How to Revitalize Your RV or Camper for Summer Travel

The first thing you’ll want to do is give the outside of your RV a careful, top-to-bottom check. Focus on common trouble spots like the roof, window seals, door frames and exterior seams (anywhere moisture could have crept in or materials might have cracked). If the RV is stored outdoors or in a cold climate, pay extra attention to water lines, valves and holding tanks, which can be vulnerable to freezing or pressure damage. The undercarriage is another critical area to inspect. Look for rust, scrapes and signs of wear from road debris.

Many minor issues, like cracked caulking or worn seals, can be handled with a fresh layer of RV-safe sealant. But if anything looks serious or out of the ordinary, it’s smart to get a professional’s eyes on it before your trip begins.

Tires are one of the most important safety components on your RV or camper, and they can take a beating over time, even when the vehicle isn’t moving. Long periods in storage, especially through cold snaps or extreme heat, can cause deflation or dry rot. Before your first trip (and ideally before every travel day), check each tire for cracks, bulges and worn tread. Then, use a tire pressure gauge to confirm that all tires — spare included — are inflated to the recommended PSI for your specific make and model. Proper inflation not only prevents blowouts but also helps extend tire life and improve fuel efficiency. If you’re unsure of the specs, refer to the owner’s manual or the sticker inside the driver’s side door.

Next, go through your RV’s essential fluids one by one: engine oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid and coolant. All should be at the proper levels and free of discoloration or odd smells that could signal contamination. Don’t forget the windshield washer fluid, and if you’re using a non-maintenance-free battery, check its water levels too. If anything is running low, top it off with the right fluid type — your manual will spell out exactly what’s needed. And if a fluid level drops again after topping off, that may indicate a leak worth investigating before you hit the road. You can learn more about checking the levels of fluids here.

A healthy battery is essential for powering your RV’s engine and onboard electrical systems. After months in storage, the battery could be weak or fully discharged. Use a voltmeter to measure the voltage. Anything below 12.4 volts means you’ll need to recharge, which may take a day or two. If the battery won’t hold a charge or is over a few years old, replacing it before your trip is the safer bet. A reliable power source can make or break your journey, so give this step the attention it deserves.

Rough roads, vibrations and long months in storage can loosen connections in both the electrical and propane systems, so it’s important to check these carefully before your next adventure. Start with the electrical system: look for damaged wires, corroded terminals or blown fuses and breakers. Then, switch appliances to electric mode and test everything — from the AC to the outlets and interior/exterior lights — to confirm power is flowing as it should.

For propane, safety is the top priority. If it’s been more than six months since your last professional inspection, consider scheduling a Timed Pressure Drop Test with a certified RV mechanic. If your system has already been tested recently, you can check for leaks yourself by applying a soapy water solution to propane lines and connections. If there’s any bubbling, it means you have a leak. Light the stove burners briefly to purge air from the lines and verify that your propane appliances are running smoothly.

Your RV’s water system needs more than a quick rinse after winter storage, especially if you use antifreeze for winterization. You’ll depend on this system for drinking, cooking and cleaning, so it’s definitely worth the effort to flush and sanitize it thoroughly.

Start by draining the water heater and opening all faucets. Run clean water through the system until it flows clear, and make sure antifreeze is disposed of according to local regulations if it’s not biodegradable. Watch for any leaks as you flush the system.

Once flushed, sanitize the water tank with a diluted bleach solution (about 1/4 cup of bleach per 15 gallons of water). Let the solution sit for 12 to 24 hours, then drain and refill with fresh water, flushing until the smell of bleach is gone. To be extra prepared, bring spare water filters with you in case you need them on the road.

Once you’ve checked off the above items, the last thing you’ll want to do before heading off on your trip is to clean your RV or camper's interior thoroughly. Ideally, you did a deep clean before storing it for the winter, but if not, follow this guide to disinfect the interior. If you did a deep clean, simply remove any items you may have used for winter storage (such as moisture absorbers) and vacuum all surfaces, including floors, counters and upholstery. Check all drawers and cupboards for any signs of pests, and clean out the refrigerator and pantry.

Once everything’s clean and road-ready, it’s time to make your RV or camper feel like home. Decorating a small space doesn’t have to mean sacrificing function — think in terms of compact, dual-purpose items that add warmth without adding clutter. Use peel-and-stick wallpaper for a quick style boost, or hang lightweight, damage-free wall art with command strips. Storage ottomans, collapsible bins and magnetic spice racks are all great ways to add personality while maximizing space.

Before heading to the store, take inventory of what you already own. Check your garage, attic, closets or self-storage unit for decor, storage containers and small furnishings that might fit your RV’s layout. You might be surprised by what you’ve already tucked away: throw blankets, LED string lights, framed photos and unused baskets can all be repurposed to create a cozy, personalized interior without spending a dime. Thoughtful touches make a big difference, especially when every inch counts.

When the season winds down and it’s time to park your RV or camper until the next travel season, proper storage can make all the difference in preserving its condition for the long haul. Leaving it in a driveway or on the street may seem convenient, but it can expose your vehicle to the elements, pests and even local restrictions or fines.

A better option? A dedicated storage facility. Many self-storage locations, like SmartStop, offer outdoor parking spots that are perfect for RVs, with both covered and uncovered options available. Covered storage offers added protection from sun, rain and snow, which can extend the life of your exterior paint, roof seals and tires. Uncovered storage is often more affordable and still provides a secure, designated space away from traffic or overhanging trees.

Before parking for the off-season, give your RV a final clean, check fluid levels and disconnect the battery if needed. Then rest easy knowing it’s stored in a place designed to keep it safe and ready for next year’s adventures.