Forum Discussion

Mobyman's avatar
Mobyman
Explorer
Jul 21, 2014

Cheap long term storage?

Hello All,
As our children grow up and summers get busier it's getting harder and harder to carve out time for a good RV vacation. So we're trying to decide whether to sell our RV, or to store for occasional use for the next several years.

We live in Chicago and would like to find some campground or storage facility within 100 miles that's very inexpensive (i.e. $25/mo). Is that even possible? Obviously, Elkhart, IN comes to mind and a possible location.

Does anyone have any experience or suggestions on this issue?
TIA

3 Replies

  • I live in the Chicago area and have never seen RV storage (outdoors mostly) in this area for less than $45/month. The $45/month facility was in an urban area with a "gate" that apparently hasn't worked in years. So, we currently store ours at an outdoor storage facility for $65/month, but we use it regularly. Then we store it indoors in the winter for the equivalent of $60/month at the Winnebago county fairgrounds. You might check craigslist for people who have pole barn space for rent, but that will still be more than $25/month, and you'll have to check regularly for mice. Good luck.
  • Cheap storage doesn't usually come with good security. You may find a place to park it but don't expect to find much when you go back to it. I've seen several storage places with units sinking into the ground from neglect. Just sell it and buy another when you need it. It will never be worth more money than it is right now.

    B.O.
  • RVs self destruct if neglected. It needs the roof checked every few months, appliances tested/cleaned, and many other things. If the rig is going to sit indefinitely, I'd consider selling it outright, or perhaps downsizing.

About RV Tips & Tricks

Looking for advice before your next adventure? Look no further.25,178 PostsLatest Activity: Dec 07, 2025