Alrighty, road-warriors. All warriors need their swords and shields. Their offense and defense. Thus, I’ve developed a list of the BEST RV Must-Haves for any RV adventurer.
It’s no different for road-warriors of the RVing arts! There is gear that you need. There is gear that you’ll probably need. There is gear that it’s much nicer to have than not have.
And after my many tens of thousands of kilometers vanning around, I’ve put together the BEST and most comprehensive list of RV must-haves on the internet.
Offense, defense, and RV-friendly toilet paper: it’s all in here. What’s my pick of the #1 most essential RV must-have?
The EVERLIT Roadside Assistance kit. (And probably combo-ed with a first aid kit from M2 Basics too.) Between these two essentials, there is very little the Gods of the Road can throw at you that you won’t be prepared for.
But that’s only two of twenty-five! Don’t stop there. Keep reading and make sure you’re fully prepared for the trials and tribulations of the road ahead, whether it’s your first trip or fiftieth.
You might not feel like you need everything in this guide. But I guarantee…
The time will come when you’re damn happy you packed it
Ready for the breakdown of bonafide bangers? This assortment of gear puts the “home” in “motorhome”.
From outdoor living to absolute safety necessities for your rig, don’t hit the road without these 25 winners.
RV Essentials for All Campers’ Checklists
Every RV must have these essentials!
1. RV Wheel Chocks
Wheel chocks are a crucial accessory for RV life. You might think you don’t need them… But then, one day you’ll return to the RV park from a nice nature trail stroll only to discover your parked-up motorhome or travel trailer has rolled into a nearby rivulet!
Safety is the name of the game with wheel chocks. And this two-pack wheel chocks from MAXXHAUL plays a mean game. Compact, durable, and built with extra traction for all conditions, these wheel chocks should rightfully cost a lot more than they do.
The only real downside to the wheel chocks is that they do have that annoying, lingering manufacturer’s odor. But after a few adventures out into the sticks, that’ll pass.
Besides, bad smells come and go but good value is forever! I personally am a massive fan of just how compact these chocks are without sacrificing their usability. It’s a very small price of entry for a lot of peace of mind and a 100% must-have for ALL RVers.
2. RV Leveling Blocks / Jack Pads
Nobody likes sleeping on a 45° angle. Not even your RV’s gadgets!
Uneven ground beneath your park-up messes up a lot of RV appliances’ functioning. (Not to mention just making life inside pretty uncomfortable.) Enter Camco Leveling Blocks.
Featuring an interlocking nested design, these levelers are easy to set up and even easier to pack away! They aren’t overly unwieldy either. Each block measures out at 8.5″ x 8.5″ x 1″ and is lightweight for easy use too.
They aren’t a perfect solution. On the wrong surfaces, you might catch a bit of sag in the leveler leaving your RV feeling a tad bouncy.
Still, that’s a helluva lot better than the DIY options you might be considering! Wood rots and rocks are heavy. Meanwhile, these levelers link together like Lego blocks and are just as light. A little sagging is a small price to pay for the convenience and durability of these blocks.
Camco keeps your RV on the level. 😉
3. Drinking Water Safe Hose
Garden hoses just don’t cut it in the RV life! Instead, try this NSF-61-certified TastePURE Water Hose (also from Camco). Built for life on the road, it’s free from phthalates, lead, and BPA for better flavor and safer drinking water.
More than that, for winter wanderers, it’s insulated! Don’t like your drinking water frozen huh? This hose can withstand extended periods of freezing temperatures, plus the heavy-duty, nickel-plated fittings resist corrosion for extra peace of mind.
This is a fairly mid-range RV water hose. You can get a lot more heavy-duty, and you can get a lot cheaper too. Whether this is the right hose really just comes down to your individual needs. (That said, however, you really can’t go wrong with Camco-brand products – they’re so good they made our list of the best RV water hoses multiple times.)
And, I mean, realistically, it’s a hose. It gets drinking water from taps to your mouth, and that’s about as essential as it comes. Don’t die out there! Stay hydrated.
