Whether you live in an RV full time or just do weekend trips, there are certain RV accessories that can come to great use when you’re on the road. Some of these accessories will help enhance your camping experience, while others you’ll need to properly operate your rig. The following list of 50+ must have RV accessories we recommend for all types of RVs, including travel trailers, 5th wheels, and motorhomes.
50+ Must Have RV Accessories
1. Drinking Water Hose
A drinking water hose will ensure that you have access to clean water whenever you need it. When choosing a fresh water hose for your RV, make sure that you get one that is BPA, lead and phthalate free. This would ensure that your drinking water doesn’t taste like plastic and that it’s safe to drink.
Also, choose a water hose with enough length. A 25 feet hose should be about right. Anything shorter might not give you enough length to reach the park’s water connection and anything longer will make it annoying when taking it out.
2. Water Filter
Your RV might already come with an inline water filter. However, if it doesn’t, consider investing in one. Not everywhere you’ll be able to get clean drinking water. And a good water filter would help to remove sediment, chlorine, and other water contaminants. It will make the water safer for drinking and better tasting.
When looking for an RV water filter, consider getting an inline model. These filters are installed between your fresh water hose and the RV.
3. Water Pressure Regulator
It’s also worth spending a few dollars investing in a good water pressure regulator. Some campgrounds have very high water pressure and your RV’s plumbing system is built to withstand only 40 to 60 PSI. Higher pressure than that can burst your RV’s water lines, causing leaks in the system. So, to avoid that, it’s a good idea to install a water pressure regulator. It’s a device that monitors the PSI of the incoming water and if necessary, adjusts this pressure to safer levels.
4. Sewer Hose Kit
Dumping a wastewater tank is not a fun task. However, with the right equipment, it can be an easier job. Such equipment would include a sewer hose kit, which would help to get the stuff going down your toilet into the sewer.
When buying one of these sewer hoses, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First of all, consider the length that you’ll need. In most cases, a 15 feet hose should be sufficient enough. However, you can also get a 20 feet hose that consists of two separate parts. This would allow you to use it either as a short 10 feet hose or as a longer one with the two halves connected. You could choose either one depending on the situation.
Moreover, get a hose that has a clear elbow, which would help you see if the tank is empty before you disconnect the hose.
And finally, choose a hose that would be rugged enough to withstand use and abuse without cracking or breaking. Having your waste leak through the hose can be a real nightmare, so it’s better to avoid it.
In addition, to the sewer hose kit, you might also need a macerator pump.
5. Disposable Gloves
When dealing with the sewer hose and its connections, you’ll need some gloves. They will help avoid contact with the waste and keep you clean. A good option would be disposable latex gloves since you won’t have to clean them after every use. However, if you have an allergy to latex, a good alternative would also be nitrile gloves.
6. Holding Tank Treatment
Sanitation shouldn’t be a big deal in your RV if you use appropriate chemicals. It would help break down the solids in your waste tank, so when flushing it out, it won’t clog. Moreover, they can deodorize the holding tank, ensuring that you can enjoy an odor-free time staying in your RV. There are many different products available on the market but we recommend choosing one that is biodegradable and environmentally friendly.
7. Surge Protector
Must have RV accessories also include a surge protector. Since it’s not uncommon for campgrounds to have sudden power spikes and dips, it’s important to invest in a good surge protector. It will protect your RV’s electrical system and all the appliances and devices that you have on board. A surge protector can prevent serious damage caused by voltage fluctuations. And this, in turn, can save you thousands of dollars.
8. Power Adapter
RV power adapters are also commonly called dogbones. These units can be really handy in situations when the campsite’s electrical output is incompatible with your RV’s.
For example, many RVs require a 30 amp service but many campsites offer 50 amp outputs. And vice versa. You might have a 50 amp service but you’ll only find 30 amp outputs at the campsite. So, in the first situation, you should get a 30 amp to 50 amp adapter. And in the second, 50 amp to 30 amp adapter. This will ensure that you’ll always be able to connect your rig’s electrical system to the hookup at the RV park.
