Cover or not to cover.

[Jonp154]

Some people highly recommend purchasing and covering my RV when not in use and for the duration of the winter months to protect the integrity of the unit. However recently I met some techs who told me that the covers can hold in water/mildew which can cause substantial problems. Does anyone have a solid answer?

[rsdata]

yes
plastic tarps will hold in moisture...

provide for significant air gaps between the covering and the roof/sides to allow for air movement

I purchased a tarp canopy and extended the length of the legs with 10' EMT from Home Depot to give me enough height to pull the camper under it... I then staked the canopy down against wind... I usually get about 18 months from a tarp cover.

[Herk7769]

To miss-quote Shakespeare;

To Cover or not to cover; now that is the question.

Good points and bad points each way.

Covered protects decals and prevents gelcoat oxidation and roof dirt.
Downside, roof damage from wear as the wind moved it around; can break off roof drain drip nozzles; very expensive for a "breathable" type (recommended). Can fall off the darn roof putting in on every year.

Uncovered prevents "covered" downside, but sunward side of camper's decals will die an early death. Camper requires washing and waxing more often to preserve decals and prevent gelcoat oxidation. Washing and waxing labor intensive, but way easier to put on.