travel trailer camping necessities

Travel Trailers

Last updated on: March 8, 2022

20+ Travel Trailer Must Have Accessories [2021 List]

by Peter Wade

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Being a full-time RVer is a desirable lifestyle, given that you are well prepared for the countless problems associated with camping and living in your RV . The good news is these handpicked travel trailer must have accessories will make your journeys on the road a whole lot more pleasant.

From the absolute necessities like power- and water-related devices and space-saving homeware and kitchenware to handy outdoor equipment, this list of 20+ travel trailer accessories includes all the items that seasoned full-time RVers have tested and would highly recommend. 

1. RV Water Pressure Regulator

2. rv surge protector, 3. lithium jump starter, 4. rv battery charger, 5. a quiet generator with remote start, 6. wifi ranger, 8. rv water filter, 9. air compressor, 11. bubble level or leveling blocks, 12. hampers & closet organizers, 13. hand-held vacuum, 14. bladeless table fan, 15. reflectix, 16. camping hammock, 17. portable propane fire pit, 18. liquid propane grill, 19. multi-functional cooker , 20. stove top oven, 21. coffee maker, 22. plate organizers/protectors, 2021 travel trailer must have accessories – absolute necessities.

The first category is of course the must have RV accessories without which you will NOT be able to survive intact on the roads. 

Traveling in a camper plus setup and maintenance is no simple business. Many first-time RVers have underestimate the importance of thorough research on what to equip their travel trailer with, only to regret later on when they are in the middle of nowhere. 

The following travel trailer must have accessories include the tools and devices for powering your RV, for managing its water system and for the most basic maintenance. 

It’s not that uncommon to blow out the water system on your trailer due to the unusually high water pressure on the campgrounds. High water pressure can cause extra stress in your RV’s water system which eventually will lead to troublesome leaks.

While some campgrounds already have the pressure regulated on their water source, it’s best not to leave this to chance. Imagine the time, efforts and irritation having to find and fix the leaks yourself. 

Water pressure is measured in pounds per square inch (PSI). While a typical recent model would be capable of handling up to 100 psi of water pressure, the recommended water pressure for RV is around 50psi for older models or 60 psi for newer models. 

The regulator is attached to the water supply at the campground and your RV water hose will connect to the regulator. If the water pressure at the campground is higher than 50 or 60 psi, the regulator will keep the psi of the water entering your RV down to a safe level. 

Since there are a wide selection of reliable water pressure regulators at a price range of under $15, this is an affordable and worthy insurance for your RV. A cheap but good option is Camco’s all-brass water pressure regulator , offered at about $10.

An adjustable water pressure regulator would be ideal to deal with inconsistent pressure levels at the campground. You can easily adjust the water pressure setting by using a screwdriver to turn the screw head. The setting is displayed by a gauge. 

RV water pressure regulators are commonly factory preset to a certain psi. For instance, if your regulator is preset to 45 psi and you find the water pressure to be too low in the shower, use a screwdriver to turn the screw: typically clockwise to increase water pressure for stronger stream and counterclockwise to reduce water pressure. 

There will be instructions for adjustments on the screw in the form of a two-way arrow and the “ +” and “-” symbols.

Similar to a water pressure regulator, an RV surge protector is like an insurance for your electronics. It is more than a good-to-have but is one of the travel trailer must have accessories you will need for hassle-free travel on the road.

An RV surge protector is a device that you plug into the power source on the campground, then you would plug your RV’s cable into the surge protector.

This surge protector protects your RV’s electrical system from any problems stemming from the power outlet. For example, the power outlet might be wired incorrectly or its voltage might be too low. In case of a lightning strike, the outlet might provide a sudden electrical spikes to your RV. 

Since your RV’s appliances require a consistent level of voltage to operate safely, all of these issues will wreak havoc on your electronics. In short, an RV surge protector keeps your electronics safe.  

An RV surge protector typically detects and shuts down when the power supply is at dangerously low or high levels, thus not allowing this problematic electrical source enter your RV and power your electronics. 

2 Types of RV surge protectors :

There are two types of RV surge protectors with different levels of protection. You can find an entry-level RV surge protector for $100 and above, while an EMS can cost from $250 to $500. 

An RV surge protector typically protects your RV’s electrical system from higher-than-normal voltage and sudden electrical surge, hence the name of the device. This is an entry-level protective device, thus is considered by many first-time RV owners.

An RV electrical management system (EMS) can protect your RV’s electronics from a range of electrical problems, including power surge, low voltage, high voltage, and also other common issues such as overheating plug or receptacle, reverse polarity, high neutral, open ground and mis-wired power outlet.

Such is really an extensive protection, thus it is well worth the price if you are a full-time RVer. While an EMS is quite the ideal surge protector for RV, you should make a decision based on your budget and your camping needs.

A portable jump starter can be a lifesaver on the road especially when you travel to less populated areas. 

Look for a jump starter that is powerful, compact and lightweight. Another handy tip is to look for a jump starter with low discharge rate. One with a discharge rate of only 1-2% per month means you can leave the jump starter in your RV in 1 year and still have enough charge in case of emergency. 

A reliable jump starter loved by full-time RVers is the Wagan Corporation’s iOn Boost V8 Air Lithium Jumpstarter .

Being effective and safe for 6.0 L V-8 engines, this jump starter uses lithium-polymer battery technology that produces 300 cranking amps or maximum 500 amps. It is also conveniently equipped with an air compressor, two high-speed USB ports and an LED spotlight.

A bonus is its built-in safety features that protect against overvoltage, overcharge, short-circuit and reverse polarity.

Most RVs come with a built-in battery charging system, however, more likely than not such system would fall short of expectations. It may actually under-charge or damage batteries by over-charging them, especially in older RVs.

Therefore it’s a good idea to upgrade your RV’s battery charger when you’re planning on a long trip in more remote areas. An option that receives great reviews by seasoned RVers is the UltraSafe Smart Battery Charger , a notable feature of which is its ultra-safe spark-proof technology.

Getting a reliable RV battery charger will ensure safe and efficient charging without any undercharge or overcharge. These advanced battery chargers are designed to convert energy up to a few thousand times faster than your typical built-in battery charging system, thereby minimizing energy consumption. 

You can find many compact, lightweight, and portable battery chargers on the market. In addition, you might want to grab one like the NOCO Genius Chargers that comes complete with a built-in battery desulfator to rejuvenate underperforming batteries.

This one is quite obviously among the top travel trailer must haves.  Seasoned RVers will insist that you need a generator for your camper , ideally a quiet generator.  

A permanently installed generator supplies power to your RV when you don’t have access to home and campground electrical hookups. 

The top choices for many RVers are the Yamaha and Honda generators, however, they come at steep prices. A more affordable yet powerful and quiet generator is those by the brands NOCO and Champion, such as the Champion 3500-Watt RV Ready Portable Generator .

The added remote start feature would be handy when you don’t want to have to leave your RV to go outside and start your generator. 

While there are more expensive models by other brands offered at above $800, RV generators by Champion and a few other brands including Predators typically costs between $400 to $800.

An RV campground is huge, and being parked a mile away from the campground router might mean weak wifi signals or no access to wifi at all. Furthermore, RV campground’s wifi is always plagued with problems and security issues.

You will no longer have to pull your hair out with irritatingly weak wifi. A nifty contraption like the WiFiRanger boosts weak WiFi from up to two miles away and tether multiple wifi signals together to create an even faster wifi.

An important feature is connection encryption to protect you from the massive number of unsecured wifi signals you’ll be connected to on the road. In addition, these RV wifi boosters are designed to withstand harsh outdoor conditions.

While hoses do not sound sexy, they are definitely travel trailer must have accessories.

It’s generally recommended that you get two garden hoses with different colour for easy distinction: one RV fresh water hose to fill the fresh water tank and another RV sewer hose to empty the black water tank at a dump station.

One handy tip is to get lead-free hoses so they are safe for drinking. 

While the ideal length is generally 25 inches as recommended by experienced RVers, it’s useful to get extra hoses for when you need extra length. A longer hose can be troublesome to take out and unkink.

The price of a hose usually depends on the length. A 25-inch hose typical costs around $10.

When it comes to the water you drink, extra precautionary measures is never a waste of money. Traveling on the roads mean you will be using water from a variety of sources, the quality of which is questionable.

An RV water filter that ensure your RV water pump is free from particles and sediment out of  As you travel around in your RV, thus it usually comes up in discussions on travel trailer must have accessories.

Check out the best RV water filters here !

Again, among the things you need for a camper trailer , an air compressor isn’t very sexy. However, when you live the RV life, you will be thankful you have one.

Having an RV air compressor to ensure tire health is key in preventing a blowout and avoid excessive tire wear. 

Travel Trailer Must Have Accessories: Parking

These blocks keep your RV from rolling away when parked. Since a travel trailer doesn’t have any kind of automatic brakes, chocks is a travel trailer necessities.  

There are a variety of block styles offered at different price range for you to choose from. Plastic and rubber chocks typically costs between $10 to under $30 for a pack of two, while more advanced metal wheel stabilizers like the X-Chock Wheel Stabilizer can range between $30 and $60 for a pair.  

When you travel off-road into nature, parking on uneven ground is common, which means you won’t get your trailer level.  

There’s a simple and affordable remedy for this: bubble levels or leveling blocks . You can get a bubble level for as little os $5 or even get a fancier level with raving reviews on Amazon, which can cost from $20 to under $40.

In addition, you can get leveling blocks instead of bubble levels. You can stack these flat blocks up like Lego to achieve the desired thickness, a super simple yet effective and convenient mechanism.

The two best sellers in this domain are Tri-Lynx RV Leveling Blocks and Camco Heavy Duty Leveling Blocks . Tri-Lynx and Camco are among the most loved brands by RVers thanks to the usefulness, quality and variety of their offerings.

The model from Tri-Lynx costs around $36 for a pack of 10 blocks, and is claimed to withstand any RV weight. Camco’s blocks are more affordable: ~$23 for a pack of 10. 

Travel Trailer Must Have Accessories: Interior

Open storage compartments in an RV are never adequate, even if you are a minimalist. Hampers and closet organizers will help you effectively optimize space and keep things organized. 

These come in a variety of forms and shapes. Most are foldable for space saving and super lightweight. You should definitely get some foldable storage bin cubes, which you can stack up, and some hanging shelves with sturdy metal frame.

Storage bin cubes usually come in packs of 4, 6 or 8 at $12 to typically under $30 for a pack. Hanging shelves can range from $13 to $30 for one. 

If you are a neat freak, maybe grab some drawer divider for underwear and thin summer clothes. When you don’t need them any more for your RV, they will always be useful in your home. 

WIth so many dirty shoes coming in and out from the campground, an RV gets messy more quickly than you would expect. While a broom would not be very helpful, a lightweight and compact hand-held vacuum will keep your RV clean without any hassle.

Good news is, you can get one with amazing reviews from fellow RVers without paying a fortune. An example is the ThisWorx For TWC-01 at $30. 

This is one of the coolest RV accessories , or home devices, that will save you the trouble of cleaning the fan blades.  

This bladeless fans guarantee smooth airflow and quick cooling. They typically come with a 2-year warranty. 

The price range is huge, so while you don’t need to grab a fancy fan for something between $150 and $300, do take some time to browse and check the reviews for the more affordable fans offered at under $80. 

This is a great RV hack that not many RVers know about. 

If you travel during summer or in areas with year-round hot weather, then Reflectix is definitely one of the travel trailer necessities you need for economical temperature control. 

Reflectix is a reflective insulation roll, which covers all your windows to reflect sunlight away from your RV, thus keeping your RV cooler. These rolls typically costs around $15-$20 each, an economical and effective way to survive brutal summer days. 

Travel Trailer Must Have Accessories: Outdoor 

You might think a hammock is only a good-to-have, however, many full-time RVers would challenge you otherwise. For me and my fellow travellers, a life on the road is not complete without the perks of reading a book or a nap in a hammock. In fact, many campers love to sleep outside under the stars in good dry weather. 

You can grab a basic, entry-level camping hammock for as little as $20, or if hammock is really your thing, you might get a fancy one with mosquito net and/or rainfly cover for around $80-$110.

A durable option with great reviews on Amazon is the Therm-A-Rest Double Camping Hammock , which can easily accommodate 2 persons.

Want to upgrade for the optimal hammock experience? Many brands, including Therm-A-Rest, also sell ultralight foam hammock mattress for between $40 to $100 for a top-notch quality mattress that will last you many trips to come. 

Like a hammock, you might think a fire pit is not that ‘essential’ to include in your bucket list of travel trailer must have accessories. Spend some time camping and you’ll think again. 

Camping and outdoor gatherings won’t be the same without a centerpiece campfire. 

Say goodbye to dirty ash, expensive firewood, and bothersome smoke. For typically $80-$130, you and your fellow travelers can enjoy clean, hassle-free and realistic propane campfire with cozy warmth and beautiful ambiance.

In addition, a big plus is a CSA-approved, spark-free propane fire pit is safe to use during most campfire bans, the objective of which is to  protect campgrounds and forested areas.

A huge perk of the RV life is outdoors BBQ. Do not compromise this, as there are a wide range of compact, go-anywhere grills offered at different price range you can choose from to perfect your RV experience.

Portable outdoors grills also solves the nuisance of cooking in limited space in the RV. 

You can find compact, portable gas grills with a 6,500 BTU-per hour burner and porcelain-enameled cooking grate for $60-$90. For easy carrying, look for one that features handles, plated steel legs and pivot to lock lid in place. 

A liquid propane grill, which runs on disposable liquid propane cylinders, would typically cost a little more. For $150-$250, you can get a grill that offers some 12,000 BTU-per-hour, 280 square-inch cooking area and easy-start electronic ignition.

Travel Trailer Must Have Accessories: Kitchen

A multi-functional cooker will save you space on your small RV by combining typically 7 kitchen appliances in 1, including: pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer, sauté, yogurt maker, and warmer.

The most user-friendly, reliable and affordable cooker is arguably the Instant Pot Duo Mini 7-in-1 Electric Instant Pot Duo Mini 7-in-1 Electric , which costs $60. It receives a 4.5 overall rating from almost 50,000 positive reviews on Amazon, making it the absolute best seller. 

If your RV has an oven, you can skip this item. However, if yours does not and you do not want to compromise great oven-cooked dishes, a stove-top oven is a convenient choice.  

A great option is the one by Omnia , which costs around $70. The brand also offers a variety of accessories for oven cooking. 

There is no doubt that every traveller needs a coffee maker, which does not take up space and does not cost a lot. You can easily get a stove-top coffee maker for under $25 that offers at least 6-cup capacity, durable cast aluminum design and also includes 1 replacement filter plus 3 replacement gaskets.

There are also plenty of options for programmable coffee makers with fast brewing feature and stainless steel design for under $40. 

This might not sound super grand, but is an RV accessories you will love more and more the longer you spend on the roads. Towing on bumpy roads can cause annoying rattling and worse, your cutlery can fall off the shelves and brake. 

A favourite cutlery protector by full-time RVers is the Camco Stack-A-Plate , which costs around $10 for a pack of 2, one small and one big.

While you’re on it, getting some organizers for your fridge would also prevent rattling and things knocked over as well as maximizing space.

If you’re a full-time RVer, then you will definitely need the items in this carefully selected list of travel trailer must have accessories .

About Peter Wade

Peter Wade is a co-ordinator and writer at www.RVTalk.net. His hobbies are coffee, RV camping and photography. He now enjoys exploring the U.S. by RV with his two dogs. After obtaining a MA degree in Public Relations and Journalism, he had 8 years of experience working for the R&D Department of Outdoorsy. Peter provides a unique look and insightful knowledge about the RV lifestyle, and fills his blog with everything from RV camping guides to reviews about necessary RV accessories. If you are an RV enthusiast and want to get the most-updated trends of the RV industry, Peter’s articles are the must-visit contents.

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I viewed this article, ’20+ Travel Trailer Must Have Accessories [2020 List]’. Great Stuff here. Thnx much

A 25 inch hose isn’t much help. A typo, perhaps?

