A Deep Dive into RV Storage Costs

Storage


Brennen Durka
February 5th, 2022


A Closer Look into the Details

If you’re one of the 11.2 million households (and counting) of Americans that own an RV, you likely need a place to store it. When you’re not using an RV, it requires a large storage space to keep it secure and protected.

But from indoor storage to outdoor storage, there are a lot of elements to take into account when thinking about RV storage cost.

Are you wondering about RV storage costs for your vehicle? Below we explain the different RV storage options and what you can expect the cost to look like.

Location

Monthly storage rates will differ depending on the state. In areas that have a higher population or more demand, units will cost higher. So if you live in an area with a lot of people or with limited parking, RV storage will likely cost more.

Also, consider if you're near an RV vacation site. RV vacations are up to 62% less expensive than other vacation types and they are growing in popularity. Parking your RV near a vacation spot will raise the storage price.

Size

RVs can vary in size. Short pop-up trailers can be as small as 8 feet, while large motor homes can exceed 40 feet. Based on the size of the RV, storage space will cost differently.

A smaller RV storage space will usually cost much less than one for a larger vehicle. And finding storage for RVs that are 40 feet long is also more difficult to do.

Type of Storage

Storing your RV indoors will keep it the most secure, so it will come at a higher cost. Indoor units have more amenities and features which will then make the price increase.

Indoor storage vs outdoor storage can also be more expensive when you have a larger RV. It’s easier to find storage indoors for smaller RVs and it will therefore be less expensive.

Amenities

Indoor storage units will often come with the option of adding certain amenities. These amenities will add cost to storing your vehicle.

Amenities could include things like temperature control. Temperature control may seem like a luxury for some, but it’s a requirement for others. Some RV storage spaces even offer battery charging and valet parking.

If you’re shopping for RV storage in a higher price range, cutting down on amenities will help reduce the cost.

Indoor vs. Outdoor Storage Types

The way you store your RV plays a role in how long it will last and what the condition of your vehicle will be.

Storing your vehicle indoors now may be more expensive, but will end up saving you thousands in the long run. Alternatively, outdoor storage may help you with easier access to the vehicle.

Here are some additional things to consider as you choose the best option for you.

  • Indoor RV Storage
There are a few types of indoor RV storage you can think about.

First, there is communal storage. This gives you protection from the outdoor elements. Your vehicle will be secure and won’t face UV rays and harsh weather.

That being said, other RV owners will be using the area frequently. There could be damage from passers-by or dirt. It’s unlikely, but someone could accidentally dent or hit your vehicle.

Single unit storage is indoors but keeps your RV away from other units. It’s the most complete form of protection available since you’re the only one with access to the unit.

Roll-up door units for campers are usually about 20 feet wide and 45 feet long, so you have plenty of space to fit your vehicle.

However, you will have to be willing to pay a higher price tag for this highest layer of security.

  • Outdoor Storage
Outdoor RV storage will be the least expensive option of RV storage for you. Outdoor storage is typically large dirty or paved fields that give you space to park where you’d like.

You have easy access to your vehicle, but you will also have no security. Your vehicle will be exposed to the element, so it’s a good idea to put an RV cover or tarp over the vehicle.

Outdoor storage is an easy option if you have a large RV. Parking spaces will fit pretty much any size RV, and will often have a paved option for your to drive up your vehicle.

Driveway storage is also available at many RV storage facilities. It’s usually close to a building and is based on the extra available space.

  • Covered Storage
If you don’t want to pay for indoor storage but don’t want your vehicle to brave the elements, then covered storage is the right solution for you. It bridges the gap between indoor and outdoor storage, and the cost is usually right in the middle.

One covered RV storage option is a carport. Carports protect like a roof, and you may be able to find a public lot with the protection of a carport. Keep in mind that your vehicle will not be fully protected from UV rays, though.

Canopies are another covered storage option. Canopies will have the protection of three walls which will add extra security against harsh elements and UV rays especially. Certain parking spots can also help reduce exposure.

Canopies are the most protective type of outdoor RV storage while usually remaining less expensive than indoor storage. They have added security because of the walls.

Best Way to Store an RV

Regardless of the cost, some ways of securing your RV are better than others. For the safest way to store your RV, we recommend using a climate-controlled indoor storage unit. If that’s not available, you should try covered storage, and lastly, outdoor storage.

If storing your RV outdoors is your only option, we recommend using an RV cover to protect your RV as much as possible from the elements.

Finding Out Your RV Storage Cost

Determining your RV storage cost depends on the type of vehicle you have and your preferences. Think about what you're looking for in storage and which option checks the most boxes. 

To learn more about finding out this cost, we encourage you to reach out to our team. We are here to help!

GreenFill Storage Blog