RV Essientials
Gear to make trips better
I’ve fixed enough rigs, fried enough fridges, and blown enough tires to know what works. This page has the gear I personally use — they help me diagnose, travel in comfor and have saved my butt (and my dog’s snacks) more than once.
Some of these links are affiliate links, which means I receive credit for taking you there, and the places send me a few bucks for that. Doesn’t cost you anything extra, some of the links are cheaper than you can find others places — and your purchase helps get the word out about good products.
🔧 Toolbox Must-Haves
Dewalt Impact Driver
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Impact Driver, Brushless, 1/4", 3-Speed (DCF845B)
BRUSHLESS MOTOR delivers 1825 in-lbs of torque and 3400 RPM to drive large diameter screws
COMPLETE TOUGH FASTENING APPLICATIONS on the jobsite with 30% more torque
PRO-LEVEL CONTROL and precision with variable speed trigger and 3-speed setting
BRIGHTEN WORK AREAS with an integrated 3-LED work light for ehnanced visibility in low-light areas
Why we like it:
The XR is the premium Dewalt line. I didn't spend the extra few bucks to buy the XR at first, and all of those stopped working for some reason. But when I switched to the XR, nothing has broken yet. This one comes with a light, adjustable torque with a variable speed trigger and best of all you can use the 20v battery to power MANY other 20v accessories which make the DeWalt line so competitive.
Screw Driver Set
SUNHZMCKP Magnetic Screwdriver Set 66-Piece
Whether you are a mechanic or a DIY enthusiast, Meet your work needs, It can be widely used in most projects such as home appliance maintenance, furniture assembly, automobile repair and so on.
Why we like it:
One of my problems was that I always bought screw-driver sets without a case. And I never seemed to have the right one (to fat, wide, flimsy, etc) - this 66 piece comes with almost every screen driver you will ever need and comes with a solid case. The case is small enough to take with you when you go to use it around the house or at a job,. Its much easier to lose an individual screwdriver rather than the whole damn case anyway. So take the whole case (not just the screwdriver you think is the right size) so its easier to put back when you are done (rather than leaving it on the counter), and if you happened to grab the wrong size, having the case right there makes it easy to select the right one rather than walk all the way back to your tool bag, shop, truck, whatever - and lose that time going back and forth getting the right tool.
Dicor Lap Sealant
Dicor 501LSW-1 Self-Leveling Lap Sealant, 4 Pack
Creates a secure, secondary seal along the roof’s edges, air vents, vent pipes and screw heads
Adheres firmly to aluminum, mortar, wood, vinyl, galvanized metal, fiberglass and concrete
Compatible with EPDM and TPO sheeting
Color: White
Why we like it:
This is for skylights, roof trim, and all the fixtures or features on your roof (antenna screws you need to reseal) on top of your rv roof.. ITS SELF LEVELING, which means it goes flat after you put it on. If you put this on, lets say a window on the side of your rv, it would roll/fall/droop off. So you don't use self-leveling on anything that is mounted up/down, you only apply this on edges and over screws you need to seal that are lying down flat(ish).
multi-meter
IDEAL Electrical 61-747 TightSight 400 Amp 600-Volt Digital Truerms AC/DC Clamp Meter
Measures AC/DC current, AC/DC voltage, frequency, resistance, continuity, capacitance, diodes, temperature and senses AC voltage
Built-in flashlight and dual backlit displays, allow for safer/faster work in poorly lit environments. Built-in probe tip holder and hanging strap clip (UMHS-757 hanging strap sold separately) allows safer, easier measurement
Why we like it:
I really like this Multi-meter. Especially because it has 2 view points. When I'm under a camper, measuring voltage on a slide motor or something, being able to see what the volts are looking at the 2nd screen saves time and potential straining your neck or back trying to lift your head (from under a camper) to see the screen on most multi-meters. I like the ease of which it lights up the back display. I have a few multi-meters but this is the only one I use.
Makita Impact Drill
Makita XDT18ZB 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Sub-Compact Brushless Cordless Impact Driver
Compact and ergonomic design at only 5-1/4"
Weighs only 2.6 lbs. with battery (battery not included) for reduced operator fatigue
Ideal for working in tight spaces
Variable speed (0-1,300/0-3,000 RPM & 0-2,000/0-4,100 IPM) for a wide range of fastening applications
Assist Mode (A-mode) feature helps eliminate "screw cam-out" and "cross threading" by driving at low speed until tightening begins
Why we like it:
I have Dewalt mostly everything - except this Makita. I like it because it has a light you can turn on manually, it looks great, its light and there are several torque settings so you don't over tighten or strip screws. If you are trying to torque the bolts on a tire, this isn't what you want. But if you are screwing in stuff on a project, this is exactly what you want and its last LONG TIME. My other favorite is the Dewalt XR impact Drill which I have several of as well.
