RV Winter Storage Checklist: How to Protect Your Camper

Start with the manuals for your exact RV

Winterization procedures vary by RV, plumbing layout, water heater, refrigerator, washer, dishwasher, ice maker, and other equipment. Use this checklist to organize the job, but follow the instructions for your RV and every installed appliance. If temperatures may reach 32°F (0°C) or below, complete the required winterization before the freeze arrives.

Protect the plumbing and water-using appliances

Frozen water can damage lines, valves, pumps, tanks, water heaters, and appliances. Turn off the water heater and allow it to cool before draining anything. Empty and service the fresh, gray, and black systems as directed, drain low points, and use the winterization method specified by the manufacturer.

• Account for every hot and cold faucet, toilet, outside shower, spray port, filter housing, and low-point drain
• Follow the separate instructions for water heaters, tankless heaters, ice makers, refrigerators, dishwashers, and washing machines
• Use only non-toxic RV water-system antifreeze when the procedure calls for antifreeze
• Never put automotive antifreeze into the RV fresh-water system
• Record the date, method, supplies used, and any repairs needed before spring

RELATED GUIDERV Maintenance Record Checklist →

Clean the interior and remove anything that attracts pests

Remove all food, trash, paper products that may hold odors, and anything that could freeze or leak. Clean the refrigerator and freezer, let them dry, and follow the appliance manual for storage-door position. Vacuum cabinets, drawers, upholstery, and hidden spaces so crumbs do not invite mice or insects.

• Remove medicines, toiletries, canned drinks, cleaning liquids, and other temperature-sensitive items
• Wash and dry linens before placing them in sealed storage
• Check likely entry points without blocking required appliance or safety ventilation
• Leave the RV clean enough that new droppings, leaks, or stains will be obvious during an inspection

Put pop-ups and soft materials away completely dry

For a pop-up camper, tent ends, canvas, vinyl, awnings, and weather seals must be clean and fully dry before the camper is closed. Trapped moisture can create staining, odors, mildew, and material damage. Repair small tears and seal problems before storage rather than allowing winter weather to enlarge them.

Inspect the roof, exterior, and cover

Wash the exterior and inspect the roof, seams, windows, doors, vents, lights, and sealant for damage. Use only compatible cleaners and sealants approved for the RV’s materials. If you use a cover, choose one designed for the RV and follow both the RV and cover manufacturers’ directions so the cover is secure, ventilated, and unable to rub against sharp edges.

• Retract and dry awnings before storage
• Remove leaves and debris that can hold moisture against the roof
• Confirm gutters and drainage paths are clear
• Do not substitute a loose plastic tarp that can trap moisture or chafe the finish
• Plan how snow or ice accumulation will be handled safely in your climate

RELATED GUIDEHow Long Should You Keep RV Maintenance Records? →

Prepare batteries, propane, tires, and running gear

Disconnect or maintain batteries according to the battery and RV manuals; different battery chemistries require different storage care. Shut down propane and electrical systems as directed. Inflate tires to the RV or tire manufacturer’s storage recommendation, park on a firm surface, use wheel chocks, and protect tires from prolonged sunlight when stored outdoors.

• Never work around batteries or propane without the required ventilation and safety precautions
• Do not rely on stabilizer jacks as substitutes for approved lifting or support equipment
• Inspect tire condition, age, and pressure before the first spring trip
• For a motorhome, follow the chassis manufacturer’s instructions for fuel, fluids, engine, and generator storage

Choose indoor or outdoor storage

Covered or indoor storage offers the strongest protection from sun, rain, hail, falling debris, and snow, so it may be worth the cost for a newer RV or severe climate. Outdoor storage can still work well when local rules allow it, the site drains properly, the RV is prepared correctly, and someone can inspect it during the winter.

• Choose a secure, reasonably level site away from low spots and overhanging hazards
• Confirm access, insurance requirements, and storage-facility rules
• Photograph the RV’s condition and note mileage, tire pressure, battery status, and valuables removed
• Check the RV after major storms and periodically for cover movement, moisture, pests, tire changes, or leaks

Make spring easier before you lock the door

Create a short list of everything that must be reversed in spring: reinstalling or reconnecting batteries, flushing and sanitizing the water system, restoring valves, reinstalling filters and drain plugs, testing safety detectors, checking tires and brakes, and inspecting for leaks. Keeping the winterization record, receipts, photographs, and spring tasks together prevents important steps from being forgotten.

RV Command Center Pro can keep the winterization service entry, expenses, photographs, receipts, documents, and next-due reminder together with the rest of the RV’s history.