Here is what may be a strange question but I would like to hear from people who have owned boats for awhile.
I currently store my Ranger outside, under a factory tarp outside in the driveway ...

Question: Is it best to store:
1) Under cover - like a carport
2) In a enclosed storage unit
3) Under a tarp like i am now

Thanks for your comments
Mike (new boat owner)

Inside is always going to be your best option.

No question, # 2. Store it totally out of the elements.

2 absolutely
1 if 2 not available
3 is better than nothing. I'd recommend a tarp that drapes down the sides and over the trailer.

with regards to carports, boat slips are basically carports on the water. They still get beat down by the elements, just takes longer to get there.

thanks to all - kind of common sense but experience is always better

If 2 isn't a good option then I'd go with 1 and 3 together. Currently what I am doing. Carport will keep most of the elements out of the boat and provide a longer life for an expensive cover. the cover will keep the rest of the elements out of the boat and protect the finish from the sun during the part of the day that it comes in the sides of the carport.