How To Measure A Travel Trailer For A Cover

How to Measure Your Travel Trailer for a Cover: A Comprehensive Guide

Buying a travel trailer cover can be tricky if you don't know the exact dimensions of your RV. An ill-fitting cover won't protect your investment adequately, leaving it vulnerable to the elements. This guide will walk you through the process of accurately measuring your travel trailer to ensure a perfect fit for your new cover. Knowing how to measure your travel trailer properly is crucial for protecting your investment and ensuring a snug, weatherproof fit.

Essential Tools for Accurate Measurement

Before you begin, gather these essential tools:

• Measuring Tape: A long, flexible measuring tape (at least 25 feet) is crucial for accurate measurements. A retractable tape measure is ideal for ease of use.
• Pen and Paper: Jot down your measurements as you go to avoid confusion.
• Assistant: Having someone to help you hold the tape measure can significantly improve accuracy and speed up the process.

Step-by-Step Measurement Guide

Follow these steps to measure your travel trailer accurately:

1. Length:

• Start at the front: Begin measuring from the furthest point at the front of your travel trailer, including any hitch or tongue.
• Measure to the rear: Extend the tape measure to the furthest point at the rear, including any spare tire mounts or other rear-end features.
• Record your length: Note this measurement down as your "Overall Length". This is the most critical dimension for selecting a cover.

2. Width:

• Measure at the widest point: Find the widest part of your travel trailer's body. This is usually at the base, but check carefully for any extended features like awnings or side mirrors that could increase the width.
• Record your width: Note this measurement down as your "Overall Width".

3. Height:

• Measure from the ground: Using the same starting point, measure from the ground to the highest point of your travel trailer's roof. This often includes antennas, air conditioners, or vents.
• Consider clearance: Take into account any added height from features like your satellite dish or air conditioner unit.
• Record your height: Note this measurement down as your "Overall Height".

4. Wheel Well Measurement (Important!):

• Measure each wheel well: Measure the diameter and depth of each wheel well. This helps ensure your cover has enough clearance to accommodate the wheels. Many covers are designed with specific openings or extra material for wheel wells, so this measurement is crucial for determining compatibility.
• Record wheel well information: Write down the diameter and depth of each wheel well (if they differ).

5. Additional Considerations:

• Awnings and other features: Note the presence and dimensions of any awnings, ladders, or other external features which might impact the fit of the cover. Some covers are designed to accommodate these, while others may require modifications or specific considerations.
• Photography: Take photos of your trailer from multiple angles. This helps you visualize the shape and features during the cover selection process. This is particularly useful for more uniquely shaped trailers.

Selecting Your Travel Trailer Cover

Once you have all your measurements, use them to find a travel trailer cover that perfectly fits your RV. Many online retailers allow you to filter options by size to help narrow down your choices. Remember to double-check the manufacturer’s specifications for their covers to ensure the measurements align with your trailer. Pay close attention to how they handle wheel wells and other features.

By following these steps and recording accurate measurements, you can confidently select a travel trailer cover that provides optimal protection for your RV. Remember a well-fitting cover is essential for protecting your investment from the elements.