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50 RV Essentials You Should Consider in 2022 – Expert Buyer’s Guide

August 22, 2022 December 1, 2021 | Christopher Harvey

Last Updated on August 22, 2022 by Chris and Lindsay

Maximize RV living and ensure that you own all the RV accessories that will keep you safe and comfortable while you travel!

Whether you plan to full-time RV or just head out on weekends, filling your storage space with all the right RV camping accessories can seem overwhelming.

And while RVers are known for setting up some pretty amazing campsites with all sorts of cool camping gear, there are several key RV gadgets and camping accessories that you absolutely must have on the road. 

In this post, we will not only give you a list of the most important RV must-haves, but also we’ll share our personal experience from over 4 years of full time RV living in why they are important enough to add to your list.

We’ll also share links to our Expert Buying Guides for many of the products so you can see the other options we’ve considered as we have equipped our RV to be our full-time home on the road!

Every RVer has his or her own reasons for promoting certain items. We want you to be safe , enjoy your journey and trust u s to help you make the most of your experience on the road!

Affiliate Disclaimer: This post m ay contain links to products we think you’ll like. If you purchase any of the products through the links below we’ll receive a small commission. As full-time RVers, we know our RV products well and only recommend those that we either own or would consider owning ourselves.

RV Must-Haves: Everything You Need to Equip Your RV For the Road

We’re giving you a snapshot of everything we carry with us in our newly remodeled Class RV and recommend that you consider packing into your before you hit the road. Whether you own a travel trailer, fifth wheel, motorhome or campervan, we’re confident you’ll find a use for most, if not all, of the items on our list.

While we are full-timers and believe in being completely self-contained, you may not need everything on this list. But we do recommend you consider each of these items and how they may be useful for your RV living.

We’ll start with the basics and take you through each topic of life on the road so you can feel confident knowing you have all the best RV accessories for your next adventure!

Our Honesty Disclaimer: In the course of living in our RV full time for over 4 years we have thoroughly researched all of these products before making the choice on our own. So we’ll give you honest information that allows you to make the best decision for which product is right for you.

The Basic RV Accessories

Starting with the basics. These are the true RV accessories that you really can’t do without.

As such we think you’re going to want to consider the following must-have RV items to handle your first and foremost priorities in life on the road. 

Water H ose // Camco 25ft TastePURE Drinking Water Hose

At the top of the list of RV must-haves is a water hose dedicated to drinking water.

Fresh water is a commodity on the road. When you refill your RV water tank you want to make sure you have a clean hose.

Sure, you can still use it to wash the dog. But you don’t want to mix this hose up with a hose used for cleaning your black water tank! 

In-line Water Filter // Camco TastePure RV/Marine Water Filter

We also recommend an in-line filter from the water source.

No, you don’t HAVE to filter your water before it comes into your camper. But it’s only a few bucks and a few extra minutes to hook up each time we fill up our holding tanks.

You’ll see a lot of RVers in every RV park using these standard blue filters at the end of their hose. 

Water Pressure Regulator // Camco Brass Water Pressure Regulator with Gauge

You would be surprised at the varying water pressure in campgrounds! Too much water pressure can damage your RV water system.

So we hook this water pressure regulator up and it takes any worry away about how high the water pressure will be when filling our water tanks!

Sewer Hose // Camco RhinoFLEX 20-Foot RV Sewer Hose Kit

If you have a grey and/or black tank you’re going to need a sewer hose to help you dump your holding tank.

It’s always better to have too much rather than too little when it comes to sewer hose length. We carry the maximum length we can stow (20 feet)! 

You can also add a sewer hose support like this one to help move your business along.

READ NEXT: Looking for more sewer hose options? Check out this post on the best RV sewer hoses on the market.

Leveling Blocks // Camco Heavy Duty Leveling Blocks

Leveling blocks are considered an RV must-have because they serve a variety of important purposes.

Parking level is important not only for comfort but also to protect your gas absorption refrigerator.

These are also good for helping to support and level a travel trailer or fifth wheel.

Power Adapters (15/30 AMP, 30/50 AMP) // Camco Heavy Duty RV Electrical Adapter

Not all power is created equal. Depending on the size of your RV electrical setup, you will want to have several power adapters on hand to step up or down the current that your RV requires. 

We recommend that you have both the 30/50 amp power adapter and a 15/30 amp power adapter so that you can use any power source an RV park provides. 

Shore Power Extension Cord // Camco 25′ PowerGrip Extension Cord

Sometimes your RV power cord will reach the power source on its own. Other times you will need a power cord extension. 

We always try to park as close to the power source as possible. But when it is not possible, our 25′ foot RV power extension cord more than does the trick. 

Remember to buy the 50 amp cord if your RV electrical system runs on 50 amps instead of 30.

RV Clubs and Memberships // Harvest Hosts Membership

A unique recommendation on our list of RV must-haves, Harvest Hosts is by far our favorite and most recommended RV camping club to join.

With over 2,500 unique locations on which to camp – farms, distilleries, vineyards, museums and golf courses – you’ll find yourself passing Harvest Hosts virtually anywhere you travel across the US. It is incredibly affordable and pays for itself in just 2 or 3 nights on the road.

SAVE 15% on your membership through this link .

READ MORE: Check out this post for other great RV clubs and memberships that will save you lots of money when you travel.

Portable Jump Starter // NOCO Boost Plus

A portable jump starter is a great way to ensure that you can be self-reliant in the event you need to jump-start your RV.

One like this is also ideal because you are able to use it to power other electronic devices you may need in the event of an emergency or breakdown.

We used to just carry jumper cables until we stumbled across this compact portable jump starter and we haven’t looked back since.

Multi-port USB Charger // Anker 60W USB Wall Charger

This multi-port USB charger is a game-changer when it comes to charging multiple devices at the same time. Instead of having a block charger for each device simply connect the wires for each device to this multi-port charger and let it do its thing.

This is a space saver and one of the most practical RV gadgets out there.

Headlamp // PETZL Tikka Outdoor Headlamp

Another great overlooked RV gadget is an LED headlamp. They are versatile enough that you can use them for the same purposes as a flashlight and yet you can keep your hands free to do what you need.

Whether you’re just walking around the campsite at night or need to illuminate dark areas you’re trying to reach inside your RV or engine bay, a good headlamp like this will earn its keep in no time at all.

Water-Saving Shower Head // Oxygenics Shower Head

Swapping out your standard RV showerhead for one of these by Oxygenics will be a game-changer when it comes to being frugal with your water.

You don’t want to waste precious water in your motorhome, travel trailer or fifth wheel when it comes to showering because you only have so much water and grey tank storage.

These showerheads are ergonomic and you can control the flow of water with the click of a button.

Handheld Vacuum // Shark UltraCyclone Pro

While some people consider a vacuum nonessential for RV life, we wouldn’t travel without one. Whether you are traveling with dogs, have kids or just want a quick way to clean up the camper – a handheld vacuum solves all of this for you.

We’re fans of this vacuum because it charges quickly, is lightweight and stows away easily.

READ NEXT: If you’re interested in shopping for other RV vacuums, check out our buyer’s guide for our other top RV vacuum options .

RV Mattress // ZINUS 10 Inch Ultima Memory Foam Mattress

Whether you’re buying a new or used RV, one of the first things you’ll want to consider is replacing the existing RV mattress.

We’re big fans of these memory foam mattresses and recommend the thickest one you think will fit in your RV.

We add a foam mattress topper to ours for the perfect night’s sleep!

Air Compressor + Tire Gauges // VIAIR 300P Portable Compressor

An air compressor is one of those RV accessories that combines safety and recreation into one.  

Whether you’re reinflating tired from going offroad, topping off your tires from time to time, or simply filling bike tires and water toys an air compressor will add value to your life on the road.

We used to carry a larger pancake compressor until we discovered Viair.

READ NEXT: If you’re interested in a different air compressor, be sure you read the best RV air compressors in our Expert Buyer’s Guide before you buy an air compressor!

Generator // Honda 2200

If your RV comes with an onboard generator, great! If not, you’re going to want to consider a generator for backup power particularly if you plan to spend any amount of time boondocking. 

Generators will give you the extra energy you need to run larger appliances such as air conditioners and microwaves. But more commonly, a generator is a great way to keep your battery bank topped off especially if you do not have solar installed.

A solar generator is a great alternative to traditional gas or propane generators.

READ NEXT: Check out our expert buyer’s guide on the best RV generators on the market.

RV Kitchen Essentials

Although your RV kitchen will likely be many times smaller than what you’re used to, you can still turn it into a fully functional space where you can cook your favorite meals.

These are our top recommendations for your RV kitchen based on our years of trying to make the most of our love for cooking food on the road.

Pressure Cooker // Instant Pot

An Instant Pot has recently become one of the top must-have RV kitchen items for RVers of any level. It is a great crossover kitchen appliance you can use at home and in your RV.

Cook all sorts of meals in your Instant Pot and keep it clean with minimal effort. There are also several Instant Pot sizes from which to choose. We opted for the smallest 3-qt size to save space.

Of course, be mindful of the fact you’ll need quite a bit of electricity to power it.

Coffee Maker // AEROPRESS Coffee and Espresso Maker

The Aeropress is our absolute favorite travel coffee maker. Check out this post for all of the reasons why we think you should invest in one for your RV.

It is a unique coffee maker in that you do not need to have electricity to use it. Combining the functions of a french press and a percolator, all you need to do is add hot water and you’ll have delicious coffee instantly.

It’s easy to use and packs away in a small space to travel with you wherever you go.

READ NEXT: Check out our Expert Buying Guide for the best RV coffee makers if you want to research other great options!

Magnetic Knife Rack // SimpleUsefulThings 16 inch Wood Professional Magnetic Knife Strip

We call this a magnetic “knife” rack, but really it’s simply a magnetic bar that you can attach anything metal to. We use it for our knives, but also for magnetic spice holders.

Save space, add another layer of texture to your kitchen and, of course, make your knives easily accessible.

Blender // Magic Bullet Blender

One of our favorite RV gadgets, the Magic Bullet blender is a great addition to your kitchen appliances because it is small, yet packs a punch, and is easy to clean.

Whether making fruit smoothies in the morning or crafting a delicious pesto sauce, the Magic Bullet leaves no regret for adding it to your RV kitchen.

Cast Iron Skillet // Lodge 10-1/4-Inch Pre-Seasoned Skillet

Cast iron skillets have long been praised for their versatility in indoor/outdoor kitchen settings.

This is what makes it a great addition to your RV kitchen as you will find yourself cooking in both places – sometimes at the same time! Some of your favorite RV recipes likely call for cast iron skillets.

And while anything cast iron is bulky, just know it’s worth the investment and weight in your RV!

READ MORE: You can find every RV kitchen essential in THIS POST . See what you need and why we consider each item essential to your RV life on the road.

RV Campsite Setup Must-Haves

One of the joys of RV camping is setting up your “home away from home” at the campsite. Having the right gear makes hanging out at the campsite comfortable and setting up and breaking down quick and easy.

These are our top recommendations for your campsite.

Foldout Camping Chairs // Amazon Basics Zero Gravity Folding Chair

You can’t camp anywhere without camping chairs! We find that these foldout chairs are the best overall value.

From comfort to convenience they pull out and pack away easily and are some of the most comfortable camping chairs you can find.

Foldout Table (Small) // Sunnyfeel Folding Camping Table

While some camping chairs include a small foldout table for holding small things, we absolutely love this small foldout table that is quick to set up and break down.

It can be easily moved around the campsite and holds just enough of the things we use the most.

From coffee cups and plates to tablets and books, you’ll find you likely start and end your day using this table.

Sandless Mat // CGEAR Sand-Free Mat

Don’t track sand around your RV. A sand-free mat like this is literally the foundation of your campsite. Unroll this mat at the foot of your RV door and set up the rest of your campsite around it.

Having a small broom or handheld vacuum near the door helps us get rid of any sand that happens to escape this mat.

USB Speakers // Anker Soundcore Waterproof Speaker

Your RV or travel trailer may have an outdoor entertainment center. But many do not.

We love these USB speakers because they are portable, last a long time between charges and are loud enough to fill the ambiance if the sound of crickets and campfires isn’t your thing!

Propane Fire Pit // Camp Chef Portable Fire Pit

A new addition to our RV must-haves list, this portable propane fire pit is one of the best RV gadgets that comes in handy virtually anywhere.

Whether you travel to areas with fire bans, don’t want to pay for expensive firewood or simply enjoy the convenience of ending the campfire with the turn of a propane nozzle rather than waiting for the ashes to burn out, this fire pit is for you!

READ MORE: We have lots of other great campsite recommendations. Check out our comprehensive list of campsite gear and tips and tricks for your RV Campsite setup in THIS POST .

RV Outdoor Kitchen Must-Haves

An important part of your campsite setup is an outdoor kitchen. Whether you keep it simple and stick to grilling on a fire pit or enjoy a more comprehensive outdoor kitchen setup, we recommend you consider these camper accessories as the basics to your kitchen setup.

Propane Grill or Griddle // Blackstone Griddle

The secret is out of the bag among RVers when it comes to the Blackstone griddle. This one is by far our favorite RV grill and the centerpiece of your RV camping kitchen.

We’ve had a few propane grills in our years of full-time RVing and the Blackstone quickly became the best. It is the right size to both pack away and cook an entire meal on.

You can cook a variety of meals on the griddle and it’s quick and easy to clean and stow away.

READ MORE: Interested in other grills to take on your next camping trip? Check out this RV grill buyer’s guide we put together to help you find the perfect one!

Grill utensils // Grilling Accessories BBQ Grill Tools Set

Having a good set of grilling utensils makes the difference between struggling to cook on the grill or having a good time enjoying the experience.

This set is pretty much all you’re going to need in one concise package.

Foldout Table (Large) // Camco Aluminum Roll-Up Table

While you want a small foldout table to keep next to your camping chairs, a larger foldout table will be the cornerstone of your outdoor kitchen.

This one is large enough to fit most grills and griddles, plus allows you the space to prep your food and keep all of your grill utensils in one place. It’s hardy but lightweight enough to pack away easily.

Water Container & Water Dispenser // Brio 5 Gallon Reusable Water Bottle Container & CHIVENIDO Drinking Water Pump

Setting this water container and water dispenser on your outdoor kitchen table makes drinking water simple and convenient.

Plus it’s always nice to have water nearby for cooking and cleaning.

READ MORE: Check out this post for our complete list of outdoor kitchen must-haves.

Essential RV Power Items

Next, consider the fact that, while unpleasant, it is possible to live for extended periods of time as long as you have enough water and food. What makes this time unbearable would be also going without power. 

Understanding your RV power and electrical system is hugely important when you live out of your RV or travel trailer for any amount of time.

NOTE: Many of the power products we recommend can be purchased directly through Renogy in addition to the Amazon links provided. We encourage you to find the most competitive prices. Use coupon code “CALLEDTOWANDER” at checkout for a 10% discount when shopping directly with Renogy.

Solar Panels // Renogy 100 Watt Monocrystalline Solar Panel

Although you don’t necessarily need solar panels, we believe that no RV should hit the road without them, especially if you plan to go dry camping.

At this point in time, they are so reasonably priced, efficient and easy to install that there is really no reason to go without. We’ve never gone a day worrying about power.

READ NEXT: Want to shop for other options? Learn more about the best solar panels for RVs in this post.

Solar Charge Controller // Renogy 40A MPPT Solar Charge Controller

Solar charge controllers like this MPPT controller reduce the energy captured by the solar panels to levels that your batteries can handle.

You have various options for these. Depending on whether you purchase a solar panel package or buy components piecemeal, you may end up with a “good-better-best” controller.

We recommend this controller at the least to go with your Renogy panels. Again, everything is easy to understand and mostly plug-and-play. 

If you have multiple solar panels or are willing to spend a little extra on a more efficient controller you should consider purchasing an MPPT controller.

READ NEXT: Check out this buyers guide to learn about other solar charge controller options.

