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Last Updated on September 4, 2024 by Paul Clayton
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40 Essential Items Every RV Owner Needs
If your RV has the necessary facilities, your camping experience will be luxurious. Spending a night in the woods with your mates is thrilling and adventurous.
The design of RVs ensures survival on the road. These vehicles have the essential tools to let you survive and enjoy your camping experience. However, if you want to take your camping adventures to a whole new level, there are some accessories you should always have.
Key Takeaways:
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- Essentials & Customization: The article highlights must-have RV accessories, emphasizing essential items for functionality and comfort, such as an RV mattress, water pressure regulator, and surge protector. It also suggests luxury items like a propane fire pit, solar kit, and espresso coffee maker to enhance the RV experience.
- Safety & Connectivity: Accessories such as a temperature monitor, GPS, walkie-talkies, and a backup camera enhance safety, while internet devices like a hotspot antenna and cellular internet equipment ensure you’re connected during your travels.
- Comfort & Convenience: Items like collapsible chairs, a folding table, and a hammock provide comfort on the road. Instant pots, kitchen knives, and mechanical toolsets cater to cooking and repairs, ensuring a more enjoyable camping trip.
- Long-term Investment: Solar kits, lithium batteries, and durable accessories like leveling blocks and X-chock stabilizers offer long-term value, making RV travel more self-sustaining and efficient.
Here is a list of some cool RV accessories to customize your truck. My list comprises primary and luxury items that can give a completely different meaning to your RV experience.
1. RV Mattress
RV mattresses tend to harden with time, so people frequently replace them. When buying a mattress, it’s essential to know your RV class for better functionality and durability. Otherwise, there might be some issues later on.
I found this hybrid gel-infused mattress, a 10-inch memory foam and pocket spring mattress that fits nicely into an RV.
2. Temperature Monitor
To stay comfortable, you must ensure the temperature inside your RV doesn’t get too high or low. Regardless of how extreme the weather might be, you can always check the temperature inside and adjust the air conditioner or heater accordingly.
A Temperature monitor system will measure heat and humidity and send alerts when the readings reach extreme levels. The user interface is simple, and it seamlessly connects with your smartphone.
3. RV Internet Equipment
For full-time RV travelers, internet devices are a must-have item. For RV hobbyists, these devices are equally important for staying connected to the world. You might have to answer urgent emails or post your travel diaries to social media.
Many travelers seek RV Wi-Fi devices, but I found cellular internet more reliable and safer. Cellular internet is much faster, so you can enjoy Facebook live sessions and video calls. Also, you don’t need extra devices, making it more convenient.
4. Laptop Stand
Laptop stands are great for RV camping because they help maintain body posture. It’s a simple yet essential accessory, especially for regular travelers.
By maintaining proper posture, you can avoid back and shoulder pain. The stand has a carrying case, so it’s also easily portable.
5. Instant Pot
Instant pots make cooking less complicated, and this is exactly what you want while traveling. The size of your pot depends mainly on your appetite and the number of people you are cooking for. However, most standard-size cooking pots are sufficient for RV travelers.
Instant pots speed up the cooking process. For instance, you can cook dry beans within an hour, and there is no limit to what you can cook.
6. Propane Fire Pit
Because of city regulations, wood fires are not allowed in many campgrounds. This can also affect other travelers. It is not allowed in many parts because of the possibility of wood fires.
Hence, a propane fire pit allows you to cook without any worries. It’s a useful accessory because of its safety and portability.
7. Drinking Hose
The drinking hose is an essential accessory. Hook it to your freshwater tank, and it’s ready for use. Make sure that you clean the hose before use.
When not in use, connect the two ends so nothing sneaks inside the hose.
8. Sewer Hose
A sewer hose collects all the drained water from your vehicle. Hence, you may need a hose length of 20 to 30 feet. I have no clear favorite, as there is a wide variety.
Just ensure that the fittings match each other perfectly so there is no leakage inside the vehicle.
9. Surge Protector
A surge protector is essential protective equipment. Although it may be a bit expensive, you must never travel without it. Surge protection keeps your vehicle safe from extreme voltages and protects your electrical appliances.
Two options are available: a 30 Amp surge protector and a 50 Amp protector for higher surge protection.
10. Walkie Talkies
When you’re hiking in remote areas, there are likely to be low or no cellular signals. Therefore, you should always have a backup communication system with you. Walkie-talkies are very handy for several reasons.
Firstly, they are lightweight and easy to carry around. Secondly, they can maintain communication for more extensive ranges without depending on a cellular network.
Lastly, most Walkie-Talkie devices are cheap and don’t cost much. But they can be life-saving equipment in case of emergency.
11. Air Compressor
We all hate flat tires. To avoid such a mess, keep an air compressor with you. They save time in an emergency and are easily portable, too.
Air compressors come with all the fitting adapters, but it’s good to carry a few extra adapters just to be safe.
