Should you think about using a cover for your motorhome?

When not in use, it’s often thought to be a good idea to protect your motorhome from the elements and harsh environments. Many people put a protective cover on their motorhome, for example when it’s in storage to stop it getting dirty or dusty, but should you actually do that? Below, we look at some of the pros and cons of using a cover, so that you can decide for yourself if it’s something you should be doing, or if you are better off without one.

The pros of using a motorhome cover

General protection from the elements

A high-quality cover protects your motorhome from various weather conditions, including rain, snow and UV rays. It can prevent water ingress and protect against sun damage, which can fade the paint and degrade the seals on your motorhome. It might reduce the risk of damp and mould, however there is a con associated with this - see below!

Preventing dirt build-up

Using a cover keeps dust, bird droppings, tree sap and other debris from accumulating on your motorhome, which in turn hopefully reduces the need for frequent cleaning and maintenance.

Pest deterrence

By covering your motorhome, you can deter pests like insects and small animals from making a home in (or on) your vehicle.

Enhanced security 

A covered motorhome is less likely to attract the attention of thieves or vandals, as it isn’t immediately apparent what lies beneath the cover.

Resale value

By protecting the exterior of your motorhome, a cover can help maintain its appearance and structural integrity over time, thus preserving its resale value.

The cons of using a motorhome cover

Initial and ongoing costs

High-quality covers can be expensive, and the investment might seem a little steep, especially if you need to replace the cover periodically due to wear and tear. Also, they need to actually protect the motorhome to be worth it. Some covers protect the roof but not the sides and seals, so is that actually worth it in the long run? Possibly not.

Potential for damage

Poorly fitting or low-quality covers can cause abrasion damage to the motorhome’s paintwork if they flap in the wind. If you choose to use a cover, make sure you fit it correctly and secure the fastenings properly.

Trapped moisture 

An interesting one, this! Linked to the pro we listed above, a cover can provide protection against damp and mould. However, if the cover is too tight and not made from a breathable fabric and the motorhome is not properly ventilated, covers can actually trap moisture underneath, which leads to a build-up of condensation and potentially mould and mildew issues… which kind of defeats the object. Not ideal!

It’s a bit of faff!

Putting on and taking off a cover can be quite time-consuming and physically demanding, particularly for larger motorhomes. This task might require multiple people and can be challenging in windy conditions. When not in use, the cover itself needs to be stored, which can be a hassle if space is limited. There might be an issue with having limited access, as using a cover can restrict you getting in and out of your motorhome. Every time you need to retrieve something or do any maintenance, you potentially have to remove the cover, which can be inconvenient.

So there we have it with the main pros and cons. Deciding whether to use a cover for your motorhome involves weighing up the benefits of protection and longevity against the potential downsides of both inconvenience and also causing yourself additional issues, such as the chance of creating damp. For many motorhome owners, the peace of mind that comes with knowing their vehicle is shielded from the elements and potential external damage makes the investment worthwhile. However, it’s essential to choose a high-quality cover that fits well, and to consider the practical aspects of both using and storing the cover.

Ultimately, the decision comes down to your specific needs, the climate in which you store your motorhome, and how often you use it. By carefully considering the pros and cons, you can make an informed choice that is the best thing for you and your circumstances.