RV cover vs canvas canopy

[soohma]

I find that my van has a couple (ha!) of leaks that I need to take care of and since it's a '97, I'm thinking it might be wise to protect it from the elements (in case I miss a leak or two). I've researched rv covers, which will run about $165, or an open canopy, which will be about $200, I think.

Is there a need to have the canopy closed, or will an open one do, do you all think. And are there benefits to one over the other? Do the covers allow enough 'breathing' so there's no moisture buildup? They say so on the sites, but just thought I'd check.

[Ron J. Moore]

First thing I wonder is where your located - if it is snow country, I would want a RV Cover; if not in that kind of environment - either would do. As for the cover with poles and canvas, easy to put up, and you can drive under at will...not so with the RV Cover. I have had covers and never experienced any type of moisture problem. You mention you have some leaks to take care of - with the pole and canvas cover you can work out there during the heat or rain without the top being exposed. I have a neighbor whom I helped put up his stand for his boat...been there a couple of years now, he moves the boat out on weekends. Hope this helps.

[soohma]

Thanks for the reply. I'm in very rainy country with not much snow, so I guess either will do.

[markopolo]

I used both for my Roadtrek.

Lots of photos on this link: http://classbforum.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=54

For me:

1. I used the shelter during my camping season.
2. I used the cover in the winter.

At first I only had a cover. I had to pay attention to weather forecasts for rain so that when I planned to travel I didn't have to take off (and store) a wet cover!

I'd pick the shelter over a cover - much easier