RV Must-Haves: RV Gear That Should Be in Every Rig

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Whether you’re a full-time RVer or a weekend warrior, having the right gear can make all the difference in your journey.

After starting with ZERO experience and going straight into full-time RV living, it is safe to say that I have ran to RV stores in a panic several times.

Therefore, I am making this comprehensive list of the RV must-haves that should be in every single rig.

From safety essentials to utilities, this list will ensure your RV is equipped for any adventure.

Let’s dive into the RV must-haves that every RV owner should consider!

Note: this list isn’t going to be about comfort or all the things that have made RV-living easier. These are just the bare bone essentials.

Safety First: Protecting You and Your Rig

• Emergency Road Kit: Includes heavy-duty tools, jumper cables, and other essentials to get you through a roadside breakdown safely.
• Fire Extinguisher: An absolute must for quickly handling any fire emergency inside or around your RV. I would also recommend a fire blanket just in case.
• First Aid Kit: Stay prepared for minor injuries and accidents by keeping a well-stocked first aid kit on board.
• Flashlight & Headlamp: Whether for night-time walks or unexpected power outages, a good flashlight is a must-have. I prefer a headlamp because it is hand-free for me to work on the rig at night if needed.
• Keyless Doorlock: Up your security with a keypad doorlock, allowing you to lock and unlock your RV without fumbling for keys. It scared me to know that RV keys come in duplicate and I only got locked out of my RV once before investing in this.
• Fan: On warm days or in stuffy spaces, a portable fan keeps things cool and comfortable. I’ve had my RV reach 90°F and this saved me!
• Breakaway Cable: If you are towing a trailer, a breakaway cable is essential for safety on the road. When ours randomly snapped, we upgraded and haven’t had an issue since.
• Lube Plate: This is another one that is only for fifth wheels. Lube places help reduce friction and increase the longevity of the hitch.
• RV GPS: If you have a larger vehicle that might be too tall, wide, or heavy for certain routes, this is a great investment. You can put the specifications of your rig and get tailored directions for your RV.

Bonus Idea: I use this service called RV Life Pro. On this app, I plan out my itineraries and use their RV GPS. This is a game changer for RVers and I cannot recommend it enough!

Parking & Leveling: Setting Up Camp Like a Pro

• Leveling Blocks: Uneven campsites are common, but with leveling blocks, you can ensure your RV stays steady and balanced.
• Leveler: A precise leveler makes it easy to ensure your RV is on solid footing for a comfortable stay.
• Wheel Chocks: Keep your RV from rolling away by securing it in place at all times.
• Furrion Backup Camera: Improve your parking game with a backup camera that gives you a clear view of what’s behind your RV. This is also nice for driving and lane changes.
• Walkie Talkies: A game changer for backing RVs, setting up, and more in remote places. Our rig is just to big to shout at each other constantly while setting up.

Electricity: I’ve Got the Power

• Surge Protector: Prevent electrical damage to your RV’s sensitive equipment with a surge protector that absorbs unexpected voltage spikes.
• Electrical Adapters: Campsites don’t always have the exact plug you need, but a set of electrical adapters will keep you connected no matter where you are. *The type you get will depend on your RV. For example, we often use our 30 amp to 50 amp at campsites with only 30 amp capacity.
• Extension Cords: Sometimes those power hookups are just out of reach, and a heavy-duty extension cord ensures you stay connected. You might need 30 amp or 50 amp depending on your RV.
• Solar Powered Cell Phone Bank: In case of an emergency or just to stay connected, a solar-powered phone bank keeps your devices charged when off the grid. This is great when you lose power!
• Generator: When boondocking or in areas with no hookups, a generator is your best friend for keeping the power flowing. Stay safe and know how to use it properly!

Sewer & Water: Keep the Utilities Flowing

• Sewer Hoses: A reliable sewer hose and accessories are essential for efficient and clean wastewater management. You can also get support for it to help with drainage of the “stinky slinky”.
• Toilet Paper: RV-safe toilet paper is crucial to avoid clogs and keep your plumbing systems running smoothly. Personally, I hate this stuff. So, I use regular toilet paper and have a small trash can to dispose of it in.
• Black Tank Cleaner: Oh, the dreaded black tank! Keep it clean or it will build up…literally.
• Summer Water Hose & Heated Water Hoses: Water hoses are obviously an RV essential, but don’t forget a heated one if temperatures drop.
• Water Filter: Clean water is critical, and an RV water filter ensures you always have safe drinking water on the road. We also run it through a Brita in the fridge cause I’m a water snob.
• Pressure Regulators: Pressure regulators protect your RV’s plumbing system by keeping the water pressure at a safe level.