🚿 Water, Sewer & Filters
Tank Sewer Wash Hose
Camco Camper/RV Holding Tank Swivel Stik Rinser
Powerful Rotary Jet-Cleaning Action: Enjoy superior cleaning power with this RV tank cleaner. Powered with water jet action, it blasts through stubborn waste and odors in your RV toilet’s black tank, keeping it clean & smelling fresh!
Why we like it:
You shouldn't leave your black tank open, but you probably will and when you have a s&%^ pyramid back up your tank (when you flush it comes up not down) use this wand to blow it out. Take off the septic tank cap, open the black tank (you probably left it open already) and shove this wand all the way up, then blast water up there to knock the s$%^ and TP lose and out. Better than your garden hose 100%/
Water Filter
Under Sink Water Filter for Sink Faucet by CuZn
UNBEATABLE FILTER VALUE: Dollar for dollar nothing compares to performance and value of the UC-200 with an unbeatable 5 year filtration life. Other Under the sink filters last just 6 months, making them exceedingly expensive in comparison to UC-200
Why we like it:
Youre going to want a water filter. YOu either get the small ones that last only a few trips (great if you are a seasonal or 3x a year camper) but if you are using your rv on a monthly or daily basis, an under the sink filter is easiest. You can also mount these right where the water comes into the camper (in the rv) so that its not in a cabinet. I like this one because it last for 5 YEARS!! And that's daily use. If you use your camper sparingly, it should last much longer. That way no matter where you go you will be able to drink the water and shower without being able to taste and feel chlorine or rush from water tanks on your skin - or need to replacr filters often.
Sewer hose
Camco RhinoFLEX 15' RV Sewer Hose Kit — Includes 4-in-1 Adapter, Clear Elbow, & Caps
Superior RV Tank Dumping: Streamline RV holding tank dumping with Camco’s RhinoFLEX 15' Camper Sewer Hose Kit. Built tough & flexible, this all-inclusive RV septic hose system provides simple & effective tank dumping on your camping adventures.
Why we like it:
If leveling blocks are the first rv purchase, the sewer hose is the 2nd. I like this one because its 15ft long. You never know where the blank tank drain will be at a campground, and how closely you will be able to back up to it without hitting a table, tree or your neighbor at the campsite. 15ft is long enough to reach the furthest spots but in a pinch, 2 of these can be connected together so you can reach even the awkward drains anywhere.
Water Regulator
RVGUARD RV Water Pressure Regulator Valve
Function: Prevent water pipes from being damaged due to high pressure, suitable for campers, trailers, and RV plumbing systems.
Safety: Class C46500 lead-free brass treated by hot casting process technology. Each regulator is tested to contain less than 0.13% lead, well under the NSF/ANSI 372 lead-free requirements of 0.25%, giving you a safe and healthy life.
Compatible: Designed with 3/4" garden hose thread. It is compatible with all American water sources, easy to use. RVGUARD regulator inlet screen helps to filter out impurities in water.
Why we like it:
Pressure Regulators are a must. Some campgrounds have crazy high water pressure. You hook up the hose from your rv to the water spigot, turn it on and the pressure blast off the PEX fitting that connect water to the kitchen sink, showers, etc. It could blow by the sink, under the camper, anywhere. To prevent that high water ripping apart your plumbing system, put on a pressure regulator valve on the end of your hose or right at the rv inlet. Then when you turn on the water regardless of the pressure your plumbing system will be protected.
🧊 Power & Cooling
Inverter
BELTTT 3000W Pure Sine Wave Inverter
Can be used with electrical equipment such as televisions, home theaters, car stereos and other sensitive loads for a long time
Why we like it:
An inverter is the workhorse of your solar system. I like this set up because its affordable, its PURE SINE WAVE (the electric wave/signal is consistent which sensitive devices need) and its 3000 Watts. 300 watts is enough to plug your camper into and run it as long as you aren't trying to run the microwave, electric water heater and other devices simultaneously. But if you want to go off grid and heat up your water, use a toaster, charge up your phones, watch tv - as long as you have the battery power, this is what you need.
