One major factor that many new trailer owners tend to forget or overlook is storage. Obviously, you want to use your camper as much as possible and visit new places with it — but what happens in those cold winter months when all you want to do is stay inside by the fire? Let’s discuss your main storage options and how to make sure your trailer can take advantage of the benefits.
If you’re looking for a trailer that can go camping in this weather, see this resource instead.
How are trailers stored in the off-season?
Many neighborhoods and their HOAs have regulations that prevent residents from leaving things like trailers in yards or their driveways. Regardless, those storage options are bad for the condition and longevity of your trailer because of the exposure to freezing temperatures and potentially hazardous weather conditions. There are two other common ways of storing campers when not in use — using a 3rd-party facility or storage in your own garage/indoor storage area:
- Renting a storage unit – many storage facilities offer units that are specifically designed for storing recreational vehicles, including camping trailers. These units are typically climate-controlled and provide enclosed storage for your trailer.
- Keeping the trailer in a garage – if you have a garage that is large enough to accommodate your camping trailer, you can also store it here during the off-season. This will protect the trailer from the elements as well, and provides an added layer of security.
Learn more about the entire winterization process for your camper here.
How big are standard garages?
Whether you can store your trailer in the garage will, of course, depend on the size of your garage. The size of a standard garage varies depending on the location, age, and style of the home. In the United States, the average size of a two-car garage is approximately 20 feet wide by 20 feet long, or 400 square feet. When it comes to height, most garage doors are about 7 feet tall, or 84 inches — although 8-foot garage doors also aren’t uncommon.
Benefits of a trailer that fits in your garage
There are many reasons for using your garage to store a camper or trailer in the winter. Some of the factors that we find the most convincing include:
- Protection from the elements – storing your camping trailer in a garage will protect it from rain, snow, and other extreme weather conditions, which can damage the trailer and its contents.
- Increased security – having the trailer in your own garage provides an added layer of security, making it less likely to be vandalized, stolen, or otherwise damaged in a public storage facility.
- Convenience – it’s also always ready to go when you are, and you don’t have to worry about loading and unloading it every time you want to use it. Is there suddenly a sunny weekend that you decide would be a good opportunity for a quick trip? Simply open your garage, hitch the trailer, and head on your way.
- Reduced wear and tear – this will also reduce the amount of wear and tear it experiences, which helps to extend its lifespan.
- Maintaining resale value – being stored in a garage also helps it maintain its resale value, as it will be in better condition (and more accessible to check for damage) if/when you decide to sell it.
- Cheaper – third-party storage facilities typically charge a monthly or yearly fee for storing your trailer, which can quickly add up over time.
Choosing the right size camping trailer for your garage
When choosing a camping trailer to store in your garage, it’s important to first and foremost consider the size and weight of the trailer, as well as the dimensions of your garage. To ensure that your garage is large enough to accommodate the trailer, you should measure the length, width, and height of the space to determine the maximum size of the trailer that will fit. You should also keep the weight of the trailer in mind and check that your garage floor and supporting structures can handle the load. Finally, you should scan for any additional height restrictions in your garage, such as low-hanging objects or door clearance so the trailer comfortably fits in and out without hitting any obstacles that might cause damage.
Preparing your garage and camper for storage
If you’re planning on storing your camper in the garage, there are some initial steps to make sure that it remains in good condition and you don’t run into any problems:
- Clear out any clutter and make space for the trailer
- Ensure that the garage door is in good working condition
- Check for any potential hazards, such as low-hanging objects or uneven flooring
- Use a level to confirm that the trailer is properly aligned
- Put wheel chocks in place to prevent the trailer from rolling
- Use straps or tie-downs to secure the trailer to the floor or walls of the garage
Once put away, we also recommend periodically checking in on it to keep it ready for use when the spring comes around. This includes:
- Regularly check the tires and verify they are properly inflated
- Keep the trailer clean and free of debris
- Occasionally inspect the trailer for any damage and make necessary repairs
TAXA’s functional design
At TAXA, we pride ourselves not only on each habitat’s functional design and durability, but also their “garageability,” or being able to fit in most standard garages. Even our overlanding trailers, which are made with an additional 6-8 inches of ground clearance, can still comfortably fit in an 8ft garage. That way, you can take advantage of all the benefits we’ve discussed today, without making compromises in other areas. All of our trailers provide what you need to have an incredible outdoor experience, but nothing more — so you can focus on your journey or destination. Explore our habitats today!
