What's up, Mavericks?
When the days get shorter and the nights start biting back, it’s time to start thinking about something no RVer wants to do—but has to: putting your RV into hibernation. Whether you’ve got a motorhome, a travel trailer, or a 5th wheel, winter storage is a critical part of ownership that can make or break your rig’s long-term health.
Done right, you’ll emerge in the spring ready to roll. Done wrong… well, let’s just say that warped frames, moldy cushions, and cracked plumbing lines aren’t the kind of “surprises” you want waiting.
So grab a mug of something warm ☕ and let’s get into it. Here's your complete guide to winter RV storage—with a few tricks to keep your rig protected and your brain uncluttered until spring.
❄️ Why Winter Storage Matters
RVing isn’t cheap. Whether you own a Class A motorhome or a lightweight travel trailer, your rig is an investment. And winter, especially in northern climates, is brutal on anything that sits still.
Let’s break down just some of the enemies your RV faces during the cold season:
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Frame warping from uneven weight distribution
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Jack pad sinkage in soft ground or snow
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Freezing temps cracking your plumbing lines
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Battery drain or irreversible sulfation
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Rodents, mold, mildew… oh my
Good winter storage means fewer costly repairs and more mental peace. It’s not just about where you park it—but how you put it to bed.
🛠️ 1. Level First, Store Second (Seriously)
Before you even think about draining tanks or checking seals, you need to make sure your RV is properly leveled. Not just “close enough”—actually level.
Why?
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Prevents frame twist over long-term storage
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Avoids warped cabinetry and misaligned doors
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Reduces stress on slide-out seals
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Ensures even weight distribution on tires and jacks
Here’s where GrabPad comes in clutch. These permanent jack pads are made to sit on concrete, gravel, dirt, or even snow without sinking or cracking. Their Terrain Flex Design means your jacks stay supported and your rig stays level—no matter where you’re parked.
🟧 “Set it and forget it” leveling that holds up through the freeze? That’s the GrabPad guarantee.
🔧 2. Drain, Flush, and Winterize Plumbing
Now that you’re leveled and stable, it’s time to winterize your water systems.
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Drain all tanks (fresh, gray, black)
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Flush your water heater and bypass it if you’re using antifreeze
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Add RV antifreeze to your plumbing lines
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Don’t forget outside showers and low-point drains
If you’re unsure of the steps, there are tons of tutorials online, but make sure you’re using non-toxic pink RV antifreeze, not the green stuff for engines.
🔋 3. Protect Your Batteries from the Chill
Cold weather can kill your batteries permanently if you’re not careful.
Your options:
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Remove and store batteries in a warm, dry place (best)
OR
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Keep them charged with a solar panel or smart charger (if storing in place)
For motorhomes, don’t forget your chassis battery, too. A dead battery in spring is more than annoying—it’s an expense you can avoid with a 10-minute chore.
🐭 4. Defend Against Critters and Moisture
Winter is prime time for rodents to start turning your RV into an AirBnB.
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Plug every possible hole, vent, and entry point
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Use dryer sheets, Irish Spring, or peppermint oil as repellents
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Set moisture absorbers like DampRid inside the rig
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Remove all food, even dry pantry goods
And hey, while you’re at it, crack open a vent slightly (if weather allows) to prevent stale air and mold buildup.
✅ 5. Bonus: Create a Storage Checklist (or Steal Ours)
Here's a quick winter RV storage checklist to copy/paste or print:
Exterior
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Wash and wax the rig
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Inspect roof, seams, and windows for leaks
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Cover vents and exhaust ports
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Level RV using GrabPads
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Inflate tires to proper PSI
Interior
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Remove all food and trash
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Open cabinets and fridge doors
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Drain and winterize plumbing
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Set moisture absorbers
Power
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Disconnect and store batteries (or trickle charge)
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Flip off all breakers
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Remove propane tanks (optional for longer-term storage)
🌄 Spring Will Come Sooner Than You Think
RV hibernation may feel like a buzzkill after a summer of exploring the open road. But taking just a couple hours now to prep your rig can save you days of repairs—and hundreds in fixes—when the thaw finally comes.
So do it right: level it once with GrabPad, drain those tanks, protect your power, and kick back until the sun starts hanging out a little longer in the sky.
Come spring, you’ll be first out of the driveway while everyone else is still defrosting their regrets.
Ready to Store Smarter?
GrabPad Universal Permanent Jack Pads are your winter storage sidekick. No sinking. No stress. No fuss. Get yours today! And, as always - stay wild, Mavericks!