After an unforgettable overlanding adventure, it’s tempting to toss your gear aside, kick your feet up, and relive the memories of campfires and starlit skies. However, the way you care for and store your camping gear can make a huge difference in its lifespan and performance during future trips.
Be it dirt, sweat, or exposure to extreme weather, your gear goes through a lot out there in the wilderness. Without proper cleaning and storage, those rugged tents, boots, and sleeping bags may not last as long as you'd like.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to store camping gear after your overlanding trip, making sure your equipment is ready for the next adventure.
{Click to View Renlicon’s Overlanding Gear!}
Clean First, Then Store
Before we dive into storage tips, let’s start with the golden rule of how to store camping gear: clean before you store.
If you don’t know how to store camping gear, it might be tempting to pack out and stuff away your gear until the next trip. However, gear care requires a thorough cleaning after each and every excursion.
Whether you’ve camped in a dusty desert, snowy mountains, or muddy forest, your gear has likely picked up dirt, moisture, and maybe even a few scratches. Proper cleaning not only protects your equipment but also prevents mold, mildew, and unpleasant smells from developing.
Don’t forget this golden rule! You will eventually pay for it.
Tents: Air Out, Clean, and Dry
Tents can be a sanctuary in unpredictable outdoor conditions, but they can also trap moisture and grime. Here's how to store camping gear, like tents, the right way:
- Cleaning: Shake out all dirt and debris, then wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth. Use a mild soap solution to scrub off any stubborn mud or stains.
- Drying: Set up your tent in a shaded area or lay it flat to dry completely. Even the slightest bit of moisture can cause mildew to grow.
- Storage: Instead of packing your tent tightly in its stuff sack, store it loosely in a cool, dry place to prevent compression (as it can ruin the insulation over time) and maintain the fabric’s integrity.
Be sure to follow these tips when cleaning and packing away your tent. Of all overlanding and camping items, the tent is one of the most susceptible to mold and normal wear and tear.
Don’t be lazy; follow the steps above to get the most out of your tent.
Sleeping Bags: Let Them Breathe
Sleeping bags are notorious for picking up sweat and dirt, especially after long nights spent in close contact with your body.
Here’s how to store camping gear like sleeping bags for longevity:
-
Cleaning: Machine wash on a gentle cycle with cold water and a mild detergent. Air-dry completely before storage, or use a dryer on low heat with a few clean tennis balls to help fluff the insulation.
Always make sure to check the type of lining your sleeping bag has before washing. Some sleeping bags, like down sleeping bags, aren’t suitable for machine washing.
- Storage: While on the trail, you compress your sleeping bag into a stuff sack. At home, it’s better to store it loosely in a large cotton or mesh bag. Compression can ruin the insulation over time.
-
Climate Control: As is true for many of the items on this list, it’s always better to store your sleeping bag in a climate-controlled environment. Instead of throwing it in the garage to bake in the summer heat, try keeping your sleeping bag inside.
Sleeping Pads: Wash and Deflate
Your sleeping pad keeps you comfortable and insulated from the ground, so it’s important to keep it clean and dry. Here’s how to store camping gear like sleeping pads and mats:
- Cleaning: Wipe down the surface with warm water and a gentle cleaner. Make sure to scrub off any dirt or oils from the pad’s material.
-
Storage: Store the pad unrolled and partially inflated if inflatable. This helps the material maintain its shape and prevents cracks or leaks from forming over time.
Boots: Brush, Scrub, and Dry
Your hiking boots are probably the hardest-working gear on your trips, and they deserve some TLC. Knowing how to store camping gear like boots properly keeps them ready for the next rugged terrain.
- Cleaning: Brush off excess dirt and scrub with a brush and warm water. Avoid using harsh cleaners that can damage leather or synthetic materials.
- Drying: Air-dry completely, away from direct heat sources like radiators or fires, which can cause cracking.
-
Storage: Once clean and dry, store them in a cool, dry place. Stuffing them with newspaper or using a shoe tree can help retain their shape.
Cooking Gear: Scrub and Sanitize
No one likes setting up camp and finding out their cookware is still grimy from the last trip.
When considering how to store camping gear like your kitchen equipment, make sure you clean your pots, pans, and utensils immediately after you return home to ensure they’re ready for the next adventure.
- Cleaning: Wash all cookware with dish soap and warm water in a easy to transport basin. For stubborn grime, use a mixture of baking soda and water to scrub.
- Appropriate Washing Methods: Check the materials of the pots or pans you’re cleaning and make sure you use appropriate washing methods.
For example, letting a cast iron pan soak in water can ruin it. Instead, you’ll need to clean and wash it, dry it with a towel, and apply a little oil to the surface to keep it in working condition.
-
Storage: Store your clean cooking gear in a sealed container or kitchen bag to keep dust and bugs out.
Rain Gear: Refresh the DWR Coating
Rain gear protects you from the elements, but exposure to moisture and dirt can reduce its effectiveness over time. Keeping your rain gear in good condition is essential when considering how to store camping gear.
