How to Prepare Your Vehicle for Long-Term Storage in Loreto

Whether you're a snowbird heading back north for the summer, an expat leaving Loreto for a few months, or a boater storing your vessel between seasons, long-term vehicle storage requires a little preparation. The Baja California Sur climate — hot summers, occasional humidity from the Sea of Cortez, and intense UV exposure — can take a toll on vehicles that sit idle for weeks or months at a time.

The good news: a few simple steps before you hand over the keys can make a big difference in how your vehicle comes out the other side.

Here's what we recommend to customers storing vehicles at By The Airport Storage in Loreto.

Before You Store: General Preparation

Regardless of what you're storing — car, truck, RV, boat, or trailer — these steps apply across the board.

Clean It Thoroughly

Dirt, salt residue, and organic material left on a vehicle can cause corrosion and staining over time. Before dropping off your vehicle, give it a thorough wash — including the undercarriage if you've been driving on dirt roads or near the ocean. For boats, rinse the hull and remove any marine growth.

Document the Condition

Take photos of your vehicle from all angles before storage. This gives you a clear record of its condition at drop-off and makes any insurance claims straightforward if needed.

Check Fluid Levels

Top off engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid. For longer storage periods (three months or more), consider an oil change before storing — used oil contains contaminants that can degrade engine components over time.

Fill the Fuel Tank

A full fuel tank prevents moisture from condensing inside and reduces the risk of fuel system corrosion. If you're storing for more than a few months, add a fuel stabilizer to prevent the gasoline from breaking down.

Storing Cars and Trucks

Battery Care

A vehicle battery left sitting for months will slowly discharge and may not recover. Options include:

Disconnect the negative terminal — simple and effective for shorter storage periods

Use a battery tender or trickle charger — keeps the battery at full charge without overcharging; ideal for longer storage

Tire Pressure

Inflate tires to the maximum recommended pressure (found on the tire sidewall, not the door jamb). This helps prevent flat spots from developing while the vehicle sits. For very long storage, consider placing the vehicle on jack stands to take weight off the tires entirely.

Brake Considerations

Don't leave the parking brake engaged for extended periods — the brake pads can fuse to the rotors. Instead, use wheel chocks to keep the vehicle from rolling.

Pest Prevention

Rodents love to nest in warm engine bays and interior spaces. Stuff steel wool into the exhaust pipe and air intake (and remove it before starting the vehicle). Place rodent repellent sachets inside the cabin and under the hood.

Storing Boats

Boat storage in Loreto comes with unique considerations given the proximity to the Sea of Cortez and the region's climate.

Engine Flush and Fogging

If your boat has an outboard or inboard motor, flush the cooling system with fresh water to remove salt and debris. Fog the engine cylinders with fogging oil to prevent corrosion during storage.

Battery Disconnect

Disconnect the boat battery or connect it to a marine battery tender. Marine batteries are expensive — a little maintenance goes a long way.

Cover It

A quality boat cover protects against UV damage, dust, and bird droppings. If you're using a covered storage space at our facility, you'll have an extra layer of protection from the elements.

Drain Water Systems

Drain the bilge, livewells, and any freshwater systems. Standing water breeds mold and attracts insects.

Storing RVs and Trailers

Roof and Seals

Inspect the roof and all seals before storage. Loreto's summer heat can accelerate the degradation of rubber seals around windows, vents, and slide-outs. Apply UV protectant to rubber seals to extend their life.

Propane System

Turn off the propane at the tank. If storing for an extended period, have the system inspected before your next trip.

Slide-Outs

Retract all slide-outs before storage to protect the seals and mechanisms. Apply slide-out lubricant to the seals before retracting.

Refrigerator

Empty, clean, and prop the refrigerator door open slightly to prevent mold and odors from developing.

Tire Covers

RV tires are particularly vulnerable to UV damage. Use tire covers to protect them from the Baja sun during storage.

Covered vs. Uncovered Storage: Which Is Right for You?

At By The Airport Storage, we offer both covered and uncovered storage options. Here's how to decide:

Choose covered storage if:

• You're storing for more than two months
• Your vehicle has a fresh paint job or sensitive exterior finish
• You're storing a boat and want maximum UV protection
• You're storing an RV with rubber roof materials

Uncovered storage works well for:

• Shorter storage periods (one to two months)
• Vehicles with durable finishes or protective coatings
• Trailers and utility vehicles where cosmetic protection is less critical

Monthly Storage Rates at By The Airport Storage

Our rates are straightforward and competitive:

Outside Uncovered (up to 20 ft): $55/month

Outside Uncovered (20–40 ft): $115/month

Outside Covered (up to 20 ft): $115/month

Outside Covered (20–40 ft): $185/month

All prices are subject to +16% IVA. Minimum one-month storage.

Ready to Store Your Vehicle?

By The Airport Storage is located at Carr. al Aeropuerto de Loreto 333 in Loreto — right off the main airport road, making drop-off and pickup easy whether you're arriving by car or flying in.

Call or WhatsApp us to reserve your space:

US: +1 (630) 248-9369

MX: +52 613-114-6907

We're happy to answer questions about which storage option is right for your vehicle and how to best prepare it for your time away.