4. Adapters
Camco delivers again with this shockingly good deal. For any RVers who prefer the comfort of a powered RV park over the middle of nowhere, this adapter is a total must-have.
Featuring 50-amp male and 30-amp female heads, this 125-volt adapter is ready for action! It’s very heavy-duty, Flame retardant, weather resistant, and with a flexi-style dogbone design, it’s an adapter built to last for many successful adventures.
My only gripe is that it’s a short cable. There are plenty of workarounds for that, but I would have liked the option for longer models.
But, really, it’s a well-priced electrical unit from a very solid outdoor recreation brand. Anything with the Camco seal of approval is a good buy, and the Camco PowerGrip is no different!
5. RV Extension Cords
Camco again? Told ya! It’s another doozy of a deal though.
The Extension PowerGrip Cord is an all-terrain, all-season power-extending solution! It might even just be the answer to the problem of the Camco Adapter’s short king status.
Boasting heavy-duty copper wire construction, the PowerGrip is known for top-notch conductivity with a rugged edge. The PVC coating has a similar level of heat, weather, and flame resistance as its little adapter cousin.
Are there any downsides? Well, this extension cord is admittedly heavy as high heavens. But that’s just the cost you pay for top-notch durability!
I’d much rather have a robust and heavy duty power cord to keep my glorious air conditioner running than a flimsy and unreliable one. This power cord is an absolute lifesaver when a campground hookup is just out of reach. (Or, maybe, when you need to siphon a bit of power away from a Starbucks, you boondocker you.)
6. EMS RV Surge Protector
Nothing ruins an RV trip faster than electrical issues. That’s why having our rigs equipped with reliable RV surge protectors is paramount. With a hardwired and portable surge protectors available, Progressive Industries is here to protect you from such shenanigans.
Well-built and designed to endure the rigors of RV life and the sometimes unstable RV park electricity, the SSP-50X is a reliable companion for your adventures. This 50-amp surge protector offers five-mode protection and is equipped for spikes up to 45,000A. Talk about peace of mind!
The LED indicators also provide easy diagnostic information. This helps you identify and protect against a number of electrical problems, including…
- Over/under voltage
- Open ground/neutral
- Reverse polarity
- Surge failure
As well as providing A/C frequency protection that is critical to protecting delicate RV electronics.
My personal gripe here is less with the product and more with the policy. Progressive Industries offers a very lacking warranty that replaces per part and leaves repairs up to the owner. So if you do have any issues, it’ll be a headache to fix.
That said, technical faults seem to be the exception rather than the rule. For 99% of customers, all they’re getting is robust protection against electrical issues. Hardwired or portable, protect yo’ rig!
7. Roadside Emergency Kit
Right. So this and the next entry on the list are absolutely indispensable with no arguments allowed. Beat the breakdowns with a roadside emergency kit.
This Roadside Assistance Kit from EVERLIT is the best darn passenger princess you will ever have. For any and all mechanical emergencies on the road, this comprehensive kit includes…
- A digital air compressor
- Jumper cables
- A tow strap
- A hand-cranked flashlight
- And honestly a buttload more
It’s like having your own truck stop or RVing superhero in your rig!
Is there any downside to this roadside Batman utility belt? Yeah, they skimped a bit on the quality of the tow strap. You might want to consider upgrading that individual piece of gear.
Otherwise, it’s a fully-fledged roadside emergency pack complete with a first aid kit. And for an extremely reasonable price too. Buy it once, shove it in your RV’s storage, and hope you never need it.
You’ll be thanking me when you do.
8. First Aid Kit
Speaking of first aid kits… The one in EVERLIT’s roadside kit isn’t half bad, but every motorhome needs a dedicated first aid kit.
This professional-grade emergency kit contains 40 unique bits of medical gear with 300 pieces in total. If having 300 Spartans tending your wounds wasn’t sufficient, the actual coverage of this first aid kit is excellent. It includes…
- Heaps of bandages
- Tape and other dressing needs
- Stuff for sterilization
- Numerous other supplies (e.g. a CPR mask and tourniquets)
- And it’s even got a carabiner! (I’m a big fan of carabiners.)
