Closing Your RV for the Season: A Guide for Canadian and U.S. RV Owners

Avatar photo Saba Raza
Nov 4, 2024     4 min read
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Key Points:

  • Properly winterizing and storing your RV ensures it stays in good condition and avoids damage during the off-season.

  • The Routica Explorer I enhances your RV closure process with reliable connectivity and security alerts.

As the Thanksgiving long weekend approaches, RV owners across North America are preparing to say goodbye to the open road and close their RVs for the season. While the official end of camping season in Canada comes with Thanksgiving in mid-October, many RV owners in the U.S. wait until their Thanksgiving in November.

However, no matter where you’re located, prepping your RV for the winter months is essential to ensure it’s in good condition when you’re ready to hit the road again next year.

Why Seasonal RV Closure Matters

Winterizing your RV not only protects it from harsh winter conditions but also helps extend its lifespan and maintain its value. Freezing temperatures, moisture, and inactivity can cause damage if your RV isn’t properly prepped. This guide will walk you through how to effectively close your RV for the season and offer tips specific to Canadian and U.S. RV owners.

Closing Your RV for Winter

To properly winterize your RV, start by draining and winterizing the plumbing system, as frozen pipes can burst and lead to costly repairs, making it essential to drain all water systems and add antifreeze. Next, clean both the interior and exterior, removing perishable items, clearing out cupboards, and giving the RV a thorough wash to eliminate dirt, debris, and insects.

Inspect and seal the exterior, paying special attention to seals around windows and doors to prevent drafts and water leaks, and consider applying a weather-resistant RV cover for added protection. Make sure you check the roof for any damage that could result in leaks during the winter months.

For battery maintenance, disconnect the battery, fully charge it, and store it in a cool, dry place. Also, ensure proper tire care by inflating tires to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure and, if possible, elevate the RV to reduce tire wear.

Canadian RV Owners

Typically, Thanksgiving long weekend in mid-October is the last hurrah of the camping season in Canada. With colder temperatures arriving earlier, it’s crucial to winterize your RV sooner to avoid frost damage.

  • Weather Considerations: In many parts of Canada, the weather can turn quickly, so it’s important to start winterizing immediately after your final trip.

  • Storage Solutions: Due to the harsher winters, many Canadians opt for indoor storage options to better protect their RVs from the elements.

U.S. RV Owners – Navigating Regional Climates

In the U.S., Thanksgiving in November is the traditional end of the RV season in many northern states. However, if you live in warmer climates like Florida, Texas, Arizona, or California, your RVing season might extend much longer.

  • Regional Considerations: In these warmer regions, you may not need to winterize as thoroughly, but it’s still important to protect your RV from moisture, pests, and the occasional cold snap.

  • Flexible Timelines: If you’re in the southern U.S., you may have more flexibility with your RV closure, but don’t forget about basic maintenance, even if your RV isn’t being used year-round.

Storing vs. Traveling Year-Round

  • Snowbirds and Full-Time RVers: For those who travel year-round or head south for the winter, closing your RV for the season might not be necessary, but regular maintenance remains critical to avoid wear and tear.

  • Storage Tips for Non-Full-Timers: If you’re not using your RV during the colder months, indoor storage, or at least covered parking, is ideal.

Prepare to Close Your RV for the Season- How Routica Explorer I can Help?

As you prepare to close your RV for the season, the Routica Explorer I can help make the process smoother and more efficient, especially when you’re storing your RV over the winter months.

Here’s how it can assist:

  • Security and Alerts: The Routica Explorer I’s Sentry feature adds an extra layer of security to your RV while it’s in storage. If your RV moves without authorization, you’ll receive alerts, keeping you informed of any suspicious activity.

  • Reliable Internet Access: For those who like to keep a vigilant eye on their RV while it’s stored, or who need to manage online systems like cameras or sensors, the Routica Explorer I is perfectly equipped. Featuring the innovative WAN Automatic Network Transition, this router excels at maintaining a seamless connection by intelligently transitioning between cellular, Wi-Fi, or Ethernet connections.

This flexibility ensures that it always selects the best available network. Whether you’re monitoring your RV’s status remotely or ensuring security through connected systems, the Routica Explorer I provides reliable connectivity, thereby offering peace of mind throughout the winter months.

Summing Up

By taking the time to properly close and store your RV for the season, you’re ensuring it’s ready to go when the warmer months return. The tips mentioned above can help you protect your investment and enjoy stress-free travels in the future.

With the Routica Explorer I, you’ll have the added benefit of staying connected and securing your RV, ensuring peace of mind throughout the winter months.

Visit our online store or check out our offering on Amazon to prepare your RV for storage with reliable connectivity and security.

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