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When you invest in a camping trailer, the adventure doesn’t stop when you’re not on the road. Storing your trailer properly is an essential part of ownership that ensures it stays in great condition for years to come. For many folks, that means parking your camping trailer next to your house or in your driveway.
However, deciding where and how to store your camping trailer requires careful thought. From size constraints to security, there are several factors to consider. In this article, I’ll walk you through five key considerations to help you make the best decision for your camping trailer storage needs and highlight a unique trailer that makes storing your trailer a quick and simple task.Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
- Camping Trailer Storage Tips: Trailer Dimensions and Storage Space Requirements
- Camping Trailer Storage Tips: Storage Location Options
- Camping Trailer Storage Tips: Protection and Maintenance During Storage
- Camping Trailer Storage Tips: Access and Convenience
- Camping Trailer Storage Tips: Security Concerns
- Level Up Your Camping Trailer Storage Game
Camping Trailer Storage Tips: Trailer Dimensions and Storage Space Requirements
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Before you even start thinking about where to store your trailer, it’s crucial to understand its dimensions. Knowing the exact length, width, and height of your camping trailer is vital to finding a suitable storage option.
Many first-time trailer owners overlook accessories that add bulk, such as rooftop air conditioners, spare tire mounts, or solar panels. These features can make your trailer taller or wider than expected, limiting your storage options. Always measure your trailer, including all attachments, to avoid unexpected surprises when trying to park it in a storage space.
Another important factor is the space you have at home. Can your driveway or garage accommodate your camping trailer? If not, you’ll need to look into external storage solutions, which brings us to the next consideration…
Camping Trailer Storage Tips: Storage Location Options
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Where you store your camping trailer can have a big impact on convenience and cost. If you have enough space at home, storing your trailer on your property (perhaps in your backyard, as shown above) is often the easiest and cheapest option. It eliminates storage fees and allows you quick access when it’s time to hit the road. However, not all homeowners have this luxury. Some neighborhoods have HOA restrictions or zoning laws that prohibit trailer storage in driveways or yards.
That’s why Space Trailers is such an interesting option…
This compact trailer stores on end and the tongue folds down, allowing you to store it inside your garage. Not only does this eliminate the issues of finding and paying for offsite storage, but it also negates the worry about leaving your trailer in your driveway and possibly violating HOA rules.
And don’t think that having a Space Trailer in your garage means you’ll lose a ton of valuable space for other gear or your vehicles, either. When on its rear tailgate, a Space Trailer can be placed against a wall or in a corner of your garage out of the way. You can easily position it to allow you to walk around your garage or park your vehicle as you normally would. Be sure to check out my Space Trailers Review to get even more details about this innovative trailer. You can also learn more by watching my Space Trailers video below:
But if you have a larger trailer, outdoor storage facilities are often the most affordable option if you need to rent a space. These lots are usually fenced and gated, but they expose your trailer to the elements. If you choose this option, investing in a high-quality trailer cover is a must to protect against weather damage.
For the ultimate protection, consider indoor storage. These units shield your trailer from sun, rain, snow, and pests. While more expensive, indoor storage helps preserve your trailer’s condition and resale value. Be aware, though, that not all storage facilities can accommodate large camping trailers, so call ahead to confirm dimensions.
Camping Trailer Storage Tips: Protection and Maintenance During Storage
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No matter where you store your camping trailer, taking steps to protect and maintain it during downtime is essential. Proper preparation not only prolongs your trailer’s lifespan but also saves you time and money on repairs later.
Start by giving your trailer a thorough cleaning, both inside and out, before storage. Remove perishable items and clean out storage compartments to prevent mold or pest infestations. Draining water tanks and lines is especially important if your trailer will be stored in freezing temperatures.
Next, protect your tires. Prolonged storage can cause tires to develop flat spots or degrade due to sun exposure. Use tire covers to shield them from UV rays and consider rotating the tires every few months to distribute weight evenly.
Battery maintenance is another critical step. Disconnect the battery to prevent it from draining, or use a trickle charger to maintain its charge during long-term storage.
Of course, many of these issues aren’t a problem if you have a small, storable trailer like a Space Trailer. The trailer itself is essentially a large tub, so you can easily sweep it out before it’s time to store it. There are no water tanks or lines and no batteries to worry about, either!
And since you can easily store a trailer like this inside, issues about sun or weather damage to tires aren’t a worry, either. In other words, this trailer is as simple as it comes–both in terms of how to store it and the maintenance it needs.
Camping Trailer Storage Tips: Access and Convenience
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Accessing your trailer easily should be a top priority when choosing a storage location. If you plan to use your trailer frequently, opt for a storage facility close to home or on the way to your favorite camping spots. The more convenient the location, the less hassle you’ll face when planning spontaneous trips.
Look for storage facilities with flexible hours and easy entry points that accommodate large vehicles. Narrow gates or tight parking spaces can make retrieving your trailer a frustrating ordeal, so if storing your trailer at home isn’t an option, look for facilities with wide lanes and pull-through parking spots to make the process easier on yourself.
If you store your trailer at home, ensure it’s parked in a way that allows for quick loading and unloading. Keeping it blocked in by other vehicles or equipment can turn pre-trip packing into a time-consuming task!
Camping Trailer Storage Tips: Security Concerns
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Your camping trailer is a valuable asset, and protecting it from theft or vandalism should be a top priority. Different storage options come with varying levels of security, so it’s essential to evaluate what’s available.
For home storage, invest in security measures such as hitch locks (shown above), wheel locks, and surveillance cameras. These deterrents can help protect your trailer and give you peace of mind. Of course, with a Space Trailer stored in a corner of your garage, these worries are negated.
If you’re considering a commercial storage facility, look for locations with strong security features, such as gated access, on-site personnel, and surveillance systems. Some facilities even offer individual unit alarms for added protection.
Another option is GPS tracking. Installing a GPS tracker like Ride Dog on your trailer can help recover it quickly if it’s ever stolen. While this might seem like an extra expense, it’s a small price to pay for safeguarding your investment.
Level Up Your Camping Trailer Storage Game
Storing your camping trailer may not be the most exciting part of trailer ownership, but it’s certainly one of the most important. By carefully considering factors like dimensions, storage location, protection, access, and security, you’ll ensure your trailer stays in top shape and ready for your next adventure.
No matter where or how you choose to store your trailer, proper planning and preparation make all the difference. Taking these steps now will save you headaches later and help you get the most out of your camping trailer storage solution.
Remember, your trailer isn’t just a vehicle—it’s a gateway to countless adventures. Protect it, and it will serve you well for years to come!
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