Best of all, this kit is compact and portable. It’s perfect for stowing away in your RV, ready for any unexpected bumps, cuts, or scrapes.
I’ve heard a very specific few complaints like “too many bandaids” or “no fire extinguisher”. Honestly, though, just buy a fire extinguisher. It’s not a complete first aid kit, but it provides pretty much anything you’ll need to stay safe in the RVlife while costing less than a tank of gas.
Worst case scenario? You can always drive to the hospital instead.
9. Tool Kit
Every RVer needs a reliable set of tools. The KingTool 325-Piece General Tool Kit fits the bill perfectly! Though 325 pieces might seem like a lot, I’ll be damned if this ain’t value!
This comprehensive kit includes a variety of tools suitable for basically any odd job on the road. Better yet, the storage is supreme. All the tools come housed in a well-organized storage case that even includes a little drawer.
The tools themselves are impressive too. Crafted from high-quality steel and finished in heat-treated chrome, they’re incredibly durable.
Maybe 325 pieces is too much for you? In that case, KingTool offers smaller sets for cheaper as well.
So really, there’s no drawback. And you do NEED tools on the road – no arguments. Kinda like insurance, you’d rather not need them, but when you do, you really do.
10. Spare Tire Cover
Well, I hope I don’t need to explain the necessity of a spare tire to you! Here’s the thing, though… A lot of the time, a spare tire sits in storage for ages. It doesn’t matter if you’re rocking a top-rated set of RV tires; by the time you unload your long-stored spare, it’s more worn than expected.
So protect your spare tire from the ravages of the elements and time! This Universal Tire Cover from AmFor does the job perfectly. It’s a weatherproof cover that fits a variety of vehicles with wheel diameters of 25″-27″. That means most RVs are A-okay (but check your specs first).
The downside is purely cosmetic and purely personal too. I know this is meant to blend in with white vehicles, but white is a horrible color for spare tire covers. They’ll be caked in dirt and not nearly as white before the first road trip is done.
But AmFor has other covers too! There’s even one with the American flag and another with an American flag skull.
What? Did you think I was gonna make a snarky and off-color joke? Naaaaa. As we say Down Under…
Not my monkeys.
11. RV Jack Stabilizers
Mix these stabilizers with a leveling system and you’re in for some rock-solid sleeps! These super easy-to-use blocks eliminate nearly all movement in your parked RV or trailer. No sways, no rocks, no rolls – just easy listening FM on a bedrock foundation.
ANDERSEN has put a lot of thought into the design of these stabilizers too. A big boon is the built-in magnets that instantly attach them to the jack, eliminating the need for niggly adjustments. Plus, if you value multi-functionality (which I do!), they double as footstools and seats.
They’re pretty expensive for what looks like a heavy-duty bucket. Especially so considering that big RVs will probably need two or three of these two-packs. But hey, they get the job done and done well!
Alternatively, you could try some DIY solutions or live the wobbly life. But when that doesn’t work out for you, these are the RV stabilizers I’d recommend.
12. RV Sewer Hose Kit
Ahh, greywater. And blackwater! Dealing with waste is certainly one of the less glamorous parts of RV life.
So make it a lot less excruciating with a solid sewer hose kit. This particular kit – the Dominator Sewer Hose Kit from Valterra – makes it a breeze. The kit includes…
- Two collapsible 10-foot sewer hoses
- Rotating fittings
- A 90-degree sewer adapter
- Four drip caps
And the sewer hoses have a collapsible design for easy storage too!
The only annoying part of these sewer hoses is cleaning. I mean, cleaning sewage is annoying at the best of times. But due to the hoses’ collapsible nature, you have to pull them out to max extension for easy rinsing after use.
But, I mean, they’re well-priced and more than reliable. Convenient cleaning is good, however, a reliable sewer hose that isn’t going to break and spew last night’s dinner everywhere is better! For hassle-free waste management on the road, go with the Valterra sewer hose.
13. RV Roof Fan
Moving along to ventilation… Oh man, you need it! I have done way too many early morning departures with a condensed interior windshield and 20% vision.
