5 Long-Term Boat and RV Storage Organizational Tips You Need to Know

As summer begins to wind down and fall is on the horizon, now is the time to start thinking about how best to organize your RV or boat for long-term storage. How can you make sure that when the day comes to hit the road or water again, everything is in its place and easily accessible?

With a few organizational tricks and prep work, you can experience hassle-free storage and a joyful return to your well-organized vehicle. Here are 5 easy-to-implement strategies to keep your stored RV or boat tidy and streamlined.

1. Prepare the inside of your vehicle for storage

The first thing you should do to keep your RV or boat organized during long-term storage is to declutter and thoroughly clean beforehand. Keep the interior of your vehicle neat and tidy by:

• Wiping down all interior surfaces.

• Removing your personal items.

• Discarding your non-perishables to avoid pests and unnecessary odors.

• Defrosting your freezer and leaving the freezer and refrigerator doors open.

• Opening your cabinet doors.

• Closing all blinds and curtains to protect the upholstery from UV rays.

• Creating an inventory list so you know what you already have and what you will need upon your return.

• Closing or covering interior vents to avoid dirt, dust, and insects from entering.

Thoroughly cleaning and decluttering the interior of your RV or boat helps to create a more organized and pleasant space for when you return.

2. Prepare the outside of your vehicle for storage

Keep in mind that both the interior and exterior should be cleaned in order to keep your vehicle in top condition. When preparing the exterior, be sure to do the following:

• Wash the exterior of your RV or boat to remove dirt, dust, and grime that may have accumulated during your last adventure.

• Consider applying a protective wax coating to shield the vehicle's paint from potential damage while in storage.

• Look for and fill any cracks, openings, or holes around the exterior.

• Place wheel chucks to prevent unwanted movement or rolling.

Taking time to thoroughly clean the exterior of your RV or boat can help to maintain its condition and extend its use.

3. Make sure your battery is stored correctly

Properly preparing your vehicle’s battery for long-term storage can maintain its health and ensure it's ready for use when you retrieve it. In fact, neglecting your battery during storage can lead to damage and may require expensive replacements. Follow these steps to preserve your battery and prolong its life:

• Make sure your battery is fully charged and then remove it from the vehicle to store separately.

• Once removed, clean the terminals with a wire brush, water, and baking soda to eliminate corrosion.

• Store your battery in a cool, dry place.

Taking care of your battery now will save you time, money, and potential headaches in the future.

4. Utilize storage containers and categorize items

Keeping your RV or boat organized during storage provides convenience and reduces stress so you’re ready to hit the road or water again. Using storage containers and creating zones with your items helps to maximize space and make organization a breeze. Here's how:

• Invest in high-quality storage containers that are durable, waterproof, and stackable.

• Before packing your belongings into storage containers, categorize them based on their function and use. For example, kitchen essentials, bedding, towels, tools, etc.

• Label each container.

• Take advantage of vertical space by installing shelving units or using hanging organizers to make the most of every available inch.

• Designate specific areas or zones within your RV or boat for different types of items.

• Keep frequently used or highly needed items within reach so they can be easily accessed when your vehicle’s in storage.

Using storage containers and creating zones for different items can help you stay organized, maximize space, and provide easy access to your belongings while your RV or boat is in storage.

5. Maintain regular maintenance

While your vehicle’s in storage, don’t forget to apply regular maintenance. Neglecting maintenance tasks during storage can lead to potential issues and costly repairs down the line. Here are a few steps to help you keep your vehicle in top condition:

• Complete periodic checkups to inspect your vehicle for signs of damage, such as cracks, leaks or pests.

• Check the oil, coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid levels and top them if necessary.

• Add fuel stabilizer to keep your fuel in top shape.

• Regularly start your engine and generator to prevent them from seizing up and maintain solid working order.

• Inspect your tires and check pressure or rotate them if necessary.

• Monitor the battery's charge level during each maintenance check.

• If storing your vehicle over the winter months and there’s a chance of possible freezing, be sure to drain your fluids and add antifreeze.

Regular maintenance is a crucial aspect of storing your RV or boat. Taking these steps will not only extend the life of your vehicle but also provide you with peace of mind during storage and beyond.

Need Help?

A little effort before storage can go a long way in creating a stress-free and fun travel experience later on. At Oakley Executive RV & Boat Storage, we offer covered spaces in various sizes to meet your needs and ensure your vehicle stays safe and protected until your next adventure.

Learn more about our available spaces and pricing today.