Why Winter Is the Best Time to Store Your RV in Long Beach — and How to Do It Right

While Southern California winters are mild compared to the rest of the country, this season is actually one of the best times to store your RV. Travel slows down, campgrounds are quieter, and it’s the perfect opportunity to protect your vehicle from wear and tear while preparing for spring adventures.

At Don Temple Storage, we help Long Beach RV owners store their vehicles safely year-round. Winter storage isn’t just about convenience. It’s about extending your RV’s lifespan, reducing maintenance costs, and protecting a major investment.

Here’s why winter makes sense and how to do it properly.

Why Winter Storage Makes Sense in Coastal Long Beach

Even without snow, winter conditions still impact vehicles. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), coastal regions experience higher humidity levels during winter months, which can accelerate corrosion and moisture buildup in vehicles left

unused.

This combination of moisture and inactivity creates the perfect environment for mold, rust, and mechanical deterioration.

Leaving your RV parked at home exposes it to salt air, fluctuating temperatures, and constant sun exposure. Over time, this leads to cracked seals, faded paint, and interior moisture damage. Storing your RV in a secure facility protects it from these environmental factors while freeing up valuable driveway space.

Key Benefits of Storing Your RV in Winter

Winter storage offers several practical advantages for RV owners. One of the biggest is moisture control. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) confirms that excess moisture in enclosed spaces can lead to mold growth, which damages fabrics, flooring, and cabinetry while creating unhealthy air conditions inside vehicles.

Another benefit is mechanical preservation. When an RV sits idle for months, batteries drain, seals dry out, and fluids settle. Winter storage gives you time to disconnect batteries, stabilize fuel, and inspect hoses so you’re not dealing with costly surprises in spring.

Finally, winter is a slower season for storage demand. That means better availability and easier access to premium spaces before peak travel months arrive.

How to Store Your RV the Right Way

Proper storage requires more than simply parking and locking the door. Preparing your RV ensures it stays protected throughout the season.

Start with a thorough exterior wash to remove dirt and salt residue. While cleaning, inspect roof seams, windows, and seals for small cracks that could become leaks. Addressing these now prevents moisture intrusion during storage.
Next, drain all water systems. This includes freshwater tanks, gray tanks, and black tanks. Even mild temperature drops can cause water expansion, leading to cracked pipes or fittings.
Inside the RV, remove all food and wipe down surfaces. This discourages pests and prevents odors. Leave cabinet doors slightly open to promote airflow.
For mechanical care, disconnect batteries or use a trickle charger, check fluid levels, and add fuel stabilizer if storing long-term. These small steps protect engine components and electrical systems.

Choose the Right Storage Facility

Where you store your RV matters just as much as how you prepare it. At Don Temple Storage, our secure RV storage units are designed specifically for long-term vehicle protection. We offer wide drive lanes for easy maneuvering, gated access, and well-lit grounds so you always feel confident about your RV’s safety.

Storing at a professional facility also eliminates common homeowner headaches such as HOA restrictions, vandalism concerns, and limited driveway space.

Through our full range of storage services, we help customers choose the best option based on vehicle size, budget, and protection needs.

Helpful Tips During Storage

While your RV is stored, a few occasional check-ins go a long way.

Visiting once a month allows you to:

Check tire pressure
Look for moisture inside
Inspect for pests
Ensure covers and vents remain secure

By keeping an eye on your RV during storage, you prevent small issues from becoming expensive repairs later. These quick visits offer peace of mind and keep your vehicle in top condition.

Winter Storage Protects Your Investment

Your RV represents freedom, adventure, and a significant financial commitment.

Storing it properly during winter:

Preserves resale value
Reduces repair costs
Protects interior finishes
Keeps it road-ready for spring

Instead of spending the first weeks of travel season fixing problems, you’ll be ready to hit the road immediately.

Why RV Owners Choose Don Temple Storage

At Don Temple Storage, we specialize in secure vehicle storage for Long Beach residents. Our facility offers reliable security, flexible storage options, and a team that understands the unique needs of RV owners. We don’t just store your vehicle. We help you protect it.