Is Covered RV Storage Worth It?

‍Learn about the benefits of covered RV storage, potential downsides, and tips for choosing the right storage facility in our guide for fellow RV lovers.

Covered RV storage options are definitely worth considering if you want to protect your rig and enjoy some added convenience and security. Just make sure to do your research and choose a reputable storage facility that meets your needs and budget.

As RV enthusiasts that want to get the best bang for their buck, we're here to help you weigh the pros and cons associated with choosing covered storage.

When Is Covered RV Storage Worth the Cost?

Here's the quick version: we think covered storage space for your RV can definitely be worth the cost if you want to protect your vehicle from the elements and a reputable site is within your budget.

Whether it's extreme heat, cold, rain, snow, or hail, Mother Nature can wreak havoc on your RV's exterior and interior over time if you let her.

By opting for covered storage or even an indoor storage facility, you can shield your travel trailer or RV truck from direct exposure to weather damage and minimize the risk of damage.

Is It OK to Store Your RV Outside?

Naturally, this depends on a lot of factors. But yes, there are plenty of situations and reasons that make it OK to leave your RV outside!

There are two main things to think about as an RV owner:

1. Think about the climate and weather conditions in your area. If you live in a place with extreme temperatures, high or low, high humidity, or frequent storms, you may want to opt for covered storage facilities to protect your RV from damage.
2. Consider the duration of the covered/indoor RV storage period you'd need. If you're only leaving your RV outside for a few days or weeks at a time, it may not be a big deal. However, if you're planning to keep your rig outside for an extended period of time, you may want to take extra precautions to prevent damage and lower your risks.

What Are the Dangers of Storing an RV Outside Uncovered?

Letting your RV rest in the outside world, uncovered, can come with several potential dangers that can compromise the safety and performance of your vehicle over time.

Such dangers include:

• UV damage: When an RV is stored outside, it's exposed to the sun's harsh UV rays, which can cause damage to the exterior and interior over time. UV damage can cause the paint to fade, the rubber seals to dry out and crack, and the upholstery to become discolored or brittle.
• Weather damage: An uncovered RV is also vulnerable to damage from weather events, including rain, snow, hail, and wind. This can cause damage to the rig exterior, including the RV roof, which will lead to leaks.
• Wildlife and bug damage: When left uncovered, RVs can also attract unwanted attention from animals and pests, who may make their way inside and cause damage to the interior of the rig. This can include chewing on wires and upholstery, leaving droppings, and even creating nests.
• Theft/Vandalism: An uncovered RV is more vulnerable to theft and vandalism, especially if it's parked in an unsecured location. Thieves may attempt to steal parts or even the entire RV, while vandals may cause damage for fun or malicious reasons.

Do RV Covers Cause Mold?

The short answer is that it's possible for RV covers to contribute to mold growth, but it largely depends on a few key factors. Covers shouldn't cause mold if they're well-made and used properly.

The only main thing that can cause mold growth is moisture.

When an RV cover is used improperly or is not breathable, it can trap moisture inside and create a humid environment that is ideal for mold and mildew to grow.

This is doubly important if you live in a warm, humid climate.

To keep mold growth at bay, it's important to choose a high-quality RV cover that is made with breathable materials with built-in air vents, allowing for air to flow and moisture to escape.

You should also make sure to properly clean and dry your RV thoroughly before covering it, as any traces of leftover moisture will contribute to mold growth over time.

What Are Some Alternatives to Covered Storage Space?

You can invest in a quality RV cover to protect your recreational vehicle from weather changes or use tire covers to prevent damage from UV rays.

You may also want to consider taking steps to deter theft or vandalism, such as installing a security system or RV parking in a well-lit area.

Here are a couple of our favorite RV storage products that are useful whether you store your vehicle outside, inside, covered, or uncovered.

• UV rays will cause the rubber of your tires to deteriorate over time. This is pretty unavoidable while on the road, but all that time sitting idle or in storage could be taking time off of your tires' useful lifespan. These covers are an inexpensive UV-protection option to keep your tires functional.
• This full RV cover kit includes durable, water-proof covers for the body of your rig as well as a ladder cap cover, storage bag, and four sleeve bags. The quality is impressive for an option under $200.

How Much Does Covered RV Storage Cost?

The cost of RV storage with cover depends on a range of factors, such as location, facility amenities, and the size of your RV.

Where you live matters a bunch, too.

On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from around $50 to $500 per month for dedicated storage.

In some cases, the costs can grow even higher for premium facilities with additional amenities such as climate control, security systems, or on-site maintenance services.

Other factors that can impact the cost of storage include the length of the storage term and any additional services or fees that may be required.

Some facilities may charge a one-time setup fee or require a deposit to secure your space.

It's important to do your research and shop around to find a covered storage facility that fits your needs and budget.

We would only trust a facility with a good reputation among current and former customers, secure access, and adequate space for your RV.

Finally, consider any additional amenities or services that may be offered, such as on-site maintenance or 24-hour security.

Can You Leave Bedding In Your Camper Over Winter?

It may seem harmless, but removing bedding and dirty laundry is an important part of winterizing your RV that people often miss.

If you have traditional bedding made from natural materials like cotton or wool, it can potentially attract moisture and mold over time if left in a damp or humid environment.

Even if you have synthetic bedding materials like polyester or nylon that may be more resistant to moisture and could, dirty bedding isn't good for your skin or overall wellness.

Consider the climate in your area. If you live in a region with extreme temperature changes or high humidity, it may be better to remove your bedding.

In our eyes, there are no downsides to being cautious and removing laundry and bedding, so we just do it as part of the routine.

If you do decide to leave bedding in your camper, make sure to properly clean and dry it before storing it, and consider using a dehumidifier or moisture absorber to prevent any potential damage from moisture buildup.

Do RVs Lose Value Quickly?

Yes, RVs start to drop in value the moment you drive them off the lot, much like any vehicle.

That's why it's all the more important to maintain your RV with regular service and storage.

Some vintage models may increase in value as they become more desirable or rare, but we wouldn't bet on this.

If your beloved RV is well-maintained and stored properly, it can potentially retain its value better over time.

This is why many RV owners like us choose to invest in an RV storage unit or other storage options to keep their RV protected from damage and maintain their resale value.