Vacations in a recreational vehicle (RV) have several advantages over other kinds of vacations.  RV vacations are convenient and flexible; you have the freedom to go where you want to go at the time that is most suitable for you.  On an RV vacation, you can enjoy the comforts of home as you travel to new places, and you can enjoy more relaxed 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 showed that RV owners are on the road an average of only 26 days each year.  This leaves approximately 339 days when the RV is not in use.  Where is the RV parked when its owners are not using it for a vacation?  While an enclosed garage or storage area is the ideal location to store an RV for extended periods of time, most owners don't have access to such a facility.  Frequently, an RV stands idle on a homeowner's property or at an outdoor RV storage facility.  Sun, moisture, harsh weather, birds, insects, 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 the best shape possible 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 of a strong, but breathable material.  You'll want a material that can endure 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 parts of your RV is vital, too, especially when storing the vehicle during an extended length of time.  RV wheel covers are an easy way to protect your tires from weather damage, and from damage caused by the sun's UV rays.  Also, 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 head out on your next RV vacation, you can easily remove and store your RV covers until they are needed again.  If you leave your vehicle in favorable 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. 

Trey Collier is co-owner of MightyCovers.com, specializing in high quality, durable Custom Covers and Ready-Made Stock Covers to protect practically everything under the sun, including RV Covers.