byJakeJohnson

RV Essentials

RVing is a great way to see the country and spend time with family and friends. But, in order to have a great RVing experience, you need to have the essential RV accessories. In this article, we will cover the must-have RV accessories that will make your RVing experience more enjoyable. While this list is not comprehensive, it should give you an idea of some of the accessories you should consider before you even start the RV-purchasing process, as leaving some of these off of your shopping list might give you some unnecessary headaches and frustrations.

Water hoses and filters

One of the most important things you need to think about when RV camping is your water supply. You will need to have a water hose and filter to fill up your freshwater tank and to connect to campground water sources.

There are a few different types of water hoses available, so it is important to choose one that is best suited for your needs. If you plan on using your RV in cold weather, then you will need a hose that is rated for freezing temperatures (we even have a heated one). If you want a hose that is easy to store, then you should consider one that is collapsible or that has coils.

Water filters are also an important consideration. There are a few different types of water filters available, so it is important again to choose one that is best suited for your needs. If you have allergies or sensitivities, then you will want a filter that removes more contaminants from the water. If you are just looking for basic protection from bacteria and sediment, then a simple carbon filter will suffice. One quick trick that you may find helpful – it is important to keep your RV freshwater hose connections away from the ground or other dirt/debris – we find that connecting the two ends of the hose to each other before storing makes a safe, clean, convenient way to transport our hose.

Sewer hoses and accessories

If you want to dump your RV’s tanks (and you should), you’re going to need a sewer hose. We’ve been through several of them, so we know there are some options that fair worse than others. Most RVs come with a basic sewer hose, but there are a few things you should know about choosing and using one. First, make sure you get a sewer hose that is long enough to reach from your RV’s dump port to the sewer connection at the campground (we ended up buying 2 of them, providing both a spare hose and an extension, but storage space is limited so consider your choice here carefully depending on your needs). Second, make sure the sewer hose is durable and has good fittings. A leaky or poorly fitting sewer hose is not only messy, it can also be dangerous. We found that the basic black one that came with our RV didn’t hold up in the winter, where freezing temperature eventually caused frozen water in the hose to wear down the plastic and spring leaks.

There are a few other things you might need as well, like adapters and extensions (the above kit comes with some of these) – we strongly recommend flexible rubber funnel connectors, (which sit like a rubber seal between the hose and the campground pipe). The rubber ones work best, as during freezing or changing temperatures, the hard-plastic ones can get difficult to remove as they expand with the weather. We also like to use a clear elbow connection at the end of our sewer line (which connects to the previously-mentioned funnel connector), as opaque ones prevent you from seeing the water as it travel into the sewer pipe (This is important if you want to ensure your water is flowing correctly, the hose is not clogged, and to know when the water has stopped flowing and you can move on). And don’t forget about camping gloves and diggers (for when you need to unclog the hose), and ALWAYS use disposable gloves when handling any of the hoses, lines, connectors/adaptors, and even the expanding support trelices (another thing to consider, as many campgrounds do not permit the sewer hose to touch the ground). Below, we’ve highlighted some of the best sewer hoses and accessories on the market so you can make an informed decision about what to take on your next RV trip.

While there are many types, also consider a black tank treatment chemical, such as Happy Campers, to ensure your bio-waste is appropriately dissolved and scent-free. Septifix is a great, RV-safe septic treatment that can help you with this process.

Electrical adapters

When considering what accessories to take on your RV adventure, don’t forget the electrical adapters! Electrical adapters are devices that allow you to plug your RV into a variety of different types of outlets, including those found at homes, campgrounds, and gas stations.

RVs typically have a 50-amp electrical system, which means that they require a 50-amp electrical hookup in order to work properly. However, many homes and campgrounds only have 30-amp hookups available. That’s where an electrical adapter comes in handy!

There are a few different types of electrical adapters, including:

• 30-amp to 50-amp adapter: This type of adapter allows you to plug your RV into a 30-amp outlet using a 50-amp cord.
• 50-amp to 30-amp adapter: This type of adapter allows you to plug your RV into a 50-amp outlet using a 30-amp cord. (We did not need this with our RV, as we only have the 50-amp cord)
• 50-amp to 15/20-amp adapter: This type of adapter allows you to plug your RV into a 15 or 20-amp outlet using a 50-amp cord. This is useful for RVs that have special equipment that requires 15 or 20 amps of power, such as air conditioners or coffee makers. Consider if this will be necessary for your particular model of RV.
• 50-amp to 120v: This type of adapter allows you to plug your RV into a 120v standard house outlet (at least, 120v is standard in the United States). While not all power in your RV will run on such a connection, it will at least allow you to power your essentials.

While not a must, we also recommend you consider an 50-amp surge protector. These are pricey, but they protect your RVs electrical components from damage in the event of an electrical surge on the campground’s circuit.

Electrical adapters are an essential accessory for any RVer, so be sure to add them to your list before hitting the road!

Leveling blocks

As you’ve read until now, there are many important accessories to consider for RV travelling. Leveling blocks are one of those essential items. They’re perfect for keeping your RV level, which is important for a number of reasons.

First, it helps to keep your RV in good condition by preventing premature wear and tear. Second, it makes it more comfortable to live in your RV by ensuring that things don’t shift around when you move from one side to the other. And finally, it can help to improve the efficiency of your RV’s systems by keeping them level.