Maxx Air’s 10-Speed RV Vent Fan delivers a solution to this infuriating problem. This powerful fan features a 10-speed intake and exhaust. Better yet, it fits all standard 14″ x 14″ roof openings. Plus there’s even a remote control for an added layer of convenience.
The fan is noted for being quiet, which is terrific for light sleepers. The caveat there is that it’s also noted for not pushing air as forcefully as some users would like. That’s the cost-benefit-analysis, I suppose
But it does the job well and for a very reasonable price. I’ve seen lower-quality RV ventilation solutions clock in at a lot more than this. And most good 12-volt A/C units for RVs require a visit to your local loan shark!
For a convenient and affordable vent system in your motorhome, Maxx Air has you sleeping easy.
14. RV-Friendly Toilet Paper
Believe it or not, you NEED RV-friendly toilet paper. Anything else (except a bum gun) and you’re risking a lot of sewage headaches.
Camco’s 1-Ply Toilet Tissue is the answer! Designed specifically for camper, trailer, and marine sanitation systems, it’s sewer-safe, septic-safe, and biodegradable. Each pack contains four rolls, with 280 sheets per roll, which maths out as barely more than regular toilet paper without the impending plumbing disaster.
What’s the downside? I mean, it’s one-ply toilet paper! It would probably be more enjoyable to wipe your bum with a white spare tire cover.
But honestly, that’s what you get for the price. There is two-ply RV-safe toilet paper available. However, it also tends to be a lot more expensive. For the cheap and sustainable solution, you’re gonna have to suck it up.
(Or get a bum gun.)
15. Water Filter System
Take no risks! Clean drinking water is a non-negotiable on the road. If strategically sourcing your water on the road still feels sketchy, try Clearsource’s Ultra Filter System
This is no ordinary water filter, boasting a 0.2-micron filter, this water filter system effectively captures viruses, bacteria, and cysts. It even gets the real nasty stuff, such as E. coli and Giardia. It’s specifically designed for RVs and is a lot easier to install than you’re probably thinking too.
The water filtration process does change the taste slightly. That’s worth considering. But so’s Giardia. Take it from personal experience: you do NOT want Giardia on the road.
Don’t be a silly-billy (like me). Prioritize safe, clean water in your travels. The Clearsource Ultra water filter is a vital piece of equipment and the only water filter you need for any complete RV setup.
16. Space Heater
I’ve already written an entire article on what the best space heaters for RVing are and whether you can use them safely (which I recommend!). But to summarize: yes, they’re safe to use and 100% worth it for cold-weather camping.
Lasko’s Ceramic Tower Heater is an excellent choice. It balances its initial cost, heat output, and overall energy consumption very skillfully for a solid final product. Moreover, this heater features…
- An adjustable thermostat
- Timer settings
- Remote control functions
- Plus oscillation options to maximize your climate control capabilities
There’s no real downside to this heater. It’s not an RV-specific heater if that’s a concern. However, it’s still more than equipped for the job.
And otherwise, it’s efficient and, best of all, warm. If you have the electrical system to run it, there’s little point in not having this on hand in your RV. Once that unexpected cold snap comes in, you’ll be very glad you do.
Must-Have Items For an Easier RV Life
What? Living in a souped-up glamping mobile in idyllic locations wasn’t easy enough living for you?
Mmm, instant gratification. Let’s maximize the RV Life!
17. Garbage Bag Holders
Leave no trace, motorhomies! And also, protect your trash bags from pesky critters. (That’s another error I’ve made before!)
To help in the war against campsite litterbugs is this Collapsible Garbage Bag Holder from Thetford. This handy holder can accommodate up to 13 gallons of trash. Or, more specifically, 13-gallon trash bags.
It’s also made from weather-resistant and durable plastic. And because of that plastic, it’s also lightweight and easy to set up!
However (and also because of that plastic), it’s also a little bit on the flimsy side in strong gusts. I’d advise weighing it down or supporting it unless you want to be on campsite cleanup duty.
But despite this minor issue, its convenience and portability make it a must-have for any RVer. Trash management is important when road-tripping and camping out. Let’s leave a spot as beautiful as it was when we arrived. 🙂
18. Reusable Storage Bags
Keeping in theme with the tree-hugging tirades, leave single-use plastic in the dust! Instead, go for ol’ reliable Tupperware or try these reusable silicone storage bags instead.
