Storing Your Camper: California Storage Pricing

The cost of storing a camper or RV varies depending on several factors, including location, type of storage, vehicle size, and additional amenities. In California, prices can range from as low as $113 per month to $646 per month. The average monthly cost to store an RV is about $130, but this can be influenced by factors such as location, amenities, local supply and demand, and the size and type of storage space needed. Outdoor storage is generally the most affordable option, while indoor storage provides the best protection from the elements and break-ins but comes at a higher cost.

Indoor vs. outdoor storage

When it comes to storing your camper, there are a few options to consider: indoor, outdoor, or keeping it at home. Each option has its advantages and disadvantages, and the right choice for you will depend on factors such as cost, protection from the elements, security, accessibility, size, maintenance requirements, storage duration, and insurance coverage. Here is a detailed comparison between indoor and outdoor storage options to help you decide which one suits your needs.

Cost

Indoor storage facilities typically come at a higher cost than outdoor options. The added expense is due to the benefits of protection from the elements and enhanced security. On average, indoor storage is at least twice as expensive as outdoor storage. However, outdoor storage is generally more budget-friendly, making it an attractive option for those looking to save on storage fees.

Protection from the Elements

Indoor storage offers excellent protection from the elements, including sun exposure, rain, hail, snow, and temperature extremes, which can cause paint fading, seal damage, and other issues. On the other hand, outdoor storage exposes your camper to the natural elements, and your vehicle will be more vulnerable to weather-related damage. Some outdoor storage facilities provide canopies or covered spaces, but they offer limited protection.

Security

Indoor storage facilities often have robust security measures, such as gated access, surveillance cameras, and on-site personnel, making your camper less susceptible to theft or vandalism. Security varies at outdoor storage facilities, with some offering limited protection. It is essential to research the security features of the facility you choose if you opt for outdoor storage.

Accessibility

Indoor storage facilities may have limited accessibility, and you might need to schedule access in advance or adhere to facility hours. In contrast, outdoor storage offers more flexibility, and you can typically retrieve your camper at your convenience. Consider how often you plan to use your camper during storage when deciding between indoor and outdoor storage.

Size

Indoor storage facilities can accommodate a wide range of camper sizes, from compact campervans to large Class A motorhomes. On the other hand, outdoor storage options may have size restrictions, limiting your choices if you have an oversized camper. Ensure that the storage facility can comfortably accommodate your camper's size and type.

Maintenance Requirements

Campers stored indoors generally require less maintenance as they are protected from the elements and have enhanced security. With outdoor storage, your camper is exposed to environmental factors, requiring more frequent cleaning and maintenance to prevent issues like mold, mildew, and fading. Consider your willingness and ability to perform regular maintenance when choosing between indoor and outdoor storage.

Storage Duration

Indoor storage is an excellent choice for long-term storage, as it provides maximum protection and security. In contrast, outdoor storage can be suitable for short-term or seasonal storage if you use your camper frequently. Determine how long you intend to store your camper and choose an option that aligns with your storage duration.

Insurance Coverage

Many insurance providers offer discounts for campers stored indoors due to the reduced risk of damage and theft. While insurance premiums for outdoor-stored campers may be slightly higher, they are still relatively affordable. Speak with your insurance provider to understand how your storage choice may affect your coverage and premiums.

Size of the camper

The size of your camper will depend on your needs and the number of people you plan to accommodate. Here are some typical camper sizes:

Micro or Mini Travel Trailers

These are the smallest trailers, often towed by small vehicles like SUVs. They are typically 10-12 feet in length and may include features like a small kitchenette, bunk beds, and other basic amenities.

Small Travel Trailers

Small travel trailers are typically 13-20 feet in length and can be towed by small vehicles like trucks or even some cars. They usually accommodate two to four people and provide essential amenities such as storage space, a sleeping area, and a small kitchenette.

Medium or Mid-Size Travel Trailers

Mid-size trailers are typically 20-30 feet in length and can accommodate four to six people. They offer expanded amenities such as more storage space, larger sleeping areas, a fully equipped kitchen, and a bathroom with shower facilities.