Power Inverter // Renogy 2000W Pure Sine Wave Inverter

Like solar panel systems, inverter options are limitless. We recommend having at least a 1000W inverter because it allows us just enough energy to power pretty much anything we want without requiring a substantial battery bank. 

Do mind the safety suggestions and installation advice concerning the distance, gauge and connections of the wire between the battery bank and the inverter. 

Every time we go “off-grid” we rely exclusively on our inverter to power the essentials. Small appliances like cell phones to larger appliances like our computers can be powered through our inverter. 

READ NEXT: If you are interested in other great inverter options, read our Expert Buyer’s Guide HERE .

Various Fuses // EPAuto Assorted Blade Fuse Set

Sometimes what seems to be the most difficult of electrical issues can turn out to be a simple blown fuse.

It’s good to have fuses of various sizes on hand. You are not likely to end up in an emergency if a fuse does go out on you before you can find a place with spares.

But these are so affordable and small that it just makes sense to keep them handy. 

Surge Protector // Progressive Industries 30 Amp Surge Protector

Having a surge protector like this one from Progressive Industries can provide peace of mind when it comes to keeping your electronic appliances in working order.

While most formal campgrounds in the US and Canada have reliable and steady shore power connections, if you travel south of the border you definitely want to consider adding a surge protector to your RV.

Automatic Transfer Switch // Xantrex PROwatt SW Auto Transfer Switch

If you’re just getting started with RVing you may not fully understand how power works or does not work, in your RV. When we were new we knew enough to have an inverter to power our devices when we were boondocking.

But we didn’t realize that this automatic transfer switch would allow us to use our power outlets even when we weren’t plugged into shore power.

It blew our minds and think it will be a game-changer for you too!

RV Must-Have Tools

Things break quite frequently when you RV. So whether you can make it to an (overly priced) RV repair shop or have to make a few quick fixes on the road, these RV must-haves will keep you safe and allow you to get where you can make proper repairs as necessary.

Whether you RV full time or only on the weekends, it’s advisable to keep the following tools handy.

Multi-bit Screwdriver // CRAFTSMAN Ratcheting Screwdriver Set

Almost everything these days is assembled using screws of some kind. Having a screwdriver with multiple heads will allow you to manually remove/replace screws of all types.

This is easily our most-used tool and why we consider it an RV must-have in your tool kit. 

Ratchet Set // DEWALT Socket Set

Aside from screws, nuts and bolts of various sizes hold your life together when you are on the road in your RV. From this standpoint, having a good ratchet set and/or a few different pliers will come in handy. 

Because we used bolts as we custom-built our flatbed truck camper ensuring that we could tighten/loosen them at times is imperative to the general operation of our truck and camper. 

Wrench Set // Craftsman Ratcheting Wrench Set

While ratchets can get the job done quickly most of the time, sometimes you need a flatter-profile wrench to help tighten down a hard-to-reach nut.

We keep a set of both standard and metric size ratcheting wrenches just for that purpose.

Eternabond Tape // EternaBond RV Sealant Tape

Eternabond is the best heavy-duty tape to count on if and when you need to stop or prevent leaks in your RV.

We primarily use it preventatively to cover up the screws and holes prior to resealing our roof with Henry’s Tropi-Cool roof sealant. We have even used it to patch our awning.

But it comes in handy for sealing up leaks pretty much anywhere.

Duct Tape // Gorilla Black Duct Tape

Duct tape is great for short-term repairs and holding things together until you can make a more permanent fix. But it’s not good for long-term solutions – especially outside where the sun can cause it to stick to the paint/roof of the camper.

We have used duct tape to secure a tarp over our camper when hail destroyed our vent covers. And we have attempted to use tape to cover our refrigerator vent when we lost ours on the highway. 

You can’t go wrong adding a roll of duct tape to your camper accessories.

Zip Ties // Cable Matters 200 Self-Locking 6+8+12-Inch Nylon Zip Ties

Zip ties belong on the list of RV must-haves because they are so simple and versatile (and affordable). Most of the wiring in your RV is likely to already be zip-tied and neatly tucked into crevices.

But if you ever have to work on any part of your electrical system (which is likely, if not inevitable) you will likely want to bind the wires together again using zip ties. 

You can also make handy items from zip ties, such as key chains. Or you can connect loose items together, such as tools and kitchen utensils. 

READ MORE: A good RV tool kit is important for your safety and convenience. Check out this post for everything you should include in your tool kit.

RV Safety Essentials

While you may or may not think about the importance of having (properly functioning) safety equipment in your RV, we’d recommend you put it near the top of your list of things to buy.

Do a quick inventory of your RV and check the date, batteries and/or other power sources and general condition of each of these items.

First and foremost you need to make sure you have the following 3 alarms installed, powered up and working correctly before you even leave your driveway.

LPG Alarm // Safe T Alert 40-442-P-WT Propane/LP Gas Alarm

Your liquid propane gas alarm is required by law and typically located at a low point in your RV. Usually, they are hard-wired to your battery so they are always functioning.

Having a working LPG alarm is important since most of your major appliances run on propane and over time they may be prone to leaking.

Smoke Alarm // First Alert Combination Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector

Smoke alarms are incredibly affordable for the peace of mind they provide in knowing that you are safe in your tiny home.

We have multiple smoke alarms in our Class C RV to ensure that we have the warnings in place regardless of where we’re spending time.

CO Alarm // Kidde Carbon Monoxide Detector

A carbon monoxide (CO) alarm is essential to your safety. As CO is odorless, without a CO alarm you won’t know you’re exposed to it until you pass out – which can lead to death.

You can often find combination alarms where the CO alarm is part of either the propane alarm or the smoke alarm.

Fire Extinguisher // First Alert HOME1 Fire Extinguisher

Fire extinguishers are also required by law. But ones like these are affordable and tuck away nicely in your RV so they are accessible but out of the way.

We have 2 of these in our RV within reach no matter where we may be.

First Aid Kit // Essentials Soft-Sided First Aid Kit

First Aid kits can have all sorts of bells and whistles. The important thing is to make sure they include the basics – antibiotic cream, bandaids/bandages, antiseptic and Tylenol.

We like this kit because it has everything you need in one spot.

Dash Cam // Rove R2-4K Dash Cam

While we love using our Dash Cam to capture memories of the road, these are also great investments in your safety because they can keep track of the world around your RV.

Whether you’re driving and have an accident or you use it for additional anti-theft security when you park – a good dashcam gives you all sorts of reasons to add it to your list.

Tire Valve Stem Extenders // 2pcs Valve Stem Extension Adaptors

If you have a dual-rear-wheel axis (“dually”) you’ll want to add these valve stem extenders to your rear tires. Reaching your rear inner tires is difficult.

And since you want to check the tire pressure regularly and fill up as needed, accessing your dually tires is important for your safety.

READ MORE: We have lots of other great RV safety recommendations as well as tips and things to consider about RV safety in this post.

RV Emergency Roadside Kits

While being mindful of your RV maintenance is important for your safety, there’s always a chance you’ll break down somewhere along the road.

These are our top recommendations for items we suggest you pack in your RV emergency roadside kit.

20-ton Bottle Jack // Torin 20 Ton Bottle Jack

Depending on the size and weight of your RV, you’ll want to consider having at least a 20-ton bottle jack to help you in a bind.

They are easy to use and heavy-duty enough to be reliable and safe when you need to change a flat tire or do any other routine maintenance on the road.

Jumper Cables // Cartman Booster Cable

Jumper cables are one of the classic items found in any emergency roadside kit.

We like these jumper cables because they are heavy duty enough for large engines and versatile for helping out anyone else you may come across who needs a jump.

READ NEXT: Check out this post to learn about other great RV air compressor options.

Emergency Roadside Kit // Car Roadside Emergency Kit

Having a pre-packaged emergency roadside kit is a good idea for any occasion.

Kits like these include all of the things you’ll want to rely on in the event you find yourself on the side of the road.

Emergency Roadside Insurance // GoodSam Roadside

We had a pretty major breakdown once and had to rely on our auto insurance company to tow our truck camper a short distance to the nearest mechanic.

While the company is one of the top national insurance companies, unfortunately working with them on our towing claim was difficult because they didn’t really understand RVs.

GoodSam Roadside fills in the blanks for all things related to RV breakdowns and is incredibly affordable at that.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Tire Safety

Because every RV is different, we can’t recommend one size to fit all. However, we keep a full-size mounted spare tire in good condition at all times (We rotate it when we have our tires rotated and balanced). You also want to keep a mindful eye on your tire pressure and check it regularly.

In addition to our standard-issue bottle jack, we also carry a 20-ton hydraulic jack capable of doing its own heavy lifting. 

Both of these came in handy when we had a flat tire on the Dalton Highway at the very top of Alaska! 

You should never travel without a mounted spare tire (that you inspect from time to time) or a jack. So even if you do not know, or are unable, to change a tire – it is likely someone will stop to assist you. 

For added insurance, consider joining an RV club such as Escapees or GoodSam Roadside where you can purchase very affordable roadside assistance tailored to the RV community. 

READ MORE: Check out everything else you need for your Emergency Roadside Kit in THIS POST .

RV Boondocking Essentials

We love boondocking. So pretty much all of the items we’ve recommended above are part of our planning to be able to dry camp anywhere.

But in particular, we recommend that you consider the following items if you plan to spend any amount of time boondocking.

Reliable RV Batteries // Renogy Deep Cycle AGM Battery 12 Volt 100Ah

Having the best RV battery bank is one of the first investments you should make in your RV. When we started out we had mediocre Flooded Lead Acid (FLA) batteries.

We later upgraded to more durable and affordable AGM batteries. But now that lithium batteries are much more affordable and efficient we recommend these batteries at the minimum.

READ MORE: Be sure to check out our Expert Buyer’s Guide when shopping for the best lithium ion RV batteries .

Fantastic Fan // Fan-Tastic Vent RV Roof Vent

An overlooked part of boondocking is simply creating airflow in your camper. This Fantastic Fan is our favorite rooftop fan for either pulling in or pushing out air from the camper.

They’re affordable, easy to install and run on very little energy – which is important when you’re boondocking.

Cell Phone Booster // Weboost Cell Phone Signal Booster

You don’t need a cell phone booster. You’ll find that you will have cell service in most places across North America.

But we think it’s a great idea to have a WeBoost cell phone extender especially for boondocking so you can stay connected/reconnect in the event of an emergency.

We had to rely on our WeBoost when we were stranded in Glacier National Park and were able to get just enough cellular service to call for help.

Portable Power Bank // Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 240

Energy storage and use is one of the top priorities in boondocking. So while you want to have the best RV batteries, solar panels and a generator for powering your RV, this portable power bank is another great way to store energy that you can use to charge your cell phone, laptop or other USB devices when you’re boondocking.

READ MORE: Find out all of the things you need and lots of tips and tricks about boondocking in THIS POST .

The Bottom Line About RV Must-Haves

RVers of all walks of life will have his or her own list of RV essentials and RV gadgets. But what they often fail to keep in mind is that not every RV is created equal.

The items you pick and choose to keep as your RV must-haves must fit your circumstance – not ours or anyone else’s.

That said, we wish you safe and happy travels as you head out on your RV adventure! Let us know which items we may have left off and we’ll add them to our list!

About Author

Christopher Harvey

Christopher Harvey is the co-founder and main copywriter for Called To Wander. His passion is to create content that engages and informs readers and helps them to pursue the Abundant Life on the Road. Aside from writing, he also edits videos for the YouTube channel. He has freelanced for a variety of publications and consults with different brands on SEO and content strategy.

See author's posts

• Types Of RVs
• Tow Vehicles
• Maintenance & Repairs
• RV Power & Electrical Supplies
• RV Appliances
• Living In An RV
• Travel & Destinations
• RV Gear Buyer’s Guides

Must Have RV accessories & Supplies for a new travel trailer or camper

• Last Updated: March 11, 2024
• 68 minutes read

About Author / Aaron Richardson

Aaron Richardson is an expert RVer and the co-founder of RVing Know How. Aaron, along with his wife Evelyn, has been living and traveling in their Keystone Fuzion RV since 2017. Their adventures span across the country and beyond, including memorable RVing experiences in Mexico. Aaron's passion for the outdoors and RVing shines through in his writings, where he shares a blend of travel stories, practical tips, and insights to enhance the RV lifestyle.

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20 Essentials to Keep in Your Travel Trailer

Packing up the trailer to leave on a camping trip is arguably one of the most stressful parts of the entire process, especially if your trailer is brand new. You’re taking it out for the first or second time. You walk into your nearest camping store, your local Wal-Mart, or even Target, and you’re faced with a million different options. Even worse, they make you feel like you need all of it. Online RV packing lists can seem overwhelming, too – there are essential items on those lists. Still, it can be hard to decipher what you need and what the best RV accessories are.

What to Know

Before you spend your life savings on travel trailer accessories and outdoor gear, take a step back and think about the essential items. Of course, there are a few staple items you should always keep in your camper to be safe. Still, in reality, you probably won’t need extra throw pillows on the couch or a sleeping bag onesie. When you go back to the basics and get only the right gear, you’ll have a much better camping experience with less clutter and more room to have a great time. You have limited space, so make the most of it and don’t pack too much stuff.

We have you covered if you’re a new RV owner and are unsure what you’ll need. Start with this checklist to get your travel trailer ready to hit the road! And don’t worry, if you forget something, you can always make a stop or two on the way to your destination. Here are 20 RV essentials to bring on your next trip!

1. First Aid Kit

Having a fully stocked first aid kit in your travel trailer is always a good idea. You never know when an accident could happen, and being prepared will make your life easier when someone gets hurt. So keep it in a place with easy access, just in case!

2. Surge Protector 

If you’re going to a campground with hookups, you’ll want to use a surge protector no matter what. It will protect your travel trailer in case of faulty outlets and lighting, saving you money on repairs down the road. Nothing can ruin an RV trip faster than an electrical system malfunction!

3. Water Tank Essentials 

If your travel trailer has running water, pack all the essentials you’ll need for cleaning out your gray and black tank properly. The dealership you purchase your trailer from should give you the rundown on exactly what you’ll need. If you’re unsure, do some additional research or call us. Ensuring it’s done correctly is vital to your trailer’s long-term survival! In addition, you’ll likely need a freshwater hose, a water pressure regulator, and chemicals for your black water tank.

4. Toilet Paper

You can buy RV-friendly toilet paper from any camping store or travel trailer dealership. However, using regular toilet paper in your camper can cause damage to your septic system, so make sure to have this specific type on hand. 

5. Electrical and Duct Tape 

You’ll most likely need electrical or duct tape during your camping adventures. So keeping them stocked in your camper trailer will come in handy when you need them for an emergency! 

6. Basic Tool Kit 

You never know when something will break, a screw will come loose, or you’ll need to make a minor repair. An essential tool kit on hand will save you headaches and trips to the store while camping. You’ll also want to bring a cordless drill, just in case. Having an emergency roadside kit on hand is also a good idea.

7. Flashlights

Lighting is self-explanatory, and having flashlights in your trailer is a great idea. Especially if you’re boondocking and you don’t have the luxury of a campground with lights. Keeping a few headlamps in your trailer is also a good idea! 

8. Extra Blankets 

There’s a good chance you’ll have some cold weather while camping – even in the warmest summer months. So keep a few extra blankets in your trailer to ensure everyone stays warm on those chilly nights and mornings. If you don’t have much room, store your blankets in the lower storage spaces.

9. Dish & Hand Soap 

It’s frustrating when you want to start washing dishes after a meal and realize you forgot the soap. Keeping a few bottles stocked in your travel trailer will prevent you from running into this problem and keep you from having to make a trip to the closest grocery store. 

10. Extra Towels 

Make sure to keep extra shower towels and beach towels in your trailer. It’s one less thing you must remember when packing for each trip, and it never hurts to have a few extras. Just wash them when you get home and immediately take them back into the trailer. You’ll never have to think about it and always have clean towels while camping! 