It also comes with thick wires, and as you do your research you'll that those damn wires are expensive.
50 amp Surge Protector
GEARGO RV Surge Protectors 50 Amp, 15000 Joules
【15000 Joules】GEARGO Upgraded RV Surge Protectors protects your RV by recognizing power failures and provides up to 15000 joules of surge protection. It protects your RV from high/low voltage and weather-related power surges.
Why we like it:
You never think you'll need a surge protector - until you do. Talk to the people that you know who camp often and they will tell you that a surge protector is a must have. Why? Campgrounds have inconsistent power, there are often surges, power outs, and low power... And these can fry the electronics in your fridge, converter, water heater, anything 12v or 120v everything your rv except the furniture). Buy this and you won't have to worry about black outs, power outs or power surges that do explode appliances in RV's on a daily basis.
Lithium Ion Batteries (12v) 200 AH
Renogy Deep Cycle AGM Battery 12 Volt 200Ah,
Maintenance Free: Manufactured with thick absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) separators and advanced valve regulated technology, Renogy deep cycle agm batteries save you from acid leakage and frequent maintenance.
Why we like it:
Solar panels recharge your batteries.... that's what they do. You might be surprised that most of the things on your RV are ran off of your batteries (12v). They are the brains and 120v (ac/dc power) is the brawns/power. Keeping your batteries full will ensure everything on your camper works. Even better, you can add an inverter to the batteries and then you can go off the grid and still have power to run kettles, microwaves and other devices as if you did
12v Fridge
Dometic DMC Compressor Refrigerator - 9600028281,
AMPLE STORAGE: With 8 cubic feet of interior storage, this Dometic refrigerator is perfect for stocking up on food and drinks, making it ideal for use in RVs, boats, and off-grid cabins.
Why we like it:
We like this because its 12v only. That means its less things to go wrong and less maintenance, and keeping the batteries charged might be the easiest thing to do. AT a campground, in the forest, out in the middle of nowhere, this fridge will keep your food (and beer) cold on 12v so you don't need propane or a 120v outlet.
200 watt solar system
ECO-WORTHY 200 Watts 12 Volt/24 Volt Solar Panel Kit
[Wide Application]: Daily Output 800wh/day under 4 hours full sunshine condition. Perfect for RV, Caravan, Marine, Camper, Electric scooter, Golf Carts, Power wheels, Trolling motor, Tool trailer, Backup power supply for cabin shed home etc.
[Excellent Performance]: ECO-WORTHY solar panels use high-performance monocrystalline solar cells, which can provide up to 21.5% higher efficiency sufficient light conditions.size：35.2*23.1.37in
Why we like it:
A solar system will make your life better. From keeping batteries charged, to powering an Inverter, and allowing you to keep the lights on for days at a time. A solar kit is definitely one of the first upgrades to do to your camper.
🧱 Leveling & Towing
Trailer/RV Tow Hitch
Torklift F1002 Super Hitch
Item is not universal check your fitment prior to ordering
SuperHitch frame mounted receiver rated up to 17,000 lbs. with weight distribution in either the upper or lower receivers. (When used without SuperTruss extension (sold separately.)
Why we like it:
This is one of the best if not the very best hitch on the market - especially if you have a cabover camper. They are a bit pricey but 100% worth it. They make a "super truss" that connects on the ends and allows tiedowns for a cabover camper. They also make 2, 3,4, 5ft extenders so if you are towing a boat or something and don't want to risk making a sharp turn and having it hit something, the extensions are great. Please check to make sure it matches your truck. Product numbers that start with a F are for Ford, D for Dodge, etc.
wheel chock 2
MAXXHAUL 70472 Solid Rubber Heavy Duty Black Wheel Chock
Compact Size: Measuring approximately 8 inches in length, 4 inches in width, and 5 inches in height, these wheel chocks offer a convenient and space-saving solution for securing your vehicle or trailer.
Why we like it:
These wheel chocks are about half the price of the others, and work in a similar manner - not letting the tires roll back. I like these ones, but when I have a really nice camper, I get the ones that slide in-between the tires.
Trailer Ball Mount
BulletProof Hitches - Heavy Duty Road Suppressor Dual Ball 2" and 2-5/16" - Suspension Hitch Rated to 22,000 lbs
Enhanced Protection: The Road Suppressor Dual Ball minimizes vibrations, protecting your trailer cargo and tow vehicle suspension; it extends equipment lifespan, reduces wear and tear, decreases tire wear, and prevents long-term damage to your equipment
Why we like it:
I have a dump trailer that weighs about 18k when loaded. This is the only hitch I grab when its time to go to the dump.
