Putting Your RV Away for the Season? Don’t Forget These Simple Steps Before Pulling Through Our Gate!
Putting Your RV Away for the Season? Don’t Forget These Simple Steps Before Pulling Through Our Gate!
a word from Melanie
October 2nd, 2026
As the RV season winds down, it’s time to start thinking about putting your RV away for the winter. A little preparation now can make a big difference when you’re ready to hit the road again next spring.
Start With a Good Cleaning
Before closing the door on another camping season, give the interior a thorough cleaning. Vacuum floors, cushions, storage areas, and other spaces to remove crumbs, dirt, and debris that could attract unwanted visitors while your RV is parked. Some of the local companies that provide winterization will also offer portions of this cleaning service for a fee. Then, consider a few simple pest-deterrent tricks that are commonly shared among RV and camping enthusiasts.
Place dryer sheets throughout the RV—inside cabinets, drawers, closets, and other enclosed areas. Many RV owners use them as a simple way to discourage mice and other unwanted visitors.
Another old-school tip is strongly scented bar soap. Try placing a few flakes in bowls on the counter, under the toe kick, in storage compartments and other areas where pests might be tempted to settle in.A product we’ve also heard mentioned by the camping community is Fresh Cab. Some RV owners place it under the hood, in storage compartments, or hang it from cabinet knobs. It’s available locally in small quantities—I’ve seen it at Ace Hardware and Bomgaars—or online in bulk.
And as an added bonus, you may appreciate the fresh scent from those dryer sheets, soap, or Fresh Cab when you open things up again in the spring!Of course, these are simply tips passed along by fellow campers, not guarantees against pests. Sometimes, despite your best efforts, those little stowaways have other plans.
What If the Rodents Get There First?
One thing to remember is that rodents don’t always wait until your RV is parked for the season. Sometimes they ride home with you from the campground and find their way into your RV before you ever have a chance to put out a deterrent. Once inside, they can cause some surprisingly expensive damage, including chewing through wiring.
That’s where renter’s insurance can provide an important layer of protection. While prevention is always the first line of defense, it’s worth reviewing your coverage before storing your RV to understand what protection may be available if an unexpected pest-related incident occurs during the off-season. Check your policy for the specific terms, conditions, and exclusions that apply to your situation.
Don’t Forget Your Battery
Your RV’s battery deserves some attention before storage, too. Make sure the battery is fully charged before putting your RV away. The official KOA website suggests you disconnect that battery or install a battery disconnect switch. The right battery tender can help maintain the charge of the stored battery throughout the off-season, so it’s ready when you are.
Thinking About Electrical Access?
If you prefer to keep your RV plugged in during storage, electrical access is currently available with our indoor storage units, with additional units coming in the spring.We’ve also heard your requests for outdoor electrical access. We’re looking into options for providing that service in the future, so stay tuned!
A Little Preparation Goes a Long Way
Putting your RV away for the season doesn’t have to be complicated. After winterization fo the plumbing, a good cleaning, a few pest-deterrent precautions, and some attention to your battery can help you start next season on the right foot. And while you can take steps to discourage unwanted guests, remember that sometimes they make themselves at home before you even realize they’ve arrived. A little prevention—and knowing what protection your insurance provides—can give you added peace of mind.
Take care of the little things now, and when spring rolls around, you’ll be one step closer to hitching up and heading out for your next adventure.
Store it smart, maintain it well, and we’ll see you down the road!
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