Finding The Perfect Fit: Measuring Your Camper For A Cover

When it comes to finding the right cover for your camper, accurate measurements are key. While it may seem like a nuisance to get out the tape measure, it's important to remember that this guarantees the perfect fit for your recreational vehicle. Getting the right size first time saves you the hassle of returns and repacking, and it also ensures your camper is protected from the elements.

The best way to measure your camper for a cover is to start by measuring the two longest points of the RV, including any bumpers, ladders, and spare tires. Exclude the hitch and tongue. Next, measure the height, starting from the top line of the camper roof and ending at the exterior frame, including any roof-mounted accessories. Finally, measure the width of your camper from side to side at the widest point, excluding mirrors and awnings.

Now you're ready to choose the right cover for your camper!

Measure the length of the camper

Measuring the length of your camper is a crucial step in ensuring your cover fits like a glove. Here are some detailed instructions to guide you through the process:

Firstly, it's important to note that the method of measurement depends on the style of your camper or RV. For Class A, B, or C motorhomes, you'll measure from the rear bumper to the front bumper, excluding any attached ladders. For trailers, measure from the rear bumper to the ball joint hitch at the very front. Pop-up trailers are measured differently since they expand in size; you'll only measure the box size, which typically comes in sizes of 8, 10, 12, or 14 feet. If you own a 5th-wheel camper, the measurement is taken from the back bumper to the centre of the kingpin at the front. Lastly, for teardrop trailers, you'll measure the cabin size from the back of the cabin to the front, excluding the tongue.

When measuring the length of your camper for a cover, the process is a little different. You'll want to measure from bumper to bumper, and this time, include any ladders or spare tires that extend the length of the motorhome. For trailers and teardrops, simply measure the length of the body, including any additional storage attached to the front, but excluding propane tanks. If you have a 5th-wheel camper, the measurement starts from the rear bumper, spare wheel, or ladder, and goes to the very front of the camper.

It's worth noting that the RV industry lacks standardised measuring practices, so it's always best to take the measurements yourself. Additionally, when measuring for a trailer cover, start from the front of the trailer box, not the tongue, and measure to the rear, including any attachments. This ensures you get an accurate sense of the space you're covering.

Now that you know how to measure the length of your camper, you can confidently purchase a cover that fits securely, protecting your camper from the elements.

Measure the height of the camper

Measuring the height of your camper is a crucial step in ensuring you get the right cover size. Here are some detailed instructions to help you measure the height accurately:

Firstly, it is important to note that the height measurement typically refers to the height of the camper's body or sidewalls. Stand at one side of the camper and measure from the top of the roofline to the outside frame. Do not include ground clearance in your measurement. Any accessories, vents, A/C units, or other items mounted on the roof should also be excluded from the height measurement. Make sure to measure the entire frame from top to bottom.

If you have a Class B van, you will need to include the bubble height in your measurement. Measure from the very top of the van to the natural roofline.

For pop-up trailers, the measurement is a bit different. Measure the height of the box when it is expanded. This will typically be 8, 10, 12, or 14 feet.

Additionally, if you have an air conditioner or other items protruding from the roof, it is recommended to take two height measurements: one including these items and one excluding them. This will ensure that you get a cover that fits snugly while also accommodating any protruding items.

Finally, it is worth noting that the height of your camper may vary at different points. For example, a fifth-wheel camper will have more headroom in the living area than over the truck's bed. Therefore, take measurements at multiple points to get an accurate sense of the camper's height.

Measure the width of the camper

Measuring the width of your camper is a crucial step in ensuring you get the right cover for your RV. Here is a detailed guide to help you through the process:

Firstly, it is important to note that you should always physically measure your camper, even if you know the make and model. This is because manufacturer specifications may differ from the actual dimensions of your vehicle. By taking measurements yourself, you can ensure an accurate fit for your cover, which is essential for adequate protection.

Now, to measure the width of your camper, follow these steps:

• Stand at the front of your RV, facing the side of the vehicle.
• Measure from side to side, at the widest point of the camper.
• Do not include mirrors or awnings in your measurement. These are typically excluded from width calculations and are not factored into cover sizing.
• Make sure to push in or fold in any mirrors that stick out. Most covers are designed to accommodate these features, with enough fabric to cover them.
• Your width measurement should be from the body of the camper, not including any attachments.

By taking accurate width measurements, you can be confident that your cover will fit snugly and securely, providing optimal protection for your RV. Remember, it is always better to have a cover that is slightly loose rather than too tight, as this can cause tearing and ripping.

Following these steps will ensure you have the correct width measurements for your camper, allowing you to choose a cover that fits like a glove!

Include any additions like ladders and spare tires

When measuring your camper for a cover, it's important to include any additions or extensions such as ladders and spare tires. These can often be overlooked, but they can significantly impact the fit of your cover.

Firstly, when measuring the length of your camper, be sure to include any ladders or spare tires attached to the rear. Measure from the front of the trailer box to the farthest edge of any attachments at the rear. This will ensure that your cover is long enough to accommodate these additions.

Secondly, when measuring the height, pay attention to any ladders or spare tires that may extend above the roofline. Measure from the top of the roofline down to the outside frame, excluding any ground clearance. This will give you an accurate height measurement that takes into account any additions.

Additionally, it is worth noting that you should exclude trailer hitches, tongues, propane tanks, awnings, and mirrors from your measurements. These are typically not covered and should not be included when determining the size of your camper cover.

By taking these measurements into account, you can ensure that your camper cover fits securely and provides adequate protection from the elements. A well-fitting cover will extend its lifetime by reducing wear and tear and providing maximum protection for your camper.

Exclude the hitch and front tongue jack

When measuring your RV for a cover, you want to measure from the front of the trailer box to the rear, including anything that is attached to the rear. This will include a spare or a ladder at the farthest edge at the rear of the trailer.

When measuring the length of your RV, it is important to exclude the hitch and front tongue jack. The length is measured from the longest point at the front of the RV to the rear, including bumpers, the spare tire, and the ladder. However, hitches and tongues should not be included in this measurement.

For a fifth-wheel trailer, measure from the rear, including the bumper, spare tire, and ladder, to the furthest point on the nose of the trailer coach. Again, exclude the hitch and tongue.

For a folding popup camper, measure from the longest two points from the front to the rear, including the spare tire and ladder, but exclude the hitch and tongue.

The same measurements apply to other types of campers and trailers, such as travel trailers and teardrop trailers.

By excluding the hitch and front tongue jack, you ensure that you get an accurate measurement for the length of your RV, camper, or trailer. This accurate measurement is crucial for selecting a cover that fits properly and provides adequate protection from the elements.

Frequently asked questions