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Caravan Covers - Help Choosing the Right One

Article by Steve Smith - Caravans Plus
Read Time: 10 mins

One of the easiest ways to protect your caravan from the elements is with a high quality cover. For many people a caravan is a home away from home or a great escape. It is one of your largest assets and you should protect your investment.

While we like to travel and holiday as much as possible, the sad fact is that your caravan can sit exposed to all types of harsh weather for extended periods causing premature ageing or major damage. You just need to look at the earlier covers which could break down in as little as a year to see how extreme the Australian climate can be.

While a caravan cover will not last forever, the warranty and price should give an idea of how long they will last in the weather. During that time they take damage that would otherwise be going to the rubbers, plastic and paint on your RV. They are much cheaper than a shed, and for most people they are cheaper than the wear and tear on an unprotected van.

With the newer caravan covers being produced by industry leaders like Camec and ADCO there is no shortage of premium covers for sale. With 3 year warranties common across the main ranges, your caravan will stay in better condition for your next camping adventure - rain, hail or shine.

Key features across the complete range of camper trailer, pop-top, and motorhome covers include a heavy duty roof section, reinforced stitching and nylon fitting straps. Optional tyre guards are also available for complete protection.

Measure the caravan body first, then follow the fitting instructions for the cover brand you are buying. Camec covers are sized to the caravan body: exclude rear bumpers and spare wheels, and do not pull the cover over a spare wheel, gas bottles or a front storage box. Doing so can leave excess fabric that flaps and rubs. Fit the cover firmly enough to limit movement without stretching the fabric or seams.


1. How To Measure Caravan Covers

Choose the cover style that matches your van type. The exception is a pop-top stored with the roof raised, where a full caravan cover may be the better fit. Your caravan brand is less important than its measured body size, but the cover brand's fitting instructions matter because rear-accessory rules can differ.

Each style cover comes in different lengths. The width and height are fairly standard between all brands, but roof gear and rear accessories can affect how comfortably the cover fits.

The image below shows how to measure your van.

How to measure caravan body length for a caravan cover
How to measure for a caravan cover.

Caravans are usually still measured in feet. Each cover accepts a range of body lengths, commonly 2 feet, such as 14ft - 16ft and 16ft - 18ft. Measure the caravan body as shown, then check the manufacturer's size chart and instructions for awnings, roof accessories and rear fittings. Do not automatically add a bumper or spare wheel to the Camec body measurement.

If your van is close to the next size

Choose the larger size if the measured caravan body is near the top of the stated range, subject to the cover manufacturer's instructions. For Camec covers, exclude rear bumpers and spare wheels from the body measurement and cover them separately if needed. A cover that is too small strains seams, zips and corners; one that is too loose can flap, rub and wear faster, so use the straps to keep it firm.

Roof fittings, aerials, hatches and air conditioners

Most covers can sit over normal caravan roof fittings such as hatches, roof vents, aerials, solar panels and air conditioners, provided there are no sharp edges and the cover is not stretched tight over them. Fold aerials down where possible, close all hatches and vents, and pad any sharp or high-wear points before fitting the cover.

Do not run a roof air conditioner while the cover is fitted. If the van is stored with solar charging connected, check that the cover will block the solar panel unless the panel is left uncovered or a separate portable panel is used.

Are the covers waterproof?

Yes and no. The top surface is usually made of a waterproof or highly water resistant fabric and the sides are water resistant. None of the stitching is seam sealed. The covers need to be breathable because the bottom is open and trapped water or steam needs to be able to escape. Covers are not intended to be a fix for a leaky roof.

Do they scratch windows?

Plastic and acrylic windows can get minor abrasion from rubbing or flapping. Cleaning your windows before storage will help. A snug fit to prevent flapping is the best solution, and adjustable straps are included in the brands we sell. Some very concerned owners have been known to cover their windows with cling wrap.


2. ADCO Caravan Covers

ADCO has a proven history of manufacturing highly durable products, and are the number 1 producer of RV covers in the American market. In recent years they have teamed up with leading Australian caravan supplier Coast RV to create premium caravan covers specifically for the Australian climate.

Made with a four layer Olefin HD top panel for superior durability, the full range of ADCO Covers come with a 3 year warranty. Most caravans are left unused and exposed through the harsh winter leading to unnecessary ageing. If you have been thinking about protecting your investment or upgrading, now is the time.

ADCO Olefin HD Caravan Cover - 6.12-6.73m (20-22ft)

ADCO Olefin HD Caravan Cover - 6.12-6.73m (20-22ft)

1 In Stock Now.5/5 from 1 review$610.50$540
$610.50
$540
View

Customer Reviews:

5 Stars - The cover is very well made, and the materials used seem to be good quality. I did have trouble fitting it though. The instructions are very vague, and I gave up on them. Nevertheless, I would happily recommend buying one. - Robert from VIC

5 Stars - Top quality van cover, would be the best cover that I have had - Richard from NSW


3. Camec Caravan Covers

Camec caravan covers continue to be one of the most popular choices for Australian conditions, offering a strong balance of durability, fit and value. With both standard and premium ranges now available, they are our recommended option for most caravan owners looking for reliable long term protection.

The standard Camec covers are a proven all-rounder. They feature a tough 300D water resistant UV 50+ roof panel, breathable weather resistant side panels, reinforced double stitched corners, a heavy duty skirt, ventilation flaps, zippered side access and nylon fitting straps. They are lightweight, easy to handle and backed by a 3 year warranty.

The Camec Premium range builds on this with a more heavy duty construction and additional features. These covers use a waterproof roof section combined with 4-layer breathable side panels for improved weather protection. Roll-up zippered sides allow easier access to your van while covered, and reinforced reflective corners, ventilation flaps and upgraded strap systems improve durability and visibility. The Premium range is also backed by a 4 year warranty.