11. Paper Products 

Before your first camping trip, stock up on paper plates, bowls, plastic utensils, napkins, straws, and anything else you think you’ll need during mealtimes. Remembering to bring these every time is a pain, so having them stocked in your RV kitchen will save you headaches and time. If you want to make things even easier, keep a crock pot and instant pot in your trailer.

12. Non-Perishable Food

You can keep non-perishable food items in your trailer, like pancake mixes, cake mixes, cereal, pasta, drink mix packets, s’more ingredients, baking items, and freeze-dried meals. These are perfect RV food items in your new camper that will last a long time.

13. Spices 

For non-perishable food items, get some salt, pepper, and staple spices like garlic powder and onion powder to keep in the trailer. There’s nothing worse than packing all your food and realizing you forgot the herbs and spices when you go to make your first meal! 

14. Rain Gear

You never really know when a storm could strike while camping, so having some extra rain gear is always a good idea. 

15. Bedding 

Pillows, blankets, and sheets would be a must when camping, especially if your travel trailer didn’t come with them. Get comfortable bedding you’ll enjoy sleeping in for a more enjoyable camping experience! 

16. Phone Chargers 

Phone and smartwatch chargers are another excellent staple to keep in the trailer if you don’t want to worry about packing them. Even if you don’t have service where you’re going, you’ll still want your cell phone to capture all the fun memories. 

17. Toiletries 

These products are essential no matter where you are: toothbrushes, toothpaste, face wash, body wash, shampoo, conditioner, bug spray, sunscreen, and any other toiletries you’ll need in your travel trailer. In addition, Target and Wal-Mart have great travel-sized options.

18. Hammocks & Chairs 

You’ll need somewhere to sit while relaxing outside, and hammocks and camp chairs are great options. Store them in the compartments under the trailer to save space! 

19. Games 

Indoor and outdoor games are always fun to have on hand, so get a few of your favorites and keep them in your trailer. It’s a great way to pass the time while having fun with friends and family. 

20. Fire Extinguisher 

Lastly, ensure quick access to a fire extinguisher in an emergency. Hopefully, you’ll never need it, but it doesn’t hurt to have one on hand. 

Stocking the essentials in your trailer will make packing and leaving easier for everyone. If you’re looking for camper trailers for sale, reach out to Oliver Travel Trailers . We have everything from small to luxury travel trailers, so you can find something to meet your specific needs. Reach out to our team today to see what we have available!

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25 Beginner Supplies and Accessories for Travel Trailer Camping

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Thanks for your support! If you make a purchase using our links in this article, we may make a commission. And, as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. See the full disclosure here .

Hubby and I got our first travel trailer last September and were only able to take it out once before we put it into storage for the winter, but I’ll tell you what, I wish I would we would have had the list of 25 Beginner Tips and Accessories for Travel Trailer Camping before we went out for our first venture! LOL!

We have rented pop-ups in the past when we would go to our annual family reunion in Michigan, and they usually came with everything that we needed. If they didn’t, there was always someone at camp that had what we needed since we travel over 1400 miles one way to spend the week with all of our extended family.

I want to share with you a very short, but important list of items that you will want to make sure you have before you take your travel trailer out for the first time. I would suggest writing everything down. I know we all like to think, “oh, I’ll remember that!” On our first trip, we had 1 full sheet of things we wanted to make sure we put in the trailer, but thank goodness we had that same pad of paper with us in the camper!  We ended up writing down another half page of items we want to make sure we bring on the next trip.

1. RhinoFlex Rhino Blaster Sewer Tank Rinser

Rinsing our black water tank after dumping has always been a hassle. It took forever to fill the black tank with water to flush it out. We would have to hold the toilet valve open or drag a hose through the RV window to fill the black tank through the toilet.

But now flushing the black (and gray) water tank is super easy. We just use the Rhino Blaster and connect a hose to it to quickly and easily fill and flush the black water tank.

The key is to buy the Rhino Blaster with the Gate Valve . RhinoFlex sells the Blaster without the gate valve for less money, but without it, you can’t fill your black tank because the water is pouring down the sewer hose at the same time you are shooting water into the black tank. Anyway, this is a great item that has made maintaining our black tank way easier. We absolutely recommend this product!

If you are going to be dry camping and not “glamping” you want to make sure that you have enough gas to keep your generator running when it needs to be running.   We like this gas can because of its no-spill spout. It may cost a little bit more, but it’s worth it.  You can tip the can vertical, insert the spout into the generator opening, then press the button to begin and control pouring. To stop pouring simply release the button. Practically eliminates spills and overflows.

3. Cordless Drill and ¾ Inch Socket 

We suggest having a separate ¾ inch drill socket and cordless drill specifically for the travel trailer.  It is essential that you keep the battery charged all the time and have it located in a place where it can be easily accessed when you pull up to your campsite.  We have our cordless drill placed in the under-belly storage so that when we park we can hop out of the truck and know exactly where the drill is so that we can lower the leveling jacks.  Bring your cordless drill with this bit attached to it and you can zip your jack stands up and down effortlessly.

4. Leveling Blocks

We found these excellent leveling blocks  that my husband really likes.  They are more convenient than wood blocks because they interlock with each other and are easy to store. These leveling blocks allow you to stack the interlocking blocks to the desired height for easy leveling.

5. Wheel Chocks

Wheel chocks are very important!  Once you have your travel trailer parked, you want to make sure that you have your wheels chocked, so the trailer doesn’t roll on you once you disconnect it from your vehicle. You definitely need to chock your trailer wheels. We found these wheel chocks , they are heavy-duty, solid rubber.

6. 3 Foot Level

Once you have your travel trailer parked, you want to make sure that it is level, so you are not rolling off the bed while trying to go to sleep.  We suggest getting a 3-foot level to make sure you are level front to back, and side to side. A 2-foot level is too short to measure accurately and a 4-foot level is too long to store easily. We find that a 3-foot level is perfect. Also, check out our articles called  How To Level a Travel Trailer on a Slope  for some great tips on how to quickly and easily level up your travel trailer.

7. Outdoor RV or Travel Trailer Patio Mat

Unless you want to follow everyone in and out of your travel trailer around with a broom, you should invest in an outdoor RV or travel trailer outdoor patio rug.  We chose this one because it is large enough to cover most of the side of our trailer. We take our Skye Bird with us and as I’m sure you know, dogs can and will drag in lots of dirt and grass on their paws.  By putting this large outdoor patio area rug out in front of our stairs and under the awning, she will lay here instead of on the dirt, weeds, or grass helping to keep that stuff from traveling into the trailer with her.  

Same goes for our shoes, right? When we go camping, we are walking around on dirt and gravel for the most part, and having the outdoor RV rug to wipe our feet on before entering the trailer helps keep most of the dirt out.  Another great thing about this particular rug is the carrying bag! This allows for easy cleanup and storage.

8. Heavy-Duty Nitrile Gloves

Whenever you are dumping your holding tanks you want to be sure to wear gloves to avoid contact and keep clean. The cheap latex gloves you can buy at the pharmacy or your grocery store just won’t cut it.

There are a few things to consider before buying gloves. First of all, they should be nitrile and not latex. Nitrile is more puncture resistant than latex and there are no latex allergy concerns with nitrile, which is a synthetic rubber product.

Second, your gloves should be heavy-duty and long enough to cover your wrists . I suggest at least 6 mils in thickness but 8 mil is better. The last thing you want is for your glove to rip while working with your sewer hose. And I also recommend the 9 1/2″ length of the glove so it covers your wrist, as well as, your hand.

Third of all I recommend disposable gloves. They are very inexpensive and you won’t have to clean them after every use. Just use them and lose them.

I like the neon orange 8 mil nitrile gloves by Gloveworks. They have great reviews and they have a diamond grip pattern in the glove too. They work great.

9. Rechargeable LED Headlamp

You can’t always pull into your campsite during the daylight hours, so it is good to have a rechargeable LED headlamp . The key is to make sure your headlamp meets these four criteria.

• It’s Rechargeable
• It’s Waterproof
• It has a strap that goes over the top of your head so it doesn’t constantly slide down your forehead.
• It has a red light so you can use it when star gazing or fishing at night.

Trust me I know! I’ve owned about 5 different headlamps over the years.

10. Folding Camp Table

We suggest getting an outdoor table for the convenience factor.  For instance, if you have stuff that doesn’t need to be brought in every night, i.e., coffee maker, stainless steel coffee cups, paper plate holders, flashlights, etc. you can leave them on the outdoor table , and they can be easily found the next time you’re ready to use them.

And you can put your cooler full of cold beverages underneath it. The outdoor table is also convenient for prepping your meals. We chose this outdoor table because it is lightweight, durable, and collapses small enough to go into a carrying bag.

11. Universal Stove Top Cover

I don’t know about you but we definitely do not have enough countertop space in our RV. The sink is right next to the stove which leaves about 4″ of countertop space. Yikes! So, luckily we found this stovetop cover and now we have a place to set up the coffee maker and toaster in the morning or a place to put our cups if we want to pour a soda.

The great thing about this stovetop cover is that it is universal so you don’t have to guess if the stovetop cover will actually fit on your stove. We bought ours and used the template on the back to measure where to install the rubber cups that stick to the burner grates. It was very easy to install and now we have extra countertop space. And the rubber cups that hold it in place prevent it from squeaking too!

12. Paper Plate Holder

We all love the convenience of paper plates, right?  Especially if we are just doing burgers and hot dogs on the grill.  It is easy and convenient to grab paper plates for these quick and easy meals.  As we all know, some paper plates are not of very good quality, so we got some of these plastic paper plate holders .  Please keep in mind, paper plates are better than styrofoam plates.  Yes, styrofoam plates are a little sturdier than paper plates, but they are not good for the environment.  Plus with paper plates, when you are done eating you can just throw them into the fire pit, put your plastic holders on your outside table, and move on with your day!

13. Break-Resistant Plate and Bowl Set

We know how convenient the paper plates are while camping, but if you decide that you want to grill up some steak or boneless chicken, you should have a set of plates and bowls so that you can cut your meat without cutting the paper plate along with it.  My grandparents were avid RVers years ago and when we got our travel trailer my grandma highly suggested getting a Corelle Dish set .  This is the set she gifted us with for our “house warming gift” for the travel trailer.  The Cornelle dish set is made with a break, and scratch resistant patented Vitrelle glass technology.  They are lightweight and very durable. My grandparents had their set for over 30 years before they stopped traveling.

14. Propane Coffee Maker

No campsite is complete without a coffee maker!  We are passionate coffee drinkers, so we had to make sure that this was one of the first things we bought for the travel trailer. Many coffee makers are electric but this Coleman propane coffee maker runs on the stovetop so you don’t have to power up the generator to make your coffee. Just light the stove burner and you are good to go. Mike here at RVBlogger loves his coffee maker and says he doesn’t have to worry about quiet time to make some coffee.

15. Dutch Over Skillet Combo

We did not have a cast iron skillet set on our first venture out in the travel trailer, but I sure wish I did! Thank goodness our friends/neighbors had one! We were able to have sausage, bacon, and eggs for breakfast on our last morning out.  

We didn’t even pack a regular stove skillet, but we brought all the stuff for breakfast! This is another reason why it is essential to have a written down list! Lodge cast iron skillets are pre-seasoned and they really are the best. I suggest a dutch oven skillet combo for your first set because the lid for the dutch oven is also a frying pan. You’ll have all the bases covered.

16. Kitchen Utensil Set

We may have forgotten our skillet, but we were sure to bring our kitchen utensil set on our first outing! We found this excellent 38 piece utensil set  that has everything you should need in your travel trailer. Don’t forget to get measuring cups too!

17. Space Saving Tupperware Set

If you are anything like me and cook to feed an Army, there are sure to be left-overs!  We are a family of 7, and you want to make sure there is enough for everyone, and now that most of the kids are gone from home, I am yet to learn how to cut down my portion sizes to make just the right amount for the 2 of us.

We always have leftovers, so we decided to get these collapsible containers  so that they don’t take up too much space in our already small cabinets.  I like these ones, in particular, because they are silicone and are BPA free.

18. Water Pressure Regulator

An RV water pressure regulator is a small, but useful, device that keeps the psi of the water entering your RV down to a safe level to prevent plumbing pipes from developing pressure leaks.  What is the proper psi for your RV? The recommended water pressure for newer RVs is around 60 psi, and 50 psi for older ones.

The water pressure can vary quite a bit from campground to campground and without a gauge, you will have no idea what the water pressure is when water is entering your RV. You can try to guestimate the amount of pressure by adjusting the water spigot but you will regret that decision once you see a leak pop up.

Don’t make the mistake of just buying a water pressure gauge though. You want to buy an adjustable water pressure regulator with a gauge so you can know the water pressure and adjust it if necessary. Also, you will want to make sure you buy a safe brass product that meets the low lead requirements for safe drinking water.

19. Water Filter

A good water filter will not only make your water taste better but it will also make your water safer to drink. Water filters can remove the taste of chlorine, and also remove contaminants and sediment too.

When looking for a water filter try to find one that is in line, which means it connects between your freshwater hose and your RV. Also, try to find one with a flexible hose protector to prevent stress and strain on the hose connection points.

We like the Camco TastePure Water Filter with Flexible Hose Protector. It comes with the flexible hose protector and it’s a great value that will last all season!

20. Short Queen Sheet Set

I know, sounds silly to even have to write this down. However, this is another one of those things that we said, “oh, we should remember this!”  We didn’t remember until we were getting ready to leave the house! Thank goodness it is a queen sized bed, and we actually had some queen size sheets in the house.

FYI – a travel trailer queen sized mattress is actually a short queen so your queen sheets form the house will be too long to fit properly. If your good with that then great. If not check this short queen sheet out.  And a blanket is always good to have for those cool summer nights.

21. Over the Door Shoe Organizer

This doesn’t have to be for just shoes, either!  Yes, we had some shoes in it, but it is also a great place to store other things like flashlights, bathroom supplies, or even for adding a little bit more to your pantry space.  We like this shoe organizer  because it is made for narrow doors and for the oversized mesh pockets.

22. Zero Gravity Camping Chairs

We are camping, right?  Everyone needs to have their own chair to sit and relax in. I even suggest getting one for the little ones too! Camping chairs are collapsible and easily stored in the underbelly of the trailer. Zero Gravity Camping Chairs are great for sitting around the table and playing cards in the afternoon or sitting around the fire in the evening to roast your marshmallows for s’ mores!  And in case you’ve never tried one, zero gravity lounge chairs are the best for relaxing!

23. Duraflame Fire Starters

Whether you are dry camping or glamping, there is no guarantee that there is going to be firewood there and ready for use. We suggest getting a few bundles for just-in-case. The big problem is that most of the camp wood bundles contain unseasoned damp wood! But if you use a couple of Duraflame fire starters they will help the damp wood to ignite and burn better.

Most campers will want a fire in the evening or maybe in first thing in the morning when the temperatures are lowest to help warm up or keep them warm. The fire pit is my favorite place to hang out in the evenings with music playing in the background and just catching-up or meeting new friends.

24. Fresh Water Hose

If you are going dry camping, you need to make sure that you have a good, clean fresh water hose you can use to fill up your freshwater tank. You want to make sure that you tag this hose so that it can and should not be used for anything else.

25. Sewer Hose

I know we don’t want to talk about it, but we all do it. That’s right, we all use the toilet. If you are going to be filling up the black tank while you are camping, we would like to suggest this RhinoFLEX black tank sewer hose with clear elbows so that you can see when the tank has been dumped and cleaned out. This set comes with everything you should need to clean out your tank.

Going out your first time in a travel trailer can be so much fun. We want you to have fun on your trip, and this is why we want to help make sure you have everything you need. Like we mentioned before, it is imperative that you write it down . We all think we can remember everything, and I am sure I have forgotten something in this blog, but we will all forget something.  

For more great info about Travel Trailers check out these articles below.

