your tires to prevent damage. Make sure they are properly inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure, as underinflated tires can develop flat spots over time. If possible, move the RV slightly every few weeks to shift the weight, or use tire covers and blocks to protect them from sunlight and uneven pressure. Taking these simple steps will help extend the life of your tires while your RV is in storage.
Prepare the RV for outdoor storage.
Outdoor storage is one of the most common options for RV owners. If you’re storing your RV indoors, you can stop after step five. However, for outdoor storage, it’s important to inspect the roof for leaks and make any necessary repairs or apply sealant where needed.
Finally, invest in a high-quality RV cover and secure it properly to protect your vehicle from the elements while it’s stored outside.
Frequently Asked RV Storage Questions
Below, you will find some of the most commonly asked and answered questions about RV storage.
Is there any type of minimum rental term that I must meet?
The minimum rental term at most RV storage facilities is one month, which is the month you pay for. If you only want to rent for one month or a couple months, simply keep your lease paid current and then move out prior to the next due date for your lease term.
Do check with the RV storage facility first though to check their policies and ensure you do not need to give a notice prior to ending your lease on your unit.
What type of amenities do RV storage facilities offer?
Since all RV storage facilities are different, there is no way to tell you exactly what amenities each one will have. However, some of the most commonly found amenities at RV storage facilities include proper and adequate lighting, air compressors on site, wash and dump stations, and electrical outlets.
What type of RV or large sized vehicle can I store at a storage facility?
RV storage facilities are designed to handle the largest possible RVs, trailers, campers, motorhomes, fifth-wheels, travel trailers, destination trailers, and more.
Will my RV be safe while at a storage unit?
Yes, RV storage is safe. Reputable facilities take multiple precautions to protect your vehicle, often including features such as fencing, 24-hour surveillance, bright lighting, gated access, an on-site manager, and more.
When choosing a facility, select one that gives you peace of mind.
Can I live in my RV while it is parked at a storage facility?
No. You cannot live in your RV while it is parked at a storage facility. Storing your RV allows you to keep it off your property and in a safe place while it is not in use. Most facilities will require you to sign a form that states you will abide by their policies and this includes NOT living in the RV while it is being stored.
How can I find RV storage near me?
Finding RV storage near you is simple with StorageArea.com. Just enter your city, ZIP code, or address into the search bar, and you’ll instantly see a list of nearby storage facilities with available RV parking and unit options. From there, you can compare prices, features, and sizes, then reserve your space online for free in just minutes.