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An RV Spare Tire Cover: Protection & Personality

An RV Spare Tire Cover: Protection & Personality

If you carry a spare tire on your rig, you need an RV spare tire cover. Boring? Maybe. Then again… maybe not!

Today we’re looking into why it’s important to have a cover for your RV’s spare tire. And while we’re at it, we’ll also take a look at how your RV’s spare tire cover can be a blank slate that offers a great way to express yourself!

Do I Need an RV Spare Tire Cover?

If you’ve got a spare tire that isn’t tucked safely into an inside space somewhere, then you need a cover for it.

It’s no secret that we take very good care of our RV tires. Not only are they incredibly expensive to replace, but they’re literally what carries our home (and us) safely down the road.

In addition to our post on RV tire safety tips, we’ve focused many blog posts on related topics like tire age, care, and replacement, tire dry rot, and the reasons why RV tires blow out.

We’ve even dedicated an entire post to the importance of RV tire covers and why we love our new ones so much.

But it’s easy to forget the spare when thinking about RV tire care.

Many of them hang on an RV spare tire mount in the back or front of the rig. This goes for all classes of RVs including travel trailers. It’s also true of van campers and other vehicles.

And since they’re not rolling at ground level where we naturally check ’em out on a regular basis, it’s easy to forget a spare tire is there……..until we need it!

The problem is if you neglect your rig’s spare tire it may not be in any condition to get you out of a jam when you actually need it.

So, let’s take a look at the main reasons why covering a spare tire is so important, and then we’ll show you how inexpensive it is to protect that important piece of gear, and how you can personalize it!

Sun Exposure

Sun exposure ages tires prematurely.

An uncovered spare RV tire that’s exposed to UV rays day after day is bound to suffer premature drying, cracking, and the overall breakdown of the rubber.

This is the #1 reason why you want to invest in a cover for your rig’s spare tire.

You can buy a perfectly fine spare tire cover for around 20 bucks… or a bit more, depending on how fancy you want to get.

On the other hand, RV tires can be very expensive to replace.

That alone makes an RV spare tire cover a no-brainer.

Other Weather Exposure

Leaving your RV’s spare tire exposed to UV rays from the sun may be the biggest culprit in premature aging. But constant exposure to moisture from rain & snow, heat, cold, salt, and even drying winds also contribute to the breakdown of the rubber.

A spare tire mounted on the back of a vehicle

If your RV’s spare tire is constantly exposed to UV rays, moisture, and road debris, it will degrade prematurely, requiring replacement. A spare tire cover is cheap protection!

Damage from Road Debris

Depending on where it’s mounted, damage from road debris kicked up onto your spare tire can also reduce its overall integrity and lifespan.

It’s better for an inexpensive RV spare tire cover to take the hit as opposed to the actual (far more expensive) tire.

Maintenance

Speaking of road debris… unless you want to be cleaning dirt, mud, or sand off of your rig’s externally mounted spare tire, tossing a few bucks toward the purchase of an RV spare tire cover can make life a little easier.

Cleaning a tire cover is quicker and easier than cleaning the tire itself.

Storage

If you store your RV for several months of the year, your spare tire (and the rest of your RV’s tires) should really be covered… unless the rig is stored in an indoor and/or climate-controlled environment.

If you use an outdoor storage facility, then you should cover the spare tire for the same reasons you’d cover all the other tires.

RV tire covers are important for lots of reasons. Cover your spare!

RV Spare Tire Covers: Plain, Fancy, or Expressive

Depending on your personality (or the personality of your rig!), you can grab an RV spare tire cover that is plain black, white, or another solid color. Or you can use your rig’s spare tire cover as a way to express yourself!

Important Note: Before ordering any spare tire cover (especially a customized one that possibly can’t be returned) be sure to take an accurate measurement of your spare tire’s diameter or use a spare tire size calculator like this one from Tire Cover Pro to determine the appropriate size for your RV’s spare tire.

You can also simply Google the size tire you want to cover.

For example, if your tire is 225/75R15, drop that into a Google search bar and it should give you the diameter, width, and circumference of your tire. For most spare tire covers, the correct diameter is all you’ll need.

Most companies offer a guide to taking the measurements they need to provide you with the appropriate spare tire cover.

