Choosing the right storage location for your travel trailer is crucial for its longevity and your peace of mind. Ultimately, the best place to store your travel trailer depends on a balance of factors: budget, security needs, climate considerations, accessibility for maintenance and trips, and any Homeowners Association (HOA) restrictions. Weighing these carefully will ensure your investment remains protected and ready for your next adventure.
Understanding Your Travel Trailer Storage Options
The options for storing your travel trailer range from the convenience of your own property to specialized storage facilities, each with its own advantages and drawbacks. Consider carefully what is most important to you, considering cost, convenience, security, and the potential need for winterization or other protective measures.
Home Storage: Convenience at a Cost
Storing your travel trailer at home offers unparalleled convenience. You have immediate access for maintenance, packing, and spontaneous getaways. However, this convenience comes with potential challenges:
- Space limitations: Not all properties can accommodate a travel trailer, especially larger models.
- HOA restrictions: Many HOAs prohibit or severely restrict RV storage on residential properties. Fines for non-compliance can be steep.
- Aesthetics: A travel trailer parked in your yard may not be visually appealing and could impact property value.
- Security: While you can keep an eye on your trailer, it might be vulnerable to theft or vandalism if it’s easily visible.
- Environmental Exposure: Home storage, without a dedicated shelter, exposes your trailer to the elements, potentially accelerating wear and tear. Consider covering your trailer with a quality RV cover.
Indoor Storage Facilities: Premium Protection
Indoor storage is the gold standard for protecting your travel trailer. It offers complete protection from the elements, minimizing the risk of damage from sun, rain, snow, and wind. However, this level of protection comes at a premium cost.
- Climate Control: Many indoor facilities offer climate control, preventing temperature extremes and humidity fluctuations that can damage interior components.
- Security Features: Indoor facilities typically have robust security measures, including gated access, surveillance cameras, and on-site staff.
- Cost: Indoor storage is the most expensive option, making it less accessible for budget-conscious owners.
- Accessibility: Access hours may be limited, restricting your ability to retrieve your trailer at any time.
- Size Restrictions: Some indoor facilities may have size limitations, making them unsuitable for larger travel trailers.
Outdoor Storage Facilities: A Practical Compromise
Outdoor storage facilities offer a balance between cost and convenience. They’re generally more affordable than indoor storage while providing a dedicated space for your trailer.
- Cost-Effective: Outdoor storage is significantly cheaper than indoor storage, making it a more budget-friendly option.
- Accessibility: Many outdoor facilities offer 24/7 access, allowing you to retrieve your trailer whenever you need it.
- Security Measures: Reputable outdoor facilities typically have security features such as gated access, fencing, and surveillance cameras.
- Exposure to the Elements: Your trailer will be exposed to the elements, requiring a quality RV cover for protection.
- Potential for Damage: Depending on the facility, your trailer could be vulnerable to minor damage from other vehicles or weather events.
Covered Storage: Partial Protection
Covered storage offers partial protection from the elements, shielding your trailer from direct sunlight and rain. It’s a step up from basic outdoor storage but doesn’t provide the same level of protection as indoor storage.
- Protection from Sun and Rain: Covered storage significantly reduces the impact of sun and rain, preventing fading, cracking, and water damage.
- Reduced Heat Buildup: The cover helps to keep the interior cooler in hot weather.
- Lower Cost than Indoor Storage: Covered storage is more affordable than indoor storage while offering enhanced protection.
- Exposure to Wind and Humidity: Your trailer will still be exposed to wind and humidity, requiring additional protective measures.
- Potential for Damage from Strong Winds: The cover itself could be damaged or torn in strong winds, potentially exposing your trailer.
Key Considerations When Choosing a Storage Location
Beyond the type of storage, several factors influence the suitability of a particular location. Thoroughly evaluating these aspects will ensure you select the best option for your travel trailer and your specific needs.
Security and Surveillance
The level of security at a storage facility is paramount. Look for facilities with gated access, surveillance cameras, well-lit areas, and on-site staff or regular patrols. These measures deter theft and vandalism, protecting your investment.
Accessibility and Hours
Consider the accessibility of the storage facility and its operating hours. Can you easily maneuver your travel trailer in and out of the facility? Are the access hours convenient for your schedule? 24/7 access is ideal, but many facilities have restricted hours.
