You’ve probably heard the debate of whether or not to use a Class A or Class C RV cover when you store your motorhome. You don’t need one if you’ve secured a reservation at an indoor facility. But if you’re planning on leaving your motorhome outside for any extended time, you want to deal with whatever hassles it takes to protect it fully. After all, you’ve likely spent tens of thousands of dollars on your rig.
Preserving the paint, reducing the risk of mold, and keeping the seals in tip-top shape is vitally important to the longevity of your home on wheels. Let’s look at the best Class A RV covers and Class C motorhome covers to help you protect your investment.
What Are Motorhome Covers?
Once the camping season is over, many RVers will winterize their RV and put it in storage either on their own or in a storage facility. The process of winterization protects the RV’s pipes from freezing during sub-zero temperatures. However, this isn’t the only thing you should do if you own a motorhome.
You must also cover Class A or Class C to protect it from harsh weather conditions. Motorhome covers increase the life of your RV by protecting its exterior from rain, snow, sleet, and the sun’s harmful rays.
Most motorhome owners take pride in the appearance of their coaches. Putting a cover on when it’s not in use is key to maintaining that sleek appearance.
Pro Tip: Make winterizing your motorhome easy with our guide on How to Use RV Antifreeze to Winterize Your Rig.
When Should You Cover Your Motorhome?
If your Class A or Class C is going to be sitting for an extended period, you should cover it. Weather can do a number on your RV. Many people opt to cover their RV in the wintertime while it is in seasonal storage.
It’s not just about appearance, either. The sun’s rays can damage seals and tires, leading to costly repairs. Dirt and grime can build up, leaving you a nasty mess to clean once spring camping season gears back up. To save time, energy, and money, put a motorhome cover on your rig when it’s not in use for several weeks.
Know Before You Buy:
Before you start scanning Amazon or going to a Camping World, there are a few things you want to know.
You don’t want to grab a motorhome cover because it’s the cheapest option, or your friends tell you it’s what you should do.
Do RV Covers Cause Mold?
Motorhome covers don’t cause mold. They prevent it.
However, your rig must be completely dry before you put on the cover. If you put a cover on a wet coach, you will increase the risk of mold. RV covers prevent moisture from building up on your Class A or Class C, which can lead to mold.
So by covering your rig, you’re reducing your risk of dealing with mold when you return the next time you want to take out your motorhome.
Can RV Covers Damage the Outside of Your RV?
Potentially, motorhome covers can damage the outside of your RV.
It seems like an oxymoron as you put on the cover to protect the exterior. But what can happen is the rubbing of the cover on the rig, whether from excessive putting on or taking off or from heavy winds, can damage the exterior of your RV.
However, damage usually doesn’t happen with a properly fitted cover. If your RV cover is too loose, it can damage your RV’s outside.
Factor in the weather conditions at the site you’re planning to store. Whenever possible, park somewhere that will provide a block from the prevailing winds to minimized shifting and wear.
How Long Do RV Covers Last?
Depending on the quality of your RV cover, it could last a season or two, or it could last for several years. A cheaper motorhome cover may save you on the front end but cost you money when you have to buy another one just a few years later.
Many companies offer a one to five-year warranty, which will give you an idea of the material quality.
How to Choose the Best Motorhome Cover
When you’ve decided to buy a motorhome cover, you should look for a few things. First, note the durability and the warranty. If the company only provides a one-year warranty, it’s probably not worth it. Read reviews and talk to other RVers. If you have a friend who has had the same motorhome cover for three or four years, it’s probably a good indication of a well-made product.
You also want to note how it fits. Are the straps robust enough to prevent scraping? Will it be securely attached to your rig to prevent damage? Make sure it’s going to fit easily but also snugly.
One of the most critical steps is correctly measuring your Class A or Class C to know what size motorhome cover to purchase. First, measure bumper to bumper. Include the ladder, spare tire, or anything else extending from the rear bumper.
Next, measure the entire frame from top to bottom. Do not stop at the top of the wheel wells or measure to the ground. Do not include air conditioning units or solar panels either. Measure from the bottom of the frame to the top of the motorcoach.
Finally, calculate the length from side to side, not including any awnings or mirrors. Your mirrors should be folded in when installing a cover.
Pro Tip: Learn more about the Amazing Benefits of Covered RV Storage.
Best Class A Motorhome Covers
If you’re ready to purchase your Class A motorhome cover, we have researched and found some great options for you. These two options provide outstanding protection, are made from quality materials, and are easy to put on.
1. RVMasking Waterproof RV Cover Class A Cover Heavy Duty 6 Layers Windproof
About: This Class A RV cover is waterproof, thus reducing the risk of mold and moisture getting onto your rig. It has anti-UV protection that keeps the sun’s rays from damaging the paint or causing premature fading. RVMasking provides a three-year replacement warranty.
- Abundant Accessories & 3 Years Warranty: 1*class A rv cover...
- Upgraded Anti-UV - The proportion of UV-resistant composites...
- Tear-resistant and waterproof -- 6 layers of top fabric + 3...
Size: 31.1-34 feet, 37.1-40 feet
Best Features: The six-ply, non-woven fabric is durable and strong to protect your Class A for years. There are six layers of top fabric and three layers of side fabric for excellent protection. The straps, buckles, and elastic hem corners make this Class A RV cover fit snugly.
