When the camping season wraps up, what do you do with your RV? RV experts agree that storing it indoors is best, but if you are unable to, an RV cover is the next best option.
We will show you in this article why you need to cover your RV and the best RV cover you can buy for your specific model.
As with permanent residences, your RV suffers from the elements when left outside uncovered. UV rays from the sun fade the paint and crack the seals, while moisture from rain, snow, or ice causes a buildup of mold and mildew.
A cover keeps dirt and debris from building up, which contributes to the black streaks, which should be washed off immediately. With less dirt on your camper, there is no need to wash or wax it as often, which saves you money.
The cover protects against punctures from hail and ice storms, which can create roof leaks.
Finally, you need to cover your RV as it keeps the inside elements cooler in the summer. If you use your camper frequently during the summer, you don't need to cover it at all times. However, if it will stay parked for a long time, you need to cover it to prevent the inside elements from being damaged.
If you are not going to use your RV for an extended period, you should either store it in a building or cover it up with a waterproof cover.
Many experts agree that you should never use a tarp to cover your RV for several reasons.
The main reason to cover your RV is to keep out the moisture, which will warp the outer shell and cause mold and mildew. Unfortunately, tarps only trap moisture, rather than keeping it out.
There is no right way to secure a tarp over your RV without resorting to bungee cords or ropes. The wind catches the tarp from underneath and blows it to shreds, moving the ropes or cords against the vehicle, causing damage from scratches and nicks.
Unless you can find a single tarp large enough to cover your entire RV, you will end up needing several to cover it, which leaves spots open to the elements.
The best RV covers can do the job with no gaps or holes, with attached straps to secure it against wind and rain. The material will be waterproof and rip-resistant.
Polypropylene fabric is the most common material used for outdoor covers, as it is rip-resistant and waterproof. It also breathes, allowing moisture to evaporate right away, which means that mold or mildew has no chance to grow, keeping you and your vehicle healthy and safe.
When it is time to cover your RV, Tito gives a few tips on how to put your cover on your camper the correct way with minimal effort.
Before buying a cover, be sure to measure your RV correctly. While you may think that all you need to do is measure from top to bottom and side to side, it's a bit more complicated than that.
To get the best fit, first measure the length from the two longest points, including the spare tire, ladder, and bumpers. Exclude the hitch in your measurement, as you don't need to cover it from the elements.
Next, measure the height from the base of your RV to the rooftop. Most covers are designed to accommodate rooftop accessories, but some do not. Before buying a cover, be sure the measurements stated include your rooftop accessories.
We have reviewed the best budget RV covers and found two that measure up in this category.
Made with multi-layer polypropylene material, this cover breathes and keeps out moisture. The straps and buckle system allows you to secure the cover at the front and back fully, and keeps everything tight.
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The four-layered polypropylene cover will bead water on contact, making this cover perfect in rain and snow. Made for class A, B, and C trailers, it also prevents ice buildup, making it great for more extreme climates, like the upper Midwest.
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If you have a little more room in your budget, these covers will help keep your RV safe during the off-season.
With four layers of Anti-UV composite fabric and reinforced straps, this cover is designed to keep even the worst weather away from your RV. The material is rip-resistant and waterproof. With a two-year warranty, this cover will give you peace of mind that your RV is protected.
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Made from thick 4-ply fabric, this RV cover keeps out harmful UV rays, wind, rain, snow, and ice from your RV. With double-stitched seams, the cover is durable and lasts longer than other covers. Air vents allow any moisture underneath the cover to evaporate quickly.
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When you want only the best, check out these RV covers. We have reviewed them all and found these two covers to be the best.
With five layers of material and a waterproof membrane in the middle, this cover will keep even the worst storm from damaging your camper. The corners are elasticized, which gives a custom fit that stands up to heavy winds.
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Weatherproof buckles and an assist pole come with this cover, making it one of the most accessible covers on the market to set up. The cover allows for rooftop accessories without pulling or tugging, keeping your cover newer longer.
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The best RV cover will keep the elements from damaging your RV. Our favorite is the RVMasking cover, as it has a waterproof membrane between four layers of fabric, and it is rip-resistant. While the gutter pouches do tend to tear easily, it is a minor drawback and one that can easily be repaired with the included adhesive patch.
It outclasses the other RV covers because of the extra vent pouches. Moisture creates mold and mildew, so keeping it out through the vent pouches will stop mold from growing.
Having a rip-resistant, waterproof RV cover will keep your investment safe from the elements and keep it looking brand new for years to come.