10 Tips to Store Your Trailer Like a Pro
Your trailer is your little home on wheels, ready for adventure at a moment’s notice. But when you're not hitting the open road, your trailer doesn’t need to take up driveway space like an oversized lawn ornament. Instead, give it its own home away from home.
A self-storage facility is the perfect solution for weekend warriors and seasonal road trippers alike. It offers everything your trailer needs except the microwave and Netflix subscription. In this post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about finding the best, secure storage facility for your trailer and how to prep it for its stay.
Why Self Storage is the Perfect Solution for Your Trailer (And Your Driveway)
Self-storage makes things easy. Easier than trying to fold that double bed up into a kitchen table in the morning anyway. Self-storage frees up space in your driveway and keeps your neighborhood association off your back. Plus, if you're like most trailer owners, you’d rather not spend all winter scraping ice off your rig. Many self-storage facilities offer covered or even indoor spots to keep your road residence out of the elements.
Still not convinced? Here’s why self-storage and trailers go together like marshmallows and campfires:
- Room to Park and Garden: Free up your driveway or that patch of dirt behind the garage and maybe even score a wave from the guy next door.
- Security: Most Storelocal facilities offer gated access, security cameras, and on-site staff, so your trailer stays safer than your backyard.
- Convenience: You won’t have to park your trailer in the next county. With facilities all over the U.S., there’s bound to be a storage unit closer than your last campsite.
- Safety: You get a clean, secure space designed for vehicle storage – not just a spot next to some rusty tractors.
- Weather Protection: Whether you’re in tornado territory or snowpocalypse central, storing your trailer at a facility with covered or indoor options keeps it safe from the elements instead of looking like it’s been on a ten-year road trip.
- Value: Parking your trailer at a storage facility is a cost-effective investment. Most facilities offer sign-on deals and, for a small monthly fee, you get peace of mind knowing your trailer is safe and happy.
Prepping Your Trailer for Storage: 10 Tips
Before you drop your trailer off at your chosen self-storage facility, take a few steps to ensure it doesn’t turn into a mobile raccoon penthouse over the winter. Here’s how to prepare your trailer for storage, without looking like you’re auditioning for a sitcom:
1. Clean It
Wash the exterior to remove dirt, bird droppings and dead bugs that can damage your paint and lead to corrosion. Repaint or patch any scratches and dings. Don’t forget the inside—no one wants to find a mystery sandwich in the fridge next spring. Be sure to leave the fridge open to avoid giving your potato salad that “musty fridge” smell next time out.
2. Cover It
A high-quality cover keeps the weather out, the sun from bleaching your paint, and wandering eyes from admiring your trailer.
3. Drain Water Tanks and Lines
If your trailer has any water tanks, whether for fresh water, gray water, or black water, make sure to drain them completely before storage. Also, be sure to run antifreeze through the lines if you’re storing in freezing conditions.
4. Close Vents and Windows
Double-check that all vents, windows, and skylights are closed tight. Even the smallest crack can let in moisture, bugs, or debris. Some owners even put vent covers in place to keep air flowing while blocking rain or snow.
5. Lubricate Moving Parts
Hit the hinges, jacks, and other moving parts with a little lubrication. This prevents rust and keeps everything in working order when you bring the trailer out of storage.
6. Turn Off Propane
If your trailer has a propane system, make sure all propane tanks are turned off and disconnected if possible. You might even want to remove the tanks entirely and store them separately in a well-ventilated area.
7. Check for Hitchhikers
Chances are, spiders, bugs and rodents have discovered the good thing you’ve got going on. Make sure to evict any squatters and seal up potential entry points. For prevention, toss in some moth balls or cedar chips to discourage furry squatters from setting up shop. Essential oils like peppermint or lemongrass also deter four, six and eight-legged freeloaders.
8. Give Your Tires a Break
Tires are expensive, so give them some TLC. Inflate them to the recommended pressure and, if possible, park on a surface that won’t leave them flat and sad by springtime. Ideally, move your trailer every couple of months to prevent flat spots from forming. If you're storing outdoors, consider using a wheel lock that keeps your trailer in place and deters theft.
9. Disconnect the Battery
If you don’t want to return to a dead battery, disconnect it before you store it. Keep it in a dry, separate place where it won’t corrode. Some owners like to connect a trickle charger to keep their battery at full power while not in use.
10. Turn Off Propane
If your trailer has a propane system, make sure all propane tanks are turned off and disconnected if possible. You might even want to remove the tanks entirely and store them separately in a well-ventilated area.
What to Look for in a Trailer Storage Facility
Now that your trailer’s spruced up and ready for its nap, where should you park it? Not all storage facilities are created equal. Some are like five-star campsites, and others are more like a music festival parking lot–after the festival. Here’s what to look for:
- Space to Maneuver: You don’t want to spend the first hour of your weekend getaway escaping the storage facility. Make sure it has wide driveways so you can navigate in and out without performing a 37-point turn. Bonus if the site has pull-through spaces for easy parking.
- Access Hours: Whether you’re an early bird or a night owl, it’s nice to have access to your trailer whenever you get the itch for an impromptu getaway.
- Climate Control: If you live in an area where winter lasts forever or summers feel like an Easy Bake Oven, indoor, climate-controlled storage might be worth considering. It’ll protect your trailer from extreme temperatures. Your tires and paint will thank you.
- Security: Look for a facility with gated access and security cameras, with on site staff who will keep an eye on your road home.
Final Tips: Don’t Forget These Before You Store
Before you get the keys to your storage unit, here are a few last-minute tips that’ll make your life easier down the road:
- Insurance: Make sure your trailer’s insurance policy covers it while it’s in storage. Many facilities offer their own coverage plans.
- Keep Your Paperwork Up to Date: Registration, insurance, the works. The last thing you want is to be ready for an epic road trip, only to be held up by paperwork.
- Check In Occasionally: It’s a good idea to check on your trailer every so often. Rotate the tires and make sure there are no leaks or surprises waiting for you.
Storelocal for Secure Trailer Storage
Storing your trailer should be easy, safe and affordable. With Storelocal and a bit of prep, you can keep your trailer safe, sound and always ready for your next adventure. Search for a location near you at the top of the page or contact us with questions. Our friendly staff are always happy to help. Now go enjoy that wide-open driveway – maybe even park a car in it.
