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How to Choose a Tarp for RV Awning vs RV Cover (2026)
If you own an RV you've likely wrestled with one question: should I use a tarp for quick shade and travel or a heavier cover for months-long storage? The wrong tarp can leak, tear, or trap moisture; the right one keeps your RV protected without fuss. This guide explains how to match tarp type to three common needs — travel, storage, and shade — and reviews five tarp options selected for size range, construction (grommets/hem rope), waterproofing and customer-reported durability. Read on to learn which tarp solves your specific RV problem and why.
Quick Answer
For most RV owners the Trademark Supplies 20 Mil 20' x 40' tarp (ASIN B07GZXMYSQ) is the best all-around choice: its heavier 20 mil construction and reinforced hems work well for both storage protection and occasional awning use. For tight budgets choose the Trademark Supplies 40X60 (ASIN B004DDWZQM).
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Quick Comparison
Select 2-3 products to compare side-by-side
| Compare | Product | HandleSmith Score | Price Tier | Key Feature | Best For | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
20 Mil 20' x 40' Tarp
|
Mid-Range | 20 mil heavy-duty construction | Long-term storage, heavy-duty cover | Check Price | ||
30x50 Silver Tarp
|
Mid-Range | Large size with hem rope | Versatile use: travel & medium-term cover | Check Price | ||
40x60 Silver Tarp
|
Budget | Big coverage at low cost | Budget storage cover or temporary shade | Check Price | ||
10 Mil 100' x 100' Tarp
|
Premium | Massive 100' x 100' coverage | Commercial-scale coverage, event awnings | Check Price | ||
10 Mil 50' x 100' Tarp
|
Premium | Large, lightweight coverage | Seasonal shade or group coverings | Check Price |
1. Large Waterproof Tarp - Heavy Duty 20 Mil Thick Poly Tarpaulin Ideal for Canopy Tents, Boats, RV or Pool Covers - Multipurpose Protective Tarps with Grommets for Indoor and Outdoor Use | 20' x 40'
The 20 mil 20' x 40' tarp is the most robust option here, built for prolonged coverage and tougher weather. Its thicker material and reinforced hem rope reduce tearing and leakage, making it a good solution for winter storage and stationary RV covers where durability and waterproofing matter most.
Key Specs
- Size: 20' x 40'
- Thickness: 20 mil
- Grommets: rust-proof, spaced ~36"
- Features: UV resistant, waterproof, hem rope reinforcement
Pros
- Thicker 20 mil material resists tears better
- Reinforced hem and grommets improve tie-down security
- Good waterproof and UV protection for long storage
Cons
- Heavier and less convenient for frequent travel use
- May trap moisture under cover if not vented properly
Best For: Long-term storage, heavy-duty cover
Check Latest Price on Amazon2. Trademark Supplies 30X50 Silver Heavy Duty Tarp Tarpaulin Canopy Tent, Boat. RV or Pool Cover
This 30x50 silver tarp balances manoeuvrability with protection: it’s large enough to cover awnings or an RV roof for short trips and strong enough for seasonal shelter. The hem rope and grommets provide secure tie-down points, which helps prevent wind-driven tearing while travelling or when used as an awning extension.
Key Specs
- Size: 30' x 50'
- Material: UV-treated waterproof poly
- Hem rope for added rip resistance
- Grommet spacing: approximately every 36"
Pros
- Large coverage useful for awnings and partial covers
- Good balance of weight and protection for travel
- Generally praised for value and waterproofing
Cons
- Thickness and durability reported inconsistently by users
- Large size can be bulky to store when not in use
Best For: Versatile use: travel & medium-term cover
Check Latest Price on Amazon3. Trademark Supplies 40X60 Silver Tarp Tarpaulin Canopy Tent, Boat. RV Or Pool Cover
The 40x60 tarp is the best budget pick for owners who need wide coverage without a premium price. It solves the problem of covering large sections of an RV or creating a temporary shade or work area, but buyers should mind the mixed reports on thickness and edge durability for long-term use.