• The Best SUV for a Towable Travel Trailer
• 250+ Perfect Names for Your RV or Travel Trailer
• Travel Trailer Depreciation: What’s My Travel Trailer Worth?
• Travel Trailer Turning Radius Tips
• What Size Generator Do I Need For a Travel Trailer?
• Toy Hauler vs Travel Trailer – 19 Differences Explained
• How To Level a Travel Trailer on a Slope

We would like to know your thoughts and if you forgot something on your first trip out in your travel trailer.  What would you recommend someone take with them that we did not mention here? Please leave your thoughts or suggestions in the comments section below. Thanks for reading this article and if you would like to email us directly, please visit our Contact Page to send an email.

6 thoughts on “25 Beginner Supplies and Accessories for Travel Trailer Camping”

Seems like important stuff, but, what should we leave at home for weight concerns, esp. in a tiny (Casita) trailer?

Hi Gary, It all depends on what you normally pack – I know we tend to pack more clothes than we will need and we have 5 sets of chairs on board…so anything that is redundant would be good to leave at home and I also recommend making sure all tanks are empty while traveling of course. Thanks for reading! Mike

If you take your dog or cat, don’t forget their bowls, food and toys, litter scoop, poop bags for the dog, a leash. And if you take your dog on walks get a collapsable bowl so you can give them a drink. And yes, we forgot dog food once. Thank you for your great tips.

Thanks for your tips! Mike

New to Rv-ing. You have a great blog – lots of good info. Would appreciate your letting us know where you obtained the windshield cover with screening

Very good information!! Good voice and clear information!! Thank u?⛺️

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RV Camping Essentials: 22 Must-Have Items

Packing for your first or next RV camping adventure can be stressful. But one of the best ways to beat the stress (and make sure you don’t leave anything behind) is by creating a checklist of must-have items for any camping adventure. It’s easy for this list to balloon to massive proportions, so don’t be afraid to start small and continue adding to it and subtracting from it over the first few trips. If you’re not sure where to begin, continue reading our list of 22 must-haves to ensure you hit the road safely and have fun.  

22 Must-Have RV Camping Essentials

When it’s time to stock up and pack your new (to you) RV , here are 22 RV camping essentials for beginners, professionals, and everyone in between. 

While the items in this section may not all be everyday essentials, you won’t want to be caught without them on any RV trip. Don’t leave any of these must-haves behind whether you’re venturing out overnight or for the long haul. 

1. Wheel Chocks 

Don’t risk your investment (and your home) rolling away! 

2. Leveling Blocks 

Making sure your RV is level is a crucial step in setting up camp. It’s important to look for the flattest area when parking, but use leveling blocks to fine-tune the details and prevent extra stress on the RV. 

3. Separate Hoses

One for gray water and one for drinking water. You’re not going to want to get these confused so make sure they’re labeled and, ideally, in different colors. 

4. Electrical Adapters and Extension Cords 

Not every RV park will have the same electrical outlet. You’ll want an adapter to go from 30 to 50 amps (or vice versa), so you can plug in anywhere. 

5. Regulators

You will need a surge protector to keep your electrical system safe in case of any fluctuations. Don’t forget a water pressure regulator as well to make sure the water coming into the RV has a safe amount of pressure as well — save yourself the splashes!  

6. RV-Friendly Toilet Paper

Having a bathroom on board is wonderful, but it’s different from the plumbing at home. RV-safe toilet paper is thinner and designed to break down quickly, so you don’t have to worry about it clogging your system. 

7. Water Filter

Take the extra step to filter water on its way into the RV to access safe, reliable drinking water. 

8. Tool Kit 

Eventually, something is going to break. It is handy to have some basic tools around to jump in for the easy things. Leave the bigger fixes to a professional if you are uncomfortable.

9. Flashlight / Headlamp 

Great for leaving the RV at night, but also in case of any outages or if you’re camping at a spot where you can’t plug in. Make sure you keep at least one or two in the RV’s storage , so they’re easy to access. 

10. Emergency Road Kit 

An emergency kit will contain jumper cables, tools to change a tire, reflective accessories, and possibly more to keep you and your passengers safe in case of a driving malfunction. 

11. First Aid Kit

Make sure this is stocked with basics like bandages, antibiotic ointment, and burn cream. Depending on where you’re headed, you may need to add more specific treatments according to the risks of your activities and the area. 

Bring a 5-gallon bucket. Maybe even two of them! Believe me, they’re incredibly handy whether you’re using them to transport water, wash clothes or dishes, or even as a portable toilet — you’ll be happy to have at least one of these on board. 

13. Protected Documents 

Have your crucial documents all in one place where they are easy to access, including your registration, insurance information, important numbers, reservation information, and even backup maps altogether. Many like to keep them in a large gallon-size storage bag to keep them waterproof as well. 

For Easy Livin’ 

These RV camping essentials add to the experience in a different way — they’ll make RV life feel a little cozier and add a few home-style comforts.

14. Pot Holders

It’s easy to remember plates and silverware, but sometimes the extra kitchen items get left behind. 

15. Trash bags 

Don’t leave these behind. You don’t have to bring separate bags — many RVers just use plastic grocery store bags in a small trash can as a solution for daily trash.  

16. Outdoor Camping Grill 

Cooking in the RV is great, but sometimes it can get very hot inside. Having the option to cook outside on a lovely day can help reduce the strain on your summer AC use. 

17. Reusable storage bags / Tupperware

Sometimes, you won’t be able to finish the meal. Make sure you bring several food storage items to keep unfinished food safe to eat another day. 

A small cooler can be stocked with drinks and/or snacks to keep them close at hand without going in and out of the RV. 

19. Camp Chair 

A place to sit outside for each person on board. You can’t guarantee that every campsite will have a picnic table, so bring your own collapsible chairs. 

20. Tablecloth

Make clean-up a little easier, or cover the outdoor picnic table with an easy-to-clean tablecloth and add a splash of personality to the campsite.  

21. Outdoor Rug & Doormat

You will need at least one of these to help keep mud, dirt, and leaves out of the RV. 

22. Indoor/Rainy Day amusements 

Most RVers are looking to get out and stay out in nature, but sometimes you have to shelter inside. Don’t forget the fun stuff to keep you busy when you can’t (or don’t want to) hang outside. 

This list is a great place to start when packing your RV , but this list is by no means exhaustive. If there’s something that you think is missing or an essential item for your family , then don’t hesitate to pack it and add it to your personal must-have RV list. The checklist you create for your specific style of camping will become your official checklist and an essential part of preparing to hit the road in your Cruise America RV rental .

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Travel Trailer Essentials : 25+ Basic Must Have Items

• BEGINNERS GUIDE / BUYERS GUIDE

G. Yoganand

Travel trailers are very popular way of RVing. You get smaller ones that are 10 feet long to those that can be 30 feet long. They serve wide range of people. We have been camping in our travel trailer for years.

We carry a long list of essentials and its almost impossible to go out there without them. You will go nuts if you don’t have these with you. The whole camping experience will be ruined if things aren’t falling in place.

Before you decide and start the travel, you need to ensure that you have all the essentials necessary to safely travel and camp in your RV.

There may be an external compartment to your RV that can only be accessed from the exterior, or you may need to make room inside to store these essentials.

However, don’t leave home without the following travel trailer essentials list, this is all a travel trailer or RV owner needs.

Leveling Blocks

Make no mistakes, if you do not have your travel trailer level on the ground, you will soon be aware of it. Your belongings will roll around, and you may possibly roll out of your bunk when you try to sleep.

This may sound like exaggeration, but your appliances like refrigerator can get affected due to this. Leveling your travel trailer at the campground should be your first step and most important step.

Although your RV may look level to the naked eye, it doesn’t take a great deal of discrepancy in order to be totally off kilter. Using a level when you are setting up will ensure that everything is exactly as it should be.

Power Station

A portable power station is a must have when you are traveling in your RV. It can jump start your dead battery, supply an air pump. It can also serve as a charger for your devices when you’re camped and setting up.

There are countless circumstances where having a portable power station is a lifesaver. It is definitely worth the money to invest in one of these handy pieces of equipment.

Triangle Emergency Reflector

The entire point of owning an RV or fifth wheel trailer is to get out on the open road and travel. It only makes good sense to own the safety equipment necessary to travel.

You never know what situation may call for you to be pulled over on the side of the highway. And in that circumstance, you want to ensure that any oncoming traffic can see you and your vehicle so that you can avoid being in an accident.

Power Adapters

It is absolutely necessary to have adapters with you. A lot of sites will not have the necessary connection to hook up your RV to the power supply. Without the adapter, you will be unable to connect and charge or power your travel trailer while you are camped.

Hitch Locks

By installing this lock, you ensure that someone can’t just pull up and hook into your RV and haul it away. This ensures that no matter where your travel trailer is parked, you don’t have to worry about it being hauled away by any person or company.

RV Water Filter

Even if you don’t plan to drink water from the tap in your RV, you will still want to install a water filter for the intake water line.

This will keep the water that you use to shower and wash dishes from smelling like the well that it is pulling from. It will also ensure that the majority of the silt and debris is filtered out of your water prior to bathing or washing dishes with it.

Its always best to put in a small filter between the campground water connection and the RV water inlet. This ensures no bad water will be introduced inside any of your RVs plumbing system.

Most of the times many of us assume that the water will be good. But, we have seen filters turning brown within like few days. So, don’t take it for granted, the filter wouldn’t cost much.

Surge Protector

Along the very same lines as the power adapters, you never know what sort of electrical service and connections the sites will be supplying.

Without a surge protector, you risk blowing fuses, and possibly damaging electrical systems or appliances in your RV by connecting to questionable power sources.

Placing a surge protector is one of most important step in your setup at the campground. You definitely don’t want a damaged TV or a refrigerator due to voltage spike. Don’t you?

Solar Motion Sensor Lights

By installing these on the exterior of your RV, you have lights that automatically turn on as you walk by them. They also serve as an early notification system when someone is approaching your RV.

Although your RV may be fitted with GPS, there is a reason to specifically own and use a Garmin system.

If you input your vehicle dimensions, Garmin will actually reroute you through your vehicle will be able to safely travel, instead of routing you through bridges and overpasses that you may exceed the weight or height limitations.

This will save you countless miles in backtracking and finding alternate routes manually once you reach a point that your vehicle is too large to cross.

Tire Pressure Monitoring System

An automated tire pressure monitoring system is invaluable in terms of keeping you from damaging your vehicle and wheels due to low air pressure or foreign objects in your tires.

They will alert you anytime there is a tire that is under inflated or flat, and this can save you time and money by rectifying tire problems before they damage your vehicle.

Waste Tank Wand

Attached to your hose and is used to blow out the waste tank. This ensures that you don’t end up with solidified waste inside of the tank.

Once waste solidifies, you’ll find that the odor is impossible to get rid of, and your sensor will no longer be operational, as the waste will have prevented the float from accurately gauging waste levels.

By blowing out the waste tank with the wand attachment, you can keep the waste from forming solid build up inside the tank and keep all of the tank freely draining when you attach the waste drainage hose.

Keep either a tube of silicone or liquid nails on hand to seal up minor air and water leaks in your RV.

Sewer Hose and Hose Rack

Not to ever be confused with the fresh water intake hose, this hose and rack is black to indicate that it is for the removal of sewer waste from your RV.

This should be at least 50 foot, due to the fact that many different sites have different setups as far as where the hookups for your RV will be located.

Hose Support

A support for holding tank hose is necessary. In some states there are rules around this as well. We always carry hose support with our travel trailer. This helps a lot in making sure the hose is moving the output smoothly. It makes sure the hose has one end at a slope or height.

We are most careful in dealing with grey and black tank hose. Accidents or spill over can happen any time and its always better to stay up to date and follow all the procedure step by step.

Other things that we normally do is wear glove while working with that hose. Using sanitizer after we are done and cleaning the hands are also part of our routine.

Step pads keep you from slipping and falling on slippery RV stairs. They also prevent all of the dirt and mud from being tracked into your trailer from outside.

Wheel Chocks

This is absolutely self explanatory. If you do not chock the wheels on your RV, chances are, you’re going to begin to roll, which could damage your leveling gear, and also any lines that you have attached, such as power and sewer. Just use a chock so that you don’t have to worry about the vehicle moving and causing any damage, or worse, hurting someone.

Cordless Drill

In addition to making small repairs in your RV, a cordless drill is a great way to move your stabilizing jacks up and down without wearing your arm out.

Fresh Water Hose

This is the hose to pump fresh water into your RV. You should have at least a 50 foot hose, as you never know how far the connections will be at the different sites that you camp. This will be the hose that you attach the water filter to.

Water Pressure Regulator

Due to the fact that RV’s and travel trailers aren’t known for having the most stable interior plumbing assemblies, you want to ensure that the water pressure isn’t going to fluctuate and damage some of the flex lines that are run in your RV.

By using a water pressure regulator, you can stop the surges and fluctuations that damage PVC and flex lines in travel trailer plumbing assemblies.

Read : Tips to improve RV water pressure

Wheel Covers

In order to prevent dry rot from occurring in your tires, cover your wheels when you are parked. The sun will do serious damage to your tires if you don’t protect them.

Toilet Treatment Tabs

These tablets go directly into your waste tank, and they help to break down the raw sewage being stored in your waste tank.

This helps to keep the waste from solidifying, and also from stinking up your entire RV due to human waste. They are similar to the tabs that are used in septic systems.

Propane Tank Gauge

You don’t want to run out of propane in the middle of heating your shower, or cooking. Without a tank gauge, you’ll constantly be guessing as to the level of propane that is left in your tanks.

Take the guesswork out of the scenario and invest in a propane tank gauge.

Don’t skimp on this. You want a good, high quality flashlight for a variety of reasons. Safety on the roadside, dark campsites, safety beaconing, the list is endless.

Boondocking in travel trailer essentials

If you are one of those boondocking Rver then be sure to check out the below list. Dry camping or camping without hook up needs special preparation. You wont have power hookup or electrical hook up and even no sewer hook up.

With this limitations you are supposed to adjust and plan accordingly. Below list of essentials will help you a lot.

Lithium battery

With no shore power your battery will be supplying power to your appliances. A lithium battery can last around 2000 cycles and thus you can charge it often. Having a good battery that holds charge will make sure you wont be left in dark at night.

You can get multiple batteries depending on your power needs. DC batteries can also be used to power AC appliances via an inverter.

Having a generator is a must when you are left without shore power. A generator can power almost everything inside the RV. Its a substitute to the shore power. Remember, your DC battery cannot power everything.

Read : Top 10 Generators for RV

It can only act as a power source for smaller appliances. Although, generator can provide you power they also come with cons, like they makes noise, their weight can be a problem. Generators will also need fuel to run. This brings us to our next essential, solar.

Solar panel system

Getting a solar panel can be your best decision. A lot of people aren’t sure how the solar works or they are not sure whether its good add-on due to the cost.

Solar panels can be installed on the roof and they can charge your DC batteries. Its only initial cost that you have to pay and later on its going to be free with minor maintenance.

Read : Solar or generator for RV

Remember, the solar panels will charge the batteries which can then be used to power the appliances. So, generator is still needed to power the bigger appliances.

Another source to run your appliances is propane. Your furnace or refrigerator can run on propane.

These appliances are best run using propane and therefore having a propane source is almost necessary.

Refrigerators run on both electricity and propane. So, when you aren’t connected to campground hookup propane is the best option.

Outdoor grill

We use an outdoor grill a lot while boondocking. Grilling is an amazing way to cook your meal. It also makes sure we are outside of the RV. So, if you love outside cooking then go for a grill.

Get a hammock and enjoy the outdoor while dry camping in a peaceful site. If you have kids then they are going to love it. Some of these essentials including the hammock will need setup but its going to be fun. Also, a hammock will not take any space to store.

Folding chairs and table

Get chairs and tables that are easy for folding. We do carry multiple chairs and table and do the setup outside the RV.

Commonly Used Tools To Have On Hand

Although you may never need some of the tools on this list, you will be in a great deal of trouble on the road if you need one of these tools and don’t have it. You can handle essentially any RV roadside emergency with this tool supplies in your RV.