Both ranges are designed to protect against sun, rain, dust, bird droppings and general weather damage. For most customers, the choice comes down to whether you want a lighter, great value option or a more heavy duty cover with added features and longer warranty.

Camec Caravan Cover - 6-6.6m (20-22ft)

Camec Caravan Cover - 6-6.6m (20-22ft)

2 In Stock Now.4.7/5 from 7 reviews$372.60$285
$372.60
$285
View
Camec Premium Caravan Cover - 6-6.6m (20-22ft)

Camec Premium Caravan Cover - 6-6.6m (20-22ft)

5/5 from 1 review$472.90$350
$472.90
$350
View

Customer Reviews:

5 Stars - excellent strong top quality cover and the added extras not like the last one purchased - Julie from NSW

5 Stars - Spot on - good fit and easy to install. Thanks!!! - Howard from QLD


4. Premier Platinum Caravan Covers

The Premier Platinum range offers another strong option for caravan owners, particularly for those wanting extra access and easier installation. These covers feature a heavy duty 300D UV50+ roof panel combined with 4-layer breathable side and end panels for protection from sun, rain and dust.

A key difference with the Premier Platinum range is the additional access points. Rear zip panels and large side zip openings allow you to get into your van without removing the cover, while built-in pole pockets can make fitting and removal easier on larger caravans.

Other features include air vents, front and rear tensioning systems, quick connect buckles, reinforced corners, a storage bag and repair patch. For customers comparing features across the premium end of the range, Premier Platinum is a well-equipped alternative.

Premier Platinum Caravan Cover - 6-6.6m (20-22ft)

Premier Platinum Caravan Cover - 6-6.6m (20-22ft)

1 In Stock Now.$549$500
$549
$500
View

5. Pop Top Covers

There is now a broad choice of Pop Top Covers. Camec, Premier Platinum and ADCO all offer solid options depending on the level of protection and features you are after.

Camec remains our most popular option, with both standard and premium ranges available. ADCO offers a heavier duty premium alternative, while Premier Platinum adds extra access features like rear zip openings and fitting pockets.

Camec Pop-Top Cover - 4.3-4.8m (14-16ft)

Camec Pop-Top Cover - 4.3-4.8m (14-16ft)

3 In Stock Now.5/5 from 1 review$297$230
$297
$230
View
Camec Premium Pop-Top Cover - 4.3-4.8m (14-16ft)

Camec Premium Pop-Top Cover - 4.3-4.8m (14-16ft)

$367.40$275
$367.40
$275
View
Premier Platinum Pop-Top Cover - 4.3-4.8m (14-16ft)

Premier Platinum Pop-Top Cover - 4.3-4.8m (14-16ft)

$410
$410
View
ADCO Olefin HD Pop-Top Cover - 4.28-4.89m (14-16ft)

ADCO Olefin HD Pop-Top Cover - 4.28-4.89m (14-16ft)

1 In Stock Now.$489.80$430
$489.80
$430
View

6. Camper Trailer Covers

There is now also a full range of Camper Trailer Covers. As with caravan and pop top covers, the main differences come down to fabric weight, reinforcement and overall features across the brands.

Camec is a popular choice for its balance of durability and value, while ADCO and Premier Platinum offer heavier duty materials and additional access features.

Camec Camper Trailer Cover - 4.3-4.8m (14-16ft)

Camec Camper Trailer Cover - 4.3-4.8m (14-16ft)

3 In Stock Now.5/5 from 1 review$254.60$200
$254.60
$200
View
Premier Platinum Camper Trailer Cover - 4.3-4.8m (14-16ft)

Premier Platinum Camper Trailer Cover - 4.3-4.8m (14-16ft)

1 In Stock Now.$305
$305
View
ADCO Olefin HD Camper Trailer Cover - 4.28-4.89m (14-16ft)

ADCO Olefin HD Camper Trailer Cover - 4.28-4.89m (14-16ft)

$405.70$360
$405.70
$360
View

7. Motorhome Covers

Coast To Coast also import the ADCO range of Motorhome Covers. They come with a three year warranty to provide a more durable alternative. With a four layer Olefin HD top panel it is far more durable than similar covers in this price bracket. The top material also is wide enough to go beyond the top and over the edge where most wear occurs.

ADCO Olefin HD Class C Motorhome Cover - 7.01-7.92m (23-26ft)

ADCO Olefin HD Class C Motorhome Cover - 7.01-7.92m (23-26ft)

$724.60$630
$724.60
$630
View

8. How To Fit A Caravan Cover

Before starting it is important that your caravan is clean and dry, as dirty surfaces will have an abrasive effect on both your caravan and the cover. Make sure you have removed or stowed any sharp objects like swing down legs, antennas or steps. Remember to make sure all windows and roof vents are closed.

Locate the front and rear of the cover; the front generally has the logo on it. The easiest way is with the help of another person and a pair of tent poles. Use the spigot ends of the tent pole and thread them through the eyelets at the front of the cover. Starting at the rear of the caravan, raise the cover over the caravan. Slowly walk to the front of the van, making sure the cover is flowing smoothly over the van and not getting caught on any protrusions.

Once you have reached the front, unthread the tent poles and pull the sides of the cover down to completely cover the caravan. With the hard part done, you now simply secure the cover using the straps under the van and across the front and rear.

You want the cover to be firm enough to limit excess fabric movement, but not over tight as this can cause the fabric to tear. If the cover is difficult to handle or the van is tall, use two people and avoid climbing on the caravan roof.

How to fit a caravan cover over a caravan
How to fit a caravan cover.

There are also full canvas covers that can be custom made, however Caravans Plus does not supply these.

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