4 Tips for Storing Your Camping Gear for the Winter
Depending on the time of year, weather conditions and temperatures, you’ll want to use a specific type of tent, sleeping bag and attire. While this does mean storing more camping gear, a few tips and tricks and the right kind of storage can save you time and money as you transition between each set of camping equipment.
1. Store Gear In A Cool, Dry Place
Make sure all equipment is entirely dry before storing. Even the tiniest amount of moisture can turn your gear and other equipment mildewy while in storage. Store your camping accessories in a location safe from extreme temperature fluctuations and moisture. It’s best to pick somewhere that’s cool, dry and away from direct sunlight, such as a garage or basement.
If you keep your gear in a rental storage facility, consider protecting it within something airtight. Leaving certain smells on your stored items may attract determined pests or cause a permanent smell that you can’t get out later.
2. Clean, Empty Items & Repair Items
Remove all debris and possible food scents from your gear before storing by washing sleeping bags, jackets, blankets, etc. Most of these types of items, even the thickest ones, can be laundered and thoroughly washed. Be sure to follow manufacturers' guidelines.
Wash and dry all camping accessories, such as dishes, utensils, food containers, etc. Make sure to empty, wash and dry bottles and bins, and properly clean and store your camping stove.
Pro Tip: whether it’s liquid fuel or propane, store your stove in a plastic bag and tie the bag shut.
Also check your tent and sleeping bag for any repairs that may need mending. There’s nothing worse than unpacking for the first camping trip of the season and realizing there’s a hole in your tent.
3. Take Inventory
Take inventory before you store your equipment, so you know exactly what’s in each container and the location of each box or bag. A detailed and precise list can save you time and even money when it comes time to pull out your gear again.
Pro tip: You can even use an app with a QR code to identify exactly what is in each container with words or pictures and tags to locate it easily among other stored items.
Store your gear in a fashion that allows you to pull certain needed items out if there’s a chance you might need them. For example, if you think you may need a mid-season coat or extra sleeping bag then store those items separate, so you do not have to rummage through boxes and mess up your whole system.
4. Use a Multi-Purpose Storage Solution
Ideally, store as much camping gear as you can in a sturdy container such as the Renlicon Out-In-About Box™. This container is designed to be easy to travel with, yet safe and sturdy enough to meet storage needs year-round. It can even be used during camping season as a portable kitchen, first aid station, or whatever you may need onsite during the times it’s not used to store unused winter gear.
The Renlicon Out-In-About Box™ provides six and half cubic feet of storage for off season camping gear. When the camping season rolls back around you simply unpack your stored items, and you’ll have a customizable, sturdy box with easy to grip handles that will take your camping organization up a notch. Proper storage ensures that your investment can be used time and time again as the seasons change.
We are proud to provide quality camping equipment for adventurers at all stages. No matter the scope of your travels, time of year, or location we take the time to ensure that every item helps make your outdoor adventure memorable.