Wheel Chock
Camper RV Wheel Chock Stabilizer
TRONGER & DURABLE: BEBOBLY camper wheel chock is a stabilizer that is installed between the two tires of a Trailers or RVs. Quality tools to help you get a better travel experience. Prevent your items from moving due to vibration, traffic, wind, etc. Keep your travel trailer stable, comfortable and safe.
Why we like it:
There are 2 kinds of wheel chocks you can use. It doesn't really matter which one you use, but you need one. At least one time in your life (if you have an rv) you'll think you don't need one, or forget, and unhook your rv from your truck and then watch it start to roll away. Bye Bye. It happens everyday. The other style chock is the one you lay behind the tire. We have that one on here too.
Demco Hitch
Demco 8550045 Recon Hitch
If you want a super strong hitch that you can take out of your truck bed when not in use (most are permanent) this is the one.
Why we like it:
Double check to make sure you get the right one, they make a bunch. This is the type of hitch that allows a Gooseneck (when the ball sits at the bottom of your truck bed) to connect to a fifth wheel (when the camper connects up higher ) to your truck.
If you are like me and want a hitch that allows you to tow a fifth-wheel, but then get wherever you are going (home, a campground, etc) to take the hitch out when you get there, this is the one. Most hitches are more or less bolted into the bed frame - it ain't coming out, so you lose that bed space almost permanently. This easily comes out in 3 pieces and can be disassembled easily . Take them off, set them to the side, and now you have a wide open truck bed to throw your plywood and dirt bikes back in. No giant hitch in the way.
Side Note: Some people report of these twisting. I built a platform with 2x4's almost in a square and made it so part of the wood was straight across, right behind the hitch. So if it ever did try to "twist" it would hit that wood and that would stop it. I'll post a picture of it. But this summer I drove several fifth wheels some 20k miles (and across the country) and this hitch was fantastic. Glad I bought it.
Leveling Blocks
12 Pack RV Leveling Blocks
Pack of 12: 10 Interlocking Leveling Blocks and 2 top blocks; Each block is one inch tall; You can customize the stack height to suit your needs
Dimensions: Single block dimensions 8.5" (L) x 8.5" (W) x 1.5" (H); Single top block dimensions 8.5" (L) x 8.5" (W) x 0.7" (H).
Tough and Durable: Our leveling blocks are made of Polypropylene materials with anti-UV aging additives, and increased density and thickness of the structure
Why we like it:
If you haven't sleep at an angle that had you about to slide off the bed, you will if you don't have a set of leveling blocks. I'm not sure what I was thinking going up to the mountains, finding a spot and trying to use pieces of wood or plywood to level it. No!! Use these leveling blocks. This 12 pack is enough to put 3 under 4 tires (on your rv) but you likely won't need that many. Typically only one side or the front or the back needs the to be risen. But if you want to be sure, buy 2 packs so no matter where you go, you'll find level ground for your rv.
🧳 Road Trip Comfort
outdoor rug
Outdoor Rug, Patio Rug, Plastic Straw Camping Rugs, Large Waterproof Area Rug
Hard-wearing & Waterproof】 The Step Rite outdoor rug is made of high-quality waterproof material, making it perfect for outdoor use, so you don't have to worry about rain ruining the fabric. These outdoor rugs are hard-wearing and can be used in both hot and cold weather. The patio rugs are made from sturdy materials so they are resistant to fading, cracking and tearing.
Why we like it:
Looks great, soft, strong, durable. Some people like smaller, bigger, but I find the 6 x 9 to be a good size.
Camping Table
ALPHA CAMP Camping Table Outdoor Portable Table with Storage Adjustable Aluminum Table
Specifications: Overall dimensions: 46.46'' L x21.65'' W x37.8'' H; Folded dimensions: 7.1'' L x5.1'' W x35.4'' H;Weight: 12.3lbs(5.6 kg)，Support 110 LBS
Extra Storage Space: Mesh pocket provides more space and holds more stuff. Perfect for food, cloth, hat, magazine or electronic product. It can be removed quickly from the 4 legs when you don't need
Why we like it:
Light, strong, and it folds into a bag for easy transport.
