Vacations in a recreational vehicle (RV) have many advantages over other kinds of vacations. RV vacations are convenient and flexible; 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 while you travel to different destinations, and you can enjoy more quality time with family, including the pets. RVs are also a more affordable vacation option, 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 predicted to increase over the next year or so, 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 commissioned by the RVIA discovered 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 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 over an extended length of time, most owners don't have access to such a facility. More often than not, an RV sits on a homeowner's property or at an outdoor RV storage facility. Moisture, harsh weather, sun exposure, dirt, insects, birds, and other debris can take a heavy and pricey 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 remains 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 5th wheel RVs, travel trailers, truck campers, and folding campers. Be sure to choose 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 constructed of a strong, but breathable material. You'll want a material that can endure harsh weather conditions, but also inhibit moisture build-up, which can develop 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 any length of time. RV wheel covers are an easy way to protect your tires from weather damage, and from damage that the sun's ultraviolet rays can cause. In addition, there are RV covers which protect your 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 for your next RV vacation, you can easily remove and store your RV covers until you need them 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 getting your RV ready for the trip and more time enjoying the scenery. Overall, if you are among the 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 transport you safely and comfortably on road adventures for many years.