2. Classic Accessories Over Drive SkyShield Deluxe RV Class A Cover
About: Air vents in this Class A motorhome cover prevent moisture from settling in and provide relief from wind lofting. Adjustable tension panels and elasticized hem corners help make this cover fit snugly. In addition, the integrated straps and a weighted toss puck system keep the cover in place even in windy conditions.
- Class A Motorhome Cover: Fits Class A RVs 40' - 42' long, 140"...
- Cover purchase includes 4-year warranty
- Bonded DuPont Tyvek fabric top provides long-lasting protection...
Size: 24-28 feet, 28-30 feet, 30-33 feet, 33-37 feet, 37-40 feet, 40-42 feet
Best Features: Classic Accessories provides a four-year warranty, one of the longest in the industry. Zippered panels allow for easy access to RV doors and storage compartments should you need to get inside during the off-season. The PolyPRO3 triple-ply extra weather protective roof fabric is strong enough to withstand water and sun.
Best Class C Motorhome Covers:
These three Class C motorhome covers offer superior protection when you need to store your motorhome for a season. A bit different from Class A RV covers because of the unique shape of the front of the rig, these motorhome covers still offer the same waterproofing, durability, and sun protection you want.
1. RVMasking 2021 Upgraded 6 Layers Top RV Class C Cover Windproof Camper Cover
About: Like the RVMasking Class A RV cover, this Class C motorhome cover also comes with a three-year replacement warranty. It’s made with the same anti-UV protection and waterproofing as the Class A cover to protect your Class C from harmful UV rays and mold.
- Abundant Accessories & 3 Years Warranty: 1*class c rv cover...
- Upgraded Anti-UV - The proportion of UV-resistant composites...
- Tear-resistant and waterproof -- 6 layers of top fabric + 3...
Size: 23-26 feet, 26-29 feet
Best Features: The 6-ply non-woven fabric is durable and sturdy to protect your Class C for years. There are six layers of top fabric and three layers on the side for excellent protection. The straps, buckles, and elastic hem corners make this Class C motorhome cover fit snugly.
2. KING BIRD Upgraded Class C RV Cover, Extra-Thick 5 Layers Anti-UV Top Panel
About: Noted as one of Amazon’s Choice products, this KING BIRD Class C motorhome cover features a non-woven white composite fabric with five layers on top and three on the sides. Six air vents on both sides provide wind lofting relief and reduce moisture build-up. The company offers a two-year limited warranty.
- ✅【TEAR PROOF】–Newly developing Mixed Anti-UV Composite...
- ✅【WIND PROOF】–The change of position of the middle...
- ✅【BREATHABLE】–6 Air vents on both sides, can effectively...
Size: 20-23 feet, 23-26 feet, 26-29 feet, 29-32 feet
Best Features: The little things make this Class C motorhome cover one of the top choices. For example, the rollable zippered door allows easy RV and engine access. It’s also easy to view and check inside the RV. Yellow reflective panels also provide maximum safety at night. Windproof straps and buckles provide a secure fit.
3. Fonzier Windproof Class C RV Cover Waterproof Rip-Stop Camper Cover
About: Fonzier listened to customers who voiced concerns about previous products tearing, so the company redesigned the four straps and buckles. Elastic corners also secure the motorhome cover. Four air vents provide airflow along the roof line on both sides to reduce wind pressure and moisture build-up.
- 【UPGRADE RIP-STOP FABRIC】Portability and higher durability...
- 【WINDPROOF & SNUGLY FIT】 Based on the feedback that the side...
- 【EASY INSTALLATION】 Each kits arrive ready to install and...
Size: 23-26 feet, 26-29 feet, 29-32 feet
Best Features: This Fonzier Class C motorhome cover features high-quality, Oxford non-woven fabric for superior protection. It offers 2000-millimeter water resistance and 4% anti-UV composition. The zippers offer padding to prevent scratching your RV.
Tips for Putting Your Motorhome Cover on
When it’s time to put away your motorhome for a season, there are a few things to remember. First, always ask for help. Putting on a motorhome cover is not a task for one person to complete alone. Not only will it save you time and energy, but you’ll also have extra hands and eyes to protect you as you climb up ladders.
Second, have multiple ladders, if possible, so you don’t have to move just one constantly. Have a couple of people standing on ladders on each side of the RV to work together to secure the motorhome cover.
Finally, don’t try to put on your Class A RV cover or Class C RV cover on a windy day. If you have to postpone covering it for a day or two, it’s okay. It’s not worth trying to secure flying straps that might ding your motorhome or you standing on ladders while the wind pushes you around. Again, ensure your RV is fully dry before covering it, and wait for a clear day before attempting to put on the motorhome cover.
Are Motorhome Covers Worth It?
Spending a few hundred dollars on an RV cover is spare change compared to what you’ve spent on your motorhome. Protect your investment. Feel confident that when you return to take off the cover for the next camping season, your rig won’t be damaged, the paint won’t fade, and mold won’t grow. You can quickly clean it up and prepare it for your next camping adventure!
What motorhome cover do you use on your RV? Tell us in the comments!
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