Let’s take a look at some examples of customized RV spare tire covers that might inspire you to be creative with an otherwise boring piece of gear.

Leader Accessories Universal Fit Spare Tire Cover for Trailer, RV, Car, Truck, SUV, Jeep, Camper

These plain, inexpensive tire covers are waterproof and dust-proof.

Made from vinyl backing that wipes clean, these covers have a soft cotton material on the inside to protect your tires.

An elastic rear hem with an eyelet cord provides a secure fit to the tire, preventing it from being blown away in the wind.

These covers are available in a variety of sizes and the manufacturer offers guidance in measuring for the appropriate fit.

Leader Accessories 26"-28" Spare Tire Cover Universal Fit for Trailer, RV, Car, Truck, SUV, Jeep, Camper Wheel, Waterproof Dustproof Thickening Leather, Black
  • [SIZE]: Fits entire wheel diameter: 26"- 28" (note: it's NOT the rim size). Please measure before purchasing.
  • [DURABLE MATERIAL]: Made with waterproof wipe-clean vinyl with soft, non-scratch backing, soft interior to protect spare tire.

ADCO 9753 Silver Diamond

On the “a little less plain” front, ADCO offers an RV spare tire cover with a fabric designed to look like diamond plate.

They’re made of heavy-duty vinyl that’s treated to protect against UV rays and cold.

It has a drainage area on the bottom to prevent moisture/water buildup.

Like other covers, this one is secured in place by an elastic hem.

ADCO 9753 Silver Diamond Plated Steel Vinyl Spare Tire Cover C, (Fits 31 1/4" Diameter Wheel)
  • Fit's a Spare Tire with 31.25" Diameter (including Rim and Rubber)
  • The fabric is designed to look like a Diamond Plated Steel and matches the plating on your vehicle

cozipink “Making Memories” Spare Tire Cover Weatherproof

Getting to some of the more expressive spare tire covers, here’s a neat camping-themed cover from cozipink.

These offer a universal fit for RVs, travel trailers, SUVs, trucks and other campers. Note that these spare tire covers are appropriate for size 14″ 15″ 16″ 17″ tires. (See the link for the manufacturer’s guidance regarding sizing.)

Made of wipe-clean polyester, these covers offer waterproof protection for your spare.

These are also secured with an elasticized back hem and adjustable drawstring.

cozipink Making Memories One Campsite Starry Sky Camping Spare Tire Cover Weatherproof Wheel Protectors Universal Fit for Trailer Rv SUV Truck Camper Travel Trailer 14" 15" 16" 17"
  • Material: Waterproof, Strong Wearability, Wipe-Clean Polyester, Helps Guard Against Sun, Rain, Mud, And Other Elements.
  • Performance: Effectively Protect Your Spare Tire In Rain, Snow, Wind, Dust, Sun And Any Bad Weather When Your Vehicles In Garage Or Outside.

cozipink also offers covers with many other themes but with all of the same features. Each one can give your rig a different personality!

cozipink Rv Spare Tire Cover for RV Trailer Camper Wheel Protectors Weatherproof Universal for Trailer Rv SUV Truck Camper Accessories for Travel Trailers14 15" 16" 17"
  • 【Specifications】: Size 14 inches, suitable for tire diameter 23.5"-27.5". Size 15", fits tire diameters 27.5"-30". Size 16", fits tire diameters...
  • 【Material】: cozipink spare tire cover is made of high-quality polyester fiber. with non-scratch soft backing. powerful waterproof fabric,...
cozipink Abstract Mountains Deer Lake Landscape Spare Tire Cover Wheel Protectors Weatherproof Wheel Covers Universal Fit for Trailer Rv SUV Truck Camper Travel Trailers Accessories 14" 15" 16" 17"
  • When your vehicle is in the garage or outside, effectively protect your spare tire from rain, snow, wind, dust, sunlight and any bad weather.
  • Waterproof, abrasion-resistant, wipeable polyester, helps to resist sunlight, rain, mud and other elements.
cozipink Deer American Flag Rv Spare Tire Cover for RV Trailer, Wheel Covers for Trailer Tires Weatherproof Universal for Trailer SUV Truck Camper Travel Trailer 14" 15" 16" 17" Inch
  • 【Specifications】: Size 14 inches, suitable for tire diameter 23.5"-27.5". Size 15", fits tire diameters 27.5"-30". Size 16", fits tire diameters...
  • 【Material】: cozipink spare tire cover is made of high-quality polyester fiber. with non-scratch soft backing. powerful waterproof fabric,...