9. RV Battery
To be able to use all the electronic devices and appliances in your RV, you’ll also need a battery. It will allow you to store all the power that you collect either from solar or other ways of charging. Choosing the size of the battery, keep in mind your energy needs. Think about also if you will be spending a lot of time away from shore power, in which case, you’ll need a bigger battery bank.
10. Battery Charger
Most recreational vehicles have a built-in battery charging system. However, not all of them can offer good performance. Some might actually be damaging your batteries by overcharging them. Or they might not be providing you with enough power by undercharging. That’s why many choose to invest in a new RV battery charger.
When choosing a battery charger, keep in mind that there are two main types. One is a converter charger, which serves two functions. It converts the 120 volt shore power to 12 volt DC and it charges the battery when it has excess capacity.
The second type is an inverter charger. On top of the two functions of the converter charger, it also adds the function of inverting DC battery power to AC when shore power is not available.
11. Shore Power Cord
To be able to connect your travel trailer or motorhome to an outside power source, such as the campsite’s power outlet or your generator, you’ll also need a shore power cord.
Keep in mind that you can’t use your regular household extension cord since then you’ll be running the risk of a fire hazard. Instead, it should be a power cord designed for RV use with enough amps rating to handle your specific loads. We also recommend choosing a cord that is 25 feet long, which would give you plenty of length to reach the faraway power sources and outlets.
12. Tire Pressure Monitoring System
Another item that we consider a must have accessory is an RV tire pressure monitoring system. Your tow vehicle might already have it but you might also want to install it in your 5th wheel, travel trailer, or motorhome.
This device will help you monitor your tire pressure and temperature, so you’ll get a warning and will be able to make adjustments before anything goes seriously wrong. It will help to avoid blowouts and will keep the tires in optimal condition, making your driving much safer.
13. Backup Camera
Reverse driving an RV has its challenges, especially when you’re stuck in a narrow path or busy street. And if you have a larger RV, it’ll require an extra set of skills for the task. That’s why it’s a good idea to invest in an RV backup camera, which would make you feel a lot more at ease when parking in tight spaces. It will help you become aware of any pedestrians, animals, or objects behind you, making your reversing a lot safer and easier.
14. GPS
We also recommend getting an RV specific GPS system. It will not only help you find the best route to your destination but will also make sure that you get there by avoiding any low bridges that could rip your AC unit or satellite. You just put in the height and weight restrictions of your RV and the device finds the best route for you.
15. WiFi Booster
Campground wifi is usually not that good. And if you’re parked far away from the office, you’re screwed. So, if you need to stay connected at all times, consider also investing in a WiFi booster. This device locates far away weak signals and boosts them for better reception.
16. Cell Signal Booster
For those who always need to stay connected, another device you might want to get is a cell signal booster. It works similar to the WiFi booster. It takes whatever weak signal you have from your 3G or 4G LTE and then significantly amplifies it, providing you with a boosted signal inside your RV.
17. RV Solar Panels
If you do a lot of dry camping, we also recommend installing RV solar panels. They will ensure that you never run out of power and will provide you with a more environmentally friendly option of powering your rig’s appliances. This initial cost might be high for these systems but they will definitely pay off in the long run.
18. Leveling Blocks
Many camping spots are not level, even if they are paved. And no one finds it comfortable sleeping at an angle. Moreover, uneven parking can be damaging for your fridge. That’s why leveling blocks can come in handy, whether you have a camper van, a 5th wheel, or camper trailer.
When using these blocks, you just need to stack them to the appropriate height and then just roll your tires onto them.
19. Wheel Chocks
To keep your RV’s tires securely in place when you’re parked, we also recommend getting wheel chocks for your rig. These chocks are a necessity for any RV, ensuring that the vehicle won’t shift or roll away once everything is set up.
20. Stabilizer Jacks
Stabilizer jacks are another handy device that will help keep your RV firmly in place. It’s designed for use when parked in an uneven spot. And it prevents lateral and vertical movement of your vehicle, eliminating the rocking movement of the rig when someone is walking inside. This makes staying in an RV a more comfortable experience.
