Slide out RV storage refers to compartments built into the sides of recreational vehicles (RVs) that can be extended outward to create additional living space. These compartments typically house items such as beds, sofas, and kitchens, and can significantly increase the amount of usable space within an RV.
Slide out RV storage offers several benefits, including:
- Increased living space: Slide outs can add hundreds of square feet of living space to an RV, making them ideal for families or groups who need more room to spread out.
- Improved comfort: Slide outs can provide a more comfortable living environment by creating separate spaces for sleeping, eating, and socializing.
- Increased storage: Slide outs can also provide additional storage space for items such as clothes, food, and gear.
The first slide out RV storage compartments were introduced in the early 1960s, and they have since become a popular feature on many RVs. Slide outs are available in a variety of sizes and configurations, and can be customized to meet the specific needs of RV owners.
1. Space
Slide out RV storage is an essential feature for many RVers. It allows them to increase their living space, improve their comfort, and increase their storage capacity. One of the most significant benefits of slide out RV storage is the amount of space it can add to an RV.
- Expandable living area: Slide outs can add hundreds of square feet of living space to an RV. This can make a big difference for families or groups who need more room to spread out.
- Separate spaces: Slide outs can also be used to create separate spaces for sleeping, eating, and socializing. This can make RV living more comfortable and enjoyable.
- Increased storage: In addition to providing more living space, slide outs can also provide additional storage space for items such as clothes, food, and gear.
- Customization: Slide outs can be customized to meet the specific needs of RV owners. This means that you can choose the size, shape, and configuration of your slide out to perfectly suit your needs.
If you are considering purchasing an RV, slide out storage is an important feature to consider. It can make a big difference in the amount of space, comfort, and storage capacity that your RV has to offer.
2. Comfort
Slide out RV storage can provide a more comfortable living environment in several ways.
- Separate spaces: Slide outs can be used to create separate spaces for sleeping, eating, and socializing. This can make RV living more comfortable and enjoyable.
- Privacy: Slide outs can provide privacy for different activities. For example, one slide out can be used for a bedroom, while another can be used for a living room.
- Climate control: Slide outs can be used to create different climate zones within an RV. For example, one slide out can be used for a bedroom, which can be kept cool at night, while another slide out can be used for a living room, which can be kept warm during the day.
- Customization: Slide outs can be customized to meet the specific needs of RV owners. This means that you can choose the size, shape, and configuration of your slide out to perfectly suit your needs.
Overall, slide out RV storage can make RV living more comfortable and enjoyable. By creating separate spaces for different activities, slide outs can provide privacy, climate control, and customization.
3. Storage
Slide out RV storage can provide a significant amount of additional storage space for items such as clothes, food, and gear. This can be a major benefit for RVers who need to store bulky items or who simply want to have more space to spread out.
- Increased capacity: Slide outs can add hundreds of cubic feet of storage space to an RV. This can make a big difference for families or groups who need to store a lot of gear.
- Accessibility: Slide outs are typically located on the sides of an RV, making them easy to access from the outside. This makes it easy to load and unload gear, even when the RV is parked in a tight spot.
- Customization: Slide outs can be customized to meet the specific needs of RV owners. This means that you can choose the size, shape, and configuration of your slide out to perfectly suit your needs.
- Security: Slide outs are typically lockable, providing security for your belongings.
Overall, slide out RV storage can provide a significant amount of additional storage space for RVers. This can be a major benefit for families or groups who need to store a lot of gear or who simply want to have more space to spread out.
4. Types
Slide outs come in a variety of types, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The most common types of slide outs are full-wall slides, slide toppers, and slide awnings.
- Full-wall slides are the largest type of slide out, and they extend the entire length of the RV wall. Full-wall slides can add a significant amount of living space to an RV, but they are also the heaviest and most expensive type of slide out.
- Slide toppers are smaller than full-wall slides, and they only extend part of the way across the RV wall. Slide toppers are lighter and less expensive than full-wall slides, but they do not add as much living space.
- Slide awnings are the smallest type of slide out, and they only extend a few feet from the RV wall. Slide awnings are the lightest and least expensive type of slide out, but they do not add any living space.
When choosing a type of slide out, it is important to consider the following factors:
- The amount of living space you need
- The weight of the slide out
- The cost of the slide out
By considering these factors, you can choose the right type of slide out for your needs.
5. Sizes
The size of a slide out is an important consideration when choosing one for your RV. Slide outs come in a variety of sizes, from small slide outs that can accommodate a bed to large slide outs that can accommodate an entire living room. The size of the slide out will determine how much additional space it can add to your RV.
Small slide outs are a good option for RVers who need a little extra space for sleeping or storage. They are also a good choice for RVers who have a smaller RV and do not want to add too much weight. Large slide outs are a good option for RVers who need a lot of extra space for living or entertaining. They are also a good choice for RVers who have a larger RV and can handle the extra weight.
