Whether a travel trailer can fit in a garage is contingent on meticulously measuring both your trailer and your garage, considering factors like height, length, width, and potential obstructions. While some compact trailers can indeed find a home indoors, most require external storage due to their considerable size.
Dimensions Determine Destiny: Measuring for Success
The dream of storing your travel trailer safely within the confines of your garage is appealing. It offers protection from the elements, deters theft, and provides a convenient space for maintenance. However, that dream hinges on a realistic assessment of dimensional compatibility.
Understanding Travel Trailer Dimensions
Travel trailers come in a dizzying array of sizes, from ultra-light models that barely surpass the length of a large car to behemoths that rival the length of a city bus. Crucially, three dimensions are paramount:
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Overall Length: This includes the trailer’s tongue (the part that connects to the tow vehicle) and any rear-mounted accessories like spare tire carriers or bike racks. Ignoring this can lead to unpleasant surprises when attempting to maneuver the trailer into a garage.
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Overall Width: This measurement considers the widest point of the trailer, typically the axles or any protruding awnings. Ensure there’s ample clearance to avoid scraping against garage door frames or walls.
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Overall Height: This is perhaps the most frequently overlooked dimension. It includes everything from the ground to the highest point, which could be an air conditioner unit, a satellite dish, or even the roof of a vent fan. This measurement is particularly important when factoring in the garage door opening height.
Assessing Garage Dimensions
Equally important is a thorough measurement of your garage’s internal dimensions. Don’t rely solely on exterior measurements; internal dimensions are what truly matter. Pay close attention to:
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Garage Door Opening Height: This is the vertical distance from the ground to the bottom of the raised garage door. This is often the critical limiting factor.
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Garage Door Opening Width: The horizontal distance between the garage door frame edges.
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Internal Garage Depth: The distance from the inside of the garage door to the back wall. This dimension, coupled with the trailer’s overall length, will determine if the trailer can physically fit.
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Internal Garage Width: The distance between the side walls of the garage.
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Obstructions: Account for any pipes, electrical boxes, shelving, or other obstructions that might reduce usable space.
The Importance of Clearance
Even if the dimensions appear to match on paper, don’t underestimate the importance of clearance. A few extra inches on all sides can make a huge difference in maneuverability and prevent accidental damage. Aim for at least 6 inches of clearance on each side and above the trailer.
Considerations Beyond Dimensions: Navigating the Nuances
Beyond the raw numbers, several other factors can influence the feasibility of storing a travel trailer in a garage.
Maneuverability Challenges
Even with adequate space, maneuvering a large travel trailer into a tight garage can be challenging. Consider the turning radius of your trailer and the layout of your driveway. A long, narrow driveway or obstacles near the garage entrance can make the process difficult, if not impossible. Consider practicing backing into the garage in an open space first.
Garage Door Types and Limitations
The type of garage door can also be a factor. A standard sectional garage door typically provides adequate opening height. However, older one-piece doors may swing outwards, reducing the usable depth inside the garage.
De-winterizing/Winterizing Space
If your goal is winterizing or de-winterizing your trailer in the garage, factor in the space you will need to move around inside the trailer and access all the relevant systems.
FAQ: Answering Your Burning Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the intricacies of storing travel trailers in garages:
FAQ 1: What’s the average height of a travel trailer?
The average height of a travel trailer ranges from 9 to 11 feet. This is a crucial figure to keep in mind when measuring your garage door opening height. Always check the specific specifications of your trailer model.
FAQ 2: Are there travel trailers specifically designed for garage storage?
Yes, some manufacturers offer compact or “garage-able” travel trailers designed to fit in standard-sized garages. These often have lower profiles and shorter lengths.
FAQ 3: Can I modify my garage door to increase the opening height?
In some cases, you can modify your garage door opening by installing a high-lift track system. This allows the door to rise higher, providing additional clearance. However, this modification can be costly and may require professional installation.
FAQ 4: What happens if my trailer is slightly too long?
If the length is the only limiting factor, consider whether you can remove or retract the trailer tongue or rear accessories to gain a few inches. Some trailers have adjustable tongues for this purpose.
FAQ 5: Will storing my trailer in the garage affect my homeowners insurance?
It’s always best to consult with your insurance provider to understand how storing your trailer in the garage might affect your coverage. In some cases, it may result in lower premiums.
FAQ 6: What are the benefits of storing my travel trailer in a garage?
The benefits include protection from the elements, such as sun, rain, and snow; enhanced security, deterring theft and vandalism; and convenient access for maintenance and repairs.
FAQ 7: What are the drawbacks of storing my travel trailer in a garage?
Drawbacks can include reduced garage space for other vehicles or storage; potential damage to the trailer or garage walls during maneuvering; and the challenge of maneuvering a large trailer into a tight space.
FAQ 8: What is the minimum garage door height required for most travel trailers?
A minimum garage door height of 10 feet is typically required for most travel trailers, but again, check your specific trailer’s height before assuming.
FAQ 9: Should I deflate the tires to lower the trailer’s height?
While deflating the tires might seem like a solution, it’s generally not recommended. It can damage the tires and rims over time and may not provide enough of a reduction in height to make a significant difference.
FAQ 10: Is it better to store my travel trailer indoors or outdoors?
Indoor storage is generally preferable as it offers superior protection from the elements and reduces the risk of theft and vandalism.
FAQ 11: What if I have a two-car garage? Can I fit a travel trailer in one bay?
It depends on the size of your two-car garage and the travel trailer. Measure both bays individually, as they may not be the same size. A small trailer may fit in one bay, leaving the other available for a vehicle.
FAQ 12: What are some alternatives to garage storage if my trailer doesn’t fit?
Alternatives include covered RV storage facilities, outdoor RV storage lots, and renting space on private property. Each option has its own cost and security considerations.
Conclusion: Informed Decisions Lead to Optimal Storage
Ultimately, the decision of whether to store your travel trailer in a garage depends on a careful evaluation of dimensions, maneuverability, and personal preferences. By taking accurate measurements, considering the nuances of garage door types and clearances, and weighing the pros and cons, you can make an informed decision that protects your investment and simplifies your travel preparations. Remember, accurate measurements and realistic expectations are key to a successful and stress-free storage solution.