A practical guide to long-term care, protection, and longevity
Proper off-season storage plays a major role in how well an inflatable boat performs over time. Whether you’re packing your boat away for winter or simply storing it during a quieter period, the fundamentals are the same: clean it properly, dry it thoroughly, store it correctly, and protect it from unnecessary stress.
This guide walks through the recommended process step by step, based on best practices for premium inflatable boats, including all True Kit models. Follow these principles and your boat will be ready to go when the next season arrives.
Why Off-Season Storage Matters
Inflatable boats are designed to be tough, but like any marine equipment, long-term exposure to moisture, dirt, UV, or improper folding can shorten their lifespan.
Good storage:
- Preserves materials and seams
- Prevents mould, mildew, and odour
- Reduces wear on valves and fittings
- Helps the boat maintain its shape and performance
Most long-term issues aren’t caused by use on the water. They’re caused by how the boat is treated when it’s not being used.
Step 1: Clean the Boat Thoroughly
Before any storage period, the boat should be fully cleaned.
Rinse the entire boat with fresh water to remove:
- Salt residue
- Sand and grit
- Dirt and organic matter
Use a mild soap or inflatable-safe cleaner if needed. Avoid harsh chemicals, solvents, or abrasive tools, as these can damage the fabric and coatings.
Pay particular attention to:
- Seams and joins
- Under the tubes
- Around valves and fittings
How to Clean an Inflatable Boat the Right Way
Step 2: Let the Boat Dry Completely
This step is essential and often rushed.
Any moisture trapped during storage can lead to mould, mildew, or unpleasant odours, especially in colder or more humid climates.
- Allow the boat to air dry fully
- Open valves to encourage airflow
- If possible, dry the boat in a shaded, ventilated area
Do not store the boat damp, even if it’s “only for a short time”.
Step 3: Inspect the Boat Before Storage
Once the boat is clean and completely dry, this is the ideal time to give it a thorough inspection.
Look over the entire boat for:
- Abrasion or wear on the tubes
- Small cuts or scuffs
- Loose fittings or valve issues
- Early signs of seam stress
Addressing minor issues now is far easier than discovering them at the start of the next season. Any small repairs can be made calmly and properly, rather than rushed when you’re keen to get back on the water.
Step 4: Deflate Carefully and Evenly
When deflating, release air gradually from all chambers rather than collapsing the boat unevenly.
This helps:
- Reduce stress on seams
- Maintain fabric integrity
- Make folding easier and neater
Avoid kneeling or forcing air out aggressively. Let the boat relax into its natural shape as pressure reduces.
Suggested video link:
True Kit YouTube video showing correct deflation technique (the same video below)
Step 5: Fold the Boat the Right Way
Correct folding prevents creases, stress points, and long-term fabric fatigue.
General guidance:
- Fold along natural lines where possible
- Avoid sharp bends around valves or fittings
- Do not trap sand or debris between folds
If you’re storing the boat in its carry bag, aim for a tidy, relaxed fold rather than compressing it as tightly as possible.
True Kit pack-down or folding tutorial
Step 6: Choose the Right Storage Location
The ideal storage environment is:
- Cool
- Dry
- Shaded
- Free from pressure points
Avoid:
- Direct sunlight
- Damp sheds or garages
- Areas with rodents or pests
- Heavy items resting on the boat
If storing indoors, ensure the area is well ventilated. If storing in a bag, avoid stacking heavy objects on top. Storage should also be rodent-free. Rodents are known to chew fabrics, even when the boat is clean, and garages or sheds can be a risk if pests are present. Storing the boat indoors, in a sealed space, or using appropriate deterrents helps prevent avoidable damage.
Climate-Specific Storage Considerations
Storage conditions vary by region, so it’s worth adjusting slightly based on your environment.
Colder climates
- Ensure the boat is completely dry before storage
- Avoid freezing conditions where possible
- Protect against rodents in garages or sheds
Warmer or high-UV climates
- Prioritise shade and UV protection
- Avoid storing in enclosed spaces that overheat
- Allow airflow to prevent condensation
The principles remain the same; only the risks change.
Don’t Forget Accessories and Equipment
Off-season care applies to more than just the boat itself.
Before storage:
- Rinse and dry seats, bags, wheels, and biminis
- Store accessories separately if possible
- Check moving parts for wear
If you use an outboard or electric motor, follow the manufacturer’s recommended off-season procedures alongside the boat storage process.
Should You Store Inflated or Deflated?
For most owners, deflated storage is preferred, particularly when space is limited or the boat will be unused for an extended period.
However, if you have:
- A large, dry, temperature-controlled space
- No risk of UV exposure or pressure damage
Lightly inflated storage can also work. The key is avoiding prolonged stress, moisture, and heat, regardless of the method.
Seeing the Process Step by Step
True Kit provides video walkthroughs demonstrating proper cleaning, deflation, folding, and storage techniques. These videos are a useful visual reference and pair well with the steps outlined above.
How to Pack Up Your True Kit Inflatable
Suggested Reading:
How to Store and Maintain Your Inflatable Boat for Further Adventures
Plan Ahead
Inflatable boats are designed for flexibility, but how you store them between seasons plays a major role in how they perform long-term.
A few careful steps during the off-season can:
- Extend the life of your boat
- Keep materials and seams in top condition
- Ensure a smooth return to the water next season
Whether you own a Discovery, Navigator, Tactician, Stowaway, or any other True Kit inflatable, good storage habits help protect your investment and keep your boat ready for years of use.
For more guidance, accessories, and official tutorials, explore the full support and resources available from True Kit.