Large Travel Trailers

Large travel trailers are typically over 30 feet in length and are designed for long-term camping and larger families. They often include separate sleeping areas, a spacious living and dining area, a full-sized bathroom, and ample storage space.

Class A RVs

Class A RVs are the biggest motorized RVs on the market, weighing between 13,000 to 30,000 pounds. They offer a lot of space and can include luxurious amenities such as king-size beds, washer and dryers, and mobile garages.

Class C RVs

Class C RVs are a mid-size option, weighing between 10,000 to 13,000 pounds. They usually include sleeping quarters over the cab and another area in the back, a separate bathroom, and sometimes slide-outs.

Class B RVs or Camper Vans

Class B RVs, often called camper vans, are a mid-size option weighing between 4,000 to 9,000 pounds. They can be basic, including just a bed and storage, or have extras like bathrooms, dining areas, and sleeping space for up to six people.

Travel Trailers

Travel trailers offer a wide range of sizes, typically ranging from 10 to 40 feet in length and weighing between 1,100 to 12,000 pounds. They can be towed by small SUVs or large trucks, depending on their size, and are good for campers who want to unhitch and store the camper when not in use.

Pop-up or Folding Trailers

Pop-up trailers are compact and easy to store, typically ranging from 8 to 16 feet in length and weighing between 700 pounds to 4,000 pounds. They are similar to tents, with a living area in the centre and sleeping areas on the sides.

Fifth-Wheel Trailers

Fifth-wheel trailers are the largest trailers that can be towed by a vehicle, weighing between 7,000 to 20,000 pounds. They extend over the bed of the truck and offer spacious living quarters with slide-outs, bathrooms, and even multiple bedrooms.

Truck Campers

Truck campers are designed for off-the-grid travel and can accommodate up to three people. They are a few feet longer than the truck and weigh between 1,000 to 5,000 pounds. They have limited storage and basic amenities, but some models include more features for regular campground stays.

Location

When it comes to finding a place to store your camper in California, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, the location of your storage facility will impact the cost, with large metropolitan areas such as Los Angeles and San Francisco typically charging higher prices due to limited space and a higher cost of living.

For example, the average monthly cost of storing an RV in Los Angeles is $463.64, with prices ranging from $170 to $624 for outdoor, uncovered spaces. In San Francisco, you can expect to pay around $266.54 per month. These prices are significantly higher than the national average of $130 per month for RV storage.

If you're looking for a more affordable option, consider searching for facilities outside of major cities or in more rural areas, where land costs are typically cheaper. You may also want to look into different types of storage. Outdoor, uncovered storage is generally the most affordable option, while indoor, enclosed storage is usually the most expensive.