When choosing the size of a slide out, it is important to consider the following factors:
- The amount of space you need
- The weight of the slide out
- The cost of the slide out
By considering these factors, you can choose the right size slide out for your needs.
6. Customization
Customization is an important aspect of slide out RV storage. It allows RV owners to choose the size, shape, and configuration of their slide out to perfectly suit their needs. This can make a big difference in the amount of space, comfort, and storage capacity that an RV has to offer.
For example, a family with young children might choose a slide out that includes a bunk bed, while a couple who loves to entertain might choose a slide out that includes a large living area. RV owners can also choose to add features such as awnings, screens, and even kitchens to their slide outs.
The ability to customize slide outs is a major benefit for RV owners. It allows them to create a truly unique RV that meets their specific needs and lifestyle. This can make RVing more enjoyable and comfortable.
7. Maintenance
Regular maintenance is crucial for the proper functioning and longevity of slide out RV storage. Without proper care, slide outs can become damaged or malfunction, leading to costly repairs or even safety hazards.
- Regular cleaning: Slide outs should be cleaned regularly to remove dirt and debris that can accumulate on the tracks and seals. This will help to prevent the slide out from becoming stuck or damaged.
- Lubrication: The tracks and gears of slide outs should be lubricated regularly to ensure smooth operation. This will help to prevent the slide out from becoming stuck or grinding.
- Inspection: Slide outs should be inspected regularly for any signs of damage or wear. This includes checking the tracks, seals, and gears for any cracks, tears, or other damage.
- Repairs: Any damage to a slide out should be repaired immediately to prevent further damage or malfunction. This may involve replacing seals, tracks, or gears.
By following these maintenance tips, RV owners can help to ensure that their slide outs operate properly and safely for many years to come.
FAQs about Slide Out RV Storage
Slide out RV storage is a popular feature on many RVs, but it can also be a source of confusion and concern for some RV owners. Here are some frequently asked questions about slide out RV storage:
Question 1: What are the benefits of slide out RV storage?
Answer: Slide out RV storage offers several benefits, including increased living space, improved comfort, and increased storage capacity. Slide outs can add hundreds of square feet of living space to an RV, making them ideal for families or groups who need more room to spread out. They can also create separate spaces for sleeping, eating, and socializing, which can make RV living more comfortable and enjoyable. In addition, slide outs can provide additional storage space for items such as clothes, food, and gear.
Question 2: What are the different types of slide out RV storage?
Answer: There are three main types of slide out RV storage: full-wall slides, slide toppers, and slide awnings. Full-wall slides are the largest type of slide out, and they extend the entire length of the RV wall. Slide toppers are smaller than full-wall slides, and they only extend part of the way across the RV wall. Slide awnings are the smallest type of slide out, and they only extend a few feet from the RV wall.
Question 3: How do I choose the right size slide out RV storage for my needs?
Answer: When choosing the right size slide out RV storage for your needs, you need to consider the following factors: the amount of space you need, the weight of the slide out, and the cost of the slide out. The amount of space you need will depend on how many people will be using the RV and what activities you plan to do. The weight of the slide out will affect the towing capacity of your RV. And the cost of the slide out will vary depending on the size, type, and features of the slide out.
Question 4: How do I maintain slide out RV storage?
Answer: Slide out RV storage requires regular maintenance to ensure that it operates properly and safely. This maintenance includes cleaning the tracks and seals, lubricating the tracks and gears, and inspecting the slide out for any signs of damage or wear. By following these maintenance tips, you can help to ensure that your slide out RV storage will provide you with years of trouble-free use.
Slide out RV storage can be a great way to add space, comfort, and storage to your RV. By understanding the different types of slide outs and how to choose the right one for your needs, you can make the most of this valuable feature.
Transition to the next article section:
For more information on slide out RV storage, please consult your RV owner’s manual or speak to a qualified RV technician.
Tips for Slide Out RV Storage
Slide out RV storage can be a great way to add space, comfort, and storage to your RV. However, it is important to properly maintain and use slide outs to ensure that they operate safely and efficiently.
8. Five Tips for Slide Out RV Storage
Conclusion
Slide out RV storage is an essential feature for many RVers. It allows them to increase their living space, improve their comfort, and increase their storage capacity. Slide outs come in a variety of types and sizes, and can be customized to meet the specific needs of RV owners. Regular maintenance is crucial for the proper functioning and longevity of slide out RV storage.
By following the tips in this article, RV owners can help to ensure that their slide outs operate safely and efficiently for many years to come. Slide out RV storage can be a great way to add space, comfort, and storage to your RV. By understanding the different types of slide outs and how to choose the right one for your needs, you can make the most of this valuable feature.
