Vacations in a recreational vehicle (RV) have several advantages over other kinds of vacations. RV vacations are flexible and convenient; you are at liberty to travel anywhere you wish at any time that suits you. On an RV vacation, you can enjoy the comforts of home as you travel to new places, and you can enjoy more quality time with family, including the pets. RVs are also a more affordable way to vacation, according to studies comparing vacation costs. The results of this increased recognition of the advantages of RV vacations can be seen in the rise of RV sales, and sales are projected to continue rising over the next year or more, according to the Recreation Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA).
One may wonder, though, what happens to RVs when they are not out on the road. A 2005 University of Michigan study authorized by the RVIA discovered that RV owners are on the road 26 days each year, on average. This leaves approximately 339 days when the RV is not in use. Where does the RV “live” when its owners are not taking a vacation? While an enclosed garage or storage area is the ideal location to store an RV for any length of time, most owners don’t have facilities like these at hand. More often than not, an RV sits on a homeowner’s property or at an outdoor RV storage facility. Harsh weather, moisture, sun, insects, birds, dirt, and other debris can take a heavy and expensive toll on an RV, so the best way to protect an RV is with RV covers. RV covers are a necessary accessory for ensuring that your mobile vacation home stays in top shape until the next time you want to take it on the road.
There’s a proper RV cover to fit just about every kind of RV, from Class A and Class C to travel trailers, folding campers, truck campers, and 5th wheel RVs. Be sure to select the appropriate cover for your particular RV so that you know it will fit properly. RV covers can be custom made, too, for those who want an even better fit or special features. Just any kind of RV covers won’t do, though. RV covers should be made from a robust, but breathable material. You’ll want a material that can resist harsh weather conditions, but also prevent moisture from becoming trapped and developing into mold and mildew. Some RV covers come equipped with access panels, making it easier to reach different parts of your RV without having to remove the entire cover to do so.
Covering other exposed parts of your RV is vital, too, especially when storing the vehicle for an extended period of time. RV wheel covers are an easy way to protect your tires from weather damage, and from damage that the sun’s UV rays can produce. In addition, there are RV covers to protect propane and LP gas tanks from sun and weather exposure, and RV covers for air conditioners which protect the units not only from sun and weather, but from insects who may like to nest inside.
When you’re ready to hit the road on your next RV vacation, you can easily remove and store your RV covers until you need them again. If you leave your vehicle in good condition before covering it, you’ll find it in the same good shape when the covers are off. This means that you can spend less time preparing your RV for departure and more time enjoying the scenery. Overall, if you are amid the many millions of people across the country who are joining the ranks of proud and satisfied RV owners, then taking proper care of your recreational vehicle when it’s not in use will ensure that it continues to take you comfortably and safely on travel adventures for many years to come.