How To Measure A Travel Trailer For A Cover
You’ve invested in a travel trailer, a true home on wheels that opens up a world of adventure. But when it’s time to park it for the season or even just for a few weeks, protecting that investment becomes paramount. An ill-fitting cover can do more harm than good, flapping in the wind, chafing paint, and offering inadequate protection from the elements. Getting the right size starts with one crucial step: accurate measurement.
This guide will show you exactly how to measure a travel trailer for a cover, ensuring a snug, secure, and protective fit. We’ll cover every essential dimension, from bumper to bumper, and explain how to account for all those critical accessories. By the end, you’ll have the confidence to select a cover that truly extends your RV’s lifespan and keeps it looking great, ready for your next outdoor escapade.
Table of Contents
Why Accurate Measurement Matters for Your RV Cover
Your travel trailer is a significant investment. Protecting its exterior from harsh weather, UV rays, dust, and debris is essential for maintaining its value and extending its lifespan.
Many owners underestimate the importance of precise measurements when buying a cover. A cover that’s too small won’t fit at all, while one that’s too large can become a problem.
An oversized cover can billow in the wind, creating friction points that rub against your trailer’s paint and trim. This chafing can lead to scratches, dents, and accelerated wear on vulnerable areas.
Furthermore, a loose cover allows moisture, dust, and even small critters to get underneath, defeating the purpose of protection. A snug, correct-sized cover minimizes these risks, offering optimal safeguarding.
Essential Tools You’ll Need for Measuring Your Travel Trailer
Before you start, gather a few basic tools. Having these on hand will make the measuring process straightforward and accurate.
- A long, sturdy tape measure: A 25-foot or 30-foot tape measure is usually sufficient. Fiberglass or cloth tapes are flexible but can stretch; a metal tape is more precise.
- A step ladder or small stool: This helps you reach higher points on your trailer, especially the roof or taller sections.
- A notepad and pen: Record your measurements clearly as you go. Double-check them before writing them down.
- A helper (optional but recommended): An extra set of hands makes holding the tape measure steady and reading measurements much easier, especially for longer dimensions.
Ensure your trailer is parked on level ground. This helps prevent skewed measurements due to an uneven stance.
How to Measure a Travel Trailer for a Cover: Step-by-Step Dimensions
To find the perfect cover, you need three primary measurements: length, width, and height. Each requires careful attention to detail.
Measuring the Overall Length
The length measurement is the most critical for your travel trailer cover. Do not rely on the manufacturer’s stated length, as this often refers to the living space, not the total exterior dimensions.
- Start at the very front: Begin your measurement at the furthest point forward. This typically includes the hitch or tongue.
- Extend to the very back: Stretch your tape measure all the way to the furthest point at the rear. This usually includes the spare tire mounted on the bumper or a ladder.
- Measure bumper-to-bumper (and beyond): Measure from the tip of the hitch to the very end of any rear-mounted accessories like ladders or spare tires.
- Record accurately: Note this total length down. This is your trailer’s true “bumper-to-bumper” length for cover purposes.
Do not include the propane tanks in your length measurement if they are located on the tongue and protrude significantly. Most covers are designed to accommodate these or have specific cutouts.
Determining the Body Width
The width measurement is usually more straightforward, but still requires precision.
- Measure the widest part of the main body: Find the widest point of your travel trailer’s main structure. This is typically across the side walls, excluding mirrors or small protrusions.
- Exclude temporary add-ons: Do not include slide-outs that are retracted for travel or storage. The cover should fit over the main body.
- Record your finding: Write down this maximum body width.
Most standard RV covers are designed with a generous width range to accommodate various models. Focus on the core body width.
Calculating the Maximum Height
Height is often overlooked but crucial for a good fit, especially when considering roof-mounted accessories.
- Measure from the ground up: Start your measurement at ground level.
- Extend to the highest fixed point: Measure vertically to the very top of the highest fixed object on your roof. This commonly includes air conditioners, satellite dishes, or roof vents.
- Exclude antennas or non-fixed items: Do not include antennas that can be folded down or items that are easily removed. The cover needs to clear permanent fixtures.
- Note the total height: Record this maximum height.
This height ensures the cover drapes properly without snagging or leaving parts of the trailer exposed.
Accounting for Obstructions and Protrusions
Many travel trailers have external features that can affect how a cover fits. Ignoring these can lead to a damaged cover or an improper fit.
Roof-Mounted Air Conditioners and Vents
These are typically the highest points on your trailer. Ensure your height measurement accounts for them. Covers often have extra material or specialized designs in these areas to prevent tearing.
Ladders and Spare Tires
Rear-mounted ladders and spare tires add to the overall length. Always include these in your total length measurement, as discussed earlier. Some covers have reinforced corners or elastic hems to better accommodate these features.
Awnings (When Retracted)
When measuring the width, ensure your awning is fully retracted. Most covers are designed to fit over a retracted awning without issue. If your awning has a very large, bulky housing, you might need to consider a slightly wider cover or one with a more accommodating design.