- Cleaning: Wash rain jackets and pants according to the manufacturer's instructions. Often, you’ll need to renew the Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coating by using a specialty spray after cleaning.
-
Storage: Hang your rain gear in a closet or store it in a breathable garment bag. Avoid cramming it into tight spaces to prevent damage to the waterproofing.
Hydration Bladders: Clean Thoroughly
Hydration bladders need special care to avoid mold or bacterial growth, especially after carrying sugary drinks.
- Cleaning: Use a mixture of baking soda and water or a specialty cleaning tablet to clean the inside. Be sure to rinse thoroughly.
-
Storage: Let the bladder air dry completely before storing it. You can store the bladder in the freezer between trips to prevent bacterial growth.
Cleaning and Storing Your Overlanding Vehicle
After an overlanding adventure, your vehicle has probably accumulated plenty of dirt, mud, and dust. So, focusing on how to store camping gear while ignoring your vehicle's needs feels reckless.
Just like your gear, your overlanding vehicle requires proper cleaning and maintenance to keep it in top condition for future trips.
Regular care not only keeps your vehicle looking good but also prevents mechanical issues caused by dirt buildup, corrosion, or wear and tear from the elements.
Here’s how to store camping gear for your overlanding vehicle:
Cleaning Your Vehicle
-
Exterior Wash: Begin with a thorough wash of the exterior. Use a pressure washer to remove mud, dust, and grime from hard-to-reach places, like the wheel wells and undercarriage.
Focus on areas that may have come into contact with saltwater or sand, as these can accelerate rust. Be cautious with delicate areas such as electrical components and seals.
Pro Tip: For the undercarriage, consider using a hose attachment with a spray nozzle specifically designed for under-vehicle cleaning. Like this one!
-
Wheels and Tires: Tires can accumulate debris, including rocks and twigs, which can damage the rubber if left in place. Inspect the tires for wear and remove any debris. Wash the tires and rims thoroughly, paying extra attention to the grooves in the tread.
After cleaning, check the tire pressure and ensure your tires are in good condition for your next trip.
-
Interior Clean-Up: Remove all the dust, dirt, and food crumbs from the interior. Vacuum the seats, carpets, and floor mats, making sure to clean out hard-to-reach areas like under the seats.
If your vehicle has leather seats, wipe them down with a leather cleaner to prevent cracking. For cloth seats, a fabric cleaner can help remove stains and odors.
-
Engine Bay: Don’t forget to clean the engine bay. Use a gentle cleaner and a cloth to wipe down surfaces. Be careful with hoses and wiring.
For vehicles that have gone through water crossings, it’s especially important to check for any water damage and let the engine bay dry completely before parking for long periods of time.
Storing Your Overlanding Vehicle
-
Store in a Covered Space: Ideally, store your vehicle in a garage or under a carport to protect it from the elements. Exposure to sun, rain, and temperature fluctuations can lead to rust, faded paint, and deterioration of seals.
If indoor storage isn't possible, consider using a high-quality, breathable car cover to shield your vehicle from weather and UV rays.
-
Tire and Suspension Care: To prevent flat spots on your tires, consider using tire cradles or parking the vehicle on soft ground like gravel or grass. Alternatively, rotate the tires occasionally if your vehicle will be stored for an extended period.
This is particularly important for heavy overlanding rigs. Also, check your suspension system for signs of wear, especially if your trip involves rough terrain.
- Battery Maintenance: If you’re not planning on using the vehicle for a while, disconnect the battery to prevent it from draining. You can also use a battery tender to keep the battery charged without the risk of overcharging.
- Fluid Check: Make sure all fluids—engine oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, coolant, and windshield washer fluid—are topped off. If you’ve gone through harsh environments, it may be worth changing the oil or flushing the coolant before storing the vehicle.
- Inspect for Damage: Finally, conduct a thorough inspection of the vehicle’s body, undercarriage, and engine bay for any signs of damage, leaks, or wear. Addressing these issues promptly can save you from more costly repairs later.
By regularly cleaning and properly storing your overlanding vehicle, you’ll keep your vehicle ready for the next adventure. Proper care helps prevent long-term damage, increases the vehicle’s lifespan, and keeps it performing optimally on your next overlanding journey.
Final Thoughts on How to Store Camping Gear After an Overlanding Trip
Caring for your camping gear and knowing how to store camping gear properly after a trip not only prolongs its lifespan but also ensures you’re ready for the next excursion with minimal prep.
By following these cleaning and storage tips, you’ll be able to maintain your gear’s performance and comfort, giving you more time to focus on the journey and the beautiful landscapes that await.
Remember, how to store camping gear isn’t just a matter of convenience—it’s an investment in the longevity and reliability of the equipment that keeps you safe and comfortable in the wild.
{Shop All Renlicon Products For Your Overlanding Adventure!}