Climate and Environmental Factors
The climate in your area significantly impacts the storage requirements for your travel trailer. In areas with harsh winters, winterization is essential to prevent damage from freezing temperatures. In hot climates, protecting your trailer from the sun is crucial.
Cost and Budget
Storage costs vary widely depending on the type of facility, location, and features. Set a budget and compare prices carefully, considering the value offered for the cost. Don’t sacrifice security or protection to save a few dollars.
Contract Terms and Insurance
Carefully review the contract terms before signing a storage agreement. Understand the liability clauses, insurance requirements, and any restrictions on what you can do on the premises. Ensure your travel trailer is adequately insured against theft, damage, and liability.
Reputation and Reviews
Research the reputation of the storage facility by reading online reviews and asking for recommendations from other RV owners. A facility with a positive track record is more likely to provide reliable service and a safe storage environment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Travel Trailer Storage
Here are 12 common questions about travel trailer storage, answered definitively.
1. How much does it cost to store a travel trailer?
The cost to store a travel trailer varies significantly depending on location, facility type, and size of the trailer. Outdoor storage can range from $50 to $150 per month, covered storage from $100 to $250 per month, and indoor storage from $200 to $500+ per month. Prices are generally higher in urban areas and during peak seasons.
2. Is it better to store my RV indoors or outdoors?
Indoor storage is undoubtedly better for protecting your RV from the elements, but it’s also more expensive. Outdoor storage is a more affordable option, but you’ll need to invest in a quality RV cover to mitigate the effects of sun, rain, and snow. The best option depends on your budget and the climate in your area.
3. How do I prepare my travel trailer for long-term storage?
Preparing your travel trailer for long-term storage involves several steps: clean the interior thoroughly, remove perishable food items, winterize the plumbing system (if necessary), disconnect the battery, cover the tires, and use RV covers to protect the exterior. Consult your owner’s manual for specific recommendations.
4. Can I store my travel trailer on my property?
Whether you can store your travel trailer on your property depends on local ordinances and HOA regulations. Many communities have restrictions on RV storage, so it’s essential to check the rules before parking your trailer at home. Violations can result in fines.
5. What security measures should I look for in a storage facility?
Key security measures to look for include gated access, surveillance cameras, well-lit areas, on-site staff or regular patrols, and perimeter fencing. These features deter theft and vandalism, providing peace of mind.
6. Do I need to winterize my travel trailer before storing it?
If you live in an area with freezing temperatures, winterizing your travel trailer is essential. This involves draining the water system, adding antifreeze to the plumbing, and taking other precautions to prevent damage from freezing. Failure to winterize can lead to costly repairs.
7. How often should I check on my travel trailer while it’s in storage?
Ideally, you should check on your travel trailer at least once a month while it’s in storage. This allows you to inspect for any signs of damage, pests, or leaks and address them promptly. If you can’t check it yourself, consider asking a friend or paying the storage facility to do it for you.
8. What kind of RV cover should I use for outdoor storage?
Choose a breathable, waterproof RV cover that is specifically designed for your travel trailer’s size and shape. Avoid using tarps, as they can trap moisture and cause damage. Look for covers with UV protection and reinforced seams.
9. Can I keep the propane tanks connected while storing my travel trailer?
Most storage facilities require that propane tanks be disconnected or turned off while storing your travel trailer. Check with the facility’s regulations to ensure compliance. It’s also a good idea to inspect the tanks for leaks before storing them separately.
10. Should I remove the tires from my travel trailer during long-term storage?
Removing the tires isn’t necessary, but it can help prevent flat spots. If you choose to leave the tires on, ensure they are properly inflated and cover them to protect them from UV damage. Consider using tire covers or moving the trailer slightly every few months to redistribute the weight.
11. What about pests? How do I keep them out of my stored travel trailer?
Keeping pests out of your stored RV involves a multi-pronged approach: seal any cracks or openings, remove all food sources, use pest repellents (like dryer sheets or mothballs), and consider using traps. Regularly inspect your RV for signs of infestation.
12. Does my RV insurance cover my travel trailer while it’s in storage?
Review your RV insurance policy to determine whether it covers your travel trailer while it’s in storage. Many policies offer comprehensive coverage that includes theft, vandalism, and damage from natural disasters. However, some policies may have exclusions or limitations.
By carefully considering these factors and answering these questions, you’ll be well-equipped to choose the best storage location for your travel trailer, ensuring its safety and longevity for years to come. Happy travels!