Regardless of how much money you spend on an RV, the memories you’ve made in it are priceless. As such, you’ll want to do everything you can to protect it, especially while keeping it in storage. Sure, routine RV maintenance and regular inspections are of utmost importance, but where and how you store it is equally important.
Though storing your RV in a covered, climate-controlled building is the best and safest storage option, it isn’t always financially possible for those RVers on a budget. As a result, many people end up storing their RV outdoors.
If you have to store your RV outside, you’ll need coverage from moisture, high winds, hail, and other threats that could damage your RV’s exterior and interior. Which is why you’ll want to consider investing in an RV cover.
The Importance of RV Covers
One of the best ways to keep your safe while it’s stored outdoors is to invest in an RV cover. As their name implies, RV covers are designed for the sole purpose of covering your RV, effectively protecting it from precipitation (which can cause paint discoloration), scratches (resulting from protruding branches or other vehicles that may come in contact with your RV), pests (which can spread disease, ransack your cupboards, and potentially destroy your RV’s interior).
RV covers are preferable to tarps and other DIY coverings because they’re breathable and don’t trap moisture inside your rig.
RV covers are typically made of waterproof, durable fabrics, such as polyester, polypropylene, and vinyl, and are designed to protect your RV from water, snow, UV radiation, and more. For the best RV tarp brands of 2023, check out this article.
However, while RV covers protect your rig from harsh weather and other threats, most RV covers are made of soft materials and won’t guard against debris, hale, and falling objects. That’s why it’s important to evaluate both the pros and cons of an RV cover before purchasing.
Pros of Using RV Covers
Here are some of the reasons many RV owners choose to use RV covers to protect their rig.
Protection From UV Radiation
Harmful UV rays from the sun are considered a silent killer for RVs and other types of vehicles and trailers. Over time, the combination of high heat and radiation from the sun can degrade your RV roof, resulting in leaks, cracks, and moisture damage.
While sun damage is more common while storing your RV during the summer, it can also happen during the winter, as long as the sun is shining.
Bird Droppings and Moisture Protection
Because it covers your RV’s roof, RV covers protect your rig from rain, bird droppings, heavy snow, etc. Without an RV cover, these airborne threats could cause discoloration and wear and tear, resulting in costly repairs and decreased resale value.
Protects the Inside of Your RV
In addition to protecting the outside of your vehicle, RV covers also protect the inside of your rig. However, indoor protection is only guaranteed if you use a custom, waterproof RV cover (that’s still breathable).
This type of high-quality cover is designed to repel trapped moisture that builds up inside your RV escape, which reduces the risk of mold growth.
Depending on the type of RV (Motorhome, toy hauler, travel trailer, etc.), the class of RV (Class A, Class B, Class C), and your preferred material (polyester, vinyl, etc.), a custom RV cover can run anywhere from a couple hundred dollars to a couple thousand dollars. For a more accurate estimation, check out this site here.
Less Interior and Exterior Maintenance
Because a high-quality RV cover protects both the inside and outside of your vehicle, your rig will require less maintenance when you remove it for storage and de-winterize it the next year. This can save you a ton of time and money on costly repairs.
More Affordable Than Indoor Storage
In a perfect world, everyone would be able to afford indoor, climate-controlled RV storage. However, because indoor RV storage costs an average of $130 per month. Purchasing a standard RV cover for a one-time fee of between $150 to $500 is a more affordable, long-term alternative.
Maintains Your RV’s Value
An unprotected RV is more likely to sustain internal and external damage, damage which can negatively impact your RV’s total value (To calculate your RV’s resale value, use this tool).
Therefore, investing in the right cover for your RV will also help it maintain its resale value, which is important if you ever plan to sell it.
Cons of Using RV Covers
While there are many advantages of using an RV cover for outdoor storage, there are also a few disadvantages of going this route.
The Temptation to Use a DIY Cover
While RV covers are more affordable than investing in climate-controlled storage, they’re still somewhat pricy. Therefore, you may be tempted to save money by using low-quality or opting for a DIY RV cover.
Unfortunately, these types of covers, including vinyl tarps, tend to trap moisture inside your RV, which can result in mold and mildew build-up.
Therefore, if you plan to cover your RV, you should only use covers made of breathable materials, specifically designed for your RV”s protection.
Doesn’t Protect From Debris and Objects
While RV covers protect against UV damage, rain, snow, and high winds, they can’t guard against everything. RV covers are typically made of soft fabrics, which means they don’t form a solid wall of protection against debris, hale, and falling objects.
Makes For Difficult Access
Additionally, if you want to check in on your RV periodically to monitor interior temperatures or your rig’s roof, having it covered makes it more difficult to access.
Choosing the Right RV Cover
In order for an RV cover to adequately protect your RV while it’s in storage, it’s essential to pick the right one.
Consider Your RV Size
Before choosing an RV cover, it’s important to measure your RV’s length, width, and height and choose a cover that fits the RV’s dimensions. You should also consider the type of RV you have, as a travel trailer or toy hauler will require a cover of a different size/shape than a motorhome or fifth wheel.
Materials and Durability
Aside from choosing a cover that’s the right size, it’s essential to choose one that’s made of a waterproof but breathable material. You also want a cover that’s durable and isn’t going to tear or blow away the first time it gets hit by high winds or a thunderstorm.
If you’re looking for durability and resistance to high winds, you’ll want to splurge on a custom RV cover.
Currently, the ADCO RV cover series from Camping World offers some of the best RV covers on the market.
Final Thoughts
RV covers are a great and affordable alternative when indoor storage is not an option. However, because most covers are heavy and move slightly in high winds, they can damage your RV’s paint job, resulting in costly repairs.
If you don’t want to risk the potential paint damage an RV cover can cause but still want your rig protected, consider turning to Neighbor. Neighbor is a peer-to-peer storage marketplace offering safe and affordable RV storage options near you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I Cover My RV While It’s in Storage?
Covering your RV during the off-season is a wise decision, given that an RV cover offers moisture, wind, snow, and UV protection. However, it’s important to use a cover specifically designed to protect RVs, as failing to do so could do more harm than good.
Should RV Covers Be Waterproof?
Yes, RV covers should be waterproof for the best protection and performance. Look for a cover that is also UV resistant and has a custom-like fit.
What Makes a Good RV Cover?
For a good RV cover, look for rip-resistant and waterproof polypropylene fabric that still offers breathability. Vents can help reduce billowing, while zippered panels allow access to the doors and compartments.
Can You Drive With an RV Cover On?
Before you drive your RV, it’s essential that you first remove the cover. Otherwise, your windshield will be covered, and you won’t be able to see anything on the road in front of you. Additionally, even if your cover doesn’t block the windshield, the high winds that occur while your RV is in motion will either tear the cover or blow it away.