Durable, leak-proof, and double-zippered, these bags are perfect as an eco-friendly (and ultimately cheaper) reusable storage solution on the road. They’re made from thick, high-quality silicone that’s designed to last. Moreover, it’s BPA-free 100% food-grade PEVA.
Are they as convenient as plastic wrap? Probably not. But neither is using a bin over straight-up littering. That’s how morality works!
At the end of the day, if we’re out there in the great outdoors, we have a duty of care to keep it clean. And even if you’re buying it as a simple but highly effective gift for an RV owner, these reusable silicone food bags are a no-brainer. Nobody’s saying these little eco-friendly choices are going to save the world…
But at least they’re not making it any worse.
19. Tablecloth
It’s an outdoor tablecloth – what more needs to be said! Bring a touch of home life to family camping meals. (And make cleanup easier while you’re at it.)
This particular tablecloth from JAWO is made of outdoor-ready polyester. Waterproof and stain-resistant, it’s both durable and very easy to clean. Basically, it’s perfect for families and kids with grubby mits and poor hand-eye coordination!
There are even color choices available. Though, oddly, the stone variant receives complaints that it’s more green than stone. Keep that in mind if you really like stone-colored niceties.
But that aside, it’s very cheap and very handy. In my opinion, meals on the road are more enjoyable when you put effort into the presentation. So cultivate some family mealtime vibes with this tablecloth!
20. Outdoor RV TV Antenna
Right, back on the technicals. I don’t judge anyone for watching TV while camping. I personally have been known to binge The Office in some very grand locations.
If some screentime is a priority in your RV life, CXYHMG’s 720° Outdoor RV Antenna makes it possible! This compact antenna can be mounted virtually anywhere. Installation is very straightforward, and the bi-directional reception nodes amplify your signal strength reliably too.
Despite its advertisements, it’s NOT a 720° antenna. It’s 360°. (Because that’s the maximum amount of degrees.) But, to be fair, that feels like nitpicking with a capital ‘N’.
It’s reliable, it’s robust, and it’s a reasonable price. If you need signal reception on the go, this is a fantastic outdoor RV antenna for the job.
21. 12V Powered Cooler
I daresay this is a great 12V refrigeration option for all RVers! Casual campers will love the balanced size-versus-performance and 12V power source. Meanwhile, people in beefier van-sions will love this as a backup cooler and outdoor drink fridge when they’re languishing at camp.
With a 53-quart capacity, the BougeRV Portable Refrigerator is energy-efficient and effective! It quickly reaches and maintains its set temperature. It’s also smooth operating, running as quietly as the average house fridge.
The one gripe to mention is very specific. After doing some research, it seems the cooler has some compatibility issues specifically with Bluetti power stations. Not game-breaking ones, mind you, but worth considering if you use a Bluetti.
Otherwise, it’s a rather reasonably priced budget cooler! Given its more budget 12-volt-only status, the BougeRV is more limited than other top-shelf portable fridge-freezer units. But it’s a lot better than nothing too!
Take it from me: I’ve done a lot of vanlife without a cooler… Once I got on-board refrigeration, I never looked back. Fresh bevvies are without a doubt an RV must-have!
Outdoor RV Accessories for Better Camping
Spruce up your campsite’s outdoor space as much as your RV’s interior! Comfortable camping is all about space-making.
22. RV Outdoor Camping Grill
And nothing says “space creation” like a good old cook-off! For the days that you’d rather have a properly grilled steak over something whipped up in your RV’s kitchen, we have Flame King’s Portable Flat Top Griddle.
This griller’s best friend boasts 267 square inches of cooking area with a Teflon-coated griddle plate with an adjustable flame controller. The grill itself is well-constructed and highly portable with three cooking modes.
- Free-standing
- Tabletop
- Mounted, e.g. to the RV’s tailgate (mount sold separately)
It’s compatible with both propane canisters and full-size tanks for even more versatility too. It’s a heavy unit, so take that into consideration before purchasing. I’m also not a massive fan of using Teflon over cast iron.
