Tips for Keeping Your RV Pest-Free

For those who travel sporadically in RVs, where do you keep the vehicle while not in use? Many store it in their driveways or at a storage facility. But during these periods of storage, mice, squirrels and other pests can make their way inside the RV and cause a surprising amount of damage.

Pests may climb inside your RV for shelter from the rain or for warmth on cooler days. Once inside, they can eat your food, destroy your bedding and even cause engine damage (which may or may not be covered by your RV insurance, depending on your policy). You’d be wise to take action if you notice droppings on the floor or in the kitchen cabinets, holes chewed in fabrics or food packaging, pinecones or nuts hidden around the vehicle or nesting materials stuffed into nooks and crannies.

So, what can you do to prevent the critters from entering your RV?

Food storage: Pests are attracted to the smell of food, so make sure it’s packed away into airtight containers. Rodents can easily chew through regular packaging, so it’s best to transfer food into plastic or glass canisters. This includes ketchup, sugar and other condiment packets as well.
Plug holes: Pests can squeeze through very small openings to access your RV. Inspect your vehicle for possible entry points, especially around where the water lines enter the RV and the firewall around the engine compartment. Seal openings with spray foam insulation
Set traps: If the problem persists, you can set out mouse traps baited with cheese or peanut butter. Just remember where you put them so you don’t hurt yourself. And check them daily so you can dispose as necessary.
Inspect the RV: Before gearing up for a big trip, take a look around your RV. Clean up any droppings or nesting materials brought in by pests. Check the gaps you’ve sealed because rodents can eventually chew through the foam and they may need to be resealed. Inspect the engine and air filters for nesting materials or other debris; if these items are sucked into the engine, it could cause significant problems.