21. RV Generator
For RV camping where shore power is not available, one more must have accessory is a generator. It will offer power for all your onboard electronic appliances and devices, providing you with all the comforts of home.
When choosing an RV generator, it’s essential to choose one with the right capacity. For that, determine your power needs. Calculate how much electricity you use daily and find a unit that would be able to match those demands.
Consider also getting an inverter generator. These units are usually quieter, more efficient, and smaller compared to regular generators. On top of that, they deliver a higher quality power output, which is safer for powering sensitive electronic devices.
However, if you only stay in campgrounds, you can skip this one since you’ll have a constant supply of power anyway.
22. Propane Regulator
To regulate the propane pressure, you’ll also need a propane regulator. It will keep track of the tank levels and reduce cylinder pressure to a more manageable flow. It is an essential RV accessory if you have a gas system in your vehicle.
23. Hitch Lock for Travel Trailers
A hitch lock is another essential item and its purpose is to stop thieves from stealing your trailer. It keeps your trailer hitch and the receiver locked, so no one can lift the receiver and unhitch the trailer until you unlock it.
24. Air Compressor
An air compressor will also come in handy in RV camping. And there can be many uses for them. You could use them for topping off tires, adjusting stabilizer jacks, and winterizing the plumbing system. When choosing one, we recommend opting a tankless air compressor. These are portable units that are perfect for small jobs.
25. Trash Bin
A simple and effective solution to storing trash during your camping trip is by using a collapsible trash bin. It’s a pop up trash can that can easily collapse or expand whenever you need it. This design ensures that it doesn’t take up much space when in storage and makes it convenient for use when you want to place it outside during the day.
26. Toilet Paper
Unless you plan on only using the campsite’s bathroom, you’ll also obviously need toilet paper. However, keep in mind that you can’t use the same toilet paper that you use in your house. RV toilet paper should be septic-safe, meaning that it should be biodegradable. Look for toilet paper that is designed to dissolve quickly, which would ensure that your holding tank doesn’t get clogged.
27. RV Awning
An RV awning might not be the most important RV accessory but adding it to your rig will definitely help enhance your outdoor comfort. They can partition off an area, protecting you from the rain and intense sunlight.
28. LED Awning Lights
When camping off grid, you’ll also want to add some light for your outdoor setup, which would allow you to carry on the daytime fun into the night. You can get outdoor string lights or LED light strips.
29. RV and Tire Covers
The main culprit of tire damage is excess heat coming from the sun’s UV rays and other weather elements. The same is true to the outer surface of the RV. So, it’s important to keep them covered in order to protect them from breaking down before due time. That’s why we recommend getting tire covers and whole RV covers that you could use when you’re parked at a campground or when you’re storing your RV during winter.
30. Windshield Cover
To keep at least some of the summer heat out of the RV, consider getting a windshield cover, which would help you enjoy cooler days and nights. These covers come in reflecting materials that help in keeping the sun’s heat away.
31. RV Mattress
If you’ll be spending in your RV more than just a weekend, we also recommend getting a good RV mattress. Most mattresses that come included in the campers are usually very hard, making you feel sore and stiff in the morning. To avoid that, you can purchase a memory foam mattress that would provide good support for your back while you sleep and help you wake up rested and rejuvenated.
32. RV Camping Mat
With the help of an RV camping mat, you can create a more inviting outdoor space and prevent all the dirt and sand from getting inside your motorhome. Moreover, it can make the area outside your RV more comfortable, while also provide a nice area for pets and kids to play on the ground.
33. Portable Camping Chairs
Outdoor seating can really enhance the comfort of your camping experience. Whether they rock or not, or whether they are zero gravity, look for a chair that is sturdy, comfortable, and easily collapsible for storage.
34. Portable Camping Table
In addition to camping chairs, consider also getting a foldable camping table. Whenever you’re parked at a campsite that doesn’t have a picnic table, you can set it up in front of your RV and use it for dining, food prep, or for holding drinks and snacks.
