Does an RV really need a shade?

[Hoverdave]

How many of you with RV's actually cover it with shade? If you do, how much does it help? Is it worth the extra expense and work?
I tested my AC last week when the temp was around 100, was able to cool the entire RV down to 80 degrees in less than 30 minutes. Since I don't plan on being inside outside of sleeping I am thinking a shade over the RV is not needed.

[Ratty]

Last year I helped someone put reflective bubble wrap on their windows. You buy it at Home Depot. It really helps.

[Hoverdave]

Already planned on the reflective wrap, covering the windows and frames makes a lot of sense. Actually spent some time today cutting the Reflectix to size.
I am asking about an entire shade structure built over the RV.

[Jackass]

It's unnecessary if you have AC and plan on using it... Reflective bubble wrap over windows is legit though.

I have no AC, therefore I shade.

Burning Man, where being shady is a good thing.

[Dr. Pyro]

I've always either had an RV or fifth-wheel, and never did I feel I needed to cover it. Our camp signs do cover one or two of the windows, so that may help a smidgen, but it's not really necessary.

[Meat Hunter]

I bring a small travel trailer with an A/C on top. My reason for not covering the trailer is that on the scant occasions that I run the A/C during the day; I that I think a covering would interfere with the operation of the A/C.

However, I do tape a reflective material over my windows.

Also, if you are inside your RV with the A/C running during the day, you are not at the event.

[Captain Goddammit]

Covering will not interfere with A/C operation if you've done it properly, meaning you have a decent air gap between the shade and your trailer.

Sleeping during the day with A/C on is the best way to be at the event. That allows you to rest the get up and actually enjoy yourself instead of being tired hot and miserable.

[Jackass]

Also, if you are inside your RV with the A/C running during the day, you are not at the event.

Well, if you get your ass whooped by the sun and last night's activities or are feeling kinda rotten, the air conditioned day nap will bring you back to par in quick fashion... Or you could be rolling around on a hot mattress with the sheets sticking to you, "resting".

[Captain Goddammit]

Meat Hunter is kind of right, while you're in there out of the sun in your air conditioned camper, you ARE escaping being at BRC for a while. I'm just saying that's a good thing and it helps me get back out there and party on.

[FIGJAM]

A well rested burner is a happy burner!!!

[caffeineslinger]

I patched and repaired my RV roof last year and re-coated it. Nice and white. Made a huge difference in temperature.

[traceyh]

We didn't shade the RV last year but using reflectix foil on the windows made a huge immediate improvement.