How to Measure for an RV Cover

How to Measure for an RV Cover

Investing in an RV, also known as a camper, is a great way to go on real-life cross-country adventures. Plus, you get to experience camping at its best without sacrificing the comfort of a real bathroom or a nice, soft mattress to sleep on.

Yet, owning one of these vehicles requires regular maintenance and upkeep. One of the most important is buying the right-sized cover for your camper to keep it safe and secure while it's in storage.

So, are you looking for that perfect cover to protect your RV but don't know where to start? Well, then, you've come to the right place!

We put together a quick guide on how to measure for an RV cover. In it, you'll find everything you need to help you pick out the best-fitting cover for maximum, long-lasting protection.

Let's get started.

How to Measure for an RV Cover in 3 Easy Steps

The best way to get your RV's measurements is to physically measure it using a good old-fashioned tape measure.

Unfortunately, it's not enough to get the measurements from your owner's manual, or from the manufacturer's website. They may vary slightly from what you really have.

So, while it may be a bit of a nuisance to get out there and measure your camper, it guarantees that you get the exact measurements of your recreational vehicle. Trust us; this is one thing you want to get right the first time!

First and foremost, it saves you the hassle of buying a cover only to find out it's the wrong size.

If the RV cover turns out to be too small, it'll likely rip during installation and become useless. Conversely, if it's too big, the wind won't keep it in place for too long, which reduces the level of protection and increases the risk of the cover getting damaged.

Either way, you have to return it, or throw it out, before starting your search all over again.

So, to save yourself the hassle, get your tape measure out, pen and paper in hand, and let's get started.

Step 1: Measure the Length of the RV

To find the right-sized cover, start by measuring the two longest points of the RV. This includes things like the bumpers, ladders, spare tires, and so on.

The only thing you should exclude is the hitch and even the front tongue jack.

Step 2: Measure the Height of the RV

When measuring the height of the RV, start from the top line of the camper roof all the way down the exterior frame. Only include accessories found on the roof of the RV, like air vents or AC units.

Then, as you make your way down, stop at the end of the frame without including any ground clearance.

Step 3: Measure the Width of the RV

Many RV owners tend to skip this step because most covers are standard. So, as long as you have the length and height, then the width is usually a given.

Yet, why risk it? You're already standing there with the tape measure in hand. It won't hurt to spend a few more extra minutes for added precaution.

You may be tempted to include the side mirrors in your measurement. Yet, many RVers don't recommend it because the mirrors are typically folded down to keep them safe during storage.

Installing Your RV Cover

Once you have your cover in hand, it's time to install it. Draping it over your camper is straightforward enough. However, it's also a good idea to read the manufacturer's instructions as a guide.

Don't worry if the cover is slightly loose when you first drape it over the RV. The only thing you should look out for is that it envelopes the entire span of the camper, as well as the sides.

Then, once you've adjusted all the sides and corners, you can tighten the cover with the available straps in the front and back of the RV. Some even have an extra cinch around the bottom for added security.

These tie-downs are there to ensure a tight, secure fit over and around the vehicle from all sides. Thus, the body of the camper stays hidden from wind, sun, and rain.

Another benefit is that they help strap the cover in place. This way, if there are strong winds, heavy rainfall, or snow, the cover will stay right where you left it.

If you live somewhere especially windy, it may be a good idea to buy some additional tie-down straps or cinches to ensure the cover stays more immobile.

The Benefits of Using an RV Cover

Using an appropriately sized cover to protect your camper can help extend its lifespan. A well-fitted cover can also preserve its resale value by preserving its exterior frame and sidewalls, especially if you're planning on storing it for a long time.

These covers safeguard RVs against harmful UV rays during the summer. They also protect against extreme weather conditions, shielding your RV against ice, wind, and rain.

Not only that, but almost all covers repel moisture. In other words, they're waterproof, or at the very least, water-resistant, to help guard all the components of the RV's exterior frame against rain, snow, and sleet.

At the same time, they're also designed to be porous to allow them to breathe. This design feature provides the covers with the ability to prevent any condensation and moisture from building up and getting trapped underneath.

As a result, there's no risk of any mildew or mold growth from forming. It also reduces the chance of rust or corrosion affecting the body of the RV.

A Final Note

Protecting your camper with a cover is necessary to protect your investment and keep it in great condition until you're ready to take it out of storage once again.

So, the next time you're wondering how to measure for an RV cover, you can ensure you get the best cover for your camper using the measuring tips in our handy guide.

Happy RVing.