35. Camping Grill
At many campgrounds, you’ll find standard fire rings that you could use for cooking your food. However, if you’d like an upgrade to that, consider purchasing a camping grill. They run off standard propane tanks and allow cooking for big groups of people.
36. Bike Rack
Biking is a great activity for spending a day in the outdoors. A bike can also come in handy for running short errands. And if you do bring bikes on your RV camping trips, you’ll need an RV approved bike rack.
37. First Aid Kit
A must have for any RV is also a first aid kit. Considering getting one that is lightweight and compact, which would allow you to take it with you wherever you go, such as on biking, hiking, or fishing trips.
38. Fire Extinguisher
Don’t forget also about safety in your RV. It should also be equipped with multiple fire extinguishers. At the minimum, you should have one at the front, back, and in the kitchen.
39. Emergency Roadside Kit
For worst case scenario situations, when you’re stranded on a deserted road with no help in sight, you should always keep an emergency roadside kit in your vehicle. With this kit, you’ll be ready for car breakdown, bad weather, and other emergency situations. Some of the essentials that the kit should have include jumper cables, flashlight, tow rope, etc.
40. Detectors
RV safety supplies should also include a smoke detector, a carbon monoxide detector alarm, and an LP gas detector. They will help combat fire and other hazards in your RV through awareness.
41. Tool Box
A tool box is also essential to have on hand, especially if you’ll be driving to places that are not very populated. It will allow you to troubleshoot and repair if anything fails in your RV.
42. RV TV
When it’s raining or windy outside, you’ll need some type of entertainment inside your RV. And such entertainment can be a TV. It can help you stay connected to the rest of the world by watching the news and your favorite TV shows.
43. Satellite Antenna
You can also get satellite TV and internet on your motorhome, which would provide you with more entertainment to wind down. It will ensure an excellent reception and that you get a clear picture every time. Alternatively, you can get an over-the-air TV antenna.
44. Shower Head
Most RVs come equipped with a shower head. However, most of them are cheap junk. They provide very little pressure and easily break and leak. That’s why many RV owners install an upgrade. Many RV shower head products are designed to provide better pressure and do so while saving water.
45. Composting Toilet
If there are no plumbing or sewage facilities where you camp, you should invest in a composting toilet. These units don’t require any chemicals to operate and they provide a more environmentally friendly option since they keep the waste out of landfills.
46. Dehumidifier
An easy way to reduce humidity in the air of your RV is by getting a dehumidifier. It will provide a more comfortable and safer space in your RV. Moreover, it can prevent things like mold, which is often the result of excess humidity.
47. Solar Panels
If you don’t want to be dependent on campsites’ shore power, we recommend also installing solar panels on top of your RV. This will allow you to use your electrical appliances even when you’re boondocking.
48. Water Pump
To be able to use your shower and other water system fixtures in your RV, you’ll need a water pump. It will draw water from your fresh water tank and supply the fixtures with a high flow of water.
49. Tankless Water Heater
There are many different appliances that allow you to enjoy the same comforts that you get at home. One of them is a hot water heater with the best choice being a tankless water heater that can supply on demand hot water for your showers. This type of water heater is perfect for RVs since they are usually very energy efficient.
50. Space Heater
For those that plan on doing winter RV camping, it can be a good idea to buy a space heater. It can significantly increase the comfort of your RV life in the cold months. You can find small heaters that don’t too much energy.
51. Air Conditioner
Some RV owners might also find it essential to have an air conditioner, especially if they camp a lot in very hot regions or if they just prefer having cooler air in the vehicle. However, when considering getting an air conditioner, think of how it will be powered. You’ll either need lots of solar power or a generator. Alternatively, you could just use it whenever you’re hooked up to shore power at a campsite.
Conclusion
Hopefully, this list will give you a good idea of how to stock up your new camper or travel trailer. You might not consider all of these supplies essential. Some are definitely more important than others but you can use this list as a starting point for creating your own RV must have accessories checklist. Some of the other gear that you might consider for your RV are vent fans, recliners, vacuum cleaner. To keep your RV clean, you might also need an RV wax.