Siski “I Go Where I’m Towed” Spare Tire Cover

Siski’s weatherproof spare tire covers are made of high-quality polyester fiber and have a soft non-scratch backing.

They’re waterproof, dust-proof, UV-resistant, and resist corrosion.

This cover is printed with UV-resistant ink. Sizes are measured using the tire diameter.

They have a nylon cord with a buckle to adjust a snug fit.

Siski offers several styles and sizes of spare tire covers. We’ll link to several of them with camping-related themes. Just remember to size correctly!

Siski I Go Where I'm Towed Spare Tire Cover Wheel Protectors Weatherproof Universal for Trailer Rv SUV Truck Camper Travel Trailer (15" fits for tire Diameter 70-75cm/27.5-29.5in)
  • ♥[HIGH QUALITY MATERIAL]: Our spare tire cover are made of high quality polyester fiber,with non-scratch soft backing. Powerful waterproof...
  • ♥[PERFECT SIZE]:Our spare tire covers are proportioned for the tire diameter for a stylish, form-fitting appearance.There are four size(14 15 16 17...
Siski Life Spare Tire Cover Wheel Protectors Weatherproof Universal for Trailer Rv SUV Truck Camper Travel Trailer (15" fits for tire Diameter 70-75cm/27.5-29.5in)
  • ♥[HIGH QUALITY MATERIAL]: Our spare tire cover are made of high quality polyester fiber,with non-scratch soft backing. Powerful waterproof...
  • ♥[PERFECT SIZE]:Our spare tire covers are proportioned for the tire diameter for a stylish, form-fitting appearance.There are four size(14 15 16 17...
Siski Happy Camper Spare Tire Cover Wheel Protectors Weatherproof Universal for Trailer Rv SUV Truck Camper Travel Trailer (14" fits for tire Diameter 60-69cm/23.6-27in)
  • ♥[HIGH QUALITY MATERIAL]: Our spare tire cover are made of high quality polyester fiber,with non-scratch soft backing. Powerful waterproof...
  • ♥[PERFECT SIZE]:Our spare tire covers are proportioned for the tire diameter for a stylish, form-fitting appearance.There are four size(14 15 16 17...
Siski Adventure Awaits and I Must Go Spare Tire Cover Wheel Protectors Weatherproof Universal for Trailer Rv SUV Truck Camper Travel Trailer (14" fits for tire Diameter 60-69cm/23.6-27in)
  • ♥[HIGH QUALITY MATERIAL]: Our spare tire cover are made of high quality polyester fiber,with non-scratch soft backing. Powerful waterproof...
  • ♥[PERFECT SIZE]:Our spare tire covers are proportioned for the tire diameter for a stylish, form-fitting appearance.There are four size(14 15 16 17...

Foruidea Glamping Spare Tire Cover

These are made of high-quality polyester with a soft non-scratch backing.

Treated against UV damage and corrosion, these inexpensive spare tire covers use a nylon cord and buckle to adjust the cover to a snug fit.

Foruidea offers several themes and sizes of RV spare tire covers.

Foruidea Glamping Camping Spare Tire Cover Dust-Proof Wheel Tire Cover Fit Trailer, RV, SUV and Many Vehicle 17 Inch
  • ★ HIGH QUALITY MATERIAL -Our Spare Tire Cover Are Made Of High Quality Polyester Fiber. With Non-scratch Soft Backing. Powerful Fabric, Dustproof...
  • ★ WIDE APPLICATION - There Are Four Size(14 15 16 17 In),SIZE S (R14) FIT FOR: Diameter 60~69cm, SIZE M (R15) FIT FOR: Diameter 70~75cm, SIZE L...

This one has a hole where a backup camera can be installed!