Key Specs
- Size: 40' x 60'
- Material: UV and mildew resistant poly
- Grommets: rust-proof, hem rope reinforced
- Use: multipurpose indoor/outdoor cover
Pros
- Large footprint covers most RVs or creates big shade
- Excellent value for the size
- Waterproof and mildew resistant in typical conditions
Cons
- Durability and thickness can be inconsistent
- Edges may tear under heavy wind if not tightly secured
Best For: Budget storage cover or temporary shade
Check Latest Price on Amazon4. Large Waterproof Tarp - Heavy Duty 10 Mil Thick Poly Tarpaulin Ideal for Canopy Tents, Boats, RV or Pool Covers - Multipurpose Protective Tarps with Grommets for Indoor and Outdoor Use | 100' x 100'
If you need maximum coverage — for storage yards, large workshop shelters or an extensive shade canopy — the 100' x 100' tarp provides that scale. Its 10 mil build is lighter per area than the 20 mil option, so it's best for static shade or covering large objects where frequent handling isn't required.
Key Specs
- Size: 100' x 100'
- Thickness: 10 mil poly
- Grommets with reinforced hems
- Features: UV treated, waterproof, mildew resistant
Pros
- Covers very large areas or multiple vehicles
- Reinforced hems and grommets for secure anchoring
- Good choice for shade structures and event use
Cons
- 10 mil thickness is lighter—less ideal for heavy-duty storage
- Hard to handle alone due to sheer size
Best For: Commercial-scale coverage, event awnings
Check Latest Price on Amazon5. Large Waterproof Tarp - Heavy Duty 10 Mil Thick Poly Tarpaulin Ideal for Canopy Tents, Boats, RV or Pool Covers - Multipurpose Protective Tarps with Grommets for Indoor and Outdoor Use | 50' x 100'
The 50' x 100' tarp is a premium option for large-area shade or covering multiple units. It uses 10 mil poly to keep weight manageable. For RV owners this is best when you need to cover decks or create a shaded common area rather than as a snug long-term RV cover.
Key Specs
- Size: 50' x 100'
- Thickness: 10 mil
- UV and mildew resistant poly
- Hem rope and rust-proof grommets
Pros
- Large coverage with manageable weight
- Good for event shade and temporary shelter
- Waterproof and UV-treated
Cons
- Not as thick for long-term storage protection
- Can be bulky to set up without help
Best For: Seasonal shade or group coverings
Check Latest Price on AmazonWhich One Should You Choose?
If you want the most durable cover for long-term storage → Trademark Supplies 20 Mil 20' x 40' (ASIN B07GZXMYSQ). If budget is tight and you need large coverage for occasional use → Trademark Supplies 40X60 Silver Tarp (ASIN B004DDWZQM). If you need maximum coverage for shade or event work → 100' x 100' 10 mil option (ASIN B016J9XRQ4). If you need a balance of size and portability for travel or awning extension → Trademark Supplies 30X50 (ASIN B004DDWZOO). For large, manageable shade areas choose the 50' x 100' premium tarp (ASIN B016LE8UL4).
Best for Specific Scenarios
- Weekender travel/awning: Trademark Supplies 30X50 (B004DDWZOO) because it balances portability with wide coverage and secure grommets for tie-downs.
- Winter storage: 20 Mil 20' x 40' (B07GZXMYSQ) because thicker 20 mil material and reinforced hems resist tears and provide reliable waterproofing.
- Large shade canopy: 100' x 100' (B016J9XRQ4) because the massive footprint covers large seating or work areas without seams.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the same tarp for RV travel and long-term storage?
You can, but it's a compromise. A lightweight 10–12 mil tarp is easier to handle on the road but may not hold up for months of UV exposure or snow. For long-term storage pick thicker material (15–20+ mil) and plan for ventilation to prevent trapped moisture.
What tarp thickness do I need for wind and rain while traveling?
For travel and regular handling choose 8–12 mil with reinforced hems and closely spaced grommets; this gives a good balance of weight and wind resistance. If you frequently encounter high winds or rough conditions, a heavier 12–20 mil tarp with hem rope is safer.
How do I avoid moisture and mildew under a tarp in storage?
Avoid sealing the tarp completely to allow airflow—install vents, lift one side slightly, or use breathable RV-specific covers. Periodically check under the tarp, and ensure the RV is dry and cleaned before covering to reduce trapped moisture and mildew.
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Last updated: July 07, 2026
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