Summer is the perfect time to get out and explore the many wonders of the United States. For many, camping is the preferred way to explore, as it offers fresh air, natural surroundings, and quality time with family and friends. After the fire dies down and the fun comes to an end, though, it’s important to store your camping gear correctly. That way, when the season rolls around again, everything is in tip-top, usable condition. 

In the following guide, brought to you by NSA Storage, you’ll discover our top camping gear storage hacks so you can store like a pro! If you treasure time spent outdoors and want to make sure your gear is good to go for many summers to come, read on.

Why Does Camping Gear Storage Matter?

Many of us just toss our camping gear in the garage or shed when we get home and forget about it. The problem is, that gear isn’t cheap, and is often made from materials that will corrode, break down, or be ruined if not stored correctly. 

Storing your camping gear the right way, however, will ensure that:

• Everything stays in good condition for many summers to come, and many camping trips.
• You won’t have to spend money replacing your gear every summer.
• Your gear will work when you need it, and not leave you high-and-dry (or wet and cold).
• You and your family can enjoy the camping experience with less stress and fewer disappointments.

When is the Best Time to Clean and Store Your Camping Gear?

Experts agree; the time to clean camping gear is right away when you arrive home from your latest adventure. The reason why is that, even after only a day or three, moisture, mold, and bugs can quickly cause problems and damage. Below are a few hacks to clean your gear so that it stays in good shape while stored:

• Unpack and separate everything the day you arrive back home
• Rinse anything that’s waterproof with fresh, clean water
• Wipe any dirt, gunk, oil, or debris off of all your gear.
• Remove batteries and disconnect parts that need to be disconnected
• Make any needed repairs
• Let everything dry completely before storing them. This might be the most important step!

Top Camping Gear Storage Hacks

Camping gear comes in many shapes, sizes, and types. Below we have helpful hacks to store the most common items correctly.

Tents

• Set up your tent to let it air out and dry
• Wipe down each tent inside and out
• Store tents in a mesh bag rather than the tight, non-breathable bag most come with
• Store in a cool, dark, dry location

Sleeping Bags

• Unroll each bag to air it out
• Spot-clean any stains or dirty spots
• Let bags dry thoroughly
• Roll up loosely, not tightly
• Store in a loose mesh bag 

Sleeping Pads / Air Mattresses

• Unroll to let dry and wipe down
• Deflate completely
• Like sleeping bags, roll up loosely, not tightly
• Store in a loose mesh bag or plastic bin

Coolers

• Leave open to air out and dry
• Wipe down well to remove oil, food, grease, etc.
• Leave a small box of baking soda inside to absorb odors (Be sure to open the box!)

Propane Stoves

• Detach the propane tank for safety
• Clean thoroughly and let dry
• Store in a cool, dry place

Electronics

• Remove all batteries
• Wipe down
• Store all electronics together in a plastic bin or box

Metal Camping Tools (Hatchets, saws, etc.)

• Wipe down and clean every tool
• Store everything together in a plastic bin or box
• Label the bin or box to find everything quickly next time
• Use protective covers on sharp objects like hatchets, knives, saws, etc. That way, when you grab something, you won’t cut yourself.

Clear, Plastic Storage Containers are a Great Choice to Store Camping Gear 

Depending on how much you camp and how much gear you own, keeping track of everything can be tricky. One solution is to use clear, plastic storage bins. Below are the best reasons to use them, including:

• You can easily see what gear is inside each bin
• They will protect your gear from moisture, bugs, critters, etc.
• Plastic bins stack, which can save you a lot of valuable storage space

If the camping items in a bin are prone to moisture damage, place a silicon gel moisture absorber inside each one. These are the small packages you find in, for example, a new pair of shoes.

Long-Term Storage Hacks for Camping Gear

Some families have one camping trip per season and then store their stuff  until next year. If that’s you, the long-term storage hacks below will help keep everything in tip-top shape.

• Never store your gear in the attic. The extreme heat can damage or destroy many items.
• If your basement isn’t dry, don’t store your gear there, either. The humidity can cause damaging mold and mildew (and create nasty odors).
• Cover everything with a sheet or tarp to keep dust and debris from accumulating.
• Store sleeping bags, pads, and furniture elevated on a shelf or hook. (You don’t want it on the floor.)
• If you rent a storage unit, choose a climate controlled storage unit for the best protection. These units prevent extreme temps and keep humidity to a minimum.

Even if you use your camping gear often, the hacks above will help you keep everything in good condition between trips. Remember, the better you store your gear, the longer it will help you enjoy your next camping adventure.

Store Your Camping Gear with NSA Storage

If you love camping you know that having the right gear makes it more enjoyable and fun. The hacks provided today will help you keep that fun going with less stress and fewer problems.

If you’re storing a lot of camping gear, NSA Storage can help. We offer safe, secure self storage units across this great country, with month-to-month leases that don’t require a long-term contract.

If you need one, you can reserve a storage unit online and it will be ready when you arrive at your nearby NSA Storage location. Until then, get out there and enjoy yourself this summer at your favorite camping spot!