Tips For Off-Season Storage Of Recreational Vehicles

Store It, Don’t Ignore It

It’s easy to be in denial about the end of summer. No one wants to say goodbye to long, warm days and relaxing vacations with family and friends. Maybe that’s why you’ve told yourself you don’t have to deal with your travel trailer just yet. Maybe you’re even holding out for one more weekend on the road.

While that’s understandable, waiting too long can cost you. To make sure your travel trailer is in good shape next summer, you’ve got to take care of it now – before the colder months have a chance to do their worst.

To help you prep your travel trailer for the winter, we talked with our personal auto underwriting team, and they shared their top tips for safe, smart storage.

1. Give your travel trailer a deep clean.

Before you store your travel trailer, give it a thorough cleaning. Clear out any debris, wash the exterior and check for signs of rust or damage. Catching issues early can save you time and money down the road.

Don’t forget the inside, especially the kitchen. Leftover snacks, crumbs or even unopened drinks can attract pests looking for a place to stay this winter. Clearing everything out now helps keep unwanted guests away.

 2. Check your tires and prevent flat spots.

When your travel trailer sits in one place for too long, the tires can develop flat spots. To help prevent that, check for wear and make sure they’re properly inflated before storage.

If possible, move the travel trailer occasionally or set it on blocks to take pressure off the tires. You can also use tire covers to protect them from damage during the off-season.

 3. Protect your travel trailer from the weather.

A garage, storage unit or pole barn is the ideal place to store your travel trailer. These protect against harsh weather like hail, snow and ice, and may also reduce the risk of theft or vandalism.

If that’s not an option, don’t worry. Carports, canopies or a quality trailer cover can still do the job. Just make sure your travel trailer is on level ground, securely parked and clear of any low-hanging branches or debris.

Continue reading at Auto-Owners Insurance here.