12. GPS
A GPS locator and tracker are handy when traveling to an unknown location. They provide satellite-based guidance and can also keep track of your movement in case of an emergency.
RV GPS also lets you explore new camping spots without fear of getting lost.
13. Disposable Gloves
Whether at home or in an RV, gloves will always have a purpose in your closet. While traveling, you may have to gather wood or perform repair jobs. Hence, a pair of rubber gloves should be on your to-buy list.
14. Water Pressure Regulator
You must use your stuff carefully because finding a replacement on camping sites is not feasible. Especially with hose pipes, pressure regulation becomes crucial as it helps to maintain water pressure. Therefore, the pipes stay safe from damage.
These regulators consist of brass to make them long-lasting. They are also effortless to mount, and the pressure regulation range is sufficient for new and older RVs.
15. Water Filter
To enjoy safe drinking water, you must have a water filter in your RV. Modern RVs come with an inline filter, but you should buy it if you don’t have one.
Campground waters are unfiltered, so there is always a risk. However, with a water filter, you won’t have to worry.
16. Laundry Bag
Traveling is unpredictable. It would be best to think about every aspect, including the clothes you will take. You won’t always have time to gather and sort clothes that need washing. Therefore, a laundry bag can save you time in such situations.
Some people use laundry baskets, but I prefer bags because they don’t take up much space. There are different sizes and materials to choose from. You can also use a laundry bag to store other stuff.
17. Survival Knife
Whether you are a regular traveler or a hobbyist, a knife is the most needed accessory. If you carry a decent knife, you can do so much. A knife is both survival and self-defense equipment.
Whether it is about cutting wood and ropes or you’re thinking of hunting for dinner, your knife will be the best bet. Several options are available, but I like the survival knife set with adjustment tools, a safety cover, and a sturdy handle.
A word of caution: if you are traveling with kids, keep the sharp tools away from their reach. Otherwise, it can be very risky.
18. Tire Pressure Gauge
400;”>Tire pressure gauge lets you check your tire pressure. I recommend performing an inspection before and after the trip. Or you can also do occasional checks on the way, whatever suits you.
Since RVs are heavier than other vehicles, investing in a high-quality tire pressure gauge is better to maintain the right pressure. These gauges are simple and don’t take up any space, so keep one in your tool kit.
19. Solar Kit
It may be an expensive addition to your RV, but it’s a one-time investment. With a solar kit, you can free yourself from the worries of power problems. A solar kit will be a cost-friendly addition to your vehicle, especially if you are a regular RV traveler.
It’s okay to start with a single panel. It can suffice most of your power requirements. However, the kits are compatible with additional panels, too, so you can upgrade by adding more solar panels.
20. Grill
Having a barbecue in the woods with your mates is always nice. If you have a barbecue grill, you won’t have to look for firewood and build frames whenever you return from a hunt.
Many models are available, but I like the collapsible grill with a propane tank. It’s compact, portable, and doesn’t occupy much space.
21. Chairs
Always keep a pair of collapsible chairs in your RV. Although it may have several seating options, you can’t take them out of the truck. You may feel like taking a break from driving and relaxing outside the camper.
There is a wide variety of chairs to choose from. The collapsible models are my go-to options because they hardly take up any space when not in use, making storage convenient.
22. Bike Rack
Adding a bike rack to your RV is an excellent option for biking enthusiasts. This space-saving option means you won’t have to fit your bike inside the RV.
Bike racks mount easily to the back of the truck. You should invest in something with all the mounting accessories so you can attach or detach them easily whenever you like. Some of them can even hold up to four bikes at once.
23. Retracting Table
A folding table gives you many space-saving options inside the RV. You can use it as a work or dining table. After using it, fold it and put it under the bed. Also, you can relax and enjoy a cup of coffee outside.
24. Lithium Battery
I prefer Lithium batteries because of their durability and cycle count—the better the cycle count, the longer your battery life. Most RVs have a pre-installed battery that powers the entire unit.
However, an additional lithium battery can be a good backup for emergencies.
25. Head Lamp
For night-time adventurers, a headlamp is a great thing to have. You don’t have to carry it around as it easily mounts to the head, allowing you to take additional items like a hunting arrow. Buy the one that has a powerful beam, is comfortable to wear, and is durable.
26. Shower Head
RVs usually have a showerhead, but the quality isn’t always excellent. I suggest you buy a shower head with adapters and mounting accessories for quick cleaning and showering.
27. HotSpot Antenna
For RV bloggers, secure internet connections are essential. A hotspot antenna can help boost the cellular signal for more stable internet connections. It’s a one-time investment, but it’s worth it.
Many brands, like We-Boost, offer high-quality boosting services. You can also ask your friends for a recommendation.
28. Drawer Organizers
Rving is all about adopting a minimal lifestyle for your comfort. Even if you take less stuff, you may still face storage issues if you don’t organize smartly.
If you follow the smart hacks for storage, you will be surprised to see how many things your RV can accommodate without looking congested.