• Ratchet and socket set
• Standard and Metric wrenches, varying sizes
• Adjustable wrench
• Needle nose pliers
• Wire Cutters
• Utility Knife
• Cordless Drill, Charger
• Drill bits and bit drivers
• Battery Filler (for refilling water) : For shooting distilled water into the small reservoir
• Gloves : For working on the battery, to prevent acid burns
• Safety Glasses : For working on the battery, to prevent acid burns
• Sandpaper :For cleaning off battery posts
• Funnels : For miscellaneous fluid replacement
• Tire Gauge (if you don’t have a tire monitoring system installed)
• Voltmeter : For testing site hookups and troubleshooting wiring issues inside RV
• Spare fuses : For replacements on both the RV and appliances
• Roof Repair patch : Leak repair
• Electrical tape :For any wiring repairs that must be performed
• Miscellaneous electrical/wire fittings : Common fittings for miscellaneous repairs
• Wire Stripper : For making miscellaneous wiring repairs
• Zip Ties : For emergency tie downs
• Plumbers Tape : For emergency plumbing repairs

Commonly used plumbing fittings : For emergency plumbing repairs

• Spray Lube (WD40)
• Shop Towels

Are all Tools Necessary?

Although you may not ever need the majority of the parts and tools on this list, you don’t want to be without this list of essentials just in case a problem should arise while you are out on the road.

You can perform most electrical and plumbing repairs, as well as any miscellaneous repair, on your travel trailer with this list of parts and tools.

Because of the questionable hook ups that you’ll sometimes find at campsites, it is a sensible move to carry the equipment to replace fuses, test electrical connections, and do small wiring repairs.

You never know when you’ll plug into a site’s power connection and blow a fuse, or cause a wiring problem with a power surge.

You should carry a fuse kit that will have spare fuses in essentially all of the common sizes. Any specialty appliance or RV fuses for your particular set up should also be carried with you in case of emergency.

Plumbing Repairs

RV plumbing is known to be easily ruptured or broken. Therefore, it is a safe bet that at one time or another, you will need to perform a plumbing repair while you are on the road.

You should carry a small amount of PVC piping, and some of the common fittings that are used in plumbing repairs.

The quickest way to ruin a good camping trip is to flood the entire RV due to broken plumbing. Many sites have questionable water pressure, and you can end up with unexpected pressure surges that can cause plumbing that is weak to rupture or leak.

You need to have the capability to do quick plumbing repairs or temporary fixes if plumbing problems should arise.

Carrying the essentials : Storage

A lot of RV’s and travel trailers have exterior storage compartments for tools and spare tires.

If you do have exterior storage on your RV, this entire tool list should fit quite easily inside of the storage compartment. However, if you don’t have exterior storage on your RV, you need to find room inside for the parts and tools on this list.

It is incredibly important to be prepared for any emergency that may arise while you’re on the road or at your campsite.

In Conclusion

Many of the items on the list may not always be needed. Many of you can still camp better without solar or any other thing on the list. The idea here is to list out all things that we have used or have missed. A RV awning can get torn any time during the camping and having necessary tool at that time only be good. You may have a tire that’s flat. Having set of tools and these accessories will be of help at the right time.

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55+ RV Essentials for Beginners

RV Essentials for Setting Up Your Motorhome or Travel Trailer

When you reach your destination and back into a campsite , here’s everything you’ll need to set up before you can start exploring:

• Wheel chocks
• Leveling blocks
• Jack crank handle (for RVs with manual stabilizing jacks)
• Shore power cord (if your RV didn’t come with one)
• Surge protector
• Potable water hose
• Water pressure regulator
• Clear 90° sewer hose elbow
• Disposable gloves for handling your sewer hose

A nice-to-have: a scissor jack socket adapter to use with a power drill for quickly and easily raising and lowering manual stabilizing jacks. Don’t use an impact driver, and never use stabilizing jacks to lift your trailer!

Download our complete RV setup and teardown checklist to track how you’ll use these RV essentials.

RV Essentials for Interior Living

With your RV properly leveled and stabilized — and water, sewer, and electric hooked up — you’ll need these RV essentials for comfortable living and strategic RV maintenance on each trip: 

• RV toilet paper
• Sewer chemicals
• Dishwashing supplies
• Shower essentials
• Laundry supplies
• Water/drinks

A nice-to-have: Adhesive hooks and hangers are great for creating hanging storage space, especially in smaller campers with limited drawers and cabinet storage.

RV Essentials for Outdoor Living

Some campers keep their outdoor living setup minimal. Others can be quite extravagant. These RV essentials for outdoor living will help you set up a comfortable yet reasonable outdoor living area at your campsite:

• Camp chairs
• Outdoor grill/griddle
• Folding camp table (not all sites have a picnic table)
• Portable firepit (not all sites have fire rings or allow wood fires year-round)

A nice-to-have: Insect repellants can make camping much more comfortable, especially in the spring in particularly mosquito-friendly environments.

RV Essentials for Boondocking

While most new RVers should begin by staying close to home in a campground with full hookups, you can use our guide to boondocking for beginners – and this list of essentials – to prepare for an off-grid adventure.

• Portable generator
• Solar kit (panels, charge controller, inverter)
• Portable power station
• Water container
• Portable waste tank

A nice-to-have: A rolling wagon will help transport your recreation items to the beach, riverfront, or a friend’s camp spot.

RV Essentials That Experienced RVers Can’t Live Without

In addition to the essentials listed above, experienced RVers told us they can’t live without the following: 

• Slip-on camp shoes with good traction
• A socket that fits your hot water drain plug
• A pad and pen to write down what you need or forgot
• Toolbox just for the camper
• Electric, plumbers, and duct tape
• Flashlight with batteries
• Canopy lights
• Small crockpot
• 800 thread count (or higher) Egyptian cotton sheets
• A good down comforter
• Cast iron skillet
• Fire starters
• Microwave-safe dishes
• Laundry basket
• Tabletop smoker
• Veggie peeler
• Potato masher

RV Essentials for Newbies: Advice From The Community

Our community also spoke up with their top tips for new RVers: 

Advice on Getting Started

“Learn your vehicle/trailer before you go out on a trip.” – AJ Riffice

“Make your first trip close to home. This will allow you to get things you forgot. Observe other campers when they set up and when they leave. This will help you improve your process. Talk with other campers. Ask them for things they do and things they have that are helpful. Make a list of things you need to get. Read and reread your owner’s manual. Make a list of things to do and things you need to learn.” – Steve Brown

“Do a test camp and see if you can figure out your water heater, your dump station routine, and what you need to be comfy when you sleep.” – CM McCullough

“Until you’re comfortable backing up, opt for pull-thru sites!! Even then, be aware of turning radius, etc…lest you knock down your site’s power pole or water fixture!!” – Steve Rogers

“Get an RV or camper with heated tanks for winter and a heat pump.” – Rhonda Hunt

“Replace the original mattress. Those factory ones are terrible.” – Matt Hawks

Here’s our guide to choosing the right RV mattress upgrade!

Advice on Pre-Trip Checks

“Check air pressure before you leave. Make sure all storage compartments are shut and locked. Do a walk around twice to make sure everything is hooked up correctly. Take paper plates to eat on. And a good coffee mug. The camping world will throw in decent chairs. Take only the clothes you will wear. short trips until you’re comfortable. Take what you think you will need for a short trip and look around at other campers. They will have things and set up things that you will get ideas from for the next time. Eventually, you will find your own groove. Take it slow and easy. Enjoy!” – Wyatt Kingrey

“Make sure propane tanks are full! Especially if it’s cold out!” – Joan Norkus

Advice on Packing

“The thing I learned for sure is that I need far less than I think I do.” – Aileen Lauer

“Boil your breakfast in a freezer bag. It’s a great omelette.” – Troy Davis

“Carry a notepad every time you camp. If you think about window coverings, write it down and get measurements. If you think of something that would be nice to have, write it down. Makes it so much easier if you keep a list.” – Mark Bowen

Advice on Campground Etiquette

“Talk to other campers who may know more than you! A handshake is a strong currency! And be courteous to your neighbors.” – Rick Krenz

“Don’t leave your dump valves open on your stay. (You’re camping neighbor also won’t like you) They are called dump valves for a reason!” – Karen Page

“Be nice!” – Rick Nixon

What Are the Best RV Blogs for Newbies?

We encourage you to view our full collection of RV resources here on the Camping World blog! 

But there are many other online platforms with loads of beginner-friendly advice. Here are a few of our favorites: 

• RV.com – A comprehensive resource for the latest RV industry news and RV reviews
• The Good Sam Blog – An excellent resource for trip planning and campground reviews
• Wildsam Magazine – Great for tips and advice to inspire your next road trip

Do you have any advice on RV essentials for beginners?

Share your thoughts in this Facebook poll . 

• Comment (2)

RV essentials Learn what all the weight limits are for your RV. Find and understand the weights placard on your RV and or tow vehicle.

Great advice, Jerry. That’s invaluable knowledge for anyone new to RVing.

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25+ Travel Trailer Must-Haves to Get on the Road Now

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Whether you’re a seasoned RV veteran or a new RV owner, you should have some travel trailer must-haves before heading out on a road trip.

If you’re not prepared, you could face a slew of different problems on your RV camping adventure. 

With over three years of RV living experience, I can attest that the appropriate travel trailer accessories can guarantee a seamless, comfortable, and secure RV trip, including items for:

• dumping your RV tanks
• leveling your rig
• getting power safely
• getting clean, fresh water

If this is your first RV, let this list of items for your camper serve as a checklist of the essentials you’ll need . It will give you everything required to maintain your RV travel trailer and handle almost any issue that arises while you’re on the road.

RV Dump & Sewer Essentials

Before your first time out in your travel trailer, you’ll need a few RV sewer essentials to empty and maintain your grey and black tanks.

Items #1 – 6 below are the RV must-haves for your holding tanks and the answers to why you need these essentials.

1. RV Sewer Hoses & Kit

A 10-foot RV sewer hose is a requirement for dumping your black water tank. You’ll also need a transparent 90-degree elbow adapter to see when the water from the tank is running clear after rinsing.

We carry two 10-foot sewer hoses but most often only need one to reach the sewer connection.

PRO TIP: When we’re further from the sewer connection, we use a small 2-foot sewer hose (shown above) combined with the 10-foot hose to get more length without needing another long hose. This makes the dump station process easier to manage.

2. rv sidewinder.

An RV hose support , also known as a ‘sidewinder,’ will allow you to set up your sewer hose to run downhill and keep everything moving in the right direction through your hose.

• Lightweight with a durable frame
• Fits a 10-foot hose

The sidewinder will also keep your sewer hose off the ground, out of the dirt, for a cleaner campsite breakdown.

3. Black Water Rinse Hose

When you finish cleaning your tank, use a black water hose to rinse out your sewer kit and components. If you have a black water flush system, you can also use this hose to rinse the inside of your black water tank.

• 5/8-inch diameter hose
• Heavy-duty design for rinsing black tank and clean sewer hose

You’ll see orange RV hoses that are marketed as black water hoses. These are orange, so you don’t confuse this hose with your other RV hoses (that would be bad).

PRO TIP: We use an old drinking water hose and mark it with colored tape to avoid mixing them up.

4. waterproof gloves.

Waterproof gloves protect your hands from contamination when dumping your black water tank and storing your sewer hoses.

• Flexible, dry work gloves with double-coated latex
• Sandy grip foam
• Available in sizes small to extra-large

We try to be green by using reusable waterproof gloves such as the ones above, but you can also use disposable gloves when dealing with you’re dumping your RV black tank.

5. Holding Tank Treatment

There are holding tank treatments for both the grey and the black tank. Black tank treatment is a must-have for RVing, while grey tank treatment isn’t always necessary to keep your tank smelling fresh. It’s more of a personal preference.

Here are the tank treatment options we use in our tanks.

There are many different black tank treatments available for RVs. We recommend avoiding enzyme treatments since they can create a “sludge” that coats your tank sensors and renders them useless. There are also treatment options available for making your own!

6. RV Toilet Paper

RV toilet paper is designed to break down in your black water tank to avoid clogs and paper covering your sensors.

We use the Scott RV toilet paper brand and have never had clogging issues in our RVs or when we lived on a boat.

• Quick dissolving toilet paper for RVs and boats
• Prevents clogging

You’ll hear a ton of advice from RV owners on which toilet paper to use or whether you should even put toilet paper in your RV tanks. No matter what type you choose, use it sparingly!

PRO TIP: You can also do a ‘shake experiment’ to test your favorite toilet paper brands. Check out this video on how to test your toilet paper .

Rv fresh water accessories.

Getting water on the road requires a few RV and camper must-haves to ensure you can put clean water into your water tank or run water straight into your RV plumbing system.

Items #7 – 10 below are RV necessities for fresh water access are below.

7. Water Pressure Regulator

When connecting to water sources using your city water connection (this is your campground or home water hookup), you want to control the pressure of water flowing into your RV.

RV campgrounds often have water pressure set to a level higher than your RV can handle.

A water pressure regulator will help you prevent stress on your plumbing components and leaks in your RV.

• Adjustable water pressure reducer with gauge

PRO TIP:  Water pressure around 40 PSI will give you good water flow for a shower and at the kitchen sink without causing damage to your RV.

8. inline water filter.

An inline water filter is inserted between your water source and your RV water tank or plumbing system.

The filter is essential for eliminating heavy metals, chlorine, odors, and other things you don’t want in your water.

There are many options for RV water filtering, including some pricier systems that new RVers may not be ready to invest in quite yet.

If you’re a beginner RVer, we like the water filter above from Clear2o that filters to one micron. Most of the popular inline filters only filter to around 20 microns.

• Reduces contaminants, bad taste, and odors
• Filters contaminants down to one micron
• No more Chlorine or sediment in your drinking water

The Clear2o will filter out much smaller sediment and is a great, affordable water filter to get you on the road with clean water in your tanks.

9. RV Fresh Water Hose

Drinking water hoses are made specifically to fill your RV water tank and connect to RV water sources. These water hoses are safe for carrying drinking and other water to your RV. They are BPA, phthalate, and lead-free.

• 25-feet, 5/8-inch diameter
• Super flexible design allows the hose to be easily stored over and over again
• Ideal for drinking water, BPA-free, lead-free, and phthalate-free

PRO TIP:  Choose a hose long enough to reach your RV water intake from the water source. For most RV rig sizes, a 20-foot hose is sufficient. We carry a small 10-foot hose for short connections and the rare occasion when the water hookup is inconveniently located.

10. 90-degree elbow.

Lastly, you’ll need a 90-degree elbow to connect to your water intake. The elbow will prevent a bend in your water hose that occurs when you join the water hose directly to your water intake.

• Solid brass 90-degree elbow
• Helps protect your hose by reducing stress and strain

The fitting will prevent wear and damage to your hose or water intake over time.

RV Power Accessories

You’ll need power in your camper when you’re on the road! Getting power to your RV safely and efficiently requires a few more pieces of gear.

Items #11 – 14 below are essentials related to getting power to your RV and using power inside your RV.

11. Surge Protector

When connecting your RV to power, you won’t always know the quality of the power source.

This must-have RV gadget is the best way to protect your rig and its electronics by preventing damage from electrical power surges.

There are many options when it comes to surge protectors . We previously used the exterior connected surge protector in our motorhome, but now we use a hardwired surge protector in our travel trailer. 

Both surge protectors are good options – the difference is between hardwiring the surge protector into your system or connecting it each time you plug into power.

PRO TIP: Consider the smaller hardwired surge protector if you have a small space to store your power accessories. If you choose the surge protector designed for exterior connection, make sure it has a lock!

12. power adapter (dog bone).

Whether connecting to power at a campground or a residential home, you might need a power adapter. Homes usually run on a 15 amp connection.

If you have a 30 amp RV, you’ll need a 30-15 amp adapter to connect to power.

You could find your campground spot doesn’t have the connection your RV requires. If you have a 50 amp RV, you might need to adapt to a 30 amp connection. 30 amp RVs might also need to adapt to a 50 amp.