Propane Tanks and Battery Boxes
These are usually located on the front tongue. While you generally don’t include them in the length, many travel trailer covers have a “cinch” or elastic front panel designed to go around these features for a snug fit. Confirm the cover you’re buying specifically mentions accommodating the front tongue area.
Always inspect your trailer for any sharp edges or rough spots before installing a cover. Cover these with old towels or foam to prevent tearing.
Choosing the Right Cover Size: Custom vs. Universal Fit
Once you have your precise measurements, you’ll need to decide between a custom-fit cover and a universal-fit option.
Universal-Fit Covers
These are the most common and budget-friendly choice. They come in standard size ranges (e.g., 20-22 feet, 24-26 feet). You will select the size range that comfortably encompasses your measured length, width, and height. Pros: More affordable, readily available, often include features like zippered access panels. Cons: May not be as snug, potential for more wind flap, less tailored look.
When selecting a universal cover, always round up your measurements if you are between sizes. For example, if your trailer is 23 feet, choose a 22-24 foot cover, not a 20-22 foot one.
Custom-Fit Covers
These are designed specifically for your make and model, offering the most precise fit. They are often made to order and can be more expensive. Pros: Superior fit, minimal wind flap, maximum protection, tailored appearance. Cons: Higher cost, longer lead times, less readily available.
Custom covers are an excellent investment for long-term storage or for owners who prioritize optimal protection and aesthetics.
Common Measuring Mistakes to Avoid
Even seasoned adventurers can make simple errors when measuring. Be mindful of these common pitfalls to ensure you get the right cover the first time.
- Relying on manufacturer specs: As mentioned, these rarely include the full exterior length with all accessories. Always measure yourself.
- Forgetting the hitch or ladder: These add significant length. Always measure from the absolute furthest point forward to the absolute furthest point rearward.
- Ignoring roof-mounted items: An air conditioner or satellite dish determines the maximum height the cover needs to clear.
- Measuring with slide-outs extended: Covers are designed for travel trailers with slide-outs retracted. Measure the main body only.
- Using a flimsy tape measure: A metal tape measure provides greater accuracy, especially over long distances.
- Measuring alone: For longer trailers, having a second person helps hold the tape straight and prevents sagging, leading to more accurate results.
Taking a few extra minutes to measure correctly will save you time, money, and frustration in the long run.
Seasonal Storage Tips and Cover Maintenance
Once you’ve successfully figured out how to measure a travel trailer for a cover and purchased the perfect one, proper installation and maintenance are key to its effectiveness and longevity.
Pre-Cover Preparation
Before putting the cover on, clean your travel trailer thoroughly. Dirt, grime, and debris trapped under the cover can scratch the finish. Also, patch any sharp edges or protruding components with soft material to prevent the cover from tearing.
Installing the Cover
Most covers come with clear instructions. It’s often easiest to unroll the cover over the roof, then drape it down the sides. Secure all straps and buckles snugly, but not so tight that they stress the fabric. This prevents wind lofting and ensures a secure fit.
Maintaining Your Cover
Regularly check your cover for tears, especially after strong winds or storms. Small tears can be patched to prevent them from growing larger. Clean your cover periodically according to the manufacturer’s instructions to remove dirt and mildew, which can degrade the material over time.
Proper cover maintenance extends the life of both your cover and your travel trailer.
Frequently Asked Questions About Measuring Travel Trailer Covers
Should I include my propane tanks in the length measurement?
No, generally you should not include propane tanks on the tongue in your length measurement. Most travel trailer covers are designed with a flexible front panel or elastic to accommodate the tongue area, including propane tanks and battery boxes, without needing that extra length in the primary measurement.
What if my travel trailer has a ladder or spare tire on the back?
Always include any rear-mounted accessories like ladders or spare tires in your total length measurement. Measure from the very tip of the hitch to the furthest point on the rear of the trailer, including these items. This ensures the cover fully encloses and protects them.
Do I measure with my slide-outs extended or retracted?
You should always measure your travel trailer with all slide-outs fully retracted. Covers are designed to fit the trailer in its travel or storage configuration, not with slide-outs extended. Measuring with them extended will result in a cover that is far too large and ineffective.
How do I account for the roof air conditioner when measuring height?
Measure the height from the ground to the very top of the highest fixed object on your roof. This nearly always includes the air conditioner, which is typically the tallest component. This ensures the cover has enough vertical clearance to drape over without stressing or tearing.
What’s the difference between a travel trailer cover and an RV cover?
The terms are often used interchangeably, but “RV cover” is a broader category that includes covers for motorhomes, fifth wheels, toy haulers, and travel trailers. A “travel trailer cover” is specifically designed for the towable, non-motorized RV type. The measuring principles are similar across most towable RVs.
Embark on Your Next Adventure with Confidence
Protecting your travel trailer is an investment in its future adventures. By understanding how to measure a travel trailer for a cover accurately, you’re taking a vital step toward ensuring its longevity and maintaining its pristine condition.
Remember, precision in measuring means superior protection from the elements, reducing wear and tear, and keeping your mobile sanctuary ready for the road. Take your time, measure twice, and choose a cover that will stand guard, allowing you to focus on the journey ahead.
Stay safe and stay comfortable out there, knowing your home-away-from-home is well-protected!
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