Hiring a moving company to store your recreational vehicle (RV) is convenient yet expensive.

There are cheaper options available to prepare your vehicle for long-term storage first.

Review the following tips on how to ensure the safest and least damaging storage possible.

Keep Out Moisture

Keep your RV stored in a dry, clean place. A damp room is likely to support mold and mildew growth, which could spread to your vehicle. Water from leaks could damage the exterior or interior. Consider leaving the vents or windows open to reduce moisture buildup.

Check the Battery

Before storage, check that the battery is turned off to prevent drainage. After a few months of idleness, you don’t want a dead battery. Freezing is a common problem during wintertime storage. Storing a battery at full charge makes it less likely to freeze.

Check the Tires

Before storage is a good time to check the tires for damages. Make replacements as soon as possible. It’s possible for tires to blow out, even when they’re not in use. One cause is the overloading of your RV, which places excessive weight on tires that remain idle for long periods of time.

Clean the Waste Tanks

Flush out the waste tanks if you’re storing for a few weeks or months. Add a half full tank of water with some bleach. Clean and disinfect the tank, along with the pipes, to prevent the hardening of stains and the growth of bacteria.

Find a Local Storage Space

When you need extra space storage, skip the typical self storage unit. Find a local business that allows regular property owners to rent out their storage spaces to other people within your neighborhood. With this type of business, you’ll find rental spaces that are 50% less than the costs of those offered by self storage units. In the end, you’ll save money and have a space closer to your home and more convenient to you.

Fill the Fuel Tank

Keep the fuel tank half full. When the storage term is over, you need the RV to be ready for use at any time.

Lock the RV

Lock the RV. If an intruder breaks into your storage unit, you need to protect the vehicle from being broken into, as well. Consider adding a king pin lock to prevent your trailer or camper from being stolen. Some people will use a wheel lock.

Check Your Insurance Coverage

Make sure that you have adequate coverage from your RV insurance company. You can obtain coverage from a self storage company, but you’ll only receive the most basic coverage. This business will not cover your most valuable losses of your personal belongings.

Apart from your garage, there are other places to store your RV. Anyone who needs extra space storage should consider the alternative options. One option is to find local storage units that are provided by nearby home and business owners. You may find a good number of affordable choices available in your area.