• Available in multiple versions including 15/30, 30/50, 50/30, 15/50
• Heavy-duty, flexible, and durable construction

PRO TIP:  Dog bones are also handy in RV parks if you get an error on the pedestal for your power connection. You can quickly adapt up or down to use the other connection until someone can look at it or you solve the issue.

13. heavy-duty extension cord.

An extension cord will allow you to extend the reach of your power cable. It is necessary for moochdocking at a family or friend’s house or setting up your RV to plug into your home power grid.

• Heavy-duty 3-prong extension cord
• Water-resistent and highly visible

PRO TIP: We recommend purchasing a heavy-duty extension cord that is also water-resistant. These cords also come in handy for powering tools or other camping gear outdoors.

14. small inverter (optional).

Although not a true RV essential, a small inverter is a good investment if you plan to do any dry camping (camping without power hookups).

Many large inverters are a component of permanently installed off-grid systems with solar panels, but to get your RV on the road, let’s look at a small inverter that can run a fan or other electronic item with a low-power draw. This is a small investment that is ideal for RV living.

• Car charger inverter adapter (DC to AC power)
• Includes 4.2A dual USB charging ports and two AC outlets

A small inverter that plugs into a 12-volt port will help you during an overnight in a Walmart parking lot or another short stay without a power connection.

PRO TIP:  Choose a pure sine wave inverter if you plan to charge a laptop. Other inverters can permanently damage a computer.

Travel trailer leveling & securing.

Each time you park your RV, you must level it side to side and front to back. You’ll want to do this for comfort, and your RV fridge needs to be level to operate correctly.

Slideouts should also be level to evenly distribute the weight and avoid putting strain on specific components. With travel trailers (and other towable RVs), you also need to secure and stabilize the trailer.

Items #15 – 18 below are the best RV accessories for leveling, securing, and stabilizing your RV.

15. Trailer Wheel Chocks

These are must-haves for towable RVs (travel trailer or fifth-wheel). Wheel chocks keep your trailer tires secured when it’s not connected to the tow vehicle.

• Size of chocks: 8" x 4" x 6"
• All-weather design with a traction pad for securing a trailer in any conditions
• Built-in handle for easy maneuvering

We have both a plastic and rubber set of wheel chocks.

The rubber set of chocks above is more heavy-duty and superior to the plastic version, in my opinion. They give us a better sense of security, especially on  steeper inclines and in wet weather.

16. Leveling System

Is your RV level? You’ll need some form of a leveling system to confirm which way to raise or lower your rig when you set up camp.

The simplest way to level your camper is to walk inside and place a small level at different ends of the RV to see which ends and sides need to go up.

Some trailers and motorhomes will have level reading and even self-leveling built-in. If your RV doesn’t have one, a popular system to install is the LevelMatePro.

• Easy to use smartphone and Apple watch Bluetooth RV leveling tool
• Built to be installed in your RV
• Powered by batteries or can be connected to power depending on the version you purchase

The previous owners installed this system in our travel trailer. It works through an app on your phone to tell you how many inches you need to raise your camper and on which side.

Our opinion? It’s one of our favorite RV gadgets. It makes setting up your RV campsite more hassle-free and takes the guesswork out of leveling!

17. Anderson Levelers & Leveling Blocks

There are different RV leveler options for your camper. We have both Andersen levelers and Lynx Block levelers , so let’s look at the pros and cons of each.

Andersens are typically the easiest levelers to use. Just pull the camper onto the leveler until the RV reaches the desired height.

Lynx Blocks provide about a 1-inch lift each and require stacking the blocks to get the height you need.

As full-time RVers, we like to carry both types of levelers to have options and be prepared. Also, the space between our trailer tires isn’t wide enough to fit a second Andersen leveler, so be aware of this issue if your trailer tires are close together.

PRO TIP: You can also use leveling blocks under your jack pads when needed. We’ve also used these blocks to raise the truck for maintenance and increase the height when leveling the trailer front to back. If you’re a full-time RVer, we recommend  two packs  of ten blocks (especially if you boondock often).

18. camper stabilizing accessories & jack pads.

Travel trailers need jack pads for the stabilizers (such as the set below).

These pads will keep the stabilizers from sinking into the soft ground and provide an extra cushion on hard surfaces.

Although you can hand-crank your RV scissor jacks, a drill adapter , and a cordless drill will save you time and effort in lowering and raising your jacks.

Some trailers have built-in mechanics to move your jacks up and down, which will not require a drill or drill adapter.

ALTERNATIVE ITEM: A popular RV item on the market called SnapPads actually attaches to the stabilizer. This means you avoid unpacking the pads and inserting them under the stabilizers each time you camp. SnapPads are compatible with specific travel trailer and fifth-wheel stabilizers. You can check their site to see if they support your RV model.

Travel trailer tire pressure.

Before your first camping trip, you must understand how to monitor your RV tire pressure and your tow vehicle’s tire pressure, as this is crucial to safety when towing your camper.

Closely monitoring tire pressure will help you avoid a tire blowout and increase your tire life.

I always recommend checking your tires before moving your RV.

Items #19 and #20 below are essential tools to check and manage tire pressure.

19. Tire Pressure Gauge or TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System)

A tire pressure gauge or tire pressure monitoring system will allow you to quickly check your tire pressure on your RV from your campsite.

A tire pressure gauge is an easy, affordable way to check the pressure. However, a TPMS is a great way to monitor tire pressure and temperature before traveling and while on the road.

The TPMS requires a little more investment and installation but is worth the time and money to set up.

New RV owners who plan on covering many miles will save a lot of time and worry by upgrading to one of these systems.

PRO TIP:  For interior tires on dually trucks, you may need to install valve stem extenders to make checking and adjusting tire pressure easier. This was one of our first upgrades on our motorhome and later on our F350.

20. air compressor.

A portable air compressor adds a layer of convenience to maintaining your tire pressure in your towable RV or towing vehicle.

An air compressor is also a good idea for safety in your RV, especially in rural areas where it could be difficult to find one.

You can run an air compressor by connecting it to your vehicle battery or (sometimes) the house battery of your RV.

• Tire inflator with alligator clamps
• 12-volt, 120 PSI for up to 33-inch tires

PRO TIP: We recommend the above air compressor because it allows you to inflate to 120 PSI, making it suitable for trucks and large motorhomes.

Rv hitch for travel trailers.

Your RV hitch is one of the most important travel trailer accessories you’ll purchase for your RV.

21. Weight Distribution Hitch

A weight distribution hitch is the best option for towing a travel trailer safely and efficiently.

These hitches evenly distribute the trailer’s weight across the towing vehicle’s axles. This reduces the strain on the rear axle and improves stability on the road.

• 4-point sway control
• Weight gauge, 6 or 8-inch drop hitch, 2-inch shank
• 15,000 lbs. maximum GTW, 1,500 lbs. maximum tongue weight
• Includes 2-5/16" tow ball

Weight distribution hitches will improve the trailer’s handling and can even increase fuel efficiency. If you RV full-time or plan to put a lot of miles on your trailer, I highly recommend one of these hitches.

If you have a smaller travel trailer (under 5,000 lbs), you may be able to get away with a weight-carrying hitch. These are less expensive but are not as easy to tow.

RV Safety Accessories

When you’re on the road in your RV, you want to have a few important safety items on hand. It’s easy to let them slip your mind, but trust me, you’ll be thankful when you actually need them.

Items #22 – 25 below are some recommendations to ensure you and your family travel safely when you’re on the road.

22. Emergency Roadside Kit

This must-have RV accessory is crucial if you have a tire blowout, an issue with your tow vehicle, or any other problem while riding down the road on travel days. These kits often include:

• Jumper cables
• Safety triangles
• First aid kit
• Bungee cords
• 110 premium pieces and tote bag
• Includes heavy-duty jumper cables, heavy-duty tow straps, safety triangles, first aid, and more.

PRO TIP: You can put this kit together yourself or just purchase a couple of individual items you’re missing to create a kit. Remember to make sure your RV has a spare tire! 

23. fire extinguisher.

Most travel trailers will come with at least one fire extinguisher installed. However, we like to have another one (or two) in other locations in the trailer.

We purchased the below small fire extinguisher cans and have one easily accessible by the bed and an extra one in the kitchen.

The aerosol fire spray is ideal for small RVs since the cans are compact and store easily.

• Extinguishing aerosol spray for fires involving paper, fabric, wood, cooking oils, and electrical appliances
• Discharges 4 times longer than regular extinguishers
• Pack of two

PRO TIP: You might also want to invest in a “fireball” fire extinguisher that automatically deploys when a fire occurs.

24. trailer hitch lock.

This simple yet effective travel trailer device helps prevent unauthorized access and theft of your camper.

In addition to deterring thieves, a hitch lock provides peace of mind, especially when leaving your trailer unattended in a boondocking area.

It’s a relatively low-cost accessory that can save owners from the inconvenience and expense of dealing with a stolen or tampered trailer, making it a wise addition to your travel trailer setup .

• Universal fit trailer hitch lock
• Includes two keys and swiveling clip
• Easy to install

The above hitch lock is similar to ours and is made by the same trusted brand.

25. Emergency Propane Shut-Off

This safety RV gadget is installed on the propane tank between the tank connector and the propane line.

The device automatically cuts off the access to the propane tank in case of a major gas leak, minimizing the risk of fire or explosion and protecting both occupants and the trailer itself.

We consider this a valuable safety feature that ensures peace of mind during our travels and keeps our trailer and family safe.

• Automatic shutoff of propane in case of a major leak
• Compatible with RV ACME-type connections

These devices can be a bit pricey if you have multiple tanks. We have three propane tanks mounted on the front of our trailer, but we only connect two to our trailer at a time. We have two GasStop devices and rotate them between the tanks that are in use.

NOTE: This propane shut-off will only activate if there is a large leak. Small leaks won’t trigger the device.

Other travel trailer must-haves.

After years on the road, here are a few other camping accessories we consider must-haves for travel trailer owners. Although they aren’t crucial to getting on the road, we thought #26 and #27 below were worth including.

26. Insect Screens

Insect screens for your exterior vents, including the water heater, fridge, and furnace, will keep pesky bugs from making nests in these areas.

These are an affordable way to keep the bugs out, preventing any issues with your RV systems. They are also easy to install.

27. Screen Door Cross Bar

Most RVs have a screen door that locks into the main camper door. However, when the screen door is used separately, there’s no way to control the door from the inside.

A screen door cross bar solves this problem and is easy to install.

• Creates an easier exit and entry when using the screen door
• Durable bar with a secure grip
• Doubles as a towel drying rod

This is one of the first accessories we install when we purchase a new RV. It’s an affordable, easy upgrade!

BONUS:  This bar doubles as a drying bar for hanging kitchen or bath towels – definitely a plus for smaller campers.

More info on rving travel trailer must-haves.

While other RV accessories will make your life easier and more comfortable,  the essentials above are everything you’ll need to start RVing in your travel trailer.

Your Guide to Launching RV Life

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From leveling your RV to monitoring your tire pressure, we’ve covered all the tools and camper equipment you need to maintain your travel trailer and stay safe on the road.

Follow the guidelines above, and you’ll have your travel trailer outfitted and ready for travel quickly!

RELATED ARTICLES

• Travel Trailer Campsite Setup & Checklist
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• Practical Gifts for RV Owners

Need a full guide to outfit your RV?

For more on essential RV gear, including kitchenware, RV gadgets, and campsite setup items – view our complete guide.

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Lighter in weight and secured with a hitch to the frame of your tow vehicle.

Full-sized campers, requiring the “5th wheel” U-shaped hitch to tow.

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RV Essentials List for Newbies: The Gear You Never Want To Forget

Planning your first RV vacation? Great!

While preparing for an RV trip is fun, getting all your gear sorted out can be a bit overwhelming.

Creating a checklist of RV essentials is your starting point for an enjoyable, safe, and less stressful road trip.

Even though an RV gives you more room to store your gear, you don’t want to end up under-packing necessary items and overstuffing on the least important ones!

For your guide, here’s a comprehensive list of RV gear and packing tips for beginners that you never want to forget… ever.

Most likely, you will be sleeping in the comfort of your RV bedroom so shelter isn’t going to be a major concern.

However, it helps to bring some foldable chairs and a table that you can conveniently set up for outdoor viewing with your family.

It’s also a great idea to make your RV more ‘homey’ by adding lights, vintage rugs, a hammock, throws, pillows, and a few accessories.

If you’re planning for an extended trip, it makes sense to upgrade your RV mattress.

Storage is important too. You'll benefit from well-planned RV organizers, kitchen shelves, suction cups on doors, and space-saving containers.

Personal Items and Toiletries

The key to staying fresh and comfy throughout your outdoor adventures is to have enough personal care items and toiletries. A basic hygiene kit should contain the following items:

• Travel-size shampoo/conditioner
• Antibacterial soap (choose eco-friendly options)
• Alcohol and hand sanitizers
• Bug spray or mosquito repellent
• Toothbrush and toothpaste

As a general RV rule for beginners, each person should have their own toiletry or hygiene kit for easy access when they need it.

First Aid kit

Accidents and injuries can happen in the wild outdoors so make sure you have a first aid kit within your reach.

• Antiseptic wipes
• Antibacterial ointment for cuts, bruises, and wounds
• Butterfly bandages
• Non Stick sterile pads
• Pain relievers such as Ibuprofen
• Antihistamine
• Splinter tweezers
• Safety pins
• Medical adhesive tape
• Hydrogen peroxide

It’s also a great idea to bring a first aid manual so you’d know what to do in case an emergency happens. Your knowledge of basic first aid care goes a long way in keeping your family safe.

You don’t have to bring your entire wardrobe even though you have quite a big space in your RV camper. Unless you’re having a long trip (over one week), stick to a few staples.

Warm rainproof clothing

Pack insulated rainproof jackets and clothes that allow you to enjoy the outdoors without getting soaked when it rains. If going to colder regions, pack thin yet insulated jackets that keep you warm without the bulk.

Light, breathable shirts

Most RV adventures include moderate to intense physical activities, such as walking, hiking, and swimming. It’s best to bring clothes that allow you to move freely and easily. Choose moisture-wicking sports or workout shirts that keep you cool all day. You can just layer with a jacket in case it gets cold.

It’s best to wear casual sneakers that make walking comfortable . If you’re hiking, consider packing a pair of protective technical kicks that are easy on your feet. Depending on the activities you anticipate (and the weather), you can also stash a pair of boots, hiking sandals, or flats.

Socks and underwear

Go for breathable underwear and socks.

Pack a lightweight hat or visor since you’d be spending most of your time outdoors. If you’re going somewhere cold, you also need a beanie or a winter hat.

Note: Only pack essential clothes. As a rule of thumb, bring one top for each day, plus one extra. Then, only bring half the amount of pants since you can wear each pair for two different days.

RV Kitchen Items and Supplies List

Since most RVs are equipped with a full kitchen, you will need to pack some basic items so you can cook your meals, such as:

• Cooking pans
• A large pot
• Utensils/Cutlery
• Cups and mugs
• Cooking utensils (tongs, spatulas, big spoons, ladles, etc.)
• Dish towels
• Dish soap and sponge
• Food containers/zip lock bags

Water and Food

During your trip, you may have a hard time looking for restaurants or grocery stores to buy food and cooking supplies. That’s said, be sure to bring the following:

• Drinking water (bring at least one gallon per person, per day)
• Fruits and vegetables
• Salt, pepper, and spices
• Cooking oils
• Nuts, chips, granola, and easy-to-eat snacks
• Canned food
• Coffee, tea, and other beverages
• Pancake mix

Outdoor Gear

Your outdoor gear will generally depend on your planned activities or adventures .

However, you'll most likely do some scenic driving, swimming, fishing, or hiking. You may also decide to go on a picnic or simply stroll around the park.

Therefore, you want to have these items in your RV camper too:

• Camping chairs and tables
• Picnic blanket
• Food basket or cooler
• Water bottles
• Fishing rods and tackle
• Compass, maps
• Camping utensils

Miscellaneous

One of the perks of RVing is you can bring more than what you need. Therefore, feel free to add some more items to your list to make your trip a lot more comfortable, safer, and more convenient.