• Los Angeles:
• Public Storage - Los Angeles - 1702 S San Pedro Street: $560 for a 10' x 30' enclosed unit.
• Extra Space Storage - Santa Monica - 14th St: $140 for a 10' x 20' outdoor, uncovered parking space.
• Extra Space Storage - Torrance - 190th St: $140 for a 10' x 25' outdoor, uncovered parking space.
• Extra Space Storage - Gardena - S Figueroa: $140 for a 10' x 30' outdoor, uncovered parking space.
• Extra Space Storage - El Segundo - El Segundo Blvd: $130 for a 8' x 20' outdoor, uncovered parking space.
• Public Storage - Pasadena - 171 S Arroyo Parkway: $624 for a 10' x 30' enclosed unit.
• Extra Space Storage - Redondo Beach - Inglewood Ave: $140 for a 10' x 20' outdoor, uncovered parking space.
• Public Storage - South Gate - 5005 Firestone Place: $226 for a 10' x 30' outdoor, uncovered parking space.
• CubeSmart Self Storage - Long Beach - 2323 E. South St.: Outdoor, uncovered parking with a length of 30' starting at $130.
• Public Storage - Glendale - 4820 San Fernando Rd: $380 for a 8' x 20' outdoor, uncovered parking space.
• Extra Space Storage - Cerritos - Artesia Blvd: $140 for a 8' x 28' outdoor, uncovered parking space.
• Public Storage - Montebello - 240 E Whittier Blvd: $227 for a 10' x 20' outdoor, uncovered parking space.
• Public Storage - Monterey Park - 1985 Potrero Grande Dr: $246 for a 9' x 20' outdoor, uncovered parking space.
• Public Storage - Pico Rivera - 8340 Washington Blvd: $621 for a 10' x 30' enclosed unit.
• Public Storage - Long Beach - 3207 E South St: $429 for a 9' x 30' outdoor, uncovered parking space.
• Public Storage - Long Beach - 3207 E South St: $476 for a 10' x 20' enclosed unit.
• San Francisco: While specific facility prices are not available, the average cost of RV storage in San Francisco is $266.54 per month.
• Sacramento:
• StorQuest Self Storage: $149 for a 10' x 20' outdoor, uncovered parking space.
• Life Storage: $194 for a 10' x 20' outdoor, uncovered parking space.
• Public Storage: $214 for a 10' x 25' outdoor, uncovered parking space.
• San Diego:
• Public Storage: $217 for a 10' x 25' outdoor, uncovered parking space.
• A-1 Self Storage: $259 for a 10' x 25' outdoor, uncovered parking space.
• Price Self Storage: $279 for a 10' x 25' outdoor, uncovered parking space.

Remember that prices may vary depending on the specific facility, the size of your camper, and the type of storage you choose. It's always a good idea to shop around and compare prices before making a decision.

Amenities

Outdoor uncovered parking spaces are the most common and affordable option for RV storage. These spaces can be found in gravel or paved parking lots and typically range from $30 to $100+ per month. The cost will depend on the size of the RV, with larger Class A motorhomes costing more than smaller Class B or travel trailers.

Covered RV storage is another option that offers protection from the elements such as sun, hail, and snow. Covered storage typically ranges from $70 to $200 per month, with prices varying based on location and demand.

Indoor RV storage is the most expensive option, with rates ranging from $150 to $450+ per month. This type of storage provides the best protection from weather and break-ins, making it a popular choice for high-end RV owners. However, indoor storage may have limited availability and restricted access hours.

Some facilities also offer climate-controlled spaces, insulated and heated spaces, and multi-level indoor facilities, which can influence the cost of storage. Additionally, amenities such as dump stations, wash areas, electricity, and 24-hour access will also contribute to the overall cost of storing an RV or camper in California.

Type of storage

There are several types of storage available for RVs and campers, and the type you choose will depend on your budget, the level of protection you want for your vehicle, and the availability of storage options in your area. Here are some of the most common types of storage:

Outdoor, Uncovered Storage

Outdoor, uncovered storage is the most affordable option, with prices ranging from $30 to $100 per month for an average-sized RV. This type of storage leaves your RV exposed to the elements and security risks, so it's best suited for those who use their RV frequently or live in mild climates.

Outdoor, Covered Storage

Outdoor, covered storage provides some protection from the elements, such as sun, hail, and snow. Covered storage typically ranges from $70 to $200 per month and is a good option for those who want more protection than uncovered storage without the higher cost of indoor storage.

Shared Indoor Storage

Shared indoor storage, also known as communal garage storage, is when your RV is parked inside a large structure such as a warehouse with other vehicles. This option provides protection from the outdoor elements but has limited accessibility and may be more expensive, ranging from $125 to $260 per month.

Private Indoor Storage

Private indoor storage is the most expensive option, with rates ranging from $150 to $450+ per month. This type of storage provides the most protection for your RV and is often chosen by high-end RV owners who want to protect their investments. Private indoor storage also offers the convenience of year-round access, even in bad weather.

Enclosed Storage

Enclosed storage is a large storage unit that acts as a garage for your RV, providing protection from the weather and preventing unauthorised access. Enclosed storage can cost anywhere from $50 to $450+ per month, depending on the size of your RV and the amenities offered.

Frequently asked questions