Don't Get Caught Unprepared: 4 Must-Know RV Hurricane Prep Strategies

When hurricane season arrives, RV owners must take special precautions to ensure their vehicles—and themselves—are safe. An RV, by nature, is more vulnerable to high winds, heavy rain, and flying debris than a stationary home, making it crucial to take proactive steps in preparation for a storm. Below are four must-know strategies to help you protect your RV during a hurricane.

1. Secure and Anchor Your RV

One of the most critical steps in hurricane preparation is to secure and anchor your RV. If possible, relocate your RV to a safer location, away from areas prone to flooding or falling debris. A sturdy, elevated area away from trees is ideal. However, if moving your RV isn’t an option, anchoring it securely to the ground is essential.

How to Secure and Anchor:

• Use RV-specific anchors or heavy-duty chains: These can be driven into the ground or attached to a solid foundation, providing extra stability.

• Park next to a sturdy structure: If you can't anchor directly to the ground, parking close to a solid building and using strong straps to secure your RV can help reduce movement during high winds.

• Lower the RV: Reducing the height of your RV by retracting the leveling jacks and lowering the suspension can also help minimize wind resistance.

2. Add Extra Stabilization

Even with anchoring, adding extra stabilization to your RV is a smart precaution. Stabilization helps keep the RV from swaying, shifting, or rolling during the strong winds typical of a hurricane.

How to Add Stabilization:

• Deploy all stabilizer jacks: If your RV is equipped with stabilizer jacks, deploy them fully. Ensure they are on solid ground or use wooden blocks to provide a firm foundation.

• Use wheel chocks: Place wheel chocks on both sides of each tire to prevent your RV from rolling. Consider using heavy-duty chocks designed to withstand strong winds.

• Add extra support under slide-outs: If your RV has slide-outs, retract them if possible. If not, place additional support underneath them to reduce stress on the RV’s structure.

3. Protect Windows and Vents

Windows and vents are particularly vulnerable during a hurricane, and broken glass or water intrusion can lead to extensive damage. Protecting these areas is crucial to safeguarding the interior of your RV.

How to Protect Windows and Vents:

• Use heavy-duty tarps: Heavy-duty tarps can provide some level of protection. Secure them tightly around the windows and vents.

• Seal all vents and openings: Close and seal all roof vents, skylights, and any other openings to prevent water from getting inside. Use waterproof tape or sealant for added protection.

4. Seal and Weatherproof Your RV

Before the hurricane arrives, it’s vital to ensure your RV is thoroughly sealed and weatherproofed. Water intrusion can cause significant damage, leading to mold, mildew, and structural issues.

How to Seal and Weatherproof:

• Inspect seals and seams: Check all doors, windows, and roof seams for any cracks or gaps. Use RV sealant or weatherproof tape to reinforce these areas.

• Check roof condition: Ensure the roof is in good condition, with no loose or damaged materials that could become vulnerable during the storm. Pay special attention to areas around antennas, air conditioners, and roof edges.

• Apply additional weatherproofing: Consider applying a waterproof coating to the exterior of your RV, particularly on the roof and around windows. This extra layer can help repel water and prevent leaks.

Final Thoughts

By following these four must-know RV hurricane prep strategies—securing and anchoring your RV, adding extra stabilization, protecting windows and vents, and sealing and weatherproofing—you can significantly reduce the risk of damage during a hurricane. Proper preparation not only safeguards your RV but also ensures your safety and peace of mind as the storm approaches.

Remember, the key to effective hurricane preparation is early action. Don’t wait until the last minute—start implementing these strategies now to ensure your RV is ready to weather the storm. We provide a hurricane prep package to help ensure your RV is ready when a storm in on the horizon.