• Extra blankets
• Radio or Bluetooth speakers
• Board games
• Entertainment

RV Supplies

• Surge protector
• Extension cords
• Tire pressure gauge
• Motor oil and transmission fluid
• Emergency road kit
• Fire extinguisher
• Jumper cables
• Portable generator
• Electrical and duct tapes
• Cleaning supplies
• Laundry detergent
• Large zip lock bags for documents, such as IDs, registrations, driver's license, tickets, reservations, etc.

Final Words

This list might seem overwhelming at first but they are some of the most basic and essential items you need to have a comfortable and enjoyable trip.

However, remember that each person or family is different so feel free to add or remove items in this essentials list for an RV to suit your needs.

Enjoy your trip!

This article was written by Mariam Simmons, an outdoor and fashion enthusiast. https://www.alpineswiss.com/   

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5 amazing resource books for rvers, december 20, 2018, 5 rv tips and tricks to prepare for your first camping trip, august 5, 2021, how to plan the best rv road trip, april 16, 2021.

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Your Essential RV Camping Checklist 2023 (+Printable Checklist)

NOTE*** The content on this page may contain affiliate links, we may make a commission. And, as an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.   More information: disclosure page .

What do you need for a family RV camping trip?  Here is my best resource for RV packing list for the family. You are getting a sneak peek at my personal RV packing checklist for camping with babies, toddlers, and big kids. You will see a special section just for packing for the baby or toddler.

The first baby we took tent camping at a few weeks old.  Since then we have been tent camping and backpacking with infants and toddlers but now with #5 and #6 we have been enjoying RV camping.  

See our sanity-saving tips for RV camping with a toddler and packing checklist specifically for RV camping with a toddler.

I love to tent camp but RV camping with young children has allowed us to get out and camp more and extend the season.  Plus, we have been able to take very long, 3 week and month road trips, that would have never worked in a tent or car camping.

Our first RV experience was renting a camper. We rented from Canadream on a half-price special. Otherwise, that would have been quite expensive.

You have some great options for renting campers. One option to find the best and most flexible RV rental rates (and lots of insider tips) is Outdoorsy.

A basic Google Doc for you to download a packing list that you can edit is at the end of this article or subscribe to get full access to discounts, checklists, and travel planners . If you want a checklist specific for babies and toddlers, you can read more and download that checklist at our article RV Packing Checklist for Babies and Toddlers

You can get a printable checklist when you sign up for our trip planning kit (it is prettier than the Google file) or download your own copy in a Google file. Click this link for the Google file , choose to make your own copy (on the dropdown on the left), and save to your own Google drive.

I hope you find this checklist helpful for answering all your questions about – What Should I pack in my RV checklist?

Family RV Camping Trip Packing Checklist

Whether you have been tent camping, or are new to camping altogether, RV camping requires some equipment specific to an RV.   

Get this 19-page Travel Planner that I personally use for our family trips

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RV Equipment  and Necessities

• Weight distribution bar
• Leveling blocks
• Wheel chocks
• Tire pressure gauge
• Fuel for the generator 
• Surge Protectors
• Electrical adapters
• Water pressure regulator
• Water purifier
• Drinking water hose
• Sewer hoses and gloves
• Battery jumper cables
• Roadside emergency kit with flares or triangles 
• Small tool kit with screwdrivers, hammer, wrenches
• Fire extinguisher
• Hydraulic or scissor jack

A travel trailer and fifth wheel must be towed safely with the correct hitch.  A motorhome is one unit and does not include a hitch – so you can cross that off your list along with the weight distribution bar.

RV Kitchen Checklist

In an RV you will have the luxury of cooking as you do at home.  Take advantage of this by having a well-stocked kitchen, ready to make, fun meals for the whole family.   When we are boondocking, I use the built-in propane cooktop and oven.  When we are camping at a campground, I pull out all the electric appliances and use the power from the campground.  So I have multiple options when cooking. 

• Lid- One size fits all
• Microwavable bowl
• Pressure cooker (Instapot)
• Electric griddle
• Coffee Pot 
• Water bottles
• Paper plates
• Ziplock bags

Cleaning Supplies List for RV

The best and worst thing about an RV is cleaning.  In this small space, you can clean your entire house in just minutes but the mess will also happen in just minutes.  So you can feel like you spend your entire day cleaning small messes.  Be prepared with some cleaning supplies on hand to make the job easier and faster. 

• Paper towels
• Rubber gloves
• Magic Erasers
• Fabric/upholstery cleaner
• Carpet cleaner
• Toilet brush
• All-purpose cleaner
• Dilute bleach
• Toilet bowl drop-ins

RV Bedroom and Sleeping Checklist

Sleeping in an RV can be as much as camping or home as you would like it to be. You can have the comfort of sleeping at home with sheets and blankets, or the kids can still have a campout and sleeping bags.  

In cold season camping, the bottom of the beds and floor can get cold. So we use wool blankets under the sheets or electric blankets to keep warm. 

• Waterproof mattress pad
• Pillowcases
• Sleeping bags
• Wool blankets (for under or on top)
• Electric blanket
• Air mattress
• Lovey or stuffed animal for the kids
• Window coverings
• Space heater (safe and electric)

RV Bathroom Checklist

I think the most wonderful thing about RV camping is an indoor bathroom.  Especially with kids …. In the middle of the night.  You do need to have some RV bathroom essentials and keep up with the cleanliness in this tiny space though.     This is our RV bathroom packing checklist: 

• RV toilet paper
• RV toilet drop-ins
• Toothbrushes
• Small paper cups
• Shampoo & Conditioner
• Quick-dry towels
• Brush and comb
• Laundry soap
• Dirty clothes bag
• First aid kit

Other RV Camping Essentials

• Shade tent 
• Bug screen tent
• Portable table 
• Camp chairs

Hobbies and Camping Activities

RV camping is about having fun and exploring the area around you.  This may mean riding bikes around the campground, swimming in a lake, or hanging out by the campfire.  This is list is likely more comprehensive than what you will need on every trip but it is a start. 

Some of the athletic gear and bikes go on a platform on the back of our travel trailer.  We also have a specific bike rack that we squeeze a couple of extra bikes onto. 

• Glow sticks
• Collapsible bucket
• Butterfly net
• Sports balls – Soccer, football
• Drawing and art supplies
• Playing cards
• bag for wet suits
• life jackets

RV First Aid Kit Checklist

Our first aid kit has grown over the years from some basic anti-biotic cream and bandages to include more things for emergencies.  With 6 kids, we have had our share of bumps, bruises, accidents, and the occasional stitches.  Here is our personal checklist for our RV first aid kit. 

• Triple Antibiotic
• Anti-itch cream or hydrocortisone cream
• Absorbent compress dressings
• Individual eye drops 
• Thermometer
• Baby fever medication
• Fever and cold medication
• Pain reliever
• Allergy pills
• Children’s motion sickness pills
• Prescription medications
• Nausea and diarrhea remedies
• Vitamin and supplements
• Coconut oil

Camping Clothes Checklist

• Pants (Hiking pants)
• Short sleeve shirts
• Long sleeve shirts
• sweatshirts 

Camping Outerwear for the Family 

• Rain Jacket and Pants
• Fleece Jacket
• Snow Jacket and Pants
• Hiking Boots
• Hand Warmers

 Baby and Toddler Camping Gear Checklist

Traveling with a baby or toddler in tow requires some extra gear.  When we travel in the RV we take along some of the comforts of home.  Taking care of a baby or toddler in the camper is much easier when you have the basics on hand.  Your baby or toddler will be more comfortable and happier also.  See our article here on the blog for a complete checklist for RV camping with a baby or toddler.

• Diapers or pull-ups
• Diaper cream
• Bottles and cleaning supplies
• Nursing supplies (breastfeeding)
• Fleece sleep sack
• Warm hat for sleeping
• Baby sleeping bag
• Portable bassinet or sleep tent
• Small booster seat (at the dinette)
• Baby monitor
• Portable High chair

RV Dog Essentials Checklist

A baby and dogs are a big reason that we transferred from tent camping to road tripping in an RV.  The dogs loved tent camping but in order to do long trips with dogs, we chose our travel trailer.  

• Collar and tags
• Dog towels (rags)
• Blankets or pet bed
• Portable pen
• Medications

Rounding up the Family RV Camping Packing Checklist

Get the ultimate guide to planning an RV Vacation and the Family RV Packing Checklist (and more RV hacks) by subscribing to our newsletter and get the Family RV Discounts and Packing Checklist

Oh, and one more thing – I have the RV packing checklist set for 3 kids – but you already know I have more than that. So just make more rows or print more copies for more kids.

If you prefer, you can use this live camping checklist by Outdoorsy and click the boxes.

Our first time traveling as a family in an RV was when we flew to Toronto Canada and rented an RV.  The time we had planned to visit downtown Toronto turned into an unforgettable adventure to the surrounding Provential Parks, Niagra Falls, and upstate New York.    

No moving in and out of hotel rooms, traveling with our bathroom and bedroom in tow.  

We all loved the whole time that we came home and started dreaming about an RV.

Then, we went tent camping with 4 kids (including a baby and toddler) in the rain and I was totally sold on an RV. (Psst – you read our article here for 2 7 more pros and cons of RV travel.

We have some great options for renting campers. One option to find the best and most flexible RV rental rates (and lots of insider tips) is through RVShare . Another option in the sharing space which is the largest RV rental marketplace in the US and Canada is Outdoorsy.

We now take short and long road trips in our travel trailers.  Every time we leave, I use this RV camping trip checklist to pack the RV for our trip.

Grab a copy of the checklist and start packing everything you need right into the camper. If you are renting a camper, use this packing list to ask the company what they supply for your trip and what you will need to bring.

I hope this checklist helps you prepare for your next trip too. 

Hi, I’m Shauna – Welcome to Family Travel Fever.  We are a large family, that was bitten by the travel bug!  I take the kids by myself because I don’t mind flying or driving solo with my crew to discover the coolest places.

Sign up for our email list for my best travel tips plus get the family travel planner free. 

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Your article Awesome Thanks for this information, very informative as well as Modern.

This is a great checklist for RV camping! I’m looking forward to using it this year!

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The ultimate guide to RV accessories and essentials

Rv essentials.

h ere might be no better way to see the United States than by traveling in a recreational vehicle, a compact home on wheels that allows you to set up camp just about anywhere. But before you embark on a cross-country road trip or extended nature getaway, there are some RV essentials and accessories that you should have in your inventory. In order to make the most out of your RV life, make sure to stock up on the basics as well as the trappings and trimmings that will make the most of your adventure.

Shop this article:  Progressive Industries 30 Amp Portable RV Smart Surge Protector ,  WEN 56203i Super Quiet 2000-Watt Portable Inverter Generator  and  Renogy 100 Watts 12 Volts Monocrystalline Solar Starter Kit

What you need for your RV

Whether you're road-tripping, boondocking or camping at a full-hookup campsite, your RV needs a source of power and a means of managing it. Most RVs have one or more batteries, including a 12-volt direct current battery (for powering lights, a water pump and other basics) and a 120-volt alternating current battery (for appliances and conveniences like a refrigerator, microwave or TV). These batteries alone won't provide you with endless power, but they will recharge whenever hooked up to an external electrical grid or generator.

If your RV is connected to a "shore power" source, like a campground grid, you'll need a surge protector to prevent an errant electricity spike from damaging your batteries and devices. Depending on the size of your RV, or "rig," it will come equipped with either a 30 amp or 50 amp connection, so make sure you find the appropriate surge protector. Other power accessories that should be on your RV essentials checklist include external generators and solar panels.

Here are a few options for your power supply needs:

Progressive Industries 30 Amp Portable RV Smart Surge Protector

Progressive Industries offers a full line of surge protectors and electricity management systems for every RV need, offering both portable and hardwired solutions. This 30 amp surge protector is well-suited for most small rigs, but make sure you find the correct match for your RV.

Sold by Amazon

Renogy 100 Watts 12 Volts Monocrystalline Solar Starter Kit

If you're planning on spending most of your time off the grid, a solar kit can keep your batteries charged and power your basic needs. Keep in mind that you'll need a power inverter to convert your solar power into a 120-volt AC hub before running small appliances. Also, solar alone can't power air conditioning, so make sure to account for your heat factor.

WEN 56203i Super Quiet 2000-Watt Portable Inverter Generator

If you absolutely need an external power source, consider this WEN portable generator with automatic fuel shutoff and an eco-mode feature. It produces clean energy while limiting total harmonic distortion to a minimum, making it safe for charging laptops, tablets and smartphones.

Clean water and sewage management

Clean water hose

While you're traveling in your RV, you must make sure you have a clean water hose for refilling your clean water tank or hooking up to an external water source, not to mention a filter for safe drinking water . Also, adjustable water pressure will protect your plumbing and fixtures from damage. A sewer hose support for your sewage line will also go a long way toward preserving your overall plumbing situation. If you don't have the luxury of an onboard bathroom, a portable toilet is a convenient replacement.

Other setup essentials

Emergency Kit

One of the most important things to include on your adventure is an all-in-one emergency kit for any roadside emergencies or minor injuries - a spare first aid kit never hurts, as well. Leveling blocks are necessary for preventing a runaway rig, and you should keep some battery-powered camping lanterns handy so you're never left out in the dark.

Comfort and living essentials

You can't properly enjoy your RV if you don't have some crucial trappings of comfort throughout, making it truly feel like a home on wheels. Once you measure your bed space, find a comfortable, durable and properly fit mattress and a set of breathable sheets that won't keep you too warm in hot climates. In addition to sleeping pillows , if you have a couch or other group seating, consider decorating with some throw pillows.

RV toilet paper

A lot of the touches that make your RV feel like home include everyday trappings like drapes , towels, cookware and dishes , not to mention all the cleaning supplies you usually keep in your home. If you're lucky enough to have a fully functioning bathroom, you might want to install a water-saving showerhead made for RVs. Also, make sure to pick up some RV toilet paper in order to prevent clogging and other potentially messy headaches.

Camping appliances

Power strips

Once you have your power strips plugged into your 120-volt power source, you can start using kitchen conveniences that require electricity. Nowadays, many RVs come fully equipped with a fridge and microwave , but there are some other electric conveniences that will enhance your camping, boondocking or traveling experience.

Nespresso Vertuo Next Deluxe

Coffee makers are definitely an RV camping essential, depending upon your limited counter space and storage. If you like espresso or flavored coffee, a Nespresso Vertuo Next Deluxe takes up very little counter space, or you can stick with a simple drip brewer , like this one from Cuisinart . 

Portable grill

Another great small appliance for your RV is an Instant Pot - an all-in-one pressure cooker , slow cooker , rice maker and more. This is one of the most versatile tools for an RV kitchen, with enough options to keep you from cooking the same meal every time. Since you're going to be enjoying the outdoors, a portable grill makes a great substitute for campfire cooking. When the cooking gets you too hot, make sure you've packed a solid compact fan .

Extra comforts and conveniences

Once you have all the necessities, then it's time to make sure you have some more comfort and convenience items. Camping chairs , a hammock and maybe a small table or two are all things that take your outdoor relaxation to another level. If you need extra space to ice down your beverages, consider an electric portable fridge/freezer to keep the cold ones icy cold.

Pop-up outdoor canopy

With all your free time in the wilderness - or the KOA - consider some new hobbies like birdwatching with a set of Nikon binoculars . Another fun hobby is droning, which involves operating a small camera-enabled drone for photography and videography. Either way, make sure to soak in as much nature as possible. To avoid the dangerous UV rays, you may want to invest in a pop-up outdoor canopy - not to mention  sunscreen .

Small Camper TV

For inside the RV, there are luxuries you can add to feel more like home. If you have to catch the big game, cable news or just YouTube for the kids, you can always mount a small TV with a Fire Stick in your rig. If your RV community has wireless internet, a travel router is a great way to enhance what is likely a weak signal.

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