Cordless Tire Inflator
DEWALT 20V MAX Tire Inflator
High-pressure inflation mode with automatic shutoff
High-volume inflation and deflation modes
LED light helps to provide illumination
Three power sources for inflation on a jobsite and on the go (20V MAX battery, 12V DC, or 110V AC)
Why we like it:
This is a badass inflator! Maybe the last one you ever buy. Its works on the popular DeWalt battery system, but also works with a 12v outlet in your car and also a regular house plug. Unfortunately I didn't find out about this until trying to blow air into a tire with my mouth in South Carolina, at an auction for a camper with totally flat tires ,and no outlet around for the plug as well as my 12v cord wasn't long enough. Don't let a short cord or lack of an outlet stop you from getting things pumped up so you can bounce.
Dog Seat
URPOWER Dog Car Seat Cover for Pets 100% Waterproof
DOG HAMMOCK WITH SIDE FLAPS - URPOWER dog seat cover with side flaps can protect not only your backseat but also the car door from scratches. Side flaps with up/down zipper is easier to help elderly dogs get in and out of the car. It can also easily convert from dog car hammock, to dog bench seat cover, or trunk cargo liner
Why we like it:
my dog loves this. I put her bed on top and now she has the whole back area and I don't have to worry about her falling in between the gap between the front and back seats. I also put her treats, poop bas, and toys in the back pocket. Saves the car upholstery and keeps the dog safe and comfy.
firepit
Yaheetech 21inch Fire Pit Portable Folding Steel Fire Bowl
Small, Lightweight But Practical: Thanks to its lightweight design (weighs 8.7 lb) and foldable legs, this 21 inch fire pit is easy to move around your yards/porches/patios after fully assembled, and is convenient to fold and carry in a compact size for camping trips or beach parties
Why we like it:
You're going to want to make a fire at night, its once of the best things of camping. This fire place is the perfect size and has legs that fold up so it can fit in the back of the truck, in the trunk, in the storage area of the rv or back seat if needed, without taking up much space.
TPMS Tire Pressure Monitor
Tymate TM7 Tire Pressure Monitoring System
[Accurate Real-time Monitoring & Multi-Alert System]: Tymate TM7 TPMS can be used to monitor your tires’ pressure and temperature data within robust accuracy of ±1.5 PSI or ±3°F (The units can be displayed as ℃ or ℉ & BAR or PSI). Designed with six distinct alarm modes: high/low pressure, fast leakage, high temperature, sensor low battery, and sensor signal lost.
Why we like it:
This one doesn't require a battery or charge, it is plugged into the old school cigarette lighter outlet. One less thing to worry about having a dead battery. If you have an rv you will encounter a blow tire at some time. Proper inflation is also crucial for turning, driving fast (the speed limit is 80 in Texas and many States EVEN if you are towing an rv) for not blowing from all the weight you are putting. Arguably, proper inflation pressure is one of the most crucial and critical elements on an rv. This pressure monitor can tell you what your tires pressure without having to get out of the car and go to a gas station. Put 4 on your vehicle and 4 more on your trailer and you'll be able to know exactly what the pressure is on all of your ties.
blue-tooth speaker
IPX7 Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker, 40W(60 Peak) Portable Wireless Speakers with Subwoofer
Powerful Stereo Speaker - Featuring 4 dedicated drivers with 2 15W full-range drivers and 2 5W tweeters, along with 2 passive radiators on the front and rear, this loud Bluetooth speaker delivers 40W surround sound (peak 60W) and pumps out well-balanced midrange, crisp treble, and punchy bass with virtually no distortion, letting you enjoy the music to the utmost. Pair 2 speakers together for 80 watt stereo sound
Why we like it:
its got good sound, bass, it floats and its waterproof.. nuff said.
Folding Camping Chairs
FAIR WIND 2 Pack Oversized Fully Padded Camping Chair with Lumbar Support, Heavy Duty Cooler Bag Fold Chair Support 450 LBS
Heavy Duty Lawn Chair】: Superior strength high tensile steel frame, 22mm tube combination construction.
【Oversized Folding Chair】: Widened design, more comfortable for your legs. Open Size 39.37'' X 24.41'' X 25.2''.
【Lumbar Support Outside Chair】: Adjustable Integrated lumbar arch support for more comfy position.
【Frame for Extra Support】: 4 Cross bracing hubs on front ,sides and back for extra reinforcement.
Why we like it:
I dont really like camping chairs, but these ones work. The extra padding and strong frame make it sturdy, comfy and ready to help you relax by a campfire.