Drawer organizers are helpful for two main reasons. First, they are compact and easily portable. You can fit them anywhere in your camper. Second, you can use them as a closet to organize your clothes.
There are various brands, so there is no clear favorite for drawers.
29. Leveling Blocks
You will not always drive on smooth roads, so leveling blocks are a great utility product. Whether traveling in a pop-up trailer or a truck camper, leveling blocks will come in very handy. They provide support to the vehicle on sloped and uneven surfaces.
Moreover, they are also quite sturdy. Users prefer plastic and vinyl blocks because of their material quality. You can buy a kit at an affordable price.
30. X Chock Wheel Stabilizer
X-chock stabilizers provide additional stability to the vehicle by preventing tire shifts. They help the RV stay in one place and prevent it from rolling over. I prefer X-chocks because they work with the natural movement of the tires, not against them.
These stabilizers can extend up to 10 inches and last longer because of their anti-rust coating. They can retract to less than 2 inches, making them very compact and easy to store.
31. Marine Water Filter
Marine water filters are useful for salty and contaminated water. If you find yourself on a riverside with visibly undrinkable water, this filter, thanks to its coarse active carbon technology, will help you clean out the bacteria.
The unit comes with an extension hose, complete housing, and a filter cartridge that can last months, making it an economical option.
32. Backup Camera
Manipulating RVs in smaller places can be trickier. However, the job becomes much more manageable if you have a backup camera.
Backup cameras help you to get rid of blind spots while driving. They make it easier to reverse and help log video evidence in case of accidents.
You can never be too sure about the weather, so buying a waterproof backup camera is better. It can also be set to work only while reversing. It has an HD display that makes the view clearer.
33. Vehicle Leveling System
A leveling system is an ideal choice for higher precision in RV leveling. It’s a compact device that measures surface leveling on two axes. It has light indicators that simultaneously indicate the surface level.
Some of the advanced units also feature Bluetooth connectivity, which helps display all the measurements on your smartphone. Many of these leveling systems come with leveling blocks, so you can purchase a good deal for a lower price.
34. Mechanical Tool Set
Mechanical tool sets are valuable for emergency repairs and regular service. When buying a toolset, consider your budget and decide accordingly.
I like the MASTERTEC toolset because it’s a compact roll-up kit with a carrying bag and all the necessary tools.
35. Kitchen Knife Set
You might have a survival knife, but keeping it for emergencies is better. I prefer using a separate set of knives for kitchen use.
Many modern designs are made up of hard plastic instead of steel. You can buy a set of knives with peelers at an economical price.
36. Heavy Duty Extension Cord
Extension cords are essential accessories for survival kits. Simple yet highly effective, they serve a wide range of purposes. Hence, you must never travel without at least one of these.
Since extension cords aren’t too expensive, I suggest you keep at least a pair. Whether you are setting up a camping party outside your RV or need an emergency lighting supply, a heavy-duty extension cord is just what you need.
These cords can handle up to 50 Amps, which will be sufficient for most applications.
37. Pop Up Trash Can
Whether you’re stationed or driving, it’s bound to get messy inside an RV truck. Your truck can never be complete without a dustbin.
Thankfully, pop-up dustbins that can retract while not in use are available. They help clean and save space, making extra room for your other items.
38. Battery Charger and Maintainer
Battery chargers from NOCO are well known for their quality and durability. They primarily work with lithium batteries. They can charge both 6 Volt and 12 Volt batteries, and they also offer temperature compensation.
A proper battery charger can considerably extend the battery life, making it a useful accessory for your RV.
39. Espresso Coffee Maker
There’s nothing better than a nice cup of coffee on a chilly night under the dark sky. Espresso coffee makers are easily portable and don’t cost much, either. They are sturdy and durable, so they also prove economical in the long run.
If you depend on coffee to stay awake, don’t miss taking a coffee maker. If necessary, you need something that can keep you awake while driving at odd hours.
Do not risk falling asleep while driving—it’s a big no and even illegal. Hence, a coffee maker will be just the right accessory for your RV.
40. Hammock
Consider taking this along if you have a spacious RV and plan to travel with your toddler. The hammock will occupy some space but can give you peace of mind while your kid is asleep. You can also have a relaxing nap in it under the sun.
They usually come with a stand now, so you don’t have to worry about tying it to a tree. Made from cotton, Hammocks are sturdy enough and can bear enough weight to support two people.
Conclusion
When buying RV accessories, it’s also essential to check your RV class and then buy accordingly. This will avoid any compatibility issues.
Regardless of your RV’s class, there is always room for accessories and customization. The accessories I shared here are generic ones that can enhance the look and your overall traveling experience.
However, if you are willing to spend more, you can use many other cool accessories to upgrade your RV. It’s also a great idea to keep a logbook for your RV. This way, you can check how your accessories perform and which ones need an upgrade or replacement.
Lastly, you will only have a good time ahead if you follow the laws. Every state has different RV laws, so read them. Trust me, this is not a great time to get in trouble. Have fun!
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