What You Need to Do Before Storing Your RV for Six Months

Six months in storage is considered long-term for an RV and brings serious risks if you skip the proper preparation. The Australian climate can be particularly harsh on stored vehicles.

Extended sun exposure leads to UV damage on paintwork and interior surfaces. Heavy rain and humidity cause mould and rust issues. If you're storing through winter in southern states, freezing temperatures can crack water pipes and tanks if they haven't been properly drained.

Pests love idle vehicles and will quickly make themselves at home, chewing through wiring and nesting in cushions. Stale air and forgotten food create persistent odours that are incredibly difficult to remove later.

This guide covers everything you need to know about preparing your RV for long-term storage in Australia. You'll learn how to clean your vehicle properly, protect water and engine systems, shield exterior surfaces from harsh weather, choose the right storage location, and set up regular maintenance checks.

Follow these steps and you'll minimise damage risks, protect your investment, and ensure your RV is ready to hit the road again when you are.

Start with a deep clean inside and out

Begin by washing the exterior thoroughly with soap and water to remove dirt and bird droppings. These contaminants can break down protective finishes and lead to permanent staining or corrosion, particularly under Australia's intense sun.

Clear the roof of all leaves, branches, and debris to prevent tannin stains and reduce moisture pooling. This simple step helps avoid leaks and mould growth during our humid periods.

Inside, vacuum and wipe down all surfaces including floors, countertops, and upholstery. Crumbs and dust attract pests and create unpleasant odours that become much harder to eliminate later.

Empty your refrigerator completely and clean it thoroughly. This prevents mould growth and persistent smells, which are common problems during long storage periods in warm or humid conditions.

Prepare and winterise the plumbing

Drain every drop of water from the pipes, holding tanks, and water heater. Any water left inside can freeze during southern Australian winters, causing pipes and tanks to crack and require costly repairs.

Open all taps and valves, then use your RV's water pump to force out any remaining water before turning it off. If your unit has a low-point drain, use it to ensure complete drainage.

Leave the taps open after draining so pressure doesn't build up during temperature changes. This protects your entire plumbing system and prevents expensive damage when you're ready to hit the road again.

Protect the engine and electrics

Change the oil before long-term storage to prevent old, contaminated oil from corroding engine components. Fresh oil helps maintain vital seals and surfaces throughout the storage period.

Add a fuel stabiliser to the tank and run the engine briefly. This preserves fuel quality for up to six months and prevents varnish and gum from forming in the fuel system, which is especially important given Australia's summer heat.

Disconnect the battery to avoid unwanted discharge and potential sulphation while idle. Store the battery in a cool, dry place and consider periodic charging to maintain its lifespan.

These steps help safeguard your RV's engine and electrical systems, reducing the risk of costly repairs when storage ends.

Guard tyres and exterior from the elements

Fitting tyre covers is essential when storing your RV in Australia's harsh conditions. Our intense UV rays cause rubber to crack and fade much faster than in other climates, particularly during those scorching summer months.

Quality tyre covers protect against sun damage, extreme weather, and airborne debris that can puncture or degrade the rubber. This simple step can add years to your tyre life while your RV sits unused.

Your exterior needs similar protection from Australia's punishing weather conditions. A proper RV cover shields paintwork from UV damage and prevents fading that's so common here.

Rain and humidity are equally damaging, promoting rust and corrosion on metal surfaces. During the wet season, moisture can also lead to leaks around seals and joints if water pools on unprotected surfaces.

If you're storing through winter in Victoria, Tasmania, or the NSW alpine regions, a cover also prevents snow and frost from accumulating on your roof and causing structural stress.

These protective measures help maintain your RV's resale value and prevent expensive weather damage that's all too common in our extreme climate. Sourcing quality covers from a trusted RV parts supplier in Australia ensures you get products designed to withstand these challenging conditions.

Choose an appropriate storage location

Finding the right storage spot can make or break your RV's condition during those long months away. You want overhead protection above all else.

A carport, large shed, or purpose-built covered facility will shield your RV from Australia's harsh UV rays and our unpredictable weather patterns. This simple step prevents paint fade, stops water damage, and protects seals from deteriorating.

If you can't access fully enclosed storage, don't panic. A well-built awning or portable shelter still offers valuable protection from the elements.

Avoid open-air storage if possible. Six months under the Australian sun will fade your paintwork and crack rubber seals faster than you'd expect. Heavy downpours during our wet seasons can also cause water ingress through unprotected roof areas.

The extra cost of covered storage pays for itself by maintaining your RV's value and preventing expensive repairs later.

Schedule periodic check-ins during storage

Don't just store your RV and forget about it for six months. Regular visits are absolutely essential for spotting problems before they turn into expensive nightmares.

Water damage is your biggest enemy during Australian storage periods. After heavy rain or storms, check for any signs of leaks around windows, doors, and roof seals. Catching water entry early prevents mould growth, rust damage, and the costly interior repairs that follow.

Pests are equally problematic and work quickly once they move in. Look for droppings, chewed materials, or unusual odours that signal unwanted guests have made themselves comfortable. Quick action here saves you from replacing damaged wiring or upholstery later.

Make each visit count by doing a proper walk-around inspection. Check the roof for debris or damage, examine all seals and entry points, and pop inside to sniff around for any changes in smell or obvious signs of problems.

These regular check-ins help maintain your RV's condition and protect its value, even during extended storage periods.

Six-month storage checklist to prevent damage

When you're storing your RV for six months in Australia, following a proper checklist is absolutely critical for preventing costly damage. Start with that thorough exterior wash, paying special attention to the roof and clearing away any debris that could trap moisture and cause stains.

Give the interior a complete clean by vacuuming all surfaces and wiping down hard areas. Empty that fridge completely, then give it a proper clean to stop mould and stubborn odours from developing during storage, particularly in our humid conditions.

Next up is the plumbing system. You need to drain every drop of water from pipes, holding tanks, and the water heater. This step is crucial for preventing cracks and leaks from temperature changes, especially if you're in the colder southern regions.

Change your engine oil before storage begins. Old oil can corrode engine components during those idle months. Add fuel stabiliser to the tank and run the engine briefly so the additive circulates through the system properly.

For extra protection, disconnect the battery and store it somewhere cool and dry. Give it a charge every now and then if needed.

Protect those tyres with proper covers that shield them from UV damage and general weathering. Australia's harsh sunlight will destroy uncovered tyres faster than you'd expect.

Install a quality RV cover to protect paintwork and seals from sun, rain, humidity, and frost. Choose covered storage like a dedicated facility, carport, or shed to reduce exposure to our extreme weather.

Finally, inspect your RV regularly throughout the storage period. Look for water leaks, pest activity, or any developing problems. These steps will keep your RV in excellent condition and ready for trouble-free adventures when storage ends.