When hurricane season rolls in, most people focus on prepping their homes, gathering supplies, and checking evacuation routes. But your ride deserves a place in that plan, too. Whether it’s a daily driver, a company-issued car, or a classic convertible you only bring out on sunny weekends, cars left exposed during a storm can take a beating or be lost entirely. Knowing how to store your car safely during hurricane season is essential. Let’s walk through what it takes to do it right.
Choose a Safer Spot
Let’s be clear: not all storage is equal. Storing an automobile in a home garage might sound convenient, but if you’re near the coast or in a flood zone, that garage might be the first place water finds. And detached garages are even riskier.
If possible, move any vehicle to a secure, reinforced storage unit farther inland. It doesn’t have to be fancy, just elevated, enclosed, and strong enough to withstand hurricane-force winds.
That said, the structure is only part of the equation. The best shelter won’t help if the car itself isn’t properly prepared.
Prep the Car First
Once you’ve settled on a spot, the real work begins. Wash and dry the vehicle thoroughly—yes, even if it’s going into storage. Dirt, salt, and debris can lead to rust and corrosion. Top off fluids, especially oil, brake fluid, and coolant. If you expect the car to sit for a while, add a fuel stabilizer and inflate the tires to the recommended PSI.
Disconnect the battery or remove it entirely. Electronics drain slowly over time, and if your ride ends up sitting for weeks, you don’t want to come back to a dead battery or corrosion damage.
Last but not least, cover the car. Regardless of whether it’s in a storage unit or garage, a breathable, weatherproof cover adds additional protection against moisture and dust.
Storing More Than the Car
Some people don’t just own cars—they’re responsible for them. Perhaps you drive a vehicle provided by your workplace. Maybe you’ve got an RV or motorcycle that can’t just be left out in the open.
Whatever the case, creating a disaster and emergency logistics plan makes all the difference. This could mean mapping out a trailer route in advance or arranging for a service to store vehicles off-site when a storm is forecasted. Don’t wait until the hurricane’s 48 hours away to figure out where a second car is going.
Don’t Forget the Paper Trail
Before you lock up and walk away, take a few minutes for documentation. Use a smartphone to take clear, time-stamped photos of the car inside and out. Capture the odometer reading, engine bay, trunk, and any existing dents or scratches. If you ever need to file an insurance claim after a storm, you’ll have a clean, detailed record to fall back on.
Because when it comes to how to store your car safely during hurricane season, a little extra diligence today could save you hassle down the road.
Recommended Reading: Different Ways Cold Weather Can Damage Your Car