Foruidea Funny Donkey Spare Tire Cover with Backup Camera Hole Wheel Tire Cover Fit Trailer, RV, SUV and Many Vehicle 17inch
  • ★ HIGH QUALITY MATERIAL -Our Spare Tire Cover Are Made Of High Quality Polyester Fiber. With Non-scratch Soft Backing. Powerful Fabric, Dustproof...
  • ★ WIDE APPLICATION - There Are Four Size(14 15 16 17 In),SIZE S (R14) FIT FOR: Diameter 60~69cm, SIZE M (R15) FIT FOR: Diameter 70~75cm, SIZE L...

Custom Kansas City Spare Tire Cover

Sports fan? How about them Chiefs?!

These spare tire covers are waterproof, washable polyester and a PVC material.

You choose your favorite team, and you can customize your cover further with your name and/or your favorite player’s number.

No products found.

Hitamus Funny Cartoon Frog Smile

Hey – it’s all about the personality you want to express as you drive down the road, right?

These whimsical covers are made from high-grade, UV-resistant polyester and use an elasticized back hem and drawstring, or a buckle.

They do the same job of protecting your RV’s spare tire while adding a different personality to your rig.

In fact, these covers are cheap enough that you could buy a few and change them to suit your mood!

Hitamus Funny Cartoon Frog Smile Spare Tire Cover Universal Fit for Jeep Wrangler Rv SUV Truck Travel Trailer and Many Vehicles 14" 15" 16" 17" Waterproof Dust-Proof Tire Wheel Protector
  • HIGH QUALITY MATERIAL: Hitamus tire wheel cover is made of high quality polyester fabric. Durable, weather-proof and dustproof, protect your spare...
  • APPLICATION: This Tire covers are universal fit for Honda CR-V, Wrangler, Campers, Toyota CRV RAV4, Suzuki, Ford, Trucks, Car, RV, Camper,Trailers,...

Customize Your Own RV Spare Tire Cover

There are lots of options for customizing your RV spare tire cover with something that’s exclusive to you. You could even advertise your business.

You can find some of them on Amazon, or you can pay a little more and use an independent company that specializes in customizing spare tire covers.

A spare tire cover with two peace signs

Make a statement, advertise your business, or leave the travelers behind you with a smile while you protect your rig’s spare tire!

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John

Wednesday 8th of March 2023

Going back through your article, a very good one, I thought about our Thor Quantum sitting under four to five feet of snow. My question is as the snow melts off our RV and tire coverings, what should my wife and I inspect since the RV has been in "deep" winter storage?

TheRVgeeks

Sunday 19th of March 2023

After being stored under that much snow, John, we'd make sure to check for ANY signs of water penetration. As the snow melts, it can pool up in places on the roof that allow it to get in where it normally wouldn't. Of course, also check your tire pressures before you start RVing again for the season and give them a thorough inspection to see if you see signs of cracking/aging (if you're unsure, have a tire professional look at them). And if you didn't store your battery someplace warm, you may want to have it load-tested to see if it's still healthy so it doesn't die on you when you need it most.

Deb Jefferson

Tuesday 28th of February 2023

I’m guessing trying to cover the spare that is cranked up under the camper is a no go?

TheRVgeeks

Tuesday 28th of February 2023

Yeah, Deb. Not only would it be hard to get in place (doing it upside down), but the tire underneath the RV at least is shielded from any direct sunshine, so UV damage is less of an issue.

Gay Travel Enthusiast

Monday 27th of February 2023

Hey guys. I hope you're doing well. I agree with the idea of covering your spare tire from the elements. Doesn't location of the tire also have something to do with how well protected from the elements? Most times, the spare tire is either in front of a motorhome or aft of the motorhome? Either way, they'd both be exposed to the elements unless they had a good quality cover to protect it.

Gay Travel Enthusiast

Wednesday 1st of March 2023

@TheRVgeeks, I've heard of some caravans (trailers) that have the spare tire underneath the trailer, meaning they may not be exposed to direct sunlight, but they can be exposed to debris being thrown from the road.

TheRVgeeks

Tuesday 28th of February 2023

We're good, thanks! Hope you're doing well, too, Jason! Yeah... many RV spare tires are mounted in locations that mean they're exposed to the elements (especially the sun)... though lots of towable RVs have them mounted up underneath the rear, so they don't get direct sunlight.

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