But for outdoor grilling in the outdoor life, this is a steal. No outdoor cooking experience is perfect. Yet, somehow, the Flame King comes pretty darn close!
23. Outdoor Rug and Doormat
Ok, don’t knock an outdoor RV space with floor mats until you’ve tried it. There is no better way to feel homey when away from home!
This option from RVGUARD is both waterproof AND reversible. It’s also got four corner loops for staking the mat down making it perfect for camping and RV trips. It even folds into a compact size for easy storage.
It is more of a plastic texture than fabric. I reckon that’s to be expected with an outdoor camp mat, but keep it in mind if you have a preference.
But really, it’s a practical addition to your outdoor gear. It’s even better if you’ve found the perfect state to settle down and live full-time in your RV.
Arguably, it’s not quite as must-have for RVing gear as, say, a first aid kit. But what can I say? I’m a sucker for space creation. 😉
24. Camp Chair
Coleman! Coleman is fantastic – zero complaints here.
Camp chairs are a no-brainer in the RV life. And if you’re in the market for one, a Coleman is equally a no-brainer.
This chair features a fully cushioned seat and back for maximum comfort. Also, it’s got one of those neat sidearm cooler bags attached. Plus, like all good camp chairs, it’s lightweight and collapsible with a carry bag for hassle-free transport.
This is definitely a mid-range camp chair. They can be a lot more budget than this. However, they can also get A LOT fancier.
But if mid-range is your happy place, then you’ll be happy with this chair! And as far as brands go, you can trust Coleman even more than Camco. No complaints – easy buy.
25. Rechargeable Flashlight (or Headlamp)
Lighting is crucial on the road. Sure, RVs have plenty of lights attached. But I really can’t overstate how much you need lighting solutions on the road, whether it’s for emergencies or convenience. Anything that lights your way is an absolutely necessary gadget for RVing.
This option from BUYSIGHT is an awesome choice too! First up, it’s rechargeable, which means there is no spare battery management required.
Meanwhile, as far as its efficacy goes, how does 120000 lumens sound!? Between that, its long-lasting 9000mAh battery, and its IPX6 waterproof design, there’s no reason to ever stub your toe in the dark again. It even sits flat and doubles as a camping lantern, which I’m a massive fan of!
There is one design quirk with this torch that I don’t like. Sadly, it doesn’t have a low-battery, pre-no-battery light dimmer. Instead, the torch goes instantly from fully functional to dead as a doorknob when the battery runs out, which might result in some unfortunate late-night horror flick vibes.
Of course, that can be avoided by not doing silly horror flick things (like not charging your emergency devices!). This small quirk aside, the BUYSIGHT is a powerful and reliable portable lighting solution to add to your already ample lighting arsenal.
BUYSIGHT is the last and brightest of our RV must-haves!
Our Verdict: What RV Must-Haves Should You Never Skip?
25 RV must-haves complete! That means I must have finished the article. (Teehee.)
I’m sure in there you spotted a few of your own RVing essentials. More than likely, you spotted a few things you hadn’t thought of. Whether you’re a full-time RV’er, bought a new RV, or just purchased your first RV, this list has something for everyone.
Then don’t delay: buy it and go adventuring! Time waits for no road-warrior. Heck, even you full-time RV’rs probably found something they need!
What’s my personal #1 RV must-have? Well, it’s kinda boring compared to a portable griddle, but it’s still the EVERLIT Roadside Assistance Kit. What can I say? I like to be prepared for any and all curveballs (plus you can use these tools to help out fellow travelers too!)
But not all RV must-haves need to be so obvious. If you saw anything in here that will enhance your road trips, seriously… Just buy it!
Again, save yourself the hassle of the big box stores like Camping World. Instead, use our handy dandy links above!
Life is short. Some of the most important lessons you’ll learn about RVing are immaterial and only learned through experience. Not all essential things in life are practical items.
Sometimes, it’s just about the joy something gives you. After all joy is the most essential must-have for your RV trip of all.
Well, that and toilet paper.