Maintenance & Repairs: Be Ready for the Unexpected

• Tool Kit: From minor fixes to more extensive repairs, a tool kit is your best bet for handling any problem that comes up. RVs break….All. The. Time. Be prepared!
• Tire Pressure Gauge: Check your tires regularly to avoid blowouts or uneven wear using a quality tire pressure gauge. We opted for one where we could continuously monitor it on the road, but you can get a cheap one too.
• Duct Tape & Electrical Tape: Quick fixes are inevitable, and these tapes can hold things together until you get a more permanent solution.
• Fuses: Blown fuses are a common issue, and having a variety of replacements on hand will keep your electrical systems running smoothly.
• Leak Protection: Prevent costly damage to your RV’s interior with leak protection devices like sealant and detection alarms. Again, imagine me running around with a leak in the roof while it’s pouring rain and I had nothing to fix it…

Storage & Organization: Keeping Your RV Clutter-Free

• Command Hooks/Strips: These adhesive hooks maximize storage space without damaging your RV walls.
• Hook & Loop Straps: I have seen far too many cases of cabinets and fridges busting open while traveling. When traveling, we always secure anything that can come open.
• Velcro: Organize cords, secure items, or make DIY fixes with versatile Velcro strips.
• Hose Bags: Store and separate your hoses (freshwater, sewer, etc.) to keep things clean and organized.
• Folding Plastic Stool: A handy stool makes it easy to reach those high shelves or tackle quick outdoor maintenance tasks. Keep in mind, we are mother and daughter and don’t have the luxury of tall heights.
• Bungee Cords: These are great for securing loose items inside or outside your RV and have multiple emergency uses.
• Notebook: Jot down reminders, camping tips, and checklists so nothing gets left behind. I have heard this from many weekend warriors that they write down everything they need for the next trip. This is a RV must-have so you can tailor it to you!

In the Kitchen: Gourmet Cooking on the Road

• InstaPot, Air Fryer, or Portable Grill: Elevate your RV cooking with space-saving appliances that make meal prep a breeze. I would recommend at least one of these. Not gonna sugarcoat it, the air fryer has changed my RVing life.
• Dishes/Silverware: Durable, lightweight dish sets designed for RV life make mealtime easy, without taking up too much storage space and adding too much weight.
• Camping Pots & Pan Set: RV space can be limited, so having one camping set of pots and pans can help save space.
• Kitchen Utensils Set: Kitchen essentials are still essential in an RV, although you might want to pick and choose what you will actually use before you hit the road.
• Tupperware: Collapsible food storage units perfect for saving leftovers and eating it the next day.

Cleanliness: Creating a Clean Home on Wheels

• Outdoor Rug: Keeps dirt and debris out of your RV while adding a welcoming outdoor space to your campsite.
• Mini Electric Blower: From blowing the dirt off of the stairs to blowing out the slides, this portable blower is used every single time we pack up.
• Vacuum Cleaner: A compact vacuum helps you easily keep your RV tidy and free from tracked-in dirt. We have 2 cats and a dog, so we chose one that was pet specific.
• Swiffer Mop: There is no way around it, RVs get dirty! Smaller Swiffer mops are one of the RV must-haves for keeping those floors clean.
• Dehumidifier: Keep moisture at bay and prevent mold or mildew in humid climates by running a compact dehumidifier. This was a lifesaver when I lived in my RV in six feet of snow!
• Bug Zapper: Nature comes with bugs, so keeping a bug zapper on hand will protect you from unwanted pests.

Final Word on These RV Must-Haves

Equipping your RV with these must-haves will set you up for stress-free, comfortable, and safe adventures.

Whether you’re heading out on a short weekend trip or living on the road full-time, these RV must-haves ensure you’re prepared for whatever comes your way.

You can grab all these products easily from Amazon, with many available through Prime for quick delivery.

For more adventure gear, make sure to check out my Amazon Storefront for more recommendations.

If you are into RV adventuring, make sure to get in touch on social media! I would love to cheer you on as you live adventurously!

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