There are a few different types of leveling blocks available on the market, so it’s important to choose the right ones for your needs. Foam blocks are among the lightest and most affordable options, but they can compress over time. Rubber blocks are a bit heavier and more expensive, but they offer a longer lifespan. And finally, plastic blocks are perhaps the most durable option, but they can be more difficult to maneuver – Ours are of this last variety, and they fit together like childrens building blocks to ensure a right-height adjustment every time.

Whichever type of block you choose, be sure to buy enough to level your RV effectively. A general rule of thumb is to buy one block for every four inches of height difference that you need to level out. So, if your RV is six inches off-level, you would need at least four blocks to level it properly.

Wheel chocks

Wheel chocks are an important part of owning an RV. They are used to keep your RV from rolling when you are parked on an incline. Most RVs come with two wheel chocks that should be placed under the wheels on the downhill side of the RV. You may also want to purchase additional wheel chocks to use when parking on a very steep hill or in high winds.

If you’re concerned about maintenance necessities of your RV (or the truck pulling it) rather than just the daily-living items, check out the manuals here for more information. You can also learn more about reconditioning your RV or automobile’s batteries here.

General RV Exterior

Some more essential RV accessories include awnings, steps, and hitches. You’ll also want to consider adding some style to your RV with decals and different lighting options.

Awnings

Many RVs come with their own built-in, but awnings are one of the best RV accessories because they provide shade and protection from the sun and rain. There are many different types of awnings available, so it’s important to choose the right one for your needs.

The most popular type of awning is the pop-up awning, which is easy to set up and take down. Pop-up awnings are available in a variety of sizes and colors, and they can be mounted on the side or the roof of your RV. If you’re looking for something more permanent, you can also opt for a full-size awning, which is mounted on the side of your RV and extends all the way to the ground. Full-size awnings are great for RVs with Slideouts, because they provide complete coverage when extended.

There are also a variety of specialized awnings available, such as bike racks, solar panels, and even pet covers. No matter what your needs are, there’s an RV awning that’s perfect for you.

Roof maintenance

Assuming you have a Standard RV roof (EPDM), there are a few key things you can do to maintain and prolong the life of it. These points might seem obvious, but they’re worth mentioning. First, keep things clean— leaves, pine needles and other organic matter can cause problems if left to decompose on your roof. Second, every now and then, walk around your RV and check for any cracked caulking or sealant. You should also inspect your vent covers and make sure they’re in good shape, with no cracks or holes. Also, these towels work great for cleaning off your solar panel, windows, or side-panels!

Storage solutions

One of the best things you can do to organize your RV exterior is to invest in some good storage solutions. One option is to get a storage box or two that you can put your chairs, grill, and other outdoor items in when you’re not using them. This will keep them from taking up space on your RV’s interior or getting lost in the great outdoors.

Another great storage solution for the exterior of your RV is a Double Hitch Carrier. This carrier attaches to the back of your RV and gives you extra space for things like bikes, coolers, and lawn chairs. You can also find hitch carriers that come with storage boxes built-in, so you can kill two birds with one stone.

If you’re hoping to keep your RV organized while you’re on the road, it’s also a good idea to invest in some kind of system for storing your loose items. A good option is to get a few small storage bins and label them with where they go in your RV. For example, one bin could be for all of your RV’s manuals and documents, another could be for maps and guidebooks, and another could be for any electronics chargers and adapters. By having a place for everything, you can make sure that everything has its own spot and that nothing gets lost or misplaced.

Towing accessories

There are a lot of different towing accessories that can make your RVing life a lot easier. If you are going to do any towing, you need to make sure that you have the proper equipment.

One of the most important things that you need to tow your RV is a good set of hitch receiver adapters. These will allow you to connect your RV to your tow vehicle. There are a variety of different adapters available, so you will need to find the ones that work best for your particular RV and tow vehicle combination.

Another important item that you will need is a good set of RV mirrors. These mirrors will help you see around your RV when you are driving, and they can also be used for safety when you are backing up. You should get a set of mirrors that mount on the outside of your RV, as well as ones that mount on the inside. This way, you can always see what is going on behind you.

If you plan on doing any serious towing, then you will also need to invest in a good set of brakes for your RV. There are a variety of different braking systems available, so you will need to find the ones that work best for your particular RV and tow vehicle combination. You should also get yourself a brake controller, so that you can easily control the amount of braking power that is applied to your RV.

Towing accessories are an important part of being able to safely tow your RV. If you do not have the proper equipment, then it could be very dangerous for both you and your family.

Security devices

Security devices are a great way to protect your RV and its contents. They can deter thieves and help you track down your RV if it’s stolen. Here are some of the best RV security devices on the market:

• GPS tracker: A GPS tracker is a great way to keep track of your RV’s location. You can install it yourself or have it professionally installed.
• Security cameras: Security cameras can be a great way to deter thieves and keep an eye on your RV. You can install them yourself or have them professionally installed.
• Motion sensor lights: Motion sensor lights can deter thieves and help you find your RV in the dark. You can install them yourself or have them professionally installed.
• Alarm system: An alarm system can deter thieves and help you find your RV if it’s stolen. You can install it yourself or have it professionally installed.

You can learn more about keeping you and your family safe, at home or in the RV, here.

Now You Will Look Like an RV Pro With These RV Accessories…

I hope this has given you a good foundation of potential accessories you may (or may not) have already considered for your RV travels. Many of these will keep you comfortable and safe, and can be worth every penny. If you enjoyed this content, please subscribe at the top of the page by entering your email in the alotted text box and you can get notified any time we post new articles!

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