Let’s all agree—owning a Class A motorhome is awesome. It’s like having a luxury apartment on wheels. But protecting that big, beautiful beast when it’s parked? That’s the hard part.
You might think throwing on one of those oversized Class A motorhome covers is enough to keep it safe from the weather, sun, or bird droppings. But most covers? They fail. Big time. And they can end up doing more harm than good.
So what’s the problem with these covers? And more importantly, what should you be using instead?
Why Are You Even Using a Cover?
Before we dive into the problems, let’s look at why people cover their motorhomes in the first place:
- To protect the paint from UV damage
- To stop rain and moisture from creeping in
- To keep leaves, dust, and junk off the roof
- To prevent bird droppings from destroying your roof sealant
The idea makes sense. A cover sounds like a smart investment until you see one fail. Which happens a lot more than you’d think.
1. Cheap Fabric = Future Regret
Let’s start with the biggest issue: low-quality materials.
Most low-cost class A RV covers are made from thin, basic fabric that breaks down fast in the sun and wind. These aren’t made for real-life weather—they’re made to hit a price point. A gusty day or two, and suddenly you’re staring at ripped seams, flapping panels, and exposed sides.
Here’s what happens next:
- Sunlight starts fading your paint and cooking your roof
- Water seeps through little tears, leading to mold or rot
- Flapping fabric scuffs your paint or scratches your windshield
That cheap cover just became a very expensive mistake.
2. Bad Fit = Bad Protection
Let’s say you went fancy and got a “universal” Class A cover. That sounds solid, right? Except there’s a problem: “universal” doesn’t mean it actually fits.
Most universal RV covers are oversized. Too loose. Too baggy. You end up with:
- Pockets that collect water and sag like a wet towel
- Fabric that bunches and damages your paint job
- Air getting under the cover, turning it into a big sail
If your cover flaps like a flag in the wind, it’s not protecting your motorhome—it’s damaging it.
3. Moisture Gets Trapped Inside
Covers are supposed to keep rain out. But if they’re not breathable, they do the opposite—they trap moisture inside.
And when moisture gets trapped, things get nasty:
- Mold and mildew start creeping in
- Condensation builds up under the roof
- You open your RV after a season, and it smells like a swamp
4. They’re too Complicated to Put On
Let’s talk about something no one wants to admit: putting on one of these giant covers is a pain.
Many covers are bulky and don’t include clear markings for front or rear alignment, so it’s easy to start installing it backward or unevenly. And if you can’t get the cover properly centered or tightly secured, it may sag in certain areas, collect water, or flap in the wind—all of which can lead to damage over time.
5. They Don’t Handle Wind Well
Wind is the silent enemy of most Class A RV covers.
Even if your cover starts strong, constant gusts will wear it down. Stitching comes undone. Grommets tear loose. And then you wake up one morning to find your “protective” cover wrapped around a tree 100 feet away.
If you live somewhere windy—think desert, plains, or even coastal areas—this is a deal-breaker.
So, What Should You Use Instead?
Okay, let’s get to the solution. What actually works?
If you’re serious about protecting your Class A motorhome, here’s what to look for:
1. Custom-Fit Covers Made for Your Exact Model
Forget the “one size fits most” thing. You want a cover that fits your motorhome like a glove.
Look for custom or semi-custom Class A motorhome covers that are made to match your exact length, height, and mirror configuration. A snug fit = less flapping, fewer gaps, and way better protection.
2. Multi-Layer Breathable Materials
Good covers don’t just block water—they breathe.
You want a cover made from multiple layers: a tough water-resistant outer shell, a breathable middle layer that lets condensation escape, and a soft inner lining that won’t scratch your finish.
If you find a cover that brags about being UV-resistant, waterproof, AND breathable? Buy it!
3. Reinforced Corners and Strong Stitching
Pay close attention to stress points—corners, mirrors, and antenna areas. These spots tend to wear out first, so you want extra reinforcement and solid stitching there.
Double or even triple-stitched seams are a must. And if your cover includes adjustable straps or buckles that keep it in place? Even better.
4. Zippered Panels for Easy Access
You know what’s annoying? Taking the whole cover off just to grab something from your rig.
Good class A RV covers come with zippered access panels so you can get into your door, storage bays, or power hookups without wrestling with the whole thing. It’s a small thing that brings a lot of convenience.
5. Wind-Proof Design (Straps, Vents, and Elastic)
To keep wind from turning your cover into a parachute, look for:
- Built-in vents that let air pass through without ballooning
- Tension panels and buckles that hold the cover tight
- Elastic hems that hug the front and back of the rig
Basically, your cover should stay put—even in 30 mph winds.
Final Thoughts
Look, we get it. A cover is an extra expense. And if you’ve just spent some serious cash on your RV, it’s tempting to grab the cheapest option on Amazon and call it good.
But here’s the deal: cheap covers usually fail within a year. Then you’re buying another one. And another. Not to mention the damage they can cause in the meantime.
High-quality RV covers for Class A motorhomes might cost more up front, but they actually save you money in the long run. Less maintenance. Less damage. Fewer headaches.
And if you’re storing your rig for the winter or long-term? A good cover is absolutely essential.So don’t settle. Protect your investment with something that actually works.
Your future self (and your motorhome) will thank you.
